Cheryl's Creative Corner

Kisses

2012-01-15T23:23:00.003-05:00

This little number is from Penny Black, named Kisses. Got her in the other day and HAD to color her. I did this card for a class next month. Jeff thinks too much bling.... Everyone else is "just right". I think I see the image first then all the fluff.
It's been a long day. First church, then came home and placed an order with Cheery Lynn Designs while Jeff went to Costco. Then taught a 4 hour class, came home and fixed dinner, then a meeting. I'm tired.
Tomorrow my new couch is being delivered. I'm excited. I've never "ordered" a couch before, I always just picked one from the "floor". This one we actually ordered back in December. Then after they deliver I need to take some measurements and go get some end tables and a small chair to fit into the living room.
My class for tomorrow night was cancelled due to the fact I didn't get my samples to her in time. I've been teaching Copics at a scrapbook store. Running my store, getting my samples done takes a lot... then getting samples done for another store.... whew. BUT I get paid working for someone else. At my store... I don't get nuttin'.... except the gratification of teaching. :O)
Have a great night. Blessings til next time,
Cheryl

Long time no contact....

2011-12-28T23:27:00.004-05:00

Well it's been a busy 2 months since I posted. Drew got sick and couldn't go hunting with papa. The Landlord ended up putting in a second wall between me and the banchies. I think this one worked. I took a couple of classes... this pic is from the watercolor class. Thanksgiving, Christmas and now New Years. We are getting a new POS system for the store. It should be in place by the end of January, if everything goes according to plan. :O) I'm going to try to keep up with posting new ideas. FB took a bite out of my energy, but I'm going to be more focused for the new year... that's my resolution.

Have a great holiday weekend and I'll see ya next year!

Til then,

Cheryl

The Book is HERE!

2011-10-28T09:29:00.002-04:00

I'm picking up the book this morning. Can't wait! 52 pages of examples, patterns and instruction!! It's been a long road, but I'm glad I did it!

The landlord, to the store, filled the walls with more insulation yesterday. We'll see how it works on blocking the sound of the day care next to us.

Hunting weekend is coming up and Jeff will be gone for four days. He is taking Drew with him. This is the first trip up since his dad passed. I hope they have a good bonding weekend.

So, til next time,

Cheryl

Indian Corn

2011-10-25T20:14:00.001-04:00

As promised here is a scan of the indian corn we did. There were no tops to them so they are freehand. I colored each kernel seperately and then dotted them with the white paint pen.

Not a whole lot more to add. It was a calm day.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Jalen's Baptism

2011-10-24T23:42:00.002-04:00

Isn't he a cutie? His rosey cheeks are from one of the dogs licking his face. Kam finally figured it out after about 4 days. It would get really dry and red. This was after the baptism at my house. We had about 20-25 people at my house. They all wanted to be in my kitchen at the same time. NOT that much room in my kitchen especially when I had all 3 leaves in the table and it would seat 12!!

Took my book to the printer last week and did the final edits this weekend. This morning I took the revised copy back and I will have books by this weekend!! I'm so nervous now that I'm gonna be stuck with 100 books. lol I do have at least 10 sold, so I guess I will only be stuck with 90.

Well, I'm getting blurry eyed all of a sudden, so

Til next time,

Cheryl

Scarecrow time...

2011-10-21T09:02:00.003-04:00

I needed something for Copic Club, so I took a clip art and removed all the color. We colored him in last night in club and he turned out quite well for all of us. One person used purples for his shirt and another one used greens. It's fun to see all the different colors on the same image to make them all look different. We also did Indian corn. I'll try to post that later.

Fall is upon us now and things are really beginning to hop around here. Next month is very busy. I hope I can keep up. We have shoppe hop, a convention and Thanksgiving weekend. It should keep me so busy that I won't have time to think about all the negative that has been happening over the last 2 months, right? :O)

Jalen is getting baptised this weekend. We will have a house full. I've been cleaning gradually and Kam will be here Saturday to do some more. It's really not that bad except for my habits of keeping all the mail on the kitchen table and chopping block. The office is cluttered, but we can close the door on that one. lol

Well, til next time,

Cheryl

Little Redheaded Fairy

2011-09-24T23:34:00.002-04:00

This was another image from our pleat club. Cute little fairy. This one was a little harder since there are no scallops at the bottom of her dress to impress upon you where the pleats might go. So, wing it. This is a digital image from A Day for Daisies. I believe it was a free image, so go get yourself one. :o)

They blew insulation in the ceiling tiles at the store today to help out with the noise coming over from the karate school. I'm hoping it helps. I guess I will find out on Tuesday when the screaming banshees arrive around 3:00. God, please, let it work!

Heard about a new store opening in our area. The gal opening it is a sister to a woman who had a store a few years ago and died from crones disease. She's opening it in the same location as the first store. Kinda weird I think, but I wish her all the luck in the world. She has quite a following, but now she will have overhead.

So, that's it for now. I have a lot coming up to keep me busy.

So til next time,

Cheryl

Pleats!!

2011-09-23T00:07:00.001-04:00

Well, I did it!! Here is only of the images we did tonight in club. I worked on this one before club as my sample. I think the one I did in club is actually better. I will have to finish it in the morning.

Play with pleats.... they can be fun.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Jalen Update

2011-09-21T23:08:00.002-04:00

Jalen is now 5 months and 2 weeks old. We've been having a cool spell so he has been bundled up. He looks like such a thug here. Today Kam came by the store to prep his baptism invites. I played while she ate and designed. Then he pooped out. He went to sleep in my arms (not without a fight) for about 30 minutes. Then they had to leave. Hopefully tomorrow they will be back to finish the invites. :O)

It's been a slow week so far. Tomorrow Copic Club has 4 or 5 people coming. We're working on pleats thanks to Colleen Schaan. I haven't even practiced on a finished piece. Tomorrow that will be my priority!! If it turns out I'll post. lol

Til next time,

Cheryl

Purple Monster!

2011-09-09T22:44:00.002-04:00

Today I finished all my "blinging". Now my cards look "finished" according to Jeffrey.

This monster happens to be on one of the cards. It says, "from one monster to another".... Happy Birthday. He's from Dustin Pike.

Tomorrow I get to color and make cards. Jeff is staying home to do some convention work and I get to PLAY!! :O) Wish I was ambitious enough to clean. lol But playing is better.

Every one is sick at Kam's house and they won't go to the doctor. I would have gone with her this morning, but Jeremy took the day off and didn't want to pay the doctor. Duh... do you want to get better? I swear (repeatedly). lol

Anyway, today was a good day over all. I feel like I got so much accomplished.... even if I didn't.

Well, til next time,

Cheryl

My Babies are Sick

2011-09-08T23:26:00.002-04:00

Kam's been having problems with Jalen not wanting to nurse. So last night I asked her if maybe he had a sore throat. Today she said everyone in the house is getting sick and if Jay feels the same way as she and Jeremy does then no wonder he won't eat. So tomorrow they are going to the doctor. Poor babies.

:O(

Today I got quite a few of the new stickers up. I can't wait to color some of the poinsettias. I couldn't get all of the stickers up... as I ordered over 1,000 again. That's over 2,000 in the past month. Today I also discovered that I didn't order one particular sticker for my class. lol I don't think Jeff is going to let me order again for at least a month (maybe more). We need paper. So next week he will go to the warehouse and get it by the ream and then the following week I will head to OH to the warehouse for the bulk papers.

Feeling much better today. Sleeping in my old bed sure is helping. I do start getting my creative juices about 7 pm. So for the first half of my day.... I try.

Tomorrow I will clean up some more of my mess (creative mess) and hopefully color!! Wish me luck!

So, til next time,

Cheryl

Stupid Blog

2011-09-07T23:02:00.002-04:00

Blog is not working as it should. Either they changed the way it works and I haven't caught on yet, or it's just stupid!

So til next time,

Cheryl

The Blue Monster

2011-09-07T22:47:00.001-04:00

I've been blue for a couple of days.... but today was brighter. Although Jeff hurt his back at work I took some time out of the store to deliver paper work for the next shoppe hop. I got my orders from Canada and England.... so lots to put away tomorrow. LOTS of new stickers that I'm anxious to play with.

This little monster is from Dustin Pike. He's celebrating the "blues". lol I'm sure he's got more on his mind but he fit the cryteria today.

Oh, maybe my blues are from Jeff saying he doesn't like my cards lately. He says they needed bling. So I've been working on putting bling on approximately 50+ cards to brighten them up. They do look better. :O)

Tomorrow I get to color a little. SOTM class. Maybe I'll take time to color more than just that stamp. I have plenty to do. Oh... and I'll add bling. lol

Had a great day!

2011-09-05T23:28:00.001-04:00

I had a fun day today babysitting Jalen. I had him for about 4 hours. It was a lot for me. ;O) He did really well. I did well, too. Trying to distinguish his cries was the hardest for me. With Drew I had him all the time and I knew his cries better than Kam. But since I'm not with Jay for too long at a time I don't always know what his cries are about. Papa had a great time with him, too. He misses being with the boys as much as I am, so he treasures every moment.

Jeff went shopping for work shoes this morning. Then after the baby left we went shopping for groceries and some necessities for me. We both found some shirts and I got a dress pair of pants. I don't get to go anywhere fancy any more and don't have a lot of reasons to dress up, but a pair of black slacks are classic and I can wear them any time any where.

We spent the day very casual. Had left over ribs from last weekend and I made the squash bake (zuchinni, tomatoes and cheese). Just the two of us. It was really good just to relax before the hustle and bustle of the coming week. Our weekends go by so fast that it was good to spend another day with my hubby.

The image above is from Bugaboo. One of the many I purchased a month or so ago.

Staying home

2011-09-04T15:21:00.003-04:00

This is another image from the "challenged" stamps. I rather like it. Just color and add lines for the highlights. Works just fine.

I was hoping to go for a drive today, but the weather is too hot and I'm too tired. Tomorrow I get to babysit while dd and sil go to work. :O) See that big smile on my face?

9/11 is coming and so is the 1st anniversary of my mother's passing. I'm not sure which one will effect me more. After 9/11 2001 I went into a deep depression for 9 months. Refused to drive or go anywhere alone. Today watching a news info on the 10th anniversary it's still very fresh in my mind and tears still came to my eyes. Seems like only a year ago it happened. Weird thing is I can't remember the exact day my mother passed. I think that has to do with such a traumatic year 2010 was for me and the family.

Maybe I could curl up in the orange and purple house and look for lollipops and ice cream. It looks like a cheerful place. lol

Til next time,

Cheryl

It was a good day....

2011-08-31T23:01:00.002-04:00

Today was a good day for me. There were a couple of hiccups, but on the average... everything went well.

This image was brought to club for the "challenged". The customer thought it had too many details to be colored. When that happens you just color on top of that detail. I really enjoyed this one. It has the air of spring. We all know it's getting closer to fall, but for the next few days it's going to be full fledged summer!! HOT, HOT, HOT they say. Okay, I give in. The a/c will be on and I'm not leaving the building.

The brats next door only have 2 more days of summer camp. Good thing. I think I may go ballistic on them. The owner of the "school" either lied to the landlord or the landlord lied to me. I think it's the former. I really think they need to put in a sound proof wall. Although they may karate chop me to pieces, I will get my "teeth" into it. lol Okay... time to take my meds. Oooops, already did.

Cranky could be a word for me. I could go on about it, but let's just put it to bed. I will be better soon.

Til next time,

Cheryl

A Rose is a rose...

2011-08-29T00:48:00.007-04:00

This month in Copic Club everyone was to bring a stamp that challenged them. Two different people brought flowers. This rose is from SU! We used yellows because that is what everyone had in their collection. I finished it the next day cuz flowers have a lot of details that need attention.

It's been a while since I posted, but I haven't forgotten. I'm hooked on facebook and it gets in my way. lol I will try to post more often, here.

Today my kids came for dinner. I wish they could get along better, but I understand their dilemmas. In my next life I won't have children. I will have toys... cottage, boat, etc. I will adopt grandchildren, cuz they are so much more fun than having kids. Jalen is 4 1/2 months and is growing so fast!! Drew starts 1st grade in a couple of weeks and he is excited to get back to learning. I'm so proud of them both.

Well, tomorrow is a visit to Dr. Meisel, my knee doc, to find out the results of my MRI. Right knee is swollen again and he would like to do a temporary fix before doing a replacement. OK, I hope the visit goes well, cuz I'm really getting impatient with him.

Hope to be back in a couple days. Don't give up on me.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Shoppe Hop this weekend

2011-07-18T23:06:00.002-04:00

We are expecting 86 people this weekend. If you missed signing up, you'll have to join us in November!! It's going to be sooo much fun! Here is a sample of the necklace we will be doing in my store. Can you just imagine what the other stores will be doing?

Taking the good with the bad...

2011-07-11T23:42:00.002-04:00

OUCH! Today has been a good day and a bad day. Today, our landlord raised our rent. The good news... we'll be here another 3 years!

Thirty seven years ago, I met my husband on a blind date. Yep, 37 years. We were 15.

We didn't go rollerskating today, we both decided our knees couldn't take it, but we did go to the movies. We went to see Horrible Bosses. It was really good. We both laughed hard! Then out to dinner at Olive Garden.

This bee is from Dustin Pike. I HATE bees, but in cartoon form.... they are okay. Just don't get a real one near me! You want to see a freak out... that would be me!

Back to work tomorrow. Jeff is on vacation for 2 weeks. We celebrate our wedding anniversary this week, too. I'm glad he'll be off for that. He can take me out again. :O)

Til next time,

Cheryl

No. 2 Video Games

2011-07-08T22:38:00.002-04:00

Love these guys! My son used to (well, still does) sit in front of the TV for hours playing. Now it's just more advanced games.

Totally frustrated today. The landlord came by. Either our rent is going up or we will be forced to move. We meet again in the morning. Hope good news tomorrow night.

Linda came by the store today. She's trying to get her life back on track. She has a lot to do to make things easier on herself. I'm hoping she will rely on me for support.

Well, off to bed, early meeting.

Til next time,

Cheryl

I've been playing computer games

2011-07-07T23:47:00.002-04:00

This MM digi reflects what I do when I'm stressed. I play games. That way I have to concentrate on the game and not what is on my mind.

I have another image like this one of a different flavor. MM does that with her images. She does them in different ethnic groups. So I got a couple of this one and a couple of that one.... I like the variety.

I've got quite a few images that I now need to make into cards. Problem is I've been working on kits for the shop hop, etc. Convention is less than a month away, too. Lots to do between now and then. I shouldn't have been coloring, but it also takes my mind in a different direction.

Well, I need to get to bed. Been having a hard time doing that lately, too.

So, til next time,

Cheryl

Wish I were here

2011-07-06T23:15:00.002-04:00

I've discovered that Mo Manning images are very detailed! I guess I knew it before but today, coloring a few, it really hit me! I've need to do some male inspired images, so this is just one that I downloaded last week. I finally got time to color today.

I love dressing images. Like what color would this old man go fishing in? Are these things to really think about? I'm a nut about making the right decisions about color. Like, what color would his tackle box be? And would he use a metal pail or a plastic one? I could drive my self crazy with all those choices. lol

So, until tomorrow,

Cheryl

My first video

2011-07-06T09:27:00.002-04:00

Drew is getting better at swimming. He really thinks he's a big shot going under water. Check out Mable in the background. She loves to chase the water, so she hangs around the pool to catch every splash, squirt and drop she can. Funny dog.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Steak on the Barbie!

2011-07-06T09:21:00.003-04:00

LOL, yep, Jalen was an Australian for a day. Daddy curled up his hat the opposite way mommy had it and it was all new again. ;O) He was having a good time in the fresh air.

I took this shot on my new video camera. It also takes stills. I got some great video footage of him and his brother. Drew spent most of the day in the pool, so my videos of him are "diving" underwater.

I may just learn to put videos on my blog. Then I can drive everyone crazy with them. :O)

It's going to be a beautiful day!

Til next time,

Cheryl

Puppy Sitting

2011-07-04T23:30:00.002-04:00

I spent the day with my daughter and her family. They are puppy sitting for the weekend. Sprocket has been with them before. He's a black lab mix and the most adorable little guy. Mabel doesn't like him. Fin...well, he doesn't like any of the fosters they get.

Anywhoo, Jeremy thinks he's being abused by the fosters that have him full time. He wouldn't go to JAY for a couple of days, cried and whined when he was in the room, etc. I guess the foster mom's boyfriend wears a hat and glasses. Then JAY decided not to wear his hat yesterday and the puppy did better. Hmmmmm, Kam and Jeremy reported back to the agency regarding their suspicions. I hope he gets a good home soon.

Got a little pink today. Went swimming with Drew for about 45 minutes. We had fun. I had a hard time getting in and out of the pool. My knees didn't like the ladder. The water was great. I wish I had access to a pool all the time... one that I could get in and out of with no problems.

This puppy image is one of Dustin Pike's. He looks very mischievous doesn't he?

The holiday ends tonight and back to work tomorrow. I'm ready to take on a new week. :O)

Til next time,

Cheryl

Red White and Blue

2011-07-03T22:23:00.002-04:00

I came across this image and it reminded me of a time we took the kids to Toronto. We visited a beach and the kids climbed up on some rocks and posed for me. Although my son is now 32, I still see him as my little boy.

Today we headed up M-53 to a smokehouse that does roadside sales. Jeff and I both had beef brisket. It is such a great place to have BBQ. We stopped there a few times last year on our trips back and forth to his mother's. It's almost to Imlay, just north of Almont. There is a little country store there, too. You can find it by the BIG plastic cow out front. lol

Tomorrow we're going to go visit Kam and family. Drew will be heading for his summer visit with his dad for 2 weeks and I want to see him before he goes. They spent the weekend at home just having family time. It was good for all of them to have this time together.

In one month is the Novi convention. I'm preping and getting excited. It's the biggest show of the year for Michigan. We do average there, but the crowd gets me motivated! So much going on this month, I hope I can keep everything on track.

Have a great day!

Til next time,

Cheryl

Happy July Jalen

2011-07-02T18:27:00.002-04:00

Summertime and the livin is easy. Fish are jumpin, jumpin up and the cotton is high....... Oh your daddy's rich.... and you're momma's good looking. So hush little baby.... don't you cry.

Jalen got to go swimming today, too. I heard he really enjoyed it. How come all my grandsons look good in hats? lol

Til next time,

Cheryl

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-01T23:15:00.003-04:00

I don't have a red, white and blue image to share. This is a digi from The Stamping Boutique. It reminds me of summer so I guess it will do. :O)

The store has kicked off it's 5th Anniversary sale. I'm so excited to know we've been here for 5 years. I wondered if we would make it 5 months. I'm hoping for another 5 years.

Between Facebook, website, emails and this blog, I sometimes forget that I have neglected one or another. The blog is the one I neglect the most... I apologize. I have so many pics to share that I should/could post every day for a couple of weeks. I'll try to be more up-to-date.

Jalen is 9 days short of being 3 months old. Time sure flies. He's all giggles and coo's. He is a very happy baby...unless he's hungry.

I hope you all have a wonderful holiday weekend. Say a prayer for our troops who bless us with our freedom. And may God watch over them til they get home.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Jalen is 2 months!!

2011-06-13T23:25:00.002-04:00

Time sure is flying. I have a better pic than this, but couldn't find it tonight. Probably on my phone. ;O)

Got to spend the morning with him and his mom. He is holding his head up really good and loves to stand on his feet. Spent most of the morning cooing and blowing bubbles. Then he got tired of me. Wanted his momma. She had him asleep in minutes. Nothing like your momma's arms.

I've had a couple of interests in my cards. Hope my meetings go well and I get a couple of places to sell them. Copic are still doing really good. I can't always keep up. Already selling class for next month(July). Three have booked for August's convention class, too. Trying to get some AV help so I can teach close up on my hands. My nieces' husband will be getting back to me to see if he can help.

Well, it's off to bed. Looking forward to coloring tomorrow.

Til next time,

Cheryl

The flowers are in!

2011-06-03T09:19:00.002-04:00

Jeff got the garden in. It finally stopped raining long enough. I hope the tomatoes thrive. They were looking pretty sad the other day.

I ran out yesterday to spend the morning with Jalen. He's awake and cooing early morning so I thought I'd rush to get there to see him awake. No luck.... he was asleep. I woke him up so I could see his beautiful eyes. He's almost 2 months old. Time sure goes by fast when they are so small.

The memorial service for Stuart is tomorrow. Not looking forward to it, but I'll get to see Linda.

Then we go to a fundraising dinner for Jeff's cousin who has cancer and no insurance. She was diagnosed last year in the fall. We haven't seen her since Labor Day of last year. It will be good to see the family. The entertainment will be all the cousins. Hobie, Uncle Herb... and who knows. I told Kam we should do a duet. She's not really into it... we'll see. ;O)

Off to work. Wish my order from UK was here today, would give me something to do.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Happy Memorial Day

2011-05-30T09:11:00.002-04:00

Spring is unofficially here. The lilacs are blooming and the smell of the air is so fresh. I just wish the rain would stop long enough for Jeff to put in the garden so he can quit complaining. ;o)

We'll be spending the day with my dd and family. I bought Drew a book on how babies are born. It is very age appropriate. I hope it will answer his questions. He won't be home until late this afternoon, but I plan on being there when he gets dropped off.

Life has given us some unexpected turns again. I'm popping back but I can't say the same for everyone else. I am blessed that personally I'm doing okay. I guess I'll be the "rock" for those who need me. I can do that, :O) and with pleasure.

Need to start my spring cleaning. Not a task I enjoy...but then who does? Things are pretty messy around here right now. Working has changed my routine and so do holidays. I'm going to be off kilter all week now. An extra day off would be good. lol

Well, have a good day and enjoy this day of non-rain.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Wonderful Stickers

2011-05-13T20:59:00.004-04:00

I got these new stickers of flowers in from Starform. I love the outline stickers anyway, but decided to try coloring them with Copics. WOW I really like the results. It's like embossed without the powder! Now I'm contemplating doing a class with them. :O) I will also need to purchase more varieties. Just an excuse to explore my creativity. lol

Jeff has been sick the last couple of days. I'm still not sure the diagnosis is correct. He went to a work clinic and they told him it was a kidney infection. But the pain in his side is soooo bad it takes his breath away. Today his visited our doctor...who didn't even take an x-ray. Just said, yeah it's a kidney infection and you have a back problem. So off to the chiropractor he goes and gets an adjustment. Let's hope it's the end...but I really have my doubts.

Well, off to watch Blue Bloods season finale.

So til next time,

Cheryl

Happy Mother's Day!!

2011-05-08T07:38:00.002-04:00

Here is my beautiful momma at her 90th birthday party just a month before she went to be with daddy and our Lord. She lived a wonderfully long life and her Christianity shone through in everything she did.

This is my first year without her. I miss talking to her and hearing her voice of encouragement. She was my rock star and my cheerleader.

I will have a wonderful day knowing she is watching over me and sending me her love.

Happy Mother's Day MOM! Hope you are celebrating with our Father and my dad at a special feast with all the other angels.

The boys in my life

2011-04-29T07:46:00.002-04:00

I have lots of boys in my life. Hubby of 34 years, who celebrates his birthday tomorrow. Son of 31 years who celebrates his birthday (32) next week. Then of course my grandsons, who have a great father/stepfather. Men... a lot can be said about them. I feel blessed to have them all in my life.

My nephew's wife lost her mother two days ago to a stroke. It brought up memories of my parents. I miss them terribly. Mother's Day is coming and this will be my first year without Mom. I hadn't really thought about it, but as it nears I think about her more and more. Then there is this commercial about a woman who is turning 100 something. She is adorable and funny. She reminds me of mom every time I see it. If I live to be that old I hope to be just as cute and funny!

I got off the subject of boys, but hey... Moms are more important. ;O)

This image comes from Bugaboo. I really love these little faces. Colored with Copics of course. You can't really see all the shading in this image... but it's there. A boy and his dog. What else could he hope for.

Until next time,

Cheryl

Hoppy Easter

2011-04-20T07:52:00.002-04:00

New image from The Stamping Boutique. This little bunny just made me smile. Can't resist a bunny! lol While I'm still on a digi kick I need to color some real stamps once in a while. I got my mag from UK yesterday and it included a stamp set. The images seem so small now that I can make the digi's as large as I want. Back to old school and playing with what is given to me.
I'm having a play date this weekend and I'm so looking forward to it. We will have food, socializing, sharing and food. Did I mention food? The girls are always coming up with great tastes to share. Me... I fill in the blanks. Veggies, potatoes, etc. Everyone brings something different from the menu. We'll have fruit salad, pot roast, meatballs, soup and dessert. A Full course meal!! We'll eat all day and not get much done, but it's the camaraderie that is good for all of us.
Off to the doctor for another knee injection. Didn't get it on Monday... so today is the day.
Until next time,
Cheryl

Jalen is a Funky Kits stamp

2011-04-18T23:46:00.002-04:00

This image is from Funky Kits. It looked so much like Jalen I had to get it. Am I right? or am I right? You'd think the artist had a pic of Jalen right there when they sketched this one. Only thing is... Kam took this pic today and didn't know about the digi stamp. I guess I need to share it with her.

I've been coloring all day. First I taught a copics class then came home and started coloring new images. I've been having a good time tonight.

It was a busy day. Went to have blood drawn for a test, then to chiro to get adjusted. I made my 11 am appointment at ortho to find out they were 1-2hours behind. So I left and bought lunch for me and Shannon at 5 Guys. Then off to teach at 1 pm. Went very well, then home. Went to dinner at IHop and been coloring ever since (while I'm not playing Zuma). Castle wasn't on tonight so I watched Hawaii 5 O. Pretty good show, but missed Castle. ;O)

Good night for now. Til next time,

Cheryl

Excited

2011-04-18T08:19:00.002-04:00

Saturday I got 22 cards back from the magazine. I will be published in the Just Cards for Kids. Not sure how many of the 22 will be in the magazine, but they all had numbers on the back which means they will be published sometime. That's from the over 45 that I sent in! I got on a coloring spree and sent them all in. They have kept my cards up to 2 years before publishing them.... I've learned to be patient!

I will be spending this weekend with my kids. Happy Easter! They will come here for dinner. Drew will be with us this year, too. It will be nice to have my whole family together. I've been so blessed with a wonderful son-in-law and daughter-in-law. Now I have a new grandson and it just makes life so complete! Just need a little time to clean the house before Sunday. :O)

Bought some new images from Funky Kits last night. The new baby one is soooooo adorable. I will probably do that one first. The girls are so life like that I think the artist must draw them from someone they know. Always cute kids! And they added boys this time. Had to get those!

So have a great day. Til next time,

Cheryl

Oh what a beautiful baby....

2011-04-14T22:56:00.002-04:00

So Jalen is now 5 days old and changing every day!! So precious. Went to visit this morning and he's opening his eyes and looking around. Trying to pick up his head and cooing. I need some new pictures!! lol

I spent most of the day coloring. I have so much to get done but can't seem to get started. I need some rest.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Jalen is here!!

2011-04-11T23:45:00.003-04:00

Jalen Anthony Young. Born 4-10-11 at 2:56 am. 20 1/2" long, 7 lbs. 12 oz.

He is absolutely beautiful. The mommy and baby are home now and getting to know each other. I've spent several hours with them over the past day. Today I didn't get to see them, but I'm paying a visit in the morning before work.

Welcome to the world little one. Nanah is so proud.

Til next time,

Cheryl

BFF

2011-04-08T23:22:00.002-04:00

New images from Bugaboo!! Gotta love em! I bought 2 sets that contained 21 images. Now I have a lot to color! lol I've actually done about 12-15 so far. Can't resist those digi's!

No baby again today. She had her last test for movement. He slept through most of it. They actually jolted him to make him move. Not sure what that entailed, but it worked. I'll need to get more details on that. His heartbeat is strong they just want to make sure he doesn't run out of room.

Spent the day putting away inventory. I've gotten three good shipments this week. Lots of new 3d's, stamps and stickers. Rearranged the store a little bit to make room for the new stuff.

Convention is a month away. It will be here before I know it. Need to concentrate on getting inventory for it, too.

Early day tomorrow. WW at 8:45. Then to the store. Jeff has to work tomorrow so it's just me and Annette for the morning. I'll be teaching a make-up class in the afternoon.

So, till next time, Cheryl

Love Birds

2011-04-06T08:43:00.003-04:00

No baby yet. Kam was having contractions last night, but they subsided. She's going to walk a lot today and help them along.

This image I got from Cuddly Buddly. It's from a company called WeeStamps. I like the blue, but I think it could be in yellows, too.

Jeff has jury duty today. He left all dressed up. They have rules now about dress and security issues. He usually keeps a pen knife in his pocket and sometimes forgets to take it out. But he didn't forget this morning. I like the new rules for how long you are called. It's one day. So not bad, unless you get picked for a trial that lasts more than a day. Then you can't be called for another year. Works for me. More people are being called and they don't excuse as much since it's only a day of your time.

So, off to work I go hoping for a phone call to drag me away. Not in a hurry cuz I'll be coloring. lol

Til next time, Cheryl

So Sweet

2011-04-04T21:49:00.002-04:00

I've had Drew for the last couple of days. He went home today to help Jeremy finish the baby's room. We read books, played games and went out to lunch and dinner. He thinks he wants to be an ninjaneer when he grows up. lol

No baby yet. We keep hoping, but no go. Kam really doesn't want to be induced so she's walking and working at self inducing.

This little guy is from Cuddly Buddly. I love his little bear for security. I think I used every color of green Copic has in Ciao's to color the field. There was a LOT of greenery!!

Today I purchased quite a few images from Bugaboo digi images. Over the weekend Colleen and I got some from In Style. I'm hooked on digi's!! Not good for a stamp company's owner. lol

Til next time,

Cheryl

Friendship

2011-03-31T22:44:00.002-04:00

I have great friends. Some come, some go, but they always leave an impression behind.... some good, some bad.

I have moved on from several friends in my life. We just grew apart. I grew up and left them behind. I wouldn't be where I am today if I had kept some "so called" friends. They were venom in my life.

The friends I have now are encouraging and inspirational. They want to grow and see me grow. We compliment each other! Would I leave them... in a heartbeat if they became poison. What does that make me? Selfish? Selfish that I want to be happy? That I don't need depression and nasty people in my life? I think not. Just able to except that friends come and go and move on. Just like opportunity. When God closes one door another one opens.

Then there are the friends you have for life. Those who no matter what you have them in your life. You may not talk with them for months... or years, but they are always there to pick up where you left off. Life time friends!

Being in business I also have lots of acquaintances. People you have things in common with... get along with, but are not really "friends". Acquaintances can become friends, but most of the time they are just good acquaintances in the "friendship" kind of way.

Where am I going with this???? I'm not sure, but I want to thank all my friends and acquaintances for being there. I do treasure you all.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Baby in a Basket

2011-03-30T23:30:00.003-04:00

So today Kam had contractions. I don't think she will last 2 more weeks. I'm not sure I can last 2 more weeks. lol

Drew has off school next week for spring break. I'm going to take him a couple of days. I haven't seen him since we took the kids out to dinner for their anniversary....just before I got sick. It will be nice to spend some "Drew" time with him alone.

This is another image from Cuddly Buddly. Again, I did several colors. I like the pink and blue ones best.

I called the store in Traverse today to see if she got my package. She hadn't checked her mail yet, so she said she'd call me in the next couple of days.

I did hear from the store in Florida. She's still interested in me coming down and teaching a class. What fun it will be if we can set it up.

I have so much to share, but only so much time. :O)

Til the next time,

Cheryl

Jalen is coming!

2011-03-29T23:55:00.002-04:00

Yep, Jalen is coming. Doctor says if he's not here by the 39th week he will induce. So in 2 weeks we will have a new grandson!!

This little guy comes from Cuddly Buddly. I did several of them in different colors. Now I have to make up cards. lol Something I do after I create images these days.

Almost back to normal. I still have a cough, but everything else is gone. The cough makes it sound like I'm hacking up a lung, but it doesn't hurt or anything. Just waiting it out.

Road trip to Ohio with Linda was a good day. We got to spend quality time together and re-bond. I missed her while she was away. I'm glad she's back.

It's super late I need to go to bed. Why am I a night person? Wish I could be more of a morning person.... but nah! lol

Till next time,

Cheryl

Goodnight Sweetheart!

2011-03-24T23:41:00.002-04:00

Today was a good day. Linda opened for me and I went in about 3 so I could get ready to teach my class. It was the advanced Copic class and I had 6 people. It was a good crowd.

This little guy comes from DP. I think he was a freebie. Every week Dustin sends out a freebie. If you haven't checked them out yet... you should. Thanks to Irene for turning me on to them!!

I'm feeling like he looks, a whole lot of tired. It's late here and I should go to bed so I can get up early for my doctor's appointment for my next knee injection. Yuck.... again. ;O)

So have a good weekend.

Till next time,

Cheryl

Jester for You

2011-03-24T10:22:00.002-04:00

Yep... it's a punny. I was going to do a bunch of this image for the launch of The Paper Hollow Greeting Cards, but found myself coloring lots of other images instead. I really love this little guy and all the color I used, but now I'm afraid I won't remember which colors I used so I'm going to start over after I send this one off so it doesn't remind me of what I did. lol.

My cold had gotten better, but not a whole lot. The fever is gone, but the cough lingers. I guess it's going around. Almost my whole family has had it now. Jeremy went to the doctor and it's a virus. Wait it out. Yuck.

I've had the best of my friend help me out this week with the store. It's soo good to know when you are in a pinch they come to the rescue. Thanks so much gals for filling in for me during this time of sickness. I'm glad I can count on you to make my life easier.

Next up... Cuddly Buddy. ;O)

Til then..

Cheryl

I've fallen for Dustin Pike

2011-03-22T09:35:00.003-04:00

I love these images. I'm a cutsie person and this guy truly has my style. Over the weekend he had 52 images for $10. Got 'em, plus the bonus!! You will see more from me in the coming weeks.

Florida was GRAND! We had a wonderful time. Could have used one more day, but 5 was good, too. We visited some scrapbooking stores on Wednesday before our flight home. Learned a lot.

I'm sick today with a headache and cold. The cough is nasty. Hoping to feel better before the week is out.

Til next time,

Cheryl

It's good to be a Nanah!

2011-03-09T22:57:00.002-05:00

Jalen will be here before we know it, but until then I just have to spend time with Drew. This was last week at Kam's "Sprinkle". Short for Shower, cuz it was a little shower.

It's been a while since I posted. It's not that I haven't been busy, but I think the suicide really took a toll on Jeff and I. With all the tragedy we went through last year, I just can't understand why someone would take their own life. I guess never being in those shoes it would be hard for me to understand.

Jeff and I will be in Orlando this weekend. The first vacation in 6 years. We are soooo looking forward to getting away and being alone for a short time. We will visit some family in Florida but for the most part it will be just the two of us.

I will try to post more when we get back.

Til then,

Cheryl

Snow Again...

2011-02-20T21:15:00.003-05:00

We've only had a couple of bad snowstorms here in the Detroit area this year and they have both been in the last 2 weeks. Today it started about 2 pm. I was in the basement doing laundry and playing with Drew. Didn't even know it had started. Kam and Jeremy came to get Boo about 4:30ish and said something about the 4 inches outside. lol Didn't have the slightest.

I've had a good day. Colored some images for an order, did some laundry, went shopping, watched a couple of movies, made dinner and I'm still on the go.

This is Sammy snowman. He is one of my images. Colored with Copics (of course). I didn't think I'd get to use him this year... but ha! I guess it doesn't have to be Christmas to snow! ;O).

Tomorrow I'm teaching at a sister store. I have a full house. I'm excited to teach somewhere other than my own store. Markers are all filled and ready to play. We've already set up the next two classes for March and April. It should be fun. I hope the weather clears up a bit so I can get there on time.

Hope everyone is enjoying their day.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Why?

2011-02-16T21:03:00.003-05:00

Why does someone take their life and leave loved ones behind. It is hard enough when someone dies unexpectedly, but when someone takes their own life? I've been in depressions before when I thought it was the end of the world, but I've always relied on my Lord for comfort. He is my strength, my Savior, my Shepherd.

That being said.... Jeff lost a co-worker and friend yesterday. He found out today at work. It was a hard day for him. We've know this guy for almost 20 years. He took it really hard.

This little girl makes me ponder. What is she thinking? Is she sad? Is she thinking of you?

I'm thinking of you. Never do something permanent for a temporary situation. I can always lend an ear to those in need of talking. Please...

Til Next Time,

Cheryl

Valentines to you

2011-02-13T17:14:00.003-05:00

This is a new stamp from Snoejes. Let's play dress up!! ;O) Did her in red cuz I'm hooked on reds all of a sudden. The oval is from Marianne Designs die cutting templates and the heart background is from Crafts Too! Added bling to her neck and wrist, cuz what's dressing up without a little jewelry?

Happy Valentine's Day! Jeff and I went out last night and tomorrow we'll take Drew out for dinner. Kam is really sick with a cold... maybe bronchial. She's coughing really bad. Friday she decided to go home from work early. Jeremy surprised her with roses. Awwwwe.

Watched movies all day, today. Stayed home while Jeff went grocery shopping. I did finish the newsletter, so it hasn't been a total waste.

Have a great day!! Hugs and Hearts.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Precious and Few

2011-02-10T09:26:00.002-05:00

Thinking about spending time with Drew on Valentine's Day. Nana wants to take him out to dinner. I will have to pick him up from school on Monday and then take him home, but it's always fun to spend time with him. Precious and few are the moments I get to share with him these days. I did read in AARP's magazine that children who spend time with their grandparents, especially their grandmothers, are better kids. Less chance of drugs, violence, etc. I'm willing to do my part!!

Jalen is very active in Kam's tummy. He likes to put his feet in her ribs and push! She's having a hard time breathing and HATES this gestational diabetes thing going on, but she's managing through the stress. I wish I could help her.

This image is from Funky Kits. I could do a whole series of these girls. Maybe she'll come out with some boys? That would be cool, too. I just got the new 36 colors of Ciaos and will be coloring for the next couple of days. I really like all the 000's.

I started physical therapy yesterday. Not thrilled but doc wants me to do it. I didn't get the same therapist this time but maybe that's a good thing. I will be able to tell them "no" this time. I didn't stay for a entire hours as I had a chiro appt just down the street. It's a good excuse!!

Off to work.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Super Bowl Sunday

2011-02-06T21:52:00.004-05:00

I'm not a football fan. I've spent most of my day watching movie on FX. They have been animated flicks. I've seen most of them cuz of Drew, but they are always worth seeing again. Kung Fu Panda was just on and I love the moral to the story. Have confidence in yourself. The only secret ingredient is within.

This is another digi stamp from Funky Kits. When I finished the card I put it on a butterscotch stripe background paper. Jeff didn't like it. I thought it brought out the outline color (which in this pic looks light pink). It looked good. lol

Yesterday was a good day. Linda taught her first class in months. She needed to get back to a routine. She's in such high demand and doesn't realize her talent. One day I hope she will.

Bruce & Irene came for a visit. It started snowing just as they got to the store and everyone else must have decided to stay home. So I got to spend some time visiting with them with no interruptions. I'm sure it was a looonnnng drive for them to get home cuz my 6 miles took about 25 minutes.

Tomorrow looks like another fun day.... just for me. I need to make some stamps, but nothing else is planned. (smile)

Til next time,

Cheryl

Back to Work!

2011-02-02T23:31:00.002-05:00

The snow has come, but not as much as expected. I'm glad. My son came over today and used the snow blower and shoveled me out before his dad got home. It's not too much to ask a son to do that is it? Then he went home and cooked dinner and asked us over. Good son and daughter in law.

This is another Hillman Bear from Stampendous. I have the larger stamp of this one, but someone had brought it to the share day in the smaller size. I like it cuz it fits into the round die cut. Colored her with Copics. I got her fur a little dark, but I'm still happy with the way she turned out.

I got 3 images colored and 2 color charts finished on my day off. Nothing like working on your day off... or was it playing? :O) Since I don't consider it work, I guess it was play.

I get my stitches out on Friday. The bruising seems to have moved around to the front of my knee now. It still aches but it is not sharp or strong pain. Just a dull ache. The stitch area is itching, but I think that is due to the healing. It's not red, puffy or hot.

Back to work tomorrow. All the streets are clear. They even plowed our sub today. Hope the store parking lot is cleaned off enough for those dopes who keep parking in the handicap spot cuz they can't see the blue chair under the snow. What a bad excuse when the sign is right in front of them.

Have a great day.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Let's Build a Snowman

2011-01-31T22:28:00.003-05:00

The snow hasn't started yet, but by morning we might have 3 inches. Then the big storm will start about 7 pm. Me... I'm not really likin' it.

This is a Stampavie stamp. Cute little guy. I like the kitty. :o) Added snow marker to the tree, puffed it up and then added stickles. His hat has white flower soft.

I've been medicating since the surgery. Tonight I decided to look at all the bottles of meds and oops... I over medicated the night I was in sooooo much pain. Each bottle says something different. One: take every 4-6 hours. Two: take every 6-8 hours. Three: take every 8 hours. LOL Well... the night I was hurtin' I took 2 every 4 hours. No checkin', no not me... just give me the drugs. Well I guess that's why my speech was slurred the next morning talking to my dd. At least I know now. lol Oh, and I've only been taking Motrin during the day now and ONE Vicadin (low mg) at night.

I'm hoping to color or make cards for the next 2 days. Wish me luck the snowstorm let's me do so. :O)

Til next time,

Cheryl

Here come Jack Frost!!

2011-01-30T21:52:00.003-05:00

Oh my, the snow is coming!! We're not going to miss it this time! We are expecting 8-10 inches. Sooooo, we are having a snowday at the store and closing. Am I jumping the gun? Well if I am it will be a great day to color!! lol

This is Jack. He's one of our new stamps. I haven't introduced him to the public yet... so think of this as a preview. :O) Thank you April for all your great designs. I have some new images on order that everyone will love!! Since we live in Hockey Town... they will be very popular!! Thank you Colleen for thinking of such a great idea. Do I have your curiosity yet? Good. Stay tuned.

My knee is getting much better. It is VERY purple in places I don't think should be. So when I go for my post-op appt. on Friday I'm definitely going to ask the doc what he did and why!! I was going to have Jeff take a pic of it and I left the camera at the store Saturday. So maybe I'll have one tomorrow. Yes, tomorrow I'm going to try to get as much done as possible, since I'll be hibernating on Wednesday.

Be safe out there!!

Til Next Time,

Cheryl

Dream Catcher

2011-01-28T09:15:00.002-05:00

I colored this one yesterday. She's so wonderful with all her ruffles and layers. I have one of these catchers at my back door. Kam's friend Samantha gave it to me when we moved into this house. It's to help keep the evil spirits away. :O) The image reminded me of my catcher, so I had to have it. It's a digi stamp from Funky kits. I also used it as my id pic on Facebook. It's just me.

Knee is better this morning. I put the cold packs on it all night long. The swelling has gone down and the pain is a lot lower than yesterday. If I don't over exert myself I just might not have an elephants ankle any more. lol

The massage helped me sleep too. I woke up at 5:30 this a.m. and felt great. Decided to go back to bed at 6:30 cuz I would be a mess by 4 o'clock tonight!! Slept for another 2 hours, got up, showered and now it's time to eat.

More images to come.

Til then,

Cheryl

Valentine's comin'

2011-01-27T22:59:00.003-05:00

This is another one of the digi stamps from Funky Kits. I went on the site yesterday and found a couple more. Colored them today, with my leg in the air... but it didn't help the swelling. This one is so cute for Valentine's Day. I love her top and all the hearts.

The surgery went well, but I can't walk!! My knee is so swollen it looks like an elephants ankle! I had a massage tonight (gift from Laura). She didn't touch my knee, but it could have used a good rubbin'. I came home and iced it for about 2 hours. I wish I could wrap an ice pac around it and sleep with it. I have to go back to work tomorrow. Jeff is back to his real job and I have a class tomorrow night. I will have Linda sitting with me until Jeff gets there in the afternoon. You know... just in case I fall or my knee bursts from being so swollen. :o( Not taking many drugs tonight either. Need meds to wear off so I can drive in the morning. I've been using a walker that mom left here for me. She knew I'd need it after my surgery.

New Xpreshons catalog is done. It's on the website. Not doing any color pages this year, just the cover. I also got all my ads done for Just Cards. One less thing to worry about.

Looking forward to a new day.

Til Next Time,

Cheryl

Funky Kits

2011-01-24T23:42:00.003-05:00

Today I had 2 appointments at the dentist. One for a cleaning, the other for some fillings to save from having crowns. It was a long time in a chair with my mouth open and not speaking. lol My jaws hurt and my mouth was so numb I chewed the heck out of my cheeks. I think they hurt more than the actual fillings. I fell asleep for a short time after I got home and now I have a sore throat. Could be snoring. :O)

This image was shared from a blog friend, Collette. I liked it so much decided to visit the site of digi stamps and found three of them!! Bought all three! The site is www.funkykits.co.uk/catalog/ . They have lots of other digi stamps you can get too. I'm really getting into these digital stamps. Not sure why, but I'm thinking about doing some of mine this way, too. Sooooo much easier.

Tomorrow is my knee surgery. I'm hoping I will be back on my feet in a day or two, as the doctor said I would. I'm nervous and a little scared that it will not be so fast and easy. I have a class on Friday, so I better be able to do that at least.

I'll be back soon. Til then,

Cheryl

Shared Stamps

2011-01-21T09:32:00.002-05:00

I had a playday with some friends a couple of weeks ago and we all shared our stamps. This one comes from Irene, who doesn't remember what company it's from. She unmounted all her stamps and has the greatest filing system!! Anywhoo, we all had to stamp this one.

Colored with Copics, I made the mistake of coloring his jacket gray instead of yellow, pointed out by my dh. Eh, I like it anyway. Out of all the stamps shared, I seemed to pick out snowmen and Christmas. It's okay though, cuz I don't have these images and I love snowmen!! lol Great way to get new images to color and not have to invest in new stamps!! SHARE!

Today is Friday and my grandson will be spending the night with us. I have lots of fun when he's here, but tonight I have a class so I won't get to spend much time with him. It will be papa time.

Off to work. Til next time,

Cheryl

Happy Birthday

2011-01-19T09:13:00.003-05:00

It's gotta be some one's birthday out there. lol Actually it was my brother's b-day the other day and I forgot. Oh well. He turned 67 so I'm not sure he wants to be reminded.

This is a Dawn Stamp from the UK. There are only 4 in the series, but they are just so cute. Having so much fun coloring kids lately. I look at stamps a whole new way when I'm picking them out. Sometimes it can be repetitive.

Looking forward to a day of cold and rain. It was really slick here last night. Black ice everywhere. It was just drizzling slightly, just enough to freeze and make everything spin. I haven't been out yet, but I do have to go to work sometime this am. lol

Til next time,

Cheryl

A kiss goodnight

2011-01-18T22:22:00.003-05:00

I've been coloring a lot recently. Just got them all home to scan. I did this little girl three time in different colors. I haven't made any of the images into cards, just having fun coloring.

One more funeral may put me in the loony bin. Last night was a memorial service for my sister's husband who just passed with cancer. He was a good man. A retired minister for the Assembly of God Church. They were living in Tennessee and had plans of moving back to Michigan at the end of the month. He started Hospice a couple of weeks ago and didn't get to make the move until Sunday by funeral transport. My sister is now living in Michigan to be with her kids. It also means she is closer to me. I'm hoping to regain a sisterly relationship with her. She's 15 years my senior, but we've always been pretty close. I remember spending weeks with her on summer vacations at the various places she lived. Last nights eulogy by Steve's brother stated they moved 32+ times in their 48 year marriage. I can remember most of those homes, but not all.

MIL has now moved home permanently. So they say. I doubt she will come back here if she has to move in with someone again. I had a meeting with the brain doctor, therapist and case worker, yesterday, after mom's visit. They know she still needs help but is refusing it. The head injury is also distorting her ability to recognize what I do for her and diminishes what Jeff does for her. Chris seems to be her "golden child" and always will be. The doctors don't expect that will ever change.

So, I'm starting a new stage of my life with a bright note.... Jeff and I are booked for a vacation to Florida in March!! It's the first vacation in over 4 years. We are both really excited.

Til next time,

Cheryl

My Sweet Kitty

2011-01-11T23:13:00.002-05:00

Sarah Kay to the rescue. I've been missing having an animal around. I find signs of my kitties past around the house sometimes and wish I wasn't so allergic. One day I will get a hairless cat and hope it's not the saliva that I'm allergic to. :O)

I started with this image's hair, then onto her jeans when I then asked myself.... "what color goes with magenta?". Called my dd and she went through her closet till she came up with teal. Duh. I should have known that, teal being one of my favs. But I don't wear magenta. So thanks to my lovely daughter for her color sense.

The backgrounds are two recycled cards. One I made, the other from a card my mom gave me way back. They just seem to go together. Sorry for the smooshed flowers. Putting them on a flat bed I can't see how they are laying til I'm done and then I really don't care. lol

Hump day tomorrow. It's snowing outside and we have about 4-5 inches so far. I'd love to stay home and have a snow day, but that's not going to happen. I need to get out and away from the chronic complainer. Yes, she's back for therapy. Next week we see the brain doctor to see if she can get a therapist up by her house. Then I can stop complaining!!

Lots of new toys in the store this week. I'm hoping to play tomorrow when NO ONE will be out and coming to see me.

Til next time,

Cheryl

On the Prowl

2011-01-05T23:26:00.003-05:00

This is an old stamp that I dug out of my stash. Jeff keeps saying it looks like a tiger. It's a mountain lion! I guess my colors could be a little off, but hey! Anywhoo, it's mounted on a recycled background from an old card I made. Looks like she's in the jungle! ;O)

MIL left today for the weekend. Whew. I love my quiet time!

Took the Christmas tree out of the window tonight. Now it's time to undecorated it and put it all away. We put it up so late this year, it could stay up for another week as far as I'm concerned. But we look a little weird from the outside. lol

Looking forward to the weekend. Having some friends over for a play date. It will be a nice change.

Till next time,

Cheryl

On the Prowl

2011-01-05T23:26:00.000-05:00

This is an old stamp that I dug out of my stash. Jeff keeps saying it looks like a tiger. It's a mou

Recycle number 3

2011-01-02T22:05:00.003-05:00

Here is an oldie... Paper piercing. I cut out the middle and made it a frame for this bear. Added the gem stones, ribbon and butterfly to complete!

WE ARE DONE with inventory!! 6 hours today to finish up. I had a headache, so Jeff did most of it. Went to dinner at Ihop. It's fastly becoming my favorite restaurant. I love having eggs and hash browns for dinner. ;o) I need to start counting points tomorrow, though. Weigh in next Saturday.

Tomorrow MIL comes in for a couple of days. I wish she could have skipped this week. I could use the rest. Therapy will last for at least another month. Oh goodie. I am going to have a good day though. I'm picking Drew up from school and spending some time with him. He's been at daddy's since Christmas eve and I've missed him. He called before he went to bed tonight to say "hi" and see ya tomorrow. :O) It may only be a couple of hours, but it's Nanah time!! Yippee! I may have to take him to dinner at my fav restaurant. He likes pancakes. lol

Well til next time,

Cheryl

Recycling

2011-01-01T09:03:00.002-05:00

Here is another recycled background. I made this one as a card about 3-4 years ago to show off our new stamps and in a beginner class. Oh how much I have evolved. lol

I love these Stampendous Hillman bears. I have several. Never used them much til now. Somehow Copics make me look at stamps in a new way. ;o)

Recruiting help for inventory so we can get it done faster. Hoping my dd and sil will help out. I'm off to count.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Recycle

2010-12-31T23:34:00.003-05:00

I went through some old cards as I was cleaning (see last post) and found these really cool backgrounds from old cards I made and from store bought. I've used them in my creations of late, along with Stampendous' Hillman bear collection. Here is the first one. The background is from an old Ambassador Greetings card and the bow, too.

Bears are colored with Copics.

We got started on inventory today. Hope we can get it done tomorrow. Two days is enough!! Laura will be coming to help. Hope it makes it go faster. ;O)

Til next time,

Cheryl

Happy New Year!!

2010-12-30T23:03:00.002-05:00

Everyone has been asking me, "what have you been up to?" LOL, well not much and a whole lot.

Things here at home are an ever changing world. I just try to keep up.

Christmas was wonderful. Didn't seem to be as much drama or tenseness around the house. I have an opinion about that, but will keep it to myself. ;O) I got wonderful presents from my family. Most....unexpected! They were very generous.

These two cards are using some Penny Black stickers that I got in a couple months ago. I really liked them. Again, there was one in the bunch that no one had picked up...so I made samples and they are moving. I hate to make samples out of everything, but I guess that's part of my job. lol

Tomorrow is the start of inventory. Then back to creating!! We've been working hard around the store moving furniture and cleaning. Well, Jeff moves the furniture and I clean up my mess. It's an equal endeavor. Just takes me longer.

Have a wonderful new years day and a blessed year!

Til next time,

Cheryl

Thank Heaven for little Boys

2010-12-10T08:16:00.002-05:00

Since dd is prego with a little boy, I thought this was perfect for the upcoming event. She's due in April. I remember when she was little and put underwear on her head. lol

This is a stamp from Stampavie. It's called Sumpin's Wrong. I did three of them as little boys, but I need to do a couple of little girls, so I will change colors to pink.

Life in general is going good. The holiday season seems to bring out the good and bad in everyone. I'm concentrating on the good!!

Blessings. Til next time,

Cheryl

A Spoonful of TLC

2010-12-08T23:04:00.002-05:00

I got a spoonful of TLC last week. Several customer/friends stopped in to say "Hi" and give me hugs. It was a good week.

This is one of the new Stampavie stamps by Sarah Kay I got in last week. I picked out several for myself. This one just looked like it needed red hair. Colleen and I came up with the perfect combo of colors. ;O)

Drew is having his tonsils and adenoids out next week and new tubes in his ears. He's been sick 8 times since June. He has no idea what he's up for, but Nana will be there to comfort him.

Til next time,

Cheryl

A Shining Star

2010-11-29T19:26:00.002-05:00

We were in court today for the sentencing. He got 4-15 years. It's a relief to finally be over.
.
So we start anew with a shining star of hope. These bears are from Stampavie. Not a whole lot of color, but lots of stickles on the snow. :o)
.
Emotional day. Need some rest.
Til next time,
Cheryl

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T22:23:00.003-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone. My finger is healing faster than I thought. Which is a good thing! I can type and tomorrow I plan on playing with my Copics!! I've done some cleaning at the store and have more to put away, but I'm going to fit some coloring into my day somehow!
.
Today was a great day with my kids, their spouses and my grandson and grandpuppy. My son and dil can't go anywhere without "Titus" the big dog. lol He's actually a Boston Terrier and just the cutest! I'm not a dog person, but when you have grandpuppies you must become a dog lover. ;O) I have 2 on my daughter's side, too. Mabel and Finnegan. I can't forget them! They came with the marriage. lol They are good dogs, too, and like me. I'm not afraid of them any more and when I see them they do not bark at me. Again... that's a good thing.
.
I got a whole bunch of new stamps in the other day so I'm looking forward to playing with them. I'll post when I can.
Til the next time,
Cheryl

Russian Girl

2010-11-19T21:41:00.002-05:00

So here are two more of the Snoejes images. I call her Russian girl cuz that's what she reminds me of. I used one of the new Snow Markers on the tree behind her and at her feet. I got them last weekend and they are great. Kinda like liquid applique watered down in a pen. They are both made by Uchida so it's probably the same product in different packaging.

So guess what... My MIL moved out this morning. Packed all her bags and baggage and was gone when I got up. Didn't say a word, didn't leave a note, didn't even tell her son. Nice way to make an exit. Doesn't bother me cuz it's her anger that will destroy her relationship with her son. It's so nice and quiet. Will give me more time to play. :O)

I still need to get the last of the 4 images done. Tomorrow is the last day of the Shop Hop. I'm hoping to play before Tuesday's hand surgery, cuz I won't get to play for quite a while once that is done.

Hope everyone has a good night,

Cheryl

Snoejes

2010-11-19T08:35:00.003-05:00

Here is the little boy image. It's the first time I have used warm grays for coloring anything but ground shadows. I used it on his boots. I really like the brown effect. Tried a new background, too. Dots. I've seen it done on other blogs, but it's the first time I've done it. Didn't turn out exactly the way I wanted, but with Ciao's this is the lightest I could get it.

Today starts the Shop Hop. I'm excited. 69 people signed up. I finally got my ideas and kits done yesterday. Nothing like waiting till the last minute. Annette helped me put them all together. I couldn't have done it without her.

Another thing I couldn't have done without her is go to my daughter's ultrasound. I had Annette open the store and I got to spend a half hour in a small room with 6 people looking at a screen, hearing the heart beat and finding out it's a BOY!! She really wanted another boy. It's the first boy on Jeremy's side. He has 3 nieces. His mom cried. It's the first ultrasound she's attended and she was sooooo excited. I'm glad my daughter loves her mother-in-law and she's easy to get along with....

Til Next Time,

Cheryl

New Stamps from England

2010-11-17T22:18:00.003-05:00

So, I got these new stamps in the store and no one has bought them. I thought they were cute.... so I finally decided to stamp them and color them myself, and guess what... everyone likes them, now.

I colored each image twice just so I could keep one for myself as I will be putting them on finished cards and sending them in to the magazine.

I can't decide which image is my favorite, but you can decide after I post them all which ones you like best. ;O)

On a personal note... My MIL and I have been disagreeing lately. Nothing new really, just tired of it all. So as of today she will be able to live on her own. She will be moving back to her house next week, I believe. Don't really know as she's not talking to me or Jeff much. She had a doctor's appointment today and she convinced them all she would be fine and can do this on her own. What she doesn't know is I called her case worker and it was planned to make her think it was all her idea. :O) Is she ready to be alone? Not really, but we'll let her try it out and if it doesn't work out then new plans will have to be made. It's better for a trial run then have someone in my house that is totally against everything I do and say. I'm looking forward to running around the house in my lingerie. lol

Till next time,

Cheryl

Birch Run Convention

2010-11-13T22:01:00.002-05:00

It was a good day!! Here is Laura demo'ing 3D's to the crowd.

Only 4 hours tomorrow, then break down. I'm already tired. lol

Til next time,

Cheryl

LIfe goes on

2010-10-30T07:13:00.003-04:00

It's official...I have a blinkie!! lol I love it cuz it's purple! So is my certificate, which is hanging on the wall at the store. Fits right in!

Well court went as expected. He plead guilty and will be sentenced on November 29. He will get prison time, we just don't know how much. The max for dad is 15 years and the max for mom is 5 years. The judge is pretty lenient so because this is his first offense he will probably get the minimum. He is still walking around getting his life in order, but they denied his request to drive back and forth to work. Getting his life in order... it's ironic. He has no idea what we have had to endure for the last 6 months. He should have had to spend some of it in jail.

Speaking of our life.... Mom got news that she "might" be released from therapy and care. Which means she can move back home. She's not getting her hopes up since she's been let down a couple of times. But I'm looking at it as a positive. ;O) She's been busy around the house keeping the dishes up, cleaning etc. She cooks us dinner almost every night she is here. It's definitely NOT weight watchers! I've put on about 10 pounds since the accident (stress, junk food, comfort foods, etc.). She likes to over salt, but at least it is dinner done when we get home from the store.

I'm due at PT in half an hour.

Till next time,

Cheryl

Fruitfull Day

2010-10-24T23:06:00.002-04:00

Today was a BIG day for me, I joined Facebook. It took a lot for me to do it, but I gave in. Now I just need lessons from my dd to figure it all out.

We also celebrated dd's birthday today. Now I'm not saying I'm getting old... but it's hard to pull off 29 when your baby is 30!! lol

I finished this card yesterday. You can't see the glossy highlights I added to the fruit, but it's there. Jeff thought it was a little dark, but I like it.

Tomorrow is court so I should get some rest.

Until the next time,

Cheryl

Home from Chicago!!

2010-10-23T19:29:00.003-04:00

Hi All,

This weekend was so much fun in Chicago! I got around by train, by myself and I'm so proud. lol I was scared, but the train was full so I didn't have much to worry about. I learned that all the "trains" are "L" trains not just the Loop. Well, except for the express trains that go outside the city. Duh!

I met some wonderful people over the weekend, too! Now I can put some faces to the names I see online and around. Of course Marianne is my favorite. :O) I love the way she teaches with such enthusiasm! She gets off track easily, but she means well.

Also met a gal from Chicago area, Collette. We're going to be great email buddies. Judy, whom I also sat with, is from White Lake. Funny I have to go 5 hours from home to meet someone who's only 45 minutes away. lol We three had lunch and dinner together. Splurged for dinner at a place called Lawry's The Prime Rib. I won't tell you how much it cost, but if you want to treat yourself if you are ever in Chicago... go to Lawry's on E. Ontario St. AWESOME!! But there are lots of great restaurants in Chicago. So stay for a week or so and go to Harry Carey's. It's the bomb! Jeff and I went several years ago and I would love to go back... but there wasn't enough time this trip.

I colored this fairy before I went to Chicago (Intermediate Copic Certification). Then when I got home today I added shadows that we learned there. Again... Duh! I'm not sure I will shadow everything, but at least I know what to do and what to look for now. I also changed the color of the leaf of the flower. I had it too light and it is shadowed by the flower... taduh! lol

I'm excited to teach my first Intermediate class next weekend. Hope I don't bomb!

Tomorrow we are going to my daughter's birthday party. She turned 30 (23 according to her) last Wednesday so we are going to a bbq at their house. I had to stop by and see her on my way home this morning. She's really beginning to pop. She'll be having an ultrasound within the next couple of weeks to find out the gender of the baby. She's not sure if she'll be sharing it with everyone yet or not.

Well, that's my story and I'm sticking to it.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Happy Sweetest Day

2010-10-16T08:12:00.003-04:00

Isn't she sweet? One of Penny Black's hedgehogs that I love to color. I've done her in Copics and Magic Pencils quite a few times. She's ready to go shopping in her running shoes with backpack hanging off her shoulder.

Colleen came to the store yesterday for a play date. We opened some of the new stamps and played for a couple of hours. Time flew by and she had to leave, but it was fun while it lasted.

She brought by some digi images. I'm having a problem getting them to print sharply. My images are blurry and not nice. Hers were great. She has a different program than I do, so they printed better. If someone can tell me how to print them without them being so digitized... lmk!

Jeff and I usually go out to eat on Saturday nights since it's just the two of us and we both work all day. BUT, today is Sweetest Day and I'm positive all the restaurants will be packed! So we've opted for Chicken Shack. lol Not exactly "romantic" but we do not like to wait in lines for dinner. So chicken it is. They have the best coleslaw anyway!

Have a GREAT weekend. It looks beautiful out there right now, sun is shining, temp is brisk.

Til next time,

Cheryl

Having Fun Here

2010-10-13T22:07:00.002-04:00

Here she is... that cute little girl in the big hat. Another Morehead stamp that I played with over the weekend. My MIL picked out the colors.

Sorry the flowers got a little smooshed. I didn't notice until it was done scanning. After I got done coloring all my images I went to "MY" stamp room (or should I say what is left of it) in the basement and raided my paper stash to find a 6 inch stack of background papers. I matched up all my images to some of my favorite papers and finished my cards. I still have a few to finish, but at least I'm working on something. :O)

I've been busy at the store the last couple of days. Not only playing with making/finishing my cards, but lots of visitors, too. Lots of new items are in and I've been putting them away and finding places for them.

Today I broke one of the glass plates to the stamp machine. It put me behind, but Jeff saved the day by getting me a new plate from a local glass store. I'm back in business! Whew!

Lastly, I booked my hotel in Chicago for my trip next week. I'm so excited to go to the Intermediate Copic Certification Class. I wish someone I knew was going with me, but maybe I'll make some new acquaintances there. :o). I can't wait to share all the information I hope to learn, too.

Happy hump day. Til next time,

Cheryl

Played all weekend

2010-10-12T20:49:00.003-04:00

This past weekend I brought home all my Copics and stamped images and played all day Sunday and most of Monday. It was great getting to play!
.
Here is another image I will be using in my advanced Copic class. It's from the Dawn collection. The flower imageis from Penny Black and the words are from Flower Soft.
.
Just when I think things are getting better and I'm on an uphill swing... the phone rings. They found a mass in my right breast, again. This is not the first time. The doctor followed it for about 5 years and about 2 years ago it either faded or disappeared. Well it's back. The tech wouldn't tell me anything and I have to go in for a rescan and ultrasound. That will be Monday evening. Hopefully I will learn more but not till Dr. White gets the report. I'm being a lot more patient this time than I was the last time!
.
Monday, I spent the morning and early afternoon with my dd. It's been a long time since just the two of us had a day out. We went to Babies R Us and I bought her a couple of pairs of pants and then we went to lunch. I miss those days.
.
Anywhoo, until next time.
Cheryl

Working with Copics

2010-10-08T23:21:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

Here is a Morehead stamp, Little Cowboy, that I will be using in my upcoming advanced Copic classes. He is just adorable!! I have a little girl with a big hat that I will be using as well.

This is the first I've been able to play for myself since Suzanne was here. It shows that I learned some stuff from her. :O)

I made 100 cards last week for Beth. She's our calligrapher and she'll be adding her elegant writing to the cards and selling them at some craft shows that are coming up next month.... Yeah, I made them for someone else, but it was definitely a good way to get motivated and get some creative juices flowing.

Over the last couple of days I've heard some comments on Suzanne's Classes. If you attended her classes and would like to comment on them... please send me an email or give me a call. I'd like to hear the feedback.

Well, I hope to post the little girl soon!

Have a GREAT weekend,

Cheryl

Honeymooners

2010-09-20T16:39:00.002-04:00

Here is my son and his new bride in Mexico. They took a late honeymoon this summer due to her being a teacher. Don't they just glow?
.
Mom passed last Tuesday. The funeral was in Missouri Saturday. We got home Sunday around 11 am.
.
Till next time,
Cheryl

Saying Goodbyes

2010-09-07T20:45:00.002-04:00

I don't know what's harder.... having someone ripped from your life unexpectedly, or having someone call you to say goodbye?
They will be taking my mother off all life support medications tonight by her wishes and she will have anywhere from 3-10 days. She called tonight to say goodbye before she can't talk any more and doesn't know what is going on around her.
Please pray that God doesn't let her suffer too long and takes her home to be with my dad.
Thanks for all your prayers and well wishes.
Cheryl

You're a doll

2010-09-07T09:21:00.002-04:00

These Victorian stickers have been a big hit! I've used them in a make-n-take at convention, in classes and on display boards. Also, accented with border and corner stickers on brown marble paper... nice. :o)

This weekend was good. We had a reunion on Sunday with Jeff's mom's side of the family. About 35 people in all. Not too big. Nobody we hadn't seen in a while, but it's still nice to get together with family now and again for something other than a funeral.

We had Drew for the day and then yesterday. Today he started school. Only for an hour (seems like a waste of time), but tomorrow for a full day. Full day kindergarten. Wow, where was that when my kids were that age?

Everyone started school today. Cortney back to teaching, Tony to a full schedule. He actually started last week, but this will be his first FULL week. He's having to travel all over for his classes. Doesn't make him too happy, but he's fighting to succeed this time around.

My mother is not doing too good. Her kidneys and liver have shut down. Looks like a matter of days, but you never know. It's in God's hands.

Have a great day!! Until the next time,

Cheryl

GOOD NEWS!!

2010-09-02T23:07:00.003-04:00

Well it's official.... I got into the Intermediate Copic Certification class. I'm so excited. I had to "apply" for it and wait to hear if I had been accepted!! It is the first one ever held and I made it!

It will be in Chicago in October. Since Delta screwed up my trip to Texas, this flight is on their dime. :O) Did I mention how excited I am? This is good news to drown all the drama going on in my "real" life. A fantasy come true!

I wish I had done some Copic coloring... but not today.

Here is another Sarah K 3D from the UK. When will I ever get tired of making these things?? NEVER, I hope. They are just too much fun.

Can't wait to share more good news with you soon.

Till then,

Cheryl

Victorian Style

2010-09-02T09:13:00.002-04:00

This card was so easy. The stickers sold out at convention and I really need to order more!! I changed the die to cut the circles on the left side of the card instead of on the right and that left plenty of room to write on the inside of the card.

Martha Stewart punch done on a 1 1/2" strip of paper makes the perfect lacey layer. Add ribbon and buttons and tada.... it's done.

Life has been going "full force". I'm waiting to hear about several events that are coming up and having trouble being patient about some of them. Some good... some not so good. Cross your fingers for all the good!

NEW things have been ordered for the store, so if you get a chance to come in and see them, please do. They should be in late next week. New 3D's, new border stickers, etc. It will be exciting to see all the new stuff.

Till next time,

Cheryl

Morehead Stamps

2010-08-28T22:37:00.002-04:00

Isn't she just the cutest? This is one of the new Morehead stamps I have in the store. I only have 5 sets right now, but there are LOTS more to order.

She is colored with pencils and mineral spirits, accented with a multiliner, Martha punch and pearls.

Have a great day!!

Cheryl

New Mexico

2010-08-27T23:26:00.003-04:00

Here is Jeff and Drew outside Carlsbad Caverns. You can't see the opening to the cave, but it's right behind Drew. It's called the "Bat Cave" since this is where thousands of bats hang out during the day and do a flight at night. We didn't stay for that.
.
A storm was brewing as you can see in the cloud picture. It was really cool to see it off in the distance at eye level. We were at the top of the mountian... I realize we weren't eye level, but you could just look out from the mountain top and it looked eye level. :O)
.
The other picture is of cactus. My dd, Kammi, had to take lots of pictures of the cacti. She'd never seen them in their natural habitat.... I don't recall ever seeing them myself.
.
It was a fun day trip, just the 4 of us. It would have been nice if my SIL, DIL and DS could have joined us... but they had to work. Maybe someday I'll be able to afford to take them all on a vacation.
.
I've been working on cards so you should be seeing them very soon!!
Until then,
Cheryl

My Time Is Not My Own

2010-08-18T16:50:00.004-04:00

It's been 2 months since I've posted and believe me it's been a short 2 months for some things and a LONG 2 months for others!!
.
Mom is still living with us and she is doing very well. She is now out of her walking cast and can walk without her cane if she chooses. The doctor has given her the option. Her therapy is going well. Her short term memory is still not so great, but we are getting through it.
.
Take one day at a time.
.
The store has been busy. We had a shop hop last month and so glad we did. It's so good to see everyone and to concentrate on something else. The Heirloom convention was a couple of weeks ago and it went VERY well. We were thrilled to sell out of so many things. Getting new stuff this week is like Christmas!!
.
We also took a trip to Texas for my mom's 90th birthday!! The plane trip was a disaster, but visiting with family was better than expected. Mom looks good and may last another 90 years. lol She hopes not (her words). While we were there we took a road trip to Carlsbad, NM to the caverns. It was nice to spend a day with my dd, grandson and hubby. Felt like old times.
.
Will post some pictures soon.... I promise!
.
Cheryl

Take time to smell the flowers

2010-06-28T08:23:00.003-04:00

Things are looking up!! Mom moved in with us last week and she is doing very well. She's getting around with her walker doing 98% of everything for herself. We need to monitor her medications and help her with some duties, but otherwise she is doing great!! It will be another 2 months before she may get to move home to her house, but we are okay with however long she needs to heal. Thank you to everyone who sent cards!! She was the hit of the floor with the most mail received!!
.
These great flowers are part of mom's flower garden. My daughter took this picture June 13 when everything was in bloom. We went to the house yesterday and a nest of robins had hatched on her front porch. Mommy, Daddy and two babies were all in the nest. Mommy and Daddy flew away when we were peering at them from inside the living room. Little heads would pop up once in a while and we think there were only two, but there could have been three.
.
I've been getting back to designing and plan on posting some of my cards soon. Don't give up on me. I'm trying to get into a routine.... it's not easy when your life changes so dramatically and you don't know which way to turn next. Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers.
.
Until next time,
Cheryl

Flag Day

2010-05-21T09:20:00.006-04:00

June 14th is Flag Day. It's coming up fast, as well as July 4th. This is one of our new designs for 2010 (ap's), called Uncle Sam. He's also our stamp of the month for June. How appropriate for both holidays.
.
I love red, white and blue. I love the country I live in and the freedoms it allows me to express myself. I don't like all the comforts it allows illegal aliens, but that's another soap box.
.
Both my brothers were in the service, one for 3 years the other for 25. It always made me proud to see my big bro in his uniform.
.
Jeff's dad was an Army veteran, Koren War. I designed his memorial folder which included an American flag in the background. Two soldiers were in attendance at the funeral for a military send off. They played "Taps", presented the flag to my Mother-in-Law and saluted him. It was very touching, but a very proud moment, also.
.
I'm trying to get back on track with posting and making cards. It's hard. I'm also babysitting everyday, as my dd and sil both got jobs and are working lots of hours. It's okay, I love spending time with Drew. Since they moved out I've missed it. I just need to get a routine going.
.
Have a great weekend.
Cheryl

Farewell Dad

2010-05-12T18:16:00.003-04:00

As most of you know my father in law was killed last week in a car accident and my mother in law is still hospitalized with injuries. Today arrangements were made for her to move to a medical facility for physical therapy, in patient care.

We had the funeral on Monday and mom was able to attend for a short time. She is improving every day!

Thank you to everyone who has sent cards, well wishes, condolences and prayers. Please remember us in your prayers as we continue this journey in the court system.

For now,

Cheryl

The Album is Done

2010-05-01T14:02:00.003-04:00

My hand is still in stitches, so I'm typing with my middle finger and index finger.

Here is the last pic from the wedding. Instead of having a big cake they had cake balls. It went with the whole "sphere" theme of the wedding. They were dipped in chocolate and brushed with pearl powder. They were filled with cake mixed with mousse, chocolate & raspberry and white & chocolate ( if I remember right). Kam made her cake people toppers. One for Drew, too.

Hope to have my hand back next week. I get the stitches out on Friday. I have classes before that, so I hope it doesn't hinder me teaching!!

Have a good weekend!

Cheryl

Today is Tuesday....

2010-04-27T08:41:00.004-04:00

Remember that song? Everyday had something different to do? Well today I'm having surgery on my left hand. I don't know what the recovery time will be, so I may not post for a few days.

I went to Akron on Sunday to the "Adventures in Stamping" convention. It was fun to get away for a day. Linda went with me and we had a great time. It's been a while since she and I have had time to ourselves just to be "friends". We talked and talked... like girlfriends do. It was good to have "me" time with a friend.

So anyway, the convention was great! Jeff gave me a budget, which I went over. lol Always do. But got some great new stuff for the store. It won't be out until Wednesday or Thursday when I get back to put it out. I got some new outline stickers and some new stickers that are sticky on both sides to create your own glitter, flock, etc. designs. They are by Clearsnap. I hadn't seen them before so of course I wanted them all. That's how I went over budget. I didn't get them all but I did get 5 or 6 different kinds. I also made contact with the promoter and think I would love to do that convention next year. I'm branching out!!

This little 3d is one I did about a month ago. It reminds me of a time when my uncle had an English Sheepdog and I visited. I was afraid of dogs (having been bitten when very young) and he, my uncle, gave me a newspaper to hold incase I needed to defend myself. lol Yeah, I was like 4 or 5 and a newspaper would never have worked, but I didn't know that, then. Anywhooo, I think this is so cute the way this little boy loves his dog and he is just enveloped in his fur like a hug.

Hugs to you. See you soon,

Cheryl

Kammi & Jeremy's Wedding Pics

2010-04-23T21:47:00.007-04:00

Here are some of my dd's wedding pictures. I haven't gotten the disc yet, just a few of the pics via email.

The second picture is our "whole" family. We've grown by 2 in the last 5 months. WOW, I survived 2 weddings. lol The third picture is of us walking out of the Chapel. Drew had to hold my hand and Julia was holding his. We did good.

The last one is a mommy/daughter picture. I edited out my hips, but I couldn't get rid of the double chin. I'm working on that.

Give me a couple of weeks and I'll have an album in the store. ;o)

Have a great weekend!

Cheryl

A Rose is a Rose

2010-04-22T21:57:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow is my birthday and I'm feeling kinda odd. Not really sure how I'm feeling. It's not a major birthday, it's another year added on. Is it my birthday or is it my daughter growing up? I had to just hug her today. She's going to be 30 this year and I don't feel 30, so how can she be 30? Odd is the only way to explain it. I'm dealing with so many changes right now it's overwhelming. The last 21 years seem to have just flown by. I plan on taking the next 21 one day at a time and enjoy each one.

This is "April" Rose. It looks good in several mediums, but this one is done in pencils and spirits. Of course it's accented with stickers and embossed background. Simple, yet elegant.

Enjoy the moment,

Cheryl