Innocent Mischief

Summer Card Camp- Week 3

2011-07-15T11:22:00.000-07:00

This color combination is actually the same color theme as the main living space of my house. Kitchen, living and dining-coordinate near perfectly.

Kristina's Video/Lesson this week featured Typography. She has me completely addicted to alpha stickers...If there are meetings for that somewhere you should really let me know!

Something was a missing so added Glossy accents to the 4 and the circle border to balance out with the shiney chipboard letters.

Summer Card Camp- Week 2

2011-07-06T22:41:00.001-07:00

Have I mentioned I'm loving this card camp?? I'm trying to get more into scrapbooking this month, I have lots of ideas... I hope to put them in action! Dog sitting Lola (bff's boston terror, I mean terrier. hehe, just kidding she's an angel!) Plan to make a page or 2 of her, want to get a shot of my "hubby" Laughing because he has the best laugh ever! On to the eye candy...
Here's the color combo this week.

Summer Card Camp- Week 1

2011-07-01T15:58:00.001-07:00

Sooooooo loving this summer card camp!

You know that never ending craft room project???

2011-07-01T12:48:00.000-07:00

When I began blogging I was trying to reorganize my craft space. Since then I have moved not once, but twice. That alone has it's perks and downfalls.
Perks of packing up and moving your craft room numerous times. Finding things you forgot you had. Getting rid of things you haven't used. Getting up close and personal with all the schtuff you've hoarded for years! Why did I buy that? What was I thinking? OMG! Shiney object!!!!
Downfall. Packing. Moving. Carrying. Hauling...And not being able to craft again until you can find it all.
I was in my apartment 6+ months and never finished setting up the new room. In a house now, new room was set up my 2nd week here. I am loving it!
Here's the "before". Just a boring empty corner in our unfinished basement.

After 2 days of independant hammering, sorting, assembling and being distracted by several shiney or sparkly objects...

Details

I'm Still Alive, I Swear!

2011-04-25T11:27:00.000-07:00

In the last 6 months I have broken up with my boyfriend of 4 years, moved to a new city, got promoted at work, edited my cirlce of friends and family, and as you know, lost my beloved Duster. Lots of changes... I will be the first to admit that I didn't deal with all of them to the best of my ability. I certainly didn't feel up to about it.
It's Spring and I feel it in my soul not just the weather. I am "back to me" again. I have every intention of blogging more. I want to include cooking, decorating, designing and of course my crafting. So stay tuned... It's going to be a bumpy ride.
Now that I've adjusted to the single life and regaining my independance- I am looking forward to the next phase and put this one behind me.
With that said, I am moving again. With this move I am purging everything that is not near and dear to me. I am starting over and I'm so excited. For years I have collected midcentury modern furniture and accessories. It's all going. I wont have room in the new place and I'd like to fill my space with the new me. Don't worry, I'm still going to have a craft "corner". Not the master suite but it will do.
I will be posting the furnishings online. As I go through my craft room and find things to let go of, I will post them here as well as online. Wish me luck on my journey. Oh and I'll post some pics of a few things I've done since posting last.

Thank you cards inspried by K Werner. I would post more but my other computer crashed with all my photos. Be back soon...I hope.

Missing Duster...

2010-12-30T08:53:00.000-08:00

At 20 years old I was finally beginning to feel settled enough to take on the responsibility of another living being. My father shows, breeds and trains dogs so I put the call in to him for a puppy. "Daddy...?" (said in my best princess gets what she wants tone) "I want a puppy!".

Dad,"Well, I'm gonna need more to go on than that."

Me,"I want a Pomeranian. A small, female, blond, red or tan- show quality puppy. Someday I want her to have puppies."

At the time he was engaged to a Pomeranian breeder so I figured this would be an easy task. I was told that he'd see what he could do. Shortly after that my brother called to say he found a pom in need of rescue. I'm not sure if it was the truth or guilt trip but he told me that his original owner passed away and he went to a not so nice home. He was Male, all black but greying in the muzzle, large for his breed, 7 years old, not even close to show standards and he was fixed. I told my brother no. I wanted to hold out for my perfect dog.
Being the Daddy's girl that I am... when he described the same dog and the situation he was in I caved. He sent me his picture and hesitant but he needed a good home. Heck, at least he got the breed right!

Weeks later I flew home to surprise my family for Christmas and pick up my fur baby. I crept into the kennel entrance waiting for the right moment to surprise my brother when these 2 little hairballs came running and spinning around me. One was my brother's new dog, Contessa. Contessa was only 4 months old, blond, picture of show quality and my brother had the breeding rights. But I didn't care...

Duster knew immediately who I was to him. He just started jumping up and down in front of me and circling my feet. He didn't even care that Contessa has just stolen his favorite toy. Took some effort to catch him because he's not a fan of being picked up, but as soon as I had him in my arms he was all kisses and just very happy to be there. That was 9 years ago this week.

Duster turned 16 in November. His vision and hearing started to evade him last year. now he was running into things and falling down. The recent moved proved too much for my little guy. Hardest thing I've EVER had to do. I didn't want to see him suffer or get hurt worse. His quality of life just wasn't the same. Shane and I took him and and on December 9Th he went quietly in my hands.

If you have never put an animal down let me tell you it wasn't what I thought. The vet was amazing and explained everything. Honestly, I just wasn't' ready for it. It was so quick. She said it wouldn't take long but it was instant. Looking back now I am relieved it wasn't a drawn out process. It truly was peaceful...until the embarrassing display of hysterics that followed on my part.

I am still tearing up as I write this but I am in a much better place. I still forget that I have to pick up the dropped food now because he's not at my feet waiting for it. Occasionally I go looking for him when he doesn't meet me at the door after work. I dream of him frequently and he's young and happy again.

Help Me be a Better Blogger.

2010-12-29T06:50:00.000-08:00

Once again I have been missing in action for quite some time. I have been making a lot of big changes in my life. I am now a single gal living on my own. It's exciting because it's really the first time I'm living for just me. Things are finally settling down for me a bit more and I'm slowly finding my way back into the craft room and out on the social scene. I am still teaching classes on a regular basis at A Scrap In Time in Hastings, MN.
Here is where I need your help... I'm looking to be challenged and inspired in the new year. If you have any requests for blog topics, tutorials, pictures or what ever you can think of please let me know. I am holding off on design team participation for now and challenges are time sensitive. Suggestions are not limited to crafting. I love photography, cooking, decorating and dabble in drawing. I am hoping that my newly unfettered status will bring me some fun stories. Hoping to find a little innocent mischief to share with you all.

Teaching Classes at my local store...

2010-09-18T20:51:00.000-07:00

Just a quick pop in to update with my latest venture. I'm teaching Copic and other Card classes at my local Scrapbooking store, A Scrap In Time.

I {heart} Copics Fabulous Friday Challenge

2010-07-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

This image is just begging to be paper pieced but my printer is psychotic and it's unpredictable when it will work. I was so happy to get it to print out and still had fun coloring. Used my Copic Air Brush System for the sky. Glad I had the refill for BG72! I'm all out of ribbon though. Time for another trip to I {heart} Papers! I have a full cart I just need to hit send...Can't wait to get to do more shopping once I get teaching more. Eek! I'm excited. Back to work for me. :)

New find! Kenny K digi's!

2010-07-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

***
This is totally my style! I personally think this sassy lady looks like my friend Jen but she didn't agree, either way she's fun. I did this one for their first Challenge, Pastels.

I love this Piggy Tales paper and just thought the colors were fun. These girls are so much fun to color.

Notice how her jeans actually have a denim texture? Thats my little secret ;)

Finally Some Progress in my "Studio"

2010-07-12T18:01:00.000-07:00

***

I sat down to make some cards and prep for some classes but I couldn't even find my desk let alone my paper cutter. I made some coffee and got right to work.

I had the pegboard prepped but I haven't been using it because I wanted to paint it. Heck with that, I'm now choosing function over form for the time being. I hauled it out of the closet and now it's just laying on the ledge. I can't believe the difference!
Just about everything else has been IKEA, Thrift store/garage sale or coupon purchases.

The white surface is a table thing from IKEA that is meant to go over a bed. I got it from the scratch/dent for cheap. It works to give me an L shaped area. Basic papers, box of cards I've made and my Carosel...Oh and my Laptop.

Copics (I need MORE!) are stored in a Close To My Heart organizer so that I can take them with me where ever I go. They like to travel.

This stand is from the Goodwill. $5 or so. Holds my Cuttlebug, Decrative Papers, scanner, and boxes for flowers, rhinestones and so on.

This metal bin is meant to hold legal size files. Works perfect with the paper holders. I group my papers by brand/theme. If I'm stuck I just grab a random holder and get to work on what ever I grabbed.
Still sooooo much work to be done but it feels great to have gotten this much done. I have several cards I would like to get done tonight yet so I'm off. I hope to share more on Friday! Thanks for checking in to see what I'm up to.

Tinkering All Day...

2010-07-06T19:58:00.000-07:00

Made a quick trip my my LSS and was asked to start teaching there in a couple weeks. Came home to put some things together and was just inspired/motivated so I got right to work...

Happy Canada Day and 4th of July!

2010-07-02T22:47:00.001-07:00

It's a bitter sweet weekend for me. I miss my family so much and wish I could be home with them in Canada for the Holiday weekend... If I were there I would miss my friends here during 4th of July. Just happy to have people to miss.
I had a moment of self realization the other night... I'm hooked on easel cards. Here is the card I made for the I {heart} Copics Challenge. RED WHITE AND BLUE!

I found this We R Memory Keepers paper and it called to me. I just loved the vintage feel, what better to marry it with Shooter from The Greeting Farm? I finally got to use my Big Scalloped Circles LG that I got from I {heart} Papers. I have a shopping cart full... I'm sure I'll hit "place order" tomorrow. I {stick} Papers, Ribbon.... and tons of clearanced papers. I hope I get some more time to craft tomorrow. I've been busy with other projects lately including some pretty sassy etched shot glasses for a friends birthday.

OOH! I am going to be experimenting with a new technique soon... if it works then I wont hesitate in sharing it! Off to find some bold stamps... Good night/day all!

I {heart} Copics Friday Challenge(s)

2010-06-25T13:53:00.000-07:00

A little catch up again. Blogging was so much easier when my I had access from my work. Now it's blocked and I can't read any sort of blog nor post my own. I'm at home and catching up on my blogs.
It is Friday though and you know what that means! Fabulous Friday Challenge for the I {heart} Copics Group at PCP. This week is a recipe Challenge: 3 Embellishments, 2 Patterened Papers and 1 Chicken Girl Design image.

I used Cosmo Cricket "Mr. Campy".
The bear is from Chicken Girl Designs "Into The Forest". I masked his arm and stamped the flower and paper pieced the scarf.
My embellishments were the addition of googly eyes, brads and ribbon.

I wanted to keep it simple. Being a girl with mostly male friends- I find it challenging to come up with masculine cards. Less is more.

It's about time! Playing some serious catch up!

2010-06-06T18:11:00.000-07:00

I'm so sorry that i haven't been around at all lately. To be honest there have been many ups and downs the last month or so. Thanks to some amazing friends, I'm finally begining to feel like myself again. I have been dabbling in my craft room here and there but really only taking care of design team assignments. It was nice to focus on something. For that reason I would like to thank I{heart}Papers and I{heart}Copics for getting me in my craft room. I would love to catch up now and show my projects off.

Injured Officers

2010-04-27T07:31:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago we had a tough night at work. Thankfully I was at home sleeping and didn't have to go through it with my partners. Our K9 Deputies take their squad cars home because it's sort of like the K9's house. On his way to work he swerved to miss a cat and ended up rolling his squad. Both have been checked out and are ok. Sore but only minor injuries. He's got a pretty good sense of humor so everyone has been giving him a hard time about swerving for the cat. (in most cases you are better off hitting the animal than trying to avoid it, break but don't swerve is the advice I've been given). I made this card for him using a Victoria Case digi. I couldn't find a cat digi that worked so I drew my own. I didn't want it to be the main focus of the card so I snuck it on the back.

An hour after that deputy airing that he rolled his squad and he was injured, they sent officers to a Domestic call. I don't wish to comment much on this incident so I will simply link the news story. This is the Card I made for our Sergeant. He his home recovering with his family. His partners and dispatchers are all ok. There is no best case scenerio in these types of calls and everyone is affected. All I can do is thank him for keeping our city, and my officers safe. Here is the card I made for him.

Due to the stress of these incidents I neglected to mention that the first week of April was National Telecommunications week. A week devoted to recognizing Public Safety/911 Dispatchers all over the United States. It is never too late to send a thank you card to your local dispatch center for being there 24/7, 365 days a year and holidays, birthdays and family events to answer your calls for help. Remember, it only takes a second for a life to change.

I {heart} Copics Friday Challenge #11

2010-04-23T15:49:00.000-07:00

This week's challenge over at I {heart} Copics is to use 2 patterned papers and 3 embellishments colored with Copics. I thought the paper I used was already pretty busy so I didn't want to clutter the card with 3 or more colored flowers. I colored pearls for her buttons, colored the ribbon stripes behind "beautiful" and the Color Me Crazy flowers with my copics to coordinate with the card.

I did some layering for a 3D affect on the umbrella. Of course it's a Miss Anya Stamp. Never used this one before so I couldn't resist.

Tonight I'm working on a basic scrapbook for my brother in Canada. Not sure any of it will be picture worthy when I'm done though. It's WAY basic, black pages and photo corners. Yup, thats it.

I {heart} Copics Friday Challenge

2010-04-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

I {heart} Papers just released more Chicken Girl Design Digis! Here's one of my favorites! I played around with a rainbow colored Giraffe but I just wasn't a fan with how it turned out. Fun sketch too. Simple put inspired something new with the ribbon. I'm in love with this ribbon! Faux suede. Feels luxurious! Very user friendly! I might just have to sneak some more of that in my next order too with my refills and schtuff.

BTW I made the look of clouds by using my colorless blender. Just kept coloring in circles until I reached the effect I liked. Let it dry between circles for more demension.

So Similar But So Different.

2010-04-15T18:28:00.000-07:00

I played around with a sketch I had found at the Mojo Monday but I can't remember what week it was. I had 2 cards to get done so I used the same sketch, same papers and similar embellishments. Thats where the similarities end. One is for a coworker that is getting married in 3 days.

The other card is for a friend who's Grandfather is very ill. She sent a message last night that she didn't think he would make it through the night. I haven't heard one way or the other so I'm simply leaving it as a 'thinking of you' card. I hope it will not be a sympathy card.

Either way I'm pretty impressed with the turn out. I'm always eager to use my favorite shade of green.
I was so elated to get my package from I {heart} Papers yesterday, being that I just placed the order on Sunday. I really wish I had done inventory on supplies before I placed the order because I found 3 things that I'm out of 2 adhesives and a Copic refill. Time for another order. Thankfully I have a whole roll of I {stick} Papers red tacky tape. That stuff is up there with super glue!

TGF Battle- We need votes!

2010-04-11T14:31:00.000-07:00

The Greeting Farm Battle week 3! Stop over and show some love to the Crazy Copic Chicks. This gorgeous page was done by Louise Forsyth. It's just so sweet and I love the colors. TGF has been having some technical difficulties with the gallery today. Please be patient if it's not working right away and be sure to keep checking back.

*This is not created by me*

I {heart} Copics Challenge #9

2010-04-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

Finally made it long enough with out my Albuterol to make a card. No more shakes! Ok enough of my whining. When I read the color combo for this week's challenge, B91, Y21 and BG15... It sounded so strange... But it is SO pretty.

I'm glad to have this challenge because I've been struggling with a card for my Brother and my SIL that are expecting. I'm happy to have the inspiration...and a niece or nephew on the way.

Dabbling in Photograhy...

2010-04-07T19:01:00.000-07:00

I always joke that I only hang out with attractive people. I'm fortunate to have some beautiful friends, both inside and out. It is a lot of fun when we go out though. My friend Heather is persuing a career in acting and modeling. I've been taking her headshots and such thus far. She's recently gotten a comercial gig and wanted to redo her comp card so we spent the day playing. Just thought I would share a few of my favorites.

Ok, I snuck a picture of Duster too. He usually hides the camera.

Another week another Battle...

2010-04-04T16:37:00.000-07:00

I'm asking again for votes over at The Greeting Farm Battle. My Blog friend, and Crazy Copic Chicks team mate, Danielle, created this bright and fun card. Stop over and help us stay in the battle for another week :)

As for me, I'm still battling with my asthma this week. 2 or more Nebulizer treatments a day are keeping me shakey. I'm waiting another 30 minutes then trying to escape to my room to see what crafting or cleaning I can get done. Thanks for stopping by.

Recovering...

2010-04-03T05:35:00.000-07:00

I think I got a little carried away last weekend with my friends and I'm paying for it now. All that partying took it's toll on my immune system and I caught the bug I was trying to avoid. I've had a cold all week. I'm finally starting to feel better but my asthma is slow to catch up with the rest of me. Inhalers just aren't all that affective for me so I use my Nebuilizer. (Machine that vaporizes meds so they can be inhaled). That makes me shake terribly so there has been no crafting/coloring this week. I'm hoping that on my days off I can catch up and maybe get ahead of the game.

Cast your votes!

2010-03-28T08:21:00.000-07:00

Be sure to stop over to The Greeting Farm Battle to cast your votes. Our team is the Crazy Copic Chicks. This challenge had me written all over it. I love all things retro one of my favourite color combos is red and aqua. I had so much making this card. Please give us a vote! It's "Idol style" so the lowest votes get the boot. Please vote so we can stay in the contest and play again next week!

As for a little mischief... I went out with my girls last night... some of them had been drinking since 3 o'clock in the afternoon. It took a couple shots to catch up and bring out "Red" but a great time was had. Pleasantly surprized to arrive at the bar (last minute change in venue) to find my favorite local band playing. No Jag this time, although, Quervo and I were friends. Ran into some of my "co workers", danced, laughed and made some new friends. I really needed a night out so I'm glad I was convinced to join them...by the way... this is a pic of my 2, usually modest, friends. This is what they look like after 7 hours of drinking. Everyone is home safe and with minimal hangovers. All mischief was completely innocent. :)

I {heart} Copics Challenge #7

2010-03-26T08:03:00.000-07:00

Another great sketch for the I {heart} Copics Challenge #7. Had fun playing with my Cosmo Cricket Garden Variety and my Greeting Farm Wild Sprout.

Things have been pretty mellow for me being that I have laryngitis. I've missed most of my shifts this week at work. My job is talking and typing, if I can't do either of those then I can't go in. I'm worthless. At least it feels that way when I can't talk. The whole thing makes me anxious. I'll be fine. I'm working today then off for the next 4 days. Excited to have a turkey dinner in the slow cooker so that I can go home, craft for a bit then go wild with my girls. I'm off for 4 days after today.

There are some nasty bugs going around. Stay healthy and well rested everyone!

I {heart} Copics Friday Fun Challange

2010-03-19T10:00:00.000-07:00

This week's sponsor of our challenge is Pixel Geek Designs. I used the Medium Gable Box template to create this spring inspired box for Candies. The window is made with my Nestabilities and a sheet of acetate. I use a scrap of acetate to suspence Princess Anya so that she looks like she's floating inside. The papers used are My Mind's Eye Ooh La La from I {heart} Papers . I used Copics to color Anya, the flower at the top and the button. I didn't think I would like the templates but I was wrong. Easy to print out, cut, decorate and assemble. I love them and I will go back for more.

Weekend in Dallas, Texas.

2010-03-17T19:05:00.000-07:00

Shane (bf) and I had enough of the gloomy, muddy and melty Minnesota weather, Not to mention that one of my best friends came up to celebrate my bday... We picked up and went to Texas for 2 days. It was a brief but wonderful trip. Stefanie planned some great things to cram into the 2 days. Day 1 included the 6th Floor Museum then the Bodies exibit. Both fascinating. We did some sight seeing then had a great dinner. Day 2 was the Dallas St Patty's Day Parade. We got a ton of beads... and get your mind out of the gutter... we didn't earn them that way! :) It was innocent I swear. Not saying a few guys didn't try to get a show but we behaved. Here's just a few pics to share in the Spirit of St Patty's Day...

Playing Catch Up

2010-03-17T18:53:00.000-07:00

I have a rotating schedule at work. This means every other month I get a few weekends of. My weekends get crazy! It's the only time I really get to hang out with my friends and sometime we get out of hand. I must always account for recovery time. It's this reason the makes my week or 2 prior to my weekends off super busy. I'm trying to tie up loose ends to I can have fun. This time around was no exception. Add to it becoming a Design Team Member for I {heart} Copics and a brief trip to Texas... wow. Moving on...

Here are my first 2 Design team assignments. The first features a digi from Michelle Perkett

The next featured the Brand new, just released and perfect for Spring Chicken Girl Designs.

Another first...

2010-03-01T05:29:00.000-08:00

I am over the moon, thrilled to announce that I am part of the I {Heart} Copics Design Team. Be sure to pop in to our Paper Craft Planet Group for tips,tricks, tutorials, advice and some fun challenges for all levels of experience. We are a very chatty group and welcome everyone. Also, check out my fellow IHC DT members. We have very different styles and we're from all over the world!

The IHC DT is as follows:
Jana – DT Coordinator

Kym

I hope to see you chatting with us soon. Feel free to leave me feedback and/or questions. Thanks you so much for stopping by! Did I mention that I {heart} Papers carries Copics? Wonderful place to shop, great service and very competitive pricing!

Christy

Mama Said Knock You Out...

2010-02-23T19:11:00.000-08:00

Bombshell Blog Hop...My first one in fact. I wanted to make something different from my normal coloring so I tried coloring Butterfly Queen in just black and grey tones to look like an old photo... she was screaming out for some red lips, which lead to my color choice for the card. Honestly, red and black area an easy choice for me. It's one of my favorite color combinations.

I'm not sure what the brand the DP's are. The sentiment is from the Greeting Farm. Colored with Copics: N9, N7, N5, N3, N1 and R27.

I am really hoping to get some coloring and crafting done with in the next few days. I've got a lot going on with immigration and all that... all is fine just paper work and $$$. If I'm MIA for a bit thats why. Home, work and forms upon forms... :)

Copic Challenge and my First Easel Card

2010-02-20T19:18:00.000-08:00

A good friend asked me to make a card for his girlfriend. Something simple and silly... I got carried away and I'm pretty pleased with the results. I tried my had at my first easel card and amazed by how simple it was and what a beautiful result. I'm hooked.

I raided the supplies that I already had so I'm not sure exactly what brands everything is but I'll do my best...

DP:Piggy Tales- Itsy Bitsy Spider

Cardstock: Bazzil- Lime Crush, Grapefruit Bliss

Flowers- Primas (I think)

Sentiment- QuicKutz- Icing rub ons.

Stamp: The Greeting Farm- Miss Anya

Colored with Copics...

Hair: E37, E55, E53, E51, E34

Skin:E02, E00, E000, R2o

Clothes: YG05, YG03, YG01

Y18, Y15, Y13

N09, N07, N05, N03, N01

I hope I didn't forget anything.

It's incredible what you can accomplish when you start to get organized. Moving my desk away from the television didn't hurt either.

I plan to blog more often so I hope you'll follow along with me and my journey. Thank you so much for stopping by. Be sure to let me know you were here!

Challenge Plus Organization Sparks Motivation.

2010-01-22T23:12:00.001-08:00

Not even close to being done with my craft room but it is coming along. In the mean time I've sworn that the only crafting I will do is for specific events, thank you's and birthdays that need to be given out immediately. As well as the Copic Buzz Challenges...

In going through one of 20+ boxes I found a projects I started 3 years ago and never finished. A cook book for one of my dearest friends Stefanie. The book itself was only half way done. I've ripped it apart and started over.
Copi Buzz Challenge this week was to create something other than a card with a cooking theme. I have gotten more done for this project in a shorter amount of time than anything else I have ever done. An old find that became new again was a kit from SEI that I tinkered with gently...I've thoroughly abused it today. I'm going to personalize it a bit more just for Stef but I'm pretty excited with how it came out. She's flying up from Texas for my Birthday in 2 weeks so I'm glad I will finally have her Recipes for her...Feel free to Share any Recipes or links for some that would be good to fill the box up with. Good night!

Christy

Fridays for me!

2010-01-20T11:07:00.000-08:00

I have a rotating schedule at work that is hard to follow... the to focus on is that it's my Friday! Off for 4 days. Things I plan to accomplish on my days off
Edit/Assemble my tutorial for prepping Pegboard for hanging, Take some "halfway there" photo's of my craft room, Make some recipe boxes as gifts and party it up with my Friends.
In the mean time I'm killing time by taking calls and checking on my favorite blogs.

Worth mentioning:

Gabby's Confessions of a Stamper. Gabby is one of the fabulous Bombshells at Bombshell Stamps. She's giving away blog candy today so be sure to hop over and check out the rest of the Bombshells as today is their blog hop.

My first posting as a team member with Crafty Storage. be sure to show your love :)

Back to work for me. I hope the rest of the week goes well for you all. :)

Planning, Piling, Purging, Purchasing, Patience...and a new Project?

2010-01-09T12:44:00.000-08:00

I'm making steady progress in my "hobbie studio" but it seems as though it will never end. I am willing to take any and all advice if someone is willing to dish it out.
The space:
The basement of our split level is divided by an Ikea shelf. One half is the tv room with sleeper sofa for guests, the other is my craft room. I have curious kids that get into things and an aging dog that sleeps on anything on the floor. It must be neat, presentable, and functional. Right now we're lucky there is a path to the back door to let the dog out.
The problem:
I think it's important to aknowledge how it got this bad to ensure it never gets like this again. In my passed moves I've had help packing up. Never allow non-crafters pack crafty items. Everything has been thrown half hazardly into boxes with no rhyme nor reason. When we moved into our current home I started sorting it out right away... then we had company and my loving boyfriend (in a frantic attempt to tidy up) threw the half sorted piles into random boxes. I claim no innocence on my part either. I may just be the worlds worst (or best) procradstinator... thus requiring the haste help from my friends. I'm also lazy and easily distracted when involving crafting. You know what I'm talking about, you open another box to find that thing you had to get but never used... you don't want to get rid of it so you try it out to make sure you like it... 4 hours later you've created 3 half done cards, 1 complete card with no intended recipient, and a larger mess that you started with. But hey, at least you've rationalized keeping that had-to-have tool. I digress...
What to do about it?
I've been shopping for solutions online. Both tangible and ideological. In my findings I stumbled upon Crafty Storage. Blog created to share storage ideas. Just so happens Paula is looking for help with the blog. I am now contributing to the blog as well. So not only am I investiigating for myself, but I will be experimenting and blogging my findings. I hope to someday soon reveal the before and after pics... with enough time to enjoy the room before moving again.

Frigid day in Minnesnowta

2010-01-03T05:38:00.001-08:00

UGH! Why must work always interfear with fun? lol. While my friends at Copic Buzz are having a blast with their online party I will be taking calls for vehicle lock outs, barking complaint (it's cold, dogs bark a lot when they want in!), and a few crazy calls mixed in. I'm greatful to have the job that I do, it's rewarding and keeps me on my toes. Factor in that I get to color with my Copics when it's not busy... makes a quiet day in the county worth while. Coloring along with peace of mind that people are staying in doors and safe. By the way, if you ever have questions about my job I am happy to answer.

Work in progress... Tonight I will be taking pics of the current condition of my craft room. It's sad that I had to clean up a bit (2 days) before I am willing to take the "Before" pics. I'm pretty excited to be focused on it. Even have help from my hunny. My new 12x12 paper fixture keeps getting in the way and moved, making it warp and fall apart. Shane to the rescue! He came in and fixed it right up for me. Securing it so that it doesn't give way to the shelves...AGAIN! As I continue to work on it I plan to share my do's and don'ts. Let me know if you have any requests as to what I could try. This is a joyous experiment for me! I'm making a trip to Walmart for more Jewel Cases for stamp/Nestability storage... anything else I should pick up for the room while I'm there?

2010-01-02T06:36:00.000-08:00

I borrowed this from one of my favorite bloggers, Nicole, and I couldn't resist. I have added a bit but I think it's a fun way to reflect on the year ahead. What will we be contemplating this time next year?

One year from today, I hope to have:

Learned- to be more patient and tolerant. Especially with my boyfriend's 11 year old son. More patient both at work and in my craft room.

Taught- The kids how to cook like my mom did. How to embrace creativity and how to use it everyday.

Changed- The way I look at myself in the mirror. Emotionally and physically.

Figured out- a method for coping with PTSD and fighting it.

Completed- My craft room, aka "The ever changing chaotic abyss in the basement".

Stopped- Wasting. Wasting money, food, craft supplies/paper, time, energy.

Started- A business venture. Something that is all mine and creative in some way.

Acquired- Wisedom...and perhaps a new car. :)

Given up- Trying to please the people in my life that don't matter.

Given in- To love, completely.

Visited- My family back home. Especially my mother, who's health is not the best. Also, some place I've never been, even if it's in the same city.

Left behind- Regrets, they don't get you anywhere. Consider them lessons.

Tried- As many new things as I can. Food, methods, ventures, sports and anything else possible.

Failed- At anything that teaches me a lesson in doing so.

Read- The entire Twilight series.

Written- On my blog more than once a month and in a journal everyday.

Master- the ability to tidy up as I go and not leave a trail of clutter in my path.

Splurge- On a massage and the occassional mani/pedi.

Allocate- More time to creativity.

What are you hoping for in the year ahead? Reflecting on from the year gone by?

Happy New Year!

Back in Action....

2009-12-21T08:01:00.000-08:00

I have been MIA for quite some time. Shortly after my blogging began I went dormant. Multiple things were happening in life and work that just didn't leave me wanting to type happy thoughts. Hopefully now, I'm back in action. A little catching up is in order...

Where I've been and what I've been up to...

Since my best friend Jake came home from Iraq in July I've spent every minute possible with him. This put all crafting on the back burner for awhile. We have been getting together once or twice a week to live life to the fullest and have a good time. Good time usually involves alcohol with us so I've been taking it easy the last few weeks. Just not healthy to keep up with that pace. He is returning to Iraq in the somewhat near future so I will continue to spend as much time with him as I can. You can't take the ones you love nor time with them for granted.

Holiday season.

Shopping and crafting as much as possible. I can't tell you what I am crafting just yet... but shopping has been a lot of fun. I got an amazing surprize from my Grandfather... Turns out he won the lottery and wants to share with all is grandchildren. I received a check for $2000 in the mail. Going towards bills, passport and some Christmas cheer! Thank you grandpa!

Things to look forward too....

Trying to not look TOO far ahead. I'm looking forward to Christmas Eve with my Boyfriend's family for I adore them. Casual afternoon with fun food, family and watching the kids open gifts.

New Years... will be a whole other post but a party is in the works...

For 2010:

I'm working on getting a new car, nothing fancy. Just reliable and minorly attractive. I'm counting down to We Fest in August and planning on a very large group to go with me. But most importantly- I hope to make it home to see my family in Alberta. I miss them tremendously! Especially this time of year.

I wish everyone a safe and Happy Holiday Season regardelss of waht you do or don't celebrate. Spend the time with the ones you love and remember that is what it's all about.

MIA...

2009-10-14T06:30:00.001-07:00

I'm so sorry I haven't posted anything lately. I have been running non stop. This is my busiest time of year. It's Autumn, when the trees are covered in citris, crimson and carrot colored leaves. When it's cool enough to wear your soft cozy sweaters and your favorite jeans. I've been working on the house, scrap room and Halloween Costumes.
Shortly after my last posting i took the Copic certification class... Since then I've barely had a chance to color. My aunt and I are planning a group of Minnesota Copic Fans to get together monthly to color and exchange tips, markers and images.
I've got a cousina and a coworker waiting to deliver baby boys. We're all extremely eager to meet Alex and Asher.
Other than that I've been working and spending time with my friends. Next couple weeks will be bitter sweet. Halloween is my favorite season, not just a holiday, but a season. There will be lots of parties and costumes... On the bitter side, my Best friend jake is still thinking of leaving me for Iraq again. I can only plead with him so much to stay home. It's his life, his desires and his decision. I hope to be back with another posting, some more projects and maybe a tutorial soon.

Copic Buzz Challenge #13

2009-09-13T08:34:00.000-07:00

Time flies and Copic Buzz is on lucky 13 already. Can you believe it? I found some paper that I was dying to use for something, then I was checking out the Dew Drop Store and BAM! There was the perfect stamp. Butterfly Swirl. I'm sure I'll use her a lot more.

Skin: E000, E000, R20Hair: E47, E37, E47

Reds:R46, R27, R27, R43, R20

Blue/Green: BG75, BG72

Looking forward to my Copic Certification class this week. If you are in Minnesota and are interested in a class, let me know!

On a personal note: Things have been emotional at work. Our beloved officer is still fighting and it's been quite a rollar coaster. Caring Bridge sites for Brienne and Leland.

Our Law Enforcement family lost a member last week and another was physically and emotionally scared. Both were responding to a call when it happened. I wont get into the all of the details but it's been a rough week for all of us. Really reminds you to cherish those around you and not take anything for granted. Hug your loved ones a little tighter today.

A Somber Day.

2009-09-06T05:59:00.000-07:00

There are things in life you just can't plan for. Naturally I would never have planned my second posting to be of sorrow and loss.
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/lelandheroux/journal
One of our beloved officers, Bri, gave birth to a brave baby boy, Leland. Leland was born with his bladder outside of his body. He has had surgery and is breathing on his own. Bri, however, has had many complicatons and has not regained consciousness since the C-section. This morning I walked into the communications center to find damp cheeks and red eyes. Overnight Bri took a turn for the worse. The hospital is currently filled with over 100 officers from St Paul, Stillwater, State Patrol and other agencies, in addition to close friends and family. It seems we are saying good bye.
The only way I can explain the relationship between the officers and the Dispatchers is to compare it to Doctors and Nurses. Both are a neccessary part of easch others job. Some get a long great and others, not so much. Bri is one of the great ones. When I worked over nights she frequently came in to dispatch to say hi. To laugh and sometimes gossip about calls and give us the dirt. Its small things like that that relieve a lot of the stress of the job. Knowing the offiers personally makes it easier in high stress situations. Knowing them, their voice and so on makes the job easier. You hear the distress in their voice before they tell you whats going on, you know how they do things and sometimes you can stay a step ahead of them.
The downside to this is that they are people. They are friends and family. When they hurt you hurt. This is hurting our family. The family of officers, fire fighters, EMS and Dispatchers. Even to those like me that weren't that close to her feel the pain.
Andy, Little Leland and family- You are in my thoughts.

Losing my Virginity...

2009-09-05T13:26:00.000-07:00

Blogging virginity that is... I'm on Facebook, Paper Craft Planet and occassionally I check my Myspace... But This is my first actual blog posting.

I don't proclaim to be anything special, just me.

Speaking of just me... If you don't know me already or you do know me but I have not left enough of an impression, here's a big about me.

I am currently 27. I live in Hastings, MN which is just south of the Twin Cities. I live with my boyfriend, Shane, his 2 kids and my 15 year old pomerainian, Duster.

I am a 911 dispatcher. I answer both emergency and non emergency calls and dispatch law enforcemnt, fire, and EMS. I love my job but it can be obviously stressfull. I don't intend to speak much of work but if there is something you are curious about, feel free to ask. I just wish that you be respectful. I don't ask you about the worst day you've ever had at work please be as considerate.

I handle my stress well thanks to my amazing friends! I'm sure You'll hear about them and our adventures &/or misadventures in the future...

Much of what I will likely blog about will be my other de-stressor... Crafting. I've been a paper crafter for years. Stamping, card making, scrapbooking and anything else. I also don't leave the house with out my camera. I love all things creative!

With all that said I can't wait to see who's following and share more with you in the future.

-Me.