Scattering Joy

A little stampin' time...

2012-02-02T20:14:00.000-07:00

I'd rather not need sympathy cards

but when I do, I make them with love for

the recipients.

"Thoughts and Prayers"

pg 160 in the current STAMPIN' UP! Idea Book & Catalog.

This tree is so pretty in its simplicity

& can be used for any occasion.

* * *

This set is one of my new favorites!

I love the flowers.

"Field Flowers" pg. 120

For both cards I used Big Shot embossing templates

& decorative paper punches.

Read about our little cover girl...

2012-01-20T21:44:00.002-07:00

Click on the "Emaline's Update" tab!

...then click on the Emaline Headband tab to see more headbands!

Babycakes...

2012-01-05T16:33:00.001-07:00

This is my newest "tool" or "accessory" for the kitchen.

Shortly after I started my job, I decided it would be nice to make birthday treats for those in the office.

...13 years later....

I'm still making treats for twice (at least)

the amount of office people.

I thought this babycake maker would add fun & a nice variety.

The night before I needed treats, I thought it would be a good idea to try it out first so I made these using a regular cornbread recipe. They turned out great...in just 4 minutes!

====***====***====

These are the babycakes I made for Ed's birthday

using the chocolate cake recipe

that came with the babycake maker.

I need more practice on getting the frosting the right consistency

but they turned out good anyway.

Here's a close up showing how I used

using coffee beans & glass marbles

as an anchor.

I love instrumental music...

2012-01-02T19:33:00.000-07:00

We purchased Greg Howlett's CD "Seasonal Spice" for ourselves & for a gift!

Beautiful instrumental piano...with a little sax, cello & violin.

I'm sure I can listen to this CD long after the "Christmas season" is over.

You can check out his website here:

www.greghowlett.com

Craig's update December 2011...

2011-12-06T16:20:00.000-07:00

My nephew Craig had to miss a few treatments because of the counts but he is looking good & strong & has been attending college this semester!

Here's an update...

From the Canape family...

"Hello Everyone! Craig has his last scheduled treatment today. (December 5th) His counts were awesome and they proceeded with the chemo. He has a scan scheduled for December 19th. We are expecting amazing results. He will have the port removed shortly after that as it will no longer be needed. Thank you for all your continuing support! "

Thank you to all who have been praying for Craig and the family!! <3

for my friend...

2011-12-02T16:30:00.000-07:00

In the middle of my piles of headband makin' goodies,

I managed to make this card for my good friend!

It always feels so good to stamp...especially for a friend!

Montana Leis...

2011-11-11T22:19:00.001-07:00

...if you can't wear a Hawaiian Lei...wear a Montana Lei!

I was asked to sell my scarves at Jen's Gallery again this year!

The opening for the winter show was tonight...one scarf sold and another one ordered in a preferred color! Good start & I sure hope it continues!

I like the title she gave me..."Textile Artist"...

Here I thought I was just a knitter. Ü

It does have more class than "Knitter" & better fitting for a gallery.

* * *

This is one of her window displays near her gallery.

Each one is tied with a ribbon, tagged with my logo

& a "to/from" card ready for gift giving.

Christmas card swap...

2011-10-28T20:28:00.000-06:00

I couldn't believe it this week.
Our mall has the Christmas garland up! I think this is the earliest yet.

Too early...

...unless we have things to make for Christmas,
then now is a good time to start.

Here's what I made for a Christmas card swap. I like the color combination...different from the usual red & green. With knitting, other card making & making headbands every spare moment, I needed a rather quick card.

After thinking all day about different layouts,

this is what I made...even though it wasn't in my thoughts during the day.

A variation on step card

2011-10-26T15:54:00.000-06:00

I love the dimension of step cards...fun to make!

Getting ready for a "Gathering"...

2011-10-22T09:44:00.000-06:00

A friend of ours has been wanting to have a "Gathering" in her home to show & sell my "Ema*Line" headbands. I'm almost ready! Since keeping one blog current requires so much time & rather than starting a new blog or site for the headbands, I learned..by lots of trial & error, how to make pages at the top of the blog to see just the headbands. (Although I do love when you take a look at all my posts!) So, hopefully, when you click on 'the Ema*Line tab', you'll be able to see what I have there.

The proceeds from selling the headbands will help pay for Ema's therapy & other medical expenses....I have really big dreams here! : )

I'm almost finished with my brochure for them, too....again, lots of trial & errors but I'm so excited about it.

*** *** ***

This is the headband my friend ordered from me...

Now....no more computer time!

Time to make headbands!!!

Stair step cards...

2011-10-18T09:28:00.001-06:00

These cards take me quite a bit longer to make...mostly in deciding the combination of stamps I want to use. I think the time is well spent!

Made for our (coffee lovin') daughter....

This beautiful paper (Stampin' Up!) is called MOCHA MORNING SPECIALTY...

with flocking on the black part of the design.

I added wire for the 'steam', pearls, and metal heart beads.

...thanks a latte!

I've been wanting to send several thank you cards to people

who have been extra thoughtful.

This is a card I gave to one person...who said she felt like she should send me a thank you card for the thank you card.

She also said the card was a gift.

When they are that touched & happy...so am I!

That's the reason I love spending the time

to specially design my cards.

The flowers were stamped separately, cut out and attached with Stampin' Dimensionals.

~ ~ ~ * ~ ~ ~

We have a generous family at church who shares the bounty from their garden.

This is for them...

The pumpkin is made from the small oval punch & the leaves

from the Bird Builder punch.

Lovin' the Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border punch!

I still have another person to make a thank you card for.

stay tuned...

I love card orders....

2011-09-27T08:31:00.001-06:00

I have a friend that orders cards from me every now & then.

She requested 4 sets of five cards.

Besides using cards I had on hand,

I made new cards specifically for her.

These are the new cards I made...

~~~ ~~~ ~~~

Her only specific request was to make one set of cards with bees...

I didn't want to just give my friend four stacks of five cards

so I made little

gift bags for each set along with a gift tag,

ready for her to give away as gifts.

She was as thrilled with them as I'd hoped!!!

S'more please!

2011-07-23T10:59:00.001-06:00

I was gathering items to take camping...
thinking of roasting marshmallows
and came up with this term...

S'MORE-GASBORD

Too hot to stand over a fire or no fire available for s'mores?

Make a S'moregasbord using Marshmallow Fluff
(Cost Plus World Market),

or marshmallow cream on Graham crackers.

Add a 'buffet' of toppings! Toffee bits, caramel bits,

chocolate, butterscotch, peanut butter chips, etc.,
shredded coconut, nuts....

I made one last time we went camping
(using real roasted marshmallows)
and the Fluff for our family gathering on the 4th.

My favorite...
Fluff, Coconut & dark chocolate chips!

Craig's update

2011-07-20T09:10:00.001-06:00

Craig has had his 3rd treatment

& has been feeling pretty good!!!

Pitt's Pizza in Laurel sponsored a team for Craig in the Relay for Life.

I'm not even sure how many were on the team

but there were many.

This was our first experience with Relay for Life &

it was very encouraging to see how many people participate.

Last year, Billings had the 9th largest event world wide!

Here's the front & back of our shirts...

Luminarias could be purchased to honor or in memory of a loved one or friend.

Both sides of the track were lined with them.

On the bleachers, they used luminarias to first spell out
HOPE then CURE.

It was even more special to walk in the dark with the

luminarias lighting the track.

Amy, Jenny & I walked for 8 hours...mostly non stop!

The time went by quickly so it didn't seem that long at all.

If we would have been more familiar with the event,

we would have planned to stay all night & watch the sun rise!

There were special features they do throughout

the night to help pass the time.

"Up" was shown on a big screen.

Next time!

We were able to honor Rick's Mom who passed away from cancer.

~~~~~ ~~~~~ ~~~~~

This is the first lap...the Survivor lap!
Craig is the tall one in the black hat &
beside him in the red hat is his
Grandpa Canape...a cancer survivor!

~~~~~ ~~~~~ ~~~~~

Craig really wanted to see his cousin, Amy!

She flew in on the 4th of July & surprised Craig
& the rest of the family!
Amy knew that Craig had been craving root beer since his surgery.
She walked in carrying some & went to Craig...
"Hear you've been wanting root beer!"

It was very, very good for all of us to have her home for a week.

Craig really doesn't care much for having his picture taken,

(I don't know why...as good looking as he is!)

but agreed to this & what a great picture it is!

So thankful he was feeling good!

*** *** ***

Laurel celebrates the 4th of July in style!

Approximately thirty thousand people come

to our town to watch our fireworks
presented by the Laurel Volunteer Firemen.

They do a superior job!

Dynamic Design, a store in Laurel,
decided to sell 1,000 helium balloons

that would be released at the park before the fireworks.

These balloons were in honor of & to benefit Craig.

All the balloons were sold...many people

gave much more than the $1.00 they were selling for.

One man from out of town,

went to the booth saying his name was Craig, too,

& wondered what was going on.

He also has had cancer & was glad to donate.

Seeing the balloons being released all at the same time
was SO emotional!!

...I can hardly write about it!

It just sinks in again that it is real.

The Canape family is so blessed with many

friends & a town that has really shown support!

We're so blessed to see God provide for them in many ways.

Thank you for keeping Craig in your prayers!

Success Story...Emaline Musson...

2011-07-17T21:30:00.002-06:00

Our precious granddaughter was featured in the booklet printed for a Gala Benefit for the Good Shepherd Hospital in PA. where Emaline

spent two months.

The hospital wants to do a follow up story on her, too!

Since leaving the hospital, Ema continues weekly therapy.

While Emaline's Daddy is at work, her Mommy spends a huge amount of time doing therapy at home.

There are different things she does to stimulate

the muscles in Ema's right arm & exercises to

encourage her to use her right hand.

Her right hand is mostly in a tight little fist

especially when she is concentrating on

holding onto objects with her left hand.

A cast (beautifully decorated by her Mommy)

was put on her strong (left) arm to

encourage Ema to use her right arm.

From under the cast,

she was able to sneak movement with

her little fingers so next time, the cast will go further on her hand.

The plan is to have a cast on three more times this year.

Emaline is a very happy baby now that the spasms have remained under control.

She readily smiles all the time...until she is tired...then she wants to be done with everything, get comfy & sleep!

(Hmmm...sounds like some other people I know!)

We just cannot get enough of seeing her smiles &

hearing any little sounds she makes.

It is such a JOY to see her Mommy (our daughter-in-love) & Daddy (our son) so very lovingly, gently & continually taking care of this precious little one!

Ema went to Castle Rock Baptist Camp this past week.

She loved being around all the campers who mutually loved her!

Her first little tooth peeked through at camp!

The following are a few pictures I adore!

See the change in our little Bundle of JOY!?!

~~~ ~~~ ~~~

This little poochy lip picture was taken at her

Aunt Maria's wedding in April.

I imagine she was getting pretty tired by the time this was taken.

I love it!

~~~ ~~~ ~~~

Ema in her tutu.

I always notice her right hand.

She is grabbing her left hand as if posing in her tutu!

Any time her right hand does that, it is exciting!

happy, happy, happy...

The latest in sunglasses!!

Daddy told Emaline to give Gramma kisses...

Such a sweetheart!

Recently before falling asleep, I saw Ema holding a little, soft stuffed frog.

She would look at it in the eyes, speak softly to it & put the face to her mouth.

I KNOW she was saying, "I love you! You're so pretty."

& was giving it kisses

since that's what she hears all the time!

All of a sudden, she's losing her "baby" look!

Just a couple more weeks and she'll be 1 year!!

It is very hard narrowing down the pictures to post.

They are all absolutely lovable & everyone melts my heart again & again!

Look at previous posts to see how much Emaline has changed.

(Especially from those taken in January!)

Thank you for continued prayers!!

Praise God for so many answered prayers already!

Coconut Muffins

2011-07-07T09:22:00.000-06:00

Coconut Muffins

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup sugar

3 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 egg
2/3 cup milk
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
1/4 cup flaked coconut

TOPPING: 1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup flaked coconut
1 tablespoon butter or margarine, softened
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.

In another bowl, combine the egg, milk, oil and extract; mix well.

Stir into dry ingredients just until combined.

Stir in coconut.
Combine the topping ingredients;

sprinkle over batter.

Bake at 400* for 18-20 minutes.

enJOY!

I have many muffin pans in all sizes & shapes

& decided I needed this muffin/cupcake baker!

It takes about 10 minutes to bake the muffins & doesn't heat up the kitchen!

I found that if I bake them a little longer than 10 min.

& fill them fuller than the directions say, they brown a little more.

(They do not brown like being baked in the oven.)

Feathered cards...

2011-06-22T13:08:00.001-06:00

The feathers from Rick's pheasant are not only perfect for Emaline's headbands....

...but for cards, too.

This is a graduation card I made

using Stampin' Up! decorator paper, stamps & punches.

A little gold cord & beads added...

To distress the cardstock,

I just ran my fingernail along the edges.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Pheasant feathers really are beautiful!

They have such a variety of color.

The feathers I used on this card have

"Bashful Blue" (SU! color)tips.

Also used is the Stampin' Up!

Framed Tulips Textured Impressions Embossing folder.

Thank you cards for my sister...

2011-06-20T10:05:00.000-06:00

So many friends took food to my sister's family

while Craig was in the hospital & after they came home.

Their caring & thoughtfulness was so appreciated.

I knew Susan was keeping track of everything so she could

send thank you notes.

These are cards I made for her to use.

Susan loves her coffee! : )

The hearts & flowers pictured above are the stamps.

Did you know you can actually shop at the post office?

There are so many more designs than just the flag stamp.

I'm patriotic & love our flag but I sure like the variety of stamps available!

These were cheery!

Being from Laurel, most of the friends are Laurel Locomotive fans!

(This was actually made on gold card stock, too.)

The EMA*LINE headband

2011-06-16T09:21:00.004-06:00

Here are a few pictures of more of the "Emaline Headbands"

Emaline is known for her headbands!

She has received headbands from friends...even from very thoughtful, caring people they haven't even had the opportunity to meet yet.

Previously, I've shown a few of the headbands I've made for her & for Melanie to give away as a way of "scattering joy"

to someone needing encouragment.

The tag for the headband reads:

the EMA*LINE headband.

...made to Scatter Joy

Beautiful*Bowdacious*Blingy

(Emaline's middle name is Joy)

The day after Emaline got out of Good Shepherd Hospital,

her Aunt Maria got married.

Part of Maria's floral arrangements were made

with peacock feathers,

so Emaline needed a peacock feather headband!

This is the one I made for the wedding.

The first picture shows the back side where

I put big flowers to make it pretty, too,

in case it was also visible.

The very thin feathers at the bottom

are also peacock feathers.

Their feathers are so unique and beautiful!

I think peacocks have the right to strut "Proud as a Peacock"!

Since I make the headbands without having

a model to try them on,

I'm never sure how they'll fit.

Melanie put the headband on "upside down"

from what I was thinking

and it turned out PERFECT!

Is this a gorgeous little family, or what!?!

I was glad I put the flowers on the back side because they do show!

Ema's peacock headband worked for Easter, too!

I love her little crossed ankles!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

This cheerful teal and green headband is one I made for Melanie to give away.

The UPS man got to the hospital just as the Mommy was at the door to leave.

I'm so glad Melanie was able to give it to her in time!

Rick & Melanie wanted a thank you card to give to the staff at

Good Sheherd Hospital.

I was thrilled that they asked me to make the card.

Close up of the card...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

I took this picture as a little teaser of what Melanie

could look for in her UPS pkg.

It is a closeup of the headbands and card with some photo effects.

I love background papers and thought this will make a great one!

What a year...and it isn't even half over...

2011-06-15T00:01:00.001-06:00

Here's a happy picture to start this post...
This baby just wants to keep smiling!

This has been the hardest year for our family since 1996 when I spent most of the year on the couch with Crohn's Disease, feeling like I'd never get up again. This year started with finding out our precious granddaughter had a stroke before she was born which led to some major health concerns. (You can find out details in older posts on my blog.)

Since then, we've had many, many blessing seeing the improvement in baby Emaline & God providing for Rick & Melanie just when they needed it! These blessings had trials tossed in now & then for the rest of our family such as a second surgery on Rick's foot and his Dad being hospitalized 3 times. (once for surgery - a week after Rick's surgery).

I would trade this year for '96 & back on the couch especially after this present trial for my family...

After being sick for several weeks, my nephew Craig had surgery on May 9th. A very rare and aggressive cancer was found in his colon. Yesterday, June 13th, Craig had his first of 24 chemo treatments which he'll have over the next six months.

Craig is only 20 yrs. old (young) The doctors were so shocked that this cancer was found in one so young.

It's good that Craig had been in good health and an athlete prior to his surgery.

Our community has been so amazing in their outpouring of love, concerns and actions! Food was taken in to Craig's family, their lawn was taken care of, fund raiser/benefits have been planned. The first was a car wash and ice cream sale held on Sunday. There were so many people out to help, offer support verbally and monetarily. We appreciate each one so very much. Although still weak from the surgery, Craig was able to sit and visit with those stopping by...oh...and to inspect how the car washing was going! (wink, wink)

These pictures were taken shortly after Craig got home from the hospital.

He knows my favorite thing to do is wrap my arms around his waist for a hug. Even though he wasn't feeling very strong, I got my hug. He is so tall, I just put my arms straight out and I can wrap right around his waist.

As with Emaline, I show these pictures so we can journal the positive as Craig heals. No doubt as with chemo, he'll become more tired and experience other side effects, so these pictures are also a reminder to please keep him in prayer!!

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/craigcanape/journal

Ema is home!!!

2011-04-28T09:52:00.000-06:00

We finally got to see the "new" baby!

We were greeted at the door with smiles
& a sparkle in her eyes!!!

Such a blessing!

These are a few pictures from their last week in Philadelphia.

Her smiles seem to be never ending...and we love that!!!

Can you believe the flowers already blooming in Philly?!?

I love this family so much!

Easter morning back at home!

Ema is wearing the beautiful dress she wore to her

Aunt Maria's wedding before leaving Philadelphia.

Notice the "Ema*line" headband!

Ema has improved immensely which is so encouraging!!
She will continue therapy with her parents & with a therapist.
Even though there is such a visible improvement,
her parents still want/need continued prayer for her.

...more to follow as time allows!

Happy birthday....

2011-04-04T08:56:00.002-06:00

My 15th birthday with
STAMPIN' UP!
...and I have the stamps to prove it! ; )

I started out on a little table in the family room...
moved to one of the spare bedrooms...
then to the bigger of our spare rooms
(made 'spare' after our kids left home).
I've been working on organizing my room
when I have a few moments here & there,
to get it the way I'd really like it.
I've also added a "beading corner",
& at the moment, my desk is full of "the EMA*LINE"
headband making items!
I'm so thankful I have a separate room for all of it!

My room became quite full again
when we moved things out of the other room
to make a bedroom for my father-in-law.

S L O W L Y but surely, I'll get it done! :)

* * *
EMA'S UPDATE!

Happy 8 months today,
little sweet bundle of J O Y !

This will be Ema's last week at Good Shepherd Rehab Hospital.

It seems like a very long time since we've seen her & her Mommy.

(We we're thankful to have a day with her Daddy a few weeks ago.)

Ema will have another EEG at the CHOP before they come home.

She is a new little baby compared to the last time we saw her.

We can hardly wait to see her big smile, shining eyes
& hear her little giggles & sounds in person!

I want to feel her little arms around my neck

and smother her with kisses!

From this...

The first week in January when the spasms were just beginning...

(Although we didn't know for sure at that time that it was spasms)

To this...

A happier healthier baby!

A sweet little girl that Melanie & Ema got to know.

She was able to go home from the hospital last week!

Ema & Aunt Maria have their Phillies shirts on!!

Grandpa Musson want equal Cubs time! : )

I want to hold her now!

our little model...so beautiful!

2011-03-29T23:49:00.001-06:00

Lovely in Lilac!!!

The Camo ~ Pheasant headband.

The first in the Ema*line!

What a little dolly!

Ema had a better day in therapy even though
fussy from the prednislone.
She is using both arms better,
sitting up very well, and has smiles!!!

the EMA*LINE headband

2011-03-28T09:26:00.001-06:00

There's the Baby Gap, Old Navy, Oshkosh lines of clothing for babies.

Here's the Ema*line. ; )

Beautiful*Bow-dacious*Blingy!

made to scatter JOY

and my first attempt at baby headbands.

(I didn't have anyone to try them on

so I'm hoping the size is good.)

I made this one to go with Ema's camouflage outfit.

The feathers are from the pheasant her

Grandpa Musson got last Fall.

I had to add a couple beads & a crystal, too!

I sent the teal one for Ema to share if she wants to.

There are a lot of babies at the Good Shepherd Hospital and

maybe one baby & Mommy need cheering up.

Don't you love the muffin (otherwise known as cupcake)

ribbon and charm!?

My Stampin' Up! Big shot and dies were perfect for making the

camouflage, pink & white glittered felt flowers.

Finally...some quality / quantity time to do some stampin'...

2011-03-25T09:08:00.001-06:00

This is the most stamping I've had a chance to do since last year.

That's just not right!

Especially since even seven days without stamping

makes one week...or may I say weak!!

These are the cards I made for Melanie & Ema.

From the day Ema was born, I've whipsered in her ear

"Gramma luuuuvs you!"

I sent the "FORGET-ME-NOT" seeds & a reminder:

"Don't FORGET, Gramma loves you!"

Melanie is very talented with her flower garden

& usually would have seeds planted by now.

I made the little flower pot card especially for her.

~ ~ ~

Using several SU punches & the Square Lattice embossing folder,

I made this cheery thank you card.

I love texturing my card stock with the embossing folders.

It always adds an extra nice touch!

Colored with Poppin' Pastel ~ a favorite technique of mine.

~ ~ ~

I loved the colors of this card but just was not happy with it

until I put the wide pink strip of card stock on the left side.

Layers are good!!

The yellow circle is textured with the Square Lattice folder.

~ ~ ~

What a nice color combination:

Not Quite Navy, Elegant Eggplant & Perfect Plum

Each flower is stamped and cut out with a

few applied with Stampin' Dimensionals.

~ ~ ~

Lovely as a Tree is a classic set.

So perfect for almost any occasion.

It took a little while to get going on these cards

since it had been so long but in the end,

it sure felt good to spend time being creative!

Now I have a few cards ready to add JOY to someone's day!

...and Ema is sitting all by herself!

2011-03-22T10:40:00.001-06:00

Remember the picture showing Ema sitting with the little drum

to help hold her?

Look! She can sit all by herself now!

Our future little musician!

She loves looking at herself in the mirror.

I'm sure she is checking out her

beautiful bows!

(Do babies know they are looking at themselves

or do they like looking at a baby in the mirror?

Hmmmm....)

Look at the love Ema has for her Uncle James!

So precious!

~ ~ ~

Such sweet girls! Ema & her Aunt Maria are reunited!!

They haven't been together since the week Ema was born

& both look very happy to be together again!

~ ~ ~

Smiles....

smiles....

& more smiles...

There have been so many smiles finally able to come out!

Melanie's family & long time friends have been able to visit Melanie & meet Ema for the first time...

but someone is missing in this picture!

....Ema's Daddy.

Rick is back home
missing his family...

...and they are definitely missing him.

In a few years, this will just seem like a passing moment

but right now it feels major to be apart & not at home together.

Even though we see tremendous improvements,

Ema still has a way to go.

She has had to take so many drugs,.

and is going off two so a new one can be started.

Her days consist of a lot of therapy.

So many adjustments for this family & it will be worth it all!

Even though this is true,

days can be long

and the desire for "back-to-normal" can be strong.

Ema has been doing so well, but

this week has been a hard week.

She looks so fabulous in her pictures

but still needs a lot of prayer:

*to keep going

*for the right meds to be prescribed

*for her physical therapy

*for the spasms to remain under control

*& especially her brain activity

to stay normal in order for her to progress.

We can't thank you enough for your continuing prayers!

~ ~ ~

"Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed;

for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea,

I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." Isaiah 41:10

...the BEST news yet!

2011-03-10T10:27:00.000-07:00

Ema's hypsarrhythmias

(Infantile Spasms electrical activity on the EEG)

are GONE!!!

Her EEG showed a lot of normal activity and a tendency for seizures.

She will continue taking medicine for seizures but

will begin weaning off steroids on Monday, March 14th.

There is a 60% chance that the spasms will NOT return!

This picture was taken shortly after her EEG.

She slept in her Mommy's arms for the test

& must have had quite a refreshing nap!

Since she feels better, she can’t quit smiling!

Rick & Melanie say she is really interacting with others.

She likes to catch her Mommy's eyes then turn away with huge smiles!

A new little baby was in the therapy room with Ema.

She kept smiling at the baby trying to catch the baby's eyes!

She is making new discoveries every day!

Doesn't she look like she has lots to tell us?!

We are so blessed to see more answers to prayers!

Rick is home & back to work.

Dear friends of Melanie have been filling in the gap with visits.

Thank you to them! What a blessing & JOY for all of us to know so many care.

What a difference a week makes...

2011-03-08T22:51:00.002-07:00

Melanie is so happy to hold Ema un-swaddled!

It's so much easier to snuggle without the blankets.

Ema is able to go longer without her pacifier, too.

She's becoming the happy little baby that has been locked up inside.

Look! Her little right hand in open!

She was able to stay up on her arms while

holding her head up for quite awhile.

She is getting stronger!

Ema is able to sit up using a drum to lean on.

She is looking at herself in the mirror...having a great time!

* * *

This exercise strenthens both sides.

She leans on her weaker side (right side) & reaches with her left hand.

In one of the first therapy sessions Ema had in Bozeman, Rick & Melanie were told that black & white toys were the best to use.

They had this police car which winds & lights up.

One of Ema's favorite toys. Perfect!

She loves watching it drive back & forth.

Aunt Amy was able to go over for the weekend for a little more snuggle time!

A splint was made for Ema to keep her teeny little hand open & train the muscles to go in the right direction.

The smiles just keep coming!

We thank & praise the Lord for all He is doing

& already letting us see answers to prayer.

We're thankful that so far, Ema's prednisolone does not

have to be increased.

Another EEG is scheduled for March 9th.

Happy, happy little girl!

Emaline Joy Musson

Ema's update...Good Shepherd Hospital

2011-03-04T08:54:00.001-07:00

Emaline got to meet many relatives and friends for the first time the weekend before going to Good Shepherd.

Great Aunts, uncles, cousins...lots of friends!
Lots of lovin'!

Melanie & James - celebrating his birthday.

Rick & Amy. So glad they could be together!

Ahhhhhhh! Must be sweet dreams!!

The Good Shepherd part of their journey started out a little rough.

First of all, Rick & Melanie were surprised to find out they were sent to the wrong hospital. It was the one for older people not babies. Leaving Allentown, PA, they headed for Bethlehem to the Good Shepherd Pediatric Hospital.

     The first day was more for checking in, orientation and "getting settled".
     The next shock was being told their insurance was only going to cover 70%...after being told it would completely cover. With more digging, Good Shepherd found they are completely covered.
     Next, after being told Melanie could stay in the room with Ema, they discovered Ema had a 2 yr. old roommate & no place for Melanie to stay. Also, they weren't allowed to carry Ema down the hall but could only use a stroller to take her to the lounge...the only place the three of them could be together. They weren't allowed to take their baby into the guest room where they were sleeping.

     The first night, they spent part of the night in the lounge so they could be with Ema.

     The second night, a nurse and a security guard told them that they had to send Emaline back to her room then leave the lounge because it needed to be locked for security reasons & would be best for their baby. Having a security guard tell them what was best for their baby didn't go over well at all. This happened while we were on Skype & Rick told them he needed to finish with his parents then they'd leave.  The nurse called the head nurse at her home & they were finally told that they could stay in there that night.    Soon, we got a call from Rick. The nurse wanted him to call us back to let us know they could use the lounge. I don't think she wanted to be thought of as the "bad guy".

     The third night, they finally got a private room for the three of them.

     Now, we aren't against rules but none of this went along with what the kids were first told it would be like.

Just one more test for them.

On the HAPPY side of things, Ema has been smiling like NEVER BEFORE! It was great to see her on Skype. It was like she could not quit smiling. She found she could do fun things with her tongue and was so happy!!

The next day, she lifted her head to follow her Daddy walking across the room and gave him a huge smile! This is such an improvement. It was never easy for her to lift & move her head like that!

She is undergoing several types of therapy and doing great. One therapist was supposed to have her for 1/2 hr. but was having such a good time with her that she kept her for an hour! The steroid has started to work. Ema has still had a few small spasms so the Dr. wants to increase the dose. It's working but oh, those side effects!!

Here's a couple of pictures from the first few days....

A sleepy quiet baby...

~ ~ ~

...turned into a wide awake, alert smiling baby!

The FIRST smile in a week!!

I wasn't sure it was our Ema!

No headband!

Here she is!

Her Daddy says it is like she was full of smiles

that couldn't get out until now!

Following therapy is play time with Daddy!

We are so thankful Ema's Grandma & Grandpa Martin
are close enough to go over for visits!
It would be hard to think of Rick & Melanie being there alone.

Love that they can be there to see the progress!

Love this picture!

~ ~ ~

Again..thanks for all your prayers & love!

Please remember to pray for Ema's parents, too.

They need strength, widsom & good, restful nights.

Yay! Time for a Stampin' Workshop!!

2011-02-28T21:13:00.311-07:00

Here's a couple of samples I demonstrated and made at

Tammi's workshop.

I showed a variety of uses for the Big Shot & Stampin' punches.

The more I use my Big Shot, the more I want to use my Big Shot!

Find it in the Stampin' Up! Catalog Page 204

Each of these projects were made using the Big Shot,

either by cutting or embossing.

We made this card at our demonstrator meeting & loved it
(who wouldn't love the purses)
so I used it again at Tammi's workshop.

The designer paper is one of the items you can get FREE during
Sale-a-bration!
I used the Ice Cream Parlor paper
pg. 7 in the Sale-a-bration mini catalog.

The Daffodil Delight card stock was run through the Big Shot
Square Lattice embossing folder (pg. 214)

I used the Frosted White Ink for the

little purse "closures". (pg. 195)

This ink is so pretty and comes in 3 colors.

You can also make your own shimmery paper by putting a few drops of this ink

in a spritzer filled with rubbing alcohol.

The Cupcake Punch, sold in the Occasions Mini catalog pg. 22, was used for the purses. Punch just the bottom part of the cupcake, turn upside down so the scallops are on the bottom and apply handles made from two sizes of oval punches. Punch the small oval first then center the larger oval over the smaller oval punched out area.

The purse "flap" was made with the 3/4" circle punch. (pg 203)

I used the Stampin' Dimensionals to apply the purses.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Isn't this black & white butterfly card elegant?!

I saw one similar on-line but changed it for my card.

I'm anxious to make it in a variety of colors.
A beautiful & quick card!

This is the Beautiful Wings Embosslit Die that I used. (pg. 215)

How cool is that? It embosses the wings & cuts out the butterflies!

Elegant Bouquet on page 214 is the name of the embossing folder I used.

No wonder the card looks Elegant.

I used the same ink for the center of the flowers and body of the butterfly.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Do you see our little Ema's picture on my travel mug?!

This project started to pop as soon as I ran the Daffodil Delight card stock through the Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder. (pg 214)

It immediately became more cheerful!

Two Tags Die Perfect Polka Dots folder

The Hershey's Nugget holder is made from the

Two Tags Big Shot die (pg. 206)

Cut out two of the tags on the left and adhere together at the score lines.

The other punches used are the 1 3/4" Scallop Punch, Scallop Trim Border Punch (pg.201) & the Decorative Label Punch on pg. 30 of the Occasions Mini catalog.
The "For You" stamp is from the Punch Bunch stamp set
& the ribbon are both part of the free merchandise from
the Sale-a-bration catalog.

Stampin' is GREAT when you have Cabin Fever!

Thanks for hostessing, Tammi!

You can order any of these items from my web site.

http://dawnmusson.stampinup.net

Just click on the Stampin' Up! Catalog on the ride side
of my blog & begin shopping!

The UPS man can deliver & you don't have to get out in bad weather!

Contact me if you have any questions

Emaline's beautiful blue eyes are healthy!

2011-02-27T23:01:00.000-07:00

Emaline's ophthalmology appointment on Friday (25th) went very well. Her ocular health is great. She wasn't in the mood for tracking objects for the doctor so he was not able to find her field of vision or blind spots. He said if she does have problems they will not get worse, so she'll be checked again in a year. As her spasms stop, her eyes should progress as well as the rest of her development. Right now, there is not a lot of concern about her tracking or following objects because she does her exercises by following her black & white toys & flash cards. It's obvious she is able to follow.

Good Shepherd Hospital is where they'll head for on Monday morning. Emaline will begin intensive therapy to work on her little muscles that were effected by the stroke and Torticollis. We'll anxiously wait to find out what they do!

Her eyes look a little brighter but smiles are still few.

Imagine this little person having to be on 3 different kinds of strong medications in the last 2 months!

I think that would take smiles away from most of us.

When I think of that, I'm so thankful and amazed again at how well she does.

She makes hair bows look soooo pretty!

Love this little dress!

Emaline is so feminine!

Peek!

Never lacking in love, hugs & care!

Ema was very well taken care of in the nursery
of her Grandpa Martin's church.

Here she is with her Mommy's dear friend.

No worries here!

She was very loved!

Thank you Marcie!

A day at CHOP ~ Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

2011-02-24T17:55:00.000-07:00

Our fears confirmed...
....but not all gloom!

The two previous EEGs did NOT show Infantile Spasms (I.S.), even though they showed a lot of abnormal brain activity. However, Ema's first EEG at CHOP showed that Emaline DOES have Infantile Spasms.
Our first research on the spasms was pretty devastating news but doctors have been encouraging and we've learned they are not as bad as we first thought. If the spasms can be stopped, Ema will be able to progress and develop much more easily. Her motor skills have been affected so each week the therapist works on new exercises for her.

She has started some intense steroid treatment which has some pretty tough side effects. If you are familiar with Prednisone...you know!!

The Infantile Spasms are a result of the stroke she had before she was born. At her young age though, the rest of the brain should be able to compensate, and development will take place. She has been and will continue much therapy to work on damage from the stroke and the Torticollis which she also has.

This is a sample picture of a normal EEG for a baby:

Here is a sample EEG of a baby with Infantile Spasms.

To me, it looks like this should cause headaches.

I'm amazed she can do what she is able to do!

On a happy note....

Ema gets to see her Aunt Amy who traveled

from CT to Philly.

Sleepy little sweet pea!
Love these girls!

Ema looks so little to have so many problems.

First appointment at CHOP~

A long day ahead...

Riding the train to the hospital.

She managed a beautiful little smile even though she was feeling very perky.

What a sweetheart!

the Hospital

One MAJOR blessing is Ema's Grandma & Grandpa Martin live in Philadelphia
so Rick, Melanie & Emaline are staying with them.
Thankful for that!!

W A I T I N G for the EEG

Sound asleep in Daddy's arms.

Precious family!!

Four hours later....

up at 6:30 a.m.

no real nap

tests

prodding

doctors

therapists

What a strong little baby!

Blessed by so much love and prayers of people all over the world!
Thank you!

"Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee
great and mighty things, which thou knowest not."
Jeremiah 33:3

S'more good news!

2011-02-18T09:37:00.000-07:00

GOOD NEWS FROM MELANIE!

"We kind of got some news on Ema's EEG that she had 1 1/2 weeks ago. Her specialist in Seattle has been out of the office (which explains why we hadn't heard from him). Another doctor looked at it and said it's not consistent with Infantile Spasms.

Our doctor said we can stop giving her zonisamide! That's great b/c I've been wanting to stop that since she started it.

A really big blessing....law enforcement wives got together tonight, and they were wonderful and want to do anything they can to help. Sounds like they'll take care of Rick with some meals and stuff when he's home and Ema and I are in Philadelphia. It means so much that people care!”

We are so thankful Infantile Spasms have been ruled out again!!

Thank you to all who have been praying!

========*========*========*========

The kids got to come over & we got to spend the day together...which happened to be Valentine's Day. We started the day with heart shaped blueberry & banana muffins. Our friends brought their 3 babies over & joined us for brunch. Later we went to Billings & stopped briefly at Langlas so I could have "Show & Tell" with Ema, then headed to the STAGGERING OX so the kids could see my artwork and vote. :)

(Did I mention the Art Auction...the House that OX built.

A fund raiser for Habitat for Humanity.)

Ema was really tuckered out for most of the day. She is such a Sleeping Beauty, though! I really think being able to go off one medicine should help her. There's always side effects to drugs. I think more smiles will return again!

For dinner, we went to the Texas Roadhouse.

Ema enjoyed some of her Mommy's sweet potato!

"pretty in pink girls"!

Only a few more days until they see the specialist!

...more on Ema...

2011-02-10T08:27:00.002-07:00

Our pretty little bright eyed baby!

Melanie's parents live in Philadelphia.

This is what happened on

January 31st....

"Thanks to my dad marching himself down to CHOP,
they called me today.

UNFORTUNATELY they said the soonest
they could make an appointment was for March 22.

We're on their cancellation list, so may get called sooner.

I'm HOPING we can get into Good Shepherd BEFORE
our appt with CHOP,

b/c want Ema there YESTERDAY!" ~Melanie

One day later...

"I LOVE my pediatrician that I had growing up!!!!

Dr. Corcoran called the doctor of the stroke program
at CHOP and they called today
saying they "moved things around"
and could get us in Feb 22!!!!

HOORAY!
And Good Shepherd pretty much said
we can come anytime,

so Philadelphia, here we come!!!!
The Lord works everything out!" ~Melanie

(CHOP is the Children's Hospital of Pennsylvaia
where they'll see the specialist

& Good Shepherd is the hospital
where Ema will have therapy.)

February 8th...

Ema had another EEG.

She didn't care care at all for being hooked up again,
but after being swaddled & held by her Mommy, she soon fell asleep, plopped out her pacifier and slept through the whole test!

We are still waiting on the results.

Therapy is helping her neck!

Here is a picture of her with her Noggin Nest.
Isn't that a cute name?

This helps her hold her head and neck straight.

She is 6 months old already!

Her Mommy decided to put away most of the 0-3 months clothes

so she is now in 3-6 mo. size.

You can see her sleeves have to be rolled....
but that's ok...I have to roll my sleeves, too!

She's so sweet...you wouldn't know she's having such troubles.
I wish I knew what she thinks of all of this.
I do know
she knows
how loved she is!

February 9th...
More good news!!!

A local philanthropist gives a donation to Family Outreach
(early intervention)
to someone in Gallatin County every year,
and guess what????

They are paying for the plane tickets for Rick & Melanie
to go to Philadelphia!!!!!!!

The Lord knows every need and is blessing in the midst of the trials!

Not only is our little family being blessed but they are a such a testimony & blessing to so many others!

Melanie works one a morning a week at an assisted living place in Bozeman.

The residents LOVE when she takes Ema in to visit.

She said this man became a "new man" when holding Ema.
See the JOY on this lady's face?!

She is such a JOY

Loved by so many

&

Prayed by more people
than we'll ever know.

Thank you, all!

Stay tuned for updates as we get them!

Finished piece for the art auction...

2011-02-01T23:16:00.000-07:00

Here's my piece for the Habitat for Humanity

art auction held at the Staggering Ox.

-----------------*---------------------*----------------

This is my "steam" rising from the cup of coffee.

I used a different glue to get a finer, more controlled line of glue for the ground coffee.

After it dried, I gently brushed

away loose coffee...and off came the "steam"!

I was pretty bummed at first but realized it was for the good.

Now it looked more like steam rising!

The glue works well for card stock but not oil paint!

-----------------*---------------------*----------------

Here's the close up of the steam & varnished coffee beans.

I'm enJOYing my Coffee Art....

...I have more "old" beans, too! :D

Coffee Art...

2011-01-30T22:26:00.000-07:00

What do you do with old coffee beans & ground coffee?

Make art!

My brother Doug, is having an art show at his restaurant,

Staggering Ox, to benefit Habitat for Humanity.

This is my "practice" piece.

For several weeks, I've wanted to try using

old coffee beans and ground coffee in art pieces for our kitchen.

Unless I come up with another inspiration overnight,

I'll make a similar one for the art show.

The art show is on display February 1st through March 31st and will be sold using a sealed bid auction. There will also be a People's Choice award.

(Un-varnished below)

I varnished the coffee beans to give them gloss.

MUG SHOT!

Each artist can choose to donate 100% or 70%

of what their piece sells for.

Stop at

Staggering Ox.

Take a look at the art work & have lunch!

Feb 1st - March 31st

Stampin Up!'s favorite time of the year!!!

2011-01-28T18:34:00.002-07:00

...& my favorite, too!

It's time for sale-a-bration!

I LOVE getting free products, don't you?!

Choose from stamps sets, papers, buttons & more...free with every $50 purchase!

The new Occasions Mini Catalog has lots of new products and ideas.
"Click" on the catalogs at the right side of page to check them out or

go to my website to see more and place an order!

~Think of the free items you'll get~

EnJOY looking...it's good for Cabin Fever!

Update on Emaline....

2011-01-27T10:17:00.001-07:00

Ema started one more prescription to try to help with the seizures.

This new one isn't even normally given to babies so had to broken down by the pharmacist.

So far, it hasn't seemed to help a lot but then she's only been on it about a week.

It's hard, humanly, to think "Why isn't it working yet!?"

We have to remind ourselves that she was diagnosed less than a month ago.

From our visit at the time of her dr. appointments to last week end,

we see a lot of improvement!

She is happy to stay awake longer, shows more interest in her toys

and her bright eyes and smiles are back!

This is how her Mommy gives Ema her medicine...

little drops at a time. She's a very good girl and with the help of

her pacifier, swallows it right down!

The night we got to Bozeman, we picked up Melanie & Emaline and went to Applebee's where Rick met us for dinner. I don't think anyone in the place did not ooooh and aahhhh over our little Sweet Pea!

Waiters, waitresses and customers from across the room!

(I wish this wasn't so dark.)

I love seeing Ema's Daddy (in uniform) kissing his little girl!

Isn't she peaceful? Proud Grandpa/Dad!

We went for a walk right before sunset. A beautiful day!

Ema was snug inside her Mommy's coat.

Loved this picture the best....

Then we got to this picture!

Of course my eyes filled with tears.

LOVE, love this little baby!

Some really good news.....insurance will help Rick & Melanie with

the children's hospital in Philadelphia!!!

Such an answer to prayer!

Now they are just waiting for their appointment...& after seeing the PA weather report

and pictures of her parent's house, it's good the appointment isn't now!

God is good...

whatever He chooses to do!

...and it's only the middle of January...

2011-01-20T23:23:00.002-07:00

{The words to an old song but so perfect to start this year.}

He (God) giveth more grace when the burdens grow greater;
He sendeth more strength when the labors increase;
To added affliction He addeth His mercy; to multiplied trials, His multiplied peace.

When we have exhausted our store of indurance, When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources, Our Father's full giving is only begun.

His love has no limit; His grace has no measure; His pow'r has no boundary known unto men.
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus, He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again!   ~Annie Johnson Flint (1866-1932

So far, we've had an emotional, trying sometimes sad, but blessed year.
...By January 15th,
          a friend passed away.
                  We hurt so much for our best friend who lost his Dad.

Since the New Year weekend, our granddaughter has had weight loss, an MRI (on her 5 month birthday)
   an EEG, Dr. appointments and therapy sessions.

She's also had so much loving, hugs & kisses from parents, both sets of grandparents, a great grandma & great aunt & uncle. So many people from the east coast to the west coast, Canada to Texas, Japan to Mozambique & who knows all the points in between, have been praying & seeing answers to prayer for our Ema.

Prior to these events, with such active parents, Ema has done more in her first few months of life than many adults do in years. She has camped in the Tetons in a tent, hiked the "M", canoed, fished, gone blueberry picking & hunting. (I've probably left out some of her activities.)

Here we are after church the day after Christmas. We "hiked' through the woods and snow to get great scenery. Rick & Melanie always know where to go!

Not many days later, Rick & Melanie noticed some physical issues with their precious baby.

They made a Dr. appointment right away.

Ema had lost her smiles and the brightness in her eyes.

This was a strong indication that she was not feeling well.

Our worst fear was that she had Infantile Spasms. The results of this would not be good.

The MRI ruled out the spasms & indicated that Ema had a stroke before she was born.

The stroke caused a large cyst to form in the left side of her brain.

The right side of her little body is affected but she does have strength in that

side & physical therapy will continue to help.
The stroke and cyst have started to cause her to have little "episodes".
It's really hard to see your children or grandchild go through such trials.
You'd trade places with them in an instant if you could!

She was given a prescription to start right away and within a few doses,

we could begin to see a positive change.

Her smiles and bright eyes were coming back and she had gained her weight back!

Ema & her little Sweet Pea had a great time sharing stories. She was so happy for the longest time while we had this "photo shoot"

The gigantic mosquito from Aunt Lynn has a lot of fun little features.He looks like her little protector!

I thought the caterpillar from my brother was really cute....until I noticed it is taller than me!

Really, the caterpillar is adorable! The alphabet is stitched on one side and pictures beginning with each letter are on the other side. Ema will love this for a long time to come!

It was recommended to get some black and white toys so Ema could see the contrasting colors better.

I found this fluffy, soft panda bear. He's very cuddly & loves Ema!

Ema is so sweet, petite and so very loved to go through all of this but is such a little trooper.

Just when you think your heart can't hold any more...you love even more!!!

Four generations!

My beautiful Mom is always there for support!

Ema also has torticollis which causes her little head to want to be turned.

She can turn her head but it is uncomfortable for her.

This has caused a little vision problem mostly because the muscles have not been used.

With exercise and therapy, we feel this will also be taken care of.

This little family will be heading to the children's hospital in Philadelphia (where her other grandparents live!)

as soon as all the arrangements are made.

She'll see a specialist there and we'll get many of our questions answered

and learn what needs to be done next.
If God chooses, He can remove the cyst by the time they get to that hospital.
If not, He has a plan for Ema & her parents and will give them strength and wisdom they need!

Ema was certainly born to the right parents who will loving and faithfully give her all the care she needs.

My son & daughter-in-love have been so strong, even at the hardest times, for their little baby.

They have complete trust in God and all He has planned for them and Ema's life.

And here's our beautiful smiling baby just this week. 1/17
She was full of smiles...while shopping!

She has good days and bad days but is doing better.

We believe she will keep getting better & better!

She is SO loved and such a blessing!

Just can't quit looking at her!

...and the emotions build every time!

Love her!

One month ago...

2011-01-10T21:41:00.002-07:00

...Mother ~ daughters trip to Maui!

We had such a good time ...laughing, site seeing, eating,

soaking up the sun...just being together!

Here's just a few pictures...

The trees are so unique. I never got tired of looking at them.

Of course we took in a Luau...the Old Lahaina Luau complete with fire dancer. One of the rest authentic ones where we were served rather than a buffet line.

The sun set by 6:30 each night.

Even though it set quickly, it was beautiful and a joy to catch it in time!

On the Road to Hana...... This road has room for one vehicle in most places....and a man living there was going to prove it to us!!

It has over 640 hairpin turns. We saw some of the most interesting trees, wild chickens along the road, waterfalls & pools,

beautiful flowering trees, cactus. Cactus?! Who would have thought!

One of many waterfalls...

The guy in the middle was our tour guide for the Road to Hana.

He was very interesting and a lot of fun!

He thought we were fun, too, and asked if we'd come back the next day! : )

I just wanted to capture the beauty, bring it home and share it!

Flowers were everywhere!

We enjoyed a beautiful sunset on the dinner cruise.

Too dark for a picture? No. Actually, it is one of me that I finally like. ;)

Lots of surfers...

We had one rainy day....but who cared?!

The rain made for fuller waterfalls!

My most favorite thing of all was snorkeling!!!

We took the Alii Nui tour. They were great.

The water was sapphire blue!

We saw whales while going out to the crater where we snorkeled!

What a treat! The whales were there a little earlier than usual.

Under water, there were so many beautiful fish, eels, "spikey things" & coral.

Just so gorgeous. I felt like I was in my own National Geographic!

I'll get or rent an underwater camera next time!

This is the snorkel crew we went with.

A part owner of the boat was from Bozeman! (wish I could say he was the friendliest...but....)

Another couple on the boat was from Billings!

Small world!

The man in the red shorts is a retired heart surgeon from Canada. His wife is sitting to the right of him. We had such a great time visiting with her. She even left us a message saying how much fun she had with us.

This shows the stairs that went right down into the water which made it so easy especially for us non-swimmers.

We liked asking the bald guy questions just to hear him talk.

He was from New Zealand. Cool accent!

Lynn & I snorkeled on our own off the beach.

Treated that time with seeing a turtle & more beautiful fish!

I was the treat for a jelly fish. I was stung slightly on the foot

and a wrist but

he got a big "bite" on the other

wrist...& I still have the marks to prove it.

Did I mention I LOVE TO SNORKLE!?!

Needless to say...I'm ready to go back!

Lots of Christmas cards....just not mine

2010-12-01T10:27:00.000-07:00

I was asked to make the invitations for the office Christmas Dinner.

Of course! I'd love to!

I can't bring myself to make a "no layer" card

(which would have been ok for this occasion) so

this is what I came up with

without getting too carried by

adding too many more steps to the card.

I started out using Real Red card stock but ran out and

finished off with Certainly Celery.

The Celery ones have a more festive feel.

Maybe I should have started with Celery : )

(I like both anyway.)

Recipe Card Swap...

2010-11-12T11:55:00.000-07:00

Cut lots of ovals and here's what you get...

Pumpkins!

I was in a recipe card swap...but only two other people participated.

I was looking forward to new recipes but totally understand.

There's just not time to do everything!

To make this 6" square card, the punches I used are the

Large & Extra Large Oval, Two Step Bird Extra Large (for the small leaves), the 5-Petal Flower Extra Large for the bigger leaves

& the Modern Label Extra large.

For texturing, I used the Big Shot Square Lattice embossing folder.

Using the flourish stamp from the ELEMENTS OF STYLE, (pg 133),

I stamped in Soft Suede ink on the same color card stock.

Other colors used are More Mustard, Pumpkin Pie (how appropriate!)

Garden Green & Cajun Craze

The recipe is in the pocket!

I shaded each of the ovals to give depth to the pumpkins.

I really like how they turned out!

These are the other two cards I received in the exchange...

Wearable Art...

2010-11-04T09:10:00.001-06:00

I'm pretty excited!

The owner of an art gallery in downtown Billings

wanted my handmade scarves for her winter art show.

Besides her own art work, she shows works of other local artists.

She was really pleased with my scarves and

the name I've chosen for them.

Here is my Logo...

Black & White with a touch of color is the theme for her show.

My scarves along with art work, pottery and jewelry from other artists

will provide the color.

This show will be in her gallery from November through January.

These three scarves make great "collars".

The middle loopy scarf has a button closure.

& can be buttoned between any of the stitches.

The other ruffley scarves make really cute,

feminine collars besides adding warmth.

The first several scarves I made were totally

out of my comfort zone

made in brown tones.

To my shock, not every woman's favorite colors are pink & purple! :o

I made a baker's dozen scarves in a variety of lengths, colors...with fringe...without fringe.

I really hope they all sell...& maybe she'd even have call me & say make s'more!

but...if they don't...I'll have lots of gifts on hand :)

Here is her invitation for her show...

Time to make Christmas cards & gifts...

2010-10-21T08:34:00.000-06:00

Now is the time to get started!

Avoid the Holiday Rush!

http://www.stampinup.com/us/documents/Stamp_Set_Bundles_US.pdf

Stamping....I kinda remember what that is like....

2010-10-18T21:15:00.000-06:00

Since Labor Day weekend, my father-in-law has been living with us. We waited for several weeks to find out if he could get into one of the sr. housing apartments in town. After finding out it was not a possibility, we again reassured him he was welcome to live with us. After having just the two of us for quite awhile, we are adapting, making lots of changes personally and in the house. Last Monday was spent moving our furniture, boxes of things-to-stamp-on, computer, etc., etc...to make room for my father-in-law's things. Now I have lots of stacks of boxes to go through not counting lots of stuff that got moved into my stamp studio. It will be an a-MAZE-ing thing for me to make my way to my desk!

Three days after moving furniture, we got company. Cousins of my father-in-law had been wanting to come for years and finally had the chance. They are sweet people who also love the Lord & I'm glad we got to have them in our home. (Does that make them 3rd or 4th cousins by marriage?! Why don't we say great & great-great cousins since we say great aunt/uncle & great-great aunt/uncle....hmmmmmm)

It was fun cooking for a 'crowd' again so we included even more by inviting my parents and our best friends over for dinner before the cousins left.

Two Step Stamps

2010-09-22T09:18:00.000-06:00

This is a birthday card I made for my "apple loving" friend.

I know she likes sunflowers, too, so I thought I'd do something

besides apples this year.

This stamp is from a retired set but the same technique can be used with any Two-Step Stampin' stamps.

Two-Step Stampin'

First, I stamped the big flower and stem with Versa Mark then colored with

Stampin' Pastels (chalk)

Next, I stamped the detail stamps with Versa Mark

on top of the flower and leaves

and again colored with Stampin' Pastels using accent colors.

You can get so much shading and depth to your artwork this way.

Ema's first bracelet

2010-09-19T14:36:00.001-06:00

Ema's first (of many) bracelets. A tiny heart charm is attached. I'm thinking I'll try to attach a heart on each one I make for her.

This is the box I made to gift wrap the bracelet,

using the SU Bitty Box & Envelope bigz xl Die.

After cutting the box out, I ran the card stock through

the Big Shot again using the

Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder.

The box is only 2 1/2" square, so you can tell how teeny the bracelet is!

The bracelet is a bit big for Ema's wrist but

worked perfectly on her ankle for now.

You can see her little bracelet peeking out under her dress!

She's our Little Sweet Pea!!!

Love her!

just a jar o' berries

2010-09-16T14:33:00.001-06:00

Did you know....

if you keep unwashed berries in a glass jar with the lid on,

they'll keep much longer.

Also, don't wash berries until you are ready to use them.

Wash them before removing the stem so they keep their flavor by not absorbing the water.

Is your mouth watering yet?

I love a spinach salad made with any or all of the following...

strawberries, pears, dried cherries & cranberries,

caramelized pecans, coconut...

If I don't have my special salad dressing on hand,

I just drizzle with a little honey.

Oh yumm!

It's so pretty, too!

A cup of encouragement...

2010-09-14T16:20:00.000-06:00

A friend is going through a trying time right now.

This mug with "Blessed" written not once but three times

shouted her name to me so I bought it.

I filled it with slips of paper with favorite encouraging Bible verses, other happy thoughts, tea and a little chocolate.

It did bless her and made her day a little brighter!

A little glimmer added...

2010-09-13T08:32:00.000-06:00

I used a gel pen to highlight the humming bird, flower and scalloped edges.

Struggling with layout...

2010-09-11T16:16:00.000-06:00

Sometimes, the layout of a card just doesn't want to work!
I started this card last night...didn't care for it so left it until today. Sometimes, leaving a card and going back to it helps. Today, I still was not impressed. Here's a few ways I laid it out...

This is what I finally came up with..

Instead of layering a bigger scallop circle behind the stamped image, I used the same sized circle with the center cut out to frame the image. Adding a little ribbon never hurts! Stampin' Pastels were used for coloring. I used the Big Shot to make a textured card stock. I still may some glimmer!