The Power of Positive Inkin'!

Long Time, No Blog!!

2010-10-24T11:14:00.003-04:00

Hello to anyone stopping by!
Just want to let you know I am going to get back to blogging...

So, here is a pic of me & my husband on our recent trip to Vegas. This is when we sent on a motorcycle trip to Death Valley National Park. We rented Harleys for 2 days while out there. Gorgeous... and HOT in D.V.!! Amazing beauty though.
Also while there I visited the AMAZING Viva LasVegasStamps store. WOW, is all I can say... got a few cute images, but didn't spend nearly enough time there... :o(

Well, I'll be back soon!

Hugs,

Cards For Matt

2010-07-06T09:12:00.003-04:00

Cards For Matt

I'm trying to organize a card campaign for Matt Brown, a 16 y/o hockey player from Norwood, MA.

Matt was paralyzed in a freak accident on the ice on January 23, 2010.

After many weeks of rehab at the Shepard Center in Atlanta, GA, Matt is now home and working hard to get well.

Cards and letters can be sent to Matt at the following address:

Matt Brown

c/o Ree Donnelly

email me for my address!

Here is a link to Matty's website to learn more about this young man.
I hope to generate as much exposure as possible for Matt. I am asking anyone who sees this to please post a link to my blog post. Thanks!!!
Hugs,

Congratulations, Chris!!!

2010-06-06T15:36:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, my baby boy graduated high school! It was an emotional day for me, since Chris is the baby of the family!! I love seeing all his friends grown up into beautiful young men & women, closing one chapter and beginning a new one! God bless them all...

Hugs,

Remembering Sammy

2010-05-21T14:49:00.004-04:00

Sadly, we had to say good-bye to our 14 year old Chocolate Lab, Sammy. We knew we were going to have to make the heart-wrenching decision to put him down, for his own sake. And we finally had to do it.

Rest in peace, my precious boy. We loved having you as our sweet dog... you were a part of our lives for so long, it's hard remembering life before you came to us. We'll see you again when the time is right. Good-bye, boy.... we'll love you forever.

Louise Hay | Experience Your Good Now! | Store

2010-05-19T08:58:00.001-04:00

Louise Hay | Experience Your Good Now! | Store

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Jettin' off to Virginia!

2010-04-29T10:34:00.002-04:00

I'm off to go visit my Mom in Virginia, for 2 and a half weeks!!! My sister & her husband are going on vaca, and I'm gonna be there with Mom to take care of her. I'll still be "here" though!

Love & hugs...

CPS #164 and CIC12 Challenges: A 2-fer!!

2010-04-26T17:12:00.007-04:00

You're A Classic!

I'm posting this for a CPS Challenge AND a CIC Challenge.

CPS #164 and CIC #12... heeeeere goes!!!

Click on the image to see it clearer...

I wish you could see the shiny windshield from the Crystal Effects, & the Stickles on the flames.. it looks sooo much better IRL...

Supplies used:

Cardstock: Taken w/Teal, Whisper White & Soft Sky, SU

Ink: Memento Tux Black

Stamps: Sentiment, CHF "You're A Classic set. Car, CD Stamps "Cruisin' Classic set. Flames, Fiskars clear stamps "Twist & Shout"

DP: DCWV "The Travel Stack"

Marker: Taken W/Teal, SU

Buttons: PTI, Hawaiian Shores

Mettallic Dots: JoAnn Craft Essentials

Stickles: "Mermaid"

Misc: Crystal Effects, SU

Hope you've enjoyed!

Hugs,

Cards For Matt

2010-04-20T09:57:00.003-04:00

Cards For Matt

I'm trying to organize a card campaign for Matt Brown, a 16 y/o hockey player from Norwood, MA.

Matt was paralyzed in a freak accident on the ice on January 23, 2010.

Here is a link to the original article in the Boston Globe.

Matt is now at the Shepard Center in Atlanta, GA for rehab.

Cards and letters can be sent to Matt at the following address:

Matt Brown

Room 425

Shephard Center

2020 Peachtree Road NW 

Atlanta, GA 30309

Here is a link to Matty's website to learn more about this young man.

I hope to generate as much exposure as possible for Matt. I am asking anyone who sees this to please post a link to my blog post. Thanks!!!

Hugs,

My Nestabilities Storage Solution

2010-04-08T09:50:00.009-04:00

Hey all, I thought I would share with you my storage solution for my Nesties. This works for me, and I'm happy with it.

Went to Staples Yesterday and got this Memorex CD File container. It's really nice; it's fabric covered, with a hinged top. This works like a mini file drawer, and the CD sleeves are like mini hanging file-folders! They're actually cute!

I cut a square of magnetic sheeting for each set to stay put within the pocket. It seems to be working great!

ETA: Some have asked where to get magnetic sheets. I've gotten them at both Staples and Michaels. If u can't find them just ask a store clerk, and they'll show you!

Click on any photo to see it clearer...

Let me know what you think!

Hugs,

Blog Candy Alert! HURRY!!

2010-04-05T12:06:00.004-04:00

Hey! Blog candy alert... but hurry! Ends today at 5 PM!! Check it out at Chris Olsen's blog Twinkles Glow With Stamps... good luck!

Hugs, Ree

User-Friendly Bow Easy Tutorial

2010-04-01T22:58:00.001-04:00

Hi All,

This particular "Bow Easy" tutorial video is very easy-to-follow, and user-friendly, in my opinion.... Check it out!

http://toyzhaven.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/2010/03/30/whats-the-secret/

Hugs,

Ree

Color Throwdown #86

2010-04-01T14:45:00.004-04:00

Daffodils!

Hi there! Here is my entry in the challenge over at Color Throwdown . The challenge was to use YoYo Yellow, Garden Green & Soft Suede...and boy, have there been some AMAZING entries! Go check 'em out!!

Recipe:
Stamps: Year of Flowers-Daffodils (PTI), Polka Dots (SU)
Paper: SU YoYo Yellow, Soft Suede, & Garden Green cardstock; Daffodil Daze DSP (Flair Designs, Inc.)
Ink: SU Soft Suede & Memento Tuxedo Black
Embellies: Kaiser rhinestones
Copic Markers

Hope you enjoyed this...

Hugs,

Remembering Your Mom

2010-03-31T09:19:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone!

I have a card here today that I created last night especially for our friends Lenny & Paula. Paula lost her Mom a few months ago, and Lenny just lost his Mom 2 weeks ago.
I am very happy with the way this came out!

I have been using these same Making Memories papers & ribbon for my last couple of cards... hope you aren't getting bored! :o)

Recipe:
Stamps: Not Forgotten (Gina K Designs),& "this Easter" is part of an Inky Antics stamp.
Paper: SU Soft Sky, Pink Pirouette & Making Memories "Flower Patch" DSP
Ribbon: Making Memories "Flower Patch"
Embellies: Making Memories butterfly, Kaiser rhinestones

Well, that's all for now! Have a great day...

Hugs,

Crazy 4 Challenges #C4C30

2010-03-27T13:38:00.005-04:00

Hey there!!

I'm taking part in the Crazy 4 Challenges' latest challenge, #C4C30.

Here's what I've come up with:

Recipe:
Stamps- Stained Glass Bunny, Inky Antics.
Paper- SU Barely Banana, Making Memories DSP "Flower Patch"
Ink- Memento Black
Copic Markers
Half pearls, not sure (old stash)
Ribbon- repurposed from packaging

Hope you likey!!! :o)

Hugs,

Blog Candy Alert!!!

2010-03-25T21:34:00.005-04:00

Hey Guys!!!

Blog candy alert at Kerin Sylvester's blog, "Stamps, Paper, Glitter"...
http://www.kerinstamps.com/stampin_with_kerin/

...check it out for a chance to win, and to see Kerin's fun, inspiring blog!

Hugs,

Help For Aria

2010-03-25T10:16:00.003-04:00

Hello!!

If you'll notice, down on the right-hand side bar of my blog, there is a badge "Aria Macdonald". This is a family with a very special little girl, Aria, who is going through an UNBELIEVABLE fight for her life.
Please click on the badge to visit their website, and learn all about the family's struggle with Aria's plight. Help if you can!

Hugs,

Have A Bloomin' Good Day!

2010-03-23T16:42:00.005-04:00

I hope you have!!!

I've been having fun playing with my new Pure Innocence stamps from My Favorite Things, and here's one of my cards...

These stamps are SOOO CUTE!!! I just love them. Hope you like what I've come up with...

Recipe:
Stamps: MFT Pure Innocence "Bloomin' Good Day"
Ink: Memento Black
Cardstock: SU Blush Blossom, Making Memories Flower Patch 6X6 paper pad.
Embellies: DCWV "Spring" Epoxy Brads, Kaiser pearls
Ribbon: Making Memories Flower Patch Trims
Markers: SU Barely Banana, various Copics, and Spica in Blossom.

Have a good night!

Hugs,

Spring Once Again...

2010-03-20T17:50:00.004-04:00

Hi, Peeps!

It's such a happy time of year, when the first warm days arrive! Here it is, the 1st day of Spring!
Today, we took our first Ride on the Harley, and it was wonderful. We also have a '63 Chevy Impala convertible, and took her out for a little jaunt today, too!

What kinds of fun did you have today?? I'd love to hear about it!!

Warm Springy Hugs,

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/mls_wizard2_1.php?sid=54488-112-22CBD3AB5AC01E91BB81DFD2B0C5FDCD#ixzz0il2DC4E8

So This Is Love...

2010-02-05T10:12:00.003-05:00

Hello All!
Today I am participating in my 2nd challenge! It is once again for Mercy's Tuesday Sketch Challenge, # MTSC59.
I need to apologize for the photography! Right now, it's the best I can do. I posted both so you could see from 2 different perspectives. The stickles didn't photograph well, unfortunately. IRL, they look much prettier!

Supplies used:
Paper: so this is love, Love Notes by O'Scrap; Love Fool DSP, American Crafts;Chocolate Chip CS, SU.
Ribbon: Melon Mambo polka-dot grosgrain, SU
Embellies: lips, Glass Effects, Heidi Grace; Chocolate Chip Corduroy Button, SU; Frosted Lace Stickles.

Thanks for visiting!!!

Hugs,

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/mls_wizard2_1.php?sid=54487-138-8483348863FCF8820141805AE0BE1B24#ixzz0efwXLuL0

Be Mine.....XOXO

2010-02-01T12:24:00.005-05:00

Here are a couple of cards I made from Mercy's Tuesday Sketch Challenge #58 (MTSC58).... yes, I realize that tomorrow is Tuesday again, so I'm a little late. But it's my first challenge participation EVER, so cut me some slack, LOL!!!
This is fun, new & exciting for me!

Stamps: Martini, Magenta;Heart Prints Sentiments, PTI.
Paper: Sending Love Specialty DSP, SU; Pretty In Pink, Real Red & Very Vanilla CS, all SU.
Ink: Real Red, Basic Black, SU.
Ribbon: Pretty In Pink 5/8" Satin Ribbon, SU;Red Essentials Ribbon, American Crafts.
Markers: Atyou Spica in Blosson & Red.
Embellies: Sending Love epoxy brads/Real Red, SU; Rain Dots hearts, Cloud 9 Designs; crocheted flower, my Mom Helen Scheier<3.
Tools: Eyelet border punch, SU; Small Oval punch, SU; Scalloped Rectangles dies, Spellbinders Nestabilities.

Hugs to all...

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/mls_wizard2_1.php?sid=54487-138-8483348863FCF8820141805AE0BE1B24#ixzz0eJ4wvc7k

Vegas, baby!!!!

2009-11-03T08:57:00.003-05:00

Yeah, leaving tomorrow EARLY morning for Las Vegas!! My husband & I have gone every year for the past 5 years or so. We go with the same group, and every year we rent Harley's for a day and go on a day-long ride. Weather forcast is looking good... in the 80's. AHHHHH.
I'll have some pics when I get back!

Hugs,

Happy Haunting Halloween!!!

2009-10-30T22:26:00.002-04:00

Here's wishing everyone a Hauntingly, Horrifically Happy HALLOWEEN!!!!

Whooo's doing what this Halloween nite?? As for us, we're staying PUT. My husband has been being treated for multiple basal cell carcinoma skin cancers on his face. This has been a series of applications of a strong cream applied over the past 4 weeks, and his face is basically raw. He is now beginning the healing process, but is still in much pain, stinging, itching & discomfort.

So, we're laying low and having another couple over to spend the night with. Our kids are older & are going out for the nite.

So, Happy Halloween, and stay safe!!!!

Hugs,

I'm Here in Virginia!!!

2009-10-20T19:43:00.004-04:00

Hey guys,
I'm here in Virginia and went to my FAVORITE stampin' store in VA: Angela's Happy Stamper in Reston, VA.
Everyime I visit my Mom here in VA, I go there, and I am NEVER dissapointed. This time was NO exception, either. In fact, it has gotten even BETTER since my last visit.

I had a ball, and I'm going back in a couple of days again. Hee!

While I've been gone, I found out that I won Blog Candy from Clear Dollar Stamps' designer, Laurie at her blog, Clearly Delightful . Cool, huh!?

I'm also having my latest PTI order shipped directly here.... can't wait!

TTYL,

Hugs, Ree

Going away for a few days...

2009-10-14T21:51:00.003-04:00

Hey peeps!
Just want to let everyone know I'll be going away for 12 days to Virginia. My 88 year old Mom is there, and my sister & bro-in-law live practically next door. They are going on vacation, so I'm going to keep an eye on Mom, and have a nice visit with her.
She has been in the hospital the past 6 days, due to yet another blockage in an artery. They busted the clot out, did a balloon angio and put in another stent. She should have come home over the past weekend, but she started to hemmorrage at the groin area (where they insert the cardio catheter). She ended up needing 2 pints of blood. But she seems to be holding her own, and is trying to recover.
I hope she is coming home, and not to Rehab, but we'll have to see.

Anyhoo, that's where I'll be... and I'll still have access to my computer & cell phone.

Love & hugs,

There's Always Next Year!!!

2009-10-12T08:04:00.002-04:00

Yeah, so sad to say the Red Sox are out of the race officially for the season. **heavy sigh**

But... next year we'll be back and lookin' good!!!

Pics from the Red Sox game...

2009-07-24T22:58:00.006-04:00

Hi!

I have a couple of cute pics of me & my friend Kate when we went to the Red Sox game a couple of weeks ago. I've been meaning to post them. Enjoy!

OK, the little face directly to the right and slightly above the R in "Nomar" in the red shirt... is me! LOL!

This is my buddy Kate with our beloved "Wally" the Green Monster! Below is myself with the big green fella!

We had a wonderful time, in Kate's husband's seats right behind home plate. Awesome!

Well, just wanted to share these before it got too late, LOL!

Have a great weekend!

Hugs,

Joey Kramer!

2009-07-23T17:29:00.003-04:00

Well, last night my friend Kathy & I went up to Barnes & Noble in Hingham, MA for a book-signing. It was for Joey Kramer's (drummer of Aerosmith) new memoir "Hit Hard". It was lots of fun, and we went out for a couple glasses of wine after.

I started the book today, and I'm really enjoying it...

Hope to have some cards up soon! I gotta find time to play with my new In Color shtuff!

Hugs,

Concerts & Celeb Sightings

2009-07-23T17:19:00.004-04:00

Hey all!
Well it's been a whirlwind of a past couple of days, let me tell ya!

I had a last minute opportunity that I grabbed right away, to go to see Willie Nelson, John Mellancamp & Bob Dylan at McCoy Stadium in Pawtucket, RI (home of the Paw Sox). We had a great time, here is a pic of me and my friend Heather & her husband Jim... that's me in the middle!

We saw James Montgomery at the bar before the concert.... matter of fact he passed a beer for me to my friend! I didn't know it was him till after!

We just had a blast.... sometimes last minute things turn out to be the best!!!

More later....

Hugs,

Hi All!!

2009-07-06T11:26:00.002-04:00

Hope everyone had a fantastic Fourth of July! We had the best weekend imaginable! Down at our cottage in Falmouth (Cape Cod), and we had a smallish party on the 4th. Perfect weather, perfect mix of people, perfect everything! aaaahhhh!

Tonight, I'm going to the Red Sox/Athletics game at Fenway! Super psyched! My friend's seats are right behind home plate. Life is good!!!

Hugs,

Psyched for a class tonite!!

2009-06-04T09:28:00.002-04:00

Hi All,
I'm psyched for a card class I'm taking at Heather's tonite! You might know Heather from her blog, Heather's Ink Pad. There's a link over on my sidebar...
We're making cards from some cool new stamps by Our Craft Lounge. Fun stuff!!

Hugs,

Ponderings Over the Kitchen Sink....

2009-05-20T22:44:00.001-04:00

Hi everyone,
Just thought I would share something with you, not very profound, but meaningful.

Recently I have been trying to notice little things, such as, when I am cleaning up the kitchen, and trying to rush thru it to GET IT DONE! So I can go onto something more fun, right??! You all know what I mean, we do it every day.

The other day, there I was cleaning up the kitchen.Well, it wasn't easy, but I tried to be fully in the moment, instead of looking ahead. I realized, and yes I know this is corny, but I realized what I had right then & there. Sure I was doing a mundane task that I don't enjoy. But I have a home, and even though I have to clean it, I'm glad I have it, and that I am able-bodied to do so.

Today, another thing happened as I was emptying the dishwasher, (another thing I like to just get it over with). Lately, I've been looking at all my mismatched glasses & coffee mugs lately, and thinking, ugh--these are just a mish-mash of crappy old things. I wish I had some nice new glasses and mugs, that all matched.

Well today I looked at them in a different way when I realized that they were pieces of who we are, and they all represented something. Like the big golden-yellow plastic Bruins cup: a reminder of some fun B's games... the tiny Guinness glass: when I won the Guinness basket at a raffle at a fun dance... the pair of Michael Collins Whiskey hi-ball glasses: from the wonderful Irish gift basket we've received every year at Christmas from one of Steve's vendors (we all get so excited when it comes!)... the Smuggler's Notch coffee mug: a souvenir from our friends' vacation one year... the pair of Montana coffee mugs: another friend's thoughtful souvenir from their trip... Red Sox cups and pretty blue-streaked wine glasses: also from gift baskets won at the countless hockey fundraisers over the years... a coffee mug from the lovely Brewster Inn in Cazenovia NY: reminds me of the wonderful year Laura spent as a student at Caz... a pink "All My Children" mug: Santa had magically left one for me & my BFF one Christmas!... a goblet from Apple Annie's in Orlando FL : an actual souvenir from our honeymoon!!!

Sappy? Maybe.

But the point is, we all really have a lot to be thankful for, if we only open our eyes to it. I challenge everyone to look at things from a different angle today, and see if you can't see the good in it!

Let me know your thoughts!!

Hugs,

Crazy day yesterday!

2009-05-03T19:25:00.003-04:00

Hi guys! Yesterday was a Crafter's Yard Sale at Bella Art in Johnston, RI, (my new favorite place!) I schlepped all my no-longer-wanted SU sets, and misc. items in the high hopes of selling some. Luckily the table only cost me ten bucks. Because.... as SOON as I got off the highway, and the store was within sight, less than a quarter of a mile away, I got pulled over by a RI State cop! I was apologetic, (he had also pulled over two other cars) and respectful. I sat and waited. He came back with my 95 DOLLAR TICKET, saying it really should have been 300 dollars. So I said thank you (BUT I REALLY DIDN'T MEAN IT!!!) I then started bawling, got to the store and set up. I "made" like 35 bucks, so I'm really only 60 dollars in the hole I guess, and hopefully I won't get a surcharge on my insurance. Maybe not, I'm hoping, since I have no prior speeding tix.
Sooo, not exactly a great day, but... afterward I just had to shop at Bella, and boy lemme tell you, they are an awesome store! (I spent 92$, LOL!) Oh, Lord, forgive me for I know not what I do!! So I guess it was retail therapy for me, huh? I got two new Nestie die sets, 3 stamps, and a new Tim Holts ruler... oh also some Kaiser rhinestones. Fun schtuff!

Have a wonderful night, I'm off to watch the Boston Bruins game 2 of the playoff series against the Carolina Hurricanes. BTW, my husband, & I, and our son & his friend were at game one! We won, and it was and awesome night, the arena was filled with energy... a great experience!!
GO BRUINS!!!

Class Tonite

2009-04-30T09:17:00.002-04:00

Hi All,
Tonite is my "Mothers Day/Feminine Cards" class. We'll be making 2 each of 5 different designs. I have six girls coming, and we'll have a good time, I am sure! TTYL!

INCREDIBLE Blogaversary Candy Alert!

2009-04-30T09:06:00.003-04:00

Incredible blog candy being offered by Debbie in the UK over at her blog "Passion For Crafts". When I say incredible I mean it! Like, 5 sets of Nestabilities dies,a set of 36 Copic Markers (!), Basic Grey papers, ribbon, flowers, OH MY! But it's only till midnight tonite, so get your lil' behind over there!!! And good luck! Let me know if you win!

Hugs,

My Package Has Arrived!

2009-04-27T09:36:00.003-04:00

Well, lemme tell you, I got the most fabulous package in the mail on Saturday! Yes! My blog candy from Chris at 'Scrappin' With A Porpoise' came & I was SUPER excited!!

OK, first of all a set of oval scallop NESTIE dies!! As if that weren't enough in itself, the box was brimming with other goodies: from Inque Boutique- the 'Always In Bloom' paper pack & a coorindinating ribbon assortment, their Felt Embellishments & Cardstock Stickers in both 'Cabana' and 'Memoirs' and a pack of Mini Felts in 'Isn't It Romantic'; from Creative Imaginations- a chipboard Gift Card Holder, from Club Stamp- a pack of matchboxes ready for embellishing, from Club Scrap- a pack of 'County Fair' 8 X 11 paper, and last but not least, from Colorbok- a pack of Folio Closures.
I cannot thank Chris enough. Except maybe to encourage everyone to go to her site, http://scrappinwithaporpoise.blogspot.com/2009/03/giving-away-blog-candy.html where you'll find the mailing address, and send her dear Mom a card. When you're not feeling well, receiving hugs in the mail are so uplifting. So, go ahead and help out a fellow blogger & make her Mom happy!

Have a great day & stay inky!!

Hugs,

Can you believe it? I won more blog candy!!

2009-04-21T22:09:00.003-04:00

OK, this is just amazing! I won more blog candy! This time, from Gina K Designs. It is Melanie Munchinger's newest set, "Wee Tees". Check it out here: http://blog.ginakdesigns.com/2009/04/19/preview-day-1-part-2.aspx

Did I mention how excited I am????!!!

BLOG CANDY ALERT!!!

2009-04-20T20:48:00.003-04:00

Blog Candy Alert!!
Bev's blog, "All The Things I Love", is quite an inspiring site, you must go check it out! And, Bev is giving away some amazing blog candy! Good luck, and enjoy her blog!!!
http://bevscrafts.blogspot.com/2009/04/some-blogoversary-candy.html

Hugs,

2009-04-15T15:36:00.001-04:00

OK, I wasn't real happy with the color of that signature, so here goes again!

Hugs,

My New Signature

2009-04-15T10:41:00.001-04:00

I just got myself a signature & I'm trying it out! Hope you like it!!

Another Blog Candy Alert!!!

2009-04-14T22:47:00.003-04:00

Hey, here is yet another Blog Candy Alert! Go to http://mycardz.wordpress.com/ and check out Mary's blog! She does some amazing work, and I'm inspired by it...

Happy Easter! And... I WON BLOG CANDY!!!!

2009-04-13T17:56:00.002-04:00

Hi! Hope everyone had a very Happy Easter. I just found out that I won the blog candy on Chris's "Scrappin With A Porpoise" blog!!
What did I win, you ask?????? Well..... I don't know yet!! Chris tells me it's a SURPRISE! The suspense is killing me, I hope you know!

As soon as I receive it... I will let you know!

Hugs, Ree

Blog Candy Alert!

2009-04-02T14:20:00.002-04:00

Blog Candy Alert... over at Scrappin with a Porpoise! Go check it out at http://scrappinwithaporpoise.blogspot.com/2009/03/giving-away-blog-candy.html . Chris's mom is going thru a tough time, and she's requesting cards of encouragement be sent to her. Mine's in the works!

Copic Certification

2009-04-01T11:25:00.003-04:00

I'm so excited! I am all registered for the Copic Certification class!! It's Saturday, May 17 at the Crop Shop in Rockland, MA. Can't wait!!!

Spring Fever...

2009-02-25T23:03:00.003-05:00

Hey, I don't know about you, but I'm getting ready for SPRING!!! Put out a Spring flag today, with bright yellow daffodils. I consider daffodils and forsythia a wonderful first sign of Spring.

I have a wonderful memory of this, when my daughters were 4 1/2 (Laura) and 3 (Meghan) way back 17 or 18 years ago!!! The girls were attending the same pre-school, and the Spring theme was very exciting and fun. One thing they were focusing on was "forsythia" bushes, which are everywhere here in New England in the Early Spring, such a welcome sight, with their bright yellow blossoms! The kids were making drawings of forsythia, using tiny scrunched up bits of bright yellow tissue paper as blossoms on the forsythia "branches" drawn on the paper. The word of the week was definitely "forsythia"!!!
Well, driving home one day after picking them up from school, we made a game of spotting forsythias along the way. When one of us saw a forsythia, we'd shout out "FORSYTHIA!!" :o)

After a few miles of this... Meghan says... and mind you, she had a lisp..." Jeeth, God made a lot of forsthythia!" translates to : "Jeez, God made a lot of forsythia!" LOL!

Needless to say, it's always been a fave memory of mine... maybe you had to be there, but it was funny at the time!

What a welcome sight these lovely yellow blossoms are, though, are they not??!

Happy 2009!

2009-01-18T21:56:00.003-05:00

Hello all!
Just want to say hi, and hope that 2009 brings a year of good health and happiness to you all.

I intend to join the blog world this year, with a new gusto!

I'm still here!

2008-11-23T22:15:00.002-05:00

Hi all, if anyone is listening...LOL!
I'm here but haven't gotten the computer fixed to the point where I can upload pics and stuff. So thanks for bearing with me!
So much fun going on here creating. I got Nesties for my b-day back in September, and have been using them on my SU Big Shot. After dealing with that hassle of putting in cardboard sheets and cardstock shims, and always having to tweak things, I broke down and ordered a Wizard, which will be delivered in the next couple of days. Spellbinders has assured me that the use of Nestabilities in the Wizard will be effortless, a breeze. I sure hope they are right!

Going back to Ol' Virginny!

2008-09-25T22:20:00.002-04:00

Hey all,
Yes the post says it all... I am going to Virginia. Yes, I know, I just came back! BUT my dear Mom is down there, and my sister & bro-in-law (who are normally there for her), are going on a long-planned trip to Rome, Italy for 2 weeks and I'm staying with Mom to take care of her/keep her company/take her to Dr's appts., etc!!! I am PSYCHED because I get to be with her and BOND with her even more, and just BE with her. Yep, I'm a lucky gal! :o) My mother is 87 y/o and I'm her baby, so I've been lucky to have LOTS of fun w/her over the years.
While I'm there in Ashburn, VA I hope to get together with a blog friend...... hope to see you Amy!!!!
Also, down in that area of Northern VA, is a great stamp shop called "Angela's Happy Stamper" in Reston, VA!
I visit Angela's every time I'm down at Mom's. It's a great shop, and friendly people!

Soooo, I'll be away from 9/28 till 10/18.... almost three whole weeks away from my husband and 16 y/o son!
I bet they'll be missing me as I'll surely be missing them. Whoever said "Absence makes the heart grow fonder" was very wise!
TTY soon!
Love, Marie

Amazing giveaway going on!!

2008-09-22T09:20:00.002-04:00

Carolyn King (Cammie) has started something of a "ripple effect" over on her blog. Go take a look-see.....http://myblogbycammie.blogspot.com/

She is giving away some amazing, and I do mean AMAZING blog candy! In honor of her grandmother, Cammie is paying tribute to the caregivers of Alzheimer's patients by getting as many people to send cards as possible to a caregiver you know, or to the home where her grandma was. This is just wonderful, so go on over an get involved!

Back from Virginia!

2008-09-20T17:23:00.003-04:00

Hey everybody!
Just got back from Virginia. We had my Dad's burial (of his ashes) at Arlington National Cemetery. It was such a moving service. I will always remember it. There was a 21 gun salute, and a sailor playing Taps on the bugle. The sailors who unfolded & folded the American Flag were awesome. It was just beautiful!

I'll be going back in just 8 days to stay with Mom while my sister & her husband go on their long-planned trip to Rome, Italy with several old & dear friends. I return to Middleboro on October 17.

Soooo. I'll post more then!

OOOPS, I forgot!!!

2008-09-08T21:54:00.002-04:00

Forgot to tell you the great news! I am able to walk in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer 2009 in Boston and have my donations carried over from last year, since the reason I couldn't do the 2008 Walk was a family emergency!!
It's a huge relief knowing that I don't have to worry about making my quota. BUT I still plan to solicit as much as I can for 2009. Maybe even more than the 2000 I raised in '08 !!!!!!
Woo Hoo!!!!

Long Time No See...

2008-09-08T21:18:00.002-04:00

Hello to All!
Well, so, so, so much has happened since my last post. It ended up that I was unable to walk in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer back in May, because my DH ended up having emergency sugery on his eye for a detached retina. If you don't already know, recovery for that surgery is 2 weeks FACE DOWN, 24/7. People who go thru that have to actually rent special medical equipment, similar to when you get a massage and your face rests on a u-shaped headrest. Thankfully, his eye was saved & he is fine.
But... backing up a bit. Before the Walk, I had committed to staying with my Mom & Dad in Virginia whilst my sister & her husband went on a much needed vaca to Captiva Island in Florida. While they were gone, things went pretty well, and normal. Then one day Mom (who is 87) woke up shivering uncontrollably and very weak and sick feeling.
I didn't know what else to do but call 911, since she was too weak to even walk out to the car. She was brought to the hospital and diagnosed with pneumonia, anemia, a UTI, and other things. She was in the right place, being in the hospital! Then, 2 days later my sis & bro-in-law came home. We spent the next couple of days visiting her @ the hosp., taking care of Dad (who was 95) at home, and just going back & forth like that.
Then the second day, when my sis & I were on our way home from the hosp., stopping @ the grocery store to get something for supper, we called Dad & got no answer. We were immediately worried, and called bro-in-law Roger to go check on him. (They are about 1/8 mile apart.)
We came home to find that Dad had fallen, and we called 911 AGAIN. He ended up breaking his hip, and underwent sugery.
Both Mom & Dad ended up in Rehab in the same room. After a few weeks, Mom came home. But not Dad. He tried hard, but couldn't get well.
Turns out, the screw they had put in his hip came loose. Poor guy was enduring all kinds of pain! He decided he wanted to try another surgery to fix the problem. Unfortunately, his blood pressure fluctuated wildly, and he was very unstable. That night my dear old Dad passed away. That was July 18th.
Since then, we've gone thru his wake & funeral. We came home & had my neice's (my brother's daughter) wedding on August 16th.
My brother's birthday Aug. 22, neices on Aug. 24th.
Then on Sept 1st, I turned 50, that weekend my middle daughter moved into her own apartment, then on the 4th....SHE turned 21!!!
On the 6th, was my Mom's birthday, and today, September 8th, my 16 year old son got his driver's liscence!!! Is there ENOUGH going on im my life??! LOL!
So, those are the reasons for being absent!
I have still been blurfing and learning so much... and LOVING it! I'm getting closer to when it's my turn! I hope to learn how to blog like the gals in the big league! LOL!!!!
Thanks for listening... I'll be back sooner this time, I promise!!

Walking For A Cure.....

2008-04-28T21:01:00.002-04:00

I'm training for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in Boston, MA on May 17 & 18, 2008. It's a two day walk, and we have the option of either 26 or 13 miles the first day, and 13 miles the second day. I am opting for 13 on day one, since I am a newbie, and I need to take it easy.
I'm a breast cancer survivor. I was diagnosed in September of 2001, detected by a momogram, with early stage two breast cancer in my left breast. I had a lumpectomy in October 2001 and began chemotherapy in December 2001. My treatment was half chemotherapy, then six weeks of radiation, then the second half of my chemotherapy. I ended treatment in May of 2002! Yeah!

Here it is, almost May 2008. I can hardly beleive it has been six years. I have promised myself that I would one day walk the Avon Walk, like my daughter Laura did in my honor in May of 2002, when I was just finishing up my treatment. Laura was just 16 at the time, and lied about her age so she could do it! Back then, the Avon Walk was a three-day walk, 20/20/20 for atotal of SIXTY miles! She did it, and I was so proud. I always vowed I would do the walk one day. When my friend Stacey announced she was doing it, that planted the seed for me to do it! I had reservations, but everything seems to be working out. The bonus is: I am getting the benefits of extra energy, peace of mind, and shedding excess pounds. Yes, everything the health magazines say is true... they are NOT making it up! It honest-to God feels good to walk and exercise!
OK, I admit it sounds cliche. But I swear.... there is a serenity that comes with walking. Go figure! LOL!

So, that's what's up with me these days....

And I'm trying to fit in stamping & creating somehow. After the Walk I can commit myself to it more....

Thanks to all my friends for your undying support. Don't know where I'd be without ya's. (that's Northern for y'all)!!!

Well, here I am...!

2008-04-15T10:25:00.000-04:00

Hi,
Well, here I am...! I've decided to jump on the ole' Blog Wagon and see if I can have a little fun. Hopefully, you will too! I'm a newbie, so please bear with me as I learn about posting photos and (maybe one day) videos. After a lot of blurfing, I decided to try it out for myself. So, together we'll see what happens!
Thanks for visiting, and come back to see how things progress!