tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29566615720715957152024-03-12T21:27:23.173-05:00Endures All Things: Move Mountains with LoveLive a life of purpose.Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-65964139046634152242013-06-06T15:44:00.002-05:002013-06-06T15:44:58.948-05:00Goals for Summer 2013I like to make goals. I also live by checklists and tend to have sticky notes and notebooks all over the place to cover my addiction to lists.<br />
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The lists can consume you but that is another post.<br />
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<i>Back to goals</i>. My husband and I created a few goals for 2013. I will share my goals for summer 2013.<br />
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*<b>Clean out the craft room</b>. Donate, sell, trash, get rid off. Enough is enough. If I have not used it then it has to go and disappear by the <strike>beginning of August</strike> end of July. I have already given away an embroidery machine (used 10 times in three/four years) and a sizzix bigshot with cartridges.<br />
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*<b>Clean out the garage</b>. Work on what needs to be sold in a local shop and remove the surplus. Most of what I have was given to me which for some reason makes it harder to get rid of than what I bought. That has to be some sort of sickness.<br />
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*<b>Add a new product</b> to my <a href="http://artfulrising.etsy.com/" target="_blank">etsy shop</a>. This means taking photos and creating the listings which I don't like to do but really? I think this can be managed.<br />
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<b>*Continue to work on my weight loss</b>. My five year old thinks that because I have gray hair it means I am about to go to heaven. Nothing like that kind of crying statement to make you realize that being overweight/fat is not healthy. I have lost 10 pounds. One of my doctors told me to get to a point where I was my healthiest and the weight can be easily maintained. Uhmmmm. Maybe another 10 pounds?<br />
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*<b>Turn my money into investments</b>. I looked back at what I made last year from my etsy shops and realized that most of that money was spent on more craft things (not related to the shops and which I am not getting rid of) and picking up junk food with the kids after school. I will be putting aside more money into savings so I can buy what I need to update the house and for a family vacation this fall. <br />
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<b>*Continue to work with the women's ministry at church</b>. It weighs so heavily on my heart that we don't see that many young women engaging in fellowship opportunities or giving back. It is so easy to just show up for a church service, leave, and then not make choices to be fully engaged in a faith FULL life. I will be facilitating a women's summer book club with a group of great women and pray that I stay out of the way and let God do His thing.<br />
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I could probably keep on going but don't want to be nitpicky. I have a lot to work on.<br />
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<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTION: What are some of your goals for the summer?</span>Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-76670814036158728822013-06-04T12:47:00.000-05:002013-06-04T12:47:10.345-05:00Perils for CatsA former feral kitty wisely chose to adopt us. The adventures of Harry Potter leads me to blog on a few dangers that cats face, namely rabies and pesticide. <br />
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In our neck of the woods there has been an outbreak of rabies -- <i>in cats</i>. The vet told me yesterday that as well intentioned as people are to feed ferals, when we leave out the food, we then invite wild animals like raccoons, skunks, and coyotes to come around. And spread rabies to our pets.<br />
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So, if you feed your pets outside or you feed ferals then keep an eye on the food/water and bring the bowls in (especially at night).<br />
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Unfortunately, for one stray on our street, she found out what happens when people spray insecticide or herbicide around the house. The cat was poisoned and actually exhibited rabies-like symptoms when a neighbor took her in. There is a warning label on these products you purchase from the store but be mindful even if you hire a company to come out. The dangers to pets actually apply to children as well.<br />
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Harry Potter is an outside cat and was bitten by another cat and had a really nasty wound on his tail. I knew he had his vaccinations but I was still worried. I took him to get checked, get antibiotics, and get his vaccinations updated. He is fine and back to his super loving, super crazy self. <br />
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<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTIONS: Have your pets had their vaccinations lately?</span>Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-52397977588270257452013-06-02T12:41:00.001-05:002013-06-02T12:41:23.120-05:00Lemonade Stand TreasuryIt was great to see one of my Little Andalucia patterns in this beautiful <a href="https://www.etsy.com/treasury/NTUwODkwNnwyNzI0NTAxMzM4/lemonade-stand" target="_blank">treasury</a> by Sarah Beth of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/MagnoliaSurprise" target="_blank">Magnolia Surprise</a>. The pinks and yellows are soft, pretty, and perfect for these sunny days.The kids are asking us to take them to the beach and these colors make me forget about the soon to be 100+ degrees we will soon be experiencing.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/treasury/NTUwODkwNnwyNzI0NTAxMzM4/lemonade-stand" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJswY8e7ttsPT_ZKRg0wk3i9hzq8avXCYqnrKm7stk5k1VZOlADx2P6upI7JO6dX_SqWl1DzvWW7MMBkZU-Pnn51eXzB7zuAv5nt8N88zEM5CBR1UoGCemlYHUDYZgobjyLiAj77mOO-vC/s1600/treasury.jpg" height="318" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">QUESTION: What are you doing to relax this summer?</span>Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-85164725021479305092013-05-10T04:52:00.000-05:002013-05-10T04:52:24.052-05:00Disturbing Harry PotterHarry Potter is a former "feral" that adopted our family. Never mind the fact that I am allergic to cats; he decided that our house was his house.<br />
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And he runs inside every chance he gets. And makes himself at home. On my daughter's blanket I made for her a couple of years ago. <i>In my house</i>.<br />
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Yes, Harry, I am taking pictures of you while you slumber. And being cute does not change the fact that you are on the sofa and on a blanket.</div>
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Are you talking to me?</div>
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Maybe if I stretch I can shut that thing off. </div>
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Umpf. Just one example of a conversation between Harry Potter and me. One guess as to who normally wins.</div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">QUESTION: How do your conversations go with your furry friends?</span></div>
Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-77281247860910491772013-04-12T05:30:00.000-05:002013-04-12T05:30:02.209-05:00A Time for RenewalThe BBA's <a href="http://bloggingbusinessartisans.blogspot.com/2013/04/april-team-challenge-renewal.html" target="_blank">Monthly Challenge for April</a> is to create something that signifies renewal. As we have just celebrated Easter I decided to focus on what renewal means to me right now. I took an old cabinet door and repurposed it to carry a message which reminds me of renewal.<br />
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Renewal is to be made new or fresh. There can be a time of renewal after a time of upheaval or unpleasantness.<br />
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I think of the spring bulbs growing outside our window--they lie dormant for a year, when the conditions are right they burst forth with vigor and beauty, and then they seem to wither and die.<br />
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Only they are preparing for the coming Texas heat and winter to burst forth once more next Spring.<br />
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Renewal.<br />
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When I think I can't do it alone or I don't deserve it then I am reminded that I am worthy of so much more. That I am worthy of the growth that comes after a dark spell. I am reminded that I am not alone.<br />
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And I am grateful for the time of renewal.<br />
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Thanks to <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/SplendidLittleStars" target="_blank">Splendid Little Stars</a> for creating this great challenge!Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-10190842602224770752013-04-09T05:30:00.000-05:002013-04-09T05:30:01.430-05:00Transform It: Thrift Store ChairI like a savings and a challenge and this Transform It was a challenge. I took a thrift store chair covered in what looked like bad red burlap into something less office looking.<br />
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I have never recovered a chair where it involved the back of the chair. I have recovered dining room seats which is definitely not the same thing as what I learned with this project. Which was the point. I wanted to walk away having learned a thing or two -- more than how to not get my finger scratched by sharp staples.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>BEFORE</b>--not sure why my picture wants to be sideways but whatever</td></tr>
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Learning along the way.... <br />
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After removing the fabric, I sanded and painted the wood. I then distressed it (to my parents dismay) and then used a printed cotton to cover the back and cushion. I added a fun black trim just because I liked it:)<br />
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I added the chair to the booth and it has already sold!<br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">QUESTION: What new technique have you tried lately?</span>Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-24167811310582355892013-04-02T05:29:00.000-05:002013-04-02T05:29:23.615-05:00Transform It: Coffee TableI held my own at a garage sale with a pretty older woman that wanted the coffee table that I was resting my purse on. She actually thought my standing next to the table with my leg against and my purse on it was not enough of a claim.<br />
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The fun tug-o-war at garage sales had begun. (And this would turn out to be my first battle of the day).<br />
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She asked me the price. I told her and that I was getting it.<br />
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She waited until I picked it up before the recognition hit her eyes that the table was indeed mine.<br />
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At least she told me with a smile that I was getting a really great table.<br />
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<span style="color: #76a5af;">BEFORE</span><br />
The table was scuffed and had glass stains on the top as well as marker (?) on one of the legs. I did not notice the top had a checkerboard pattern until I got it home and began sanding it.<br />
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<span style="color: #45818e;">AFTER</span><br />
A bit of sanding, paint, and stain transformed this coffee table into a pretty piece. My daughter declared it was for a princess. (forgive the mess on the floor--I swept and forgot to pick it up!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZN52VkFcuxyoKudCzN_NjxKb027o4RW0TVuNCbTYf-_8tLaZurEMEKaJaSs8sgA0qKfDfceKSzC1On9HK2FTZA4o6B3s-0eLKLgC7OUeZFiP01E55iUZlm2cnz-CIym7cp_tYl1WWc_N0/s1600/checkerboard+coffee+table+after+smaller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZN52VkFcuxyoKudCzN_NjxKb027o4RW0TVuNCbTYf-_8tLaZurEMEKaJaSs8sgA0qKfDfceKSzC1On9HK2FTZA4o6B3s-0eLKLgC7OUeZFiP01E55iUZlm2cnz-CIym7cp_tYl1WWc_N0/s1600/checkerboard+coffee+table+after+smaller.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And fit for a bit of tea.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGI8O7IIYqunJhK9I8iJRA2R4MqWQ_pTNSCt5_kH6G1qT90SIG7XaoZSeFWTHuJl6k-sGuFQsdoLQd-GD7aOWwqHWXS8iWy5ThjlY9ePyXRlQuM7a8baExpacwgmKw-282ymrv-08rlXS-/s1600/checkerboard+coffee+table+after2+smaller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGI8O7IIYqunJhK9I8iJRA2R4MqWQ_pTNSCt5_kH6G1qT90SIG7XaoZSeFWTHuJl6k-sGuFQsdoLQd-GD7aOWwqHWXS8iWy5ThjlY9ePyXRlQuM7a8baExpacwgmKw-282ymrv-08rlXS-/s1600/checkerboard+coffee+table+after2+smaller.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
This coffee table will be heading to the shop for sale!<br />
<br />
<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTION: What have you transformed lately?</span>Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-71813189729552554132013-03-19T05:30:00.000-05:002013-03-19T05:30:00.397-05:00Expanding My Business (with shaky hands)You may dream of finding your products in a store. (<i>Not in a thrift store</i>). And when several businesses asked me 1). to create journals for them and then, 2). have another ask me about my art the fear began to melt.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3wpZEsjKNUv7xMp7yrQud7jnRBbAOha0BhK3h7WZSYPxpQmDQ3QVf_UjAu5P-EjPc3JiT_hTd7KjGQyP6FdjFeecH67DHOVIs2QvdGoIpsVkPSezTD302XuYIuWVFGeFb8IpPlPKTLtkj/s1600/soar+dream+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3wpZEsjKNUv7xMp7yrQud7jnRBbAOha0BhK3h7WZSYPxpQmDQ3QVf_UjAu5P-EjPc3JiT_hTd7KjGQyP6FdjFeecH67DHOVIs2QvdGoIpsVkPSezTD302XuYIuWVFGeFb8IpPlPKTLtkj/s1600/soar+dream+1.jpg" height="320" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">canvas by Artful Rising (Erika)</td></tr>
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I signed up yesterday to rent out a space in a shop.<br />
<br />
Me. And my wares.<br />
<br />
Well, okay, I won't be on sale but the things I create and place in my space will be for sale. For many people to touch and potentially walk up to the counter and purchase.<br />
<br />
Sigh.<br />
<br />
Some of you may not know that I have been working with tools since I was a little girl. My dad builds furniture, rooms, and anything he feels like for fun and I paid attention. So now, I am using my teensy skills to rework furniture and build signs and what ever floats my boat.<br />
<br />
All because I opened an etsy shop and took a chance way back when.<br />
<br />
Funny how little things begin to grow.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTION: What little thing will you work on today?</span>Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-62842689541672838262013-03-14T09:19:00.001-05:002013-03-14T09:19:35.063-05:00Love Matters MostI put my vulnerability out in a gift shop. I took a step this week when I dropped off my creations that I knew would not be everyone's cup of tea. It is different than selling online because your friends, family, and coworkers get to see in person, up close and personal, a part of you that may come out during the creative process. And they can't hide their feelings on your work.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHtu2xdD2JYc6gGkqPxYrDDqYUdF0KcpPcmMHOUoBK6M2wXP1SR4fGShHpXr2_tUgGIEBYCSq1gfWe-QEQlwXtSnforY6HvjpuGrd8KBuNS1Cx0RWQfWUm5NdR8L1OxaR1TAuK_led-CUn/s1600/love+matters+most.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHtu2xdD2JYc6gGkqPxYrDDqYUdF0KcpPcmMHOUoBK6M2wXP1SR4fGShHpXr2_tUgGIEBYCSq1gfWe-QEQlwXtSnforY6HvjpuGrd8KBuNS1Cx0RWQfWUm5NdR8L1OxaR1TAuK_led-CUn/s1600/love+matters+most.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">part of an art piece I created</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Yesterday, a friend said that three to four of the items I created were sold.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was a reminder that it is important to love ourselves and to believe in our dreams. Even when others may not get it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love yourself.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTION: How have you stepped out and taken a chance? </span></div>
<br />
<br />Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-26837387936549776252013-03-07T06:06:00.000-06:002013-03-07T06:06:00.141-06:00Branding for a Gift ShopI was asked to sell my art in a gift shop recently and in preparation for this milestone I have a branding headache. My table is covered with tag ideas, print outs, labels, notes, and generally a mess. Do I want to add my etsy address? What colors do I want? Do I want to add my name or stick to my shop name? And how will I package my magnets, lamps, and other decor that I will be adding in the future? How much space do I give for the store's inventory number and price?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb0A1sgafH0MuByGs00Kky-EhxB6w8DbJaw3-qMKZVoqlYmaIq44d9b45I2YPFeOW3I2hltk88QR33zCqAlP7kcf6bBskfSLnw4mMBbVf4OX8ygfQBaW5X8BI0rgRkCrJWP2GSmBSwN14n/s1600/tags2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb0A1sgafH0MuByGs00Kky-EhxB6w8DbJaw3-qMKZVoqlYmaIq44d9b45I2YPFeOW3I2hltk88QR33zCqAlP7kcf6bBskfSLnw4mMBbVf4OX8ygfQBaW5X8BI0rgRkCrJWP2GSmBSwN14n/s1600/tags2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PinkCandiCrafts?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Pink Candi Crafts</a></td></tr>
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Forget about this<a href="http://www.nfallondesignstudio.com/2013/03/what-ive-been-up-to-lately.html" target="_blank"> self-declared mess (not!) while wrapping gifts</a>, I have a mountainous mess in the dining room, the craft room, and the garage. Both my dad and my husband told me that I need a dedicated workshop in the backyard somewhere.<br />
<br />
Away from the house apparently.<br />
<br />
Wonder what they are trying to say.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Mf_lDSU8ytTw4uxXvP8DIr577aZ65wKp7aj7Ti6s7UEPlmffEib0jY86fSTd4z0kn1kNoXZrlOFMz9XGCTpQ8xZJzKknBVgfcd2SUX5wt_06pYmSeR6rJVf37ltoKPDpnXCaxDOkyegZ/s1600/tags3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Mf_lDSU8ytTw4uxXvP8DIr577aZ65wKp7aj7Ti6s7UEPlmffEib0jY86fSTd4z0kn1kNoXZrlOFMz9XGCTpQ8xZJzKknBVgfcd2SUX5wt_06pYmSeR6rJVf37ltoKPDpnXCaxDOkyegZ/s1600/tags3.jpg" height="236" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PrettyStationeryShop?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Pretty Stationery Shop</a></td></tr>
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These are things I have learned during this process:<br />
1. stick to what feels right for your "brand"/name/art/vision<br />
2. make the tags/packaging something you will want to look at for a length of time<br />
3. make sure others can read the pertinent information<br />
4. do you want to tell a story with the description<br />
5. think about pricing before someone comes knocking at your door!!!<br />
6. will the tags/packaging flow from one product to another<br />
<br />
<span style="color: purple;">QUESTION: What have you learned about packaging (either from your own shop or as a customer)?</span>Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-26965059594728265582013-03-04T06:00:00.000-06:002013-03-04T06:00:00.710-06:00March Challenge -- Tinted GlassThe <a href="http://bloggingbusinessartisans.blogspot.com/2013/03/march-team-challenge.html" target="_blank">March Challenge for the BBA</a> is to explore tint. I am in the process of finding new ways to reuse old objects in my home and this was the perfect opportunity. I tinted old canning jars in my favorite soft shades.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhsysf8SryT3ESPrYb9KmLRJ-gFJm8Nl3oVmk4QY01ijLeshfrBNx5APDElQY5h0iTmpQIh3KoX4aDSc0eojvIwbUF4HB3qnnFBAudnnJDxZp4Tk_am6jK_EuO8CLI1ttQ1UVKFsC3Rw7/s1600/tinted+jars2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhsysf8SryT3ESPrYb9KmLRJ-gFJm8Nl3oVmk4QY01ijLeshfrBNx5APDElQY5h0iTmpQIh3KoX4aDSc0eojvIwbUF4HB3qnnFBAudnnJDxZp4Tk_am6jK_EuO8CLI1ttQ1UVKFsC3Rw7/s1600/tinted+jars2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I love hydrangea but can only get the fake ones to survive in my home. Sigh. Can't you just see the (real) blooms in these pretty containers? The jars actually remind me of the glasses we would drink out of at my grandpa's house after a day at the beach. Funny how repurposing things can bring back good memories. I even called mom to talk to her about them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqReTT7MajXN2Czl4agr0UhLP8FSnxiTlFZqFX2DuPKoRKZzwxZx5Sddws2Z5vJim9qMnLoBhSByQNRmttd1uq9h-EmI6IxJiH0qynys4RVA85Da_FLP82wJwaVNmo88DYyxCzPvbd3f3-/s1600/tinted+jars1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqReTT7MajXN2Czl4agr0UhLP8FSnxiTlFZqFX2DuPKoRKZzwxZx5Sddws2Z5vJim9qMnLoBhSByQNRmttd1uq9h-EmI6IxJiH0qynys4RVA85Da_FLP82wJwaVNmo88DYyxCzPvbd3f3-/s1600/tinted+jars1.jpg" height="319" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc;">QUESTION: What have you repurposed lately?</span>Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-88373897541377300792013-03-01T10:25:00.000-06:002013-03-01T10:25:06.458-06:00Letting GoHello, again. I have been away from my blog for a while. I have been dealing with health issues and working at a local school. The health stuff took up my free time but I have been diligently following doctors' orders and feeling better. I have slowly begun visiting favorite blogs and sites and it feels good to chat.<br />
<br />
I was asked to speak at a women's event on the subject of letting go this past weekend. Letting go of the labels we put on ourselves or others put on us as women, letting go of the negativity, and the idea that brokenness keeps us in a pit--it made for a great event.<br />
<br />
It was great to share and meet with women; to see them look at this piece and know they are unique and special with their gifts. And brokenness.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq5VhJWa_IZ_1W_KWm00gi-oQQNlUSSwGc6dyKc82GkAUPIt7cF5wzTwO1d9LVmDbSPwmDWdpUVLMu-pmnksMcrNsV68LxGR55Y9I-3A_Ku9Lpp4_pH1-IJHLGK0-AFjAmnrBNebIMhokK/s1600/you+are+unique2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq5VhJWa_IZ_1W_KWm00gi-oQQNlUSSwGc6dyKc82GkAUPIt7cF5wzTwO1d9LVmDbSPwmDWdpUVLMu-pmnksMcrNsV68LxGR55Y9I-3A_Ku9Lpp4_pH1-IJHLGK0-AFjAmnrBNebIMhokK/s1600/you+are+unique2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Art by Erika R., Artful Rising</td></tr>
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The canvas is my daughter's current favorite piece. She is too young to understand the meaning but she gets the importance of the crown, the jewels, and feeling beautiful.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTION: What do you need to let go of this year?</span>Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-90100236882943953102012-09-04T05:22:00.000-05:002012-09-04T05:22:20.173-05:00A Child's Idea of a TacoMy four year old fancies himself to be a "cooker". He takes this role seriously. One day, he explained that he had a new way of making a taco.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkcERE1_YrHKOsF3STef20JU41oarAct2vuTf32CNSRqTvW8JihwoEIFQ4UJhwp3K5LrAqPp9RJri-LT6qJnbWjXWuyFni9Xu6P16cgJqCnDY-yI2OUp1x_24QozetA1uDsDnJQ47jVz0a/s1600/August+A%27s+idea+of+a+taco.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkcERE1_YrHKOsF3STef20JU41oarAct2vuTf32CNSRqTvW8JihwoEIFQ4UJhwp3K5LrAqPp9RJri-LT6qJnbWjXWuyFni9Xu6P16cgJqCnDY-yI2OUp1x_24QozetA1uDsDnJQ47jVz0a/s320/August+A%27s+idea+of+a+taco.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a 4yro's idea of a taco</td></tr>
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He used a slice of deli colby jack cheese, pieces of steak, lettuce, and cherry tomatoes and topped them with a dollup of ranch dressing.<br />
<br />
It is not the way I choose to eat steak but his hit flew right into his picky mouth;)<br />
<br />
<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTION:</span> What is your favorite food?<br />
<br />Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-5597391506827923842012-08-28T05:47:00.002-05:002012-08-28T05:47:28.719-05:00Back to School Monthly ChallengeThe BBA <a href="http://bloggingbusinessartisans.blogspot.com/2012/08/back-to-school-monthly-challenge.html" target="_blank">Monthly Challenge is all about Back to School</a> for August. Since I have been creating and organizing my new office (went back to work after six years!) I decided to use those for my challenge entry.<br />
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A new bulletin board... the one I inherited was black and white zebra print and it was hard for my eyes to focus on the forms I needed to read when answering parent/customer questions. I created the banner and the note holder first, then decided on the background fabric. It looks wrinkled in the photo but it looks better hanging up now.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpsXRdwobj7WdonPg_UiSw0591EUDUxsElrKe42c-lPpQsciDOdxQW6RwompAI7aC0tR2YI8AkmCuzLvzMdPg6Yr_PLr4-AYvLXB5cLgMovS8Qexjd-OybPhoYRydljAw90JQyo8VhB1WU/s1600/note+tag+bulletin+board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpsXRdwobj7WdonPg_UiSw0591EUDUxsElrKe42c-lPpQsciDOdxQW6RwompAI7aC0tR2YI8AkmCuzLvzMdPg6Yr_PLr4-AYvLXB5cLgMovS8Qexjd-OybPhoYRydljAw90JQyo8VhB1WU/s320/note+tag+bulletin+board.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">on the ground waiting to be put up...</td></tr>
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Trying to get a photo in the office....For some reason this wants to upload sideways in blogger.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOWUFrPLuLrZQVtM5LC2oTu0Y7yDKqT3vOBvx-YSTCNZzXcshSTmq6_DMyUjasMp_4lFyT02W9Lc2_RIDiF-oe_Ti0rJ-UIPUXLAZwW3yQHmbNdptSWCTj-udtE3UY2b5BFD3rB1Vi-mMJ/s1600/love+banner+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOWUFrPLuLrZQVtM5LC2oTu0Y7yDKqT3vOBvx-YSTCNZzXcshSTmq6_DMyUjasMp_4lFyT02W9Lc2_RIDiF-oe_Ti0rJ-UIPUXLAZwW3yQHmbNdptSWCTj-udtE3UY2b5BFD3rB1Vi-mMJ/s320/love+banner+5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The banner/bunting was shared in <a href="http://mypurposemyworld.blogspot.com/2012/08/love-bunting.html" target="_blank">this previous post</a>. I cut out different papers and adhered various embellishments and formed the word LOVE.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg40Ho0axGrc8LkAiPOLOWoWYIP-2ZzPIwH3GQ3-zo3bAX0EFT42rWSKulBpYatUfDSjuDKj3hUu22vbXJT-6DE3lGEZ_5ebOFz3e2qAr7gnkIiD6Z5KY-23A2I1Gs1xgyHXEdLQ1QhDkJH/s1600/love+banner+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg40Ho0axGrc8LkAiPOLOWoWYIP-2ZzPIwH3GQ3-zo3bAX0EFT42rWSKulBpYatUfDSjuDKj3hUu22vbXJT-6DE3lGEZ_5ebOFz3e2qAr7gnkIiD6Z5KY-23A2I1Gs1xgyHXEdLQ1QhDkJH/s320/love+banner+4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">love bunting</td></tr>
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I wanted a way to manage the bits of notes that I needed to remember without stockpiling paper scraps all over my desk. I thought this was a pretty way to stay organized.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJVK79GBZVACMdMbxDS4QnW4hIw1Lx_tYagthE2reyo2gAjI-8A8WdM94v-T-QVMQ8WVjrYqWSIzNc4d0jXBCljVupBY2CLMnoNJU_869auMnPKndBu4lzCxpUnCQ2JA8b-js8VkSjqE4E/s1600/note+tags+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJVK79GBZVACMdMbxDS4QnW4hIw1Lx_tYagthE2reyo2gAjI-8A8WdM94v-T-QVMQ8WVjrYqWSIzNc4d0jXBCljVupBY2CLMnoNJU_869auMnPKndBu4lzCxpUnCQ2JA8b-js8VkSjqE4E/s320/note+tags+2.jpg" width="249" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">used: adhesive, glittered chipboard letters, baker's twine, and decorative tape</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlQAajma4Rw-P_FbQyrlKr5SX_AtzyZY8de4hk18eivgKftz50tLEdDPyux27LWUM5fs9YifoacJ0X94XHP3bBM1Gu41vShr7w-rOk1vCjUnOz7CMxpvDHbYEYCvN8vDAe6uYnijfbh9jW/s1600/note+tags+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlQAajma4Rw-P_FbQyrlKr5SX_AtzyZY8de4hk18eivgKftz50tLEdDPyux27LWUM5fs9YifoacJ0X94XHP3bBM1Gu41vShr7w-rOk1vCjUnOz7CMxpvDHbYEYCvN8vDAe6uYnijfbh9jW/s320/note+tags+3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">use the clip to keep track of bits of paper and receipts</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwkSfItI79COVo0yap38kquCKrxw_uCup3lN-Wcknuo0khKlrgVHZJ7A0kyHCa3t1U5tdFpGy4TeZnaqMYSXohu6veQ1AknVnd2ht4srXHuJQPfCbmlhELKtUJFYM4r0a75z7dN826OK2B/s1600/note+tags+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwkSfItI79COVo0yap38kquCKrxw_uCup3lN-Wcknuo0khKlrgVHZJ7A0kyHCa3t1U5tdFpGy4TeZnaqMYSXohu6veQ1AknVnd2ht4srXHuJQPfCbmlhELKtUJFYM4r0a75z7dN826OK2B/s320/note+tags+4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fun polka dot tape</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHWVTpGYlu3Igi8XOmAuDJlq6gp3qW1YRZw3we4k5CdX2CKeO5yJdu8UYLhqSmfuTrHr1pawGz4V3jIWDDP1_AtrskBAOjH3LmVrwIK1212R6BZ7mEI4etmdYx6-aG78Ax6d2oiWMxnaUa/s1600/note+tags+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHWVTpGYlu3Igi8XOmAuDJlq6gp3qW1YRZw3we4k5CdX2CKeO5yJdu8UYLhqSmfuTrHr1pawGz4V3jIWDDP1_AtrskBAOjH3LmVrwIK1212R6BZ7mEI4etmdYx6-aG78Ax6d2oiWMxnaUa/s320/note+tags+1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">life is good reminder</td></tr>
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<span style="color: magenta;"> <span style="color: black;">Anyone else notice what my husband did and I did not? With the bunting and the tags I created a board that says "love note."</span></span><br />
<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTION:</span> What do you remember about those first days of school?Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-48412237416773306322012-08-23T07:53:00.001-05:002012-08-23T07:53:51.990-05:00First Days Today marks the first week of the new school year for my kids. The youngest loves his teacher and the class and actually cries a bit when he has to leave. <i>His teacher</i>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3jcInh5WuuHYXxAtllUCBicgARrU256SCtVjKWKzZGZQYjIJHebmnBZjDuQbsk0OchVDWrq6eRvNTYGEz1TumWSXYzSg30-ZsGlajpX2h5jZu6HWumlBhwhtJ4ei49e5hvRaxP3P_t3SN/s1600/August+1st+day+of+school+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3jcInh5WuuHYXxAtllUCBicgARrU256SCtVjKWKzZGZQYjIJHebmnBZjDuQbsk0OchVDWrq6eRvNTYGEz1TumWSXYzSg30-ZsGlajpX2h5jZu6HWumlBhwhtJ4ei49e5hvRaxP3P_t3SN/s320/August+1st+day+of+school+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ready for the new year</td></tr>
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<br />
I love it.<br />
<br />
The older one (by 12 months) is ready to take charge and get her little brother to where he needs to be. She also promptly asks him for his homework when they get in the car after school. She is such a mother hen.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlFK7Smd-tp8xoonuI_a4LvCFMuhoX7vnJptDUZY9CY3B1C5ZMN6lyqBmIXRj-vKqb723G7PkaKeHGnhce9fhVTI4JVy0GDbmyoxonilwGqqyrfTBuQWby1OYR3ZEkenSPYEw2csbwYpjn/s1600/August+1st+day+of+school+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlFK7Smd-tp8xoonuI_a4LvCFMuhoX7vnJptDUZY9CY3B1C5ZMN6lyqBmIXRj-vKqb723G7PkaKeHGnhce9fhVTI4JVy0GDbmyoxonilwGqqyrfTBuQWby1OYR3ZEkenSPYEw2csbwYpjn/s320/August+1st+day+of+school+1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ready to begin</td></tr>
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He loves it. <br />
<br />
I organized a backpack ministry for a few local kids whose families needed help buying school supplies. Folks really stepped up; the administrator and others got teary when they saw the monogrammed backpacks. Can you imagine that some of these kids have never had their name on anything like this before?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9UHDbi8XAHmniFL0NE-ExJnksAJJ71O_V1JYqCClanGouJrfv6cu24ezIb8Q9_bLOSHacK7PNAezvyD2gFofPOpRrAhQUZyYS1wQjk9gX0m_EuYprfenYowzCc47-_CrBnXS381g2DOVy/s1600/August+backpacks+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9UHDbi8XAHmniFL0NE-ExJnksAJJ71O_V1JYqCClanGouJrfv6cu24ezIb8Q9_bLOSHacK7PNAezvyD2gFofPOpRrAhQUZyYS1wQjk9gX0m_EuYprfenYowzCc47-_CrBnXS381g2DOVy/s320/August+backpacks+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my kids helping take everything inside</td></tr>
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<br />
I also enjoy my new job but am still trying to manage the new schedule. It has not been consistent yet since we are gearing up for the new year and getting the school cleaned before the teachers return next week. But I have been working on sprucing up my space as well as a bit of organization. Here is a sneak peak.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXvSuWtF56iIAOGGS-LwNIoUo93fXQCQ7-oGAcByhgBBuZT-VjfJhyphenhyphenciQ5COfAiF0f-9Xoj30DYB8G5yEG_aEZRF0IO2mPNH_rD2GqMra2LzadBkJHRqbSe50qHlFYBze7yuGHOwuYpAsN/s1600/love+banner+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXvSuWtF56iIAOGGS-LwNIoUo93fXQCQ7-oGAcByhgBBuZT-VjfJhyphenhyphenciQ5COfAiF0f-9Xoj30DYB8G5yEG_aEZRF0IO2mPNH_rD2GqMra2LzadBkJHRqbSe50qHlFYBze7yuGHOwuYpAsN/s320/love+banner+4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my bulletin board makeover </td></tr>
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<br />
<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTION: </span>What are some of your firsts?Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-56738160233688715472012-08-15T09:01:00.001-05:002012-08-15T09:01:12.379-05:00Mixed Media MemoriesI have two kids -- a five and four year old. The oldest asked if she could have an 'art book' like mine. How can I resist?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvIDJstjMwRrOQ-prR6bZj1x_6GPxUhTyrbIBQ21UhqLrsBlFb8r_S4DHha6-Xh89UL0AaUBr5QU39O4TjxThEhnALF6v6UglUxZhjIBgV9SxeRD7b4kbji7_VydaCfYk8zgexy7E3CysI/s1600/August+mixed+media+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvIDJstjMwRrOQ-prR6bZj1x_6GPxUhTyrbIBQ21UhqLrsBlFb8r_S4DHha6-Xh89UL0AaUBr5QU39O4TjxThEhnALF6v6UglUxZhjIBgV9SxeRD7b4kbji7_VydaCfYk8zgexy7E3CysI/s320/August+mixed+media+3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">one of my journals</td></tr>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
She knows how to use an old gift card to spread paint.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifu4KmJuwQzsBr8oWPH1_b1LTPMxJuI6oCkZtNmZ-uLdqQYAxnSdN7SnWUjv8Y0zp_4iQ85TsYK-Z8RxpMSYNCX2-2sBNnZ2Ej99-rdxRQ45STXDc3npnBgarr9pMvE0JP68DmMqZsm0h5/s1600/credit+card+art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifu4KmJuwQzsBr8oWPH1_b1LTPMxJuI6oCkZtNmZ-uLdqQYAxnSdN7SnWUjv8Y0zp_4iQ85TsYK-Z8RxpMSYNCX2-2sBNnZ2Ej99-rdxRQ45STXDc3npnBgarr9pMvE0JP68DmMqZsm0h5/s320/credit+card+art.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a new use for an old card</td></tr>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
She likes to use markers and watercolors.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUEUcA1D3-M-Nl7LMvKjNf_abLGS4t7PQzmystlBnMZoe5dSQIHyMfV3XwATkTBcbsOXHIABamdgxF7Vd_vBtCv4xxobr2yZ09mb5zWjCUapd4mxjwGZaf2aetcn4k0Yy5Z8SnXzatE4xn/s1600/August+mixed+media+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUEUcA1D3-M-Nl7LMvKjNf_abLGS4t7PQzmystlBnMZoe5dSQIHyMfV3XwATkTBcbsOXHIABamdgxF7Vd_vBtCv4xxobr2yZ09mb5zWjCUapd4mxjwGZaf2aetcn4k0Yy5Z8SnXzatE4xn/s320/August+mixed+media+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">two watercolor pages waiting...</td></tr>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
She demonstrated to me yesterday that she knows how to use a brayer to adhere paper.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLWqXUeGuADFVAwI29ixGLDnftdB7tPuO502t-ilELYQaY1dhSZVHA0NTL2gu8IJg2cketjyB31AacYZtVYGOJyC2AUePFhRucUWndSxTMnk0oK0RKZYUFy4v9Cmkn1oCKgzFGqGpKnJ9R/s1600/note+tags+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLWqXUeGuADFVAwI29ixGLDnftdB7tPuO502t-ilELYQaY1dhSZVHA0NTL2gu8IJg2cketjyB31AacYZtVYGOJyC2AUePFhRucUWndSxTMnk0oK0RKZYUFy4v9Cmkn1oCKgzFGqGpKnJ9R/s320/note+tags+1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
She specifically asked if she could use the umbrella from a snow cone for her artwork. She added the letters after she saw me writing on my journal art pages.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwHSB55YplAKrNr08khx70x4sLta9H9zv6B0QeuYRBAMUdEkowQkBEUxJ9fgKZU0w-LevFc-Tr5taB4oRhoIeUSn0JdeDtA_dti7PMaOMjmVkXwixiq6-Ef_uYk_laWNgys7d4QA4gU3p/s1600/August+mixed+media+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwHSB55YplAKrNr08khx70x4sLta9H9zv6B0QeuYRBAMUdEkowQkBEUxJ9fgKZU0w-LevFc-Tr5taB4oRhoIeUSn0JdeDtA_dti7PMaOMjmVkXwixiq6-Ef_uYk_laWNgys7d4QA4gU3p/s320/August+mixed+media+1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">one of my favorite pages she created</td></tr>
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I told her that after she creates more pages that we will add the holes and put it all together. It makes me so happy to see her wanting to do 'artwork' like momma and seeing her pieces next to mine. What great memories.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTION:</span> What is your favorite creative medium?<br />
<br />
Linking up to <a href="http://jennymatlock.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jenny Matlock</a> for the letter M.Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-73398686057854120512012-08-13T13:26:00.000-05:002012-08-13T13:26:10.725-05:00Love BuntingExcited to be starting a new job after six years as a stay at home mom, I quickly created a bunting for the bulletin board above my desk. The office is narrow with one wall of cabinets that have been painted in a zoo animal theme so I wanted my wall space to be calm(er), pink, and less juvenile (I work at a preschool).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghtcg8K9yhkX4zbL1xxmVwD3WVssPXmxjL7TWzoB4mIaieYK3wO2qmT9OE3yDtoPh-zHK_agSFg26NsEe90iocc0O0oXEczhGW5i1uUxaMPlPqDlBo70ac11eOynqL0CKMBvZ1Wahbd3yP/s1600/love+banner+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghtcg8K9yhkX4zbL1xxmVwD3WVssPXmxjL7TWzoB4mIaieYK3wO2qmT9OE3yDtoPh-zHK_agSFg26NsEe90iocc0O0oXEczhGW5i1uUxaMPlPqDlBo70ac11eOynqL0CKMBvZ1Wahbd3yP/s320/love+banner+3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Since I actually have two roles at our large church, one as the women's ministry coordinator and the other as the interim assistant director of the school, I wanted to reflect my values and just have fun!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY0x1O1QK7CttMndJtICC_T2ZMCQO9vlTO8DatslrHUWKWuKbO0w7GC9BsqyTvvlauWiUBy0Yrqk3oQ31eWl4tlsHumVu-25SDBrfJKrcAkn-qk_Ym_QxnosEgSOYIks3-z-uM-3tF5SSy/s1600/love+banner+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY0x1O1QK7CttMndJtICC_T2ZMCQO9vlTO8DatslrHUWKWuKbO0w7GC9BsqyTvvlauWiUBy0Yrqk3oQ31eWl4tlsHumVu-25SDBrfJKrcAkn-qk_Ym_QxnosEgSOYIks3-z-uM-3tF5SSy/s320/love+banner+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I used chipboard pennants as the backing and simply cut out the different papers. I adhered ribbons, crepe paper, and other embellishments with a bit of bling for needed sparkle.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiEO3eDQywtHQFC3eZh0PynftYosq1morz_l-niNvzKsvgkbYedrW7_WXPSbqhFw5CG0QSMTbM4p646DeAc7_r37Xxiw2i38SQPH7DUuL8XoEs1V7WM0ge3uOGHTPUTeE4-3BkKBCf5fyo/s1600/love+banner+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiEO3eDQywtHQFC3eZh0PynftYosq1morz_l-niNvzKsvgkbYedrW7_WXPSbqhFw5CG0QSMTbM4p646DeAc7_r37Xxiw2i38SQPH7DUuL8XoEs1V7WM0ge3uOGHTPUTeE4-3BkKBCf5fyo/s320/love+banner+1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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A girl needs a bit of SHINE in her life.<br />
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Since the bulletin board was previously covered in a black and white zebra print (to match the cabinets) I will have to share the other things I created to help me stay organized in a later post. After I recover the bulletin board--you would not believe how many people told me to keep it:)<br />
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<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTION:</span> What would your bunting say?Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-38394364733297515322012-08-08T08:31:00.000-05:002012-08-08T08:31:49.335-05:00Living with SPDTwo years ago my five year old daughter was diagnosed with SPD or Sensory Processing Disorder. It means that her brain processes the stimuli around her in a different way than it does other people. Hers is a mild one; the extremes can often be confused with Autism.<br />
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Living with SPD means a little trip to the museum of natural science can spark a mini freakout. When we went during our recent vacation, she walked in, looked around, and stated that she wanted to go home. I had to pick her up with her trembling and sit her down on a bench in the Paleontology hall (think lots and lots of dinosaurs--who wouldn't be intimidated). I listened to her for about 5-7 minutes describe the bones, the pictures, the colors of the lights, the way the exhibits looked--and then she said she was ready. And then I could barely keep up with her happy self.<br />
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Living with SPD means that to be in my parent's pool means she wants to grab a hold with both hands on the side and not let go. The fear from the sensation of the water too close to her neck was too much for her. It took three straight days in the pool and about 15 minutes of working with her--hold on to the side with one hand, then, pretend surfing on momma's knees like surfer Barbie, then finally, trusting that she can kick and use her arms to swim with me holding her waist. (But she had no qualms at the beach on day four--go figure).<br />
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Living with SPD means taking her to dance class and waiting for her to stop murmuring with her hand clutched to her mouth as she gets used to the room and the people. <i>Every week</i>. I tell her that it is okay for us to leave but she LOVES dancing and wants to stay. So, I wait until she says it is okay. She begs to stay. And while I sit fatigued for the next 45 minutes, she dances and laughs as if the first five minutes had never occured.<br />
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Living with SPD is tiring.<br />
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Living with SPD takes understanding and more patience than I think I have at times.<br />
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Living with SPD means that I am so incredibly grateful and thrilled when she sings and performs in front of people at school shows even if she looks down sometimes (but still with a smile on her face).<br />
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Living with SPD means finding the places where she feels safe and watching her thrive.<br />
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<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTION</span>: What is a challenge for you? <br />
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This is for <a href="http://jennymatlock.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jenny Matlock'</a>s alphabet party for letter L.Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-38322347835291145492012-07-30T04:30:00.000-05:002012-07-30T04:30:02.136-05:00Running to Dreams<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yesterday, I admitted to a group of people that following a dream is not easy. The road is bumpy with cracks and sometimes the path curves around bends where you can't determine where you are going. I am not as interested in following a dream if it is not my calling. And when you have questions it is easy to give up.<br />
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Then, I found a photo of my daughter running at the zoo and was inspired. <br />
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I painted a canvas, glued a copy of the picture, recycled a dryer sheet by gluing it down for texture (and to simulate the tough going of following a dream), and stamped the letters.<br />
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<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTION:</span> Are you running to or from a dream?Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-64690749059630003782012-07-27T06:00:00.000-05:002012-07-27T06:04:59.914-05:00Summer LovinDo you remember the movie <i>Grease</i>? I wanted to be a pink lady and have the pink jacket and even the pink car (but the car in the movie--not the Mary Kay pink car).<br />
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Jenny of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ABirdInTheHandArt" target="_blank">A Bird in the Hand Art</a> thought up this <a href="http://bloggingbusinessartisans.blogspot.com/search/label/Monthly%20Challenge" target="_blank">month's challenge</a> which is related to the movie and summer lovin'. I actually created my ideas a while back and simply forgot to blog about them! <br />
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<a href="http://artfulrising.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Tell Me About It, Stud Journal </a></div>
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it is better in an other language (I love you)</div>
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Love What You Do....</div>
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I have managed to get the above in the <a href="http://artfulrising.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Artful Rising etsy shop</a> but I actually still have more love items to get added. I need a photographer, editor, time manager,....oh, wait! That costs? I will be the picture taker, editor, time <strike>waster</strike> manager.</div>
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<span style="color: purple;">QUESTION:</span> What do you think of when you think of the movie and summer love?</div>
<br />Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-74977941752233243642012-07-25T04:28:00.000-05:002012-07-25T04:28:38.170-05:00Jack of all Trades<div style="text-align: center;">
Some of us are good at sleeping.</div>
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Some of us are good at giving looks. (before he was clipped up there and down there, too)</div>
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Some of us are good at playing cute,</div>
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Or playing dead.</div>
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Some of us are good at jumping in cars to inspect the pizza and hot wings.</div>
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He is really good at sleeping. I mentioned that already; it is very true.</div>
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I cannot believe this little guy was considered feral when <u>he adopted me</u> after a T-N-R. And did I tell you that I am allergic? </div>
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I am glad he found me. </div>
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I am linking up to <a href="http://jennymatlock.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jenny Matlock</a> for letter J. See what the others have to say.Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-58700152330828926772012-07-23T07:00:00.000-05:002012-07-23T07:00:11.683-05:00Stuck in the Mud<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiogdQqf7o2xnCOkc2ngAwqpMU1MnX6vXgcDPASMOV9c5ruTjvMDCyb5WQlh1FO7RiJSmlvWKgTaO1AVGrK_60BtrznrPgt27hlQr9gVRm6d-1pzg8TzrmlijMn30BF2Z5u1CBWhz2KNTCA/s1600/elephants+in+mud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiogdQqf7o2xnCOkc2ngAwqpMU1MnX6vXgcDPASMOV9c5ruTjvMDCyb5WQlh1FO7RiJSmlvWKgTaO1AVGrK_60BtrznrPgt27hlQr9gVRm6d-1pzg8TzrmlijMn30BF2Z5u1CBWhz2KNTCA/s320/elephants+in+mud.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/2busybroads?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">2BusyBroads</a></td></tr>
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I grew up walking distance from the water and when it was a low tide or after the water receded from a flood the mud would <i>stink</i>. And the mud covered everything and kept its prey firmly planted in its dirty, stinky, spot.<br />
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There are moments when I feel stuck, like the bad attitude is keeping me from moving forward. The most frequent ways I get stuck revolve around my feeling of unworthiness, being busy, and the ill effects of a disease.<br />
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I get stuck and my husband tells me that my attitude stinks.<br />
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<a href="http://memoriesforlifescrapbooks.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Edi's</a> truck was broken into <u>three years ago</u> and a few days ago she received a pretty incredible phone call. Her purse, wallet, and debit card were found in the mud of a local dried up river bed--stuck, held in place for three years.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Being stuck in our mud keeps us from moving forward.</b></div>
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<a href="http://clicktotweet.com/yGzYL" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnhTpad7ki7umnYpglqyQmUuJaj5aEZilqHZEoNuOoXZEcw8ffu9ZT6tEEEOBLNEXINHerMZVJT9o-eBSaStTi2Q9R-LKDbuhR2arJPl4hPCKXUZ-tUVNm3OPcrPCK265vLjRK4ObUZpCc/s1600/tweet+this.png" /></a></div>
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<br />
I taught a class on this topic and people shared words like, "he tells me I am being mean", "I get so tired the kids tell me that I need a nap", "I want things to be done my way."<br />
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<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTION</span>: What does your being stuck look like?Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-59615745076110242342012-07-18T08:08:00.000-05:002012-07-18T15:51:07.980-05:00Imagination in Paint<div style="text-align: center;">
I pulled out the paints yesterday. My kids, 4 and 5 years old, showed me their skills.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCDFRgqn7CWEUu1t6suGDeVP9KjxXjP4ki706gaTuBc-A30eT3MXDah4NMpbwoQ1kHy97saaOmyYpX36UucBQZHkhpqgtSMX1UmiuMfBPmMIrjV7DUc9Ri-jO3eWhSwwHCLJtUyoUXmaU8/s1600/July+art+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCDFRgqn7CWEUu1t6suGDeVP9KjxXjP4ki706gaTuBc-A30eT3MXDah4NMpbwoQ1kHy97saaOmyYpX36UucBQZHkhpqgtSMX1UmiuMfBPmMIrjV7DUc9Ri-jO3eWhSwwHCLJtUyoUXmaU8/s320/July+art+6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKH7JrQ02I0nyIPSOJYQjFH1bxcLPzDlY-6JDoLz5psP-RDv1dL6x8EeqaEwFYyOc_V4C5G1SOxZ1nx0eEEjb03pN5Le1mFgkc1gAcwQ-1p5zBDoms4XJkjb6oOYuZOgSp92W-LXmPSR6A/s1600/July+art+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKH7JrQ02I0nyIPSOJYQjFH1bxcLPzDlY-6JDoLz5psP-RDv1dL6x8EeqaEwFYyOc_V4C5G1SOxZ1nx0eEEjb03pN5Le1mFgkc1gAcwQ-1p5zBDoms4XJkjb6oOYuZOgSp92W-LXmPSR6A/s320/July+art+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
If you use a toilet paper roll you can lift up the upper layer and reveal what's underneath.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjkHX2EZD2kRF_7FHso8uz7TQr5IyRg_pJsnFF6luDRU_aKCtaM6nyC-WG3z8B0QjJyfNoyCMvVa_3KhnfDPxDOxy_b9H94eUKkpoRmjdq3dxxrcOtRICadiQlxZGMA5nNROygPDo5VSF/s1600/July+art+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjkHX2EZD2kRF_7FHso8uz7TQr5IyRg_pJsnFF6luDRU_aKCtaM6nyC-WG3z8B0QjJyfNoyCMvVa_3KhnfDPxDOxy_b9H94eUKkpoRmjdq3dxxrcOtRICadiQlxZGMA5nNROygPDo5VSF/s320/July+art+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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You then can use that roll to decorate Momma's page.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaJQoYBB_q3Kp_HJsnB_89jsuMA_202SUOT4Cl0G590ygmmal18meI54tXNPVa7G5Hbx4C-oFGMxGQQAK437b3HRNmBQGSC6UuT4wh6-vgMbIiFcpbMlMwxauuSlYCpcXP7_PCf6coSnKu/s1600/July+art+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaJQoYBB_q3Kp_HJsnB_89jsuMA_202SUOT4Cl0G590ygmmal18meI54tXNPVa7G5Hbx4C-oFGMxGQQAK437b3HRNmBQGSC6UuT4wh6-vgMbIiFcpbMlMwxauuSlYCpcXP7_PCf6coSnKu/s320/July+art+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And to save a shoe that a 4 year old believed could be saved by scotch tape (not), he opted to paint it instead.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVudi6_XIk6ivhFofOUchjvcaQl386uxGoGktnRlJSa_9LmPK6Huc-j4o6GucEMcdUu3PrB0UrHs_QMZI9HDDnljIkZBjOTKufWUlShlgkBT5jMw-Mv0_cXJr7znTS_0prFcOoF6COLcf/s1600/July+art+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVudi6_XIk6ivhFofOUchjvcaQl386uxGoGktnRlJSa_9LmPK6Huc-j4o6GucEMcdUu3PrB0UrHs_QMZI9HDDnljIkZBjOTKufWUlShlgkBT5jMw-Mv0_cXJr7znTS_0prFcOoF6COLcf/s320/July+art+4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">turning trash to treasure! See the blue sticking out? It is a dryer sheet painted and added to the shoe.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
I think his turned out the best!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlStrYY95D9oakjGkmuRQw491Rc4O5GWjgKpmhqG4whopTWvh_8tcPh0gGyDwlkB1MXNdey4vpVfCcWgrr3csRbeLizaLEfYRw45vwcZMt6s7mc1VGg_wMy1pQ64aUlAj7p_HIzzbA_7GT/s1600/July+art+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlStrYY95D9oakjGkmuRQw491Rc4O5GWjgKpmhqG4whopTWvh_8tcPh0gGyDwlkB1MXNdey4vpVfCcWgrr3csRbeLizaLEfYRw45vwcZMt6s7mc1VGg_wMy1pQ64aUlAj7p_HIzzbA_7GT/s320/July+art+5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I am linking up with <a href="http://jennymatlock.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jenny Matlock</a> for alphabet I. <br />
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<div class="fb-comments" data-href="http://mypurposemyworld.blogspot.com/2012/07/imagination-in-paint.html" data-num-posts="2" data-width="470">
</div>Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-84776104607604308912012-07-16T07:00:00.000-05:002012-07-16T10:21:47.702-05:00How to Grow Your Email List<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYSSGkHMEYUfjgXXXxERcvNestNbVOiUKLOC7c33ipCjU71R6KwV1SVmMKNj28K2NuRwj8T2QA0mKACkdZiH1hgbyCHkdg4I-7OihHi8MNLf-g_b6VgXuo96hwZvDDmEjoMHup3HDDsTkK/s1600/mail+bag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYSSGkHMEYUfjgXXXxERcvNestNbVOiUKLOC7c33ipCjU71R6KwV1SVmMKNj28K2NuRwj8T2QA0mKACkdZiH1hgbyCHkdg4I-7OihHi8MNLf-g_b6VgXuo96hwZvDDmEjoMHup3HDDsTkK/s320/mail+bag.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ShopArcheologie" target="_blank">Shop Archeologie</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I told you why you need to <a href="http://mypurposemyworld.blogspot.com/2012/07/build-your-email-list.html" target="_blank">build an email list</a>. Now we will discuss how to actually grow that list so that it makes a difference.<br />
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The first thing I look at is how the placement of my signup form and its appearance affects conversion (getting my readers to sign up).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2QOgQSNXcVg8IGxKpd7S0YND-adWvevCUmOMMXxPShCRPBQz4ALatnnLyk5ZpLIod-Ns2jA_nGcyN-OMWtugg_iOWIqzSKUKyz_yGJMip0cXqWs-_9b9onJ0PMYJl3xEHWoZBI1VV6UYM/s1600/email+list+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2QOgQSNXcVg8IGxKpd7S0YND-adWvevCUmOMMXxPShCRPBQz4ALatnnLyk5ZpLIod-Ns2jA_nGcyN-OMWtugg_iOWIqzSKUKyz_yGJMip0cXqWs-_9b9onJ0PMYJl3xEHWoZBI1VV6UYM/s400/email+list+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my sign up with a free creative e-guide--testing what works best</td></tr>
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Then, I use the statistics in my mailchimp account to determine if my titles, setup, and links are 'working.' In my case, I want to know that people are opening up the email and if they are reading the material. The fact that I get emails from subscribers lets me know that the newsletters are being read but I need to know the other details. I still want to know that my email list opens and clicks at a higher percentage than the average.<br />
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This is what I have learned and want to pass on to you.<br />
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<b>Have your signup form on your site</b>. People are more likely to subscribe if they only have to click one time for the enter button--don't send us somewhere else for the sign up form and make us leave your site! You could miss the chance for the reader to fall in love with more content.<br />
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<b>Keep it simple</b>. We have to earn the trust of people subscribing so ask for their email address only. If you need it, ask for their first name. People are distrustful of the internet at times and the information it stores so why make them cringe as they subscribe?<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjvXaHqnMsHNChgUVZgoMvmy_jadublOQMgK9WCNa4z3xw3Cmp7SSDo0XICsAfqQghDp_z6VfG7teryhSbsB83ABhV_Ifab2JlWkaPvyyhEZvEHevIqf8QwMQ28fio7fyTRTI7SJ7T-jHS/s1600/email+list+2+social+proof.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjvXaHqnMsHNChgUVZgoMvmy_jadublOQMgK9WCNa4z3xw3Cmp7SSDo0XICsAfqQghDp_z6VfG7teryhSbsB83ABhV_Ifab2JlWkaPvyyhEZvEHevIqf8QwMQ28fio7fyTRTI7SJ7T-jHS/s320/email+list+2+social+proof.jpg" width="287" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I added the arrow and words. Sometimes people like knowing they are joining a big group.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Be visible</b>. It does no good to have a form if we can't see it. Most sites with large subscribers or where their list is important have it above the fold line. And if we have to scroll down to get past your header, your header is too big. The point of your blog ought to be about your content and call to action. This would be a great place for a sign up form.<br />
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<b>Use your words carefully.</b> Pay attention to the words people use on their subscribe buttons, especially on those with large email lists. We ask you to join, sign up now, and get free updates; a subscription typically costs money so try a different word besides 'subscribe' and see if that helps with conversion.<br />
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<b>Stick to your message.</b> On my sign up blurb and on a separate link up page for those coming from my shop, I let people know what they are getting with these type of words: once a week, challenges, tips, encouragement, creativity, promotion, a free ebook---if I start sending out emails on how to do math equations I would not be surprised if people unsubscribed in droves.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyeZXJ-imTm50-6z8fl6xt7235vnIT4K1aBpDpKo3DCunEH2hVBWbyrU-o5c2Hj1cPmv8BNMZeAMzutFvMOhvs3TNfW8XrTtxGAt15JDZ-JQhaFR0Zzr2BRyqbum-t9GZi-7pTP6__7KCd/s1600/email+list+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyeZXJ-imTm50-6z8fl6xt7235vnIT4K1aBpDpKo3DCunEH2hVBWbyrU-o5c2Hj1cPmv8BNMZeAMzutFvMOhvs3TNfW8XrTtxGAt15JDZ-JQhaFR0Zzr2BRyqbum-t9GZi-7pTP6__7KCd/s320/email+list+3.jpg" width="262" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">an example of a sign up form I found online</td></tr>
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Those of you that have been on my email list for awhile know that I recently changed the look of my newsletters. This is a test and I am looking if adding the pictures and the different sections helps with click-through and what comments I get from subscribers. This is all part of delivering content in a way that can still have impact and be relevant to those that took the time to join in the first place! <br />
<br />
mailchimp <a href="http://mailchimp.com/resources/" target="_blank">resources</a> if you want to go through their guides.<br />
Part one of this <a href="http://mypurposemyworld.blogspot.com/2012/07/build-your-email-list.html" target="_blank">build your email list </a>series<br />
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<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTION</span>: What entices you to sign up for a newsletter? <br />
<br />
<div class="fb-comments" data-href="http://mypurposemyworld.blogspot.com/2012/07/how-to-grow-your-email-list.html" data-num-posts="6" data-width="470">
</div>Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2956661572071595715.post-13586274446621823092012-07-13T08:45:00.002-05:002012-07-13T08:45:42.391-05:00Big Hearted SurpriseOn July 4th I won a lampwork glass heart necklace from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/HollysFollyGlass" target="_blank">Holly's Folly Glass</a>. I like the black and white swirls and the unique necklace (she sells these in her shop as well). She is very talented and on her <a href="http://hollysfollybeads.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blog</a> I saw that she created a memorial bead for a friend's pets. (Sharla, I thought of you).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8S4ZRJkgMybQkZul1qUvMH5_Wo7Lq9c9d3pyiOB2hJSwlKLbDkQKmzbvcZn7r3KbVCTYnWVIF06Ds42eh5c_W6t1cHK1TLfTdkhgboLNZyIhTiOc7m7fMfdgtTjorsVdDd1tB6mR4Rxdz/s1600/heart+pendant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8S4ZRJkgMybQkZul1qUvMH5_Wo7Lq9c9d3pyiOB2hJSwlKLbDkQKmzbvcZn7r3KbVCTYnWVIF06Ds42eh5c_W6t1cHK1TLfTdkhgboLNZyIhTiOc7m7fMfdgtTjorsVdDd1tB6mR4Rxdz/s320/heart+pendant.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And today, the incredible Edi of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/memoriesforlifesb" target="_blank">Memories for Life</a> scrapbooks and laser engravings featured one of my prints for her <a href="http://memoriesforlifescrapbooks.blogspot.com/2012/07/friday-features-dream-big.html" target="_blank">Friday Features</a>. My favorite gift to give from her shop are the custom name albums but her laser engravings have really opened up the possibilities of what Edi can create for her customers. And she likes custom orders so be sure to check out her shop. She made something for my dad that is not listed in her shop and it is gorgeous so just ask!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvh8mp0gn4ozmT-PEHgSIBYYI8aRhAq_jjigZFOEuLSjL0QVOUi2JW7jCLGqNZsl-dYWVP85nwF9vmnapY9LttnFf5P3A32q6OZbY_AL6pCwE8hTq_hyphenhyphenr1RD45BFBba1v9EClC8HmjKGw8/s1600/ornaments.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvh8mp0gn4ozmT-PEHgSIBYYI8aRhAq_jjigZFOEuLSjL0QVOUi2JW7jCLGqNZsl-dYWVP85nwF9vmnapY9LttnFf5P3A32q6OZbY_AL6pCwE8hTq_hyphenhyphenr1RD45BFBba1v9EClC8HmjKGw8/s320/ornaments.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Rose of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/randomcreative" target="_blank">Random Creative</a> is wonderful about promoting fellow BBA teammates and others on her <a href="http://www.randomcreativeart.com/" target="_blank">blog</a>. She currently has a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/randomcreative?section_id=10112954" target="_blank">Christmas in July sale</a> going on. I purchased this bracelet for the coming holiday (while working on this blog post). I will be working at a preschool and think this will be fun;) Check out her other cute things.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz0Lu59ufJoRjeOuGU24M0W4hA-MRgOuV3oMZtq0gwr3F5WpxKyzl1nzs1woKpeGYTPv5po8SzIFNDcdGos8dvjkTubSXG3HMaCXAvrReiO7g-QZJD7BvCMx3LIgebkwX5gIQQ4q_IU4Ms/s1600/bracelet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz0Lu59ufJoRjeOuGU24M0W4hA-MRgOuV3oMZtq0gwr3F5WpxKyzl1nzs1woKpeGYTPv5po8SzIFNDcdGos8dvjkTubSXG3HMaCXAvrReiO7g-QZJD7BvCMx3LIgebkwX5gIQQ4q_IU4Ms/s320/bracelet.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Deb was asking about newsletter for her <a href="http://www.storybeader.com/" target="_blank">Storybeader blog</a> and inspired my <a href="http://mypurposemyworld.blogspot.com/2012/07/build-your-email-list.html" target="_blank">email list post</a>. She recently traveled to Italy and created these pretty <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/103826012/blue-handmade-paper-beads" target="_blank">paper beads</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEg2BtBwYx7wkVS7n5R3ZeeAZMWjJ_87QP-09rNK4TrXh_KP3vdJzSjGG5S7X5zQs7MOiM7GqRmloplueJQf4qY8JlkfXRH6I4lvhk84DHpAdBRqFffS4av_Sqxy_VfgDAD80F87Mfl8qU/s1600/beads+deb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEg2BtBwYx7wkVS7n5R3ZeeAZMWjJ_87QP-09rNK4TrXh_KP3vdJzSjGG5S7X5zQs7MOiM7GqRmloplueJQf4qY8JlkfXRH6I4lvhk84DHpAdBRqFffS4av_Sqxy_VfgDAD80F87Mfl8qU/s320/beads+deb.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;">QUESTION:</span> Who has inspired you this week?<br />
<br />
I am linking up to Random Creative's <a href="http://www.randomcreativeart.com/2012/07/friday-feature-black-cats.html" target="_blank">Friday Features link party</a>.Erika http://www.blogger.com/profile/02042799019418411409noreply@blogger.com7