This time, it is about me

I don't usually do layouts only about myself, but recently, I have been rethinking how I am spending my time, and came to the realization that the balance in my life was a little off (anyone notice a blog hiatus)? I've decided to take the jump and do something about it.  Many people have thrown their two cents in about my decisions.  Those close to me all think this new direction is the right choice, and that it was a long time in coming. Those close to my work think I am making a mistake, and giving up a great opportunity.  Ultimately, I want to live more creatively, spend more time at home, and make things I love, especially for people I love. 

My Stache

Authentique is having a fun contest. Post your mustache. Here is mine.

Another card... Smile!

Who doesn't need a reminder that life is sweet sometimes.  I have been lucky to have people in my life to remind me that life is sweet. Sometimes, life doesn't always seem so lovely, and it is do easy to get bogged down in the things that are upsetting, depressing, or just uninspiring.  My biggest cheerleaders are my dear husband, my beautiful girls, and my very best friend, Heather.  Each of them have brightened a dark day for me at some point, and I am so grateful to all of them for helping me to see the bright side of things, and to remember to spend time working on things I love.  So, what makes your life sweet? What makes you smile?

Masculine Birthday card

For some reason masculine cards are a challenge for me. I liked how the green in this paper mixed with the floral. I also liked how the doily shape mirrored the pattern on the green paper.  Now, I  can imagine, "Doilies, Flowers?? That's masculine??"

Somehow this worked, despite the elements sounding frilly.  I think the simplicity of the card, dark elements, and use of geometric shapes made this a gender neutral card that worked well for the male recipient.

Sisters.

My sweet girls are best friends and have been since day one. I love how this photo captured their sweet faces.

They are certainly charachters, and incredibly different from each other.  My oldest is strong, clumsy, and joyful.  My youngest is delicate, graceful, and bent on ruling her world.  Somehow this odd pair has always had an incredible relationship.  About the only person my youngest bows to is my oldest, who she is happy to follow. 

Jillibean Soup

My dear friend Heather gave me some Jillybean Soup to play around with, and this adorable layout of my oldest is my first Jillibean creation!!!

I adored the fun floral prints and the clean colors of this collection. Can't wait to play more!!!

Another Look at ATCs.

I just adore how these ATCs turned out.  The hand drawn elements balanced well with the papers I selected and the inking.  The hardest part was not getting burnt out on 30!!! little hearts.  However, I enjoyed the challenge and loved the process.

What's a favorite project you've done?