{Words of Me Project}

Joy & Bliss on Day 5

2012-01-27T12:02:00.001-06:00

Yesterday was a creative one for me. Not only did I finish the wedding piece I showed you but I got the chance to hang out at Maryville's very own Art Experience. I have so much to share from that but am saving for another day:)

I was so looking forward to Friday...lots on my to-do list then dinner and a movie with my husband. A treat we've been doing without lately. However...life and all it's challenges has gotten in the way and we must deal with some ugliness today. *sigh*. In spite of that I DO have gratitude in my heart and want to share a bit of that with you today.

I am linking up with two sites today...Joy Jam and the Bliss List. Be sure and stop by to tell these gals hi. They are great.

1. I find peace, joy and bliss in my daily prayers. I am seriously so thankful for my Father in Heaven that is here for me every single day. What a relief to know I am not alone! {and neither are you}

2. Living on an extremely tight budget has taught me to enjoy the little things even more. It's been fun splurging on a Sonic drink during Happy Hour then driving around for 30 minutes or so to talk. Em and I do that about once a week and I love it. She really opens up and shares her day with me.

3. The fact that American Idol is back for Season 11 is enough to bring me joy. Hearing inspirational stories and great singers is why I love that show so much. Steven Tyler helps a bit, too. Talk about Bliss....:)

Speaking of JOY and BLISS...CREATING gives me both of those feelings!! How are you doing, girls? Are you making the effort to do something creative?? Here's a bit of inspiration to keep you moving through the weekend...Enjoy!

Prompts:

1. Take a favorite stamp or two, a stack of cards or tags and try to use the stamp in various ways. Somedays this is what I need to get my mojo grooving right along.

2. Read a creative magazine or book that's been sitting on your shelf awhile. I have a whole creative library right at my fingertips. It seems when I go back and re-look at them I always find something new to try.

Quote:

Duke Ellington

"I merely took the energy it takes to pout and wrote some blues."

Links:

1. Here is another blog with free blogger backgrounds. They have a very vintage/edgy feel to them.
2. If I looked cute in this hat I would so buy this...darling!
3. I need all the support I can get these days and Brave Girl's Club gives me that!! This piece of art is speaking to me right now.

Linking up with Joy Jam and Bliss List.

Happy Weekend, girls!!

Happy Creating!!

Love is in the Air-Day 4

2012-01-26T09:02:00.005-06:00

Day 4...I am learning so much already. Like even when I think I'm tired and just want to sit on the couch and watch TV...if I go to my studio, turn on my favorite tunes and start working...the ideas come. My creativity kicks in and before I know it an hour has passed. I'm left feeling refreshed and inspired. Love it!

This is a two page art journal spread from my Body Restoration class with the amazing Melody Ross. Yellow and turqoise...my two favorite colors.

Last night I began piecing together a special collage for a young couple getting married today in the Nauvoo Temple.

I don't know the couple but was asked by a friend to create something for them. Aren't they darling?

Over the the past 2 days I've been letting the ideas for this piece simmer. Honestly I wasn't quite sure what would happen.

I thought about what it means to be sealed in one of our Temples...the sacredness of it as well as the love these two have for one another...quite obvious in their photos don't you think?

Yesterday I printed off phrases along with their names and wedding date. Later last night I collaged a few pattern papers on a canvas, arranged photos and words around till I liked them and snapped these photos to share.

Obviously it's not finished. Still lots more to do with the background...paint, stamps, rub-ons and maybe even tissue paper to add texture. Next I'll decoupage the photos and words on then embellish with hearts and maybe a flower or two.

I hope this sweet couple loves the finished piece!

Here's a few Prompts today:

1. I love making cards! Why not sit down and create 2 or 3 cards. That way when you need one...they are ready to go.

2. Create a few fun embellishments. I love making tags and flowers. It's always nice to have extras on hand.

Quote:

"Keep love in your heart. A life without it is like a sunless garden when the flowers are dead. The consciousness of loving and being loved brings a warmth and richness to life that nothing else can bring."
Oscar Wilde

Links:

1. If you're looking for fabulous FREE blog templates...stop by Plumrose Lane. They are quirky and have a very vintage vibe. Too fun!

2. I have seen the blog button "Creative Everyday Challenge" around but have never participated in it. Who knows...maybe 2012 is my time to do that...check out all the details here.

3. Butterflies, birds, the colors yellow and turquoise....all inspire me! When you put them all together on an art journal page? Even better! This is one CUTE page:)

Girls...how are YOU doing? I love that you are sharing here in the comment section. I am trying to reply to each comment...be sure and check back for that. You are all awesome!

Happy Creating...

On a Roll...

2012-01-25T11:42:00.000-06:00

Day 3 and going strong. How about you?

I do have to be honest though...these days do get away from me. Before I know it the time is getting late and I am like...I haven't created today!!

My sweet Em had 2 basketball games last night in St. Joe so it was a late night for sure. Have you seen my Emma girl in action?? She started on the Freshman team and quickly made it on JV. That Emma is one Brave Girl for sure!! Love her. And THANK YOU to my friend Marcy. She took this amazing photo!!!

Okay...so we got home late and all I really wanted to do was head to bed but instead I went to my studio, grabbed my art journal and bag of pens and headed upstairs to my cozy bed.

I was determined to do something!!

This is my first art journal from my Brave Girls class last winter. There are several pages painted but not written on.

Each page asks a thought provoking question...when I'm in the mood I will answer each one like I did here.

It's so rewarding to go back and read my journal. I have grown so much in my thinking. I am truly becoming the person I have wanted to be for so long.

So back to last night. I knew I needed to journal something...nothing was coming to me.

Except ideas for a later time.

So I went with that and sketched out a few ideas for a "Pieces of My Heart" series I have in mind.

Each piece will be collaged and painted on a 6x6 canvas.

This series has been running around my head now for awhile...last night was the perfect time to just get it all down.

Before I knew it Em came in, too and shared her idea for a canvas...

The coolest part...was I had told her I wanted to do one based on her and Maddie's friendship. Those two girls are like "Soul Sisters".

Em and I began collaberating...I think she wants to make it herself which I am thrilled with. Anytime I can create with Em is good.

So that was my extent of creating...not much but yet I accomplished so much...I have a whole idea on paper for upcoming projects. Love that!

Here are a few Prompts for today:

1. Try a technique out of your comfort zone. {i really, really need to do this one!}

2. Paint a background on...

*paper

*canvas

*wood

*art journal

*wherever!

Quote of the Day:

"Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world."
Harriet Tubman

Stop by these Links:

1. Do you know Rebecca Sower? I have been a fan since the early 2000's and read her columns in Creating Keepsakes Magazine. Her blog is beautiful and simple and sooo full of Spirit and Truth. I don't visit her near enough. She is wonderful.

2. Click on this for 30 ideas to jumpstart your journaling!!

3. The more organized I am the better I feel, the more I get done and the more creative I am. Here are 10 ways to help us stay organized every single day!

How are you doing?? Stop by my Words of Me Facebook fan page to share your projects, ideas or just to talk!! Have a wonderful day, girls:)

Day 2 Inspiration

2012-01-24T09:25:00.000-06:00

Day TWO of our 14 Day Creativity Challenge...and just for fun I'm playing along with "What's on Your Work Desk Wednesday", too. It's been a very long time since I've done that.

Here's what I started working on yesterday...

Honestly, it's been forever since I've pulled my art journal out to just journal. I look at them often but never create anything. Really love that color blue...don't you?

So, literally the day FLEW by! Before I knew it I was making dinner and doing dishes and I still hadn't made it to my studio.

Feeling a bit frazzled I decided to just show up in space and start making something with what was lying around on my table....

I grabbed a sticky note and jotted down the words "Sometimes you just gotta put some paint down!" Then I opened a bottle of my favorite blue, squirted a bit out and went for it.

I decided that when I create art...any art it gives me peace. Just being in my studio with no noise, no television blaring gives me peace. Soooo....I just happened to have a PEACE stencil nearby and put that in the middle of my page. A few rub-ons and a butterfly later and it's shaping up quite nicely.

While I was there I wrote a few positive affirmations on sticky notes {this is part of my Body Restoration class}and mosied around my space, soaking up all the goodness. Man, I love that space:)

Here our a few Prompts for Day Two:

1. Finish that project you've been meaning to.
2. Create a valentine for someone special {it's not too early!}

Quote:

"Well," said Pooh, "what I like best," and then he had to stop and think. Because although Eating Honey was a very good thing to do, there was a moment just before you began to eat it which was better than when you were, but he didn't know what it was called. ~A.A. Milne

Links:

I adore Kelly Rae Roberts' work...just so inspiring. Here is a link to a piece I pinned recently. I think you'll love it!

A few months ago I found Angie and her blog "Om2Art". Her art is sooo peaceful and sweet. Check her out for some sweet inspiration today.

What are you creating today?? Be sure and stop by the WOMP Facebook fanpage and post your creations...share your ideas and thoughts!! Let's be creative!!

AND stop by "What's on Your Work Desk" today for more fabulous desks from all over the world:)

14 Day Creativity Challenge Begins!

2012-01-23T10:07:00.001-06:00

It's Day 1 of our 14 Day Creativity Challenge...Whoo Hoo!! Are you up for it??

Now I am sure as you are reading this you are thinking...

"Leslie, this sounds good and all but seriously I have soooo much to do! There is NO way I have time to create something everyday."

I beg to differ, sweet, brave girlies:) You see I am just like you. I have a gazillion things to do every. single. day.

I get up at the crack of dawn {5:15} every morning to study my scriptures. At 6:35 I leave for my church where I teach Seminary till 7:30. Then it's home again for a quick bite then back in the car so I can get to the gym. I am training to run a marathon you know;)

I have laundry
and dishes
and pets to clean and feed
and floors to sweep
and mop
and vacuum
and stuff to put away
and errands to run
bills to pay
kids to pick up and take here and there and everywhere
and meals to fix
and posts to write
and DREAMS to live!

WHEW!

But I know that when I take time just for me it makes my day run a little smoother. Makes me a little happier...less stressed.

The goal of thie 14 Day Creativity Challenge is just to create. Not to reinvent the wheel, girls. The idea is to just get you to show up in your space or at your creative desk.

Showing up is half of it don't you think?

Each day I'll have a few prompts or ideas to help you along as well as inspirational quotes and links to other creative gals. Now remember...the prompts are just here to give you a bit of a nudge so to speak. You do anything you want...they are just here if you choose to use them! Or you can save them for another time.

Oh, and remember...you don't have to finish a project each time you create! If you only have 10 minutes to paint a background then do that!! The idea, again...is just to show up and do something:)

Prompts:

1. create a list of art projects
2. go to your space, look at your supplies, see what you have. Make a pile of stuff that inspires you and start a journal page with that or layout. Whatever your medium is.

Quote of the Day:

~ Ideas must work through the brains and the arms of good and brave, or they are no better than dreams. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Creative Links:

1. Show off your Work Desk on Wednesdays. It's fun to see what others are doing around the world!!

2. My friend Megan is soooo crafty! Be inspired by her cards and scrappy layouts AND look for her in a magazine near you...she is being published everywhere this spring!!

***Girls be sure and post your projects, thoughts and your own quotes or ideas on the Words of Me Project fan page on Facebook. Let's inspire one another!!!

**Also...tell your friends!

**Oh, and there will be a sweet prize at the end of this challenge!!

Have fun!!!

A Little Challenge...

2012-01-19T11:37:00.002-06:00

So my last post I shared with you how my MOJO had taken a hike and that, after a month it was slowly coming back. Well, you know what?? I want it back 100%. And the very best way I know how to get it back is to just put in the time...

The creative time that is!

‘The creative is the place where no one else has ever been. You have to leave the city of your comfort and go into the wilderness of yourintuition. What you'll discover will be wonderful. What you'll discover is yourself.’ Alan Alda

Like Alan Alda says...I want to leave my city of comfort and go into the wilderness of my intuition.

I want to take all those ideas running around in my head and get them down on canvas or in my art journal or scrap with photos of my family.

Art is what I love.

It fills me up like nothing else.

So, I have decided that starting Monday, January 23rd to create everyday for 2 weeks.

Everyday I will journal or paint or scrap or draw...something.

AND I will share it here with you.

What to know the best part??

I want YOU to join me!!

I know, I know...there are about a dozen e-courses going on out there right now...but all I'm asking is just 2 weeks of your time!

January 23-February 6.

“There is no doubt that creativity is the most important human resource of all. Without creativity, there would be no progress, and we would be forever repeating the same patterns.” — Edward de Bono

So, will you join me? Come on, girls!! Let's get our creativity on!!!

Oh and don not worry!! You do NOT need to post your work unless you want to:) The goal is to JUST CREATE!!!

You girls are awesome:)

Mojo is BACK!

2012-01-17T11:48:00.002-06:00

It is only when we silent

the blaring sounds of our daily existence

that we can finally hear the whispers

of truth that life reveals to us,

as it stands knocking

on the doorsteps of our hearts.

~K.T. Jong

It had been a month since I had created anything.

I would try and try

to paint

or scrap

or journal...

but nothing would happen.

My mojo had dried up.

It was depressing.

I mean, I LOVE to create.

To play

and explore

with paint

pens

ink

and glue.

Finally,

at long last

I was able to spend an entire day

in my new space.

It was wonderful.

And just what I needed.

A piece I'm working on for a friend.

Most of the day was

spent without radio

or televison.

Just me and my thoughts.

A piece I'm working on for a friend.

I realized I don't spend near

enough time just creating.

Just being in my space...

no agenda...

just playing.

Must do this very soon.

Background for one of my Brave Girls

One of my very favorite

things about Saturday was

the Body Book

I am creating for the

Body Restoration Class

I am taking with Brave Girls Club.

Here's a peek...

What about you? Have you been in your studio lately? How long have you gone without creating? How did you get your mojo back??

Please share!!

Story in My Heart

2012-01-14T10:01:00.002-06:00

I woke up this morning thinking about my WORD for 2012...STORY.

I kept thinking am I really sharing mine? Do my friends and family and readers really know me?
My story.

I promised myself and you that throughout 2012 I would share pieces of myself as I journey towards health, art and peace. This is the year I MEAN it. I am going to be true to you and true to me.

Here's what I wrote in the front of my Gratitude Journal December 19th.

'My year of Story. Stories full of grace, light and hope. Stories of my Life. Stories of how we made it through 2012, on our new path filled with gratitude in our hearts. This is my year of Story."

It's been nearly 2 weeks since the new year began. 2012 has been different. I have been kinder with myself and others. I have charity growing in my heart.

Today I am working on my Body Journal for the class I'm currently taking from Brave Girl Melody Ross. It's called Body Restoration and girls can I just say what a story this is gonna be. I have a wonderful feeling that issues I have had with my body since I was in 3rd grade may just start to melt away. Melody worked miracles with restoring my soul...I can't wait to see what miracles await me and my body image.

There is still time to take this course. It's $99 and let me tell you from experience...Brave Girl classes ROCK. Not only are they art but they are soooo healing. Melody puts her heart and soul into each lesson and piece of art. Love it!

Do you have any artsy plans for the weekend??

It's Show Time!!

2012-01-12T18:54:00.000-06:00

This has been a long week and I am so ready for Friday and the weekend. Lots of good, good things that need to get done!

I have 2 art pieces with a deadline...I guess I better get busy:)

You know as I was thinking about what to write today it occured to me...I don't think I ever posted my show photos. And while this particular show wasn't so great sales wise...my Mom and I had a really good time and my courage muscles grew a little bit more.

The show was in a big pole barn...super cold and not very festive as you can see the drab wall behind my table.

Since it was Christmas I used a cheery red table cloth and sprinkled silver tinsel and bows all around.

I like it!

Looking at your work when it's all together like this is so cool. I am really proud of my work.

My Mom snapped this photo of me. I was so happy to be there...yet just a teensy bit worried I would not sell a thing.

By the end of the day I had made my booth fee back plus a bit more. Disappointing, yes but like I said earlier...a learning experience. The kind woman to my left was from Kansas City and had been doing shows for years. She said the crowd at this show just wasn't the right fit for several of us there.

I agree.

I had a chance to do a really nice show here at home in February...I called about a space, shared my work and all that. But when it came down to committing to it I decided not to. A bit crazy maybe but I promised myself I would focus on my health and the Body Restoration class I am taking over at Brave Girl's Club. There is no way I would be ready for a nice show by February along with working out, cooking clean meals and working on my class. There will be other shows and by then my art will be even more amazing!!!

Speaking of Body Restoration...there is still time to sign up. Click here to learn about this class!!

How have you flexed your Courage Muscles lately??

Oh Poor Me....

2012-01-11T11:32:00.002-06:00

So today is just one of those days.

I am ouchy and disagreeable

and tired

and whiny

and hungry.

I am having a bad hair day.

My skin is dry and flaky.

My clothes are worn

and don't fit the way I want them to.

Blah, Blah, Blah.

Wait

minute.

What

doing?

This is so NOT the way I envisioned

my year to go.

No, ma'am.

I am going to pick myself up,

dust myself off

and

SMILE.

Smiling is good right?

I am going to open up my gratitude journal

and write down 5 things I'm grateful for.

I am going to

not be so hard on myself.

The past week and a half I have been working out,

watching what I eat

and journaling it all.

I promised myself I

would have patience

with myself

throughout my journey

and

NO MATTER HOW HARD

it got...

would

not

quit.

And I haven't.

I'm just whining.

Today.

To you.

Thanks for listening....

Studio Tour

2012-01-09T11:23:00.002-06:00

"I like the idea of having a calm, quiet room to work on my music while knowing that outside there's noise and a lot happening. It's reassuring to know the 'everyday' continues even though inside the studio you feel so disconnected from it." -Keren Ann

Oh, I've been waiting and waiting and waiting!! Today's the day I get to show you my NEW studio!

I have showed you my space many times...and it's true I have the most amazing built-in space you can imagine....

It came with the house and I fell in love instantly. However, as time went by and I created in it I realized it was missing so much...windows, a place to sit and wall space. As time went by I missed the sun shining in and the feel of a wide open space. So I bought this custom made counter from a friend and put it in our family room...just a few feet away from my original space.

This worked quite well for awhile. There were 2 large windows, open spaces and I could still stand and create {the method I prefer} or add a bar stool and sit down. I left most my stuff in the original space and just walked back and forth if I needed something.

But then...I got ancy...it just wasn't what I envisioned for my space. Before we moved here nearly 5 years ago I had my studio in a small room with slanted ceilings. While it was a bit cramped I loved the coziness of that place...that's what I longed for.

Soooo, when my son decided to move his bedroom upstairs I took over that room {which was supposed to be the guest room}.

It was okay...it had the window and a desk where I could sit down and it was cozy....{a bit, too cozy with that turkey-LOL}

But still it just felt like a guest room. I mean it was full of bedroom furniture...including the queen size bed!

It was seriously not the ideal situation but it was kind of working ....

I went back and forth a lot...somedays I'd create in the original space then I'd go to the family room then back to this room. I just wasn't inspired!

Then I got an idea.

Our sweet girl Emma had been wanting a new room for MONTHS. Since our budget is pretty tight right now I knew there was no way we could afford a new bedroom set. However...there was a perfectly good bedroom set in my art studio!!

Soooooo.......we got busy and with the help of our sweet missionaries we cleared out Em's room {her bed, shelves, etc.} and moved all the furniture from downstairs up to her room. Oh, girls it was so exciting!!!

Next came MY space...the boys moved everything I wanted in and I got to work...organizing, hanging art on the walls and smiling.

Are you ready to see it?

Here it is...

Welcome

See?! No bed!!

Just wide open space!!

To the left is my custom made counter...

it's sooo awesome!

I can stand and see the sun pouring in...SWEET!

To the left of my counter is a corner cabinet

that was in my room since I was 2 years old!!

I have all my art journals in here and some of my favorite idea books

That cute apron hanging on the door was a handmade

gift from my Mom!

There is more storage in the bottom of this cabinet, too.

Can you believe my Mom paid

just $15 for this thing at a garage sale

back in the 1960's??!

To the left of the cabinet are two shelving units

holding supplies and my favorite art pieces.

Close-ups

My prayer canvas gives me strength

and reminds me that I CAN create.

This was one of the first pieces I ever did...

I love it!

Then that darling little bird print is

from my girl Leanne. Check her Etsy Shop here

and buy one for yourself.

The top of my bookcase...

More of my art, a charming birdie I found at Dollar General,

a butterfly pretty from my Mom and my

creative mentor and friend, Lisa Bearnson.

One of my favorite mini Brave Art pieces!!

My Ziggy Doll from my Dad and this amazing

REAL Brave Girl from the 1920's!!

I found her at a flea market and LOVE all the stories

that must surround her and this photo. She inspires me to be BRAVE!

Do you like it so far??

Here's the other side of the room. The desk is in the same place...it fits perfectly in that little nook.

I love it that now I can stand or sit.

Awesome!

Each wicker basket houses various items...Mod Podge, patterns,

paint, stamps and lots more.

Here is my view from behind my counter.

A few more close-ups...

This reminds me that YES!! I am a Brave Girl.

Right above this is a scrapbook layout of me being BRAVE!

That's me singing on a tour bus in New York City. My mom had told him my dream about me singing on Broadway one day...so....the driver drove us to Wall Street and Broadway, gave me a mic and made me SING:)

Here's most of my acrylic paints. The clipboard to the left has

ideas and quotes on it and that darling painting on the right

is from "Twinkle, Twinkle" blog author Kristin.

My counter top close ups...

For Christmas Mom gave me an Ott Lite!

My workspace. I can't live without that white shelving rack. It just doubles

my space...love it!

I have wanted one of these forever...finally bought myself one at Michaels...it was half off...sweet deal!

See those cutie, patootie stamps in there?? I have a set to give away this week!

A basket of cards for friends like you. Leanne's creation on top;)

And finally....

A girl can never have too many brushes!

That's my studio!!

I hoped you enjoyed the tour...

Sneek Peek-Joy Jam

2012-01-06T11:09:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday!! I am feeling absolutely amazing this week. And a BIG part of that is because of how I've eaten for the past 6 days.
As a part of my New Year's Resolutions I am following the "Eat Clean" plan by Tosca Reno.

Now Tosca is just like me {and maybe just like you!}.When she was 40 years old she was fat and frumpy...look at her today...WOW! She is 52 years old and in the best shape of her life.

Tosca says that 90% of what we eat determines how we'll look and feel...90%!!

The past 6 days I've eaten 5 to 6 small meals a day and taken out all the sugar in my diet. I feel fantastic!! I will be sharing more of this plan, recipes and what I eat next week.

So many things are bringing me JOY...I am linking up with "You're Heart Makes a Difference" and spreading my joy all over blogland!!

This little family of mine brings me JOY every single day!! This is us on New Year's Eve...oh what fun ringing in 2012 with this crew!! We had our bubbly and Times Square on TV and we were set:)

This sweet girl of mine is so JOYful.

She is silly and funny, too. Whenever someone's down Em will start talking in a goofy way or dancing around, spreading her light everywhere she goes. People just naturally gravitate towards here goodness. I want to be just like Em when I grow up!

The abundance of warm weather and sunshine this week has brought everyone in my small town so much JOY!! It's January 6th and my windows are open!!

And finally...my NEW and IMPROVED studio
is bringing me joy and making my heart sing...

Here's a sneak peek at one of my shelves and a few of my favorite things....

Be sure and come back Monday for a complete tour.

What brought you JOY this week??

Stop by for Friday's JOY JAM!!

Social Media Boundaries

2012-01-05T10:13:00.000-06:00

So far this New Year's thing is going pretty great. I am eating 5 to 6 healthy meals a day, working out, writing in my gratitude journal, finally taking my She Art 2 class AND staying relatively calm.

I am trying my best not to be hard on myself. In years past if I didn't do everything I said I was going to every single day...I considered myself a failure.

Not this year.

I don't write everyday in my journal.
I have lost my temper a few times.
And I am struggling with my workouts...I was really out of shape.

The difference is...this year I am doing the best I can.
And I know that.
And that's ok. It feels really good to be at this place in my life.

However...there is another area of my life that needs a major overhaul!!

I came to the realization yesterday that I spend waaaaaay too much time on my computer.

And while it's all good stuff...keeping in touch, reading inspirational blogs, finding tasty recipes for my family...it's a huge time-waster for me.

Instead of doing things I should be doing...I find myself sitting at my computer wasting the day away.
Not good.

Sooooo

I have decided to set some Social Media Boundaries.

1. 15 minutes a day on Facebook. That's it. No more. I will update my Fan Page, check on a few fave groups and move on. My biggest problem with Facebook is how often I check it throughout the day. It's crazy!!

2. I love blogs. I love finding new blogs. However, when they become a means for me to put off my real life then it's time to get off the computer, get up and start living! Sometimes it's information overload, too. So my goal here is to read my blog list {which are sooo many of YOU!} then give myself permission to spend a few extra minutes blog hopping...thinking about taking one day a week and allowing myself 30 minutes or so to indulge in that...maybe even an hour a week. We will see how it goes.

3. I get sucked in to all those "scandalous" type articles on Yahoo. NO MORE! Talk about a HUGE time waster!

4. I must set boundaries on how many times a day I sit at my computer. This is soooo important!! I mean I find myself checking in my blog, FB, Twitter, blog hopping, Yahoo...3 -5 times a day. Before I know it...an hour is gone.

So I want to know...how do you do it? What are your boundaries for Social Media? How much time do you allow yourself to be on the computer? Any suggestions to help me out??:)

Please share!! I would love to know!!

Word for 2012

2012-01-02T14:10:00.003-06:00

Happy New Year!

I am ready to let go of those things that hold me back

and keep me down.

I am ready to create a strong, fit body.

I am ready to open my heart

I am ready to become all that I can.

ready

tell

STORY.

All of it.

Every last little bit.

The next 365 days will be real.

No fluff.

I will share my accomplishments and strengths
My failures and weakness's.

I am ready to write my heart.

Share my story.

Be real.

This is the year I live my truths.

This is the year I will forgive myself for not being perfect.

For not always doing my best.

For mistakes I will make.

I will take my time,

be patient

and give myself some slack.

This is the year I will share my STORY...

*I will submit my art, my blog and my stories for publishing

*I will write guest posts for others and ask other bloggers to share here
*I will spend time in my Art Journals weekly

*I will get in shape by eating clean and working out, inspiring & encouraging along the way

*I will read my scriptures and other church publications daily, making sure to share

This year my family and I have a very big STORY we wish to share. To celebrate Jackson's graduation in May 2013 we are catching a plane and headed to....

Disney World!!

Sure, Disney is pretty cool on it's own...

but what makes this story different is

what we need to do before we

get there.

Run.

And

run

and run

and

run.

We are training for the 2013 Disney World Marathon

the second Sunday in January!!

This isn't something we decided on a whim.

This event has been in our hearts

for 7 years.

We were there during the race in 2005

and couldn't stop talking about it.

We promised one another that someday we

would be a part of this race.

That someday is

NOW.

I know all about marathons.

I ran two in my 30's.

I know the time and effort it takes to train.

It's hard to run 26.2 miles.

But you know what?

It's do-able.

And I can do it!

My kids can do it!

are

gonna

together!!

2012.

My Year.

My Word?

Story.

What's your Word for the year?

Trusting Myself in 2011

2011-12-31T11:51:00.000-06:00

Oh how giddy I am about this New Year.

2012.

Somehow it doesn't seem possible

to even be in the 2000's...

ya' know?

I remember when I was in high school

and my friends and I

would talk about how old

we'd be in the year 2000.

I think that all came from the

song "1999" by Prince.

Remember that?

I am 45.

This is the year I take my life up a notch.

No more waiting.

I learned so much this year.

It began with finding Brave Girl's Club

and taking Soul Restoration 1.

Read all about that here.

That class was life changing...seriously.

And this Time Line in particular allowed me

to see my life...

This page in particular changed my life.

I know it sounds so strange

so over the top dramatic...

but it's true.

It's 100% true.

I realized that those 5 years of my life

between 1972 & 1976 made me

who I am today.

The events that happened in those

young years made me see life

very differently.

I found the Spirit here.

I learned how to pray here.

Those 2 things saved my life.

I took another on-line class this year...

just for fun!

SheArt with Christy Tomlison.

This was my first girl...Claire.

Christy's class opened my mind and my heart.

Her class along with all I had learned in

Soul Restoration really helped me

find my artistic voice.

I began making my Brave Girl's like CRAZY!!

The more I created the better I became.

And the more I found my own style.

I was so happy putting words with images.

I began creating art to "Uplift, Encourage & Inspire".

I found out that to tell

my story and

share what was in my heart

I used birds and butterflies.

Collage painting

fabric scraps

sheet music

and

lace

all became my staples.

2011 was the year of the Art Journal as well.

In June I signed up for another

Brave Girl class...

Soul Restoration 2.

Melody taught me that in order

to live my Big, Bold, Beautiful Life

I had to make better choices.

I had to to choose how to use my time.

I took this to heart and am

still trying to watch less TV,

limit my computer time

and spend my time doing

what makes me truly happy...

Family

Art

Writing

Reading Scriptures

Taking care of me.

Despite all this encouragement

I had several bouts with the Fear/Doubt Monster

But then

using the tools I learned in SR1 & 2

I had this HUGE A-Ha Moment.

I realized I truly was a

Brave Girl!!

And I began living MY LIFE

on MY TERMS!

I was determined to live my

life in the best

way I knew how...

With COURAGE!

And

GUSTO!

And I did.

I even sold my Brave Art in

2 craft shows

and gave many pieces as gifts

to friends, family

& complete strangers.

I found myWINGS

in 2011.

I am on the right path

going into 2012.

I have sooo many new and

exciting goals...

so many areas of my life

I want to GROW in.

My WORD for 2011

was REINVENT.

I think I did a great job of

reinventing my art.

The way I think about myself as an artist.

Where will 2012 lead?

What WORD will I choose to lead and guide me in the New Year?

I will share on Monday, January 2nd.

Happy New Year Girls!!

Holiday Photo Shoot

2011-12-30T12:17:00.004-06:00

Howdy, Girls!! What a week it's been. Some good, some bad. Through it all I've grown and realized that all that matters in life is my family. Without their love and support life would be a very dark place.

We had such a wonderful Holiday! As you may remember we shut our business down one week before Christmas. Honestly...I wasn't sure what would happen. We hadn't bought many gifts before that and while I know Christmas isn't all about the presents I still wanted to have gifts for my kids. It all worked out so great...and yes, Jacks and Em wanted more...but were quite happy with everything.

Here are our Holiday Highlights from the past few weeks....

Here are Jacks and Em from TEN years ago making cookies at Grammies. Weren't they cuties?

Here they are NOW!

Gotta LOVE Grams! That's Sarah on the left. She and Jackson have been dating over 1 year now.

My Em is just so darn pretty!

You can NEVER put too many sprinkles on sugar cookies!

Christmas Eve was very low-key this year. Loved it!

We played Monopoly and ate munchies. The best:)

After Church on Christmas Day we came home to open presents. Santa was very good to us this year.

One of our favorite parts of Christmas are the stockings. They are always stuffed full! This year I found a white chocolate coconut bar, orange chocolate bar, DVD's and a Barnes and Noble gift card. YES!

Jacks gave Dave a hunting hat with built in lights. Perfect for the man that has everything:)

Toy Story has always been Jackson's favorite movie. When I saw this shirt I had to get it. He loved it!!!

What an awesome big brother!! He knows his sister well....

Christmas afternoon we headed over to my Mom's for a feast and more presents. Doesn't she look like Mrs. Claus?!:)

Jackson with one of Grams'presents.

That night we went to "The Hangar" to watch "We Bought a Zoo". LOVED that movie!! I give it 5 stars!!!! So inspirational.

The next day was our Ackman Family Christmas Get-Together Extravaganza!!

Here we are!

We had a wonderful time.

All the cousins along with Jackson's Sarah and Ali's Cody...

We have such AWESOME kids!!!

The next day...December 27th was Jackson's 17th Birthday!!

How did my little tag along get to be 17?! He has always been my buddy. Even now when I need a smile or a hug Jackson just knows and lifts me up. He is a good kid!!

Now because of what's going on in our world we really didn't expect to do a whole lot this day. However...my husband is the miracle worker and we were able to go to Kansas City for a night of BBQ...

Oh this was soooo yummy!

Then we headed over to "Dave & Busters" for hours and hours of arcade fun!!

This night was exactly what we needed!!

There is no doubt I am blessed. I know the Lord is watching out over me and my family. I am so grateful.

The past 2 days I have been in bed with the flu and migraines. Today I woke up still a bit ouchy but ready to BEGIN my New Year!! I can't wait to share my 2012 WORD with you!!

How was your Christmas Break, girls? What was your favorite gift?? My wonderful mom gave me an Ott Lite for my art space. Love it!

Please share!!:)

It Truly is a Wonderful Life

2011-12-23T11:00:00.000-06:00

My favorite movie of all time is the Frank Capra classic "It's a Wonderful Life".

This year...more than any other

it seems to fit what's going on in our lives perfectly.

Lately I've seen my husband

look like this many times throughout the day...

We shut down our Domino's Pizza store down last week.

The store that has been our main source of income for over 20 years.

Why we shut it down is unimportant.

The fact is we did.

And while a part of us is extremely happy we did...

the other part is a bit frightened.

To say our income has dropped substantially in the past 2 weeks is an understatement.

But yet, we are good.

We are.

We are so very blessed.

We have other sources of income that will sustain us.

Pay our bills, keep food on our table.

There will be no extras.

None.

We knew that going into it.

But still it's scary.

We have worries and concerns about our home, our family.

My husband shares a lot of the same characteristics with George Baily.

He's always helping others...

always.

Every time that scene comes on where George is taking his own money

for his honeymoon and passing it

out to the citizens of Bedford Falls I just laugh...

it's so my husband.

I can't count how many times Dave has

taken from us to give to others.

That's just how he rolls.

Throughout this ordeal rumors have been swirling around

town that the Ackmans are losing everything.

That we were forced to shut down.

Those rumors hurt.

It's not so easy walking into Wal-Mart when you feel like

all eyes are on you.

But for the most part...

those people that know us and love us...

they have been wonderful.

I am so grateful for them.

My husband is, too.

It's not easy on him.

He's the one out in the trenches...

making sure are bills get paid.

Making sure we can do this without too many problems.

That's why I started keeping a Gratitude Journal again.

Having a grateful heart keeps me cheerful.

Isn't that what Christmas is all about?

A grateful heart...

A cheerful life...

A smile for everyone we meet.

Tonight as we snuggle on the couch and watch our favorite classic

I will be counting my blessings.

And even though I'm not sure what 2012 will bring

I know that I lead a blessed life. I have so much.

My family.

My friends.

My faith.

A warm home.

Food on my table.

Love in my heart.

It truly is a Wonderful Life.

Merry Christmas Girls!!

Art Journaling Everyday

2011-12-21T10:10:00.003-06:00

It's Day 4 of my Favorite Blog List. Now, remember these aren't my only favorite blogs...heavens NO! They are just a sampling of blogs that have really caught my eye this past month and look forward to reading in the New Year.

Today's featured blog is "Balzer Designs". You may have noticed their blog button on my sidebar...

I found Julie a year ago on one of my late night Web Surfs. Her style of art journaling is so me...a bit messy, lots of texture and words and colors. Love it! My favorite thing about her blog is her monthly challenge..."Art Journal Every Day". With Julie's support {along with dozens of other girls} you are encouraged to create something in your journals every single day. Sounds hard...but the few months I did it felt so good!

I have been visiting her blog a ton lately in anticipation of the new year and my goal to get back to art journaling. I totally abandoned it last fall when I began painting so much and getting ready for my shows. Not anymore!! 2012 is the year of STORY for me and art journaling will play a huge part in that!!

Okay...so do you remember this room?!?!? And that turkey??

More...

And one more...

Girls...this room looks NOTHING like this now. Oh,no!! It is now my DREAM SPACE!! I am soooo excited to share all the photos with you!! Be sure and stop by tomorrow:)

Girls, I am sooo excited for 2012. I can just FEEL the goodness coming my way...how about you??

Funky Vintage Lovely

2011-12-20T09:10:00.000-06:00

December 20th?? Really??! Oh goodness...there is still sooo much to do!

But wait...I have decided not to run around like a maniac this year baking 3 kinds of cookies and 5 different candies and mailing out dozens of Christmas cards.

No.

This year I have decided to focus on my family and my Savior.

Em and I are making our family favorite candy, wrapping in a pretty cellophane bag and tying with a Christmas ribbon. I mailed out a few Christmas cards to friends and family that don't have Facebook and that's it. It feels good not to try and do it all this year:)

Okay...so we're on Day 3 of my 7 day "Favorite Blogs of the Past Month Tour".

Meet April. She is amazing! She is oh, so talented and works side by side with her husband creating "Funky Vintage Lovely" things for your home.

If I could afford everything she creates I would buy it all. And she is just so darling!! Every Wednesday she shares what she wears. Someday I hope to dress just like her...so my style:)

Here is a sample of her posts and her photos...they are so inspiring. I think half of my Pins on Pinterest are from April!!

Queen Bee Market
What I Wore
Her Shop

Stop by and Say Hi to the lovely April today!! Be sure and tell her I said HI.:)

Click here to day HI!

Have you cut down on some of the Holiday craziness?? What and how are you doing??

The Amazing Danielle!!

2011-12-19T11:27:00.002-06:00

Today's Featured Blogger is Danielle Daniel. Her Blog "Her Painted Word" has brought me smiles, joy and such peace these past few weeks.

Danielle has a way with words. She speaks from her heart-100% and you know it. She tells stories about her family and her art. Each of her beautiful girls has such a story to tell.

Danielle has been published in two of the latest Somerset Publications {i have them both!}

I have never read this magazine before...simply because I have never sewn...but Danielle is changing all that! I picked this issue up last Friday and made a goal to begin stitching in 2012!!

You can also find her work and a wonderful article in this magazine. If you've never read Somerset Studio...you are in for a REAL treat!! Not only does Danielle have a truly remarkable tale to share but Sweet Soraya is in this issue as well. In fact both Danielle and Soraya are on the COVER!!:)

I love it when a Blog not only inspires me with their artwork but also with their heart...their words...their stories. Danielle does that and so much more!!

Photo from Danielle's Blog

Be sure and stop by "Her Painted Word" when you have a chance. You will love it!!

Retro Seventies

2011-12-18T14:57:00.000-06:00

In the Spirit of Gratitude...for the next 7 days I will be sharing 7 blogs I am grateful for. 7 blogs that continue to touch my heart, inspire and encourage me to be a better me. They are in no particular order and please note...just because your blog may not be on the list does not mean that you aren't inspiring, ok?? There are soooo many...I am just highlighting a few that have helped me so much in the past month.

Today I am featuring Danielly Thompson's blog and her "55 Days of Vintage Christmas".

I found Danielle via Twitter and fell in love instantly at all her kitschy Christmas crafts from the 1970's. Everytime I visit it's like a trip back to my childhood. Memories of Grandma Jackson's needlepoint snowmen and angels, date balls and watching the Lawrence Welk Christmas Special:)

Remember these melted plastic ornaments? I have all of these!! My Grandma Jackson was the Queen of 70's Christmas decorations.

This is my very favorite time of year...I love everything... from the special holiday movies, music and extra love we have for one another. Danielle's fun blog has given me a little bit of my Grams and my good memories from that time in my life.

Oh, hey...before I go...here is my absolute favorite Christmas treat...Gram's Date Balls. Enjoy!!

Ingredients

2 eggs, beaten

1 cup white sugar

1 cup chopped dates

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon butter

3 cups crispy rice cereal or Special K

1 cup flaked coconut

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the eggs sugar and dates. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally, and boil for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla. Mix in crispy rice cereal. Butter hands and roll the mixture into walnut sized balls. Roll the balls in coconut. Serve.

These are sooo good!!!

*What is your favorite Christmas treat? Please share!

Gratitude in my Heart

2011-12-15T11:25:00.001-06:00

I believe that when we're in need of something the "universe" makes sure we get it. My universe is my Father in Heaven. He knows me. He knows exactly what I need to help me through my day, my struggles, my life.

Lately things in our life have been less than ideal. We are under stress that I imagine will last into Spring and maybe beyond...

Yet, despite all of this I am choosing to find the good in my life.

I am choosing to Believe that everything my family and I may go through in the next 6 months has a purpose.

I choose to grow and become a better woman.

I choose to be grateful.

Last Sunday night as I was sitting on the couch making menu plans for the week, it dawned on me I should start a gratitude journal. Years ago I had kept one and loved it! Thanks to author Sarah Ban Breathnach and Oprah Winfrey I have a book filled with the sweetest little memories of my children and my life that brought me joy and peace no matter what kind of day I was having.
So, I started a gratitude journal that very night.

The next day while I was reading through my favorite blogs I read a post by Lee Clements. The title of the post? GRATITUDE. I smiled and nodded my head as I read her lovely words. She shared about her gratitude journal and how Sarah Ban Breathnach had been such an inspiration to her. Wow! I couldn't believe it!! Less than 12 hours before I had been thinking about the very same thing.

About an hour later I picked up our church magazine the Ensign. The first page I flipped to read something like this..."100 reasons you should keep a gratitude journal".
Then I turned the page and their was one of my favorite church leaders Henry B. Eyering and his talk on gratitude.

Now I know gratitude is a hot topic during this season. But I don't believe in coincidences. I believe that because my Father in Heaven knows what's ahead for me...He is trying to gently remind me what's truly important.

We are not our things. We are not our house, our cars, our clothes, our stuff.

What's important in living a good life is family. It's love at home. It's prayer. It's knowing that we can weather any storm because we have one another.

That same night I was baking a few treats for our Seminary Christmas party. I had 2 packs of saltine crackers on a cookie sheet and was spreading them around in oil. I stopped for just a moment and couldn't believe what I saw. On one of the crackers was the most perfect heart baked right in. It was perfect. And no, I didn't get a photo. I was too busy showing everyone and laughing. We all thought it was just so cool. I thought it was more than cool. I knew it was another sign. I knew it was the Spirit witnessing to me that I was on the right path. That as long as I keep my heart filled to the brim with faith and love and gratitude...then everything would be okay.

"Peace I leave with you;

my peace I give to you.

Not as the world gives

do I give to you.

Let not your hearts be troubled,

neither let them be afraid."
~ John 14:27 ~

My Story Matters

2011-12-12T11:30:00.001-06:00

"Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It is a very mean and nasty place and it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't how hard you hit; it's about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward. How much you can take, and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done. Now, if you know what you're worth, then go out and get what you're worth. But you gotta be willing to take the hit, and not pointing fingers saying you ain't where you are because of him, or her, or anybody. Cowards do that and that ain't you. You're better than that!" -Rocky Balboa

If you've read by blog for very long...you may think my life is all smiley faces and exclamation points.

When I began writing "Words of Me Project" I wasn't quite sure where it would go. The past year it's been filled with stories and photos of my art. As I've come out of my artistic shell and began sharing with all the world I've enjoyed the comments and cheers each of you have given me. This blog has been my safe place. A place I can come and spill my heart out...honestly and thoughtfully. This is my place on the Web to share. To spread sunshine. To uplift and inspire you.

Lately, my heart has been whispering one word over and over again.

Story.

I hear it as I'm typing this post.
I hear it during my journal writing, when I'm creating.
I hear at the oddest times...like when I'm studying scripture or driving.

Story.

Tell stories. Write stories. Share stories.

During the five years I wrote my newspaper column "View From the Front Porch" my readers knew me...the real me. The ugly me. The sad me. The happy me! Each week I shared a Story of my life with them. I looked at everything like a Story. I learned from the Stories I wrote about.
Each Story I told touched one of my readers in some way or the other. I know this because I couldn't go anywhere in my small town without someone coming up to me and share how my Story had been their Story, too.

I am ready to share My Story with you.
Sometimes good.
Sometimes sad.
Sometimes angry and upset.
Sometimes exhilarating.
Sometimes scary.
Sometimes smiley faces and exclamation points!

Always real.
Always worthwhile.
Always something you can learn from.
Always Me.

"Words of Me Project" is the Story of my life. I hope to continue inspiring, encouraging and uplifting you in your journey and with your own Story.

Thank you so much for being here. Writing is my first love. It is a passion that burns deep in my soul. Without writing I don't think life would be so meaningful. When I write I can see. Writing is my song. It brings me joy. It makes me smile. And when something I write touches your heart in some way...well, that's a feeling I never get tired of.

My life is a bit hard right now. So many unknowns up ahead. The Rocky Balboa quote at the top of this post sums up the way I'm feeling at this moment in my life. The words that speak to me are these...

But it ain't how hard you hit; it's about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward. How much you can take, and keep moving forward.

I am choosing to move forward. I am choosing to put all my trust in the Lord. He knows my heart. He knows that trials bring us closer to Him. They refine us. They make us stronger.

I am looking forward to 2012.
I have been thinking about my Word for the new year. One that keeps surfacing is Clear. But I'm still not quite sure.

I encourage you to take a look at your life. What are the qualities you want to bring into your life this new year? Where do you want to go? What are your passions and are you honoring them?

You Might As Well....

2011-12-09T12:38:00.001-06:00

If you want to be happy, be.

~Leo Tolstoy

New Projects!!

2011-12-07T07:54:00.001-06:00

Life is going 100 mph!! I have been working non-stop on projects!! This Saturday is a big show in Bethany...I am soooo excited:) Along with creating there have been basketball games to attend, dinners to make, laundry to do, Christmas decorations to put up, Blog posts to write {or not-LOL}, activities to attend and Seminary to teach. It is nothing short of crazy here!!!

Here are a few of my latest projects....

Love the vintage photo in this one...isn't she darling in her hat? I imagine she was quite the Brave Soul.

I am working on sooo many Brave Girls!! Here are two of my latest....Candi and Tiffany.

Both girls are on an 8x10 canvas and ready to hang. I sell them for $15 each.

One of my latest creations...Brave notebooks!! These are perfect to jot down all your dreams in :)

They sell for $4 each.

And finally I can't WAIT to show you what I do with these;)

In creating, the only hard thing is to begin:

a grass blade's no easier
to make than an oak.

— James Russell Lowell

What creative projects are you working on? I would love to know!!!

Christmas Project Re-Do

2011-12-05T10:28:00.001-06:00

**This is an artsy Challenge I first posted in December 2010. Feel free to print off and enjoy!!

I wish we could put up some of the Christmas spirit in jars and open a jar of it every month.

- Harlan Miller

12 Days of Christmas Project

Cover of my book

The point of this happy, little book is preserving some of your fondest Christmas memories along with using photos and supplies you already have. {you may wish to purchase a few items, but keep to a minimum}

I seem to have the most fun scrapping when I gather a basket of supplies, my photos and a few idea books and just start scrapping. For this project I am using a few different Christmas, word and alphabet stamps, glitter Christmas trees, rub-ons and stickers along with holiday patterned paper. The photos are from Christmas's past....some from my childhood mixed in with some of my children.

Day 1

Day 1: What does Christmas mean to you? When do you get into the Holiday Spirit? Is it when you hear your favorite song, watch a beloved holiday classic or taste your first sip of eggnog?

The photo on this page is from 1979. It's me, at Grandma Jackson's house Christmas Eve. The journaling reads: "I love Christmas! It's a time for family, my fave music, kids out of school, seeing loved ones we haven't in years, Jesus Christ, our fave Christmas foods and movies! As I've gotten older Christmas is a time I reflect on my childhood. So many precious memories of 3211 Ave. J with me, Mom and Dad. I realize how special family traditions are...family times. I get into the Holiday Spirit best by listening to music. Everyday I blast carols throughout our home!:)"

Day 2

Day 2: Think about ways you can give that don't cost much. Is their a charity you help yearly or would like to start helping? Maybe you spend a few hours in a nursing home each year singing Christmas carols. Be sure and make a list of all you do or would like to do.

The photo on my Charity page is our family tree from my High School days. My journaling reads: "During this special time of giving, it's important to have Charity in our hearts for others. We will...*sing carols with the missionaries at the Sr. Center *visit at the nursing home. Feels Good!!!"

Day 3

Day 3: It just wouldn't be the Holidays without food, right? What are some of your fave food related memories from Christmas past? Do you have a traditional item you bake? Write a fave recipe down, maybe include a photo from your childhood or when your kids were small of you enjoying it.

My Mom has a real gift for table decorations so I had to do a page on that. I mean she goes all out! Journaling: "Grandma always creates a beautiful table for Christmas! I am grateful for her gift of decorating. It's festive and full of so much love."

Day 4: Share a typical childhood Christmas. From the smells, to the shows you watched, the way the house was decorated, etc.

Day 4

My photos are from 1982. Many of our Christmas's were spent in our newly built upstairs. I can still smell the kerosene heater my parents used to heat it! Journaling: "Grinch on TV, sugar cookies with sprinkles only, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Mom and Dad's anniversary Christmas Eve, decorating the tree, Dad putting $50 bills in a box full of bricks, waiting for Gram and Gramps, me waiting on the couch, looking out the window...her gingersnaps in a box with wax paper...."

Day 5: Make a list of your family favorite Holiday movies and TV specials. If you play games over break make a list of those, too.

Day 5

Journaling: Some of our Faves....Jim Carrey's "Grinch", Rudolph, Santa Clause is Coming to Town, Jingle All the Way, Elf, Christmas Vacation, It's a Wonderful Life, Scrooged and Frosty. We ADORE movies!!! Every Holiday we play lots of games! Tripoly, Monopoly, Life, Uno and Skip Bo. The Best!"

Day 6: What is the absolute BEST gift you've ever given? Was it hand made by you? Or did you save the whole year long just for this one perfect gift? Who received it? What did they think? What about you? What is the most AMAZING gift you ever received? Who gave it to you? What made it soooo special?

Day 7: Christmas Carols. Some people love them, some hate them...I personally ADORE the music of the season and have my personal favorites. Make a list of your favorites...or share a few you can't stand. Be sure and share any special stories that go with the songs.

Day 8: If you could choose one treat to eat this time of year what would it be? Why? When did you first eat it? Who made/makes it? Is is now a tradition in your family?

Day 9: Describe your home THIS Christmas Season. What decorations are up? What decorates your tree? Do you like the handmade look or are you into lots of sparkle and the perfectly matched look? Is their a certain fragrance you like to have in your home during the Holidays?

Day 10: Where is your favorite place to celebrate the Season? Do you usually stay home or travel far away?

Day 11: Share what your magical day would be like in a perfect world.

Day 12: What is on your Christmas Wish List this year? What about when you were a child? List everything!!

There you go...all 12 prompts to create a special little book!! I love doing projects like this...not only will I have something for generations to come but this is soooo easy and soooo do-able even during this hectic time. One photo per page, a few embellishments, journaling and your done! Please take time to get this done!

This week I encourage you to DO your best. Give your all in everything. Your family, your blog, your friendships, your Christmas Spirit!!

Be a DO-ER!!!

What will you DO this week?

Heart JOY

2011-12-02T08:17:00.001-06:00

Oh happy day!! It's Friday:)

I am linking up with "Joy Jam" today...what a great way to end my week...remembering all things that brought me JOY.

Remember I told you I had one more story to share with you from my first show I did a few weeks ago? Well, I do and it touched my heart so much...I don't think I'll ever forget it.

So, I'm at the show. Ladies are stopping by, checking my work out. Some are buying and some just smile and tell me how much they love my work. As I finish wrapping up a sale I look up and notice a middle aged woman, somewhat disheveled looking, gazing intently at each one of my pieces. She never looks up...her eyes go from one piece to another. I can see that she's really getting my work. My words and images are speaking to her heart.

After several minutes she looks up at me and hands me a dollar bill. Puzzled, I tried to figure out what the dollar was for...she didn't have anything in her hand but my business card.

"That's my business card, Ma'am...you don't need to pay me for that."

"Oh, yes I do. You see I love your work but I can't afford to buy a piece so I'll just take this so I can keep it with me and remember these words."

Holding the card close to her heart, with tears welling in her eyes she gave me the dollar and turned to leave.

"Please don't stop what you're doing. It's so beautiful. People need to see your work."

If this had been my only sale of the day it would have been enough.

Thank you dear, sweet, kind lady for making my day and bringing JOY to my heart.

This man right here loves me. He gets me. He is my very best friend!! Dave you bring me JOY:)

We never thought we'd be able to have children. We tried for 4 years to have our son, Jackson. After tests, tests and more tests we found the problem and got pregnant!! What a JOY my life has been because of Jacks!!

Two and a half years later my sweet girl came along...Miss Em!

This is Em on the left with her friend Conner after the High School play a few weeks ago.

I think the greatest thing that has given me JOY this week is phrase...

I don't know about you...but it seems like I need to forgive myself daily. Each day something needs a fresh start. What a great JOY it is to know that yes, I can start today.

So what brings you JOY? What gifts have you noticed in your life this week??

Thank Goodness for Little Girls

2011-11-30T09:55:00.001-06:00

Last year when I began this whole Brave Girl journey of mine {I took Soul Restoration} I began to uncover my Truth.

I began listening to my Heart and trying to hear what it was telling me.

Deep down I wanted to create. I knew I couldn't draw or paint or work with clay. What I did know was that I adored WORDS. I am passionate about WORDS. I love putting words on paper, in my blog and I discovered my heart song when I began putting WORDS with pictures and paint and flowers.

I began believing in my work. Creating my Brave Girls and collages added so much to my life. I began taking on-line art courses...learning and growing and realizing that I could create.

As my confidence grew...my art became more of my own. My thoughts and feelings on canvas were not only inspiring me but others as well.

I decided to take a leap of faith and enter an area craft show. When the first one didn't work out...I tried again.

My first show was a couple of weekends ago. It was amazing! The support and love given to me that day will stay with me for a very long time.

My first sale of the day was so sweet and happened within 5 minutes of the show's opening. A young girl {about 10 to 11} came over to my table. She was so darling. As she looked at each piece her eyes grew big and smile wide...

"Grandma, get over here!! I know what I want for Christmas!!"

Just hearing those words from her mouth blew me away. She wanted something I had created for Christmas??!

"Grandma, I want this one."

Note: It wasn't this exact piece but one similar...there was a vintage girl and a butterfly in the piece she chose.

Her Grandma warned her that if she bought it this would be her only present from her. The sweet girl said..."That's okay, Grams...this just speaks to me. Can we get one for my sister, too?"

Ok, so an 11 year old loves my work. It speaks to her!! Holy cow!!

Oh, and I simply wanted to hug Grandma because that wonderful woman bought that piece and one of my Brave Girls "Sassy" and gave me 2 bucks extra 'cause she loved my work so much! WHOA!

As they walked away I winked at the girl and gave her smile.

"I knew you were a Brave Girl," I said.
"How?" she asked.

I nodded at her shirt and she grinned. Her hoodie had a butterfly with the words Dream, Hope, Imagine. It was awesome!!

I have another story to share but I think I'll save that for another post.

One more thing...I have another show coming up December 10th in Bethany, Missouri AND I have been invited to sell my work at a shop in town called "Cow Girl Flair"!! I am beyond excited and working so hard on Cow Girls!!! They are turning out soooo cute. I will share later:)

Have a wonderful day girls. I leave you with one of my latest Brave Girls and a link to my favorite Brave site...Brave Girls Club. Melody and Kathy have inspired me to live my dreams!!!

"I long to accomplish a great and noble task, but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they were great and noble." -Helen Keller

Random Monday

2011-11-28T14:19:00.001-06:00

So many things to be thankful for this week!

This was our Thanksgiving table. I can't believe I actually got to be in the photo!!

Of course we had an abundance of food. All quite delicious. What a wonderful cook {hee, hee}

These two kept snitching ham all afternoon.

I make a ham and turkey each year. We love them both...and you gotta have turkey, right?!

Sunday was my son's 1 year anniversary with his girlfriend Sarah...

"Hey, Mom can you make Sarah and I brunch on Saturday...I want to surprise her but since I always burn the eggs...."

"I would love , too Jacks:)"

On the menu...

scrambled eggs
bacon
chocolate chip pancakes
milk

She loved it.

Have you seen this book??! Thanks to my daughter's art teacher I now own it.

This is so darling. Love it!

And speaking of girly art my sweet Mama bought me this for my Birthday!!


Happy Birthday to ME!!

It started a few weeks ago...but I haven't had time to stop by the classroom yet! Good thing Christy gives you 6 months!

Oh and thanks to Andria...I am participating in 1001 Journals with April Cole!!

I still must tell you the two beautiful stories from my first craft show AND tell you some exciting news!! I will tomorrow {promise}. Blogger is being soooo slow today and this post has taken waaay too much time to write!!!

Here's a background I created...15 in all this weekend:)

How was your holiday??

My Wish for YOU

2011-11-23T12:22:00.001-06:00

Best ThanksgivingThanksgiving is here, so our minds have turned
To what time has taught us, to what we’ve learned:
We often focus all our thought
On shiny things we’ve shopped and bought;
We take our pleasure in material things
Forgetting the pleasure that friendship brings.
If a lot of our stuff just vanished today,
We’d see the foundation of each happy day
Is special relationships, constant and true,
And that’s when our thoughts go directly to you.
We wish you a Thanksgiving you’ll never forget,
Full of love and joy—your best one yet!By Joanna Fuchs

My Blog friends...you are some of the very BEST people I know. Thank you for your support. Thank you for sharing your hearts with me.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!!

It finally happened!

2011-11-21T09:12:00.001-06:00

"Flaming enthusiasm,

backed up by horse sense

and persistence,

is the quality

that most frequently

makes for success."

-Dale Carnegie

Over the weekend something happened...

I experienced my first show.

It was so much more than I expected.

And I have some

pretty awesome stories to share.

I was so afraid to do this.

So afraid people wouldn't get my Art.

But they did.

They got it!

They oohed and aaahed

and bought so much!!

My next show is Saturday December 10th.

It's a BIG one. Lots of vendors...

lots of customers:)

I have sooo much work to do.

I can't wait to get busy.

My mind is working overtime.

The ideas are just piling up in my brain

and I 'm trying to figure out how I am gonna

fit it all in!

But I will.

"We can accomplish

almost anything

within our ability

if we but think that we can!"

-George Matthew Adams

Along with my show I have another

HUGE announcement!!

I will share that along with 2 inspiring

stories from my show in Tuesday's post.

Have a CREATIVE day, girls!!

Friday's Joy Jam!

2011-11-18T12:01:00.001-06:00

Happy Friday, girlies! I don't know about you but I am soooo ready for Friday and Thanksgiving Break!

I started my morning teaching Seminary to my class then went to the gym for a 25 minute jog/walk then I was able to spend 55 minutes at the massage therapist. Oh what JOY that brought me!! I am feeling so good now {big smile on my face}

Sooo many things bring me JOY! Here are a few of them....

No, I don't have these shoes...{sure wish I did!} These represent 2 weeks of exercising. November 7th I committed myself to an on-line Healthy Holiday Challenge for 8 weeks. I have a partner and everything:) In 2 weeks I have joined the gym again and do anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes of cardio, stretching or yoga a day. It was slow going at first but as of yesterday I was adding jogging bursts during my treadmill time. My heart and mind are all in sync...feels so good:)

Along with working out I am eating cleaner {trying to avoid high fat snacks and sugar} as well as drinking more water. There is nothing so good as an ice cold glass of water with lemon. Makes me feel good inside and out.

Oh how I LOVE Thanksgiving! Each year I spend the morning cooking turkey, stuffing, pototoes and more while watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade with the kids. I make sure and have Christmas tunes close by, too.

Would you look at these two?? Jackson and Emma!! This seems like ages and ages ago...but yet, it doesn't. Funny how that goes. Em was about 3 here and Jacks was 5.

Here they are today....nearly 17 and 14.

And finally I am soooo JOYFUL because of this cold-blooded man....;)

Yes, Breaking Dawn opened at 12:01!!! My family and I have our tickets and will be headed to theaters EARLY for our 9:45 show tonight. Can't wait!!!

I love the idea of JOY and am linking up with a NEW blog. Check it out!

Link up here.

What's bringing you JOY this week??

Fire Up

2011-11-16T06:24:00.001-06:00

"Woman is so made that whenever anything fires her soul,

impossibilities vanish."

-La Fontaine

The Power is Within YOU!

2011-11-14T16:12:00.001-06:00

Last Friday was Oprah's Life Class Finale and it was as if she were speaking directly to me. Love it when that happens. Have you seen Life Class? Don't even know what it is? Click here to see all 25 episodes. They are amazing!

Anyway...Oprah's last episode was entitled "You've Always Had the Power". Think of that scene in Wizard of Oz when Dorothy is asking Glenda to send her home. Remember what Glenda tells Dorothy??

Dorothy had ALWAYS had the power within her and the best part?? We do, too!!!

Sooo many women already know that and are such great examples to me. I shared many of them with you in this post. Be sure and stop by to check out the amazing women I spotlighted.

Leanne and Jodi are two women in my life who, at this very moment are living their creative dreams. Not because they got lucky and it's just happening to them. No because over the past year they have worked so very hard, painting, drawing, writing, sharing and finding a way to do it all.

They have tapped into their own hearts, they believe in their dreams and they are taking steps daily to insure their dreams come true. These two ladies are like my own personal compass. Each time I read their blogs or see their work it reminds me of my own path. My own power.

This was me last night in my artsy space. I love this photo because this is me being 100% me.

No, I definately won't win any beauty awards but I feel so good here. Wearing my sunny yellow tee, bangs pinned back and a big smile on my face.

I am back at work. It's been awhile you know. Just haven't been too inspired to actually work on my art. It sure felt good.

Background with alcohol ink. Love it!

See that vintage lady? One of my amazing readers (Maggie) sent me this (and lots of other stuff, too!!)

Then there's this one...

This background is one of my favorites. There is just something about red and blues together.

One of my latest additions to my art space...

Isn't this sweet? My Mom gave me this several Christmas's ago. It's supposed to be used for appetizers, etc. but I think it's awesome filled with all my flowers.

So many projects I'm working on. Here's a peek at my space from last night...

This bed is used for all things art! No sleeping here-LOL.

What can I say? I'm such a visual person. I enjoy seeing everything in front of me. My dream is to put a table in here and get rid of the bed.

My desk is cute but doesn't have a big enough workspace.

Remember Leanne I mentioned a bit earlier in this post? Here is a bit of her work...

Sweet magnets...

Gotta love Elsie there, too. Anybody else love Elsie? I bet her a few years back at CHA. She was so petite and darling. Love her quirky sense of style and art. It is so her!

Some finished work. Just in time for Christmas.

Another piece just for fun.

The whole thing...

It's kind of a strange image but I really loved it when I found it at the antique store.

So, yes...I am remembering that the Power does lie within me. Like I said last post...I am trying hard to listen to my heart whispers.

I love where they are taking me...

"Give to the world the best you have
and the best will come back to you."
-Madeline Bridges

Where is your heart taking you these days?

PS....I somehow managed to delete my wonderful Bird banner last week. I don't know what happened. I am working on a new one with Leanne...for now here is an old one she made me along with a funky background. Can't wait to get something fresh and new!

Heart Whispers

2011-11-11T13:12:00.001-06:00

"All I can do is act according to my

deepest instinct, and be whatever I

must be-crazy or ribald or sad or

compassionate or loving or

indifferent. That is all anybody can do."

-Katharine Butler Hathaway

Lately I've been listening.
To my husband
my children
my friends
inspirational speakers
and church leaders.

And myself.
My heart.
Trying to hear what it's telling me.

I get side tracked so easily you know.
I'll go from wanting this
to wanting that
to wanting something entirely different.

So I listen....

And I hear.
I trust what my heart is telling me.

I have a bad habit of not being patient.
Of not following through with my heart made plans.
I have this whisper
then this grand idea
and do bit here and there...

But then I just stop.
I don't follow through.

I don't follow through because I get side-tracked.
Not by TV or the internet or other stuff....
No.
I get side tracked because of someone elses dream coming true.

I compare myself to everyone.
And when they may have success at something
then I am certain that they
just took my dream away
and I get angry and sad
and I just want to say WHY can't MY dreams come true??

But then I stop.
I listen.
My heart is reminding me
that it wasn't their dream I wanted to achieve.
I have my own dream.
And while their dream is fine and all...
it's not mine.

So, I am listening.

I create my art to:
1) encourage
2) uplift
3) inspire

My greatest inspiration comes from women who need a boost.
Women who think that life can't get any better.
They sit around and beat themselves up
because they don't think they are good enough, or pretty enough or skinny enough.
They don't think they can be who they want to be.
They have lost their dreams over and over again.
It's those women that move me to create my art.

So I remember that my dreams are my dreams.
They are unique.

"Every time you don't follow your

inner guidance, you feel a loss of

energy, loss of power, a sense of

spiritual deadness."

-Shakti Gawain

Do you follower your heart? What is it saying?

PS...The fabulous Leanne, creator of the darling Anna Lee, is reworking my blog banner for me...looking forward to something fresh and new:)

YOU Inspire Me!

2011-11-08T11:06:00.000-06:00

"Surround yourself with people you can learn from.
Don't try to do it all on your own. I don't believe
I could have possible accomplished what I've
done without the help of everyone else."
-Sigrid Olsen, Fashion Designer

I am so excited to be living in a time when we can get to know creative souls from all over the world. What a blessing to have YOU in my life! Each of YOU inspire me to be a better artist, to stretch and grow my own set of wings, to become who it is I'm meant to me.

Andria from Drawing Nearer
Leanne from Chaos Comes Happiness
Art Journaler Carmen
Jennifer from A Poem Life
Beautiful Soraya
Danielle over at Her Painted Word
Christy Tomlison
My Mentor Melody Ross
The Very Crafty Alexa
Kristin from Twinkle Twinkle
Super talented Scrapper Megan
My Other Mentor Jodi

Each of these women has touched my heart and fill me with inspiration on a regular basis. They are talented, witty, silly, serious, vulnerable, spirit-filled, artsy and so much more.

THANK YOU!!!

*These are just a sample of the amazing women that inspire me.

Who inspires YOU? Please let me know!!!

I've got an Attitude!

2011-11-07T09:26:00.001-06:00

Today is the day I Bless our home.

I will take out the mop, the broom and dustpan.

The vacuum and sprays.

I will dust and pick-up and

create

a clean and peaceful environment

for my family.

"The greatest part of our

happiness or misery depends

on our dispositions

and not on our circumstances."

-Martha Washington

Gratitude Filled Heart

2011-11-04T10:23:00.003-05:00

"If, deep in our hearts,

we are grateful in proportion to

the good that is ours,

then we are sure to know a kind of

Peace and Thanksgiving that can make us

kin to all the world."

-Mary Brooks Picken, 1924

As you go throughout your weekend...

remember all their is to be grateful for.

I know there is so much going on this

world today.

Many of you may be unemployed,

have a hard time paying your bills

or on the verge of bankruptcy.

Whatever our situations I am convinced

that when we have a heart filled with gratitude

it just makes things better.

We see better, we hear better

we think better.

It's so easy to get overwhelmed...

I know.

But remember to count your blessings...

no matter how small you think they may be.

Happy Friday!

Before & After Fun

2011-11-03T11:14:00.003-05:00

My creative space has been a chaotic mess!! It had become so bad that all my desires to head down there and get to work simply vanished.

So last week I said ENOUGH!

I got to work and for the next 4 days I went through nearly EVERYTHING!!!

Boxes

and

baggies

and

baskets.

I sorted and made piles and sorted again.

I found papers and brads and stickers I hadn't seen in nearly 10 years!!

I didn't even know I still had stuff that old. Geesh...

And while it was soooo very time consuming....

it was WORTH IT!!

Here are some really messy BEFORE PHOTOS and some fabulous AFTER PHOTOS....

Markers and rub-ons and papers just randomly stuffed in baskets and bins....

Everytime I looked at this I was so overwhelmed.

I didn't even KNOW what was in here!

Books, photo albums, baskets of paper and photos

were piled in this cabinet. I didn't know what all was in here.

Same with this white cabinet. It looks innocent enough!

What made this cleaning different from all the other times

is that I actually took everything out!

I didn't just half way go through my items. I took everything out then sorted.

Yes, it took time but it was worth it!

Here is the cabinet AFTER!

All my empty mini albums, cutters and

scrapbook pages that need albums are stored here.

Kits are here. Oh, and extra paper! I didn't realize I had sooo many empty notebooks. If you ever need any scrap paper just call me:)

Other random AFTER PHOTOS...

That messy catchall cabinet now houses all my photos. It's nice knowing where they are.

That messy shelf is now home to past issues of CK, Making Memories and Simple Scrapbook magazines as well as a few idea books.

These open shelves were frightful until

I cleared them out.

Now they are home to all my empty albums....{and Ziggy}!

I made a space in one of my cabinets for extra canvas's and vintage magazine images.

Why didn't I do this sooner??

I have plenty of bookshelves now for idea books.

These are just a sample of all the STUFF

I put in 1-gallon bags to GIVE AWAY!

Every single bag went to various little girls at my church.

They LOVED them!

More photos of my cleaner space coming tomorrow...

What do you do with all your extra art supplies? Please share!

Halloween!

2011-10-31T14:50:00.004-05:00

Tonight will be the first time in 17 years

I haven't had my kids home with me on Halloween.

Em has basketball practice till 7:30

and Jacks is going out with friends.

Times sure do change...

I will be passing out Tootsie Rolls

to all the little ghosties and goblins

that come by tonight.

Looking forward to that.

Oh and our 14th Annual Harvest Dinner

at Mom's is tonight...

8 o'clock sharp.

On the menu?

pot roast

potatoes

carrots

fresh veggies with dip

pumpkin pie

apple pie

YUMMY!

Happy Halloween!

True Happiness

2011-10-28T09:32:00.003-05:00

Today's post is brought to

by the word

HAPPINESS....

Things are good.

Really, really good.

The past 2 days

{going on 3}

I have been sorting and organizing

every little thing in my craft space.

WOW! I sure do have a lot:)

Yesterday I took 3 gallon size bags

to a family that has girls.

They went nuts!!:)

And that makes me happy....


My Mom brings more to happiness to others than anyone I know.

"The habit of being uniformly considerate

toward others will bring

increased happiness to you."

-Grenville Kleiser

Royals game Fall 2011

"A multitude of small delights constitute happiness."

-Charles Baudelaire

Em in Wisconsin on the farm

"Happiness comes of the capacity to

feel deeply, to enjoy simply,

to think freely, to risk life, to be needed."

-Storm Jameson


Dave and his 87 year old Grams

"Men are made for happiness, and

anyone who is completely happy has

a right to say to himself, "I am

doing God's will on earth."

-Anton Chekhov


One of my fave Brave Art pieces

I have a show coming up November 20th.

I am sooo excited!

I also have a chance to TEACH this winter!!:)

I am being true to my art.

I am being true to my heart.

I am staying the course.

"The mere sense of living is

joy enough."

-Emily Dickinson

Linking up with Jennifer today...

What brings you happiness??

LOTS of Scrappy Goodness

2011-10-25T10:43:00.003-05:00

Ever since I found mixed media art

I have put scrapbooking on the back burner.

Now I didn't do it intentionally...

it just sorta happened.

The more I painted and collaged and put words

with old images the more addicted I became!!! LOL!

However, as fun as mixed media is

I knew I needed to be keeping a record of my family, too.

Lately I have been thinking so much about the

empty nest just 4 years away...I decided it was time

to take our memories and get them down for good!

So last weekend I packed my bags and headed to Kansas City

for a weekend of nothing but scrapping.

Here's a peek at a few of my favorite layouts.

I bought this paper nearly 3 years ago...it's Fancy Pants. Goes perfect with my Happy Emma don't you think?

Along with the retreat the Creating Keepsakes Convention happened to be in town. I have gone every year for the past 7 years...they are so fun! I found these darling papers and many of the embellishments I used throughout the weekend there.

I love this page of my Jacks and me. Where ever he is I feel home.

On this next page I used lots of flowers. Love them!

My friends teased me because the page is all about my sweet Dave and his Birthday celebration.

I think flowers go with everything. Don't you agree?

See the phrase "happy birthday to you"? Those are stamps I found at Wal-Mart for $1. I used them all weekend!

This next page just plain makes me smile!

From the photos to the embellishments.

Isn't this so cute? My favorite thing to add to my pages are words!

This is more of the Crate Paper Kit I bought at CKC. Kits make everything so easy. I am loving that banner!

The reason my girl and that sweet little munchkin on the right share a "unique friendship" is because they were both born on May 22nd:)

We take a photo of the two of them every year.

Here is another layout...

Em is 14 and Yvey is 5.

It has been fun to see the changes in both of them through the years.

Here's an 8 x 10 photo of Em playing soccer in her early days.

She has always had the sport in her blood.

My son Jackson has a passion for speech and debate.

This particular tournament he took first place in Poetry.

See these circles? They are stamps I used on white card stock then cut out and put on page. I found an entire set of these at TJ Maxx a few weeks ago for $1.49! I used them on so many layouts this weekend and just know they will had a touch of whimsy to my collages and cards.

There's another banner! Sooo cute.

I filled an entire album with plenty for another one...

If you haven't scrapped in awhile I encourage you to take some time in the next few weeks and just do it. Don't worry about making them fancy or perfect. Just pick up a kit or search through your own stash, grab a stack of photos and set aside 2 hours and get busy!

One more thing before I go...

Jackson is now a licensed driver!!

Linking up with Julia at Stamping Ground and Rook 17. Two inspirational ladies for sure!! Thank you so much for stopping by:)

Good Stuff

2011-10-24T10:16:00.003-05:00

What a wonderful weekend I had!! From Friday night through Sunday morning I scrapped 30 pages surrounded by a few friends, too much sugar and lots of laughs. It was just what I needed to get by art groove back on.

I have sooo much to share from the past week...

things I've learned
random acts of kindness
and a Brave Act that resulted in me doing a show in November!

I will share all of this goodness tomorrow.

Today is the day I Bless our Home with clean floors, shiny bathrooms and good thoughts.

If you have time today be sure and stop by my darling and very BRAVE friend Leanne's blog. Her Etsy shopped opened today and she has a very cool deal to celebrate.

Life will pass you by....

2011-10-20T10:56:00.003-05:00

Woke up feeling really, really good. Like I am right where I'm supposed to be in my life.
I am spending my days cleaning and organizing...if you read yesterday's post then you KNOW I've got lots of that to do;)

I am also thinking about the holidays, listening to Christmas tunes already. Love them so much...I can't help it! Dreaming of cooler weather, a little snow and Thanksgiving break.

You see my kids are getting older.

Yes, these kids right here...they are barely kids anymore. Before I know it Jackson will be on his Mission and Em will be in college.

Time seems to be passing me by and I am more aware of it than I've ever been in my entire life. Every trip, holiday, event that takes place I keep finding myself going..."Only 2 more before Jackson leaves on his mission." I just want to enjoy every single second of my family...all together. I know that so very soon this time will pass and it will just be Dave and Em and I.

Then just Dave and I.

We finally realize how precious our time is with our children just as they are getting ready to leave our nest. Why is that? Why is it that when their little we can't wait for them to get bigger so they aren't as much work? Then when they do get bigger all we do is wish for them to sit on our laps again or give us a big hug.

*sigh*

I know I'm not the first Mom to go through this and I won't be the last. And while my heart aches at times for memories past when my sweet little Jackson Boy and Emma Girl thought I was the center of their universe and we spent most days playing "Big Rah-Rahs" {dinosaurs} or "Tea Party"...I want to enjoy the here and now.

"Life is all memory except for the one
present moment that goes by so
quick you can hardly catch it going."
-Tennesse Williams

These precious moments are almost gone. When all my kids will be home with me. When our home is noisy and crazy and messy. All these crazy days that make up my life is what makes my house a home.

"He is blessed over all mortals who
loses no moment of the passing life."
-Henry David Thoreau

Life is good right now.
I am enjoying my kids.
I am spending time with my Mom.
I am going on dates with Dave.

I am making an effort to "lose no moment of my passing life".

I admit it...I need help!

2011-10-19T10:27:00.003-05:00

What I'm about to show is soooo embarrassing. I mean really, really....

This is the floor of my hall closet.
Can you say....GROSS?!

This is the top shelf of the hall closet. See that orange ball? It's no ball...it's an old balloon! There's also a volleyball, a dog bed, hangers and at least a dozen scarves, mittens and hats!

Then the COATS!

See how they are just crammed in there. Ridiculous!

Thank goodness I found this marvelous woman...

Kelly at Imperfect Home Making. She is currently featuring a 31 Days Organizing Extravaganza on her blog...it's just what I needed!

Yesterday was Day 2 for me. She had us clean and organize our hall closet. Thank goodness because mine was a disaster!!:)

Can you believe all the shoes? Good grief! This closet had become the dumping ground for all our shoes, sports stuff and anything else we could cram in there!

It was literally spilling out all over my floor.

So here's what I did...

I cleared out everything! At one point my husband came in the hall and just shook his head. He couldn't believe all the stuff either.

Coats....

Winter wear...

Chalk and other oddball items... {chalk, really?!}

And SHOES...oh the SHOES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oreo couldn't believe all the shoes either...

Gizmo was just plain disgusted by the whole thing...

After sorting through everything I had 1/2 bag of trash and a 1/2 bag of give away. The rest of it went in my teens' rooms, our room and the garage. Only a fraction of what was in there went back.

I had this pretty blue bin for scarves and hats.

A few shoes went back...our winter boots, Em's cowgirl boots and Dave's everyday shoes.

We have soooo many different coats but usually use the same ones over and over again. I put those back. Now we have space for guests coats. Hooray!

See stuff isn't spilling out anymore.

I took a few minutes and weeded out the coat stand, too. This whole corner is so much more inviting.

Ahhhh, it felt so good to clean that up!
All in all it took about 1 hour from start to finish.

Are you ready to get started on your own Organizing Challenge? Stop by here for Kelly's ideas.

Are you an organized person or do you need help like me?? What is one thing that is a necessity in your hall closet? Please share!

Linking up with Kelly today!!

Reinvent Myself-Slug Bug

2011-10-17T18:02:00.000-05:00

I am feeling restless.
I tend to that when I do one thing for too long.
I think I have ADD.
Seriously.

So the art show didn't happen last weekend.
It gave me lots of time to think.
It gave me time to listen to my heart.

I have been doing lots of reading and watching Oprah's Life Class. Goooood Stuff!

So, last Wednesday was my 45th Birthday.
Every year on my Birthday I set 10 goals for myself.
This year I did something a bit different and way more fun.:)

I created a two page collage of what it is I want in my life this year.

I do want to choose the good news...
focus on the positives
not the negatives.

I want to remember I am a daughter of my Heavenly Father and he loves me so very much
and He knows what's best for me.

I want to be my VERY BEST SELF.

That's me and that sweet, little bird is my truth.
She's there...and I am ready to embrace it.

I am ready for a change.

That's what I've been realizing these past few weeks...
maybe even months.

I need something different.

Day in and day out it's been the same thing. I have the same routine every single day.
I thrive on routine...but lately I'm becoming stagnant.

My WORD for 2011 is REINVENT...
so I think it's time I do just that.

REINVENT.
CHANGE.
BECOME.

I am a Brave Girl.
And like I've said dozens of time before...Brave Girls can do anything.
We're like Wonder Woman...

We are.
I am.

So here I am...thinking of ways I can REINVENT myself and add some ZING to my life.

After a heart to heart talk with the love of my life we have decided to recommit ourselves to our health.
We had both lost weight last year but are back at feeling and looking pretty squishy.
Soooooo.....
my number one goal for my 45th year of life is to focus on my eating and exercising. It really is pathetic how bad of shape I'm in at the moment.
We have also recommitted to giving up soda. We are now 3 days without one drop. We CAN do this!

Throughout this goal making process
I am really listening to myself.
Normally I would just jot a few goals down and call it good.
This year I'm taking my time.

As much as I enjoy creating
and painting and collaging...
I don't think my true purpose in life
is to focus every ounce of energy on
selling it.

My true passion is writing and connecting
and teaching.

Words
quotes
encouraging
uplifting
healing

All words I have written here stating what my passions in life are.

So, for now...
I won't be putting my energies into an art show but instead writing more, sharing more, taking photos, scrapbooking {i miss it!}, sharing stories here with you and working on my Brave Girl orders {i really LOVE creating girls for specific people!!}

I am doing Zumba, eating smaller portions, drinking nothing but water and trying lower calorie versions of our favorite foods.

Oh AND I am driving a new car!! My Birthday present...something I've wanted ever since I watched Goldie Hawn in Foul Play....

My new Bug!

I think this year may just be the best year yet;)

Do you have a WORD for this year? How are you doing? Any ideas on lo-cal foods or Zumba moves would be great, too!

By the way....We have a WINNER of the Brave Art Girl!! Random Generator spit out #7 late last night...that's....

Soraya!!! I have been reading her blog for over 1 year now!! Congrats, Soraya and thanks to everyone that entered!!

Smash 45

2011-10-13T15:00:00.005-05:00

I am an over thinker.

Especially when it comes to creating.

I envy people that can just "go with it".

They have a blank canvas before them

and they just go with it.

My Emmi is like that. She just starts working.

She doesn't plan

or obsess

or worry about colors

or any silly thing like that...

she just goes with her heart.

I want to be like that.

I want to create from my heart.

I don't want to over think.

That's why I'm doing this...

Smash 45.

I'm sure you've heard all about

the latest "Smash Book" craze.

I remember the first time I saw one these I went nuts.

That is soooo me!!!

Yesterday just happened to be my 45th Birthday:)

Sooooo, in honor of the best year of my life

I am working daily in my very own Smash Book...

Smash 45.

My book before

I want this book to be unlike anything

I've ever done.

My book with gesso on front and back

It will be filled with ticket stubs,

receipts, quotes, notes,

maps, post cards, ideas,

photos, labels...

anything that documents my day.

A pile of my fave words, quotes and images

Last weekend was spent with my Aunt and cousins.

We celebrated my Birthday on Friday...

that's where Smash 45 begins...

I included a biz card from an artist I met,

the receipt from our fancy dinner and a

images that just spoke to me.

I also included snips of memories throughout the page.

This page took me 5 minutes to glue down.

So fun and easy!!

Here's my page from yesterday...

The only piece of paper I collected was from our movie.

I should have grabbed our receipt from dinner, too.

Real Steel is wonderful, by the way!!!!

My goal with Smash 45 is

to not only document my 45th year of life

but also to discipline myself

to do something creative every

single day. I think it's a win/win.

So what about you?

Have you ever created a Smash Book?

What is your theme?

Please share!!

Oh and by the way...

this is me today....

Pretty scary, right? I don't feel good...

darn old cold.

Keep On Keeping On-{WIN}

2011-10-11T09:37:00.000-05:00

"Keep on going, and the chances

are that you will stumble on

something, perhaps when you

are least expecting it. I never heard

of anyone ever stumbling on

something sitting down."

Charles F. Kettering

So I stumbled a bit yesterday.

I'll be fine.

And I learned a lot.

And actually I am quite excited to see

what more I can accomplish

before another show

happens along.

I spent the afternoon in my space,

listening to the Brave Girls

"Restore" CD.

It's just what I needed.

Brave Art by Les

It's wonderful what happens when

you put inspiring music on

and mix with paints and canvas

and words.

The best kind of therapy I know!

This is my favorite look...rich, warm brown

with a creamy white.

I have just the perfect

little bird and verse that's going on here.

As I sat in my space,

lost in the music,

my thoughts turned to you.

How much each one of you, my readers,

my friends mean to me.

I appreciate your words of encouragement and support.

Soooooo, to say THANK YOU

I painted you a Brave Girl!!

Now I only painted one...

so really, she can only go home with

one of you...

And she really, really wants to!!

All you have to do take this sweet girl home

is answer this question...

"What do you do when

life knocks you down and you

just don't think you can go anymore...

not even one more step...

how do you lift yourself back up

and "Do it Anyway?"

Please leave your answer in the comment section.

You have until Monday, October 17th at Midnight.

I will pick a random winner and post

on my blog by Tuesday, October 18th.

Be sure and stop by tomorrow...

Smash 45 Begins....

Linking up with Rook 17 today!!

Enter here

It's a Little Bit Scary....

2011-10-10T09:40:00.000-05:00

I am feeling very scared

and

very small.

As much as I want to do this show

on Saturday...

a part of me wants to run

and find a corner

and curl up

and just

QUIT.

Oh, not my art.

Not my creating.

But putting it out there...

that is scary.

Scary, scary, scary.

These words by Leonard Zunin are really speaking to me this week...

"I believe that courage

is all too often mistakenly

seen as the absence of fear.

If you descend by rope from a cliff

and are not fearful to some degree, you

are either crazy or unaware.

Courage is seeing your fear, in a

realistic perspective, defining it,

considering alternatives and

choosing to function in spite of risks."

This week I must take

every ounce of courage and strength

in me and be

BRAVE.

"The death of fear is in

doing what you fear to do."

Sequichie Comingdeer

This week

I will overcome.

I will put my heart

and my soul into every

last detail.

I will be an example to

my kids that when you

start something

you finish.

I will teach them that no

matter what else is going on

in your life

you can make your dreams

a reality.

Despite work and family obligations...

If you are willing to give up

those things you enjoy like

TV, reading, hanging out with friends...

if you sacrifice those things

you can be a success

beyond anything you

ever imagined.

"Far away in the sunshine are

my highest aspirations.

I may not reach them, but I can look up

and see their beauty, believe

in them, and try to follow

where they lead."

Louisa May Alcott

**Due to an oversight with my email I will not be able to participate at all in this show. I am ok. I can't believe something I wanted so bad is not gonna happen...it just seems like one thing led to another and this morning was it. I have learned NEVER to trust e-mail!! I am doing this all via snail mail next year! Anyway, I am going to find some shows this spring and be better prepared and go for it! I learned so much from the shows over the weekend I attended.

Brave Art Projects

2011-10-07T09:09:00.003-05:00

I have been busy working in my artsy space...creating and dreaming and stretching myself.

Like so many of you...I adore acrylic paints...especially all the shades of blue!! This is one of my favorite backgrounds at the moment...

And see all the sheet music and book papers? A few months I scored big time...I found a 1,000 page dictionary for 50 cents and a entire bundle of sheet music for FREE!! A collage artist's dream, right??

If you've been here before then you know in the middle of my art space is a bed...which I really do like. It is perfect for all my piles and keeps my projects out in the open so I can see them. Really works out great for me.

Lately all I've been working on is backgrounds.

I take my canvas and Mod Podge down various pattern papers, shapes and other items of interest.

Then I paint over everything, leaving a few pieces to peek out...

Using doilies as a stencil is my current favorite way to add interest to my pieces. You can find paper ones in the baking aisle of craft stores...10 for less than 2 bucks!

Here's how the piece turned out...I painted a sun in the upper left side. I am either putting a Brave Girl on this or a house. I will be sure and show you the finished work.

In this background I experimented with flower chipboard pieces...

After gluing down my paper and pattern sheets I added plain chipboard flowers....

Honestly I had no idea what I was going to do with this piece...just knew I wanted to do something a bit different. I painted it a couple of days ago....

Not only am I please with the colors but I think this piece will come together. You will have to wait and see...

Here is one of my recent favorite pieces...

Not only do the birds and butterflies speak to me but these words....

They remind me that if I want to write or create or go back to college or sing or whatever then I just need to do it!!!

Everything about this piece is ME. My authentic self is here...from the images to the colors and words.

We need to remember that even when we are little girls...we are Brave Girls.

This piece means so much to me.

Remember all those wood blocks?? Here is a peak at two more.

And the one that seems to be the favorite....

I hope you have enjoyed my art today. For more artsy projects stop by Studio JRU today!!

Hello Family

2011-10-05T08:16:00.002-05:00

Sometimes you just gotta get away...

Wandering re-establishes the

original harmony which

once existed between man

and the universe.

~Anatole France

We have been going and going for months. Like so many of you...we are one busy family!! And while we see each other everyday I felt like we had lost connection with one another. There are so many distractions!! So last Friday we packed up the car and went...

Here...

Viroqua Wisconsin.
The place where Dave lived for four years.
The place where his Aunt Sue and Uncle Ray still live on the family farm.

The farm where Dave lived from 2nd to 6th grade

The views are so picturesque...so serene. It was just what we needed.

In front of the milk barn

Dave enjoyed reminiscing and sharing stories of his childhood with Jacks and Em.

We had to stop at "Dave's Tree" on the way out to the farm. This is one of Dave's favorite stories and I'm pretty sure we have heard it at least 100 times!

So the story goes like this...when Dave was little he wanted to play Little League Baseball. His parents were busy and told him the only way he could get to practices in town was to ride his bike. That was 6 miles!! That didn't stop him! Everyday in the summer he would hop on his bike and ride the 6 miles into town. This tree was where he'd stop, rest a bit and eat his peanut butter sandwhich:)

One of my kids' favorite things on the farm is the haymow...it makes me a bit nervous to tell you the truth...but they love it! I gave them a camera and here are the pics they snapped. That rope is like the one my husband and his brothers used.

Everytime we come up here the kids head straight to the haymow!

See all the hay in the air??

I personally think it's a bit too creepy...and besides it's hard for me to even get up there.

I am terribly afraid of heights!

Viroqua is such a charming small town...full of quaint shops, antiques and so much ART! Em and I spent Saturday afternoon browsing and eating home made goods from the local Amish.

Saturday night was the BIG Bash!!

Uncle Ray and Aunt Sue celebrated 40 years together!! They are such a great couple and the perfect example of what marriage should be.

We spent time catching up with family and DANCING!

Emma Girl with her Boogie Shoes on:)

Jacks getting to know his little cousins

Let's get down!

Em & her Daddy. Love this photo!

Dave with his sweet Grams!!

We danced to nearly every song!!

We danced from 8 to midnight, rarely taking a break...it was just soooo FUN!!! {and a really good workout, too}

The next morning we headed back to the farm to spend a few more precious hours with Grams and the rest of the family.

Sweet Grandma Ackman is 87 years old!!! She is a gem.

Saying goodbye was hard...but we promised to be back again real soon.

Families are the compass

that guide us.

They are the inspiration

to reach great heights,

and our comfort

when we occasionally falter.
-- Brad Henry

I needed this weekend. I needed to reconnect with my son and daughter and husband. I needed to be reminded how precious our time together is.

The happiest moments

of my life have been

the few which I have passed

at home in the bosom of my family.
-- Thomas Jefferson

What are some of your favorite ways to spend time with your family??