Happy Tuesday Crafters!!

Happy Tuesday Crafters!!
I am in such great spirits this week!  My grandfather spent the past week down in Texas visiting, my lovely cousins Shelby and Erica both graduated highschool and my baby brother is home on leave for the next two weeks.  Things are going so great for me right now!

As you know last weekend I was at the Great American Scrapbook Convention in Arlington, TX.  Can I just say #1 I thought it was so cool how close we were to the stadium - could hear the Rangers games if you sat outside near the food court. :)  And #2 I got some really great deals on some really awesome product!  Now before I get into all the goodies I got let me preface this by saying if you are looking for brand spankin' new scrap stuff...this is not the convention for you.  Most of the shopping was 6 months to a year old.  That being said, there were still a fair amount of vendors that had new stuff.  On the flip side of that, the metroplex does not have much in the way of scrapbook stores so until it comes to Michaels or Hobby Lobby, it's still new to us...unless I want to shop online.  And believe me that did not stop me from buying up all the yummies!  (sorry Dave...I just couldn't help myself) *giggle*
So here are my top 5 purchases:

1. A 4 pack of Spellbinder Dies - Circles and Scalloped Circles (large and small) - $30! (for all 4 sets!!)
2. 6x6 Stella and Rose Pads - MME (I know it's an older collection but I love it so much!)
3. Vintage glass bird ornaments from Melissa Frances.  (Wait until you see what I do with them)
4. Mini Album Class Kit from SEI
5. Zipper Trim from Melissa Frances

Mom and I also took 7 different classes over the weekend.  Our first class, which I will share with you today, was a Shabby Chic card class taught by the fantabulous Melissa Frances herself!  

I thought about my friend Kristin the whole time I was there making such gorgeous cards - so wish you could have been there...but I picked up a present for you. :)  

After class we went to her booth where her daughter taught us how to make an 8 page mini album using 1 sheet of cardstock.  I haven't finished decorating it, but it turned out too cute!  I might do a tutorial on that...we'll see.  I'll be posting pics once it is done. :)

I also have a new tutorial over at Create with Jessi! Stop on over and check it out.

IWell I am off to do some crafting!  Come back soon to hear more about the convention and the classes I took.  

Until then, Happy Crafting, Happy Life!

Hugs!

Jessi

Food Trucks, New Jobs, and a Fun Card!

Hey Bloggers!
This update is coming much later than I had hoped - life around the Myers home is sure getting crazy!

Here's a peak of crafty goodness before we dive right in to the life stuff:

Head on over to my new Craft Tutorial Blog to learn more, and read/ watch how to make this card!

Let's start with the job front-
Two weeks ago I learned I would be getting promoted to a new department - new job, new everything.  Great...except you gotta be ready to go in 2 weeks.  Now, normally this would not be a problem, but work has been slamming for the past month and I was doing my best to keep my head above water.  Needless to say there were 2 weeks of long days, long stress filled nights, and not a whole lot of crafting going on.  Well, I am happy to report that last Friday was my last day - I will miss my team -I worked with some amazing people, but I was definitely ready for a change.  I walked out the door on Friday ready for a relaxing weekend filled with fun and no thoughts of work.   On Monday I walked in to a shiny new laptop and a whole new world  - it's really different, but I am working with some awesome people and I'm getting afresh perspective on things.  It's pretty cool so far.

Ok, now let's head home and check things out there -
What do you know about food trucks?  When you hear food truck do you think of roach coaches down by construction sites?  Believe it or not, there are some amazing gourmet food trucks out there!  About a month ago Dave and his friend Chris went out to a gathering of food trucks and had some amazing experiences.  Well I got lucky and there was a small gathering near us at The Village in Dallas.  We sampled yummies from Three Lions, Whoopie Pies from Rockstar Bakeshop, and Philly Cheesesteaks from another truck (sorry I don't recall the name).  It was all really good.  Now, Three Lions is a truck run by a British chap selling meat pies, sausage rolls and chicken and dill sliders.  My Hubs and friend had experienced the meat pie previously and told me of the epicness...I have to say it was amazing!  So good infact that we brought home an extra one for today.  It was just as delicious today!  The puffed pastry lost a little bit of crips, but was not soggy at all.  Great job guys!  The cheese steak was also delicious.  And we had a native of Philly with us..he approved. :) Now on to the Whoopie Pies - AH-MAY-ZIIIINNNNNNNNGGGGGGG!  That is all I can say!  Great flavors, fabulous textures....please sir, I want some more!!!  I can't wait to track these guys down again...will have to take pics for the scrapbook.

Last week my darling husband also celebrated a birthday!  He had a nice relaxing long weekend - played lots of Diablo III and we even made it out to Freddy's for chocolate brownie concrete.  What?  You don't know what that is?  Freddy's serves frozen custard -amazing btw - and concrete is the frozen custard mixed with treats - similar to the DQ Blizzard, but 10 times better, I think.  The food was good and the Concrete was amazing..can't wait to go back again.  We also upped our video game collection.  Yes, I contribute to a video game collection.  We collect vintage consoles and games.  My husband has almost turned me into a full fledged geek girl.  (Felicia Day and the greatness of The Guild are also partly responsible.)

Now onto the crafting!
With the stress of my old job behind me, and Dave happily immersed in Diablo III, I had the freedom to craft!  So I stalkedd some of my subs on YouTube and was inspired to create an awesome card! (Thanks StarofMay and Cardofmyeye!!)  So awesome infact that I made one for my boss for her birthday, and several more to send to Operation Write Home.  My box is about 1/2 full...got a long ways to go to get it filled up.  Wanna see the card?

Isn't it fabulous!  You can learn how to make it by heading over to my Craft Tutorial Blog: Create With Jessi. If you like it, let me know!  I'd love some feed back, ideas, things you'd like to learn more about, but don't want to try it yourself first.  I've here for you guys!

Well, it is late and I am getting sleep so I am off to bed now.
Happy Crafting and Happy Blessings!
Jessi

Long Needed Update....

Oh wow it has been 2 months since my last update... poor neglected blog.  Well lets catch up shall we?

I spent nearly the entire month of March working on wedding stuff for my brother in law and his now wife.  I did 12 centerpieces, 60 invitations 90 programs, 60 thank you cards and a 20 page album/ guestbook.  It was a lot of work but it was so worth it to help make Thomas and Jennifer's wedding day so special.  I learned alot about working with silk flowers and learned you can cut through 1 inch thick flower stems with a grinding attachment on your Dremel.  see ladies..your husband's power tools aren't just toys for him.    lol!  Also something good to know...Hobby Lobby has some great silk floral stems and you can find them on sale 50% off quite often, and foil gift bag shred makes great vase filler on the cheap.  it was soooo pretty!  Will post pics once I get the images from Jenn.

Wanna see the pages from her guest book?  Here you go!

After the kids got married Dave and I took a much needed Vacation and spent 4 days in lovely Las Vegas.  We didn't bring any money home but we had a really good time.  We went with a friend of ours, Lori, and had some fun adventures.  We saw "O" at The Bellagio, ate at some really good places like Emeril's and the Carnegie deli.  I had Matza Ball Soup for the very first time....so good!  We were only there 4 days but it was a really good escape.

On the crafting front I have kind of been at a stand still.  I designed a card last minute for a Paper Crafts call a few months ago...thought it was cute but it was a no go.  What do you think?

It was a little more graphic and clean than I have been doing lately but I really like the way it came out.
Supplies:
kraft card base - Hobby Lobby
patterned paper- Echo Park and My Minds Eye
chalk ink- Color Box
chipboard sticker- Echo Park

In other news, Dave and I have decided to take the next step into adulthood and we have decided to by a house.  Yay!  I am super excited.  I am so ready to be done with this apartment, and can not even wait until we have our own place.  Stay tuned for updates on the house hunting. :)

Well that is what's been going on with me.  How about y'all?
Happy Crafting!!

Because She's Going to the Chapel and She's Gonna Get Married...

So my BIL is engaged to the sweetest girl, Jennifer.  I have to say, growing up I always wanted sisters, and now I have 3!  Sweet Shannon who is married to my baby brother, Emily, who is married to Dave’s older brother, and now Jennifer, who will be marrying my husband’s baby brother.  I have spent quite a lot of time helping Jennifer and Thomas with their wedding – invitations, helping Jennifer find a dress, favors, labels, centerpieces, flowers, etc…it’s been a lot of fun, and I truly have enjoyed the time getting to know them both, but especially getting to know Jennifer.  She’s so nice, and I love that she’s included me in the planning process.  Their wedding is 48 days away and things are quickly falling into place.  Their wedding shower (a couples shower!) was yesterday.  Dave and I gave them a GC to use on whatever they want – even if it is for the wedding. And here’s the card I made for them:

 I also have been working on centerpieces and helping them decide on table décor – here’s the staging I did yesterday for them…they are going to look fabulous!!

 This week will be filled with shopping and hopefully more time spent on centerpieces.  I need 17 more bushes of roses from Hobby Lobby so I may be heading to every Hobby Lobby in DFW this week – yay!  Luckliy silks are on sale 50% off this week.  (if you’re in DFW are and reading this – please just save me some Red Roses. J )  I can’t wait to get them finished and checked off the list.


I've also been working on reorganizing my room.  This is still in progress, but here's what I've done so far:

 The Shoe bags on the doors actual house my punches.  The wicker unit is cards/ envelopes/ paper pads mini albums/ alterable items/ hardware/ flowers...working on getting them labeled.  The book shelf is all my empty albums from my days as a CM consultant - I'll use most of them.  :)  There is also a shelf just for 12x12 paper kits/ pads/ collections.  Yeah...I have way too much ( and I still find things I want...sheesh it's sick I tell ya!) In front of the book shelf are my wheeled totes - one is all wedding album stuff...one is finished pages and such I need to get in albums and hung on walls or pitched if I'm not going to do anything with them...

This side is my table (covered in wedding stuff right now), another book shelf with craft magazines, class instructions from Recollections, Completed albums, all of my books (as in my library that moved to the studio when I gave Dave the front room for an office), various bottles of Prima and Recollections flowers.   Then I have a wire rack holding my favorite projects - some created, some gifted...they are kinda piled up right now, but these are all the projects that inspire me the most!  Next to that I have my cardstock towers.  That's right -towers!  LOL!  One is 12x12 and one is 8.5x11.  I need to use them up so I can start storing patterns there too so I remember to use them.  Then I have my Alpha drawers with stamps/ ink/ tools/ tape and then my desk.  Once it's all done, I'll give you the for-real tour - perhaps a YouTube virtual tour??  We'll see if I get it done....

Well that's up for me right now.  Hope everyone is having a great week!

Happy Crafting!

Jessi

A Haunting good Time, and a Challenge!

Hi Bloggers!

My poor blog is really feeling neglected lately - Bad Jessi, Bad!  LIfe has just bee super busy - lots stuff at work, my Birthday month is in full swing, and we're having lots of fun at Paper Therapy.

First thing is first - lets post a new Challenge!

Paper Therapy Staff has agreed to move their challenges to once a month.  This will allow all players plenty of time to participate.  Starting this month, all challenges are posted to our challenge boards on the 10th of the month, projects due by the 8th of the next month.  This will allow the DT 1 day to vote for the winner.

This Month's Challenge?  Create a project based on the title of a song.  I created a card using the Song Title "Still the One" by Shania Twain.  Here's mine:

Supplies:

Patterned Paper - My Minds Eye

Ribbon - from Stash

Chipboard Letters - Pink Paisley

Embelishment - My Mind's Eye

Nesabilities Die

Foam Adhesive - Making Memories

Can't wait to see what you come up with.

Now, on to the Haunting.  If you know me at all, you know I am intrigued by the thought of hauntings and ghosts...not the garbage you see in horror films, but actual hauntings.  Last year Mom and I went to Jefferson Tx for the Ghost walk - fascinating stuff.  This year, to carry on the new tradition, we went to the Central Texas Paranormal Convention.  It was really interesting.  Small, not many vendors, but we did meet Dustin Paris formally from Ghost Hunters and Ghost Hunters International.  We heard a few speakers, and got to be part of an investigation at the Rosewood Recreation Center near downtown Austin.  It was fun, and I don't know if we caught anything....still reviewing pictures and listening to recordings...I'll let you know if we find anything. :)

While we were in Austin, Mom and I also found some new scrap stores.  We first went to Scrapology.  It was a cute little store filled with some delicious goodies.  I got some really cute papers to make cards with, some Smooch Paint, and some of the Magic of Oz paper to do my Wicked Pages from my Honeymoon a couple years ago.  Then we went to Archivers.  OMG....not since the days of Recollections have I ever seen anything so wonderful.  I was sad that I have to go the whole way to Austin to see it, but OMG.  This store was huge, had EVERYTHING I wanted and then some, and it was just....it was beautiful.  Made me a little sad because I miss my old store.  For those of you that don't know, I used to be a classroom coordinator and teacher at Recollections.  We were a LSS owned by a Big Box Store.  Well, after all the other LSS closed around us Michael's decided to pull the plug.  I was heart broken.  I had finally found my place in the world - I loved to meet people, I loved to teach, and I loved to watch other people develop as crafters.  They took that away from me, on my birthday no less.  We finally closed our doors Feb 2008.  I know it's silly, that was so long ago, but I still miss it.  Anyway, back to the shopping - While I was at Arhivers, I bought some MME 6x6 pads and matching embellishments, some Graphic45 goodies, a cute Jilly Bean Soup 6x6 pad and some Websters Pages Papers.   It was so hard not to just buy one of everything, but we did eventually stop shopping and headed back to our hotel.  What a fun store!  Saturday afternoon we went out and found Felicia's Scrapbooks.  It's a cute store, but we chose the weekend they did a scrappers garage sale to come for a visit.  Problem was, it's a tiny store, so they upset their own displays to make room for other peoples stuff.  I found a cute stamp set that I did end up getting, but I didn't really see much else I was interested in there.  It was still a nice trip.  

Now I'm off to spend the weekend with the hubs - it's my Birthday on Tuesday so we've got a full weekend.  Enjoy your weekend, and Happy Crafting!!

Paper Therapy Challenge - Sept 2011

Hi Bloggers! 

I'm back with lots of good stuff!

1st - the big winner in our Birthday Month Celebration was the Birthday girl herself - Kristin (Lil Sweetpea).  Congrats lady!!
If you were a winner this of any of our prizes in August, your boxes will go postal Monday, 9/12.

2nd - World Cardmaking is coming!!!  Oct 1, 2011 is World Cardmaking Day and the Paper Therapy Staff is planning and working to come up with something super fun for y'all -stay tuned!

3rd - Paper Therapy has a new challenge, and some changes to the Challenge.  Starting this month, Challenges will move to once a month. 

This month's challenge is all about Metal - brads, eyelets, foil, tinsel, book plates, anything.  If it's metal, we want to see it. 

Here is what I came up with:

Can't wait to see what y'all come up with.  Remember, you have until October 8th to complete this challenge.  Winners will be announced October 10th.

August Heat and Challenges

Hi Bloggers!

Man, is it HOT in Texas!  We went 40 days straight of 100+ temps and it has been miserable.  Luckily Mother Nature smiled on us today and it was only 97.  I know, 97 still sounds hot, but when you're looking at 110+ heat, you are glad for 97 degrees.

In other news Paper Therapy is having all sorts of fun!  This is Kristin's brithdya month and we are celebrating all month long with games, trivia, challenges and give aways.  Be sure to check us out!

Today also starts a new challenge.  Our Challenge to you - create a card that is not the standard A2 sized rectangle - make a shape or cascade card - whatever you do, have fun!
Here's mine:

I can't wait to see what you guys come up with!

Happy Crafting!

Jessi

A fun Challenge..and a late post....

Hi Bloggers!  I am so behind on blogging this week, but I have lots to tell you about....so lets get started:

First - Big time Congrats to Karen at Paper Therapy!!  You will be getting some yummy goodies in the mail soon....keep your eyes opened for Happy Mail!

Second - I have accepted a position as a Moderator on Paper Therapy.  I am very very excited!  Paper Therapy is really an awesome crafty site full of fun chalenges and super nice and talented people.  I don't know a whole lot about my new position or duties, but I will officially start on Monday, 8/1/2011 so I am looking forward to it.  I am sad to see Kimberly step down, but I know she is off to bigger and better things.  We puffy heart your Kimberly!!

Third: We have a new Challenge at Paper Therapy!
This week's challenge is a recipe challenge!!

Your project MUST contain:

1. 2 patterned papers
2. bling
3. distressing
4. ribbon or twine
5. the color blue

Your project can contain other elements, but it MUST contain these! Can't wait to see what you come up with!! Have your projects uploadedby August 3rd!
Here's Mine:

Ingredients:
Cardstock - Glamour -Bazzill
Patterned Papers - Mellow Collection by Basic Grey
Satin Ribbon - SU!

Bling and Flowers - Prima

Brown Ink - Quick Quotes

Well I think that is enough for today....I'll be back later to share more fun projects.

Have a great night!

Hugs!

Jessi

Happy Friday - with a Sketch....

Hi bloggers!  We finally made it to the weekend, and not soon enough!  This was a rough week and I am so glad  it's come to an end.  Now I am spending the weekend playing with my friends at Memory Lane Inn.  Yay!

Today also kick starts a new Challenge at Paper Therapy.  This challenge was to find a sketch at your favorite sketch site create a project based on that sketch.  My sketch comes from my favorite card sketch site:  Cardabilities.  See the sketch I chose here: http://cardabilities.blogspot.com/2011/05/may-15th-design-team-reveal.html

And here's my card:

Supplies:

Cappacino Card Stock - Paper Source

Crumb Cake Seam Binding - SU!
Pear Pizzazz Seam Binding - SU!

Paper Roses - Michaels

Green Flower Confetti - Michaels

Metal Clock Charm - Tim Holtz

Bling and pearls - Michaels

Journal Spot - My Mind's Eye

Head on over to Cardabilities and check them out...and stop by Paper Therapy and post a link to the challenge thread.  Winners will be entered in a drawing to win some fabulous goodies!

I can't wait to see what y'all do!

Happy Memorial Day!!

Happy Memorial Day Weekend Bloggers!

I am so grateful for all the sacrifices made every day by the men and women of the Armed Forces and their families.  Your courage and selflessness is greatly appreciated and do not go unnoticed!  While you are all out celebrating tomorrow, please take a moment to say a prayer for those lost, fighting, and enlisting...and their families.  they are responsible for making us the country we are today.

I also want to throw a big shout out today to my cousin Matthew (MAC).  He graduated from West Mesquite HS today and we could not be prouder of him.  I know he is going to grow up to do great things.

I also wanted to share the latest challenge from Paper Therapy.  This week's challenge was to create a project inspired by an ad.  You could be inspired by the design, by the colors, by the shapes...anything...as long as you were inspired.  The DT all got to choose their own ad's and they all did AMAZING jobs.  Here is mine:

I loved the translucentness of the pattern - the hockey goal and line and the blocked graphics.  I tried to recapture that in this yummy paper and die cuts from G45's Steampunk Debutante.  I also had the chance to use one of my yummy Iris's from Drew...thanks for my yummies!

Well I hope you all enjoy your extended weekend and take time to come play with us.

Happy Crafting!

Jessi

Vegas Baby!!!

Howdy Bloggers! I am coming to you from Beautiful Las Vegas, Nevada...Dave and I are on a MUCH needed vacation.  We've only been here 12 hours and  have already witnessed some pretty epic fails and some funny drugstore moments...but this is a family show so I'll save that for another day.

I wanted to share a super fun, new challenge from Paper Therapy.  This week the Desing Team was faced with a Color Challenge:
This week's challenge is a color challenge. The colors we'd like to see you use are Daffodil Delight (bright yellow), Melon Mambo (hot pink), Pacific Point (bright blue) and a neutral. Can't wait to see what you come up with!

Here's my take:

Supplies used:

Cardstock and Patterned Papers - Creative Memories

Flower Stickers - Sandy Lion

Yellow Floss - Michaels

Glitter Sentiment - We R Memory Keepers



I loved this card so much....I bought those flowers 3 years ago when Recollections went ot of business and I alwasy say "I want to save those for something special....." Well here it is!!  I have finally come out of my hoarding mentality.  I can't wait to see what y'all come up with!

Happy Crafting!!

Jessi Myers

Freaky Friday Challenge and other fun Ramblings

Hello Bloggers!  Today is Friday - TGIF!!!!

I feel like the past 2 weeks have been a complete blur - so much going on, and now it's already the weekend again!  Luckily I have no plans this weekend because I got some goodies in the mail...perhaps I'll do a haul video...we'll see.

Now today is also the 5th Friday of the month.  At Paper Therapy, this is now known as Freaky Friday!!  Freaky Friday brings an extra challenge and an extra prize!  Want to play...you know you gotta play to win...and you want to win this challenge...trust me!

Our very first challenge is to Scraplift or CASE a project created by one of our very talented Paper Therapy Members.  You can find inspiration in the Gallery, the Challenge Boards (including COTM and Mix It Up).  Once you pick your favorite project, post the original and give credit to the talented artist, and then post your rendition.
Mine comes from the Lovely Kristin!  I love her work and I'm trying to think more toward her design style...it's tougher than I thought...

Here is the original:

And here is mine:

Supplies Used:

Card Stock - Bazzill - Kraft

Patterned Paper - Graphic 45 - Steampunk Debutante

Ink: Clearsnap - Chestnut Roan

Ribbon: SU! - Seam binding in Crumb Cake

Stamps - Unity Stamp - Moxie Set

Flowers - Prima Classics

Now onto the Rambling bit....

How many of you watched the Royal Wedding this morning, or are making plans to watch after work off of the DVR, or this weekend?  I watched a lot of the coverage this morning (mostly because I could not get to sleep for the life of me.)  I have to admit, the week leading up I was like "Meh...it's just  a wedding..."  But as I watched the footage this morning, I found myself getting more and more into it.  I loved all the beautiful and unique hats, and the classy dresses...I'd like to move to London for a short spell and experience life across the pond.  My only concern is the high price of gas - I love my car and have a hard time doing without...tho I could adjust I'm sure. :)

I also want to give a big happy review to Blue Moon Scrapbooking.  I've been lurking on their YouTube channel for a while now and I bit the bullet and ordered from them because they seem to have all the new goodies that I want...and they offer free shipping on orders over $50 in the USA.  Sweet!  So, I got a GC at work and decided to give them a shot.  I placed my order on Thursday, 4/21/11.  I got my box Wednesday, 4/27...it is possible that it came in sooner since I didn't check the mail on Tuesday.  I was way impressed - with the Easter weekend and Good Friday and all, I assumed it would process Monday and be to me by Friday, Monday next at the latest...so good job Blue Moon!  They have lots of Prima and G45 and Basic Grey, Tim Holtz, 7 Gypsies...I could go on forever, but I won't...You'll just have to check them out for yourself!

TGIF and some Mother's Day Inspiration!

Happy Friday Bloggers!!

I am so excited for the weekend...this week has just been a blur, with no downtime at all.  I am looking forward to my day of rest. ;)   Just got a quick post this week - had to share a fun new Challenge from Paper Therapy:

In Honor of Mother's Day, create something for the special lady in your life.  Here's what I did...My MIL will LOVE this!  (I hope.)



Supplies:

Patterened Paper: Paper Salon

Lace - Making Memories
Pearls and Flowers: Prima

Die: Nestabilities

Embossing Folder: Cuttlbug
Ink: ClearSnap
Stickers: ScrapWorks

I hope you all have a fabulous Easter Weekend, do some creative and enjoy time with your families!!

Challenges and awards....

Happy Friday Bloggers,
This week starts a new DT term at Paper Therapy, and, as you can see, we are chaning things up a little bit.  Challenges will now be the 2nd and 4th Friday of every month.  Now you have 2 weeks to create something fun for each challenge, and we will draw a prize winnder at the end of each month.  So, with that, here is this month's first challenge:

Welcome to the first challenge with the new design team! With Easter fast approaching, we'd like you to use a basket on your project this week! It doesn't have to be an actual basket...just use that as your inspiration...the weaving maybe?? Have your projects uploaded here by Wednesday, April 20th at midnight! The winner of this week's challenge will be posted on Friday, April 22nd! Have fun! Can't wait to see what everyone comes up with!

Here's my take on the challenge:

I LOVE flowers...can you tell?  I also love this time of year - it reminds of  my days as a florist, and I loved creating arrangements in baskets for people's spring parties and Easter lunches.  This week's card is based on these memories.  Hope you enjoy it!!

Supplies used:
Mint Green cardstock - Paper Source
Brown Cardstock - Bazzill
Flowers - Creative Memories

I was also gifted a Blog award from my sweet friend Kimberly.  Thanks so much Kimberly for this honor...Love your blog and all the lovely projects you create, and I have truly enjoyed getting to know you on PT. :)  Wanna see some of Kimberly's awesome work, check her out: http://hellocutiecrafts.blogspot.com/

Upon receiving this award I must…
*Thank the person who gave this award to me and link back to their blog

*Share 8 things about myself

1. I love Bea Arthur and the Golden Girls.
2. Las Vegas is one of my happy places...can't wait to go in May. :)
3. I like Fruit and Maple Oatmeal at McDonalds.
4. I was born and raised in Texas, and will never live anywhere else.
5. I married my wonderful husband exactly 1week after my birthday.
6. I love Dallas Star Hockey!!!!!!!!!!
7. My Mom is my best friend.
8. My favorite movie is When Harry Met Sally.

*Pass this award to 8 other individuals that I have recently discovered
http://tanisharenee.blogspot.com/
http://branchoutdesigns.blogspot.com/
http://idreamcreateinspire.blogspot.com/
http://thinkingofinking.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/
http://thinkingofinking.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/
http://www.craftybearsden.blogspot.com/
http://nancywithajones.blogspot.com/
http://www.scrappyhappiness.com/

*Leave a comment so that they can pass along the recognition

I'm off work today and I am TOTALLY loving the day off.  I am redoing the scrap space..stay tuned for pictures.

Hope you all have a great weekend and I'll see you next week!!

Monday Challenges...

Happy Monday Bloggers!

Today I am reminded of how precious life is and of how important it is to love and to be loved.  You read more about that in a minute....

Today is Monday, which means new challenges at Paper Therapy!!  This week's challenge is a sketch:

I reversed the sketch and this is what I did:

Supplies:
Cardstock - Bazzill - Mulberry
Patterend Paper - DCWV - Once Upon a Time, Making Memories (Brown)
Flower - Prima
Ribbon - American Crafts
Ink - Clera Snap - Chestnut Roan Colorbox Chalk Ink
Sentiment - Expressions of Love -Creative Memories Vellum

This was a super fun sketch, and I really enjoyed creating such a romantic looking card.  I can't wait to see what you come up with!!

*********************************************************************

In other news, today I am saying goodbye to a really dear friend.  His name is Michael Bradley.  I've known him since I was in elementary school...he was one of my best friends...always there for me, even when I wasn't always there for him.  I regret not being there for him sometimes, but I am forever greatful for this past year - we've spent so much time together, talking, laughing, crying, and being real with each other.  I was blessed to become a part of his family and to help him enjoy the last year of his life.  On Tuesday, March 15, he lost his battle with Gastro Esophogeal cancer....He will be greatly missed.  I know he is not in pain anymore, and I know he's in heaven, watching over me, protecting me, like a gaurdian angel. Well, Mikey - I'll be singing your songs just like you asked me too...I big puffy heart you, and will never ever forget you or stop loving you.  To Mike's Family, I don't know if you will see this, but know that I love you so much, and I promise I will always be here for you if you ever want to talk or just want to cry...or to celebrate.  We did throw some awesome parties!  :)

My prayer for everyone, please hug your family and friends a little tighter, and please please please...tell them exactly how you feel.  It may be hard for you to say, it my be hard for you to hear....I was lucky enough that I got to hear from Mike exactly how he felt about me....I know he really needed to say it, and looking back, I really needed to hear it.  I will truly miss him more than words can ever express, but to know how much he loved me, it comforts my heart when I start to get sad.  I was blesed to be loved that much by not one, but 2 wonderful men.  I'm just sad we lost one so very young.  Rest in Peace sweet Mike and know that I love you so very very much...and I will see you again!

Love you!
Jessi Myers

Springing Forward...

Hello Bloggers and Happy Monday!

I hope you have all survivied the Spring Forward.  I know it was rough for us yesterday. As usual, the boys were over until way too late Saturday night, and Dave and I had to leave for Hockey by 12:30 to not be rushed....well, at 11:30 Dave mosied into the bedroom and snuggled down into bed claiming he was trying to wake me up...well, we both dosed off again and woke up at the very last minute.  We made it in time for the game, but we were later than I like to be.  Oh well, we still had a good time. :)

Well Monday brings a new week, and a new challenge at Paper Therapy.  I have to say, you guys really pulled out all the stops last week - there were some absolutely beautiful cards last week. Want to know who won?  Head over to Paper Therapy and find our for yourself. ;)

If you don't have these exact colors use the closest you have.  And here is my take on this weeks challenge!



Supplies Used:

Parakeet Cardstock - Bazill

White Cardstock - Recollectioins

Simply Beautiful Storybox - green, blue and brown patterns - Creative Memories

Title Stickers - Creative Memories

Chalk Ink - Brown - Creative Memories.

I can't wait to see what you all come up with this week!

This week also brings me a mass exodus of pre-made cards.  I boxed up over 50 cards to send to Operation Wrtie Home.  Do you have handmade cards in need of a good home?  Head over to OWH to check out the guidelines, and then send away!  This is a really great way to help our Heros overseas send their love and thoughts to their families back home.  They do so much for us...it's time to do something for them!

I hope you all have a wonderful week filled with love and fun...and some crafty time for you!

Happy Crafting!

Jessi

Monochromatic Monday!

Happy Monday! 
I can not believe we've made it through another week so quickly!  But, here we are, and it's Monday again.  Monday brings another challenge from Paper Therapy as well.

This week we challenge you to create a project using a Monochromatic theme. Here is my take on the challenge:



Supplies Used:

Purple Cardstock - American Crafts from Collection - color name unknown

Lavender Shimmer cardstock - From Stash - manufacturer unknown

Purple Patterened Paper - Creative Memories - Simply Beautiful

Embossing Folder - Cuttlebug

Pearl - Martha Stewart

Stickles - Ranger

This is also the first challenge of the month - the winner will get a fantastic stamp set from Unity Stamps as well as a set of handmade flowers, handmade by me!  I can't wait to see what you come up with, and wish you the best of luck!!

Happy Monday - Relief and Relaxation...

Happy Happy Monday!  Today I come to you after a wonderfully relaxing weekend.  I spent the whole weekend hanging out at home and working on paper flowers.  So much fun!

Today brings another challenge at Paper Therapy.  This week is another Sketch Challenge:

Here is my take on this week's challenge!

I can't wait to see what you come up with!  Remember, your projects are due by Saturday at Midnight.

TOday also brings some relief.  I took the Hubs to see an allergist because he has been suffering through what we thought were some of the worst allergic reactions to his surroundings. I hated to ask him to come to the store, we gave up all nut related products, banana flavored anything...quit going to WEndy's Chick FIl-a....and still we were baffeled because he was in a constant state of blotchy red itchiness.  Tody the Dr heped us find some answers.  Dave still  has allergy problems, but he said the constant state of itch is something called chronic urticaria, or chronic hives.  He gave us a list of medications to stay away from, things to do to help him find relief and gave him a treatment regimen.  Can i just say I am sooo glad we have a name for this condition and we know how to help him better.  Thank God for the Dr.  I'll keep you posted on his progress...

Have a great week all!

Jessi

A Perfect Romance...

Happy Monday Bloggers,

You would think with Valentine's Day behind us, I would be done talking about Romance....well, you would be wrong.  My parents celebrate their 31st Wedding Anniversary this week, and their's truly is a perfect romance!  I am inspired by how they have managed to keep the spark alive in their marriage all this time, and I have enjoyed watching it blossom and get more and more lovely every day as an adult.  They are truly a great example for their children - we both hope our marriages can be as wonderful as their's.  Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad!!

Today is also a new challenge at Paper Therapy this week.  This week is a techniwue challenge.  Use the negative space of a die cut on your card/ tag/ scrapbook layout/ altered project....the possiblities are endless!
Here's my take on this week's challenge:

Suuplies:

Cardstock: Paper Source (Michaels)

Patterned Paper - My Minds Eye

Die - Tim Hotz Tattered Florals

Jewels - Doodlebug - Tangerine

Ink - Clearsnap - Color Box - Chesnut Roan

Birthday Greeting -  Sentiments Stack from stach - vendor unkown

I can't wait to see what you all create!  Be sure to have your project posted by 2/26/2011 at 11:559pm.  Have a great week!!

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Happy Valentine's Day Bloggers!

As a former florist (for 7 years) this is truly one of my most favorite holidays....not just because I am a girl and I like all that mushy stuff, but I love all the beauty that is inspired by the holiday.  I got to create with some of the most lovely flowers, and I knew my creations would bring joy to somebody....or get some poor guy out of the dog house.  Once I came out of the floral business, I continued to be inspired by the beautiful crafty creations people create to show their loved ones how special they are.  Well, today is no exception even for me.  I have been making all sorts of beautiful cards, flowers, and boxes...started with my love bucket in the blog hope and I've shared some others in past postings and challenges.  Today I share with you a non-traditional, but sweet valentine - and my design for Paper Therapy's Monday Challenge:

This Week, Paper Therapy invites you to make a Valentine for your sweetheart...or for a good cause, like Operation Write Home!  Post your entry to our Challenge Forum for a shot at being this week's winner.

Supplies Used:
Cardstock - Bazzill - Lagoon
Patterned Paper - Daisy D's Valentine Paper -8x8 pad
Brad - Making Memories
Punch - Border and corner punch - Martha Stewart
White Floss - Michaels
Pink Chipboard Letters - Making Memories - Noteworthy


My latest paper obsession has also turned to making paper flowers.  I've been stalking videos on YouTube for a couple weeks now - man there are some really great videos out there.  Below are some of my favorites!

Made with pages from and old Thesaurus, Olive and Patina Glimmer Mist, Patina and Platinum Stickles and brads from my stash.  Don't you just love the vintage feel of these!

These are Spiral Roses made from scrap paper from my stash...LOVE how easy these are to make, and yet how sweet they look.

 These are created using  Scrap Paper, my 5 Petal Flower Punches and some creative uses for pens, paint brushes and water....so much fun!

I hope I've inspired you to create some fun and beautiful projects for yourself and those you love....and I hope you join us this week at Paper Therapy this week!

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Jessi