the beautiful ordinary

My 2012 DIY List

2012-01-26T20:51:00.002-07:00

I have so many projects that I really want to do... and that was before Pinterest came into my life. The list gets bigger and bigger every day but unfortunately time is not on my side. Or perhaps it's that I waste what little time I do have, honestly that is probably more the case. I love the satisfaction I get when I finish a project & when I save the money making something myself. I also love to share ideas and how to's so I thought that if I shared my projects here that I may be more likely to complete them and share with you.
Here's my current list of "want to do's", I'm sure I'll edit and add as the days go by but for now this is what is bouncing around my head.... it's a very busy head with lofty, lofty goals. I have included a few images I found on Pinterest that made me happy.
My DIY Project list for 2012:
- valentine decor (hearts to hang, love garland)
- make a heart pillow
- make a "love" pillow
- make a stripe pillow for our bed (bought the fabric today)
- paint a tree on Anna's bedroom wall
- redecorate Anna's room (garlands, Pom poms, pillows, name banner)
- quilt for our bed
- add hooks to old window frame

Source: emilyaclark.blogspot.com via Nadine on Pinterest

- measuring board for Anna

Source: sewmuchsunshine.blogspot.com via Nadine on Pinterest

- make fabric covered bulletin board
- make owl painting
- "I Love You because..." picture frame

Source: witandwhistle.com via Nadine on Pinterest

- Make a quote pillow
- make a T-shirt scarf

Source: yougogirl.typepad.com via Nadine on Pinterest

- make an owl
- plant a herb garden
- make a tutu for Anna for Valentine's Day

Source: alainnotebook.com via Nadine on Pinterest

- make a heart in the snow and take a picture
- make a "you are my sunshine" art piece
- make a ruffle canvas tote
- make a frame with chicken wire or a chalk board
- scrapbook 5 layouts a month.... This seems attainable without being overwhelmed by deadlines (have only completed one, have 5 days left)

I promise to keep you posted with my progress. What is on your DIY wish list?
xo

Be done with the rest

2012-01-26T09:03:00.002-07:00

Source: this-is-glamorous.tumblr.com via Nadine on Pinterest

Project Life Week 3

2012-01-24T09:33:00.000-07:00

Love this project. Seriously love! I get to do something creative for myself each week. I haven't done this much for myself in ages! Feels good. Here is a look at Week 3...

The weather here this past week was so bitterly cold! For 4 days straight the temperature was -30 degrees Celsius, with the windchill it reached the -40's!! The coldest day time temperature was -44 degrees Celsius! During the day! I don't even want to know the overnight temperatures! Are you kidding me?? They warned on the news that exposed skin would freeze within 2 minutes! Needless to say we didn't leave the house too much! We bundled up, cuddled under blankets and tried to stay warm. We get weather like this at least once a year but it's always like the first time each time it happens. Brrrr.

Page one: I decided to add in some sticker & chipboard words this week. I was needing to embellish and this did the trick.

We went to the Pet Expo on Saturday and I wanted to include the brochure. I placed it in a 8x8 page protector, trimmed off the excess and sewed it up with my machine. I also used a card collector page protector for a bunch of Pet Expo pictures.

On the reverse side of the Pet Expo pictures I placed a group of Mumbo Jumbo pictures and notes. I am the only mom there taking photos each week, they probably think I'm crazy but someday they'll wish they had more photos.

This is Anna's craft from Mumbo Jumbo. It was oversize so I created another custom page protector. I placed the art in a 12x12 page protector, trimmed off the excess and sewed up the opening. Perfect.

Page 2: I wanted to include the story about our little car crash and decided to journal right on the picture. I like how it turned out. No worries, everyone is all okay and hopefully the quote to fix it won't be outrageous.

My favorite Anna thing for Week 3.

what's for dinner tonight?

2012-01-22T12:39:00.001-07:00

This here is my new discovery: Butternut Squash pasta sauce. Ridiculously delicious. I found it here in Edmonton at Costco and can not have enough on hand. I make a super easy, super yummy cannelloni with it and wanted to share:

What you'll need:
-Sauce
-Cannelloni noodles (I use oven express)
-cottage cheese- 250ml tub
-large can of canned chopped tomatoes- most of the juice drained (I think it's 28oz)
-herbs: oregano & basil
- shredded cheese; I use mozza, old cheddar and parmesan

- In a bowl mix the cottage cheese, tomatoes and herbs.

- Line bottom of baking dish with a thin layer of sauce.

- Pull hair back to make wings. Not totally necessary but it's a good look.

- Take noodles and using hands, stuff each full of your cottage cheese mixture. Get messy.

- Line up noodles as you go in baking dish.

- Pour remaining sauce over your stuffed noodles.

- Top with cheese. I use cheese in the excess, pile on at your own discretion.

- Bake at 350'C for approximately 45 min.

You can make so many substitutions to this dish. I sometimes add spinach and onions to the cheese mixture. I used to make this with regular tomato based pasta sauce and it was also delicious. I usually have these 3 cheeses on hand but have made it with just mozza before and it's great, you definitely don't need all three. Want to make it more delicious (and fattening)? I make an alfredo sauce (from a package) and pour over the tomato sauce before I add the cheese. Mmmmm.

Enjoy!

today: new discoveries

2012-01-22T09:52:00.003-07:00

alphas: American Crafts, hemp: May Arts, papers and embellishments: My Mind's Eye

Pin It

I finally have some scrapbooking to share with you, I think it's been months (maybe not quite) since I made a layout for myself. I used My Mind's Eye's January sketch challenge to inspire me here and I LOVE it. What else do I love? These papers, the kraft & the color = fabulous! (click the link to see the sketch)

I have a recipe to share so hopefully I'll be back today but I have a hot date with my husband tonight and a to do list a mile long... so we'll see.

Have a wonderful Sunday friends!

2012-01-19T06:00:00.002-07:00

Source: weheartit.com via Nadine on Pinterest

Project Life Week 2

2012-01-17T06:00:00.002-07:00

I am loving this project! I am keeping up with jotting down notes for each day & I am not stressing out if I don't have a photo from each day. The only thing that is a bit of a pain and inconvenient for me- sending my photos out to be printed. I edit them through out the week, send them out Saturday night and pick them up on Sunday, it's a bit hectic. I may have to figure out a better plan for that & buying a good printer is not in my cards right now.
Here is week 2...

Project Life- Week 2

I have so many pictures from this week. I had such a hard time trimming back to make room for notes so I added in little journaling spots on a some of the pictures. This way I could keep my pictures and have my notes.

I added in an 8.5 x 11 page protector to hold Anna's first from Mumbo Jumbo.

Anna started Mumbo Jumbo & swimming this week, these are our first registered programs and I was so excited. There were too many photos to choose from and I couldn't bare to cut any. I added in another 12x12 page protector (design F from Becky Higgins) to hold pictures from Mumbo Jumbo on one side & swimming on the other.

Swimming

My favorite Anna thing for week 2.

Mumbo Jumbo

2012-01-12T06:00:00.002-07:00

I registered Anna in a playgroup called Mumbo Jumbo, we started yesterday and it was wonderful. We sing songs, play games, have a snack, there's story time & craft time. She doesn't care to sit in a circle, she wants to go explore and visit with the other kids but I think she's a huge fan of Mumbo Jumbo!
This is Anna's very first craft and this proud momma wanted to share. (I may have teared up when I hung up her first craft on the fridge)

choose

2012-01-12T05:45:00.001-07:00

Source: eliseblaha.typepad.com via Ali on Pinterest

Project Life- Week 1

2012-01-11T13:53:00.000-07:00

I decided that I wanted to work on Project Life upstairs so I set up a table and moved a few supplies up and now I get to work in front of the window. It's nice to have all the light and Anna has less scrap booking product to "get into" up here. She's such a good helper ;-)

My title page for PL.

Week 1: January 1 - January 7

In my efforts to stay on top of this and not forget what we all did I am writing daily notes in my journal at the end of the day. It's great because I can go to the journal when I'm making these pages and easily access the memories.

I added in a page (collector card holder from the dollar store) for all the photos from Anna at the park because I couldn't choose just one or two. I also added in an 8.5 x 11 page protector to hold a facebook message between my sweet friend Naomi and myself. I just copied and pasted the messages in a word document, added in the date they were sent and then printed it off.

In the bottom right corner I added a card for "my favorite thing you do right now" and am putting what I love about Anna at this moment. This is something I hope to continue for the rest of the project. Even after just one week she has done so many things I want to remember. I wish I had done this type of project from when she was born, I feel like I have forgotten so many important things. Good thing I took a billion photos.

I am excited about this project and can't wait to share more with you.

January's Card Class

2012-01-09T10:50:00.003-07:00

Thursday, January 19

6:00pm - 8:30pm

$38

Student Supplies:

12x12 Trimmer

Scissors

Adhesive

Tape

3D Adhesive Foam

Brown Inks

Ink Applicator

Brown Marker or Pen (fine tip)

Corner Rounder

Paper Piercer

Call Treasured Memories @ 780-414-1540 to sign up for a class spot or a kit.

See you then!

Did you know?

2012-01-08T13:29:00.001-07:00

I thought I'd do a little sharing with you today before Anna & I head out for a walk. It's unseasonably warm here today, it's 8 degrees... above zero! It's suppose to rain & snow tomorrow so we should enjoy it while we can.

10 things you may not know about me:

1) I am a vegetarian.

2) I have 3 cats and have had them for almost 12 years!

3) I am addicted to magazines! Want to see me go coo coo- try using them as a coaster! My list of favorites includes: Clean Eating, Oxygen, Artful Blogging, Where Women Create, Somerset Studio, Vegetarian Times & Flea Market Finds.

4) I love to cook & bake. It's no big deal but I am a pretty darn good cook!

5) I long to live on an acreage so I can have a chicken and a pig as pets. I also think donkeys are adorable.

6) I worked at Dairy Queen for 6 years back in Stettler and it still remains one of my absolute favorite jobs.

7) I traveled to Indonesia for 2 weeks when I was 16 as part of a high school trip. It was incredible. If I close my eyes and think about it I can remember it like it was yesterday.

8) I have 3 tattoos and really want another!

9) I went to University for 5 years. I have my Teachers Assistant certificate and my Bachelor of Education degree.

10) During my interview at Creative Door I was asked if I was married? I said no & jokingly added that I was actively looking for a husband. One week later at that job I met Cory and the rest is history.

xoxo

always look again

2012-01-05T06:00:00.003-07:00

Source: iiiinspired.blogspot.com via Nadine on Pinterest

Project Life

2012-01-03T15:18:00.000-07:00

My Project Life came in the mail today & I almost burst when I saw the box at the door. It is a box of scrapbooking happiness! I decided after I participated in Week in the Life that this was something I would really like to be involved in and bring to life. Documenting our life in a different way than I am used to, capturing the exciting days and the down days of our life and watching Anna change every minute was enough motivation for me. I am excited to get started and to share the project with you.
This is a blog post from Ali Edwards and how she approaches her Project Life.
Becky Higgins blog has a ton of Project Life inspiration today, check it out.

reflections on a year gone by

2011-12-31T06:00:00.010-07:00

2011

January

Cory & I had our first baby free date on January 1.

February

I bought some paint, hit up Ikea and made a new creative space.

March

Anna is now 4 months old and eating baby foods and cereal.

Anna sat up all by herself for the first time.

April

We left Anna with Gramma & Papa for the first time and headed to Banff for Cory's 38th birthday.

We celebrated Easter and made Anna wear ridiculous bunny ears for ridiculously adorable photos.

May

Anna met her Baba Wolansky for the first time.

Anna is 6 months now and babbling all the time.

She is now super ticklish.

Her favorite food right now is cucumber.

June

My brother & Lyndsey welcomed Brayden into the world on June 6.

Anna got her first tooth.

Cory started working part time at Cabellas and loves it! He gets to talk non stop about fishing...

with people that know what he's talking about. ;-)

July

I finished my second quilt, this one was a gift for Brayden.

My mom & I hosted a baby shower for Lyndsey & Brayden.

I hit the road solo and headed south to Lethbridge to see Kara.

We took Anna to the Calgary Zoo.

August

We spent as much time as we could outside.

We had picnics.

We ate dinner outside every night we could.

September

Cory & I celebrated our third wedding anniversary.

Anna had a trip to the emergency room at the Stollery for a bad ear infection.

Anna ended up getting the baby measles.

Anna stood by herself for the first time.

Two of my layouts were featured on the My Mind's Eye blog.

October

I turned 33 on October 2.

Anna took her first steps on my birthday.

We took our traditional fall family photos.

Anna made a fabulous lady bug.

Cory & I dressed up for the first time for Halloween and handed out candy to 12 kiddies.

November

We celebrated Anna's first birthday on the twelfth.

Anna started walking full time the first week of November.

The week following her birthday Anna got 6 new teeth.... all at once.

December

Cory & I opened gifts together on the 23rd.

We celebrated Christmas at Gramma & Papa's.

Anna got a sled and had her first ride.

Cory worked at 4am!!! at Cabellas on Boxing Day. There were 15 people in line when he got there at 4am!!! When they opened at 6am there were almost 500 people in line.

I laid in bed while all those shoppers got in line all over the city.

Anna tries to run away from us now, especially when I try to smother her in kisses.

She gives high fives and knows where her ears, toes, mouth, tummy and legs are at.

She dances on command and kisses herself in the mirror.

Anna can say Elmo and asks "What's that?"

My girl LOVES chocolate.

This past year was full of joy.

Full of frustrations.

Full of new discoveries for a little girl.

Full of learning & teaching moments for a momma & a daddy.

Full of struggles.

Full of moments of uncertainty.

Full of sweet baby smiles.

Full of unconditional love.

Over the last couple of days I found myself reflecting on the past yea, on the goals & dreams I had hoped to reach and I was disappointed and feeling a little bit hard on myself. That moment passed when I realized I may not be where I thought I should but instead I spent those days raising the most wonderful, smart, funny, beautiful little girl and I couldn't be more proud of myself. Proud of Cory & I. Proud of Anna.

We say good bye to 2011.

Hello to new possibilities.

Hello to fresh starts.

Hello to renewed energy.

Hello to new discoveries.

Hello to love.

Hello to courage.

Hello twenty twelve.

To me sweet blog readers,

Thank you so much for joining me here.

For listening to my stories.

For showing your support & encouragement.

I am grateful.

love love love

Nadine

discovering courage, discovering bravery

2011-12-30T06:00:00.002-07:00

Courage

Defined as the ability to confront fear, uncertainty or intimidation.

Moral courage is the ability to act rightly in the face of popular opposition,

shame, scandal or discouragement.

Courage is the most important of the virtues,

because without courage you can't practice any other virtue consistently.

While looking up the definition of courage I also fell in love with this: Bravery is a sub category of courage and involves acting in a way that enhances what one believes to be good in spite of social disapproval and possible backlash. A newer definition of bravery is psychological bravery which involves things such as overcoming one’s own addictive habits & irrational anxieties. Psychological bravery means acting against one’s own natural inclinations and facing fears.

(definitions were found via Wikipedia)

Courage seemed to scream at me when I was considering my word fro 2012. I looked up the definition and thought "How perfect!" I am constantly not doing something because I am intimidated, because I am scared, because I am unsure of myself and my abilities. It's sad and frustrating. It makes me feel down right shitty and that is no way to feel about yourself. I can not count the number of times that I haven't done something because I was scared. Scared of what? Sometimes I can't even answer that question for myself. When I try something new for the first time (which is almost never) I get so anxious that I almost make myself sick. I can remember driving to hot yoga for the first time and sweating buckets before I even got there. I can remember almost turning my car around and going home because I thought I was going to throw up. I go to Spa Lady, I sit in the weight area lifting my weights watching the Zumba classes. I sit there and do the moves in my head but the thought of going in there is too much. I know I'd have fun but it's that first step. That first step that says; I'm just as good as any body else in there. I deserve to be in there.

Don't even get me started on how many things I want to do for work, how many publications that I want to submit to, how many challenges I want to enter! How many projects I want to bring to life to share in classes and here for my blog readers. Sadly, I don't do it. Why? Because there is a voice in the back of my head that whispers- You aren't good enough. You don't have the balls. You don't have what it takes. You're not creative enough. No one will choose your work. Someone else is already doing it. What makes you unique?

It's sad really. I would never let someone I love think those things about themselves so why am I doing it to myself. I am the opposition that I am fighting against. I am so very tired of it. I vow here that I will work hard at removing those voices from my life. That I will choose to be brave. That I will face these situations with a courageous heart. I will discover what courage can bring to my life. How much happier I will be. I know that it will not be easy & I know that I will have to figure it out in my own way.

Do you have a word for 2012?

Here's to discovering courage friends.

love,

Nadine

begin today

2011-12-29T06:00:00.001-07:00

Source: 7beaches.tumblr.com via Nadine on Pinterest

another one gone

2011-12-28T12:48:00.002-07:00

Another Christmas gone by way too fast. We had a great little holiday at my parents, too short but wonderful regardless. I absolutely love watching Anna with her Gramma & Papa! She is totally a Papa's girl, always wants to be with Papa, it makes my heart happy!
I didn't waste any time this year, the tree is down and the decorations put away. Okay so I took them down to the basement but they're almost put away. It's so bare and boring, I was a little sad after i had done it. I never was able to make it to Ukrainian Christmas! I had to do it, I need to get into a routine so I can get back on track and burn off all the junk food I ate over the last couple of weeks and I can gear up for my One Little Word and my Project Life. Did I mention yet that I made the decision to jump head first into a new project- Project Life. I'm a little intimidated and a lot excited. I am waiting for my kit to arrive any day......any day now.

Dear Ferrero Roche:
I love you, but please stop coming by my house!
Love Nadine

Here are a few photos to share...

The photo is fabulous and terrible. Anna wasn't crying or looking away= fabulous.

I wish the quality was better.

Anna dialing on her new cell phone from Gramma.

It is so stinkin' cute when she holds it up to her ear.

Hanging out with Brayden, probably wishing she could get up and poke his eye out.

She means it in the nicest way possible.

On a side note, how cute is my nephew? Seriously!

Gramma & Papa bought Anna a new sled / wagon for Christmas.

This is her with Papa on her first ever sleigh ride.

Happy.

Practicing up for when the snow comes.... because it will come.

Cory got a Magic Bullet (How awesome are these things!) and I tried my first green smoothie.

I was pleasantly surprised by how delicious it was!

Here's what I used:

2 cups of spinach (blend first with a little water before adding other ingredients)

1 small banana

1 tbsp ground flax seeds

1/4 cup yogurt

handful frozen strawberries (or any other berry)

1 tsp agave

3/4 cup milk

I'll share my One Little Word and why it was important to me on Friday. I'll also show you my new bracelet from Lisa Leonard Designs that I got for Christmas to celebrate my word. I'll also share how I did this year as far as my word went.

xoxo

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas Sweet Friends from my family to yours!

May your holiday be full of happiness, love, laughter, good food and wonderful company.

funny, laugh until you cry funny

2011-12-23T23:19:00.000-07:00

No matter how many times I see this movie it never gets old. It is as funny as the first time I saw it! Need a laugh? Watch National Lampoons Christmas Vacation. I'm laughing right now thinking about it.

more december shots from around here

2011-12-23T23:13:00.003-07:00

A few more of my favorite December Daily pictures to share.

Trying to capture the twinkle.

This is Anna. This is life around here. She is always on the go.

This girl loves necklaces. She is just so amazing.

ginger snap goodness

2011-12-23T09:24:00.000-07:00

I may bombard you all with a few new posts today as my internet has been down for 3 days! 3!!! In case you were wondering I was starting to develop a twitch! ;-) Anywhoo...

The Christmas season brings with it holiday baking and I couldn’t be happier about that! My absolute favourites include ginger snaps, my beautiful girlfriend Annie’s shortbread cookies, nuts ‘n bolts, gingerbread cake, peanut brittle, caramel popcorn and fudge. I’m pretty sure I could sit here all day and list treats that sabotage my waist line. I wanted to share my number one pick- gingersnaps. They need to be chewy, they need to be cracked on top and they’re always better when you roll them in sugar. They make the perfect little gift and they go fantastic with a cup of your favourite coffee. (Or tea if that’s how you roll)

Chewy Gingersnaps

¾ cup margarine or butter (make sure it’s nice & soft)
1 cup sugar
1 egg
¼ cup molasses
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups flour sifted (do it- sift it- it does make a difference)
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
½ tsp cloves
½ tsp salt
Additional sugar for rolling

*Combine the dry ingredients- flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves & salt. Set aside

*In large mixing bowl, combine margarine and sugar, cream until light and fluffy.

*Add the egg, molasses & vanilla. Mix well

*Slowly add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mix well.

*Roll dough into balls (1” is just about the perfect size), roll balls in the additional sugar and place on to an ungreased cookie sheet

*Bake at 375 for 8 minutes. Cool on wire racks. Depending on your oven they may need longer than 8 minutes. Do not overcook; you’ll lose the chewy goodness!

Enjoy!
xo

on the mend

2011-12-19T20:23:00.000-07:00

After 2 bottles of Gatorade and a bowl of macaroni & cheese I finally feel a little bit better and I have managed to wrap a few presents and get some work done. I thought I would pop back in and share some December Daily pictures that make me happy.

Sharing fresh out of the oven cookies for our bedtime snack.

Back in September my sweet friend Kara brought me back 6 or 7 bags of coconut M&M's from the US. I thought they were all gone but I dug into the back of the towel closet (where I hid them from myself) and WOWEE- I found a bag. Such happiness filled my insides!

Coloring.

Brushing teeth. Or should I say... eating toothpaste.

to do, to do, to do

2011-12-19T11:39:00.000-07:00

5 sleeps.... yikes!
I have been laid up in bed for the last two days with some sort of stomach bug. Today I am trying to eat something so I can get my energy back because those gingersnaps and nuts n' bolts won't make themselves! I haven't even wrapped my presents- so not like me. Augh! Cory, Anna & I celebrate our own little family Christmas on Friday and I feel like Friday will be here if I dare close my eyes again. With that... I'm off to get some work done. I will hopefully be back to share a couple of my favorite holiday recipes with you.
Take care friends!
xo

give it a try

2011-12-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

Source: imgfave.com via Nadine on Pinterest

I'm here.....

2011-12-14T14:15:00.000-07:00

10 sleeps until Christmas Eve! Are you all finished? Are you ready for Christmas? I don't think I am ever done, shopping maybe but there a gazillion things I want to do before the big day. I have creations bouncing around my head like ping pong balls. I have about 20 holiday baking recipes I want to try. The to do list is a long one... as maybe you can tell by my lack of blogging. I have something I want to write about everyday but getting down here to blog has been a challenge.
What have I been up to?
I am working on my December Daily.
I have decided on my One Little Word for 2012 and thinking about how I can use it to grow.
I have been comforting and cuddling a teething babe.
I have been baking... gingersnaps are one of my all time favorite baking traditions of the season.
I have been dreaming about what I want 2012 to look like.
I have been working on some dreams & changes for my blog and for work.
I have been working on some dreams & changes fro my life.
I have been treating myself to my new favorite holiday coffee- the Caramel Brule latte from Starbucks. MAJOR YUMMY!
I have been trying to work less hours at night and go to bed early. Still working on that one!

Here are a few of my favorite December Daily photos...

My favorite part of decorating the tree, going through all our photo ornaments since 2006.

Helping Momma bake cookies. Love.

I wanted to share these fabulous, handmade monkeys. My amazing, kind, beautiful friend KC makes these babes and they are amazing! After everyone in her life badgered her to sell her handmade lovelies she has done it! They are available to buy at Treasured Memories for $40. I'm also throwing it out there that she takes custom orders. She is seriously amazing!

you are lovely

2011-12-08T07:00:00.002-07:00

Source: dusty-miracles.tumblr.com via Nadine on Pinterest

just dreamy

2011-12-06T07:05:00.004-07:00

This is a picture Cory took over the weekend on our trip to the Wellington garden center here in Edmonton (13648 - 142 Street), it makes me happy. I day dream of the day I have studio, in a garden surrounded by loveliness.

I love going there.

It's dreamy.

It's elegant.

It's beautiful.

It's inspiring.

Christmas Around Here

2011-12-05T09:50:00.001-07:00

December first marks a little tradition Cory & I started a few years back, we call it-Christmas Decoration Celebration. We have a nice dinner, we dig out the tree and the decorations, pour a little egg nog and we set the tree up. Anna was right into it this year, digging in the boxes, playing with the lights, wondering what in the world was happening.

This past weekend we headed to Wellingtons for some live greenery & my amaryllis then to Home Sense for a couple fabulous little treasures and I finished up the rest of the house.

I love this time of year. I love the colors, I love the lights twinkling on the tree, I love the smell of pine, I love Chirstmas carols, I love buying presents for my family, I love holiday traditions, I love Christmas baking, I love reminiscing of years gone by. What do you love?

put out good energy

2011-12-03T20:33:00.000-07:00

I have been so incredibly blessed to have Treasured Memories in my life, they are too good to me! Chantel has been so generous and has let me sell premade kits and my album demos in the store over the past month. It has been very well received and I am also so grateful to those of you that are purchasing these kits and demos from me. It has been brought to my attention that one of my projects has vanished and it is believed that it has been stolen. When I read that email I was immediately angry, but minutes later I realize I'm just so very sad about it. What I hope is that it got put somewhere and the staff missed it, that it will turn up. Unfortunately this is not the first time personal work has gone missing from the store so... Whom ever you are, whatever you have taken: you're not just stealing a factory produced product (which is just as douche baggie), you're stealing part of me. My time, my energy, my care and attention, my love for creating. I spend hours working on my projects, I don't get paid for that time. I do it because I love to create but I'll point out that it is also the time that I took away from my family & from my own personal to do's. I make these projects to inspire you, to teach you new techniques, to give you confidence so you realise that you too can make projects like mine. The money that I am making from these kits & demos is used to buy my Christmas presents for my family. For my daughter. I work extra hard at Christmas and put in long days and nights to be able to give them everything they deserve that I'm not able to do during the rest of the year. I am sad that you have taken a piece of that away. Every time you look at it, know that it was not made by your own hand. That it is now surrounded by bad energy. We all know what they say about Karma. If you took this project in hopes of giving it away then I'll let you in on a little secret of mine.... I sign my work all over, multiple times in obscure, hidden places.

A word on shoplifting in general, when you steal it drives up prices hurting everyone around you! Remember, the energy that you put out into the Universe is exactly what you will get back. Put out good energy.
Nadine

Listen

2011-12-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

Source: zsazsabellagio.blogspot.com via Nadine on Pinterest

more card packages

2011-11-29T20:52:00.000-07:00

The card packages that I put togehter forTreasured Memories are a big hit so I sat down & made up a few more for the store. These are cards that were not used as card demos and haven't been seen before. They're perfect for htose of you that want to send out cards but just don't have the time to make your own.

~~Kaiser Craft pattern papers~~ sold

Fancy Pants pattern papers

My Mind's Eye pattern papers

{I created this card package for the store & it was not used as a class demo}

Little Yellow Bicycle pattern papers

{I created this card package for the store & it was not used as a class demo}

~~Authentique pattern papers~~ sold

{I created this card package for the store & it was not used as a class demo}

lift me up

2011-11-24T09:59:00.002-07:00

Source: 4.bp.blogspot.com via Nadine on Pinterest

card packages for sale

2011-11-23T16:17:00.002-07:00

*updated*
Hello Lovelies!
I have had a few requests from people that want to purchase my card class demos and I decided that since I don't send then out I would do up packages. I have 5 sets of Christmas cards available for sale at Treasured Memories. They are $38 with each package containing 6 cards, envelopes and I have added inserts in each card for you to write on.

~~Anna Griffin pattern papers~~ ~~(2010)~~ sold

~~Bo Bunny pattern papers~~ ~~(2010)~~ sold

Kaiser Craft pattern papers (2010)

~~My Mind's Eye pattern papers~~ sold

~~Authentique pattern papers~~ sold

25 Days Sneak Peek

2011-11-22T10:43:00.000-07:00

I have had many requests for pictures of the inside pages & while I never post all the photos I thought I'd give you a sneak peek inside. Perhaps after the class runs I'll share the rest. When I checked last there were three spots left but that was 3 days ago....

lift me up

2011-11-17T07:24:00.000-07:00

Source: catchingfireflies.typepad.com via Nadine on Pinterest

Echo Park Christmas Cards

2011-11-16T23:30:00.000-07:00

Christmas Cards with Echo Park

Thursday, November 24

6:00pm - 8:30pm

$38

see class page for full details

Celebrating 25 Days of Christmas

2011-11-15T19:08:00.000-07:00

Celebrating 25 Days of Christmas

Saturday, November 26

10:00am - 2:00pm

$58

{see class page for all the details}

the birthday girl

2011-11-14T07:00:00.002-07:00

a lady bug birthday

2011-11-13T20:48:00.000-07:00

I have a one year old- wow! I really can't believe how fast this year has gone by. It had it's share of ups & downs but when I look back I am so grateful for the amazing blessings that she has brought into my life. We celebrated all weekend and had two little parties for her. The birthday girl is all partied out and momma & daddy are pretty tired themselves. I am so grateful for my family and for the friends that were able to come celebrate with us. She definitely loved all the attention and is over the moon happy with all her new goodies.
The days leading up to this weekend were busy busy for me, I made all the decorations and put special touches into everything. I love this sort of thing and with my current obsession with pinterest the ideas were piling up all around me. I wanted to share some of the pictures with you here. I'll be back tomorrow with pictures of the birthday girl.

Happy 1st Birthday!

2011-11-12T06:00:00.020-07:00

One year ago today you came into our world and made it such a beautiful place.

You have brought us so much happiness and joy.

We are so very grateful for you, for your smiles & kisses and yes, even your fabulous temper.

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl!

We love you so very much!

xoxo

Momma & Daddy

11-11-11

2011-11-11T07:25:00.001-07:00

Remembering. Today I will think about all those hundreds of thousands of lives lost to give us the amazing lives we get to lead. For those that are still off fighting, leaving their families to teach, to bring safety and a new life to strangers.
I will also spend today remembering where we were this time last year. We were packing our bags to go to the hospital. We were waiting for the phone call to go to the hospital to be induced. I still remember that phone call- Nurse: Good Morning, is this Nadine? Me: Yes it is. Nurse: Are you ready to have a baby? Me: (very excitedly) Yes I am! Nurse: Have some breakfast and a shower and head on over and we'll get this going. Me: (now nervous): See you soon!
I remember pacing. I remember reading my book on what was about to happen for the 1000th time! I remember going out with Cory, just the two of us for the last time. I remember wanting to know what she looked like so bad. I remember be anxious. I remember cleaning. I remember praying she wasn't a big baby. I remember packing 5 outfits for her to wear home because I could pick one, they were all too cute. I remember having no idea. Having no idea how our lives were about to be forever changed.

lift me up

2011-11-10T11:24:00.000-07:00

Source: th3skinny.tumblr.com via Nadine on Pinterest

wonder & wishes card class

2011-11-08T10:06:00.000-07:00

Wonder & Wishes

Thursday, November 17

6:00pm - 8:30pm

$38

see the class page for student supplies

walking

2011-11-06T21:01:00.000-07:00

lift me up

2011-11-03T08:57:00.003-06:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Nadine on Pinterest

my baby bug

2011-11-01T18:31:00.001-06:00

my sweet ladybug

a crazy bag lady, a fisherman & a lady bug

Anna wasn't very spooked by me, made me wonder if she sees me like this some days. The days where she won't nap, wakes up a dozen times a night & won't eat anything I try to feed her. Perhaps she's seen this lady before minus the bags full of stuffed animals. ;-)

Today I am:

kitting my Thursday class

making card demos

dreaming up chocolate cream cheese icing recipes

making shepherds pie for dinner and an extra to freeze

trying to stay warm

trying not to eat the left over Halloween chocolate

doing laundry

wishing the Halloween decorations would take themselves down

planning a very special first birthday

reading Heaven is for Real

listening to Anna play & squeal in the tub

lighting all our candles

drinking peppermint green tea

have a spooktacular day

2011-10-31T13:18:00.000-06:00

Kaiser Craft Christmas Cards

2011-10-30T10:18:00.000-06:00

Thursday, November 10

6:00 - 8:30pm

$38

Don't forget to check the class page for the supply list.

Fancy Pants Christmas Card Class

2011-10-28T08:18:00.001-06:00

We have added 2 additional card classes to the previously scheduled 5... I know- crazy!! 7 card classes!! Below is the first of those. You can get all the class details here.

I have some super fabulous ladies that come to each and every class I hold and for them I am so incredibly grateful. As per one of their requests I have added a new page to the list located under my blog banner. If you click on the Classes page it will take you to a list of my current classes. The photos, the details and the student supply list. Awesome!

Thursday, November 3

6:00pm - 8:30pm

$38

lift me up thursday

2011-10-27T07:00:00.002-06:00

Source: google.com via Wendi on Pinterest

spooktacular

2011-10-18T17:22:00.000-06:00

I love Halloween... LOVE. I got so many ideas for decorations from Pinterest this year, so great! I had so much fun putting this all together and every time I added something new I got giddy and may have cheered to myself a few times! I have been collecting these decorations for the last few years they have either been gifts or found at Home Sense and Michael's.

I made the pom poms, garland and bats- click on each for the link to where I found them and the how-to's.

I had the hard job of finishing some wine to make these potion bottles ;-) I found the potion labels here.

This garland was made using elements from Janet Hopkins digital Happy Haunting Kit.

These paper pin wheel decorations are everywhere! Why? Because they're AWESOME! I found a tutorial for you from Amy Butler (who is also awesome), you can find it here.

Thanks for looking!

Hello Monday

2011-10-17T14:23:00.000-06:00

Today has been a very up & down sort of day. The day started out great, Anna & I hit the gym this morning, she played up a storm I had a great work out then we came home and she wouldn't eat or go for a nap. She cheered up and then I threw a temper tantrum because something is wrong with our computer... again, I took a time out, Anna went for a nap and here I am... blogging, perhaps momma needs to be napping too.

This past weekend we went out the Enjoy Center in St. Albert to check out their pumpkins and to have lunch at the Prairie Bistro. We had a little fun with their Halloween display, we had lots of laughs and got a few strange looks.
I am finishing up my Halloween decorations today, I'm hoping to have pictures to share tomorrow. For now,
here are some of my favorite shots from the weekend.

Seriously! How great is this picture! She has the best look on her face!

lift me up thursday

2011-10-13T07:00:00.001-06:00

Source: meggielynne.tumblr.com via Nadine on Pinterest

better late than never

2011-10-11T09:28:00.000-06:00

Here I am finally getting around to posting the last two winners from my September challenge. Sorry for my tardiness... let's just say "life" has been happening.

Congratulations to Lisa & Ginger! I'll be in touch soon.
Thank you again for sharing your work with me!!!
Mwah!

gratitude

2011-10-10T21:24:00.000-06:00

To my fellow Canadians, Happy Thanksgiving to you.

In no particular order... I am grateful for these two faces. For the occasional night where we all sleep through the night. For my family. For creating. For slobber filled kisses. For my iPad. For Pinterest. For true friends. For the ability to recognize who those are. For Starbucks. For the PVR. For my health and for my family's health. For the chance to work from home and be home with our baby. For morning kisses. For mid day texts to just say "I'm thinking about you." For a gym membership. For yoga. For zincofax. For Google. For new sheet day. For dancing in the kitchen. For reading before bed. For cupcakes with strawberry buttercream frosting.

lift me up thursday returns

2011-10-06T09:02:00.000-06:00

Source: None via Nadine on Pinterest

the end to my 30 day challenge

2011-10-04T20:49:00.000-06:00

Here is the rest of my work from September for my 30 day challenge. I did awesome if I do say so myself. I did however not complete all 30 days, there were 5 days that I did nothing creative. This challenge I set for myself was actually quite hard. I struggled some days to find time and somedays I forced myself to make something, which is hard when you're not feeling the creative energy. The challenge did however make me more aware of the happiness I felt when I did create, when I made time for myself. I know I can't create everyday but I will make more time for myself to get down to my space, to feel the positive energy from creating something fabulous.

Papers: MME, alphas: Authentique

papers: Echo Park, embellishments: Echo Park, Girls Paperie, Making Memories, Authentique

papers: Echo Park, embellishments: Echo Park, Making Memories

This is the kit of the month for October that I put together at Treasured Memories, you can see the kit and the write up here. The following work is what I made using product from my the kit. The only thing I added in is the cardstock used for the cards. I have more product left from the kit so I plan on creating a few more pieces with it.

Hello October & a little catch up

2011-10-03T13:50:00.000-06:00

How is it October! How! I barely remember September.
In 6 short weeks my babe will be 1 year old. Seriously! Oh my gosh. I feel like time is slipping away faster each day. This is why doing what I do and scrapbooking these memories of her and our lives together is so important to me. I'll share a little photo shoot we did later this week along with a little birthday post, until then I wanted to share some fabulous work from a few wonderfully talented ladies.
This is the work that was shared with me while my computer was out of commission with a stupid and reoccurring virus- lame!
Thank you to Lisa, Jacky & Ginger! You're all so very fabulous!

This painting is done by Lisa, isn't it amazing!!! She is so very talented, you can find her blog here.

This was sent to me by Jacky, she used the Graphic 45 Christmas line. I love this image, thanks Jacky!

I created a collage with these 6 journaling pages from Ginger. They are for her Learn Something New Everyday class. I love them all. Good for you Ginger for keeping up with that class and recording your thoughts and lessons learned each day!

Thank you so much to all the ladies who shared with me, for your inspiration and for allowing me to share your work here with my readers. I am grateful for each of you.

I will post the last 2 winners and their prizes here tomorrow along with the work I finished up in September.

celebrating 33

2011-09-30T10:30:00.001-06:00

It feels like forever since I posted here, I've missed you! I apologize, I have my work to share, other's work to share and giveaways to post... I made a to do list. I have been swamped, both personally and work related. Dealing with some stress and trying my best to not get overwhelmed as product piles up around me like a mountain.
I taught my first Christmas class last night, it was a full house and it went great! Thanks to the fabulous ladies who came and hung out with me. Below is my next class for Christmas Cards on Thursday, October 13. This set of cards is my favorite so far! I know, how do I make that decision when I have made 66 card demos so far this year- 66!
I will get caught up, I promise but you'll have to bear with me until next week. Cory said that I am not allowed to work this weekend and let's be honest, I planned on being a bum this weekend and eating cake anyway! I turn 33 on Sunday and I have been thinking about my "resolutions" for my upcoming year. Where I'm at, where I want to go, what I want to do, how I want to be, what I want to accomplish. I love fresh starts. So celebrate with me on Sunday and treat yourself to something sweet & delicious- calories don't count on my birthday :)
Have a great weekend friends!

Authentique Card Class

Thursday, October 13

6:00pm - 8:30pm

$38

Get all the information here.

3 wonderful years

2011-09-27T10:14:00.001-06:00

I am back, computer fixed, I have lots to share, now I play catch up, but not today. This day 3 years ago I married the most wonderful, kind, compassionate, loving man! It was the most wonderful day.
Happy Anniversary Mr. Handsome. I love love love you!
xoxo

out of order

2011-09-22T15:03:00.000-06:00

This will be short as I'm on my phone, my computer is out of order! (Please insert a sad face here)
Hopefully I'll be able to get everything sorted out soon.
I'll post any creative work I do as soon as I can.
Until then...
xo Nadine

an ear infection

2011-09-20T09:29:00.000-06:00

We have had an "adventurous" few days over here. Anna had been sick with a runny nose for about 12 days, it was a cold, not too much you can do for her. Then on Friday she started getting a fever which went away with tylenol so I didn't think too much of it. The worst part of her being sick, she can't sleep and the poor thing has bad sleeping habits as it is. Then on Sunday she spiked a fever and we had our first (and I'll pray last) trip to the emergency room. Turns out she had a bad ear infection and now she's on 10 days of antibiotics. She is already feeling better, sleeping better and have way more fun. It's nice to have her back, I was missing her laughs and chatty chats she has with her toys. It's also nice to have Cory & I in better moods.

Here is the layout I made last night while watching some of the new tv shows to start the fall line up.

paper and embellishments: Pink Paislee, alphas: American Crafts

This is a Christmas card that Jacky shared with me. It is super cute, I love these cutie stamps she's using! Thanks for sharing Jacky!

weekend work

2011-09-18T11:47:00.000-06:00

This is the last 3 day's creations, a layout, 3 cards (one not shown), and this morning I finished decorating all the envelopes for various goodies I'm sending out in the mail. Other than that I have a house full of sick people and a baby that refuses to sleep unless she's laying on you.
Tired eyes over here.
Lots of coffee to drink.
Starbucks should deliver.

Have a wonderful day friends, Happy Sunday to you all.

papers: MME Lost & Found 1 & 2, embellishments: MME, alphas: American Crafts

papers: MME Lost & Found 1 & 2, cardstock: Bazzill

papers: MME Lost & Found, sentiment sticker: Jillibean Soup

I'm screaming on the inside

2011-09-16T20:40:00.001-06:00

Okay, I cannot lie, I may have screamed a little on the outside as well. I received an email this morning from Amber Packer from My Mind's Eye asking if she could feature two of my layouts on the MME blog in their Eye Catching Find feature. I almost fell out of bed and broke my neck as I ran downstairs at 6am to reply- yes, yes, yes!

You can see the feature and my layouts here.

Thank you so much for having me and sharing my work. I am beyond grateful!

happiness

2011-09-16T08:47:00.004-06:00

I stopped at Treasured Memories yesterday to pick up product for my next class and totally went gaga over a bunch of new product. I picked up new 7 Gypsies, Jillibean Soup, 2 templates from Crafter's Workshop and some of the K&Company Smash product that I missed out on the first time it came into the store. I need professional help.
I am half way through my 30 day creative challenge and am keeping up really well, only missing the 2 days I created cards for a class. There is still time to get in on the challenge, read the original post here.

I played around with the Crafter's Workshop templates last night while creating my layout. I played it safe with the dots but they have so many great designs I may have to get a bit more adventurous. This is a layout of Anna's first swing ride, she absolutely loved it! She was squealing and laughing the entire time, it was so great to catch pure happiness on her face.

papers: Jillibean Soup, swiss dot template: Crafter's Workshop, alphas: American Crafts, date stamp: K&Company

I had to share this picture of my sweet girl. This is her standing for the first time for an extended period of time, I got a little teary (of course). She has been attempting to take that first step.... it won't be long!

I am a huge fan of this fabulous woman so I am excited to share these next two layouts from Lisa. She has used various templates from Crafter's Workshop and her pages have turned out beautifully! Go check out her work here, it's great! Thank you for sharing Lisa!

This is a layout that Jacky created for her granddaughter's first birthday. The balloons as journaling spots are a great idea! Thank you Jacky for sharing this special layout with us!

Thanks for sharing ladies! You rock!

ps. I moved my flickr link from my side bar and created a page at the top of my blog for my albums- check it out

a much sunnier perpsective

2011-09-15T08:30:00.000-06:00

Thanks again for listening to me complain yesterday and sorry that you had to listen to me complain. Just keeping it real over here, showing all those sweet, fabulous people that ask "How do you do it all?" that some days just don't work out for me either!
I had a much better day yesterday, the morning was a bit rocky but we pulled through. We hit up Chapters, read some books, walked over to the pet store to look at the birds and then came home and pulled all the clean clothes out of the laundry basket and left them on the floor... oh wait- that wasn't me ;-)

Last night Cory & I went on a date. My absolutely fabulous, sweetest friend Cassandra (Auntie KC) came over last minute and watched Anna for us so we could go for dinner. It was lovely! I may have had indulged in a little red wine, Mmmm. Thank you Auntie KC- we LOVE you!

I don't have a photo for you but my creative efforts went to keeping my car clean. I took an empty beer case, cut off the top, covered it in pretty pattern paper and ta da- I now have a garbage for my car! So easy & so much better than those tiny garbage bags you get when you get your oil changed!

I do however have Jacky and Ginger to thank, they shared their work with me and it is fabulous! Thank you ladies, you're wonderful!

These two fabulous cards were shared with me by Jacky. She made them with the new My Mind's Eye lines, I think they're so pretty. Jacky has more cards on her blog that are also using MME and are also equally as fabulous, check them out! Thank you Jacky!

Ginger shared this journal page with me, it is from her Learn Something New everyday journal. She used a Scarlet Lime kit and the "Do Your Best" card is from one of Treasured Memories exclusive mini kits. Thanks Ginger!

grump, grump grumpy

2011-09-14T07:03:00.004-06:00

I was in a terrible mood last night- Terrible! Here's how it started- Cory was off, I was making a nice dinner so we could sit down & enjoy each others company. Here's how it went- I made Anna 4 different things to eat, all got thrown on the floor. If you put her down she freaked out. I over cooked our dinner, we sat down to eat it anyway. Anna is having a fit, dinner gets cold, reheat dinner, it dries out (more) so I push my plate away and accept I'm not eating dinner. Anna is so tired but will not stay asleep.......
I really had no creative energy and didn't want to be in my scrapbook space anyways because it is a complete mess and also because I am reminded of all the work I have to do and how I am totally behind on it all. I came down here, made this card and called it a night. I have higher hopes for today.
Thanks for listening.

paper & embellishments: Pink Paislee, alphas: Authentique

sharing a card and another winner

2011-09-13T14:36:00.000-06:00

I wanted to share this card that Jacky made, I should have shared it yesterday... sorry Jacky! She used the new My Mind's Eye papers, I love this card, it is fabulous! She made this card for a challenge on the My Mind's Eye blog, you can read more about the card challenge here. There is also a layout challenge on their blog, I'm thinking I should try out the sketch. Thanks for sharing your inspiration Jacky!

And.... the winner of last weeks prize for sharing their work with me is Jacky! Yeah Jacky! This prize is one of my new favorite companies- Simple Stories! Included are 3 pattern papers, the photo mat elements, the journaling card elements and their cardstock stickers from the Generations line. The colors are so pretty, I hope you love it! I'll be getting in touch with you shortly! Whoot! Whoot!

a halloween layout

2011-09-13T09:49:00.001-06:00

I created this layout yesterday using the new Echo Park Halloween papers. I love all things Halloween and was excited to use some of the new Halloween papers I have bought. Anna was due on November 5 and part of me wanted her to arrive early so I could dress her up ;-) When she didn't come early, in fact she was a week late, I had Cory paint my belly to celebrate this fun day! I though it turned out so great and it was fun to finally scrapbook this picture, I had forgotten how big my belly was.

paper: Echo Park. embellishments: Echo Park, Authentique, Girl's Paperie, misc. alphas: Heidi Swapp

a chilly sunday

2011-09-12T10:02:00.000-06:00

After the beautiful week we had here with temperatures in the +30, I wasn't expecting yesterday to be so chilly. It was dreary and rainy all day so Anna & I stayed in and made the best of it. We could finally use the oven so we baked up a storm. We made chocolate chip, pecan and walnut cookies. We made buns (not the easiest thing to do with a 10 month old hanging of your leg), they're pictured below and while they are not the most beautiful things they are Delicious! Nothing better than a bun fresh out of the oven smothered in butter... Yummm! Then we made a creamy lentil soup for supper. I have to be honest, by the time Cory got home from work I was exhausted but I did get time in for creating when everyone had gone to bed.
I have added a link to my Flickr albums on the right. I have added all the layouts I've been making in an album and hope to continue doing so month by month. I place to share and inspire,I hope you have a chance to check it out.

My dear friend Nancy took these pictures of Anna & I when she was 6 weeks old. This one is my favorite, with my tattoo showing and her peaking over my shoulder- so wonderful!

papers: Prima, alphas: Authentique, tags: Ranger

These next three pages were shared with me by Ginger, they are for her learn something new everyday journal. She continues to create fabulous, beautiful pages for it. This project she is working on actually has me inspired to do something like this for a gratitude journal. Thanks for sharing Ginger! I'll be drawing the winner for last week later tonight and posting tomorrow.

loving this weather, this weekend

2011-09-11T09:41:00.000-06:00

Good Morning! We had a fabulous day over here yesterday. The day started with a Pumpkin Spice latte (it's back) from Starbucks- my most favoritest coffee ever! I hung out in the morning with Chantel making October's kit of the month at Treasured Memories and then I picked up picnic eats and headed to the park with my family. The weather was gorgeous, the sun was hot and the breeze was just right. We took Anna to the park for the first time and put her in a swing- what a blast! I wasn't sure if she's like it but she was squealing and laughing, it was awesome!
As for creating- I'm back on track. I'm not too sure why I set that stupid rule for myself (couldn't be work related creations to count for my 30 days). I have created everyday so I'm pretty happy about that, even if it was for work.
These are my Friday & Saturday creations:

papers: SEI, alphas: Authentique, flower: Prima

I have lots of birthdays to celebrate this month and I made this card for a girlfriend.

papers & embellishments: Pink Paislee- Vintage Vouge

This new paper line from Pink Paislee is FABULOUS! The colors are so pretty and the embellishments that go along with it are beautiful! I love this picture of Anna, I held her like that this morning, Cory & I had a good laugh, she doesn't quite fit anymore and it was hard on the forearm.

I had to share this picture of Anna in the swing, a glimpse at pure happiness. It's wonderful isn't it!

Below are two layouts that Melissa shared with me, both are for e-courses she is taking. She receives prompts via email and then created a layout each day for those prompts. All of her altered clipboards look fabulous! I have some somewhere, I should dig them out for all the lists I like to make! With the exception of one day she has created a layout or two everyday this month! Good for her!!! Thanks for sharing Melissa!You can read & see more from Melissa here.

Christmas Cards

2011-09-09T20:29:00.003-06:00

Christmas Card Class

My Mind's Eye Lost & Found 2

Thursday, September 29

6:00- 8:30pm

$38

This is what I have been working on for the last three days. I struggled to get these just right but in the end I love how they turned out. For those of you that can't attend the class you can always sign up for one of the kits. The ladies from my class last night signed up and paid for their spot so I believe there are only nine left. It hasn't gone up on the Treasured Memories blog yet but I have a feeling that when it does those nine spots will go fast being the first card class for Christmas.... and because the MME papers are gorgeous!

I have 6 classes for the holidays and I've listed them below for you, I don't have pricing yet as I haven't made the demos... am slowly collecting product. I picked up a huge order of Simple Stories today and it is AMAZING! I can't wait to get started on my 25 Days of Christmas album class. This class is always popular and always sells out so I see it as a challenge to do better than the year before.

I hope everyone is having a fabulous Friday, I'm off to do a little creating.

Classes:

Thursday, September 29- cards- using My Mind's Eye- $38

Thursday, October 13- cards- using Authentique- price not available

Thursday, October 27- cards- using Bo Bunny- price not available

Thursday, November 10- cards- product not available- price not available
Thursday, November 24- cards- product not available- price not available
Saturday, November 26- 25 Days of Christmas Album- using Simple Stories- price not available

slightly behind

2011-09-09T09:21:00.001-06:00

Good Morning! I am here to admit to a minor set bet back in my personal challenge. I did not do anything for myself for Wednesday or Thursday- I was way too busy with class preparation and demo making, like stay up to 2am busy (wake up at 6am with baby)... silly girl. So while I did say that "work" creating did not count I do have my first Christmas card class to share and I think they turned out pretty great... if I do say so myself. ;-)

I apologize to the ladies that have sent me stuff to post and didn't see their work up... time ~~slipped~~ ran away from me. I even forgot to post Inspiration Thursday. Eeesh! I'm back on track and I'll make up up for it.

I wanted to share with you some inspiration from Ginger & Jacky. Thank you ladies, you're fabulous!

For Ginger's journal page she used the 7 Gypsies journaling pages, Bo Bunny Sticker, Studio Calico journaling tag, 7 Gypsies journaling tag insert, K& Co. butterfly and Tim Holtz stamps. I love the journal tag hidden in the pocket.

For this page, Ginger used Hambly transparencies and paper, Authentique journal card and K& Co chipboard piece, ribbon unknown. Love this page. The colors are so pretty

This is an autumn inspired card from Jacky. The stamp is beautiful, I love the girl!

Also just wanted to send out a Hello to the ladies in my class last night, thanks for coming inside to make cards when the weather was so beautiful outside!
Cory stayed home with Anna while I went ot teach and I just wanted to share what I came home to... a living room that was hit by a small, adorable tornado named Anna.

feels like july

2011-09-07T09:12:00.001-06:00

It is going to be a hot one today, +31! If it reaches that it would be the hottest day this whole summer- in September! While I love the hot and hate the cold I am gearing up for fall. I love autumn. I love the smell, the colors, the sound of the leaves, the way the sun beats down on you keeping you warm while the crisp air keeps you cool. For me there isn't anything better, oh and perhaps I love autumn because I have a wedding anniversary and a birthday in there. I know that soon after summer leaves winter is not far behind but I choose to block that out, I am blissfully ignorant! (until my car is buried under snow and I am stranded at home)

I am working on Christmas card classes right now and am having the hardest time getting in the Christmas spirit with all the Halloween decor out there. Have you been to Micheal's? YUMMM! There is so much awesome Halloween stuff out it gives me butterflies I get so excited. It's the little things!
Hopefully people like them and hopefully they won't be able to tell that I stared at the cards for hours wishing I knew what to do. No joke there, I have spent hours just blankly staring until something creative and teachable comes to me.
Here is my personal creative time from yesterday, I started this card for my class, hated it and scrapped it. I then picked it up later, took it apart and made a card for myself.

paper, chipboard & brad: MME, poinsettia: Prima

sharing day 5 & a winner

2011-09-06T23:05:00.000-06:00

This Christmas card was sent to me by Jacky. She used Daisy D pattern paper for her background and the stamp is Magnolia, she is adorable! Great job Jacky, thank you for sharing. I wish I had the patience for this.

Ginger shared this page from her journal. She used Glitz and Bo bunny papers, stamps are Tim Holz and Stamper's Anonymous. She sprayed Glimmer Mist on the background and then used a Tattered Angels mask with some Ranger Distress Ink pads. I love the look of this page. Thanks for sharing Ginger!

I am a day beind in announcing my first winner, yesterday was a holiday here & I am all mixed up. So let's get to it... I have a fabulous goodie for the winner from week one- 5 pattern papers, a die cut sheet and a sticker sheet from the new Teresa Collins World Traveler line.

Yeah Ginger! Congratulations!

I will get in touch with you to get you your goodies!

Thank you so much for sharing your work with me so that I can share the inspiration here!

sweet babies & yesterday's layout

2011-09-06T08:35:00.000-06:00

Whenever I see a new baby I can hardly believe how tiny they are, these two were no exception! The tiniest, sweetest, most adorable twins! Dalton is in the blue and Owen is in the white. They're gorgeous! They're perfect! I just snuggled and kissed and smelled and then snuggled them some more! My friend Karen looked absolutely fabulous, I am beyond happy for her fabulous family! Mwah!

With teeny tiny, brand new babies on the brain I came home and scrapbooked pictures from Anna's first Christmas. She is so adorable. Time goes by far too fast, she is getting so big. It shouldn't surprise you that I used MME's new Christmas line- so fabulous! (sorry for the crooked picture- can't seem to get a better one)

paper & embellishments: MME

sharing day 4

2011-09-05T23:07:00.000-06:00

I am sharing another page form Ginger's journal for her Learn Something New Everyday class. I love this page. The pattern papers are from Basic Grey, the colors are fabulous. Thank you Ginger!

a baby card for day 4

2011-09-05T08:05:00.000-06:00

My fabulous friend Karen gave birth to two wonderful baby boys just over a week ago. I am finally heading out to see her today, I am so excited to meet the 2 newest members of her family. I created this card for her to welcome Dalton & Owen.

pattern paper & stickers: Simple Stories

sharing from day 3

2011-09-04T22:00:00.003-06:00

This was sent to me by Ginger, it is another page in her journal for her online class- Learn Something New Everyday. Ginger used MME & GCD paper, and a 7 Gypsies journaling tag. Bo Bunny stickers & a Authentique chipboard piece. To create the background Ginger used glimmer mist with Tattered Leather, then tore the paper a bit and added some cross stitches with embroidery floss.
I think she did a fabulous job, her journal is going to be gorgeous!

This layout was sent to me by Melissa, you can find her here at her blog Daily Life- Bits & Pieces. Melissa created this one for a class at Big Picture Scrapbooking called The Mother Load- A Scrapbook Marathon. Her prompt was to scrapbook a goal or an aspiration. This layout she created is interactive and will go forward for the rest of September. She has listed 4 goals for the month and will check off her progress at the end of each day.
This is awesome! What a great visual to help keep her goals in check.

These 6 cards were sent to me by Jacky, you can find her here at Scrappy Jacky. Jacky used My Mind's Eye Lost and Found 2- 'Sunshine' papers. She has created these cards to give as a Christmas gift for a friend of hers that is not of the crafty variety.
Well, we all know how I feel about the new My Mind's Eye product- I LOVE it! These cards are fabulous and her friend is very lucky.

Thank you so much ladies for sharing with us!

an impromptu sort of day

2011-09-04T06:00:00.010-06:00

We left the house yesterday at 10:30am to go to the farmers market- that was all we had planned. Instead of coming home we went fall cloths shopping for Anna, got a car load of groceries and then headed home. Instead of going straight home we took the long way so Anna would fall asleep in the car, I missed my turn and the next thing I knew we were heading out of the city to The Devonian Botanical Gardens. Fun! Then instead of going home from there we went to a BBQ and finally at 10:45pm we were back at home. Whew! I'm the least spontaneous person I know (border line dud) so this was a HUGE stretch for me. We had such a great day, maybe I'm not such a dud after all.
Here are some of my favorite photos from our day.

With everything that we did yesterday it lent me little time to do anything creative but I could not bail out on day 3, I went for a simple, stress free approach and created this card using leftovers from Friday's layout. It's clean and simple but I really like it.

sharing

2011-09-03T23:18:00.002-06:00

I wanted to share this journal page with you that Ginger shared with me. She is taking an online class- Learn Something New Everyday by Shimelle and this is a page that she recorded her reflections for the day. I love this journal page and think it would also look fabulous on a 12x12 layout!
ps...Shimelle has some great online classes and inspiration on her blog, you can check her out here.

7 Gypsies Journal Page and various elements from a Treasured Memories exclusive kit

2 days down

2011-09-03T06:00:00.059-06:00

Yesterday was a fabulous sort of day, despite the fact that it felt like winter- I was sure it would snow. It's suppose to be +20 today, that's Alberta weather for you. Anyways, Anna & I drove to Camrose (it's half way for us) to meet my mom for lunch, it always makes me so happy to see how excited she gets when she sees her Gramma. There were quite a few squeals. Anna had her first meal from a kids menu (and I didn't have my camera- boo) For $5.99 she got pasta, apple juice and and an ice cream treat. I want to order from the kids menu!
We popped into Treasured Memories on the way home and I drooled over (and bought) some new product. The layout I made yesterday used the paper & embellishments from one of the new lines: Random Collection by Crate Paper and it is BEAUTIFUL! The chipboard elements are to die for. When everything in a line is fabulous it makes creating something so much easier. I love these pictures, especially the one of all three of us. I see pure joy when I look at it, it makes me so flippin' happy!

paper & embellishments: Crate

To read the original post for my 30 days of creativity in September pop on over here. Come hang out and make stuff with me.

sharing

2011-09-02T20:09:00.001-06:00

This is a layout that Ginger shared with me, she created this yesterday as part of the 30 day creative challenge and on online class she is taking. You can see more from Ginger here! She is inspiring!

papers- Afternoon Muse by Glitz

Ginger needed more room for photos & journaling so she created a little book and attached it to her layout. She took the time to add an eyelet and some embroidery floss to enable her to close the booklet. FABULOUS! Ginger, I love this layout, thanks for allowing me to share it here.

creative challenge- day one

2011-09-02T06:00:00.020-06:00

Good Morning! Day one of my 30 day creativity challenge- so far so good. As you may have noticed from the past ~~few~~ 5 layouts I am LOVING the new My Mind's Eye. Here is my layout from yesterday, you really can't go wrong with these fabulous papers & embellishments!

paper & embellishments: my mind's eye, alphas: american crafts, word stickers: authentique

I had lots of response to the challenge and that has me super excited- I can't wait to see what you have to share. A few things I forgot to mention to those of you participating- you will get your name entered in the draw each day that you participate for the week. This week has 4 days- Thursday through Sunday- 4 days to send me something- 4 chances to win. Otherwise each week will be Monday through Sunday. I will post your work on my blog in the evening on the following day giving you time to send me your work, for example Mondays work will go up Tuesday evening.

I am seriously so excited about all this!

lift me up thursday

2011-09-01T07:08:00.001-06:00

Source: elembee.com via Nadine on Pinterest

a challenge: 30 days of creativity in september

2011-08-29T09:56:00.001-06:00

I am challenging myself to create something everyday for the 30 days in September. Something, anything, whether it be a layouts, cards, altered art... you get the idea. I really want to work on layouts, I have envelopes of photos that need a home and I have so much beautiful product to play with- it just makes sense! I promise to share with you my creations each day. Now... rules... work related stuff doesn't count so this may be tougher than I am thinking since I have Christmas classes in the works! Incentive? I suppose I could treat myself to some sort of fabulous goodie if when I complete all 30 days.

Want to join me? Even if you just do this for one week, it will be fun and you'll have something to show for all your hard work and you may be inspired & motivated to keep going! Email me a photo or scan of your creation and I'll share them here, I'll link back to your blog if you have one and we'll all hang out looking at everyone's beautiful, amazing creations! Want a little incentive? I have goodies to giveaway... want to play now? At the end of each week I will put the names of people who shared with me in a jar and I'll choose a winner- There are 5 weeks in September- that's 5 chances to win something!!! Seriously.... how fun! Besides who doesn't like prizes!
If you're playing along:
- send your picture or scan via email me to nkwolansky[at]hotmail[dot]com
-include your name
-include your blog address if you have one
-if you used a fancy technique or did something extra awesome- tell me about it

I hope to see you here, otherwise I have 3 days to get ready to start sharing with you.
Have a great Monday!

September Card Class

2011-08-28T09:48:00.000-06:00

Thursday, September 8

6:00- 8:30pm

$38.50

call Treasured Memories @ 780-414-1540 to sign up

more my mind's eye

2011-08-26T19:12:00.000-06:00

paper & embellishments: my mind's eye, alphas: authentique

lift me up thursday

2011-08-25T07:32:00.002-06:00

Source: imgfave.com via Nadine on Pinterest

looking back

2011-08-24T09:27:00.003-06:00

This is the first layout I've done of her birth. I cried as I journaled, remembering how helpless I felt, how panic raced through me, how I frantically asked the doctors & nurses a million questions. I look at this photo and it hurts my heart but also reminds me to be so very grateful that she is healthy and happy.

paper & embellishments: My Mind's Eye

new scrapbooking goodies

2011-08-22T09:05:00.001-06:00

The new My Mind's Eye paper & embellishments came into stores last week and it is gorgeous! I had a budget... set way too low... so needless to say I went over! In my defense Chantel said that it has been at least a year since I have bought anything for myself. Can you believe that! A year! That must be a record or something! Here are two of the layouts I have finished so far with my new goodies.

paper & embellishments: my mind's eye, alphas: authentique

paper & embellishments: my mind's eye, alphas: american crafts

I just wanted to send a little shout out to the fabulous Ginger- Happy Birthday Ginger ! I hope you had a great day!

layout #6

2011-08-19T16:47:00.000-06:00

paper & stickers: sassafrass, alphas: american crafts, garland paper: pink paislee

lift me up thursday

2011-08-18T07:00:00.001-06:00

Such great advice!

Source: facebook.com via Nadine on Pinterest

remembering & finding time to create

2011-08-17T23:18:00.001-06:00

It was 10 years ago today that I got the phone call that my grandpa Wolansky had passed away, he was only 78. It feels like yesterday. I remember sitting there for days trying to think about the last time I had seen him, did I talk with him, did I hug him hello & goodbye? I couldn't remember, I still can't remember but I know I must have. I think about him all the time and I miss him, a lot. I still can't think about it all without crying, my girlfriend Annie tells me that that is how he is telling me he's with me. It makes me smile. I sometimes dream about him, about him sitting on the stool by the stove in my grandparent's kitchen, I can hear the the ticking of his pace maker in the dream and when I wake up I can smell his aftershave. It's surreal. I believe in guardian angels and I know that he is watching over all of us, helping to take care of us. It gives me peace of mind and makes losing him a little bit easier. Where ever you are- I love you.

On a lighter note... I have been creating and it feels fan-freakin'-tastic! I felt so excited to finish a layout for me. Since Monday I have made 5 layouts.... say WHAT! I'm excited to finally share some scrapbooking with you...

paper:MME, alphas:MK, word stickers: Authentique

paper: Simple Stories, alphas: American Crafts, buttons: Doodle Bug, stickers: MK

paper: Pink Paislee, alphas & label holders: Heidi Swapp, flower & button: Bazzill

papers, die cuts & word stickers: Authentique, clear flowers: Heidi Swapp, alphas: MK

paper & rubons: Bo Bunny, alphas: Glitz, journaling block & tags: 7 Gypsies, tickets & book plate: Tim Holtz

week in the life- sunday

2011-08-15T07:05:00.004-06:00

Photos for Sunday= a measly 17

watching sesame street

i love when she sleeps in my arms

playing with my paints

how is this comfortable

a trip to superstore

inside our fridge, I cleaned it out after this photo

nap

napping in the basement, too hot upstairs

writing my rent checks for the next year, so weird to write 2012

feeling a little crazy today, need to go to bed earlier

week in the life- saturday

2011-08-14T08:03:00.001-06:00

photos for saturday- 61

Morning Cardio

watching a show about cats & dogs and cheering

morning coffee

downtown market

saturday's self portrait...
with my brand new parking ticket- BOO!

looking up

picnic by the river

pretty girl

relaxing, simply wonderful here

hot, hot, hot

BBQ'd corn, so yummy

new sheet day, I love new sheet day

week in the life- friday

2011-08-13T11:15:00.000-06:00

photos for friday- 25

installing Anna's new chair

I finally surrendered and let the cats have the cubby

putting away 5 loads of laundry

organizing my new bag

friday's self portrait

washing bottles

paying the bills

Costco.
I could just bite those chubby little arms!

grateful for drive thru banking

This girl is officially 9 months old today!
Her doctor yesterday said she almost isn't a baby- my
eyes filled up with tears- yes she is!

making bottles

reading the flyers, looking for a deal

I just didn't have it in me to make dinner so
Panago was kind enough to do it for me.
Primo Veggie, no onion extra fire roasted tomato

week in the life- thursday

2011-08-12T10:06:00.000-06:00

Photos for Thursday- 18; I woke up sick and ended up going to bed sick. Little photos to show for the day.

Woke up so sick, Cory stayed home today to take care
of Anna & I. I popped a few advil,
put in ear plugs and went back to bed

Anna @ the doctor

After the doctor we went to the Prairie Bistro in St. Albert for lunch.

Home made, local, organic food!

A clock at The Enjoy Center that I dream of one day owning.

Road construction everywhere in Edmonton.

Anna is ready for her next size car seat.

Trying out diaper bags at West Coast Kids

I heart these two.

self portrait for thursday

A card class last night at Treasured Memories.

week in the life- wednesday

2011-08-11T15:20:00.000-06:00

Photos for Wednesday- 75

at 5am this is where I slept until 6:30

at 6:30am she woke up again, I picked her up and she fell
asleep wrapped around me, I tried to go back to sleep but
it really wasn't very comfy so I soaked her up, read and
was so very grateful for this moment, these cuddles

my first ever plant to actually flower- a lipstick plant

I measure the majority of my food, I am really trying to
loose the weight gained before & after my pregnancy

love this cup from sweet KC, love my coffee

vacuuming and carting around a cranky babe

this picture pretty much summed up my whole day

showering at the gym

moving everything off the lawn so it could be mowed

trying to feed Anna while Hannah tries to get cuddles

swiffer vac- seriously awesome invention

Tuesday's self portrait- check out my pony {or my stump if you wish}

kitting class product

I seriously love So You Think You Can Dance
Please let Melanie win- I love love love her!