tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68006886547703566312024-03-13T15:49:03.764-05:00Abbey's Attic...where crafts, cats, and a bit of chat are always welcome.Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.comBlogger47125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-72969727351852841192016-04-15T15:07:00.000-05:002016-04-16T01:46:19.221-05:00Goodbye Chores, Hello Plushie!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-goGnp7Xc_LI/VxE6T2P93CI/AAAAAAAAB74/FRep1byqVlorlo8viaNq9eaQBI-njBBegCKgB/s1600/IMG_5240cc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-goGnp7Xc_LI/VxE6T2P93CI/AAAAAAAAB74/FRep1byqVlorlo8viaNq9eaQBI-njBBegCKgB/s640/IMG_5240cc.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Yesterday began as any ordinary day usually does. Some days I have a mental list of things to be done, errands to run, hopes to accomplish. And some days, like yesterday, I have a written list just waiting for the check marks indicating finished tasks. A small reward, but a treat none the less. Yesterday's list included a crafty task: make a plushie (or feltie as Simon Says Stamp calls them). As I began all the other tasks, saving the fun one for last, I began to think about sitting on the deck in the afternoon sun stitching up my plushie. Oh what a treat that would be! After all, I reasoned (I can be very good at reasoning when it's to my advantage!), our spring days of perfection are so very numbered here in the midwest before summer's heat sends us scurrying indoors and chores, well, chores can be done this evening. So I selected my colors from some Taylored Expressions and Papertrey Ink felt, die cut the Simon Says Stamp Plush Springtime Bunny and accessories, gathered all my supplies in a very small basket and headed out to the deck. </div>
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It was the perfect day for such a project, sitting on the deck stairs dressed in t-shirt sleeves with a spring breeze and dappled sunlight dancing through the not quite leafed out old Maple tree. It has been quite a few years since I have enjoyed hand sewing (cross stitch was once my passion until card making came along) and I had forgotten how I once loved sitting with needle and thread in hand, enchanted as colors played and designs emerged on the canvas before me. This little plush bunny brought the same delight as I added her features, embellished, and saw her come to life. She did indeed bring giddy smiles over the evening as I picked her up from time to time, petting her, thinking about the leisurely time spent outdoors this afternoon.</div>
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I decided to make her a lop eared bunny instead of the ones found in nature with their ears straight up like the photo on the SSS die indicates. I added a small pleat at the top of the ear to give it a bit of dimension, and if anyone wants a peak, the inside is lined in pink.</div>
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I began by stitching the outline on the ears in a running stitch, but then realized it didn't look as nice as I had hoped on the back side. When I stitched the bodies together, I stitched every other stitch using three strands of embroidery floss and then went back around stitching the skipped stitches. I used a very small amount of fiberfill as stuffing and some Recollections adhesive pearls for the eye and the flower centers. Her whiskers were made from four strands of the same embroidery floss used to stitch her body, and then slightly coated with a tiny amount of Tacky Glue to give them a bit of stiffness. The rolled roses and leaves are included with the die as well as a couple of buttons and a daisy flower. I sprinkled in a few french knots and added a bit of stitching to the leaves for more dimension. Her tail is the rose die before it is rolled to make the flower.</div>
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Simon Says Stamp is having a Plush Contest on Instagram and I'm submitting this little lop eared bunny. If you have an IG account, you can follow me by clicking the small camera icon above on the right side bar menu or search for abbeys_attic on IG. You may also view the other contest entries by searching for #sssplushcontest. </div>
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I hope each of you is taking time out to enjoy the beauty of spring. And, if you're anything like me, those yesterday's chores are still waiting for today! Oh, but there's no way to recapture a day like I enjoyed, so I'll take them as they come, and look out plushie, there just may be a buddy in your very near future on another tempting spring day!</div>
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A blessed spring to you,</div>
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Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-59419370924262312432016-03-27T18:12:00.001-05:002016-04-07T14:06:26.868-05:00Morning Has Broken!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"Sweet the rain's new fall, sunlit from heaven,</div>
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Like the first dew fall, on the first grass.</div>
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Praise for the sweetness of the wet garden,</div>
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Sprung in completeness where his feet pass."</div>
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<i>-- Mark Stevens</i></div>
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"Morning has broken." Rebirth, renewal and re-creation are upon us once again. Indeed, this is one of my favorite songs on Easter Sunday as we celebrate our risen Savior. We awoke to a snowy Easter Sunday this morning here in the Midwest, big, fat, fluffy flakes silently descending upon the waiting earth. It was quite the sight to behold since our winter had been so mild. And by this afternoon, a bit of warming and glorious bright sunshine, so fine for this day of celebration!</div>
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I'm sharing a fun little Easter card I made this year. I wanted to do something "cute" since I just received the Simon Says Stamp set, "Melody's Easter." A set filled with cute!</div>
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The background for the sheep and bunny was cut from the My Favorite Things "Stitched Arch Stax," distressed, and flicked with some water from a paint brush to add depth. The animals were spot colored with Prismacolor pencils and the sheep was paper pieced with some paper run through an embossing folder for a bit of texture for her fur. The bunny's and sheep's feet were coated with Wink of Stella and Glossy Accents for some shine and sparkle. I clear embossed the sentiment on patterned paper from the Simon Says Stamp March Card Kit, my first kit. I'm looking forward to using those cute Peeps bunnies on some spring cards yet this season. A few sequins from the kit added a bit of springtime bling. Several Simon Says products on this card, so I'm entering this in the Simon Says Stamp Flickr Challenge #41, <a href="https://www.flickr.com/groups/simonsaysstamp/discuss/72157666020873336/" target="_blank">"Anything Goes."</a></div>
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I hope each of you has had a most joyous and blessed Easter filled with hope and renewal. And, maybe, just a bit of chocolate, too! </div>
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Blessings,</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Materials:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Paper: Neenah Solar White; Bazzill; Echo Park "Spring"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: PTI "Limeade Ice" "Lemon Tart"; Ranger "Abandoned Coral"; Versafine Black</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dies: MFT "Stitched Arch Stax"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: SSS "Melody's Easter"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: SSS March Card Kit; We R Memory Keepers Embossing Folder "Woven"; Prismacolor Pencils; Wink of Stella</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Glossy Accents; WOW Clear Embossing Powder</span></div>
Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-86828824521896680182016-03-19T22:49:00.001-05:002016-03-19T22:49:54.585-05:00Listening<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It has been quite a long, unintended blog break since last April except for a couple of special day posts and a Valentine to share. Last spring found me busily cleaning the backyard, moving plants, creating a few new planting areas, and doing general cleanup after two years of neglect. The activity continued until the Midwest heat and humidity sent me scurrying back inside when I busied myself with tending to long neglected things on the "to do list for someday," when "someday" finally arrived. I began this post in late November, Christmas is already past, winter arrived in her full glory mild though she was, and spring is beckoning once again, ever beckoning. Over and over again I rediscover the renowned truth that time indeed doesn't wait for me.</div>
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In amongst the busyness I have been listening attentively, especially the last few months.</div>
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Listening to birdsong at the feeders in early spring last year as this mama downey woodpecker fed her baby, and now, as the birds feed heartily through winter's end and spring's beginning.<br />
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Listening, trying oh so hard, to listen to the beat of butterfly wings in late summer.<br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">Listening to the wind in the trees as autumn's coming ushered summer on its way.</span></div>
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Listening to the silence that is winter; listening for her stillness for filling, guiding, enfolding.</div>
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Listening as spring bursts forth heralding her cleansing song of hope, rebirth, and renewal.<br />
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Listening. It is something I did frequently in my days as a Pastoral Assistant. There were times I was asked what my "job" involved. As I described the usual tasks, my response always ended with, "I listen." I didn't advise or counsel. I was simply available in the presence of one who needed to be heard. I listened. I was honored and humbled to share in that rare gift in which both participants receive. One is gifted by being heard and the other is gifted as the trusted recipient of words that comprise a life story. I learned, over the years, to listen to not only the spoken but also the unspoken words; oftentimes they completed a story, and I would speak them for others when they could not. The small plaque remains on my bathroom mirror, placed there when I first began my ministry, all those years ago.<br />
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It is true. It continues to impress upon me the value of listening to whoever needs to be heard, whenever I chance upon them in daily comings and goings; these days, even as I listen to myself. Ah, yes, it is often the most difficult task of all, to listen to ourselves, those internal hints and rumblings.</div>
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And so, I have been fine tuning my listening skills once again, having not practiced them as much over the last few years. I continue to listen, as I hear over and over again the conversation with Dr. S that fateful day last summer on July 27, after his examination and review of the ultrasound results. </div>
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It is the "c" word. </div>
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You know the one.</div>
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To this day it is still difficult to say the word and even harder to put in writing. Sweet, sweet Spirit, our dear girl, the good cat, the princess, the diva, sweet Spirit Anne, was diagnosed with a growth on her bladder wall. A tumor approximately the size of the little finger nail. It is the first time I have used the "t" word, preferring to reference it simply as "the growth." Somehow it seemed less invasive that way, less terrifying, less ominous, less hopeless, even less real. There was no way to diagnose if the tumor was malignant, but in most cases, when located in the bladder, it is cancerous. There, I did it. Both words in writing, in the same sentence. It is real. To biopsy the tumor meant the risk of spreading the possible cancer. And so we assumed the worst and provided the best treatment possible. Spirit was experiencing blood in her urine in May and again in July without any sign of infection. Sometimes there can be an infection that doesn't show up when the urine is examined. An ultrasound was done with the expectation there might be a bladder stone; a good thing, all in all, treatable. But that was not to be. Spirit also had kidney dysfunction since December 2011 and was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism in May 2015. There wasn't anything to be done for the hyperthyroidism or the tumor since any treatment would have been too detrimental to her already weakened kidneys. It may have caused kidney failure. I asked the question, the one I always fear asking, but know I must, so I may plan how to spend my days. TC taught me well what matters most is time spent with loved ones. "How long do we have?" And Dr. S's response was, "Four to six months. It could be longer." I listened, as I knew to do, to his kind, unspoken words. "It could be fewer." And I knew, in the depths of my heart from watching her over the following days and weeks, "fewer" was the greater reality.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">September, 2015</td></tr>
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Spirit was doing well until the week of September 13; eating well, gaining a bit of weight, sunning herself at the front door as the heat of summer gave way to cooler mornings beckoning her to enjoy the approaching Autumn days. I cannot go into the details of all that transpired this week; the words are not there, and perhaps it isn't even necessary. Suffice it to say, it was a difficult week of emergency phone calls and visits to the vet. I am writing to let you know it is believed our sweet girl suffered a stroke, possibly several, sometime between September 18 and 19. We bid her peace just shortly after noon on the 19th, cradled in our arms, held so very close I didn't think we would ever be able to let her go. </div>
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Spirit was 17, a smallish cat weighing nine to ten pounds in her prime, with a personality as huge as the chasm her absence has left in our hearts. She had the biggest, loudest purr and raspiest meow that reminded us she was in our midst. She made the rules and she enforced her rules for our entire family. She was the boss, the princess, the diva. She could also be the wild child. She did everything in a big way. She was named Spirit for a reason, for all the trials she had to overcome when she first appeared on August 28, 1998 as a malnourished, critically ill stray in our neighborhood. Her absence continues to leave its mark on our family because her presence was so impressive. Our home is not only empty now, but continues to experience a vacancy of spirit. It is the void of her presence. Time has once again become my friend for I have tread this path before. My plan was to document Spirit's journey the same as I did for TC. The busyness took over and unexpectedly I ran out of time. It has been six months today; holding her in my arms, listening to her purr, and feeling her soft fur still a vivid memory. I close my eyes and I feel her head butts upon my chin, her face rubbing my face. It doesn't seem possible, six months of days, and yet, the tears now are most often replaced with smiles, comforting memories of a gentle soul that continues to inhabit our spirits. I plan to tell Spirit's story as it is one I wish to share with those who care to read it. But even today, I haven't the words. They will become known, in their own time, when I can embrace their presence and give voice to her story. For now, I invite you to share with me a brief photo journey of 17 years loving one beloved gentle cat, our sweet, sweet Spirit.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First photo - September 28, 1998. She was 8 months old and weighed only 4lbs 7 oz. <br />
She spent her first month "with us" in quarantine at the vet's office. I visited her daily.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First bath - Fall, 1998</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer, 1999</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A favorite photo - September, 1999</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another favorite photo - 1999</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">November 10, 2001</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">December, 2001</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">December 19, 2002</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">June, 2005</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JfcTGJXiFZY/Vu30kqKUCgI/AAAAAAAAB4s/KjNTpm7GSfMlYMpiUQ_uXaV4RAwL7q5og/s1600/CRW_5944cc%2BSpirit%2B082605%2Bwatermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JfcTGJXiFZY/Vu30kqKUCgI/AAAAAAAAB4s/KjNTpm7GSfMlYMpiUQ_uXaV4RAwL7q5og/s400/CRW_5944cc%2BSpirit%2B082605%2Bwatermark.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Another favorite - August 26, 2005</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J-zPOl7pfD8/Vu4KiJRsAVI/AAAAAAAAB54/HUsA0WSZrQcmaEM9KEBQ0fRWkQr1opLAg/s1600/IMG_8464cc%2Bwatermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J-zPOl7pfD8/Vu4KiJRsAVI/AAAAAAAAB54/HUsA0WSZrQcmaEM9KEBQ0fRWkQr1opLAg/s400/IMG_8464cc%2Bwatermark.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">December 31, 2006</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">December 25, 2007</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MEecJSyAOvk/Vu3vd1Nb7oI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/l_Q-DZrIuUQtRlB7sDhudz25z-9CqnRWA/s1600/IMG_2876cc%2Bwatermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MEecJSyAOvk/Vu3vd1Nb7oI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/l_Q-DZrIuUQtRlB7sDhudz25z-9CqnRWA/s400/IMG_2876cc%2Bwatermark.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">April 29, 2010</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WKkMKuCSSvI/Vu34JqB4RHI/AAAAAAAAB44/jL_4TL16LJcvXtRK0sK4EY-w_UTPhvNOQ/s1600/IMG_5423cc%2Bwatermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WKkMKuCSSvI/Vu34JqB4RHI/AAAAAAAAB44/jL_4TL16LJcvXtRK0sK4EY-w_UTPhvNOQ/s400/IMG_5423cc%2Bwatermark.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">October 25, 2011</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">October 31, 2011</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">November 28, 2011<br /></td></tr>
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Blessed be your heart, sweet Princess Spirit.</div>
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Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-45707793020635446662016-02-28T21:47:00.000-06:002016-02-28T21:47:31.084-06:00Valentine...<div class="separator" id="ssnoshadow" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm running later than planned with posting this year's valentines, but better late than never, I suppose. A few unexpected occurrences the week of Valentine's Day (our refrigerator, already on its last leg, decided to completely fizzle three days before the new one was due to arrive) and a cold/flu last week that sent me scurrying beneath the covers for three days of solid nothingness (such an unusual occurrence here!) has meant that I'm just now playing catch up.</div>
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My friend requested I make a gift bag for her nephew for Christmas with an elephant on it. I used one of the cute elephants from WPlus9, "Unforgettable" and added a Santa hat diecut to make it a bit more festive. It was quite sparkly in real life with Diamond Stickles added to each of the snowflakes and the white trim on the hat. The "merry" was cut from DCWV green glitter paper.</div>
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I am sharing this bag because when it came time to think about Valentines, I knew just what I wanted to make for her. I admit I do have a soft spot for cute animals, and when Birdie Brown's "Adorable Elephants" was finally in stock, it was destined to have a home in the Attic. Every now and then I design a valentine that has lots of layers and is specifically a "love" type of card. Usually I tend to gravitate toward valentine designs that can be remade for other occasions, often times with a simple sentiment. This is one such design, that by simply leaving off "valentine," could be sent for all types of reasons:</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-naTc3jsWhMo/VtO3YukJV3I/AAAAAAAAB0s/nq-HTPea6Ew/s1600/IMG_4961cc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-naTc3jsWhMo/VtO3YukJV3I/AAAAAAAAB0s/nq-HTPea6Ew/s640/IMG_4961cc.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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And inside, quite simply:</div>
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That she does. Every day. On all types of occasions, in all ways, and always! And she is loved!<br />
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Hugs,<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Materials:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Neenah Solar White; SSS Sea Glass; Ranger Distress Watercolor Paper</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: MFT "Adorable Elephants"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dies: MFT "Stacked Cloud Edges"; TE "Frame in Frame"; ME "Happy Valentine's Day", "All Prettied Up"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> SSS "Stacked Hearts"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Peacock Feathers; Broken China; Versafine Onyx Black</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Prismacolor Pencils; Wink of Stella; Glossy Accents; SSS Asst'd Moonshine Sequins</span></div>
Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-71944483995082899802016-02-14T17:46:00.001-06:002016-02-14T17:54:32.388-06:00Can't Make Just One!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3aFLoDAPrMw/Vr08is5bnwI/AAAAAAAAByY/Cz7XmwLC3eA/s1600/prettypinkposhvalentinechallenge2-e1454139253662.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3aFLoDAPrMw/Vr08is5bnwI/AAAAAAAAByY/Cz7XmwLC3eA/s400/prettypinkposhvalentinechallenge2-e1454139253662.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Pretty Pink Posh is hosting a <a href="http://prettypinkposh.com/2016/02/valentine-challenge.html" target="_blank">Valentine Challenge</a> to create a card or project inspired by one of their designers. I am relatively new to this line, but really fell for their products during their second birthday celebration as I saw the lovely things their designers had created for the festivities. And, of course, I ordered some new things, too!</div>
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My project was inspired by Liz' card; I love red and white crispness for Valentine's Day and I couldn't resist those sweet animals. As an added bonus, dh just so happened to give me the set, <a href="http://www.shopprettypinkposh.com/HolidayPals-p/stamp02.htm" target="_blank">"Holiday Pals"</a> for Christmas, one he carefully selected from the quite lengthy wish list I provided so whatever I received would be a surprise. I admire that he really does review the entire list to select his favorite (he does go for cute, like me), what he thinks is my most wished for item, or in most cases as his rational mind dictates, what he feels I will use the most...</div>
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Since I have been participating in a local scrapbooking group, I have wanted to make favors for the different holidays, but for one reason or another, never managed to complete them in time. I had watercolored several of the images from the new stamp set for the first couple of days of Kathy's 30 Day Coloring Challenge, and while doing so, thought about Valentine treats for the girls. Once I saw the above challenge, I knew just what I wanted to make!</div>
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The Lawn Fawn "Milk Carton" and Penny Black "Love Always" dies, teamed up with some gingham checks and a cute animal, and they're perfect for some Valentine M&M's and Dove chocolate hearts. The SSS "Small Heart Doily" created a great accent for the sweet animals. I first made one, and then it turned into six! Each carton featured a different animal with added spots of Diamond Stickles to the bird tummies, bunny tails, and the hat brims and pompoms for a bit of Valentine's sparkle. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NPtVCU561LM/Vr1SW-XMztI/AAAAAAAABzI/r0FnG8N6-vA/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NPtVCU561LM/Vr1SW-XMztI/AAAAAAAABzI/r0FnG8N6-vA/s640/PicMonkey%2BCollage%2B1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here they are all lined up, just before being delivered to the girls at our monthly gathering.</div>
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These were so much fun to make that I decided to give them to friends also. So, lots more die cutting and assembly, and here are seven more already delivered to loved ones.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y9WN3xeaf2E/VsAA-6Vc55I/AAAAAAAABzU/zuYveWGX4Bo/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage%2Bwatermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y9WN3xeaf2E/VsAA-6Vc55I/AAAAAAAABzU/zuYveWGX4Bo/s640/PicMonkey%2BCollage%2Bwatermark.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am also entering this project in the <a href="https://www.flickr.com/groups/simonsaysstamp/discuss/72157664275941226/" target="_blank">Simon Says Flickr Challenge #38</a>, Lots of Love.<br />
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Thanks for stopping by the Attic today; I so appreciate your visit. Wishing each of you a very Happy Valentine's Day surrounded by those you love!<br />
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Hugs,<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Materials Used:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Paper: Recollections cardstock; Hobby Lobby Gingham Check; Red cardstock from the scrap basket</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Memory Box B&W check and red & white dots; Strathmore Watercolor Paper</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Pretty Pink Posh - "Holiday Pals"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dies: Lawn Fawn "Milk Carton"; Penny Black "Love Always"; Simon Says Stamp "Small Heart Doily"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Zig Clean Color Real Brush Pens; Versafine Black</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Heart Confetti; Lawn Fawn Trimmings "Red Sparkle"; Twinery Twine; Recollections Binder Clips</span></div>
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Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-25673286320135096082015-12-24T20:34:00.000-06:002015-12-24T20:34:17.178-06:00Let There be Peace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P8TnSzBtqrE/VnyjJZq4-DI/AAAAAAAAByA/2VRTpl9hKIs/s1600/DSC07597cc%2B%2Bwatermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P8TnSzBtqrE/VnyjJZq4-DI/AAAAAAAAByA/2VRTpl9hKIs/s640/DSC07597cc%2B%2Bwatermark.jpg" width="624" /></a></div>
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It has been quiet here in the Attic for quite a long time now. I am hoping to continue sharing once again in the coming new year and will update you on the latest Attic happenings then.</div>
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This is a tealight easel card made for a friend last year. Since I didn't make any Christmas cards this year, I thought I would share this one tonight, on Christmas Eve. There are several tutorials available to design this type of card, but if there any questions, please ask and I will do my best to answer them.</div>
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I wish each of you the hope, joy, and love born on that first Christmas so long ago. I pray peace to be upon our hearts and within our hearts as we round the corner to Bethlehem to greet the newborn babe. May your day be filled with wonder and delight, and may you have a holy, blessed Christmas.</div>
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Our love and hugs,</div>
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Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-16901702537986552912015-11-12T00:32:00.002-06:002015-11-12T00:32:54.772-06:00Remembering<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rms8E0tayqg/VkQOxrHRxJI/AAAAAAAABxc/wF9xIdh5UG8/s1600/IMG_7697cc%2Bwatermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rms8E0tayqg/VkQOxrHRxJI/AAAAAAAABxc/wF9xIdh5UG8/s640/IMG_7697cc%2Bwatermark.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Pausing to remember our dear girl, TC, the blackest cat in all the land.<br />
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I haven't tended to this blog since Spring. General busyness and responsibilities have occupied the greater part of my Summer and Autumn. I have peeked in on several of your blogs during this time, but haven't been able to comment since I was using a tablet. My hope is to return to blogging and visiting you on a regular basis in the next couple of weeks.<br />
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This is the first scrapbook layout I've completed for TC's book. Many more photos and ideas for pages are awaiting their time to be added. I'll plan to share them here as they're finished since I have shared so much of her story already (<a href="http://abbeys-attic.blogspot.com/p/tcs-journey.html" target="_blank">TC's Journey</a>).<br />
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Hard to believe it's been a year today since I've cradled this sweet bundle of fur in my arms.<br />
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Still loving her so.<br />
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Still missing her so.<br />
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Blessed be your heart, dear TC. . .</div>
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Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-55866371431086100152015-04-09T13:12:00.000-05:002015-04-09T13:57:20.566-05:00Wishful Kitties<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FZQTOZKS-WA/VSXccGPptbI/AAAAAAAABtI/3521hty7itc/s1600/IMG_5545faststone%2Bpicmonkeycc%2Ba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FZQTOZKS-WA/VSXccGPptbI/AAAAAAAABtI/3521hty7itc/s1600/IMG_5545faststone%2Bpicmonkeycc%2Ba.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a><br />
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These two kitties sure wish they had floppy ears and a fluffy tail like the Easter Bunny. Since they look so much like him now, he just has to leave some yummy eggs and maybe a catnip carrot or two for an Easter morning surprise!</div>
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As much as the bunnies are loved here in the Attic, I couldn't let Easter slip by without making at least one card that included a bunny. This was such a fun card to design and came together much like I had envisioned. It was created with the Newton's Nook stamp sets, "Bunny Hop" and "Newton's Curious Christmas." The animals were colored with Distress Markers and water. The Christmas kitty temporarily came down from his rooftop watching Santa to take part in some Easter fun. Stardust Stickles was added to the bunny ear headbands and some sparkle pom poms (ones from the craft store that were too small for our kitty girls to play with) were attached for the tails. A portion was cut from the back side of the pom poms to make them flat, a hint I read on <a href="http://www.lucys-cards.com/2015/03/sweet-bunny-shaker-card.html" target="_blank">Lucy's Cards</a>. Of course, each of our girls got a new sparkle ball while I had them out. The animals were added to a hill cut with Lawn Fawn's Stitched Hillside Borders and the scene was framed with a combination of frames from WPlus9 and Lil Inker Designs. The "Carrot" dies from Taylored Expressions were added to the bow and the framed piece was adhered to cardstock embossed with Taylored Expressions "Lattice" folder.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8pHWt-2gRT8/VSXf1MuXDoI/AAAAAAAABtY/KfNpoo3ka0E/s1600/IMG_5559%2Bpicmonkeycc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8pHWt-2gRT8/VSXf1MuXDoI/AAAAAAAABtY/KfNpoo3ka0E/s1600/IMG_5559%2Bpicmonkeycc.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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The inside was finished with the cut away sections from the frame and hillside, along with another bunny and some eggs that were coated with a bit of Wink of Stella. The sentiment was included with the "Bunny Hop" stamp set.</div>
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I am joining Challenge #19 at <a href="http://www.newtonsnookblog.com/2015/03/inky-paws-challenge-19-use-watercolor.html" target="_blank">Newton's Nook</a> to use watercolor this month.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XWXQNK8VZ1U/VSMLhw0WTUI/AAAAAAAABsw/NOOB7_wGJKE/s1600/IPC_19_Watercolor.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XWXQNK8VZ1U/VSMLhw0WTUI/AAAAAAAABsw/NOOB7_wGJKE/s1600/IPC_19_Watercolor.PNG" height="320" width="208" /></a></div>
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Hope your Easter was filled with blessings and wishing you a wonderful, happy Spring.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Paper: Neenah Solar White; Lawn Fawn "Bright Side"; Echo Park "Carrots"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Newton's Nook: "Bunny Hop", "Newton's Curious Christmas"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dies: Lawn Fawn "Stitched Hillside Borders"; Lil Inker Designs "Stitched Rectangles";</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Taylored Expressions "Carrot"; WPlus9 "Sunshine Layers"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Taylored Expressions "Dotted Lattice" Embossing Folder; SSS Sequins; Stardust Stickles;</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Wink of Stella; Distress Markers; DMC Crochet Thread; Craft Pom Poms</span></div>
Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-35922736863807818802015-04-05T01:14:00.001-05:002015-04-05T01:14:25.033-05:00Ev'ry Morning is Easter Morning!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"Ev'ry morning is Easter morning from now on!</div>
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Ev'ry day's resurrection day, the past is over and gone!</div>
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Good-bye guilt, good-bye fear, good riddance! Hello Lord, Hello sun!</div>
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I am one of the Easter people! My new life has begun!</div>
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Ev'ry morning is Easter morning from now on!</div>
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Ev'ry day's resurrection day, the past is over and gone!</div>
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Daily news is so bad it seems the good news seldom gets heard.</div>
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Get it straight from the Easter people, God's in charge spread the word!</div>
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Ev'ry morning is Easter morning from now on!</div>
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Ev'ry day's resurrection day, the past is over and gone!</div>
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Yesterday I was bored and lonely; but today look and see!</div>
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I belong to the Easter people! Life's exciting to me!"</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 17.6000003814697px; line-height: 24.6400012969971px;">A most happy and blessed Easter to each of you, dear friends! I remember singing this song in church on Easter morning and then for several following Sundays. With the exception of "Morning Has Broken," it is one of my favorites for springtime! Written by Richard Avery and Donald Marsh in 1967, one cannot help but feel a spirit of hope and renewal when singing this uplifting tune. <a href="https://vimeo.com/22814766" target="_blank">Here</a></span> is a link to a video of a children's choir singing if you would like to listen to it.</div>
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My husband requested a religious card for Easter this year. Usually he likes nature themed cards or cute designs, but he said he wanted something for his desk at work. He thought it would be a good "challenge." He didn't know that most of the cards I planned to make this year were going to have a religious theme, so this fit quite nicely with my scheme. I die cut the Taylored Expressions "At the Cross 2" five times from some woodgrain cardstock using an old Cuttlebug plate without the metal adaptor so the die wouldn't cut all the way through and the small mosaic pieces would remain intact. The outer edges cut perfectly, which is what I was hoping. I then ran four of the crosses through the Xyron with the adhesive on the front side of the cross. I laid the fifth cross on top, with the adhesive exposed where the mosaic pieces would be inlaid.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LDVs8ZXvzuQ/VSCpEgfdNwI/AAAAAAAABrQ/IvgmMitnPuQ/s1600/IMG_5505picmonkeycc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LDVs8ZXvzuQ/VSCpEgfdNwI/AAAAAAAABrQ/IvgmMitnPuQ/s1600/IMG_5505picmonkeycc.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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I located this piece in my scrap file, a leftover practice sheet from creating <a href="http://abbeys-attic.blogspot.com/2013/09/indian-summer.html" target="_blank">these</a> cards. I'm so glad I saved it because it was just the colors dh loves, the very ones I find so difficult to use! The top right hand corner shows where I cut pieces for the bottom of the cross. I wanted a variance of colors, so cut apart small portions from specific areas, a few at a time. I carefully left them in the die or stuck to the plastic plate so I could puzzle piece them in. The center of the cross was cut from the area that was stamped with Delicata Gold ink.</div>
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Once the pieces were inlaid, I inked the edges of the cross with Gathered Twigs Distress Ink. The background piece is Rustic Cream cardstock from PaperTrey Ink. The sentiment is by Taylored Expressions "He Is Risen" and is embossed with Princess Gold embossing powder. Perfect Pearls Gold was mixed with water and flicked on to the cardstock before I cut the cross from the background piece. It was then run through the Cuttlebug with the Walking on Sunshine embossing folder. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p20KwVCiSLY/VSCpEsw40BI/AAAAAAAABrU/py8ZX_21x0E/s1600/IMG_5390picmonkeycc%2B-%2BCopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p20KwVCiSLY/VSCpEsw40BI/AAAAAAAABrU/py8ZX_21x0E/s1600/IMG_5390picmonkeycc%2B-%2BCopy.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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My original plan was to use a yellowish orange metallic cardstock for the card base, but I decided to stay with the rustic theme of the design. The card base was made from Rustic Cream cardstock. The fold line was masked and distress inks Squeezed Lemonade, Worn Lipstick, Spiced Marmalade, and Dried Marigold were applied along the edges before adhering the embossed panel. The final step was to inlay the cross into the die cut opening.</div>
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This last Monday night I was finishing the Easter cards by stamping sentiments with Versafine Black ink on parchment paper inserts. I like adding an insert page so I don't worry about stamping errors on the finished cards. The cards were lined up on the shelf above my craft desk like little soldiers awaiting their turn for completion. That's when the unthinkable, unheard of happened. Splat. Face down. Into the black ink. Dh's card. I just stood there. Gasp. I couldn't even pick it up! Once I did, there was no time for tears. I couldn't imagine how this happened. I thought I was being careful. I had to start over. And I had to finish it that night due to other obligations during the week. I completed the other cards, and while staring at the ruin before me, I began to wonder if maybe, just maybe I could peel away the top layer of the cross and the embossed piece. That wouldn't be so much to fix, I reasoned, trying to convince myself the situation was better than I imagined. </div>
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As you can see, the pieces were beyond any butterfly or sequin camouflage. I thought about giving the card to dh as it was with a sticky note attached to the front with arrows, "ink happens!" but since he wanted it for his desk at work, I knew a redo was necessary. I was indeed able to pull everything apart and simply cut another cross from the woodgrain cardstock, another tiny orange mosaic piece, and redo the embossed and stamped layer. I used the torn piece above as a template for where to die cut the cross so the new panel would fit over the original cross. Not such a difficult task after all. An hour or so later, all was right once again. </div>
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That's what today is about, isn't it? Mistakes made right because of love. Sometimes it takes a lot of effort; sometimes not so much at all, and we're surprised. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easter Lily from dear friends.</td></tr>
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Forgiven, redeemed, renewed; we begin again anew. All is right in our world. </div>
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Hallelujah!</div>
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Christ is risen! He is risen, indeed!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Paper: PTI rustic Cream Cardstock; Woodgrain Cardstock</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Taylored Expressions "He Is Risen"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dies: Taylored Expressions "At the Cross 2"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Distress Inks - Squeezed Lemonade, Worn Lipstick, Spiced Marmalade, Dried Marigold, Gathered Twigs;</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Versamark; Delicata Golden Glitz</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Perfect Pearls Perfect Gold; Princess Gold Embossing Powder; Taylored Expressions "Walking on Sunshine"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Embossing Folder</span></div>
Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-72967206899654992572015-04-04T18:29:00.001-05:002015-04-04T18:29:14.797-05:00At the Cross<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xu7C7A9IXZc/VSBt4juVjAI/AAAAAAAABqo/kwaHGjbdUCc/s1600/IMG_5612%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xu7C7A9IXZc/VSBt4juVjAI/AAAAAAAABqo/kwaHGjbdUCc/s1600/IMG_5612%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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Spring has arrived here in the midwest and Easter dawns tomorrow. It is promised to be a glorious day for such an early Spring celebration.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GM7asE37LvA/VSBgR7KzwaI/AAAAAAAABpo/Ha7WIKZ00fg/s1600/IMG_5526cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GM7asE37LvA/VSBgR7KzwaI/AAAAAAAABpo/Ha7WIKZ00fg/s1600/IMG_5526cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
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This card features the Taylored Expressions "At the Cross 3" die and "Walking on Sunshine" embossing folder. The cross is framed by the Poppystamps "Grand Gothic Window" cut from Simon Says Stamp White Woodgrain paper. The assembled window was adhered to Neenah Solar White cardstock misted with Perfect Pearls and water. This layer was then adhered to Sea Glass Metallic cardstock. As I was taking photographs, I kept thinking the card needed a little something more, so a Moonshine sequin was added to the cross center and I was finally satisfied with this very small addition. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tDIo99gB3BM/VSBgRDqi_LI/AAAAAAAABpc/b_z79mmsPOQ/s1600/IMG_5405cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tDIo99gB3BM/VSBgRDqi_LI/AAAAAAAABpc/b_z79mmsPOQ/s1600/IMG_5405cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="454" /></a></div>
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The cross was temporarily adhered with Post It removeable tape to the front of an acetate sheet cut slightly larger than the window opening. I colored the back of the acetate with various colors of Sharpies and then permanently adhered the cross to the front of the acetate, leaving the edges of the cross unglued. The acetate was then adhered behind the window frame, being careful to allow the arms of the cross to extend over the frame. An additional bottom section of the window was cut with the woodgrain horizontal and the Paper Smooches "Easter Blessings" sentiment was embossed with Princess Gold embossing powder. This powder has become my favorite when I am using gold - it is a true subtle gold, unlike others I've used that are very metallic or brassy in appearance. The extra ledge was adhered with dimensional adhesive. The assembled cross and window was then added to the card front with more dimensional adhesive over the embossed layer to provide dimension for the sun's rays.</div>
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These photos show the stained glass effect created when the sun shines through the transparency, as well as the shimmer created by the perfect pearls along with the metallic cardstock.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TgkXrPvWloE/VSBgRMFTn3I/AAAAAAAABpk/Agy-Pl_cupk/s1600/IMG_5401%2Bpicmonkeycc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TgkXrPvWloE/VSBgRMFTn3I/AAAAAAAABpk/Agy-Pl_cupk/s1600/IMG_5401%2Bpicmonkeycc.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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The next card is very much like the other two in my <a href="http://abbeys-attic.blogspot.com/2015/03/easter-joy.html" target="_blank">previous post.</a> I had stamped and embossed three panels with the Impression Obsession stamp, "Running" just in case I needed them. I keep wanting to call this stamp, "Dancing" because that's how I think of the girl. I liked the resulting inked panels with the Simon Says Stamp inks - Audrey Blue, Sea Glass, and Mint, so I decided to turn each of them into a card. The other two were inked on Neenah Solar White cardstock; this one was done on Archivers Watercolor paper. The inks rubbed on a bit differently; I like the dimension the watercolor paper provided as well as the antique, distressed result of the gold embossing. </div>
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The sentiment is the same as the one above. I used the Memory Box "Kensington Border" for the butterflies in the previous two designs. This time I cut the entire border from Simon Says Stamp heavy vellum. I left an extra wide left margin and scored it before adhering the margin behind the inked panel, bending it to the front of the card. A couple of tiny pieces of glue dots were slipped in to the border to keep it in place. The gold thread was wound along the edge of the panel to provide the illusion of the vertical members of a cross, proclaiming the Easter message of dancing in the glory of the risen Christ.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GxhHESdH8Iw/VSBgrflvVMI/AAAAAAAABp8/BF0CUPg0qN4/s1600/IMG_5486faststone%2Bcc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GxhHESdH8Iw/VSBgrflvVMI/AAAAAAAABp8/BF0CUPg0qN4/s1600/IMG_5486faststone%2Bcc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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I pray Easter is a beautiful day for each of you, spent in whatever way most meaningful to you.</div>
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May your spirit dance!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Materials Used:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cross Card:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Paper: Neenah Solar White; The Paper Company - Metallic Cover "Sea Glass"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> SSS White Woodgrain</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Paper Smooches "Easter Blessings"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dies: Poppystamps "Grand Gothic Window"; Taylored Expressions "At the Cross 3"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Versamark Ink; Princess Gold Embossing Powder; Taylored Expressions "Walking on Sunshine"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Embossing Folder; Acetate; Sharpies; Perfect Pearls; SSS Moonshine Sequin</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Girl Dancing Card:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Paper: Neenah Solar White (card base); Archivers Watercolor Paper; SSS Vellum</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Impression Obsession "Running"; Paper Smooches "Easter Blessings"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dies: Memory Box "Kensington Border"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Ink - SSS Audrey Blue, Sea Glass, Mint; Versamark: Princess Gold Embossing Powder; </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> DMC Soft Gold Thread</span></div>
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Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-33382089091550078972015-03-31T18:35:00.000-05:002015-04-04T18:30:04.571-05:00Easter Joy<div class="separator" id="ssnoshadow" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had planned to be back long before now with some blog posts, but the computer had other ideas. When I sat down a few weeks ago, prepared to write a post, the monitor was a simple "blue" in color. I tried turning the computer off and back on again, but it wouldn't even shut off. Techno-challenged I am, but even I knew this was not a good sign. Dh happened to be traveling on business at the time so we discussed it over the phone. I performed some tests under his direction and he determined it was indeed the monitor vs. a video card or a loose connection. He quickly did some research and decided on the monitor he liked and called so I could measure the computer stand opening to make sure it would fit. In the time it took for me to measure, the monitor was sold out. So, another bit of time waiting for more to become available, then placing the order and waiting for it to arrive. And then of course, waiting for dh to come home to install it; he was quite certain it wasn't something I could, should, or would want to do, although I did insist that surely I could plug in a monitor. Well, then again, if history is right, maybe not...</div>
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So, although everything has been running for the last week or so, Spring has arrived and I've been working outside, playing catch up on yard work after two years of abandonment for other priorities, and too tired to write blog posts late at night. I am hoping to visit your blog posts in the very near future. My last post indicated I would be back with the rest of the 2014 Christmas projects, but now I'm going to move on to Easter and hopefully share those in a more timely manner. Then I'll see about the rest of the Christmas posts - seems kind of silly now, but I'd still like to share them. My friend tells me it's my blog and I can do whatever makes me happy - no obligations, no rules. Well, she's also been known to run with scissors, so I may just need to follow her advice!</div>
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Before we talk about today's cards, I have these to share with you.</div>
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I ran to the market last Friday after a trip to Costco and a short visit with my friend to solve her computer problem - there are some computer things I can handle! I only needed celery for the weekend Pasta Fagioli Soup and garlic bread. Ok, the garlic bread was a want. I wandered through the floral department as I always do, taking in the seasonal displays, the colors, the scents. The happy part of the market trip that makes it all worthwhile. And then these caught my eye and found their way into my basket. Oh my goodness, how this color combo sings to my spirit! Perhaps it is because I am longing for spring more than I realize, or maybe I'm hoping to find plants these exact colors to fill the front porch planter when the temperatures warm just a little more. The first spring trip to the nursery is coming soon, I can just feel it! I will admit, I never, or hardly ever, buy cut flowers for myself. But this particular day I rationalized I was only purchasing two things, hadn't bought much at the store lately, and all kinds of other affirming statements on my behalf. I wandered around the store still questioning if I really needed them. Why do we do that? I wouldn't have thought twice about giving them to a friend. I am oh so happy they came home with me. They greet me each morning as I begin opening the house for a new day, and they are the last thing I see at night as I turn on the living room table lamp before bed.</div>
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I've been creating Easter cards the last week or so. This one features the Impression Obsession stamp, "Running," which was embossed in Princess Gold. I purchased it with this design in mind, dancing in the glory of the risen Christ, but I can also envision many other designs for this stamp. The background was inked with Simon Says "Mint", "Audrey Blue", and "Sea Glass" inks. The embossed sentiment is from Paper Smooches, "Easter Blessings." The butterfly is a portion of the "Kensington Border" Memory Box die. A second butterfly was cut from vellum to add a sense of movement and accented with a bit of DMC Soft Gold thread. The Simon Says Stamp "Frame" was cut from Sea Glass metallic cardstock and adhered over the panel along with the cut away portion to add more weight to the frame.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3rWIPiinBrI/VSBC_vyueWI/AAAAAAAABoo/8KmZBvB9ORM/s1600/aviary%2Ba%2Bwatermark%2Bfaststone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3rWIPiinBrI/VSBC_vyueWI/AAAAAAAABoo/8KmZBvB9ORM/s1600/aviary%2Ba%2Bwatermark%2Bfaststone.jpg" height="640" width="488" /></a></div>
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Since I haven't inked many of these backgrounds, I prepared three panels with the embossed girl, just in case I needed extras. I decided to make another card using the same design, but with a little different twist of the gold thread and the Stitched Rectangles frame from Lil Inker Designs.</div>
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I am entering the first design in the <a href="https://www.flickr.com/groups/2480338@N20/discuss/72157651451217981/" target="_blank">Simon Says Stamp Flickr Group Challenge</a> for "Springtime/Easter," the <a href="http://www.simonsaysstampblog.com/wednesdaychallenge/simon-says-anything-goes-14/" target="_blank">Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge</a> for "Anything Goes," and the <a href="http://www.simonsaysstampblog.com/blog/work-it-wednesday-february-2015/" target="_blank">Simon Says Stamp Work It Wednesday Challenge</a> for stamping.</div>
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Thanks for visiting the attic today. Your visits are always so appreciated.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Paper: Neenah Solar White; SSS Vellum; The Paper Co. Metallic Cover "Sea Glass"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: SSS Mint, Audrey Blue, Sea Glass; Versamark</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Impression Obsession "Running"; Paper Smooches "Easter Blessings"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dies: Memory Box "Kensington Border"; Lil Inker Designs Stitched Rectangles</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Princess Gold Embossing Powder; DMC Soft Gold Thread</span></div>
Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-61302269847096332862015-03-02T21:44:00.001-06:002015-03-02T21:44:43.367-06:00Puppy Love!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nmhin7jrtA4/VPUjGA2wEUI/AAAAAAAABlk/nu6dLOb56kk/s1600/DSC07704cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nmhin7jrtA4/VPUjGA2wEUI/AAAAAAAABlk/nu6dLOb56kk/s1600/DSC07704cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="481" /></a></div>
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<i>"An animal's eyes have the power to speak a great language." - Martin Buber</i></div>
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This new stamp set from My Favorite Things, "You Have My Heart" features an image depicting one of my favorite animal quotes. The way the puppy is looking at "his" girl just melts my heart. Looking into a dog's eyes, there is no question of their love and devotion. Their eyes tell an entire story, don't they?</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lt76c1b_W34/VPUjINo9Z8I/AAAAAAAABmE/t3YrnYVehso/s1600/DSC07712cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lt76c1b_W34/VPUjINo9Z8I/AAAAAAAABmE/t3YrnYVehso/s1600/DSC07712cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="482" /></a></div>
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Friends are like this, too; our hearts speak and often times words are not needed. This image was ideal for a friend's Valentine. The girl, her puppy, and the grass were colored with distress markers and then some paper piecing was added for her dress. I rounded the top edge of the dress and inserted it under her hair so bits of the dress would show underneath. I added a sash and bow cut from Poppy Stamps, "Abundant Gifts" just because every gingham check dress needs a big white bow! The grass is a separate water colored piece, layered over the original stamped image.</div>
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Once again, the Simon Says Stamp "Frame" and "Falling Hearts" dies were used on this card. I created the hill with the Lawn Fawn Stitched Hillside Borders and paper from Crate Paper collection, "Kiss Kiss." The cloud was cut from washi tape covered chipboard. Like the previous Valentines, there is lots of sparkly goodness going on here; each of the hearts in the background was coated with Wink of Stella along with the suspended heart from the cloud.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-07n24UkyQqs/VPUjGCKRSMI/AAAAAAAABlg/EOS70Y8XuoM/s1600/DSC07690cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-07n24UkyQqs/VPUjGCKRSMI/AAAAAAAABlg/EOS70Y8XuoM/s1600/DSC07690cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="562" /></a></div>
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I separated the sentiment and included the last section on the inside as a surprise. The dangling heart was added along with a water colored heart as an accent.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jcgd61B-L44/VPUjGG28fkI/AAAAAAAABlc/odVAYWzuFlU/s1600/DSC07697cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jcgd61B-L44/VPUjGG28fkI/AAAAAAAABlc/odVAYWzuFlU/s1600/DSC07697cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="482" /></a></div>
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This wraps up the Valentines for this year. Next I'll be traveling back to December to finish posting the rest of the 2014 Christmas projects. Running late with posting them, I know, but at least we're not having Christmas in July! Hope to see you then!<br />
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Blessings,<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Materials:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Neenah Solar White; PaperTrey Ink Aqua Mist; Archivers Watercolor Paper</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Patterned Paper: Crate Paper "Kiss Kiss"; Memory Box Check paper</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: My Favorite Things "You Have My Heart"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dies: Memory Box "Heart Delights"; Poppystamps: Abundant Gifts; </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Simon Says Stamp "Frames", "Falling Hearts"; PaperTrey Ink "Clouds 1&2";</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Lawn Fawn "Stitched Hillside Borders"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Versafine Onyx Black Ink; Marvy LePlume Black Pen; Gelly Roll White Pen; </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Wink of Stella; Zing Clear Embossing Powder; Distress Markers; Dritz Metallic Thread</span></div>
Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-78204234428426347132015-02-26T15:09:00.002-06:002015-02-26T15:09:20.919-06:00All Dressed in Pink<div class="separator" id="ssnoshadow" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The weeks leading up to Valentine's Day were blustery as they usually are, interspersed with a few bright, warm days of sunshine. Miss Mimi, a gift from a special friend, brightened up my stamping corner in her festive pink dress, decked out for the holiday with lots of sparkle and delivering love-filled balloons to another dear friend. There are three Mimi's in the set, "Mimi's Love" along with an adorable deer. I stamped and embossed all of them, and then had a difficult time deciding which one to create with first. Mimi was watercolored using Distress Markers; I am really enjoying this medium for coloring and watching the images come to life.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vTFBia1hBvw/VO6pHDvvlVI/AAAAAAAABj4/sIKK3KafOos/s1600/DSC07740cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vTFBia1hBvw/VO6pHDvvlVI/AAAAAAAABj4/sIKK3KafOos/s1600/DSC07740cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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There is quite a bit of sparkle on this card, just what is needed for a Valentine wish! Unfortunately, it doesn't show up well in the photos. The hearts in the die cut background are each coated with Wink of Stella, as are the hearts in Mimi's headband, the white bow, and the ruffles on her dress; her sweet pink shoes received two coats of the glitter pen and are especially sparkly. I inserted a transparency behind the open heart balloon to resemble a mylar balloon.<br />
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The sentiment was included in the stamp set from My Favorite Things, "You Have My Heart." I divided it by stamping part of it on the front and the rest as a surprise on the inside. Friends really are the best things for our hearts! The dangling heart was also included in this set and I added a die cut heart from a piece of watercolor paper I painted for a previous card. I don't usually add embellishments to the inside of my cards, rather letting the sentiment stand alone. I tried adding the outer border from the frame on the card front and found I liked it as a decorative element on the inside.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PnsVuTllI7s/VO6lEQD0xYI/AAAAAAAABi8/6Y8-38rqdN8/s1600/DSC07737cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PnsVuTllI7s/VO6lEQD0xYI/AAAAAAAABi8/6Y8-38rqdN8/s1600/DSC07737cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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Another photo session and my helper cat assistance continues... I keep wondering why I don't have enough light on my photos...<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7D9giuIsdE8/VO6lDrCUT_I/AAAAAAAABiw/RJwiL2bIK2o/s1600/DSC07718cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7D9giuIsdE8/VO6lDrCUT_I/AAAAAAAABiw/RJwiL2bIK2o/s1600/DSC07718cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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It's a brilliant sunshiny day here, although quite cold. We're sending a little sunshine warmth and hugs your way. You really are so good... for my heart!</div>
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Blessings,</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Neenah Solar White; Archivers Watercolor Paper; My Favorite Things: Pink Lemonade</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Pink Shimmer Paper</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Penny Black: "Mimi's Love"; My Favorite Things: "You Have My Heart"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dies: Poppystamps: Heart Balloons; Simon Says Stamp: Falling Hearts; Frames; Memory Box: Heart Delights</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Versafine Onyx Black</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Distress Markers; Copics; Wink of Stella; White Gelly Roll Pen; Zing Clear Embossing Powder;</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Dritz Silver Thread; Ribbon</span></div>
Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-59982476792181291832015-02-22T13:27:00.001-06:002015-02-22T13:27:13.465-06:00Believe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When I saw the challenge at <a href="http://merrymondaychristmaschallenge.blogspot.com/2015/02/merry-monday-146-santa.html" target="_blank">Merry Monday</a> this week to use a Santa , I instantly thought of the vintage Santa stamp I have had for many years that has never been inked. Loved it when I purchased it, love it still, his sweet face makes me happy! I believe I found it at Hobby Lobby or Michaels when I first started <strike>collecting</strike> acquiring a variety of stamps for different occasions. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dBaBol03mx0/VOoqokGqRmI/AAAAAAAABig/F3l_T0QUIC4/s1600/DSC07811cropcc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dBaBol03mx0/VOoqokGqRmI/AAAAAAAABig/F3l_T0QUIC4/s1600/DSC07811cropcc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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I began by stamping the Santa with Gathered Twigs Distress Ink on Neenah Solar White cardstock and die cutting it into an oval. The oval was then distressed with Antique Linen with more of the Gathered Twigs around the edges. I colored the glasses frames with Atyou Spica "Sand" and added a bit of Spun Sugar Distress Ink for Santa's rosy cheeks, followed by Stardust Stickles for his beard and eyebrows. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3CMJ44NBJgY/VOoqnUtaIsI/AAAAAAAABiI/UKU6tViQ1OA/s1600/DSC07797cropcc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3CMJ44NBJgY/VOoqnUtaIsI/AAAAAAAABiI/UKU6tViQ1OA/s1600/DSC07797cropcc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
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And then came the difficult task of selecting papers from the stash of 6 x 6 paper pads. After many combinations, I decided on a vintage combo to complement the Santa. I assembled the layout, and then added the Taylored Expressions Dotted Lattice Embossing Folder to resemble quilting on the patchwork of papers. I have attempted to add ribbon and/or lace to the last few cards I've made, but without success. Finally, this card allowed the use of both and I was quite a happy cardmaker! I do seem to <i>think</i> every card <i>needs</i> a bit of ribbon to make it complete, but then I find that isn't always true.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eaqAj3_Qolk/VOoqnnp7r_I/AAAAAAAABiQ/OMSIXS6KA4I/s1600/DSC07804cropcc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eaqAj3_Qolk/VOoqnnp7r_I/AAAAAAAABiQ/OMSIXS6KA4I/s1600/DSC07804cropcc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Penny Black "Believe" sentiment was die cut twice from Kraft cardstock and once from gold, then glued together to add more dimension to the design. A few gemstones were added along with a couple of Impression Obsession snowflakes coated with two layers of Clear Rock Candy Distress Stickles and a second completed card was added to the Attic's 2015 Christmas basket. </div>
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Blessings,</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Neenah Solar White; Kraft; Recollections Gold</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Patterned Paper: My Mind's Eye Lost & Found Christmas; Kaisercraft - Turtle Dove</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Rubber Stampede "Santa Collage"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dies: Penny Black: "Exultations"; Impression Obsession: "Small Snowflake Set"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Spellbinders: "Classic Ovals Large"; "Classic Ovals Small"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Distress Inks: Antique Linen; Gathered Twigs; Spun Sugar</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Stickles: "Stardust"; "Clear Rock Candy"; Hero Arts Lace; Papertrey Ink Scarlet Jewel</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Ribbon; Recollections Clear Gemstones</span></div>
Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-47596932152194019002015-02-16T23:00:00.003-06:002015-02-16T23:35:52.721-06:00Kitty Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I hope each of you had a wonderful Valentine's Day filled with love and all that makes your heart complete. Dh and I stayed in most of the day tending to some tasks each of us wanted to complete and then ventured out into the cold for a nice dinner in the late afternoon. Once we arrived back at our car, it didn't take long for me to decide I just wanted to head home where it was warm since the north winds were bringing a promised snowstorm Sunday evening. We received about three inches of snow last night and the cold continued today. It was a good day to bake stuffed peppers, read some blog posts, and write one of my own.</div>
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This card was made using Penny Black's, "Furry Affection" stamp set and "Heartfelt" dies. I finally decided to try the Distress Markers I've had for quite a while for a beginning attempt at water coloring since that is such a trend right now. I also colored a scrap of water color paper for the die cuts. It was quite relaxing coloring with them and I can imagine stamping several images, spending an afternoon simply coloring. Wouldn't it be great to have images ready for a card and then simply select papers, layout, and embellishments? Might be fun to find out! </div>
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Once I colored the kitty and waited for it to dry, I cut it out and adhered it with dimensional adhesive so it would stand out from the background which was die cut with Simon Says, "Falling Hearts" die. The "Frames" die was used for the outer edge. Each of the background hearts was painted with Wink of Stella as was the "love" sentiment, the heart the kitty is coloring, and the scattered hearts as well. I'm so glad the "WOS" came into my life; no more glitter issues here!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zeqY3SqKxEQ/VOKysgWSl4I/AAAAAAAABgc/QXL3KG4k3t8/s1600/DSC07774cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zeqY3SqKxEQ/VOKysgWSl4I/AAAAAAAABgc/QXL3KG4k3t8/s1600/DSC07774cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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The inside was framed with another "Frames" die cut and the sentiment was added from the "Furry Affection" stamp set. I love this simple sentiment. Sometimes the simplest words are the most profound amongst friends, one of the blessings of knowing each other so well! </div>
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And here's Miss Sleepy Helper Cat, scrunched into her tiny space outside the photo tent. She was reminding me her kitty bed was there first and I was invading her space! Sweet girl...<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q2z-ZBj8cHU/VOKzIMp9vEI/AAAAAAAABg4/d-tcm_9M3bI/s1600/DSC07756cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q2z-ZBj8cHU/VOKzIMp9vEI/AAAAAAAABg4/d-tcm_9M3bI/s1600/DSC07756cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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I am entering this card in the Simon Says Stamp <a href="http://www.simonsaysstampblog.com/wednesdaychallenge/simon-says-all-creatures-great-and-small/" target="_blank">"All Creatures Great and Small"</a> challenge along with the SSS Flickr Challenge #12, <a href="https://www.flickr.com/groups/simonsaysstamp/discuss/72157650664592021/" target="_blank">"So Sparkly. "</a></div>
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Blessings,</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Materials:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Neenah Solar White; Archivers Watercolor Paper; PTI Aqua Mist</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Penny Black "Furry Affection"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dies: Memory Box: Heart Delights; Simon Says Stamp: Frames; Falling Hearts</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Penny Black: Heartfelt</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Wink of Stella Clear; Distress Markers; White Gelly Roll Pen; Marvy LePlume Black Pen;</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Versafine Onyx Black Ink; Zing Clear Embossing Powder</span></div>
Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-15764296677902775692015-02-06T17:20:00.002-06:002015-02-06T23:21:15.678-06:00Newton's in Love!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k6XaYgac4wY/VNVH814nDsI/AAAAAAAABfU/necvexJUIO8/s1600/DSC07672cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k6XaYgac4wY/VNVH814nDsI/AAAAAAAABfU/necvexJUIO8/s1600/DSC07672cc%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="498" /></a></div>
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Newton's adventure abroad brought him the true love he was hoping to find. She is everything he ever dreamed love would be. Naughty Newton, however, knows he shouldn't leave graffiti on the Parisian walls, but his heart was singing with love and he just had to let it out! And look at her, so sweet, blushing beautifully at her handsome beau's romantic gesture. She knows he is the one for her! Oh yes, she brought him balloons, not just one, but three to proclaim her affection!</div>
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Just a few notes about the design. The background was dry embossed with a brick embossing folder and I pounced versamark ink lightly over the raised texture. It was then wet embossed with Ranger "Brick" embossing powder. It leaves a very rough, flat texture, and feels like real brick. The powder includes bits of gold and rose colors along with black and reds. The Penny Black heart from the set, "So Very Much" was then embossed with white embossing powder over the brick wall. A gel pen was used to go over some of the words.</div>
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Newton and his love (from Newton Dreams of Paris) were stamped and embossed on watercolor paper and colored with distress markers. Wink of Stella was added to her sweater, just because every Valentine's sweater needs some sparkle! The "love" sentiment was die cut four times and adhered together on pink shimmer paper and the clear balloon is backed with transparency to allow the "love" to shine.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VAz0cCv0KYQ/VNWfleDSuSI/AAAAAAAABf0/AgUxt-w2tTE/s1600/DSC07676cc1%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VAz0cCv0KYQ/VNWfleDSuSI/AAAAAAAABf0/AgUxt-w2tTE/s1600/DSC07676cc1%2Bpicmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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I am submitting this to the challenge at Newton's Nook <a href="http://www.newtonsnookblog.com/2015/01/inky-paws-challenge-17-use-heart-shape.html" target="_blank">#17 Inky Paws Challenge</a>, "Use A Heart Shape." </div>
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<img alt="Inky Paws Challenge #17 - Use a Heart Shape | Newton's Nook Designs" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zl-3DUeJJkE/VLXkiCaSGYI/AAAAAAAAF1k/1knllcd79U4/s1600/NNDIPC_17_Heart.png" width="130" /></div>
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May your days always be filled with love,</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Materials Used: </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Neenah Solar White; Pink Shimmer; Bazzill; Watercolor Paper</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Patterned Paper: My Minds Eye, "Lost & Found Two - Blush"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Newton's Nook: "Newton Dreams of Paris"; Penny Black: "So Very Much"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dies: Penny Black "Heartfelt"; </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Poppystamps: "Heart Balloons"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Tim Holtz Brick Embossing Folder; Ranger Brick Embossing Powder: Hero Arts White and Clear </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Embossing Powders; Versafine Black Ink; Versamark, DMC Light Gold Thread; </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Distress Markers; </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Gelly Roll White Pen, Transparency (for balloon) </span></div>
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"Of course you may have your day on the blog."<br />
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I suppose since the blog is named after Abbey, she can be featured every now and then. I just wish her request had been a bit more subtle, with a lot less cat hair left behind. Super sticky lint rollers to the rescue! This is what I found after last week's photo session when I returned to clean up the aftermath from cardmaking and composing the blog post. I assume she was waiting patiently for her own photo session and wasn't any too happy about that card being in her way. After a few photos, and her exploring and playing in the tent (notice the felt liner partially disconnected in the tent), she did manage to turn the card around all on her own.<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">Such a sweet girl, our helper cat wants to be involved in everything we do.</span><br />
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Unfortunately, she tires easily from a photo session and can quickly go from "happy Abbey" to "crabby Abbey" in a flash!</div>
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Sunday was the Kitten Bowl and we looked forward to it just as much as last year. Abbey wasn't very interested though; she only watched it for a little while. Last year she watched the entire game! I had to wonder if perhaps she was more interested in the game time munchies than in the game itself. She's probably been observing me too closely!</div>
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I think I saw a bit of "kitty love" in her eyes when Joe Montuna appeared on screen! He was a pretty handsome kitty!<br />
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Actually, even though it was a snowy afternoon, one usually good for kitty naps, Abbey was more interested in playing with her brand new box from Costco. Around here, Costco boxes are the best toys around - forget all the cute sparklies in the toy box! A simple new box can entertain her for days!</div>
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We spent some time playing with her Christmas sparkle wand and she had great fun chasing it through the box and stalking it from behind. This Santa Cat decided it was a must have new toy since it was a part of the "Frozen" collection at the pet store. The movie itself is a "must see," filled with beautiful music and graphic effects. Highly recommend it! I don't usually purchase movies, but it is definitely one I am considering. I see it becoming one of the acclaimed Disney treasures for all time, the message so empowering and timeless.<br />
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Yesterday was another day of taking photos, and yes, I made the mistake of leaving the photo tent up once again. I've only recently started using it and I have found it does make a difference when I take the time to set it up. A good sunny day also helps! And so, we had another bit of a photo session and more sticky roller sheets to the rescue!</div>
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Just like everyone else, sticking her tongue out for the camera!</div>
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"Ah, no Abbey. Don't start getting too sleepy or too comfy. This is <i>not </i>your new kitty bed!" Although, her bed usually sits atop this cabinet, so I can understand why she might think the tent is hers. Poor kitty, every time I need to take photos, she is displaced.</div>
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It is a typical snowy, windy February Wednesday afternoon here in the Midwest as I finish this blog post. We've only had four snows this winter so far, so it has been a very enjoyable day especially since I didn't need to be out and about. Saturday it's supposed to be 70, and a week ago today it was 76! I fed the birds earlier and here are a couple of photos to share. </div>
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Abbey and Spirit have spent the day tucked in warm and safe under their blankets; Abbey in front of her heat vent, and Spirit on the cat tower where she can nap and watch bird TV to her heart's content whenever she awakens.<br />
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Abbey has enjoyed her day on the blog. She is already looking forward to helping with a new post and a card soon. </div>
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May your journeys be safe and your spirits be warm.</div>
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Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-61782486102671306832015-01-18T13:54:00.002-06:002015-01-18T15:41:17.479-06:00Joy!<div class="separator" id="ssnoshadow" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A package arrived on Friday containing a stamp set from my friend. I had mentioned a stamp I was going to purchase that I had convinced myself at Christmas I shouldn't at the time. She said she had it, had loved it enough, and was passing it along to me. I was so excited to receive it and couldn't wait to play!</div>
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I am entering my card in the challenge at <a href="http://merrymondaychristmaschallenge.blogspot.com/2015/01/merry-monday-141-christmas-critters.html" target="_blank">Merry Monday</a> this week for critters with barely any time to spare! <span style="text-align: center;">Love, love the bunny in the photo! This stamp set by Penny Black, "Winter Play," was made for the challenge</span>!</div>
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This was such a fun image to use. It reminds me of my girls, Spirit and Abbey. Spirit, the princess, being pulled on her sled by Abbey, our own little energizer bunny!</div>
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The middle photo in the "Clean Slate" challenge on <a href="http://virginiasviewchallenge.blogspot.com/2015/01/virginias-view-challenge-11-clean-slate.html" target="_blank">Virginia's View Challenge Blog</a> inspired me to use black and white with just a few colors along with white space. Of course, the kitties always catch my eye, too. </div>
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Additionally, the Penny Black sentiment from the set, "Holly Day Critters" is one I've had since 2012 and haven't used. I've also had the embossing folder, "Snowflakes and Scroll" for a while, so I'm linking this up to the challenge at <a href="http://casology.blogspot.com/2015/01/week-129-nbus.html" target="_blank">CASology</a> for NBUS (Never Before Used Schtuff). </div>
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Thanks for visiting our Attic. Abbey and I treasure your visits!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Materials Used: </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Neenah Solar White</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Penny Black "Winter Play", "Holly Day Critters"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black; Versafine Black</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Darice Embossing Folder, "Snowflakes and Scroll"; SSS Assorted Moonshine Sequins; </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Prismacolor Pencils; Stardust Stickles; Gelly Roll White and Stardust pens</span></div>
Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-54040872830496971182015-01-14T21:37:00.000-06:002015-01-14T21:37:31.627-06:00Let Heaven and Nature Sing!<div class="separator" id="ssnoshadow" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I hope each of you had the Christmas you were dreaming of this year and that it was indeed, "merry and bright." We enjoyed a quiet day spent with friends, as we usually do. Lots and lots of good food, fun chatting, and a most anticipated relaxing day. Our decorations are still up here in the Attic, and I suppose they should come down by the weekend. At least that's the plan. But if not, we'll just enjoy them a bit longer. </div>
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Santa is still standing in his usual place next to the tree</div>
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and the candles on the mantel continue to burn most every night.</div>
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The tree is still lit and the ornaments continue to bring smiles while sitting nightly on the floor with the girls, looking up, remembering bits and pieces about each delightful ornament. The cheerful little snowman brings an instant smile and was a new addition this year when we ventured to the garden center for our poinsettia. Charlie Brown and Snoopy, a gift from a dear friend a few years ago, and of course, Pooh and Eeyore who are always on our tree.</div>
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I so enjoy this time of year when I can be inside and the soft glow from candles or Christmas lights warm the evening's chill. I have been longing for some quiet time since before Thanksgiving, without responsibilities or obligations, days to be still and to do some photo projects. "Jammie days," I call them. Even the last couple of weeks have been filled with appointments and errands that needed tending. I have double checked the calendar and the rest of January looks to be completely clear, so far. I am hoping to keep it that way. There's a new crochet project I'm anxious to start with some brand new Christmas present yarn (I will share once it is on its way) as well as Jan Karon's book, "Someplace Safe with Somebody Good" that I've been reading. I've also been organizing my dies and embossing folders and then will begin the task of going through bags and boxes in the Attic. Good projects for cold wintry days, indeed.</div>
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It has been a long time since I've had a card to share. Lots of ideas, but very little time for creating. I had the idea for this card around the beginning of December, and I completed it just in time for a friend who lives a long distance away. I was happy she received it a couple of days before Christmas. I embossed Hero Arts, "Tiny Ink Spots " in white on a Papertrey Ink Soft Stone card base. This cardstock has become a new favorite this year, such a soft gray color, wonderful for snow scenes or as an accent with silver. I embossed the same stamp in Hero Arts, "Sparkle" embossing powder on the white card base. I then stamped the "Silhouette Fern" stamp three times with Versamark and embossed with the "Sparkle" embossing powder. I was surprised that the white snowflakes showed through the fern's leaves giving them such an icy appearance, a happy surprise indeed. I thought "sparkle" would be similar to glitter and was a bit disappointed at first. I like that it is more subdued, a bit holographic, and that it changes color as it is tilted in the light. We had many dark and cloudy days in a row before Christmas making photos difficult. The white background, the branch and the bird are indeed quite sparkly. </div>
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The Poppystamps, "Peaceful Bird" and Memory Box, "Woodland Branch" were cut from DCWV glitter paper. I cut three of the birds from cardstock and glued the glitter one on top for added dimension. Finally, some Simon Says Stamp irridescent sequins add a bit more icy sparkle to this Christmas wish. When I finished the card, I decided to make a second one since the supplies were still on the desk. I didn't realize it at the time, but after looking at it for a few days, it became dh's Christmas card this year.</div>
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The inside was finished with a Penny Black stamp from the set, "Season's Wishes." I can always count on my Penny Black stamps to find just the sentiment I desire in the beautiful fonts they use.</div>
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I am hoping to be back later this week with another Christmas card to share. Until then, may peace and blessings be yours as we begin a brand new year filled with hope and possibility.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Materials Used:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Hero Arts S5637 (Tiny Ink Spots); K5314 (Silhouette Fern); Penny Black "Season's Wishes"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dies: Memory Box Woodland Branch; Poppystamps Peaceful Bird</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Neenah Solar White; PTI Soft Stone; Shimmer - Galvan; DCWV Glitter Silver, Holiday Glitzy Glitter</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Versamark Ink; Hero Arts White Embossing Powder, Sparkle Embossing Powder; SSS Sequins</span></div>
Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-1965571578604852272014-12-20T14:39:00.000-06:002014-12-20T14:39:08.296-06:00This Day<h4 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #76a5af;">Written November 12 - December 17, 2014</span></span></h4>
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It is the day I hoped away, wished away, prayed away. </div>
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The one I didn't want to ever come.</div>
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It came anyway. </div>
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Today.</div>
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It always comes, doesn't it?</div>
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You know the one.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">September 29, 2012</td></tr>
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Uninvited, it insinuated itself into my somewhat calm, somewhat orderly, predictable day-to-day, creating its heartbreak and leaving a trail of tears in its path. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">January 25, 2008</td></tr>
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But it hasn't taken long, only a few hours really, to understand what the heart already knows. It is necessary, this day. In it, as in all days, lies a gift whenever we are open to receive it. The gift is peace granting freedom from weakness, confusion, a body no longer capable of a quality life. It isn't easy for us, the ones left behind, for we continue to love, to cry, to wish for even one more day.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">November 2, 2013</td></tr>
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My arms are empty now, no longer cradling the blackest cat in all the land. Carrying her. Holding her. Nurturing her. Loving her. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2BNeLHnyfys/VH_JK0BSfaI/AAAAAAAABUc/PJ66RzfuDHQ/s1600/IMG_4614cc%2B111104%2Bwatermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2BNeLHnyfys/VH_JK0BSfaI/AAAAAAAABUc/PJ66RzfuDHQ/s1600/IMG_4614cc%2B111104%2Bwatermark.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">November 11, 2004</td></tr>
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And yet, my heart is full to bursting with the love and joy, loyalty and devotion she graced upon me as we companioned together this journey for one-third of my life. I continue to be in awe each time I recall the strength of her spirit, the determination within her to triumph.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HRmDt9cCKlI/VJW-A0nCDuI/AAAAAAAABXM/eCsNgLJRT5Q/s1600/First%2BChristmas%2B1995.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HRmDt9cCKlI/VJW-A0nCDuI/AAAAAAAABXM/eCsNgLJRT5Q/s1600/First%2BChristmas%2B1995.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Christmas - 1995</td></tr>
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"To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose."</div>
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"In the cold and snow of winter, there's a spring that waits to be. </div>
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Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see." </div>
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"For God will raise you up on eagle's wings, bear you on the breath of dawn. </div>
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Make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of God's hand." </div>
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"I am with you always." </div>
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Words. </div>
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Words of assurance, comfort. These known words carry us to the home safe within us, granting us some semblance of peace and security when all about is muddled and confused, when there is little offer of consolation. They are the words we trust in for their comfort is familiar, their message assuring, words we have heard and turned to many times before.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cJlpqvhP-Uc/VIfTSgXJEYI/AAAAAAAABVA/fdol-hgNaBE/s1600/Sept%2B1995%2Bwatermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cJlpqvhP-Uc/VIfTSgXJEYI/AAAAAAAABVA/fdol-hgNaBE/s1600/Sept%2B1995%2Bwatermark.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Photo - September, 1995</td></tr>
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Nineteen years, six and one-half months. </div>
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Seven thousand one-hundred thirty-one days, approximately. </div>
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First cat. </div>
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A spring day in early May, 1995. July, 1995. September 5, 2012. October 25, 2013.</div>
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November 12, 2014. </div>
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Numbers. Dates. </div>
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Uncharted, yet innumerable additional remarkable, ordinary every days, holidays, special days, moments in time. Days of quantity, days of quality. Days together. Countless days and still not enough days. One more day.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OfCnTqx3XWo/VJObCQ1b_gI/AAAAAAAABW0/tFUWn1MPBsQ/s1600/IMG_3214cch%2Bwatermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OfCnTqx3XWo/VJObCQ1b_gI/AAAAAAAABW0/tFUWn1MPBsQ/s1600/IMG_3214cch%2Bwatermark.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">December 25, 2003</td></tr>
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TC. TC Cat. Tree Climber. Tree Cat. </div>
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T. Teedle. Teedle-E. Teedly-C. </div>
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Black Cat. Blackest cat in all the land. Best black cat around. TC Black Cat. Baby Black Cat. </div>
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Sweet Pea. Buttercup. Snickers. Snicker-nickers. </div>
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Sweet cat. My sweet girl. My girl. Girlfriend. </div>
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Names. </div>
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Names of endearment. Names for love.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">December 4, 2005</td></tr>
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I have prepared for this day for over two years and yet I suppose one is never really prepared. In the days leading up to this single day, I feared I saw it coming. Still, I had seen it before, and TC rallied. Dr. S and I had another conversation at TC's exam in October, initiated by me, in an effort to prepare. We spoke of quality once again; from the onset of this journey, it was important that her life be filled with quality.This journey was to be about her, giving her the days she was meant to have. Reluctantly, I made the appointment for her B12 injection on November 12th, although I realized it probably wouldn't be necessary. TC had become very weak, stumbling, sleeping soundly, but continuing to eat well. I knew the signs. Our time together was spent cuddling her, gently handling her, and allowing her to sleep as often as she desired. The days were cold; we couldn't be outside, but we looked out the windows together and she napped a bit in the sunshine. I was reasonably certain, but not absolutely, my return home would be alone this time. We talked, she and I, and I was prepared. I thought. There is a difference in anticipating an event and absorbing the reality of the finality. The question from D, our technician, "How is TC doing?" was more than I could answer; I could only shake my head. Dr. S carefully examined TC, gently handling her as he always did, stroking her, turning away, updating the chart. I still hear his whisper, "it's time." And time stopped suspended in that moment. I am certain my breath stopped as well. I couldn't look up. I could only stroke the blackest cat in all the land as she laid under her blanket, curled against me. I asked some questions, barely audible. I always have questions. I requested, and was granted, time together, the two of us. An hour later I cradled TC's head in my left hand, stroking her chest, her side with my right. I kissed the top of her head, longing to imprint her sweet scent into my memory. Hesitantly, I began our often times daily exchange, asking her one more time, "TC Black Cat, do you have any idea how much you are loved?" I waited, gathering myself. And one more time, as I have done countless times before, I answered for her, "More than you will ever, ever know. More than you will ever know, baby black cat." </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">February 14, 2007</td></tr>
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The Trio has now become the Duo. Spirit and Abbey will grieve, each in their own way, as they did for the canines, Chelsea and Benji, who have gone on before. They will go on. They will rearrange the order between them, although to me it will look much the same. Spirit will maintain her position as leader, princess, diva even though she has always been the middle cat. She will continue to make the rules <i>and</i> enforce her rules upon our entire family. And Abbey will let Spirit continue to believe she is the leader, all the while doing whatever her playful, carefree, do as you please spirit inspires her to do. In the days to come, they will receive more rounds of playtime, cuddles, snuggles, and love than they ever imagined or desired whether they want them or not. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easter Sunday - March 31, 2013</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">March 24, 2014</td></tr>
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And yes, dh and I will also grieve, each in our own way. We will each recall different events, share memorable stories, and combined piece together a complete life story with one stray wild black cat, "the kitten," as we originally called her. We will tell the story over again of how she lived in the squirrel's nest and ran head first down the old oak's trunk at the rattle of her food bowl. We will recall my insistence that we call the fire department to rescue her from the cedar tree, and dh's veto, instead choosing to climb the extension ladder, lacing the tree branches with deli turkey to coax her down. It will not be easy this time, for the more dependent she became upon my care, the closer we grew. The last few weeks have been hectic preparing for Thanksgiving and Christmas; the cleaning, cooking, shopping, and planning have occupied the space where grief ordinarily would have resided. I know myself well. The days ahead will be for remembering, reflecting. I will wander, begin projects, and set them aside. A restlessness of sorts will find me uncertain what to do with a free schedule once ruled by the clock for feedings, fluids, medications, caretaking for a dear friend. The day will come when I will take out the to-do list and begin again checking off some items. But not today. Or tomorrow. Or even the day after that. No, these days are for remembering, for treasuring. Perhaps I will go through the photo albums and print the digital photos on the computer. I will think I need a print of each and every one and remind myself to be selective. I will make a photo album just for TC. And maybe some scrapbook pages, too. Yes, these would be good projects, ones for total immersion. Catharsis.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">December, 1996 - Once TC came inside, Chelsea claimed her as her own kitten.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yRe3MXEImXo/VI3pe16M51I/AAAAAAAABVM/qgHxnAwpHAA/s1600/Dec%2B96%2Bbath%2Ba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yRe3MXEImXo/VI3pe16M51I/AAAAAAAABVM/qgHxnAwpHAA/s1600/Dec%2B96%2Bbath%2Ba.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">December, 1996 - Never far from Mama Chelsea's sight, even at bathtime!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gaKKnRebrkI/VI3pfICCrFI/AAAAAAAABVU/Vm9Mpj7DfCg/s1600/Dec%2B96.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gaKKnRebrkI/VI3pfICCrFI/AAAAAAAABVU/Vm9Mpj7DfCg/s1600/Dec%2B96.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">December, 1996 - Clean, shiny and dry once again, time to snuggle against Chelsea<br />
for some warmth and a long nap.</td></tr>
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I have no regrets. It is what our life is about, isn't it? To live in such a manner that when we look back we can say we gave our best, fulfilled our promises. It isn't always possible, but we do the best we can. I promised TC from her early days as a frightened kitten that if she dared to trust, I would care for her in any way she needed. I made decisions with TC's interest in the forefront to honor her. The busyness, the errands, the so-called obligations, commitments were set aside for the more treasured time with our girl. I like this slower pace I have come to accept the last two years; it wasn't always easy, quieting the voices of "expectation" or "must do." I intend to honor it and draw upon the lessons I learned because of one so small. "Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart." I am humbled that this quiet creature, one who always hung back, one who asked for so little, gave us her best, and tolerated so much could instill an awakening to accept a different path. A shift in perspective to a quieter, gentler way. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">June 22, 2007</td></tr>
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I did not say good-bye to the blackest cat in all the land for she will always be part of our family and dwell within our hearts. She has influenced who we are and the way we live. How do you say good-bye to the one who has invoked so much laughter and joy by her antics? When she was a very young kitten and first came inside, she received 10 stitches for a ruptured abscess on her side, possibly caused by running into a stick in the yard. She was supposed to remain quiet. Her vet called one evening to find out how she was. Did I dare tell him that while we were speaking she scaled the living room drapes and was currently hanging at the top near the curtain rod? No, there are some things even the vet doesn't need to know. No, I could not tell her good-bye, the one whose fur absorbed countless tears and whose ears heard the secrets of the heart. Instead, I thanked her for choosing us, told her how grateful we were that the best black cat in all the land claimed us. She was our first cat and as such acquired a certain prestige; not that she was any more special than the others, but there is a certain distinction, respect, hierarchy that comes with being first, providing our first glimpses into cat frolics and cat wisdom. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">December 7, 2014</td></tr>
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We went together, dh and I, to pick up TC's pawprint from the vet's office on my birthday. I was so touched when they said they made one. I waited with the anticipation of a child awaiting Santa for the day I would hold the print in my hands. There was no finer gift this day than the small clay cast which allowed me to trace the imprint of her paw with my fingers. It was the first ornament placed on our tree this year, hung together by dh and me as soon as the lights were lit.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">October 4, 2003</td></tr>
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The following verse is displayed in the kitty exam room at our vet's office, a room I have frequented many times and often too many times over the last two years. I have read and re-read this verse, knowing one day, a not so distant day, its meaning would change; it would be written for me.</div>
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"We who choose to surround ourselves</div>
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with lives more temporary than our own,</div>
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live within a fragile circle;</div>
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easily and often breached.</div>
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Unable to accept its awful gaps,</div>
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we would still live no other way.</div>
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We cherish memory as the only </div>
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understanding the necessary plan."</div>
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<i>-- Irving Townsend</i></div>
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Blessed be your heart, dear TC.</div>
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Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-86952970342311347912014-11-09T23:52:00.002-06:002014-12-20T14:40:51.025-06:00Attic Treasures<h4 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #45818e; font-weight: normal;">TC's Journey - Part Two of Two</span></h4>
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(TC's Journey, Part One, begins <a href="http://abbeys-attic.blogspot.com/2014/06/catching-up.html" target="_blank">here</a>.)</div>
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December found us venturing out as many warm days as possible, if only briefly, knowing winter's chill would arrive all too soon. We wandered in the yard on December 3, an unusual gift of the season, and TC was able to shed her blanket once again.</div>
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Abbey spent her time wandering,<br />
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exploring,<br />
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and being the silly, playful girl she is.<br />
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Spirit, on the other hand, ventured from familiar sitting spot to sitting spot, eventually deciding upon the stairs to enjoy the breeze and let the sunshine come to her.<br />
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TC was feeling well and strong after her October illness. I didn't realize quite how much strength she had gained until she began to climb the deck stairs on her own. I stayed close behind, reassuring myself probably more than her that she could climb all the way to the top.</div>
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She navigated a few steps at a time</div>
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and paused part way up for a bit of a bath, something she hadn't often done since her illness.</div>
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She made it all the way to the top and lingered there for quite a while, pleased with herself at her solo accomplishment. She surveyed her familiar territory, taking it all in from a lofty vantage point.</div>
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It was a grand time for our blackest cat in all the land, sunbathing during the lingering days of autumn into winter's warmth.</div>
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She began to walk down the stairs alone, all ten of them, but that was far too much independence for her and way too scary for me! Safe in my arms once again, we made our way down for a bit more exploring before time to head inside for what was to be our last long outing before winter's snows arrived.<br />
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It began as a day when the "to do" list dared to present itself, having last year been tucked away in the kitchen drawer (remember this <a href="http://abbeys-attic.blogspot.com/2013_07_01_archive.html" target="_blank">entry</a>?) One of those, "check something off and get 'em done" kind of days. But the calling breeze and the beckoning sunshine implored more emphatically than any list ever could. My spirit gave way to a day outside for the girls, the list put away for some other time once again. Oh yes, there was a time when the to-do's would have won out, a time when the call of the spirit would have been postponed for tomorrow. But not these days. These are TC's days, the most treasured days of all. Incredibly blessed and thankful, one of TC's most powerful teachings has been to let the spirit have its way, for spirit always knows best. Thanksgiving continued into December as untold gratitude surfaced into tears, watching our girl so strong, capable, and determined, while the best gift of Christmas came early this day, atop the deck stairs, beneath the old Maple tree.</div>
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We said good-bye to 2013 with the last sunset of the year </div>
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and began to look forward to our days inside in the coming season.<br />
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Winter was very kind to our girl, making trips to the vet minimal in January and February. We only had to venture out once monthly for her B-12 injections. I was relieved knowing she could be spared the bitter cold since her body no longer adequately regulates its temperature. It is what I had hoped for, with no major illnesses or infections. Our days were spent inside, with her laying by her snowman, absorbing the warmth from the lights during the day or evening, and spending her nights either snuggled next to me under the electric blanket or on her own bed in front of the heat vent covered by a fleece blanket. I brought the snowman upstairs very early last Fall, a comfort and warmth for TC when she was so ill in October. A handmade gift from a friend about six years ago, TC claimed the spot in front of the snowman from the very first time the lights were turned on. Those big bulbs do give out quite a bit of warmth.</div>
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It didn't take Spirit long to realize there was something different about the snowman set up this year as she discovered the addition of the heating pad under the kitty bed. It then became squatter's rights for whoever snuggled in the bed first, with the outsider left to stare, willing the comfy kitty to move. </div>
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And so, as with many occurrences this year, things were changed, we adjusted. A bed was added, the heating pad unfolded, prime real estate expanded, and one content kitty became two. Things were a little more crowded, the path through the dining room narrower. It is what we do...<br />
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Once TC discovered the heat vent in the bedroom and decided that was her place of choice, I made her a new fleece bed, loosely stuffed with polyfil. She claimed it immediately, either knowing it was for her, or in an effort to keep it from Spirit and Abbey. </div>
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Spirit only had one chance to lay on it, when I first placed it on the floor. She and Abbey must have known it belonged to TC since neither of them made any further attempts to snuggle on this bed.</div>
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January and February were filled with cold days and several bouts of snow. We were warm and safe inside, looking out, enjoying these days free from errands and obligations. Abbey entertained herself by watching the birds at the feeders, while Spirit chose to nap awaiting Spring, and TC rested contently. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A racoon visitor in our front yard around 10:00 PM mid-February.</td></tr>
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Super Bowl Sunday is always a big deal at our house. We so look forward to this day. No, I can't say who played in the game this year, or even who won. It isn't really about football for us. It's about the Kitten Bowl that's played the same day! We purchase our game day munchies and get our work done quickly just like everyone else, in preparation for the big day! Abbey loves to perch in front of the TV for the entire game. See her chair sitting there? It just isn't close enough. She likes to be up close and personal where she can really follow the plays. And what's not to love? Time outs for naps and penalties for being, "too cute!" My kind of football! Ha! </div>
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Along with fun time during the Super Bowl, we had some creative time in February as well. I wanted to express appreciation to our veterinarian's office for all they had been doing for TC. Just in time for Valentine's Day, the kitchen was taken over by hoot owls, thirty of them to be exact!</div>
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They were packaged with toppers stamped using Hero Arts, "Whoo Loves You?" and a bit of Wink of Stella was added to the owls and the hearts for some Valentine sparkle.</div>
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TC would not have approved of an inky paw, so a string of hearts was added on the back letting everyone know whooo loved them.</div>
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I promised TC she could deliver her cookies, but Valentine's Day proved far too cold for an outing. However, I didn't sense any disappointment from her in missing a trip to the vet.</div>
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Spring made several attempts at arriving early this year, and each time we thought it was finally here. The colors, the scents, the warm breeze, all were so welcome after our winter days inside.</div>
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It was a spring sprinkled with days of warmth, rain, and sunshine.</div>
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The tulips bowed their heads in thanksgiving for moments of nurturing rain, something all too infrequent last year.<br />
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Autumn Glory (yes, we named her), the Fireglo Maple we planted last fall, survived her first winter in our front yard, delighting us with her newborn foliage.</div>
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The backyard lilac bush was covered in clusters this year. Who would have thought this would happen after so many snows and so much cold? I opened the attic window, even though there was still a chill in the air, just to enjoy the lilac fragrance as it filled our space with its brief, yet oh so familiar scent in the early spring.</div>
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Yes, spring arrived, and the Attic view was lush and oh, so welcome.<br />
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The finches shed their winter brown attire in exchange for daffodil bright Easter finery that clothes them through autumn.<br />
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My favorite tulip did not disappoint this year. It is a lone bulb, one I harvested from my childhood home many years ago. We have no idea how it happened there, having grown for numerous years at the edge of the woodland where I spent most summer days, playing, imagining, dreaming.<br />
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And yes, there were flowers this year! The pots that remained barren all of last season were once again blooming with color. My heart smiled as their nodding heads welcomed me home or greeted me as I looked out the front door. It really is the simple things, isn't it?</div>
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TC enjoyed her early spring days, resting on the deck stairs as I arranged and rearranged flowers in the pots, deciding which ones should be in the front yard and which in the back. Oh how I enjoyed these dear friends, having missed them so last summer.</div>
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I wish I could say spring and summer were as kind to our girl as winter. TC developed what her vet termed, "a raging bacterial urinary tract infection"the end of March and received a 10-day antibiotic shot followed by an additional 10-day course of a different antibiotic to rid her system of the bacteria. There was yet another bladder infection in July and another one in September. She suffered a micro stroke the end of April; the results of her neurological tests were not what I had hoped. The only course of treatment was to wait and see how much she could rebound. Three weeks later, when it was time once again for her B12 injection, her neurological tests were greatly improved. She has continued to have some residual effect in her back leg, but all in all, a good recovery. Each illness takes its toll on her small body, never fully recovering to her previous state of wellness. But tenacious she is, and not much stops her.<br />
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Mid-April I left TC to run some errands with my friend. We were gone only a short time, an hour and 45 minutes. When we returned, TC was missing. We checked all of her usual resting places and then began searching under furniture and places she seldom frequented. After several frightening moments, my friend finally found her, wedged in the four-inch space between the wall and the fridge, at the very back corner. I don't know how she managed to fit, but there she sat, scrunched, facing the wall. I am not certain if she was waiting for rescue or was quite content for respite from the incessant walking she had been doing all day, the wandering this time caused by an adverse reaction to a new anti-nausea medication. My friend moved the fridge and was able to slide her hand under TC's tummy, scooping her to freedom. Since then, we have scrutinized our surroundings and hopefully TC-proofed our home. The days are made of such caretaking; how I wish it wasn't necessary, but I am grateful to provide the care she needs.<br />
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TC visited the vet on April 30 for her monthly B-12 shot, a necessity to keep her levels in balance. When she becomes low on B-12, nausea and drooling set in and she is unable to consume the food necessary to maintain her weight. She becomes lethargic and basically doesn't feel well. While we were there, I was asked if she could be on their FaceBook page as the senior pet for the day. Of course I agreed. I think our girl posed quite nicely for her social media debut!<br />
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Once May's warmth descended upon us permanently and the front door was opened daily, TC returned to her favorite place on the entryway rug, her black fur warmed by the sun shining upon it. Abbey decided that was her chosen place to hang out as well. In addition to the sun's warmth, I also believe TC developed a need to be near someone at this time. Abbey didn't always like sharing what was usually first claimed by her, but she was ordinarily a good sport and let TC lay unusually close by.</div>
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Once summer's heat arrived in June and we turned on the air conditioning, TC decided the vent was no longer her friend, even though we shut the louvers and completely sealed it off. She sought out a new place for her bed and discovered the warm air coming from under the fridge. It continues to be her favorite place. Her bed there is made of two memory foam mats stacked on top of each other, along with her fleece blanket for padding and another blanket to cover her. I am not sure if it is the blowing warm air or the constant hum she finds comforting. It is a bit awkward place for her to be, but it doesn't deter me from my numerous trips in and out of the fridge. It just means she receives extra cuddles and hugs as I scoop her up each time to open and close the door. Was this her plan all along? </div>
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TC's summer days were filled with good days and bad. For the most part, the good won out. The bad ones were very bad, filled with confusion, an inability to stop pacing, vomiting, drooling, nausea. I was told this was the course we were on. We celebrated the good days and provided reassurance and comfort to ease the bad ones. Much of the nausea, drooling and vomiting has now subsided due to the addition of potassium to her daily fluids instead of the oral medication that was discontinued in July when it was found she could no longer tolerate it. It has all been a process, discovering what does and doesn't work.</div>
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Our summer, like the spring, was filled with several rainy days as well as thunderstorms. The storms were especially difficult for our black cat, even though they never bothered her before. Sometimes she would pace for a couple of days before a storm, and other times it would be during the storm. No amount of holding her or rocking could console her or give her respite from the uncontrollable walking that took over her body sometimes for many hours at a time. We tried several different modes to calm her; closing all the blinds, playing soft music, sitting on the floor with her. Fortunately she has calmed some in the last couple of months as autumn's arrival has brought fewer rainy days.</div>
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Last fall's illness involving the toxicity to her subcutaneous fluids was the beginning of TC receiving daily fluids at home instead of at the vet's office. November through mid-July, my friend came every evening to hold TC while I administered the fluids when dh wasn't able to be home at the scheduled time. There were times when my friend and I changed our plans for an evening out and decided to have take out food at my house instead, based on TC's condition for the day. Just recently, upon hearing that TC was quite ill over the weekend, she brought a surprise Chinese dinner once again. She's like that, my friend, always knowing what to do, and when to do it. Her presence blesses me and she is loved. Her devotion and concern for TC (and me) has been unwavering. She has heard my fears and celebrated the good times with us. After TC's micro stroke in April, eating from her food bowl was quite difficult unless I sat on the floor and held the bowl up for her. My friend, ever so kindly, asked if I had tried putting the bowl on a phone book. Well, no, the thought had not occurred to me, so involved I was with care taking, that common sense escaped me. Her idea worked beautifully, and to this day, TC still uses the phone book. It really does take a village, doesn't it? While I could have done the fluids alone and somehow kept TC from escaping, especially in the early days, it was so much easier with my friend's help (or dh's help). But then, everything is always easier with a friend, isn't it?</div>
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TC has now enjoyed a lifetime of 19 years and five months (an approximation since she came to us as a small feral kitten). Her weight is currently less than one-half its once robust 12 pounds, the effect of kidney disease. On good days. On bad days or when she is a bit dehydrated, it may be less. She receives a special mix of subcutaneous fluids once per day and medications two times per day. There are now a total of three prescriptions. I give her 24-30 ml of water per day through a syringe and 5- 6 teaspoons of water on her food since she has been unable to drink on her own since her diagnosis in 2012. She eats 4-5 times daily. Her once all black fur is now showing tinges of auburn as it did in her kittenhood, an equal sophistication to gray, for certain. Earlier this summer, I spotted the first white hairs, a few on her tail, a few on her right hip.<br />
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For everything TC has been through, the good days and the bad, her spirit is still strong. Dr. S calls her "amazing." During one of our visits last month, after discussing yet another rebound and another possible stroke, he has come to believe she has 18 lives. Dr. H calls her "a tough ol' girl." My friend who cuddles her for her fluid treatments thinks she's "incredible." Another friend who visited her this summer called her "one loved little kitty." That she is. And then there is a long distance friend who has never met TC, but always checks on her, who has relabeled her initials from "TC - Tree Climber" to "TC - Tenacious Cat." I like that. Determined. Persistent. Strong spirited. That she is.<br />
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Her mind may wander much as her body does, but there are things of which she is certain. She knows where the sun spots are and follows the sun's course as it moves from room to room throughout her day. I too have learned where to find her at a given time. She knows the difference between me holding her and someone else doing the same. She is content to sit on her blanket on the vet's examining table until Dr. S comes in the room. It is then she reaches up, climbs into my arms, paws for my shoulder and turns her head away from the one who has come to help her. She knows when my friend arrives and it is time for fluids. We head for the bedroom, where I attempt to place her in a kitty bed. She reaches again for my shoulder, tries to hold on, knowing that in my arms she will elude the daily needle poke. Her ability to tell time remained unwavering until the last few weeks. Treat time at 10:00 p.m. was never missed. Spirit and Abbey depended on her movement, telling them it was time. She would sit in front of the cabinet until it was opened and I sat on the floor with them, handing out treats. In the rare event I missed the designated time, she came to find me, pacing between me and the cabinet, until she convinced me I had missed the holy hour, the time when the treat gods arrived! </div>
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I reflect on our December days and I am so glad I took time out from the busyness and chose to spend some days outside. Spring and summer did not offer TC the enjoyment for being outdoors that she experienced last year. She no longer desired to be in the grass or to go exploring, preferring instead to wander on the patio or the front driveway. As often as possible, I continue to carry her the short distance to the corner, showing her up and down the street, and then we make our way home, all the while hoping the stimulation is enjoyed by her. It is sometimes hard to tell.<br />
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Summer took her leave abruptly this year as autumn ushered in her appearance. Short sleeves and sandals one day were replaced with sweaters and socks the next. The air conditioning has been turned off and the furnace has had some brief trial runs. September 5 marked two years since TC's initial diagnosis of liver failure; it was a year ago in August we received her diagnosis of kidney failure. TC's Halloween photo above was taken in September this year while the mum was still in full bloom. So many years frost comes early and the mum is replaced with another arrangement.<br />
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We have had glorious Indian summer days this last month followed by short bursts of cold that have kept us inside as we prepare for the seasonal change. This brings us full circle in seasons since part one of catching up on TC's journey began last October. It is TC's autumn as well. I do not tease myself. There will not be another year of seasons shared together, she and I. I know the signs as surely as I know the falling leaves are the harbinger of winter's arrival. This impression flits before me and is fleeting, much as the leaves descend and dance their autumnal dance upon the brisk breeze. I do not allow it to dwell and take rest. To do so would dismiss our today. I prefer instead to continue our own dance, to treasure the holding, the moments, our time together. We have been on a journey of gratitude, she and I, for whatever blessings have come our way, a journey of quality in a lifetime, quality time together. We have celebrated milestones with holidays and mini treats I never thought possible in the early days of diagnosis; days of strength and wellness, good veterinary checkups, a soft black forehead pressed against my cheek, a nuzzle. </div>
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TC has shined her black cat shine for another Halloween, and for the blessing of that day, we can ask no more. I believe she knew they were her Halloween days made just for her, the blackest cat in all the land, for she experienced exceptionally good days on October 30 and 31. Below is her Halloween photo, taken October 30, since Halloween day was predicted to be cold, cloudy and windy.</div>
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And so our days continue on. I appreciate your time and devotion in reading this very long post and I am so very grateful for those of you who have been following TC's journey. I realize there are many blogs to visit, and time is precious. Abbey's Attic began as a place to share card designs and bits and pieces of our everyday. Since I have had very limited time for card making these days, it has become an online journal, a place to record TC's journey and to share the Attic treasures. One day I will have some cards to post and will share a few I haven't blogged yet. For now, my days are spent with my girls, caring for and loving them.</div>
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As I have been writing this very long post a song my Grandmother loved has been playing in my mind. I think about her a lot. The faith she lived, the strength of her spirit, her wisdom filled words, all molded and shaped an infant into her early adult years. The lyrics are the refrain to "Those Were The Days," by Mary Hopkins. I have substituted some of the words as I suppose that is music's purpose; to inspire, to move, to claim and even perchance to mold the words as our own.</div>
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"These are the days my friend.</div>
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We pray they never end.</div>
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We sing and dance forever and a day.</div>
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We live the life we choose, </div>
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We fight and hope we'll never lose.</div>
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These are the days,</div>
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Oh, yes,</div>
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These</div>
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These are the days."</div>
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Blessed be your days my friends,</div>
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Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-87982370805705597952014-10-31T02:03:00.001-05:002014-12-20T14:40:13.890-06:00Happy Halloween!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>By pumpkins fat</i></div>
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<i>and witches lean...</i></div>
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<i>By coal black cats</i></div>
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<i>with eyes of green,</i></div>
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<i>By all the magic</i></div>
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<i>ever seen...</i></div>
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<i>I wish you luck</i></div>
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<i>this Hallowe'en.</i></div>
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TC Black Cat. </div>
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Blackest cat in all the land (at least that's what we remind her).</div>
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It's Halloween and our girl's day to shine! </div>
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And shine she does as we celebrate another year of loving her. </div>
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A year ago today, our morning was filled with the fright even the darkest dark could not invoke. And here we are today, TC blessed with enough strength and tenacity to participate in a brief photo session and give me quite the chase as she continuously made a break from her blanket on the step.</div>
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Here is our "Trio" of little witches just for fun.</div>
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Oh yes, these girls do love me! They must to suffer such adornment! But even though their love is true, I'll be on the lookout for some spooky tricks that just may be coming my way tonight!</div>
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Happy Halloween!</div>
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Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-23711169100640230112014-07-14T19:36:00.000-05:002014-07-14T19:41:28.115-05:00Hidden in the Stars<h4 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><i>Inspired by Lisa Spangler</i></span></h4>
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Hubby and I celebrated our anniversary last month and this is the card I made for him. He likes cards depicting nature, scenery, and animals, so I thought he would enjoy this one. I recently received the Hero Arts "Tree for Life" stamp and was looking forward to having a chance to use it. I saw <a href="http://sideoatsandscribbles.wumple.com/2014/04/01/a-blog-named-hero-is-two/" target="_blank">this</a> card on Lisa Spangler's blog and swooned! The constellation background and the peacefulness of being under the canopy of stars is so inviting, her inking technique superb. I love how light her card looks, but still depicts nighttime. Mine came out a bit dark, I think, but there wasn't time for any do-overs!</div>
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I used a technique I've seen on Heather Telford's <a href="http://cards.heathertelford.com/2012/08/21/winterberries/" target="_blank">blog</a> to obtain the shadow around the tree. Heather's blog is always a delight to visit; her cards are beautiful, many of them depicting nature at its finest. She uses different techniques and explains them so well. I first stamped the tree in versamark and then reinked it in Versafine Black, stamping slightly below and to the left of the original image. Next, I added clear embossing powder and sprinkled on just a bit of sparkle embossing powder and heat embossed the image. Once I inked the sky, the shadow appeared like magic and there was just a bit of sparkle.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZpmZLbXcmHY/U8Q1lm6fNaI/AAAAAAAABC4/Pb5RUjibH2c/s1600/IMG_3783+picmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZpmZLbXcmHY/U8Q1lm6fNaI/AAAAAAAABC4/Pb5RUjibH2c/s1600/IMG_3783+picmonkey.jpg" height="472" width="640" /></a></div>
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My plan all along was for there to be a heart in the sky, a new constellation. My original thought was to use a die cut heart to pierce around and then add some gems for the heart along with a few random stars. Then I thought about using the Hero Arts "Tiny Star Background," but decided that would be too many stars for the simpler design I had in mind. I pulled out my Simon Says Stamp "Falling Stars" Stencil and decided, yes, this would give me the option to choose how many stars I really wanted while still trying to decide how to include a heart. As I stared at the stencil, deciding which stars to mask, it suddenly appeared. It was beyond belief! Hidden amongst all those stars was my very own heart constellation, already designed for me! I think my very heart skipped a little! Want to see it?</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bJfnT6yvFgk/U8QnrPBeGII/AAAAAAAABCQ/Dqmz8lV1rg0/s1600/IMG_3757+picmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bJfnT6yvFgk/U8QnrPBeGII/AAAAAAAABCQ/Dqmz8lV1rg0/s1600/IMG_3757+picmonkey.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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I used Encore Metallic Silver ink with a dauber for the stars. The addition of one star at the very bottom finished the heart design. A few gems for sparkle and the heart was complete.</div>
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Our anniversary was one of those "ordinary" days. We were going to visit the zoo to see the new penguin exhibit, but it was a pouring rain kind of day. Then we thought about a movie, but there wasn't anything playing we really wanted to see. When all else failed, what did we decide to do? We worked! Silly old people we are! Dh took down the family room mini blinds, one by one, and while he held them above the bathtub, I washed and sprayed all the dust and grime away. What we thought was a little project, took much longer than anticipated. Oh, and I washed and rehung the swags also. Were we desperate for something to do? Ah, but I am still enjoying the shine on the slats even now as I gaze at the birds at their feeders or the setting sun late in the day. Afterwards, we went for a quiet early dinner where our waitress treated us to an apple cobbler with ice cream dessert since she noticed our exchanged cards on the table beside us. It was definitely a good day to celebrate. And, I think we found a movie to go see in a couple of weeks. A second day of celebration!</div>
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Dh gave me two beautiful cards to celebrate our day. Now that I am creating cards, I think he makes an even more concerted effort to choose the most beautiful card he can find, and that he does. So, I just want to share how the card conversation went when he opened his:</div>
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dh: Ooooooooooooooh, wow! (or some such exclamation.)</div>
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me: (grinning) Do you like it?</div>
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dh: I love it! That's really beautiful.</div>
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me: It's not quite what I wanted.</div>
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dh: It's great! I love it! What's <i>wrong</i> with it?</div>
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me: The ground looks like snow.</div>
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dh: I love snow!</div>
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me: It's supposed to be a warm <i>June</i> evening. With grass. </div>
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Sitting outside looking up at the stars...</div>
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dh: But <i>I love</i> snow!</div>
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Thirty-two years later, still gotta love him!</div>
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Venture out tonight. Look up at the stars. Find the love hidden there!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Materials:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Neenah Solar White; ANW Crestwood Amethyst Metallic</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps: Hero Arts "Tree for Life" K5910</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink: Versafine Black; Versamark; Encore Silver Metallic</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Distress Inks: Broken China, Chipped Sapphire, Faded Jeans, Pumice Stone, Shaded Lilac, Tumbled Glass</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stencil: SSS "Falling Stars"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Other: Hero Arts Clear Gemstones; May Arts Silver Twine; Hero Arts Clear and Sparkle Embossing Powder</span></div>
Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-86782126288966592612014-06-03T22:01:00.001-05:002014-12-20T14:41:54.900-06:00Catching Up<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Goodness,
where has the time gone? We were snuggled into the midst of Winter gazing out
the attic window at barren trees and snow for my last post, and now we are well into the greening of Spring, late blossoms in full bloom. I have had several
ideas for blog posts jostling around inside and many, many photos on the camera awaiting their turn on the blog. Time has escaped me once again and I am
playing catch up. Instead of skipping over the posts I've written in my head like I have done in the past, I thought a series called, "Catching
Up" might be in order. This way, when I write of snowy days or Easter in
August (hopefully it won't be that long!) it won't seem as though I have
completely taken leave of my senses! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">One of the reasons I began this blog, in
addition to sharing card designs, was to document the everyday, the twinklings which make us who we are. Attic Treasures, so to speak. Words. Photographs. Those pieces of memory we fold and wrap in tissue, tie with a satin bow, and tuck neatly away in the antique attic chest. Bits and pieces
of everyday gratitude, experiences, keepsakes. Moments we think we'll remember, but all too soon we forget. We don't mean to let them slip away, but they do. Until one day. A rainy day. A snowy day. A nostalgic day. We wander into the attic seeking our cherished friends, our treasured memories. We move a few boxes of this and that, wipe away some dust, and notice a line of paw prints from one edge of the chest to the other. TC, Spirit, or Abbey have been exploring on their own. We open the lid and before us lie the treasures of our lives. A spotted feather. A rock from Lake Superior. A crocheted cross. The tattered and very worn childhood quilt. And the cards, oh my, the cards! Firsts. And lasts. A veritable treasure trove of cherished times, recalled memories. The little big things. Without the attic, how can we recall these memories? Abbey and I invite you to share with us in our space, Abbey's Attic, the shelter, the holding place where our day to day experiences rest and dwell to one day be cherished again.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #45818e;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Attic Treasures - TC's Journey (Part One of Two)</span></span></div>
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And so, let's begin. This is a terribly long post, and if you haven't time or desire to read it, I do understand. My wish is to document our black cat's journey as I have written in previous posts. And in case anyone is wondering, our girl hasn't been neglected during this lengthy journal entry; much of it has been composed while holding her nestled in one arm, rocking her, patting her, while typing with the other hand.<br />
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I have been remiss in not
updating more frequently with TC's progress and I do apologize. I have shared phone calls with some and updated others via email and I thank you from the depths of my heart for caring as
deeply as you do and checking on her. TC is currently well, spending her days in the sunshine or making certain she stays near me. It has been quite the journey uphill and
down since her <a href="http://abbeys-attic.blogspot.com/2013/10/its-halloween.html#comment-form">Halloween</a> photo was shared. Has it really been seven months
already?</div>
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Friday, October
25, 2013 is another of those days etched in my memory. TC stopped drinking
from her water bowl in Autumn, 2012 shortly after she was diagnosed with liver failure.
There were days she obsessed about the water bowl, but was unable to drink.
Eventually she stopped going to it completely. She began subcutaneous fluids a
few times per week upon the initial diagnosis. So I did think it odd when on
Sunday that week she began going to the bowl once again. This time, however,
was different; she was pushing her entire face into the bowl, soaking herself
numerous times per day. Over the course of the week, the frequency became less,
but I started noticing other signs she wasn't feeling well. History reminded me her condition could go from good to critical in only hours.<br />
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I made an appointment with
Dr. S. for Friday afternoon. That morning found her unable to eat, barely able to walk, stumbling into the walls, and becoming stuck in familiar places. By the time we arrived at the vet's office she was no longer able to stand, her back legs turning under at the first joint. There were other neurological abnormalities as well. She was cold to the touch, her body temperature quite low at 98.5. (Normal temperature for cats is 100 - 102.) Dr. S did not like what he was seeing and neither did I. Blood was painstakingly drawn from her frail back leg and then we waited. She was wrapped in a heated blanket and I held her, rocked her, wanting to heal her, to keep her in my arms forever. Dr. S returned to the room, sat beside me, and explained the findings. TC's kidneys were not filtering out sodium and chloride, the very components of the subcutaneous fluids she was currently receiving three times per week. Her sodium level was so high the lab report could not register a number and was indicated simply by ">." The chloride level registered a dangerously high number as well. In essence, her body had become toxic from the very fluid that was sustaining her. The course of treatment was an IV to bring the levels down. She would need to be hospitalized overnight. My primary concern was that she would not survive the stress and confusion from being alone in an unfamiliar environment. Dr. S consulted with a specialist who recommended an alternative treatment that didn't involve an overnight stay. The success rate was 50%; I knew we had to try. Her front leg was shaved and the IV was inserted; I sat holding her in the operating area for two hours until the office closed. She received a special mix of subcutaneous fluids before we returned home for the evening.<br />
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That evening was spent caretaking and preparing for what I was told could be a lengthy illness. The sodium and chloride levels had to be brought down very slowly over several days. I prepared beds for us in the living room. She had recently been taking refuge in a pop up laundry basket tipped on its side. Abbey's toy became TC's bed for a few days. I layered a memory foam rug, the heating pad, and her fleece blanket on top. More blankets were added around her to keep her warm. I made a pallet for me with two more memory foam rugs and removed our faithful blue blanket from its shelf in the linen closet. This blanket has seen us through many illnesses, movies and even a picnic or two since its purchase the first Winter of our marriage. Quite an investment in those early days for a young couple beginning life together, but a worthwhile one for certain to have this source of comfort so many years later. Once again, it offered nurture, warmth, assurance through yet another illness.<br />
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We returned to the vet's office by 7:30 the next morning for an additional 4.5 hour IV during which I swaddled her, rocked her, assured her, possibly more for me than for her. She received another round of subcutaneous fluids, followed by another blood test. The chloride level had improved a small amount which also meant that even though the sodium level still didn't register a number, it was improving as well. By 12:30 pm we were home and on our own until Monday when the vet's office would reopen. There is something reassuring about knowing a doctor's office is open, isn't there?<br />
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And so our routine began. I gave her warmed food and water with a syringe as often as she would take it. She wanted the food, but was only able to "smoosh" her face in the bowl, a very technological term I learned at the vet's. As day followed day, sometimes she ate on her own; other times she needed to be fed. She needed help in and out of the litter box for several days. She was held and rocked either in the rocker or while walking to encourage her to sleep.<br />
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The wee hours of Sunday morning found us having, "the talk." You know the one. I had drifted off to sleep and awoke to find her eyes glazed, her body limp and not moving. She had wet her bed and as I cleaned her, she remained motionless. Between 4:15 and 5:20 am she went from a motionless state to walking approximately 20 feet on her own. It was a good sign, or so I thought. She was unable to settle herself, walking, wandering aimlessly the rest of the day, through the entire night and into the mid-morning hours on Monday when sleep finally gave her respite for most of the day and evening. </div>
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Tuesday found her very weak, sleeping very soundly and difficult to awaken. We had been to the vet for fluids around noon this day, but by 5:40 pm, I found her temperature had dropped again. I spoke with Dr. H and we decided she should be seen. Their office closed at 6:00 pm, but he and a technician stayed so she could be evaluated. This veterinary group has been amazing in their display of compassion, care, and gentleness in all of the ways they have handled TC and responded to her care. They have treated her as their own beloved pet and for that I will always be grateful. Another blood test was run and more fluids were administered. We would have to wait until morning for the results.<br />
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Dr. S called at 7:30 Wednesday morning with the test results. They were good and bad. The sodium level was almost normal; the chlorine was not dangerously high. But the kidney values were higher which meant they were working less efficiently than they were on Friday. Dr. S and I spoke at length regarding all the things we think about when time is of the essence. Essentially, we also had, "the talk." He advised to wait and see how the day went since she was developing a somewhat cyclical pattern; critical mornings and improved afternoons. She had an OK morning, but then became weaker by noon. I spoke with Dr. S again at 12:30 pm and he recommended daily fluids the rest of the week. He examined her when she received fluids at 3:00 pm and she seemed to be better by then.<br />
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Halloween, the day of fright, dawned dreary cold and rainy outside and equally as dismal inside. It was our girl's day to shine, the day made just for her, and yet we awoke to another morning of TC being critical, weak and stumbling, her eyes vacant, unseeing. Another conversation with Dr. S and again a discussion about what to do. His advice was the same as yesterday. And so I waited. I called dh to let him know her status, and together we decided against any action this day if it could be avoided. I had spent a lot of time thinking about "when the time came" and having conversations with TC. But not today. It could not be this day. Be scared. Be very scared. It was a morning and early afternoon filled with the fright even the darkest dark could not invoke. She was difficult to awaken at 1:00 in the afternoon from our pallet in the living room, but by 1:25 pm she came in the kitchen as she heard her food being prepared. She ate her chicken baby food on her own and by 1:40 pm I felt confident she could handle a very short photo shoot - the annual Halloween photo. I set up the scene, placed her in a basket, a couple of quick photos and it was complete. It had to be indoors this year due to the rain, but a good photo, considering her condition only hours earlier.<br />
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By late afternoon the rain and gloom that began our girl's day gave way to the warmth of sunshine and a beautiful Indian Summer treat. TC felt better after receiving fluids; doubly blanket-wrapped, we were able to head outside to enjoy a bit of her Halloween day.</div>
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Sometime during the week, TC decided she preferred sleeping next to me at night instead of in her laundry hamper. I moved a fleece pillow cat bed next to my pallet on the floor, and every night we began with her on her bed on top of the heating pad and covered with her blanket. Within a few minutes, she would wiggle and crawl over next to me, nestled in one arm, enfolded with the other. We
rested this way for 17 nights, she and I. She slept the slumber known only to
children and animals; restorative, healing, peacefully sound and deep sleep. I cat napped as she lay beside me. Adjusting covers, stroking, repositioning myself
ever so slightly, remembering, keeping watch. Always keeping watch. I inhaled the
sweet smell of her fur, how it absorbed the scent of my
hand lotion or the Downy from her freshly washed blanket. I listened to her
sleeping sounds, the contented ones, the troubled ones. I felt her warmth, her breath, under
my chin and against my neck. I noticed the occasional tremor of a curled leg tucked tightly against me. I felt her tuck her front leg inside the neckline of whatever I was wearing, her position of choice since kittenhood. And I longed, no, I ached, to remember these moments, cradling them safely inside as securely
as she nestled beside me.</div>
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I left her only twice during those 17 days, both times for a trip to the market; more deli turkey and baby food for her, more Diet Pepsi and bakery M&M cookies for me. Yes, it was a deliciously distressful fear-induced junk food binge as though the excessive calories I consumed might somehow benefit her. When she ate, I ate; when she didn't eat, I still ate!</div>
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Our days continued on in this way. Ups and downs. Victories, disappointments. Bad days and better days. Saturday, a week since her IV, found her sleeping a lot and difficult to awaken. She had spent the morning laying in the sun streaming through the front door and after our return from the vet for fluids, I decided to take her outside to experience yet another unusually warm Indian Summer afternoon. I sat on the driveway cradling her, my back against the black car, absorbing the warmth its shelter provided. TC slept in my lap for over two hours, her black fur also absorbing the sun's warmth in much the same way. She never awakened, but surely I think the sun's nurture must have been a welcome source of healing. Any activity to bring comfort was certainly worth a try.<br />
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As the leaves began to turn and Autumnal glory arrived outside, slowly, bit by bit, our days inside began to turn as well. TC was improving, becoming stronger, more aware, more responsive, her countenance brighter. Sunday, November 4 - Day 11, I noted in her Care Journal, "Good day. Strong, awake and alert until evening with only one nap. Acted like she felt better today. Slept all evening." I began this journal in September, 2012 at the onset of her journey; it is the place I record her activity, food and water intake, and general state of wellness. Again on Wednesday, the top of the journal page reflected, "Good Day!" and was underlined twice. There were three of these days in a row, followed by some days of setbacks, but all in all, we turned a corner where her condition was no longer termed, "critical." By November 11, I finally felt comfortable enough to leave her through the night and was back to sleeping in my own bed with TC either beside me or resting on her kitty pillow. Oh, how I missed my soft bed, its welcoming cushion, the warmth of the blankets and comforter snuggled around me. The comfortable familiarity of this haven of rest. As I laid on the living room floor with TC night after night, I spent much time thinking of those who miss the delight of warmth and softness to rest at day's end. It is not a choice for others as it had been for me; I pray for them a night of restoring rest that they may greet each new day refreshed.<br />
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Mid-November remained warm, filled with perfect Autumn days. We tried to spend a bit of time outside each day for stimulation, enjoying the offerings of the season. Winter would soon descend and walks outside would be replaced with walks to and from different windows, our role as active participants redefined as casual observers of the coming Winter. November 19 was one such day with a painterly sky backdrop against the now barren trees. The girls and I ventured into our backyard to enjoy the fleeting season's temptations to our senses.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G1ZPciIbU1o/U4vpoULsSFI/AAAAAAAAA_E/HWZRVLNcFyY/s1600/IMG_2112cc+picmonkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G1ZPciIbU1o/U4vpoULsSFI/AAAAAAAAA_E/HWZRVLNcFyY/s1600/IMG_2112cc+picmonkey.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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I had wrapped TC in her blanket for our outing, but the sun's warmth was more than adequate. I removed the blanket, and soon she became wiggly and squiggly, wanting out of my arms, preferring instead to explore on her own. The assertion of her independent little nature was a joyous sign to behold. I carried her to the flower bed to set her down so she could enjoy her freedom. Oh, how my heart skipped to watch her wander through the crisp leaves, sniff the many scents, and finally climb and perch upon her favorite rock wall! Tears of elation streamed down my cheeks as I sat on the ground away from her, watching her, granting her space and time to simply be a cat, capable of doing things on her own after such a lengthy illness. She would have been content to stay in the garden for the entire afternoon: she was definitely becoming stronger with each new day.<br />
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Even Papa (the big guy) and his daughter, Chloe, the neighborhood cats, came for a visit that afternoon. They too seemed to sense the fleeting of these days and enjoyed the crisp leaves beneath their feet, the gentle breeze, and a bit of companionship in the midst of their adventures.<br />
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I carried TC slowly back up the hill in our yard, lingering to capture the last bit of our afternoon adventure. The leaves on the old oak had turned their vibrant golden and I knew all too soon the wind would carry them to join the others that had already fallen.<br />
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The girls and I headed back inside after an hour or so. TC napped all afternoon and evening, only waking for dinner and treats before bedtime. I assumed this meant it was a grand afternoon for the blackest cat in all the land, to be outside, basking in the sunshine, finally feeling well and strong, enjoying the rapture of Autumn. If she were to speak for herself, I would like to think she would say, "goodness is made of moments such as this, for these truly are the days, my friend!"</div>
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<i>TC's journey, part two, follows soon.</i></div>
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Blessed be your days, my friends,</div>
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Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6800688654770356631.post-60215864504172052122014-02-23T23:13:00.000-06:002014-02-23T23:13:26.495-06:00This Pony Can Run!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WUgfaTr10Jg/UwphSVU3V9I/AAAAAAAAA7E/4xzcCVb5mh0/s1600/DSC00349_c+picmonkey+watermark+1000px.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WUgfaTr10Jg/UwphSVU3V9I/AAAAAAAAA7E/4xzcCVb5mh0/s1600/DSC00349_c+picmonkey+watermark+1000px.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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My husband loves seeing horses in a field. He especially loves the rare opportunity to gaze upon the wild horses. </div>
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Free. </div>
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Spirited.</div>
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Unbridled.</div>
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Grace-filled beauty.</div>
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Several years ago he experienced the adventure of working in Sioux Falls, South Dakota for a year of turning seasons. Weekends when he wasn't homeward bound were filled exploring and discovering the newness about him.</div>
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Above are some horses he happened upon in a field on his trek to Newton Hills State Park one such weekend. It appears he was a lone visitor venturing into the park this icy cold February day.</div>
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As soon as I saw <a href="http://www.simonsaysstamp.com/servlet/the-60921/Glitz-12-x-12/Detail" target="_blank">this</a> sticker sheet by Glitz titled, "Wild and Free," and the coordinating <a href="http://www.simonsaysstamp.com/servlet/the-60779/Glitz-6-x-6/Detail" target="_blank">paper pad</a> on one of my final trips to Archivers, I knew there would be several cards for dh from this set. Paper colors and patterns he would like. The paper and sticker elements are so appropriate for masculine cards (except for the sheet of pink ponies), something in short supply amid my collection of pink, ribbon, flowers, and lace!</div>
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This is dh's Valentine card for 2014. A colorful sheet of paper from the collection, a few stickers, a heart cut from one of the other pieces of paper, and a card was made! I thought it necessary to add glitter to the hearts on the pony, a bit of a time consuming task, but so worth it - a Valentine, even one for a guy, should at least have a spot of glitter don't you think?</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqybCWgnpWU/Uwpwrx7pFRI/AAAAAAAAA70/_aaLJaN9ygg/s1600/IMG_3028+picmonkey+watermark+1000px.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqybCWgnpWU/Uwpwrx7pFRI/AAAAAAAAA70/_aaLJaN9ygg/s1600/IMG_3028+picmonkey+watermark+1000px.jpg" height="512" width="640" /></a></div>
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And this pony can run! With a flick of his tail, he can gallop fast as any pony, with the attached wobbler on his back. </div>
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I added a computer generated sentiment inside to finish the Valentine; it's isn't a very original sentiment, but it captured the feeling I wished to create. </div>
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Dh took me to a stamp shop I like to visit on Valentine's Day while he worked on his laptop at a nearby coffee shop. In the early evening, we had a nice dinner out. A quiet day, a good day. We have discovered over the years Valentine's Day isn't about the big things you do together; it's the everyday little things. Honoring each other's time and interests. Saying "please" and "thank you." Celebrating the gift that is the love we share. Speaking love through actions.</div>
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Love to you, my love.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Materials:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cardstock: Neenah Solar White; Bazill Bling</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Glitz: Wild & Free 6" Paper Pad and Sticker Sheet</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hero Arts: Prisma Glitter and Gold Metallic Decor Gems</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Misc: Wobbler</span></div>
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Sallyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04687471811209703407noreply@blogger.com5