Two Hearts Become One

TLC391 ~ SCS

About two years ago I started thinking about creating a Victorian wedding card complete with antique gloves and glove box, and a replica of a "Tussie mussie."   Historically, a bridal bouquet, in the early 1400s, small bouquets or single flowers were held in beautiful ornate sliver containers made into brooches and wore on a woman's dress or coat lapel.   I did get a card done for a wedding I'm attending this coming Saturday, but I'm still working on the glove box and Tussie mussie (as time permits).   I can't wait for you to see them.    I love looking for inspiration in antique shops and ladies magazines for items of long ago.    And, I'll admit, that some of this reminds me of my paternal grandmother, a lady of style and substance through and through.     I'm sure she was a vision of pure elegance on her wedding day. 

Tomorrow another bride will take center stage and all eyes will be upon her.    As two hearts pledge their commitment to one another I pray they're hearts will be knit together as one.   For the scripture says: Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh.  What therefore God has joined together, let not man put asunder.   Matthew 19:6 KJV

For all the brides-to-be, and those who are still brides after many years, may we aspire to be the woman of Proverbs 31; a woman of virtue - her price far above rubies.   A jewel in His crown.
Blessings,

Milk Run - Coming Home

Art work and Photography by Vance V. Lessard ~

Every once in a while I like to share my husband's photography.     But I don't think I've ever shared his art work.     This is a B17-G    The term milk run was used during WWII when the bombers had a mission against an easy target - less risk of being shot down.   This is one of those bombers after the milk run - going home.   The art work is done with Adobe Illustrator then placed over one of my husband's photographs.   He flys a great deal and shoots with the Arizona Aviation Photography Group.   When he's flying back and forth to DC he has his camera out and takes these shots from the aircraft!   A year ago several of his pieces were placed in the National Museum of Naval Aviation.  What an honor.   We just watched Gene Cernan, "last man on the moon" give an interview from the museum.    It's a wonderful place to visit if you ever get the chance. 

This piece is also a tribute to Vance's uncle, Patrick, who died in a B17 over the Atlantic during WWII.

We had a lovely day just creating together and sharing memories.   I hope you enjoyed your day too.
Blessings,

Birthday Wishes

TLC391 Challenge

I think this is the first time I've played this challenge.   I loved it because it allowed me to use whatever I wanted as long as I didn't use a stamped image.  I needed several birthday cards this week and decided this would be a great way to use my sparkly, ribbony, rose embellished, flat pearl, pinky goodness.   How's that for some adjectives (smiling).

Wishing both my friend, and my cousin a Happy Birthday this week.    Both cards are entered into the TLC391 Challenge.   I'm in the pink today (smiling).

TLC391 Challenge

Truth be known, I love vintage, shabby chic, and all things pink!    So when I can create a card that allows me to use whatever I want, well... it's as good as a cupcake and a nice cup of tea - yum!

My card uses Memory Box and K&Co designer papers.  Prima roses and leaves, flat pearls, and a pretty vintage panel with the words, "Birthday Greeting."   I machined stitched around the large and small panels.   Tomorrow I'm going to create this card again, but I'm going to make just a few changes.   I'll update this post with another photo once I'm finished.   Until then my dearies, have a cup of tea on me.

Hope you're in the pink today!
Blessings,

Life's a Journey

CAS183 - Sketch Challenge and CT0812 - Neighborhood

My card today was entered into the SCS CAS183 Challenge - A Sketch by Tenia Sanders-Nelson.   A nice sketch with a slanted panel.   I'm also entering this card into the Central Theme Challenge - Neighborhood.   This is the time of year families pull up into a new drive-way, new house, and a new school - that can be difficult.  Let's welcome them with open arms (a hot dish would be nice too).

Aah, September, how we love you.   You beckon the fall,  remind us of pumpkin pie, mums, and leaves that swirl and dance with the tiniest of snowflakes.    Oh wait, it also signals family moves!   Just ask any military family (she smiles).     I remember one such move.   Our tiny Volkswagon blew a clutch in the mountains of upstate New York one fall day.   A cross-country trip to the next duty station now delayed.     Not to worry -- Larry, Larry, and Larry showed up with a flat bed truck to transport our little car to the nearest town.   My eye surveyed the area with the keen vision of a mother eagle.  I spy a lack of seating room in the cab of the truck - where will my little brood sit?     Why in the car of course!

Family of four inside a Volkswagon Bug;
On top of a flat bed truck traveling through the mountains of New York;
Priceless!

As my children laughed with delight, I vaguely remember the words spoken by one of the Larry's, "Life's a journey my friend, enjoy the ride!"

My focal image (the packed boxes) was small therefore I chose to place it higher on the slanted panel.   I also included another image from this stamp set at the bottom of the design.  I wish the sentiment was just a little larger, even so, the card remains balanced and still allows for a nice clean appearance.

Enjoy the ride today.
Blessings,

Treasure Hunter

MMTPT211 - Treasure Hunter

"What be your name, matey?" said the pirate captain.    James, sir.  And this is my dog, Salty.   "What be ye here fer?"    "Treasure sir," said James.   "Well shiver me timbers boys, we've got a treasure hunter amongst us!"   Present your sword ye little scalawag and may the best pirate win - aargh!

This weeks Teapot Tuesday Challenge destination is Champaign, IL.   Our little friend, James, was in Children's Hospital St. Louis but is now home recovering from cancer surgery.     James is all boy, and loves pirates and their adventures.    The Teapotters at SCS are cheering little James on to win his battle with cancer with a boatload of get-well wishes.   Our prayers and thoughts are with James and his family.   With faith all things are possible. 

For more about James Sidenburg please read his story on Caring Bridge .     This card is for you James.   Get well soon and hurry home for a treasure hunt! 

Thank you for stopping by today.

Blessings,

Party Time

Teapot Tuesday Challenge MMTPT210

   Many of you may remember the card, In This Very Room, I created for my niece, Laura Triem several months ago.   Laura was in a terrible accident in Colorado last November and suffered severe brain trauma.    I thought it might be time for an update and a party card since Laura has worked so hard. 

Laura is now walking with assistance and the use of a walker.  She's also able to swim with assistance.   She loves using her iPad and has updated her Face Book page.   Her voice is coming back much stronger and louder although eating is still a challenge.    Colorado's Channel 9 news co-anchor, Kim Christiansen, did a story on Laura shortly after her accident and was nominated for an Emmy for her piece.   Although Kim didn't win, it was an honor for both she and Laura.   Last week Kim and her team returned to document Laura's improvements; which are many.  The story will air this coming week.    Laura is a determined warrior eager to regain her health and abilities, and I think that's reason to celebrate don't you?

Party Time (MMTPT210)

Hugs, Kisses, and Get-Well Wishes (MMTPT210)

I hope you'll consider playing in the Splitcoaststampers Teapot Tuesday Challenge this week.   The destination is Aurora, Colorado with cards going to Laura Triem.   What a wonderful encouragement!

My card uses Stamping Bella's Uptown Girls, Pattie and Dottie, Friends Forever.   They're decked out in their finest fashions, their sparkle matches Laura's wonderful personality.  This one is for you sweetheart.   Continue to get well.  We're cheering you on!

Blessings,

Sweet Dreams

I wonder as into bed I creep

What it feels like to fall asleep.

I've told myself stories, I've counted sheep,

But I'm always asleep when I fall asleep.

Tonight my eyes I will open keep,

And I'll stay awake till I fall asleep,

Then I'll know what it feels like to fall asleep,

Asleep,

Asleep,

  Asleep...

                                                 ~ Ogden Nash

Blessings,