Pigtails Paper Trails

Customers are so Great!

2011-07-01T06:55:00.000-04:00

Just yesterday I heard from a customer that purchased an SVG file. She was sharing this cute album she made from the cutting file. I just had to share it with you. It is so darn cute! I bet she can't wait to add pictures! Check it out. Check out her blog, too.... Running with Scissors! Thanks for sharing with me!

Kathleen

Fourth of July Wreath DIY

2011-06-14T13:17:00.001-04:00

you need: a styrofoam wreath, red sheets of felt, quilters pins and ribbon.

Take the felt and cut into squares. Insert each square into the wreath using pins. Once you are done, use Blue ribbon to tie a bow. You can even cut out some stars to go on the ribbon! This wreath was super easy and looks fabulous! Can't wait to hang it on the door!

Time to drink champagne...Subway Art

2011-06-13T10:34:00.000-04:00

and dance on the table... Subway Art. I painted a canvas black then cut out the letters on my cricut and mod podged them onto the canvas. As you can see the glue it still drying, but I love it!

My Scrapbook Nook!

2011-06-09T16:13:00.000-04:00

I have a little scrapbook Nook. The cabinets were custom made by Papa. I love them! So much is hidden inside! I have jars for my buttons and knick knacks! I use a basket hamper to hide all my ribbon. I have Ikea rods hanging from underneath the cabinets and baskets and cups storing all sorts of things. I also installed a pegboard on the side of my cabinets to hang stickers and flowers. I love my little area and live there most of the time. Glad you could take a look!

Paper Rose SVG for $1.50

2011-06-04T08:43:00.001-04:00

Cutout this Paper Rose and then grab it by the end, wrap it around a pencil or round object and roll it up. Place a dab of glue or a glue dot on the end and push down to make paper rose. It is so fun and easy!

Kathleen

Ribbon SVG for $1.50!

2011-06-03T17:12:00.000-04:00

This ribbon SVG cuts out in 4 pieces! It layers to make a precious ribbon! Have fun!

Sugar and Spice 12 x 12 Layout!

2011-06-03T16:38:00.000-04:00

I just finished this layout of my girls and love it! I used the Crate Paper line Emma's Shoppe Collection. I also used the new Bazzill Basics paper perfectly pleated as a border. I added some Recollections flowers and tada... It turned out great and was super easy. Thanks for taking a peek!

Kathleen

Birthday Wall Perpetual Calendar

2011-05-16T15:52:00.000-04:00

I bought this kit from my local scrapbook store to make this calendar. It came with calendar stamps and cardstock buttons and clothespins. I purchased the frame from Kirklands. It was a clearanced picture and I removed the artwork. I used twine that I stapled to the back of the frame to hold the months of the year. It was so easy and looks great hanging on my wall. I love it.

Candy Buffet Birthday Party Idea!

2011-04-14T17:05:00.000-04:00

This year my son wants to have a candy buffet at his birthday party. I spent a few months collecting glassware from local thrift shops and washing them up. Next, I found candy to fill up the jars and vases. It was a lot of fun setting it all up and I can't wait for the kids to dig in.

New SVG Files Paper Flowers and Pennant Banner!

2011-02-26T09:38:00.000-05:00

You get all the four files above to make layered paper flowers for $5.00!!

You can curl the edges with the end of paintbrush or pen to add a nice effect! Lots of fun!

These are SVG files for use with Sure Cuts a Lot program and the Cricut!

Here is a link to purchase them! I use Paypal!

Also, you can go to my website and check out my new pennant banner for only $1.00

Link Here: http://www.pigtailspapertrails.com

Back and Lovin' It!

2011-02-17T08:28:00.000-05:00

I am back on ebay and lovin' it! So far no bids but I am loving the excitement of making new things! I was in a rut for awhile I am going to be quite honest. My sister is the creative genius and I can't keep up with her. I am happy to be trying to follow in her footsteps. Anyway, here is a sneek peak at some mini albums I have listed and a link to them. Check them out if you get a chance!

Link to Album

link to Album 2

New Things on Etsy

2010-11-29T17:50:00.003-05:00

These headbands have been so much fun to make. I used Moda fabrics, lots of ribbon and tulle and some fabulous felt flowers that are topped off with rhinestones! Email us if you are interested or check them out on Etsy!

Homeschool Clipboards

2010-08-27T14:43:00.000-04:00

Do You Doodle?

2010-08-18T21:11:00.004-04:00

Our mother always doodled--while she was on the phone, mostly. I remember as a child watching her talking to someone and making "lovely" designs all over whatever she could write on--scraps of paper, cereal box, old receipts--well, you've got the picture. Anyway, she has passed this wonderful trait on. I used to think it was just one of those things that you said to yourself, "I will never do blah, blah, blah just like my mom!" Then I saw this doodle by Stephanie (www.homegrownhospitality.typepad.com) : Its not like I haven't heard and read this verse many times, but this "doodle" really spoke to me during the past few months. So, I began to see that "doodling" can be more than just lines and flowers and words on a paper--they can actually have a purpose. So, Thanks Mom! and Thanks to Stephanie for sharing your love and talent!

Here is the link for the class (hurry up it begins in a few days...): http://www.etsy.com/listing/53815575/doodle-101-twenty-ten

Anyway, Stephanie is real and here class will be real fun. The class is self-paced and taught by Stephanie Ackerman. Here are her own words,

"I have been blessed with a skill by the good LORD to Doodle...and the great news is..so have you!

Last year I decided to create a "sorta like an online class" and I taught lots of people all over the world how I doodle via a special online site and based on emails, comments and inquiries from those who missed out on the Doodle 101 class, it is back by popular demand!

This is a total SELF-PACED, "do it with your own stuff" "at your own pace" "whenever you want" class and starting Monday, August 23 - through Sept. 27, I will teach you so get ready to relax, learn, be inspired and best of all learn to DOODLE!

Doodle 101 Twenty Ten

Join me, via a special "password protected" site, for the next six weeks as I teach you the way I taught myself to doodle!

This SIX WEEK class is $25.00 & will include:

Six Weekly Lessons
A color Workbook download
Coloring pages to print out...and color!
Full color printables to frame or simply tape up to LOVE for you to invite & encourage your friends to join us, so please..."Remind you of the things you already know, just forgot to remember"
TWO doodle alphabet fonts for your computer
A place to link your blog for the others in the class to see your work
and you just really never know....

Once you have purchased this class, a link, user name and password will be sent to you via email. This is an "honor system" class which means that I trust that you will not share the password with anyone else but of course, I would LOVE for you to invite & encourage your friends to join us, so please....pass this newsletter on!"

This is exciting--Do YOU doodle? Can't wait to see what's in store.

Happy Doodling!

Be Our Guest...Be Our Guest (I still love Beauty and the Beast!)

2010-08-14T05:00:00.001-04:00

These aren't new things we have done, but they are some of my favorites. When I think "Guest Book," I immediately think of weddings, but my mother-in-law keeps one at her house and the grandkids love to write in it when they have been over for a night. She, of course, also uses her guest book for other "guests", too!

If you don't have a guest book for your house, its such a beautiful thing to display and an easy way to keep your memories when you have guests over--whether it be a slumber party sleepover for your kids or when grandma and grandpa come over--these are the times you don't want to forget. One of my favorite things to see is the handwritings of the children when they were first learning to write or that special great grandmother--what a cherished item to have.

Give us an email and we would love to create that guest book for you!

Thanks for Being Our Guest,

~Rebecca

"Life Is Good"--not always Easy...

2010-08-13T12:22:00.005-04:00

How can you not LOVE the new line from Echo Park called "Life is Good!"? For the upcoming fall classes at Anthologies, I created this wall organizer that has everything from a dry erase board, note clips (for reminders, shopping lists, invites, to do's), 4 matted frames (for your children, quotes, pets), 12 month school calendar, file system and pencil and dry erase holder. It fits perfectly on your refrigerator--its on mine in these pics and I was so sad to have to bring it to the store. It would also look great on your wall or your office...Sign up quickly before all the spots are taken... www.anthologiesbyme.com

On a side note...Life is Good...today, my hubby and I are celebrating our 16th Anniversary! My oldest son said this morning that "its a good thing, ya'll said 'in sickness and in health!'" And so I am reminding myself that although "Life is Good"--that doesn't mean its easy for any of us. My prayers today are with my sweet brother and his family. Life is Good, bro, its just not easy. Keep the faith! Katie and I love you and your sweet and precious family!

Always,

~Rebecca

New Stuff to tell you about...

2010-08-10T16:53:00.005-04:00

Hello again! Its that time of year--again and the kids are all heading off to school. My sister and I are wondering if we are the only two parents in the country who are secretly celebrating this wonderful day--the FIRST day of school!!

In between my physical therapy (I still can't drive :( !!) and keeping up with etsy orders, I got an exciting invitation to create some samples for upcoming classes at Anthologies--a local scrapbook store in the Dallas Fort Worth area. Here are some sneaks at two of the samples. The first one is entitled "Oh the Places We've Been" and opens on both the right and left side and is a generous 12 x 12 "mini" album. The album has lots of places for photos and journaling and includes both chipboard and acrylic pages in various sizes and shapes. Sign up quickly at the store before all the spots are filled up! You don't want to miss the chance to make this whimsical album for your fun vacation memories!

The second sneak peak is of a 6 page power layout that was created by 3 of the store designers.

There are lots more classes and pictures of the classes at the website, www.anthologiesbyme.com so head on over and see for yourself. Or better yet, visit the store in person--here's the address: Anthologies, 129 W. Harwood Rd, Hurst, TX 76054.

I promise to show you more of these creations and I can't wait to show pics of the new Wall Organizer using Echo Park's new line but I have to wait until the Anthologies newsletter goes out...so stay tuned...more stuff to come.

yours truly,

~Rebecca

Wondering where we have been?

2010-08-04T10:21:00.000-04:00

We are both staying busy and have added some things to the shop. Here are a few message blocks that just went into the Etsy Shop- click here to visit PIGTAILS PAPER TRAILS
Don't forget we can personalize them for free with a bible verse or quote or make a custom one for you in colors you choose! Check out the store for more details!

New Journals on Etsy!

2010-07-28T15:47:00.000-04:00

I have added several journals to the Etsy Shop!

Click the link and take a look! Great Gifts at a Great Price!

Thanks for looking!

Breakin' Up is Hard to do!

2010-07-16T05:11:00.010-04:00

Ever have one of those friends that you thought you could trust and just when you needed them most, they bailed on you--they just weren't there for you? Well, that's what I have likened my left leg to. Yesterday morning, I got out of bed and my husband is right there helping me get dressed--because there is still no bending, lifting or twisting and then the legs don't all work. After dressing, I turned to get my cane and down I went. Thankfully I was next to the bed, so no harm done but like I just said, when I needed it most, it deserted me. So my leg is no longer a part of me--our relationship is in a friend stage and a not too good one at that! I will give it more time so there is no "break up" here, but hurry up leg!

Last time I blogged I may have told you that my appointment with my neurosurgeon was coming up, well it was Wednesday. I was very anxious to see him because my back feels great but the problem is my legs and I just didn't want him to say that my legs weren't his problem since he operated on the back. This may make no since to you, but I have a complex with doctors breaking up with me.

Here is the long and short of it--Skip on down if this bores you :) About 8 months ago, I had another appointment with my spine neurosurgeon who I had seen for my neck fusion in Dec 2007 and now he was seeing me for my back after my wreck in June 2009. I was worried about him not being able to help me at one point and he told me he had "lots of tricks up his sleeve, so not to worry." Multiple injections, physical therapy sessions, and invasive tests later, I went in for an appointment with him for the next step in helping me--the next trick in his bag. He took one look at me and said "Its over between us." Just like that he broke up with me. To make things worse, he said, "I am sending you to a Deformity Doctor." Now this was the first time I had these words spoken to me and believe me they were hard to hear. All I could do was hold back tears, because the doctor I had grown to love and trust, not only broke up with me but told me I was deformed. So that is the long and short of it--I am sure there is a name for it--but I have some anxiety over doctor break-up!

But my new doctor didn't break up with me, in fact he still remains "cautiously optimistic" that all of the nerves will come back and I will be walking again without a cane but it could be weeks, months--no one knows. He said TIME is the only thing. He did say that he thinks that I have a nerve stretch injury that is not normal and was not anticipated but is consistent with weakness, nerve pain and numbness.

The good stuff--no infection in the back, it looks great, I can swim and he cleared my back to drive (boy, you should have seen my husband's face when he said that!) No I am not cleared to drive, I can't even get in the car by myself but as for the back goes is what he means. Once the legs work is what he means. It was pretty funny--the look on Steve's face!

The bad stuff--I am on a nerve pain med and it makes you gain weight. I am on a pretty high dose. I don't know if that increases the chances or not but I have gained 10 pounds since the surgery. Of course, my neurosurgeon said that this is not the time to cut calories since you need calories to heal the fusion and you can't run on a treadmill but UGH!!! who wants to be gaining weight--NOT ME!

To be honest, it all comes down to TIME, but man, I feel the clock ticking. My mother-in-law is here for one more week, then school starts two weeks after that. At that point, its all me. I'm running the house, the four kids and I have to get back to work if we would like to eat and pay tuition...So today I am going to focus on two verses: Ecclesiastes 3:11a "He has made everything beautiful in His time." and Psalm 31:15a "My times are in your hands." Everything beautiful--WOW; but my times are in His hands--much better than in my hands, because I would just screw things up!

So would you like to see the before and after pictures. This is very personal and I have debated on whether its too personal to post on my blog, but you have been through a lot with me and more than that have offered so much prayers and encouragement so here goes: here is the before picture

Pretty ugly isn't it? You don't have to tell me, I've come to terms with it. When you are sent to a spinal deformity neurosurgeon, you know it must be ugly.

But remember, "He makes all things beautiful in His time." Here is one of those things: Drum Roll, please...

Whatcha think? Pretty good, huh? Now, I know its not perfectly straight, but being the great doctor that he is, he wanted to get it straight enough but still leave as much mobility as possible. Yes, he could have straightened it all the way and at 38 years old I would be more like Frankenstein and remember, I prefer Princess Scar. So isn't it wonderful? More importantly the back feels wonderful! But you can see how I could have a nerve stretch injury after the manipulation it took to get this back straighter and this is ONLY the front view. He had to straighten it from back to front because Quasimodo was where I was headed.

Now enough about about all of that...I told you my mom-in-law is here, Cece is what the boys affectionately call her and Cece has be great. Of course she is trying to keep the house in order--she said she was becoming "Super Nanny" last night after she went into the boys room--4 boys sharing a room has its issues. She is also teaching the younger two how to swim and perfecting the older two's strokes. Last night we got to hang out together and watch last weeks Bachelorette on my computer. So I am very blessed to have a mom-in-law that I love! and one that would take several weeks out of her very short summer--she is a teacher and her school starts in a few weeks also.

Yesterday, we had to leave the house at 7:30 for dental appointments for the boys. One had to have 4 cavities filled and the other had to have his "shark tooth" removed. About a year ago, he told me, "Mom, I have a tooth growing in the roof of my mouth." It was one of those times, when you say, okay, I'll look at it later. I'm sure, a tooth in the roof of his mouth. I just assumed he ate something and needed to brush or whatever. He's a boy, right? Several weeks later, I happened to be talking to him and SAW the tooth. Oh my, it was a runaway--a runaway tooth that was supposed to be like all the other teeth in a nice, neat little row. I immediately had him checked out by a dental friend, who calmed me down and said this was no runway tooth, but a bud that formed in the womb (always goes back to the mom) and it was just extra and would need to be taken out. So from then on, he had a shark tooth. On the way home from the dentist, my mother-in-law is driving (God bless her) and we are on back roads and I am trying to reverse directions. One child has half of a numb mouth and is drooling, one is hurting because now he has a hole in the roof of his mouth and the baby (he's 3) is saying his tummy hurts and needs to throw up. Thank God, I had a ziploc bag which made it to him in time. Cece was so patient, but I'm sure she was saying "please get me home!!! This family is crazy!"

I know that I am rambling and getting distracted but before I forget here are the pictures of my mom's message block. She loved it!

Back on the creative front--I have had a little time to sneak back to my work room and get some work done. We get to take a two day lakehouse visit and I am so excited to bring them a guest book to keep at their lakehouse for their many guests to record memories of their stay. I had fun playing around with blues and browns and here is the finished book:

Well, its now 5:30 am and I am going to try to get some more sleep before everyone is up. The only thing I hear are the roosters crowing--those dang roosters started at 3 am this morning. Oh well--have a blessed day and remember have a beautiful day because "He has made all things beautiful in His time!"

~Rebecca~

Winner of the Journal Giveaway! Trudy!

2010-07-13T10:31:00.000-04:00

Thanks to all the well wishes! The winner of the journal giveaway is Trudy Honeycutt ~ Folk Artist

Trudy email us at pigtailspapertrails@gmail.com your info and which journal you would like! I will also send you an email through your blog to confirm. Thanks!

Last Chance to enter the Journal Giveaway!

2010-07-11T18:10:00.000-04:00

Don't forget to enter the journal giveaway--it ends July 13! You have a chance to win your pick of one of these beautiful journals! Go here to enter and leave a comment! JOURNAL GIVEAWAY

"I Can Do It Myself...," says the Princess Scar Lady

2010-07-09T09:15:00.008-04:00

I can hear my mom answer, "Yes, you can, but if you would listen and do it this way, it would be much easier." or "If you would let me help you..." I hear my Father telling me the same thing over 38 years later, "I can do all things through HIM who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13; Rest, my daughter and "Be Still and Know that I AM God." Psalm 46:10.

Whew--am I that slow of a learner? I really made good grades in school, actually, great grades...I told my Rehab Doctors when they handed me my report, "Just so you know, I only make "A's!" SO why do I have to be continually reminded? God has such a sense of humor because on top of that I am blessed to have four boys--all extremely competitive and are perfectionist. Two of them, like me, must be continually reminded--"Yes, you can do it!" But a better way is "through HIM!"

So that is on my heart today: (1) Be Still; (2) Through Him

On a different note, I have lots of things to share. The first being pics of my gift on the way to my mom. Hopefully she won't read this post until after she gets her gift. Hurry up Priority Mail!!!

I chickened out and only posted a few sneaks...just in case she reads it today, I don't want to spoil it for her. I will post the full pics, later, I promise. Plus a giveaway, that I will have soon! Yay!

I also wanted to follow up on Teresa Collins. If you haven't visited her blog, you must. She is absolutely incredible and the product she is about to debut, I can NOT wait to have it! I won't even describe it because her blog tells you everything and I won't do it justice. So go here and check it out: http://www.teresacollins.typepad.com/

Yesterday, I was feeling a little down and I received another email from her with the most encouraging words and how she was thinking of me. Oh my, it just blessed me more than words. Many of you may already know this but Teresa suffered a stroke a few years back that changed her life. You can read about it here: http://www.teresacollins.typepad.com/teresa_collins/2010/05/weekly-gratitude-guest-spot.html

get out your tissues...

Amazing is all I can say! Thanks Teresa, again, for your time and encouragement! I'm waiting for your new line and new products so I can get busy!!

Yes, I am all over the place on this blog. But yesterday, one of my bestest friends came over to swim. She has 3 kiddos that my boys just love and so the dads and kids swam for a few hours. Somehow, I missed this bestest friend's birthday so now she gets an extra special gift. Her youngest, Addy, gave me a big hug and asked why my leg wasn't working and why I had a cane...and so I told her a little and told her that if her daddy wasn't in the room then I would let her see my scar--the one that Aaron says looks like an alligator. She looked at me with her big brown eyes and said "Miss Becca, I think you have a Princess Scar!" Thank God for little girls! I don't have one, but I am thankful for my friends who let me borrow theirs! Love you Mandy and Happy Birthday!!

xoxoxoxoxo,

~Rebecca~ (with my Princess Scars)

through Him, Be Still, through Him, Be Still, through Him, Be Still, through Him, Be Still...

Orangey Milk, "No your legs are not bleeding", and other random updates...

2010-07-07T05:57:00.000-04:00

Hello sweet friends~

Sorry, this post is way late...I did a great job in the hospital but I stayed on a much better schedule without 4 very important, should I say, interruptions?? I don't mean that in a negative way, its just that I want to make time to do a little "dance" when my 3 year old poops in the potty and, of course, celebrate with chocolate, make sure that the tooth fairy knows to come (you must read the tooth fairy blog post if you haven't already) when my 7 year old loses a top tooth, and help my older two get the latest and greatest apps on their so important iTouches. (sorry for the run-on sentence, I got carried way) :)

I do have a funny picture, but first must tell you the story behind it. When I was in the hospital, the boys woke up one morning and fixed cereal. After eating HALF of the cereal they realized that the milk did not taste right. After checking the date--one week past the due date--they decided to leave their dad a note on the fridge to WARN him. What about throwing it out, well "Mom doesn't want us to waste food!" So here's the note:

Some things are just priceless!

As for my progress--I wish I could tell you I was doing jumping jacks, but I am still with my leg is numb, crawling with acid and ants and someone (hubby or sweet boys) has to put my legs in bed, out of the car, in the shower, etc...Last night, I made hubby sit up and look at my legs because I just knew they were bleeding all over. He assured me there was NO blood! :(

I AM getting stronger physically and mentally. My back is awesome and STRAIGHT! My stamina is much better. Therapy is slow with the professionals--I have to get on the insurance company today. But my hubby has stepped in and he does an excellent job with keeping me on my toes--yes, I do toe raises very well. Its the marching and leg lifts that don't work. I had a very rough therapy the other day with my husband. The exercise was quite simple: sit down with your knees about 2 feet apart. Now slide your feet together. Huh--no movement. I am engaging the muscle and telling the feet and legs to move, but no movement except for the tears that were filling up buckets. My hubby kept saying, "You can do it, Bec, keep trying. Come on, let me help you!" no movement. I had to do 20! After much trying, encouragement, I was able to move about 1/2" and then a little more and by the 20th one, I was able to inch my feet together. It wasn't pretty, BUT I DID IT! So that is just a little insight into my progress. I know that when I am running and jumping again, that I will be able to do anything!!! Can't wait to fly!

On a more positive note, the whole fam went to Target. My friend has been quite under the weather and is recovering from a surgery that removed a tumor from her pancreas (and much more). We had so much fun picking out breakfast goodies for her sweet family and taking them to her so I could hug her. They weren't healthy goodies but I had another friend tell me that in desperate situations she has prayed that God would turn that poptart into a fruit salad. So there you go--more words of wisdom!

My mom left on Sunday and that was quite rough. We all need a mom like I have been blessed with. You know the kind that walks in and knows exactly what everyone needs and then does it. She understands all the different personalities of the boys (her grandsons) and tends to the needs of each one and when the 3 year old throws a fit, it doesn't faze her because of course she has seen it before. :) Not from me, of course, but let me tell you about my brother...:) I miss you mom, we all do! Thanks for being there when I walked for the second time! and thanks for EVERYTHING! Okay, I must stop now, because I don't want to cry--again and again...!

Creatively, I am working. That is one reason I haven't blogged because I wanted to show pictures, but I promise I will show pics soon. I am working on a gift for my mom and also some great little goodies that I am putting in my thank you cards for all of the wonderful people who have helped us. I will do a few extra for giveaways. I'll let you know about that soon. So pics are coming, I promise!

If you are wondering where my sis is, she is on a much needed and deserved vacation--if you can call it that with 7 kids (3 of her own and my brother's 4).

And, oh my goodness, I almost forgot! I got an email from Teresa Collins. If you are wondering who she is, well I will forgive you and here is a link to her blog: http://www.teresacollins.typepad.com/ She just so happens to be my favorite paper designer ever. After my last message block, my sister encouraged me to send her an email and picture of the block since I used so many of her products. Not only did she email me back, but she also was so sweet in wanting to know about my progress and she said that she LOVED the message block. Thank you Teresa for taking time to do that--it really blessed me!

Now off to sleep, as you can see the sleep meds are not working--been up since 1:30 and it is now almost 5:00, am, that is...Pics coming soon!
~Rebecca~

It's A Boy--First Message Block after Surgery

2010-07-02T11:11:00.004-04:00

I had the best Rehab Doctor ever--Dr. Adair-and she was weeks from her due date, July 12, for her 2nd baby. You would have never known because she looked beautiful and was so attentive to my needs. Anyway, I wanted to give her a special baby gift, so I made her a message block. Yay!!!!! I actually was able to go into my workspace (more on that later) and CREATE! This was so fulfilling and such a milestone for me.

Today is 3 weeks post-op, and although, the leg is still not working, I am getting better and stronger, both physically and metally! :) (thanks to my rehab Dr and my mom, family, friends, and all the meds!!)

So here is the message block--let me know if you want one. :) Always for sale in our etsy store--http://www.etsy.com/shop/PigtailsPaperTrails

Blessings to all,
~Rebecca~

Twilight Edward Free SVG GSD Cutting file for Cricut and Silhouette

2010-07-01T08:31:00.000-04:00

In honor of the new Twilight movie and all of the fans out there I made a free cutting file for your scrapbook pages of your movie pictures! Here it is--- an Edward silhouette! Hope you enjoy!

Free SVG Download

Free GSD Download

Don't forget to go here to sign up for our journal giveaway!

Journal Giveaway! Signup By Leaving a Comment!

2010-06-30T15:31:00.000-04:00

Thanks everyone for your prayers and well wishes for my sister as she has been going through surgery and recovery. I know many of you have been following her story on this blog and I wanted to say thanks! I am hosting a Journal giveaway! Check it out! It's your choice of one of the three journals pictured below! You get to pick one of them out for yourself! To enter just leave a comment on this blog and you will automatically be entered into the drawing! The contest ends on July 13, 2010! Thanks!

Here are your choices:

1.Friendship Journal

2. Monkey Journal

3. Scripture Journal

Don't forget to leave a comment to win!

It's Not the Speed that Matters, It's the Getting There!

2010-06-27T06:13:00.005-04:00

This is not necessarily the way my family see things: "It's not the SPEED that matters, It's the getting there." Come, On, when you play a lot of ball, your hubby is a coach and my boys have all been blessed with speed --everything is based around competition and speed--and yes, getting there, is important and the ultimate goal but we like to get there FAST. But first let's just get something straight, I was not particularly blessed with speedy running but I do work very fast and am quite competitive. We do not need to talk about my hubby, you can only imagine. So needless to say when I received a card and devotional book in the mail from a special teacher friend at my boys' school (she taught two of them, so she knows my family pretty well), I thought the card was too perfect for me. I needed to be told to SLOW down and many times we don't listen to our moms or spouses, so this card I listened too!

I am HOME and let me tell you, you know how when you get home from vacation and you walk into your home and you are so glad to be there. Well, its not like that at all. It's more! There is an appreciation beyond words and I realized how much I LOVE my home and my Boys and my Hubby and just all the little things that make it MY home.

I did sleep well in my bed, but I thought I would sleep all night and not need the scheduled meds that were given me in the hospital, but I was so wrong. So thankfully, my husband was prepared to give me the appropriate meds when I woke up in so much pain. You know the back pain seems to be much more manageable--its a healing pain. But the leg pain and nerve pain, oh man, I just pray that those nerves will get better, because lets just say that is awful pain.

Enough about all that, yesterday was an important day for me to be home, because son #3 turned 7 and I just wanted to take part in the day and boy, I did! We started with a little baseball and although its late June in Texas, I was seated in the shade with the wind blowing and I had a wonderful chair that Kristy bought and we outfitted it with back and bottom cushions--the life! My mom, who has been working like crazy and never once complaining, hauled everything to the park and we watched sons #1 and #2 play a little baseball. I considered it my physical therapy for the day since none is scheduled over the weekend. After the games we had lunch and ice cream at Braums and then I had a long long nap. My mom picked up the slack and made a yummy birthday cake and finished gathering all the little odds and ends for a homemade birthday party complete with a dual Slip-N-Slide that was the hit of the party! Now when I say party--when you have 4 kids--you have a party!

Today I am up a little early waiting for the hour to pass so I can have some meds. But once we get this pain under control, I think I will do a little creating today. Nothing fancy, but I have lots of thanks I need to return so I have some ideas rolling around...:)

But I will take it slow, because "It's not the speed that matters, It's the getting there!" Thanks Laura D!!!

Gentle Hugs to All!
Rebecca

Homeward Bound

2010-06-25T07:54:00.005-04:00

Can you hear me screaming? Its a happy scream! Cuz, sister, I am GOING HOME! YAY! Tomorrow is my #3 son's 7th birthday and my two older boys have baseball games and I can't wait to be their mommy again! As for my progress, it has been amazing, especially being that my knee is still numb and the nerve pain is pretty bad. The meds have stabilized lots of the pain and the therapy has strengthened both legs. I will be using a cane and a gate belt (which someone must hold when I walk). Therapy will be in-home for the first 3 weeks which will be great and my restrictions are no bending, lifting,twisting, pushing, pulling which is defined as

no getting pots out of lower cabinets, no pulling weeds or filling the dog dish with food (bending)
no putting groceries away, picking up loads of laundry, putting toys away (lifting)
no vacuumming, sweeping, moving furniture to get the ball that rolled under (pushing)
no washing, drying, folding clothes, no cooking, no cleaning bathrooms, making beds, changing sheets (twisting, among others)
making kids do what they are supposed to do, taking dog for walk (pulling)

Whew! Glad I got through that one! Now I need to print it and put it on the fridge for reminders for all!

What it doesn't say is no creating so I can't wait to get some stuff done and I will let you know and get it posted. My soul needs it!

Leave me a comment if you think I have left something off my list and I will add to it!

I will leave you with a song that makes me smile as I head out of the hospital door...

Blessings,
Rebecca

Everyone Has A Story...

2010-06-24T07:47:00.003-04:00

One thing that my mom and I have learned while we have been here at Zale Lipshy Hospital in Dallas is that "Everyone has a story." I am not just talking with the patients, I'm talking about the nurses, techs, people on the elevator. These stories have touched our lives and yes, many times made us cry. They have also given me the strength to keep working everyday, because we all have a purpose and I know part of my purpose was to be here for a time but the rest is out of here. :) My neurosurgeon came to see me yesterday and it was so good to see him. When someone changes your life that much, you feel this connection to them that you can not describe. He didn't just "straighten" me out, he has enabled me to get on with my purpose in a new pay--definitely without pain.
One of the questions that I asked him was why did my legs not work and were you surprised that my legs did not work. He answered that he has no idea why my legs did not work and yes he was surprised. During the entire surgery my nerves are monitored on my arms and legs and at no time during the 10 surgery was there any indication of this problem. So scientifically, he has no answer. And if I haven't told you this, my Neurosurgeon is "the Man". People come from all over to see him and I am so blessed that he picked me to fix!

So how wonderful to believe in a God that has an answer and to be able to trust that this was part of His perfect plan.

"Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand." Proverbs 19:21

Now on to a few of the many stories:

Nurse Chidi--a beautiful mother and wife from Nigeria who came to America 8 years ago because she won the lottery. No, not the money lottery that you can buy at any gas station in Texas. Its a lottery that countries offer tickets to their people that have met certain requirements and if they win they are able to take their spouses and children to America and live and become citizens. Wow!!! She is still playing the lottery for other family members so they can have a better life.

A child in Children's Medical Center gift shop--her grandmother stopped us to tell us about her 8 year old granddaughter who she has raised since birth. The child has a disease that only 165 other people in the world have. She has spent most of her time at Children's Medical Center in Dallas. She has no sweat glands, has had pneumonia 19 times and is blind in one eye, among other things. She said that people often tell her, "she is so lucky to have you to raise her." The grandmother looked at us and said, "No, I answer, We are so blessed to have her."

And the last story I will share has to do with the BP oil crisis. I feel so connected to the crisis since I was raised along the Louisiana coast, then lived half of my married life in Baton Rouge, graduated from LSU and had two children there. Most of our family still lives in various parts of South Louisiana and is being affected directly by this disaster. So I was talking to my Occupational Therapist whose family lives in New Orleans in an Asian community that they have just rebuilt after hurricane Katrina. She said that her mother Lai (pronounced "lie") just lost her job from an oyster company that had been in business for 135 years! If you have eaten oysters at any restaurant in south Louisisana they probably came from this company. She said that her mother is getting some supplemental income from BP, but the many fishermen are not getting supplemented because most of their income was a cash based income. Anyway, this just broke my heart. These people just finished putting their lives back together after Katrina and now this.

I keep going back to Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you" declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."

So here's to the stories that everyone has to tell and here's to the promise of a hope and a future!

Still learning to walk and fly in so many ways,
Rebecca

Jojuan, if you are reading this...you can do this, sister! Love you!

Squats, Stair Climbing and Laundry, Oh My!

2010-06-23T07:12:00.003-04:00

My day (Tuesday) started with great news from my doctor. She said they have a tentative discharge date of Friday, June 25! I was so excited because my #3 child's birthday is June 26 and I have told him for months, "Of Course, Mommy will be home from the hospital in plenty of time for your birthday. I'm only going to stay around 5 days."

Then around noon the Evaluation Team comes in your room to give you your report card: Rehab Doctor, Charge Nurse, Physical Therapy Head, My Physical Therapist, Social Worker. They told me how well I had progress in just one week and here were my grades. Before they could hand them to me, I looked back at the nurse and said, "I only make A's!" She smiled and assured me that I had all A's and as my physical therapist left the room, he looked back and said "A-"! what a hoot they are.

Physical Therapy was tough. Initially they wanted to decide if my falls were due to fatigue or something else. So they recreated the fall situation where I had to step up and over a 2 inch platform. I immediately fell on the downward step so they determined it was not from fatigue but from strength and sensation. I still can not feel that knee and thigh. The rest of therapy include--walking 800 feet back and form with a cane and someone holding my gate belt, I biked for 10 minutes, did 30 squats, 30 standing hamstring lifts, 30 side leg lifts, 30 marches (very hard for me), climbed 12 steps up and down, played a little modified basketball and soccer. In Occupational Therapy, I had to wash my own laundry! At least I have clean clothes! I just need to make sure that my hubby doesn't get any ideas, because the deal he is has laundry all summer...

After Therapy, I wheeled down to see my hubby and 4 boys and couldn't wait to hold and hug and kiss eash one. Please don't take that for granted! Hug and Kiss them when they are stinky--it doesn't matter; life is too short. After they left mom took me on a ride to Children's Medical Hospital which I can see from my room. I had wanted to go to the gift shop to see if I could find any birthday gifts. Many a nights, I have thanked God that it was me in the hospital and not one of my children. We had a great time in the 100 degree Texas heat and lost track of time. When we returned I was nervous because we had been gone several hours--I didn't want to find my name in red "Rebecca Turner-Missing" but although they had looked for me, they knew I was visiting family downstairs.

The doctor said that she was thrilled with my progress and was hopeful that all feeling and strength would return in the weeks and months ahead. However, there is no guarantee that there is not permanent nerve damage. I will just have to keep working and see what the next few months have in store.

Last night I had the most pain that I have had since I have been here--nerve pain and muscle spasms-- and after exhausting just about everything they have for me to take, I took a valium at 1:00 am and that settled some spasmimg down and I got 5 hours of good sleep.

Today will be another day of intense workout, but I'm ready for it. My creative brain is buzzing around so I can't wait to get home and start making!

Thanks for your prayers and encouragement!

Rebecca

Pride Comes Before the Fall

2010-06-22T07:31:00.004-04:00

Alright, maybe I was a little cocky posting my picture with my cane. (You have to see the end of yesterday's post to see it because I won't be reposting that pic again !) But honestly, I was just real excited to be moving to the next stage of rehab and progress and wanted to share my stylish look :)!

At my 3rd therapy session of the day, I was practicing stepping over things-very small things that I would normally push out of the way. On the last step I had to step on this 2 inch platform and then step down. On the step down, the back leg (which I can't feel) just buckled and I went down. My PT who was holding my gatebelt was able to grab me before I hit the ground.

Then 15 minutes later in OT, the same thing happened and I was just walking 3 steps. I'm sure that fatique had to play a role because my therapy throughout the day had been pretty intense. So now we know...

The falls jolted by body and hurt my back, wrist, hip, knees and it was emotionally hurtful because I didn't know that I was falling and there was nothing I could have done to prevent it. I came back to my room and ordered some hot chocolate and took a nap. :) Thank you God for the small comforting things in life!

Today is evaluation day and I will have an idea of when they will let me go home. I definitely need to work on stepping and on more walking with a cane.

Here is a pic from Father's Day of my 4. Aren't they just so cute??

I will keep you posted on more updates.

Praying for a better day,

Rebecca

Too Pee or Not To Pee

2010-06-21T08:08:00.003-04:00

Where is my Elmo Potty sticker chart? Its been so funny how excited I get when I sit on the potty and actually pee. Who knew? It would have been great to go through this with my 3 year old because we could have had a little competition going. Mommy gets a sticker and an M&M! One thing that I have learned is to be thankful for small things and peeing on command is one of them. Progress!

Thanks to my sister for the great post yesterday. I told her that she needed to post some of our work because I know that's what most of you are here to see. I promise that once I get better we will be posting more and more because I am taking the Flying Lessons class by Kelly Rae Roberts and yes, I am learning to fly creatively so watch out Southwest Airlines--here I come. But in the meantime, feel free to look back on our blog, their are lots of pictures of past work. My sister has lots of tutorials and free svgs also.

But before I fly, first I must walk. :) That is getting better. My mom was my PT yesterday since there is no scheduled PT on Sunday and I walked with the aid of a walker a total of 800 feet--that is almost 3- 100 yard touchdowns. So I'm going to say 2 touchdowns and then another touchdown that included a 35 yard pass. You can tell my hubby is a coach and I have 4 boys.

Pain--well the truth be told, pain sucks! I am thankful for meds. Although I am not on any narcotics, I am on pain meds, muscle relaxers and nerve meds just so things are tolerable. Nights are rough and the nerve pain in the lower half of the legs feels like scraping a bad burn when any sheet touches them. From the knee to the thigh it is crampy crawling aches. Ughh. But last night was better than the night before because we were prepared to take on the pain!!

Father's Day was great because hubby brought up the four boys and along with my mom, we had KFC picnic in the hospital room and then gave hubby cards and a netbook which he so deserved and needed. He was completely surprised and excited. My mom had spent 4 hours setting it up for him the night before with all his favorites--LSUsports.net, etc... And them after they left, mom and I watched Valentines Day--thanks Mandy, we enjoyed that treat!

Today is another day of Boot Camp and I hope to see lots of progress. Maybe I will get a cane. If I leave here with a cane, I want a Diva Cane--lots of rhinestones and colors--that would be fun! And a cane would be great with four boys, I thinking of all the times I need a hook or a stick! Hee Hee!

Thanks for all the encouraging comments!

Okay, since my early morning blog post, I now have a cane. This is not MY cane but the one I am using. You can see my gate belt so stylishly wrapped around my chest. This is a safety device that is used to catch me if I fall. It has to be around my chest because my staples go from my bottom to just below my shoulder blades. My pants are nice and soft with a little lace to add to the style. What you can't see are my bright yellow fall socks that are an XXLarge and I have to roll down to keep them on. Anyway, just thought I share my new cane!

Love you guys,
Rebecca

I am holding down the fort.... I think

2010-06-20T11:45:00.000-04:00

Here is one of the latest custom clipboards I just finished. Isn't it adorable? It's for a birthday present. i think the little girl will love it! While, my sister is recovering I have been taking all the orders and holding down the fort so far.... I think. I have talked to her just about everyday and so far I think she is doing great under the circumstances. I laugh and cry every time I read one of her blog posts and I know I couldn't write and go through the torture she has been through at the same time so kudos to her. Thanks to everyone for your comments and your prayers and Sorry if you were hoping this was an update from her and all you got was me. =)

Kathleen

The Ants Go Marching One By One...This is no Hurrah!

2010-06-19T07:32:00.003-04:00

Day 8 (Friday) I have finally made it through one week and into another and it seems like I have been here a month. Thursday night my mom was here with me--she has not left my side since the surgery and I can't tell you how much of a blessing that has been for both me and my hubby. Thanks mom, you are awesome!

So I am back in bed time for nighty nighty and I have ants crawling on me--yes, ants! Up and down my legs and they hurt! So my mom gets up and comes over to assure me there are no ants, its just the nerves in the legs. So needless to say, it was a rough night of nerve pain and NOTHING, not even the sheets could touch my legs the feel like the are the burning and running with ants.

Another funny thing about my right leg is it migrates and falls off the bed and I am unable to put it back on the bed. So my sweet mom is constantly getting out of bed to put my leg back on the bed. She has decided I should create some pretty ribbons that will tie around my foot and I can pull my leg into the bed.

Friday started with Boot Camp 6 sessions of therapy totalling 3 complete hours. Progress was amazing. I walked with a walker 400 steps, did squats, crossover walks, leg lifts, etc. But the best part was that hubby was there watching and he was MY coach for the day. Now he has been coaching for over 18 years, that is his real job. He also coaches our boys in whatever sport they are in. I have not missed many games and I think that he is a great coach. But he has never been MY coach. Most say that its not a good idea for their spouse to tell them what to do. But this was different--to have him there cheering me on and encouraging me and challenging me was just the best ever! Thanks honey!!

I also got to see my 4 stinking cute boys and have some lunch with them. Boy do I miss them and can't wait to be home for all those hugs and kisses!

After dinner, a dear friend, Kristy showed up with a special request--prunes. :) and her hubby, Chip, arrived a little later and we just had some time to chat without 6 boys running around and it was just that good ole soul nourishing talk that you need sometimes to remind you of how blessed you are. Thanks you guys!

Normally, the rehab patients get a break on Saturday and Sunday, but NO BREAK FOR ME--Yay! I want out of here! So a full day of Boot Camp and hopefully get to see my boys again. My mom kept them last night and got a break from the hospital. You know you are really needing a break when you take on 4 boys!

So for today--I am praying that the nerve pain gets better and my therapy progresses.

"Keep steady my steps according to your promise, and let no iniquity get dominion over me." Psalm 119:133

Blessings to all of you! and Go Frogs (hometown team in College World Series)

Rebecca

No One Ever Said This Was a Hang Nail!

2010-06-18T07:47:00.007-04:00

So going into this whole Straightening Out Surgery, I had many doubts if this was the right thing to do--what if I die, what if it doesn't work, what if my pain is worse. I also had many feelings of this is not fair to my kids, once again another summer that we can't take a vacation and on and on...but my hubby kept saying you have to do this for yourself, your kids and your life---you can't live a life in pain all of the time.

But never once did I imagine that I would awaken from surgery perfectly straight :) but not able to walk. One more time that HE shows me who is in control of my life.

One week before the surgery I was reading one of my favorite blogs, http://www.homegrownhospitality.typepad.com/ and she mentioned an e-course that she was going to start taking that night. Out of curiousity I checked out the course and wanted to take it but also realized that I would be having my Straightening Out surgery during the middle of the class. On a whim, I signed up and oh, what a blessing this class has been.

Ironically, the class is titled Flying Lessons. So not only am I learning to walk, I am also learning to "fly!"

Through this class, I stumbled across this song and wanted to share:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LAFup_5dPaQ

Day 7: Yesterday there were ups and downs. Ups--I walked with the aid of Eva the walker 150 steps. Woo Hoo. I was able to stand from the wheel chair unassisted. Downs--Still can not move my feet from a sitting position. I look at them and tell them to move and the muscle tightens and they just sit there. They don't work, yet. My pain in the legs is much worse--even the blankets and sheets hurt and burn my legs and although I took meds to sleep the pain in the legs was too much. :(

One more amazingly positive thing is I am still STRAIGHT. The Dr this morning said the surgery was NO Hangnail and sometimes this happens but I will be able to walk again and be without leg pain. And I have an amazing support group of family and friends who love and care for my family.

So off to Day 2 of Boot Camp...woo hoo!
Rebecca

Down one Chicken, Down one Wife...

2010-06-17T07:03:00.003-04:00

Day 5 (Wednesday): After my Tearsday, I was ready for a day of rest, recovery and rehab. Within a few hours, they decided to move me to inpatient rehab immediately so they released me from the hospital and wheeled me to the next floor to a suite. In the process they forgot to give me any of my meds that were due :(
My hubby was able to join me (yay) and my mom and it was the first time he was able to see me how the whole "I need to pee process works" Here is the process.
Me: call for help; wait for 15 minutes for someone to come;
Enter 1 large male tech who bear hugs me and stands me up and then waltzes me to the potty next to my bed while my mom is stationed behind ready to pull panties down. Don't you just love moms!! Then he sets me on the potty and leaves.
My hubby: "So this is it? You just pee out in the open with everyone around?"
Me: (thinking nothing of this) "well yea, I can't walk"
After process is complete, I press button to call for help and realize that my mom has stepped out of the room and there is no panty-puller-upper.
So quickly, I tell hubby, "hurry come over here and be ready to pull up my panties because I draw the line somewhere. Only my mom and my hubby are panty puller uppers!"
Hubby: (smile) "I like that line!"

So remember no pain meds before transfer and now they have to readmit me and get all medication in computer and doctors have to assess and I NEEEEEEEDDDDD some medication!!!!! I Hurt! I am burning hot, sweating, 6 hours lapsed before I had my meds and I was not only dealing with pain, I was dealing with stopping meds the wrong way. Ughhh!

Then, my sweet friend Amy S walked in the room with the gift of the year--French Vanilla Coffee Cream! My mom was dancing and I would have been if I could! Thanks Amy--the cream and your visit was just what I needed.

With time we were able to get the pain meds and me settled down because at the height of it all I received a call from my hubby who informed me that we had a dead chicken. Yes, we have chickens. Chickens that my boys have raised from the egg. Poor boys. Hubby sounded a little defeated--down one chicken, down one wife!

So now it was time for me to sleep because the last two nights I had a total of 8 hours of sleep. Not enough when you are 5 days postop from straightening out surgery. And to tell you the truth my mom was tired of hearing me in the night say,
"MOM, what's that noise?"
"What noise"
"The music playing"
"Becca, I don't hear any music."
"Mom, please get up and listen, its playing over and over and over."
"Becca, I don't hear any music"
"Mom, its Air Supply--I'm all out of love, so lost without you..."
"Becca, its in your head. Here's a tissue and a sip of water and go to sleep."
Sigh

So Ambien to the rescue and yes, I had a wonderful night of sleep.
As for today, I have evaluations by the Physical Therapist and Occupational Therapist who will make me a plan to learn to walk and my plan is for them to know they have a week. :)

"The steps of a good man (or woman) are ordered by the Lord." Psalm 37:23

Here's to one step in front of the other...
Becca --the other half of pigtails paper trails ( i miss you sis)

Learning to Walk Again!

2010-06-16T06:23:00.003-04:00

Straightening Out Day (I decided to name my surgery this because it sounds so much better than Spinal Deformity Surgery) came and went and after 10 hours under the knife it was very successful! I am now straighter front to back and side to side and all the bad stuff was taken out! Woo Hoo!

Day 1 was spent in surgery while my incredible mom and super hubby waited for the 6 hour surgery -that turned into a 10 hour surgery- to be over. My dear sweet friend Kristy kept my four boys for several days--thank you friend, you are awesome! And another ever so faithful friend, Rachel, kept everyone up to date with her emails on my progress--she fired my husband from his update job after I became coherent because he did not give much info. :) The surgery lasted longer than expected because the 19 year old hardware had to be cut out piece by piece--uughhh!

Day 2 and 3 (Saturday and Sunday): My pain was managed very well and the nurses in ICU were incredible. I hated to stay in ICU because my mom couldn't be with me at night but she was secretly glad to get some sleep! My boys visited Sunday evening with flowers and handmade cards and I was super glad to see them. My second mom (I hate the word step) and my sister Bethany also popped in with such sweet spirits!

Day 4 (Monday): Finally I am in a regular room and its time to get up and walk. Now, mind you I have multiple screws and rods up the back of my spine and 25 staples holding it all together and a separate incision on the side that is glued shut. I had been telling the nurses and doctors and anyone who would listen that I could NOT feel or MOVE parts of my legs, but they assured me that since my toes wiggled everything would be okay. So with my physical therapist's help, along with my mom, I tried to stand and my legs don't work. They don't work! :( Too much trauma to all the mangled nerves around my spine and connections have to be made and blah, blah, blah...they don't work!

Day 5 (Tuesday or should I say "Tearsday"): The day started with me waking up in pain with the meds being 2 hours late. Then the head nurse who has given herself the title, Queen of Bowels, arrives to tell me that its time for her concoction since I haven't pooped yet. Molasses and sugar. and this is NOT by mouth. Now, I have birthed 4 kids so you would think that this would not be a big deal, but don't kid yourself...;) I will spare you the details but keep in mind that I can't walk and it takes multiple peoples to help make everything happen.

God is so good--he sends me Tonya. Tonya is my patient care tech for the day and I have declared her Patient Care Tech of the Year because she (along with my always loving mom) put me in a bathroom wheel chair and wheeled me to a shower and they gave me my first shower since early Friday morning. And she did it with such a loving spirit and later told me that it blessed her to know that that shower made my day. It makes me wipe away a tear just typing this...remember its was Tearsday.

So I am showered, lotioned, powdered and in my own gown--all tubes removed-- and ready for PT and OT when along comes a lady with a bag of maxipads (yes, that happened,too) and potty wipes and she declares, "a lady dropped this off and I wouldn't let her come see you since she has a child and children are not allowed. She said you would know who this was from." Now, my own 4 boys had been up to visit on Sunday for about 15 minutes and the policy states "No children under 12 allowed unless you get permission" and we had gotten permission. No big deal. So I called my friend and told her not to leave (she was holding back tears--tearsday) and I asked to speak to someone to get permission. In comes Mr. So-n-So and he proceeds to explain the policy as to read that no kids allowed with the exception of grandma dying and I am envisioning my own 4 sweet boys who I so desparately want to see not being able to come and the flood gate opens--Tearsday, yes Tearsday begins...Poor guy, he was just following hospital policy but I thought I was too because no where does it say that grandma has to be dying for you to see your children. Well, and did I mention that I can't walk, I'm seeing double, everything tastes too sweet, I can't walk, I had molasses and sugar, I can't walk, oh yeah, I had spinal deformity correction surgery, and now I can't see my kids!
He did allow my friend and her sweet boy to come up for 5 minutes and then told me I could see my boys in the lobby and they would roll me down in a wheel chair. Policy is policy and I try to be a rule follower...blah, blah, blah...
The rest of the day was visits from PT and OT, my doctor who assures me that I will walk again but it may be 6 weeks or more but MRI shows everything to be great, seeing my hubby and my boys and a visit from a dear friend.

Today (Wednesday): I will be evaluated by the In Patient Rehab Floor and they are saying that I will move from Acute Care to Rehab for 1-2 weeks. My #3 sons birthday is June 26th so I would love to be home for that!

So, off to boot camp I go with my wonder woman bone growth stimulator pack that I have to wear as I learn to walk again. 2 Corinthians 5:7, "For we walk by faith, not by sight." The more steps we take, the more comfortable our walk becomes and the more confident we will become in our journey. So, I am learning to walk again.

Thanks for letting me share,
Rebecca

PS--thanks for the phone calls from family and friends. They really lift my spirits!

Easy Bake Summer Fun!

2010-06-10T12:51:00.000-04:00

It's our first day of Summer here in Florida and while my sister is having her major surgery in Texas tomorrow and in our prayers we are cooking up some summer fun. The kids keep saying they are bored every 15 minutes and we have been swimming, played the wii and now are cooking in the Easy bake oven and it's only noon. AGH!!!! I found this recipe online and thought I would share.....it's a cake mix Easy Bake Oven Recipe and it's so easy and cheap! Two Tablespoons of cake mix and One Tablespoon of water.... mix together put into the easy bake pan and cook for 10 minutes and Voila!

Hope you are enjoying your summer and thanks for keeping my sister in your prayers... I will keep everyone posted on how the surgery goes over the next few days..

Kathleen

A Few Goodies for my Nurses

2010-06-10T12:30:00.001-04:00

So, I couldn't sleep at all last night--woke up at 2:22 am to be exact. There was not much I could do that was on my to do list because it might wake someone up. I figured that creating something would help with my anticipation of the big event. So for my nurses...

I hope they like them.

Blessings,

Rebecca

Straightening Out Day :)

2010-06-09T09:50:00.000-04:00

Hello friends! I normally do not post personal things on the Pigtails Paper Trails blog that my sister and I share, but since I don't have a personal blog then this will have to do.

I wanted to let everyone know that I will be having surgery this Friday, June 11 to correct a rapidly progressing spinal deformity--hence, "Straightening Out Day." Although, I am told that the road to recovery is long, I hope to rebound quickly so I can still create since I know this will help heal me.

Thanks so much in advance for your thoughts and prayers! I will update you on my progress...

Blessings,
Rebecca

Here's to the 2010 Graduates...

2010-06-04T10:12:00.002-04:00

One of my favorite times of the year is Graduation. I remember my own special day years ago and can still feel the hope and promise of that day when I think of it. Its fun every year to be able to participate in that time with my hubby's players and students. I was also blessed to be able to create a few grad gifts.

So here's to the 2010 Graduates...

Anthologies Connection June Kit

2010-06-02T12:45:00.002-04:00

Head on over to www.anthologiesbyme.com to purchase the new June kit, Take Flight.

Anthologies Connection Sneak Peaks for June Kit

2010-05-27T11:39:00.003-04:00

The kit goes on sale June 1st at 12:01 am. Be sure to purchase yours quickly at www.anthologiesbyme.com. You don't want to miss out on this awesome kit!

Free SVG GSD Cutting File Coffee Mug with Heart

2010-05-22T06:28:00.003-04:00

FREE SVG and GSD Cutting File Coffee Mug with Heart!
Download SVG here: COFFEE MUG
Download GSD here: COFFEE MUG
Signup for my Newsletter in the sidebar of this blog to get weekly freebies

BoBunny Card Challenge Winner! Thanks BoBunny!

2010-05-20T06:17:00.000-04:00

Thanks BoBunny for choosing my Card! I was so excited to find out my card won! Go Check out the official BoBunny Blog to see the card challenge for this week! Here was my flower entry..go here to see the card and flower or to find the link on how to make this beautiful lotus flower! Thanks for celebrating my win with me!

A Coach is Honored!

2010-05-17T11:48:00.001-04:00

Whew! I just finished this album for a very special cheerleading coach who dedicated many years to a cheer program. I think my favorite part of the whole book is the back page where I was able to find a large clear envelope that I resized and decorated--in it the girls wrote personal notes to their coach and friend.

Thanks Stacy!

Thanks for looking! ~Pigtails Paper Trails~

Custom Clipboard Orders.... We personalize for free!

2010-05-17T11:40:00.001-04:00

We take custom clipboard orders... you pick the colors and we can do monogram or a name for free! Great teacher gifts or a great gift for a friend! Go here to order one: ETSY SHOP

Teacher Teacher I Declare...

2010-05-04T09:40:00.004-04:00

Thanks for Always Being There!

I think that October Afternoon's Girl Friday paper is about the cutest paper around!

"And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord and great shall be the peace of thy children." Isaiah 54:13

Visit http://www.pigtailspapertrails.etsy.com/ to purchase your special teacher gift!

Thanks for looking,

ETSY SALE Inventory Clearance!!! Clipboards for 10 Bucks!

2010-05-03T13:27:00.002-04:00

We have just moved some items into the clearance section! There are several clipboards marked down to $10!! Check them out! Great gifts for just about every occasion! We will be adding items throughout the week! Link to the Shop PIGTAILS PAPER TRAILS

Ribbon Storage Idea and Tutorial

2010-04-30T09:00:00.004-04:00

The problem is that I have lots of ribbon on spools and not much space in my workroom. I found some extra wood that is pretty thick and heavy (but not too heavy) and spaced my ribbon spools out to see how I wanted them to fit. Then I marked with a sharpie a small dot for my holes. Using the right size drill bit for my dowels, I drilled the holes where the marks are... I didn't space them exactly even, because spools are all different sizes and I wanted to make use of the board space.

Everyone needs a trusty assistant! :)

Next, I put wood glue in each hole (I didn't drill all the way through). I had the dowels cut at the hardware store to 16 inches long each. They are easy to cut, but I knew it would save me time and sanity if someone else did it. Then I lightly tapped each dowel into the hole.

Ta Da!! I LOVE my new ribbon storage. I made three ribbon storage boards: neutrals, reds/pinks/purples, blues/greens. They are not too heavy to move quite easily but are sturdy enough to hold all of the ribbon. I can see at a glance what I have or don't have :). And they don't unroll too easily if I forget to pin them.

My sister had the idea of bagging my loose ribbon in ziplocs and clothespinning them to the dowel.

Thanks for visiting!

Moxie Fab Three Cheers for Chairs Challenge

2010-04-29T14:18:00.001-04:00

The challenge was to use a chair in a card. I chose to cut out a chair and make a little pillow with satin ribbon to sit in the chair. What's a chair without a pillow, right? The sentiment says "You're Chair-ished". Perfect! Thanks for taking a peek.

Lovely Bo Bunny Lotus Paper Flower

2010-04-28T15:08:00.002-04:00

I loved making this flower. It took some time but it was so much fun and it turned out so pretty. I used Bo Bunny Card stock Poppy Dot for the Red and Bazzill for for the Green. Here is a link to the You tube video on how to make these. Lotus Video Post a link if you make one so we can take a look! Thanks for stopping by!

Oh What a Beautiful Flower!

2010-04-27T07:48:00.001-04:00

I saw this blog and had to make her flowers! Go here to learn how to make these wonderful flowers yourself: Beautiful Flowers She gives great step by step instructions on how to make them. They take some time to fold but are well worth it in the end if you love making flowers! Thanks for stopping by today!

Scalloped Layered Dress Card Tutorial! Fun Card!

2010-04-26T09:14:00.001-04:00

This is a fun dress to make and all you really need is a scallop punch. A bone folder helps and some ribbon adds a nice touch! Here it goes!

First you cut out 7 scallop circles out of any cardstock!

Next you will fold them in half!

Then you will fold them inwards from each side.....like the picture!

The top of the dress will face up like below!

The bottom will layer just like in the card and then finished product will look like this:

Super Easy and fun!

Sweet Sunday Sketch Challenge

2010-04-25T09:01:00.002-04:00

I just finished my Sweet Sunday Sketch Challenge! Here is a link to the challenge if you wish to participate! Sketch Challenge! Thanks for taking a peek!

Taylored Expressions Card Sketch Challenge

2010-04-24T07:30:00.000-04:00

That's the Sketch and I chose to make a kite with the card and use the new line on holiday from The Girls Paperie. I love that line of cardstock. Thanks for looking!

Kathleen

Ever Have One Of THOSE Days?

2010-04-22T15:30:00.005-04:00

UGH! Now I must clean...I think I can...I think I can...I think I can...at least I got a few things accomplished besides a big ole mess!!

Core'dinations and Caardvark Challenge! You make my Head Spin!

2010-04-21T15:03:00.005-04:00

Core'dinations and Caardvarks teamed up for a challenge! I love a

challenge and this is my finished product. I used the core'dinations cardstock to make a torn pinwheel. It turned out so cute! I love the edges. I added ribbon to the torn border at the bottom and the title to the double matted heart! Thanks for stopping by and taking a peek!

Pink Paislee Sketch Challenge

2010-04-20T08:54:00.001-04:00

I always can use a challenge to get me motivated and this one was fun! I just love working with Pink Paislee Cardstock. This was an 8.5 x 11 inch challenge but I converted it into a 12 x 12 layout. Thanks for taking a peek!

Here is the link to the Challenge: Pink Paislee Blog!

Petal Card SVG and GSD FREE Cutting FILE for Cricut Silhouette Craft Robo

2010-04-19T17:48:00.000-04:00

I made this petal card cutting file! Love it! Once Cut, You just score the petals and fold towards the center. Decorate the inside and Voila! It's Super Easy! Download them both here: GSD PETAL CARD and SVG PETAL CARD

We Love Our Teachers...Oh Yes We Do!

2010-04-16T09:25:00.007-04:00

We Love Our Teachers...How About YOU? Its that time again to APPRECIATE your favorite teacher. How about a gift set from Pigtails Paper Trails? Here is the most recent for a fav teacher...complete with clipboard, message block, journal with bookmark, post it note holder and paper weight with flower pen.

Moxie Fab Sketch Challenge Hedgehog Card!

2010-04-14T07:45:00.000-04:00

I love challenges and this one looked like a lot of fun so I jumped right in! I made this card with Cosmo Cricket Tossed Salad cardstock and used one of my svg cutting files...the hedgehog -- isn't he cute? Thanks for stopping by and taking a peek at my card! Can't wait to see what everyone else creates! Go here to participate or to browse other cards in the challenge: Moxie Fab

Dimensional Gerber Daisy Fanfold Flower SVG and GSD File Plus a Card

2010-04-13T12:31:00.008-04:00

First Cut out 2 Twelve inch fringe pieces on your cutting mat.

Score and Fold between each of the creases and make a fanfold with each twelve inch piece!

Connect the two pieces and glue together!

Connect them together again forming a circle and stand up with the fringe facing down!

Pinch the sides and pull them towards the center and flatten it to form the flower!

Voila! You have a Gerber Daisy! You can put some glue down under before you do this step so that it is secure!

I made this card to show off this new creation. I made a file that cuts out the parts necessary to make this beautiful Gerber Daisy! You can buy this as a cutting file and then follow my instructions here to make your own Gerber Daisies. Here is the SVG file: Fringe SVG and here is the fringe GSD: fringe GSD

Dress Form Banner and SVG file CREATE!

2010-04-12T08:31:00.003-04:00

I lOVE this SVG file! This is a basic dress form and I made a darling banner with it! I enlarged it in Sure Cuts a lot and cut out 6 of them. Then I added a scalloped circle and the word create to the banner. I also used my martha stewart edge punches and added a decorative bottom to each of the dress forms and a heart! Love this so much! You can get this SVG file for $1.50 here: DRESS FORM SVG ***I will work on getting it in GSD format for the other cutters and post it soon***

Paper Roses Card Beautiful in Black and Cream

2010-04-10T06:00:00.001-04:00

Made this card using My Paper Rose Tutorial found here: Paper Roses! Love the Black and Cream! I am on a paper flower kick and just can't stop making them. They are so much fun and super easy!

Making fanfold Flowers and a Cute Card!

2010-04-09T06:00:00.001-04:00

First you need two 2 inch pieces of cardstock: one six inches in length and one 12 inches in length.

Then take your threading waters Fiskar punch and punch out the edge as shown below!

Now you will score a line between each punch....makes for easier folding!

Fold each of them into a fan-fold design and you are ready to glue them together!

Start by gluing the ends together.... Glue one end and then the next end to form a full circle as shown in the next couple of pictures!

Now you will grab the top of the circle and bring it down into the center to fold it flat...see below!

You can place some adhesive on your paper to do this and then fold it into the adhesive or you can use a topper piece and glue it to hold it into place as shown in the picture below.

These are so much fun to make and look great on layouts and cards! Make several and put them on sticks in a jar for a fun centerpiece idea!

Fabulous Flower Card SVG and GSD Cutting Files Newsletter Signup!

2010-04-08T09:25:00.004-04:00

I made this card using this weeks free SVG and GSD Cutting File! I cut several sizes of the flower and inked and curled the edges. Then, I layered it! I love the look! If you don't get the newsletter for weekly cutting file freebies please signup here:
This weeks freebie file is the flower you see in the card! You can download it here: SVG FLOWER
and GSD FLOWER

French Fry Box and A Cute Teacher Filled Gift! SVG GSD

2010-04-05T12:03:00.004-04:00

This cute French Fry box is decked out and filled with cute Teacher Supplies! What a cute way to give a little surprise to your teacher. The French Fry Box SVG & GSD File is only $1.00 and is available here: SVG and GSD for instant download through Paypal! Have fun decorating and filling it up with your favorite things.... nails supplies, teacher supplies, makeup for teen, or candy! Just some of many great ideas!
For more SVG files check out my website at Pigtails Paper Trails

Great New Paper Flower Tutorial and FREE SVG!

2010-04-03T08:27:00.006-04:00

Get the FREE SVG File for this Layered Flower Here: Paper FLOWER
If you make a project with this flower please link back to this blog so others can get the file and the tutorial! Share! I would also love to see you projects so leave me a comment with your blog link and I will come visit and take a look! If you haven't been to my website check it out here: Pigtails Paper Trails I have lots of Great SVG files available to purchase and at great prices!

Purple and Gold Fleur De Lis and Vintage School Teacher Clipboards

2010-04-03T07:17:00.005-04:00

These make great Teacher Appreciation Gifts--especially with the personalization, fun and fabulous colors and the extra Binder Paper Holder on the back.

Anthologies Connection Inspiration Projects

2010-04-01T00:01:00.004-04:00

After weeks of preparation, anticipation, hard work (and some worry), the day is finally here--the first Anthologies Connection Kit is available for sale--until they are all gone. Once the excitement wore away, then I realized that I had to actually create from within a box. I will have to admit I was quite anxious especially when I found out that I had to create 2 layouts--the last time I made a layout was around 1999--yes you read that right! That was the day when we used the cute scissors and stickers and that was about it.

So here I am, a decade later and I have this amazing paper and embellies and 12 years of digital pics of my four boys and I had to decide where to start. I decided to start with what I know--I love to mix prints and textures. So I cut, inked, stitched and combined patterns, ribbons, fabrics--here is the first layout.
The flowers are such a fun way to create dimension to your projects. Here is a tutorial to show you how to create this great flowers. I used buttons and torn fabric to finish them off.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Prima papers are amazingly gorgeous, but one thing that stumped me was how was I going to use the beautiful papers for my BOYS. Even though they are rough and tumble boys, there are those tender, sweet and precious moments that I tried to capture using this kit. In my second layout, I became a little more adventurous and used the pink for my background of my youngest son enjoying the dandelions in our backyard. The lyrics to a favorite song seemed to sum up my thoughts for this special little guy!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This fabulous kit SCREAMS altered project and this journal really shows off many of the beautiful items. To make this journal, I supplied the journal and the paper clip. Everything else is included in the kit. After tearing and inking the edges, I was able to arrange the papers to show many of the beautiful birds that are in the kit. I embossed the pink dotted paper with a dot pattern. The ribbon is threaded up the side of the journal to use as a bookmark. To punch the holes, I used a ribbon threader punch. The words "believe, hope, create" are stamped along with the birds on the card--this is a Martha Stewart bird stamp. The tag on the top is laminated and then tied to the large paperclip with a pretty pink ribbon. The pearl swirls, buttons and the fabric flowers finish off the book. Here is a view of the back.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My final project for the Design Team (I have more stuff and more plans with the remaining kit goodies) is a Springtime Floral Arrangement. I was so inspired by all the wonderful flowers that I have seen everywhere that I decided to try my hand at a home decor project. My sister posted this great pinwheel tutorial and so I started with two pinwheels--the large one and a smaller one on the jar. I used a pink flower for the center of the large one and a butterfly for the smaller one. Using more of this gorgeous Prima paper, I punched, inked, cut and folded strips of paper in various sizes to make the flowers. I then glued the flowers and pinwheels to small wooden dowels and stuck them into a mason jar that I filled with shredded paper. The dowels, jar and shredded paper I already had on hand. I tied the flowers with the fabric that I tore and frayed a little and voila'--I just love how it turned out!
Closeup of the jar...

Look at all the wonderful embellies included in the kit...

Thanks for looking...now head on over to http://www.anthologiesbyme.com/ and purchase your very own kit. And while you are there, check out the design team and see more inspiration from the Anthologies Connection Design Team.

Scalloped DRESS FREE SVG for SCAL and CRICUT SCAL OFFER 10% OFF Coupon Code

2010-03-31T16:10:00.004-04:00

I have two great offers for you today. First, a 10% off code for Sure Cuts a Lot. A program that will make your Cricut limitless. Here is the code: 8774959. This code will expire on 4/12/2010. Go here to get the program from Craftedge: Pigtails Paper Trails and click on the Sure Cuts a Lot link on the right hand side of the screen. Don't forget to use the code to get 10% off!!

Also, get your free for the Scalloped Dress in the picture above here: FREE SCALLOPED DRESS SVG! FREE SVG and SCAL Coupon CODE!!! Enjoy! We are an affiliate of Sure Cuts a Lot!

Some New Pretties--Crosses and Fleur De Lis

2010-03-31T09:52:00.004-04:00

Come visit us over at www.etsy.com/shop/pigtailspapertrails

Apron Card New Crate Paper Addi Paper Doll Collection and an SVG file!

2010-03-29T18:39:00.004-04:00

I made this beautiful card using my SVG (Cutting file for use with Cricut and Sure Cuts a Lot) Apron CARD file available Here: Pigtails Paper Trails for $1.50. I added some beautiful crepe paper roses and some embellishments. I also used my Martha Stewart punch and added a little dressy scallop to the bottom of the card. This paper is gorgeous and I just loved working with the new Crate Paper line..Addi Paper Doll Collection.

Custom Disney Autograph Albums! So cute!

2010-03-29T10:30:00.003-04:00

I love making them and you will have a keepsake when it is complete! They are adorable! They can be personalized with a name! Just convo us on etsy if you are interested in getting one for you disney vacation!!

Anthologies Connection Kit--so many FABULOUS ways to CREATE...

2010-03-28T13:34:00.003-04:00

Here is one of them... Don't forget the Anthologies Connection Kits go on sale April 1st at 12:01 am. Get yours here, http://www.anthologiesbyme.com/.

Happy Weekend,

Baby Boy Landen Message Block

2010-03-26T14:35:00.003-04:00

I couldn't wait to have a reason to use the new Teresa Collins Baby Boy line. I can always count on my good friend Kim to come through with that urgent--"I need a shower gift-tomorrow!" The clip is under the flower and crown combo and is just waiting for a picture of this precious baby boy!

Another Sneak Peak for Anthologies Connection Kit

2010-03-26T10:49:00.004-04:00

Another sneak peak from the Anthologies Connection Kit which goes on sale April 1, 2010 at 12:01 am. You can purchase your kit at http://www.anthologiesbyme.com/. Here ya go...

Crepe Paper Roses! Love these!

2010-03-25T13:34:00.003-04:00

Start with a strip of Crepe Paper about one inch by 12 inches!
The longer the strip the bigger the rose!

Start by rolling a tight center...roll it a couple of times to form the center of the rose.

Now you will begin twisting the crepe paper as you bring it around the center.

I like to add a dab of glue every so often to hold the flower into place.

Just keep twisting and turning and twisting and turning. It really is that simple!
Voila!

Ice Cream Soda Fountain...Vintage Banner

2010-03-24T08:07:00.006-04:00

This Banner was so much fun to make and has a vintage ice cream chic look! I love the way it turned out! Lots of dimension and even a vintage flower from an antique book add an old timey feel to this banner. Makes you want to order up an ice cream cone and get ready for some warm weather. Check it out in the Etsy Shop!

Layered Paper Flower Tutorial

2010-03-24T06:00:00.001-04:00

Make this beautiful Layered Paper Rose!

Take Four Flowers -they can be any flowers as long as they have petals and they don't have to have a hole in the center.

Take one of the flowers and cut away two of the petals.

Now put glue on one of the petals left on the flower and take the petal left on the other side of it and glue it on top of this petal.

This will give you a three petal flower!

On to the next flower, You will cut away on petal!

Put glue on one of the petals left and glue the other petal next to it on top of this petal!

Just like this! It will give you a Four petal Flower!

For the Next flower, you will cut a slit in the flower and do the same thing. Put glue on the petal next to the slit and glue the petal next to it on top of this petal making it a 5 petal flower!

Voila! Just like This!

Now you will take a paintbrush or pencil to round the edges of all of your flowers!

Round all of the edges on all of the flowers by rolling them around the brush or pencil.

Now take a glue dot and start layering your flowers.

Once you are done...this is what you have a three dimensional Flower- Voila!
Also looks great with a crepe paper rose in the center!

Layered Paper Flowers Tutorial

2010-03-23T05:35:00.007-04:00

Start with several circles or flowers they don't have to be perfectly cut!

Fold them in half and leave the smallest one to the side!

These will all get stapled as seen in the next picture at the crease!

Open them up bending them and making them look a little like a flower opening up!

This is the smallest flower or circle- you will fold it in half twice! Then staple this one
at the crease just like you did the other ones!

Next you will put a glue dot on in the center of each layer and start stacking and playing!

The tiny one goes in the middle to finish off the center and Voila! These are great for scrapbook pages and cards because they lay flat! You could also use a button in the center instead of the center piece. The folding and stapling gives the flower dimension and is such an easy way to give it that extra touch!

Cute Pinwheel Tutorial!

2010-03-22T09:46:00.007-04:00

PinWheel Tutorial

Choose a Sheet of Double-Sided Cardstock

Cut it into a Square- Here I chose a 6 inch square!

Fold it in half both ways leaving a crease mark!

Cut along the crease towards the center leaving 1/4 inch of space not cut at center.

Punch holes on the right side of each of your points as shown in picture!

Use a brad and gather each of these points to form your pinwheel and punch hole in center!

Thread the brad through the center hole!

Voila! You have a pretty Pinwheel! If you would like it to spin then you would use a grommet instead of a brad and tack it to a stick. This way it could spin. For decoration, a brad is fun pinwheels are great for parties and to decorate presents!

Handmade Paper Flowers--My new OBSESSION!

2010-03-19T10:16:00.006-04:00

Okay, so, I know its all the rage right now and I have fully jumped on the bandwagon. I can't seem to get enough of the many ways to make beautiful paper flowers and to incorporate them into my projects.

I finally finished my first Anthologies Connection Design Team project and I will be showing you a little sneak peak in a minute. I was getting very nervous and apprehensive about my "issue" --the feeling of paralysis when I tried to start a project--especially when I discovered that some of the Design Team members had finished ALL of their projects.

After doing some rather intensive soul-searching (eating M&M's) I realized why it took me so long to actually cut into the paper--ITS BEAUTIFUL and FABULOUS and just so PERFECT--the kit has EVERYTHING and MORE! You have to have one because on the flip side, you can make the most awesome projects with it.

So here is my first sneak peak...I wish I could show you more, but you must wait until April 1st at 12:01 AM when they go on sale at http://www.anthologiesbyme.com/ and you can purchase your very own!

Covenant Basketball Senior Scrapbook Album

2010-03-08T06:37:00.010-05:00

This 6" x 12" album was a gift from the Covenant girls basketball team to their one senior player. The only things missing in the pictures are tags that are tucked into various pockets--each teammate wrote a special note. The girls were still working on them :) Thanks for looking!

Anthologies Design Team Announcement

2010-03-06T06:33:00.005-05:00

Its official--the Anthologies Design Team has been chosen and I am so excited to be part of the the Team. A special thanks to my little sis, the other half of pigtailspapertrails, for encouraging me to submit for the team!
For those of you who don't know, Anthologies is a fabulous scrapbook store in the Dallas Fort Worth area where you can "Shop, Crop and Create!" Their online blog is www.anthologiesbyme.blogspot.com

Here are the other design team members and their blogs:

Jennifer Yates http://www.thepinkroom.typepad.com/
Rebecca Turner http://www.pigtailspapertrails.blogspot.com/
Michele Brooks http://michelebrooks.typepad.com/
Sandy Hubbard http://www.asmylittleworldturns.blogspot.com/
Lori Camperlengo http://www.camperlengo.blogspot.com/
Jing-Jing Nickle http://thislittleartofmine.blogspot.com/
April Hummert http://www.scrappingskylar.blogspot.com/
Lisa Houpt http://itsjustlisa.blogspot.com/
Erica Hofstetter http://zunky-chic.blogspot.com/
Anthologies In House and DT Members:
Susan Tidwell http://susan-artfulmusings.blogspot.com/
Tracy Pounds, Creative Director http://www.luv2cre8joy.blogspot.com/
Rhonda Merry
Elaine Howell
Anna Dixon

The first kit rolls out April 1st and they are first come first serve. You can purchase them online at http://www.anthologiesbyme.com/ and I will be posting sneak peaks of whats to come! So check out the other Design Team members blogs and say hello.

Happy Weekend!

Welcome Home Family Album

2010-02-27T19:27:00.004-05:00

Here is the inside of the Welcome Home Family Album...(The cover is pictured on the previous blog entry) Using Teresa Collin's new lines and bits and pieces of other coordinating things that I had in my stash, I created the inside cover and page 1. The inside cover has a place for your family name and address and has the verse from Proverbs 24:3-4, "By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowlege the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches."

Page 1 has a large inked and stitched matte with a beautiful triple layered cross that has been inked and decorated with rhinestones and ribbon.

Page 2 and 3 are both decorated with Teresa Collins paper and are stitched, inked and decorated with flowers, ribbon and a cross charm. The card on page 3 says "For The Record" and has a place to journal a special time.

Page 4 has two inked and stiched mattes that have beautiful coordinating ribbon and 2 pockets with journal cards. The verses that separates the mattes are Psalm 91:1-2, "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High, who abides in the shadow of the Almighty, will say to the Lord, "My refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust."

Page 5 has a quote by Harold B. Lee that states, "The most important work you will ever do will be within the walls of your own home." There is a place to place a photo above the quote.

Page 6 has a wonderful journal card that states "10 moments that matter most" and Page 7 has beautiful mattes that are inked, stitched and adorned with ribbon and a key charm.

Page 8 has a large stitched and inked double layer matte that includes the scripture Deuteronomy 6:6-9, "And these words which I command you this day shall be upon your heart; and you shall teach them diligently to your children and talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. And you shall bind them as a sign upon your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. And you shall write them on your doorposts of your house and on your gates."

Page 9 has two mattes that are stitched, inked and adorned with ribbon and a cross charm.

Page 10 and 11 have lots of room for photos on the inked mattes that are embellished with flower and rhinestones.

Page 12 and 13 are decorated with Teresa Collin's timely key paper and I have attached a journaling card that says, "The Way It Is" for noting that special moment. Psalm 127:1 is included on the 13th page and its says, "Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain."

Page 14 has two stitched and inked double matted circles that are embellished with ribbon and a fleur-de-lis charm. There is also a journaling card that says, "Memories Like This."

Page 15 has 2 journaling cards: "Just a Few Things to Think About" and a double matted circle card that says, "He has made everything beautiful in its time." Ephesians 3:11. There is also lots of room for photos on the inked and stitched double matte.

Page 15 has a stitched pocket that holds a large tag for both journaling and photos. The tag is embellished with a ribbon and a crown charm. Flowers and rhinestones adorn the base of the matte.

Page 16 is a beautiful quote by Thomas Jefferson,"The happiest moments of my life have been the few which I have passed at home in the bosom of my family."

Page 17 sums up the entire album with "There is no place like home." There is a very large double matted oval that is embellished with a flower, ribbon and a family charm.

Thanks so much for looking and have a blessed day!

2010-02-27T10:53:00.004-05:00

Here is the cover of the new album that I finished to be donated to our school's auction. I used lots of Teresa Collins new Welcome Home Collection. I will post more pics of the inside pages in the next few days--so you will have to check back to see them. Sorry about the tease--but my computer is down and I am learning how to post using my netbook.

So sad I have to give it away--Oh, but I want to keep it! :) A little bit about the album: I used the covers from Teresa Collins and them cut chipboard 6"x 12" for all the inserts. I then covered, sanded and inked them. The mattes are inked and stitched with lots of ribbon, fibers, charms, rhinestones and flowers. Can't wait to show you the rest!

From Sweetheart to Sweet Friend--Something for Everyone!

2010-02-02T15:30:00.002-05:00

The French Quarter Fleur De lis Etsy Treasury!

2010-02-01T15:47:00.003-05:00

I heart treasuries! this time I was able to snag a treasury and we featured the fleur de lis! Go check it out! There are some beautiful items!
The French Quarter Treasury

Sweet Baby Emma Grace

2010-01-31T11:47:00.004-05:00

My oldest son's teacher is expecting her first child--a baby girl that they plan on naming Emma Grace. Here are some sneak peaks of the baby album that my son requested that I make her for the class shower.

Bouquet of Handmade Roses FREE SVG for CRICUT and SCAL

2010-01-28T06:25:00.004-05:00

I made this beautiful Bouquet of Roses using my Rose Tutorial you can find in Here: rose tutorial . This time I used scalloped scissors to give them a curvy edge look. I then used my cricut and cone SVG to cut out the template for the cone. You can get the cone template here: FREE SVG CONE TEMPLATE

Handmade Paper Rose Post it Note Holder

2010-01-27T08:45:00.003-05:00

Just listed this beautiful post it note holder on Etsy! I am so in love with making handmade flowers and hope that you have checked out my tutorial and tried them. They are so much fun. For these I use scalloped scissors and sprayed them with glimmer mist . Love them!

Making Paper Cardstock Roses for Scrapbooking Cardmaking

2010-01-19T15:20:00.010-05:00

Let's Learn How to Make Beautiful Paper Roses

Start with a circle any size and it doesn't have to be perfect!

Cut a slit and start cutting it into a spiral shape!

Cut it all the way until you get to the middle circle.

Trim the little excess piece at the top you see to make it nice and even!

Start rolling the paper into a nice tight roll!

Keep rolling!

and rolling!

When you get to the center put a nice big glue dot on the flat piece in the middle and stick down your rolled rose onto the flat piece! VOILA!

I love the paper roses I am seeing in all the new scrapbook pages and cards and I thought that you might want to learn how to make one! They are so easy to make and look really pretty even as a decoration.

New Year, New Things...

2010-01-12T16:21:00.003-05:00

Teacher Christmas Gifts! Altered Decoupaged Coaster Sets

2009-12-13T19:23:00.004-05:00

This year I get to buy gifts for 9 teachers. My kids all have co teaching classes and it is overwhelming. I chose to make something. I came across these beautiful napkins in a boutique and decided to make coasters with them.

My supplies were:

a box of tiles (48 cream tiles for less than 12 bucks) at Home Depot
A package of napkins
decoupage (Mod Podge) and foam brush
polyurethane sealer
cork on a roll with adhesive back at Michaels (used a coupon)

I took the napkins and cut them into 4 squares. Each napkin will make 4 tiles. I then decoupaged the napkin to the top of the tile and coated the top. After it dries completely I give it a coat of polyurethane and let it dry. I then cut my cork into squares and stuck it to the back of the tile. This is so the tile won't scratch furniture. You could use felt squares, too.
I think they turned out great and I was able to make 9 sets and for a great price.

On the twelfth day of Christmas my true love gave to me... FREE SVG for SCAL and Cricut

2009-12-12T06:01:00.001-05:00

Twelve Drummers Drumming

Download here: Twelve Drummers Drumming
FREE SVG for Scal and Cricut