A Special Birthday

Every birthday is special if it's yours, right? This card would've been even more special to the recipient if I'd mailed it on time. I did make it and write in it, and then I went on vacation. Actually I ran away from home alone to just chill out. Anyway, I didn't mail it until after the fact.
I call this one special because I don't do folds like this everyday. This is similar to the one one I made back when I was working for Hero Arts (which I'm not anymore by the way) and it was on their blog.  I wasn't required to write up directions for the blog and I did write directions when I did a similar one on this blog. This feels like one I should video tape the next time I make one.

There's so much to tell... But basically, I can't today. I have to pack up everything we need for the next month or so and try to pack the van before the movers get here. They will be here starting tomorrow!
After today, I'll have time to tell you about my trip to Chicago, my book, share more cards, show you some of the coloring I've been doing with the Copics. Oh my goodness... there's so much to tell.
Let me know if you're still reading this. I post so infrequently, I don't even know if anyone is reading anymore. I'm on Facebook all the time if you're interested in keeping up with me more often.  I do have plans to get going again (more often) with this blog once I get settled.

Pray for me today and over the next couple of days... Be blessed. and Choose JOY... it's definitely the choice to make.  I don't want the alternative.

Orchids Thank You!

I didn't remember until after 5pm yesterday that I even had a blog! I was soooo busy creating cards and making contacts, that I didn't think to post all day! I'm making cards for a contest over at Paper Crafts Magazine. I'm not normally a "contesty" type of person, but I'm excited about entering this one. I'm also working on stuff for my class at My Creative Classroom.

Remember the orchids my neighbor gave me when I was convalescing? Remember me mentioning this stamp? I'll have to be careful how I say things, because Juanita B. decided she was my fairy godmother and granted my wish! She frequently encourages me with her comments on this blog. I was floored by her generosity. This card was made for her.

Stamps: Potted Plant, Fantastic Flourishes, Small Greetings Stencil Prints (Hero Arts)
Ink: Colorbox Wisteria Fluid Chalk Ink and White pigment ink (Clearsnap)
Other: Color pencils, tag punches, ticket corner punch, twill
I don't know if you can see the texture on the white background, but the card is Bazzill cardstock.
Finished size 5 x 7.
Edited to Add: Color this way all the time so I assume you all know what I'm doing. I forget that sometimes new people visit. The images on these cards were stamped in white pigment ink and colored with Prismacolor pencils. Refer to the post called Coloring Solid Images on Dark paper . You can click this link or find it in the tutorials and tips section.

This second version was colored at the same time. I've decided to send this as an encouragement to someone out there in blog land. This is one of those cards where the front panel is folded back and the focus of the card is glued to that flap. I tried to take a picture of it from the side, hopefully you can see what I'm talking about.
Stamps: Potted Plant, Fantastic Flourishes, Small Greetings Stencil Prints (Hero Arts)
Ink: Brilliance Pearlescent Beige (Tsukeneko), White pigment ink (Clearsnap)
Other: Color pencils, ticket corner punch,

On a personal note: Someone asked me yesterday morning how was I doing since the surgery, so I thought it was time for an update.

I'm feeling better than I have in a couple years. I feel like I've healed up enough that I have no excuse when it comes to getting back in my exercise program. I can think of several actually, but, I'd be lying... Besides, the doctor has already given me her clearance.

I actually managed a short walk last night. The boys and I walked my neighbor home from the pool. Maneuvering that hill on the way back home really energized and inspired me. The plan is to walk this morning before it get's too hot. We'll see. Check with me. I'll tell you the truth... If I don't go, I'll be spending my time making up new excuses. (smile)

I'm looking forward to going to the Dermatologist next week and my headaches haven't been as bad this week. I'm going to see a doctor about that too. --Well, I have intentions to--I just haven't actually made the appointment yet. Other than that I'm blissfully happy in my role as a full time taxi driver and part time card maker.

Before I sign off and getting back to my taxi driving and card making, have you seen the new summer catalog for Hero Arts?
The stamps are BIG! I can't wait to play with them. As always, I'll let you know when you can see my work over there.

Have a blessed day! Choosing Joy, Jacki