Pure Bliss

Romantic Treasure Chest

2012-01-31T21:09:00.001-05:00

It seems only yesterday when I was so busy making Christmas cards and tags - now my stamping desk is covered with red and pink papers as well as hearts, cupids, and arrows embellishment. Yup, Valentine's Day is just a couple of weeks away!

Speaking of Heart's Day, Just Us Girls blog is challenging crafters to create a 3D project or template with Valentine theme. When I think of Valentine's day, the things that come to mind are wine, chocolates, romantic dates so here's what I did....

I made this wine tag using a template and stamped it with damask design in black and embellished it with heart-shaped crystals. To add 3D effect, I attached a wine chocolate on the tag.

Keeping the romantic Valentine theme in mind, I arranged the tagged bottle of wine, two wine glasses, scented candle, bath crystals and matching bubble bath, chocolates and a DVD of the film Gone with the Wind in a wooden chest.

To complete my romantic treasure chest, I did this matching card....

Voila! A perfect gift for a romantic Heart's Day date!

Cheers,
Mei Ann

Thanks JUGs for another inspiration:

A "Do-Over"

2012-01-29T22:25:00.001-05:00

Make-over, I am familiar. But a "do-over" is kinda new to me! But I admit it was fun!

I stumbled upon Amber's {a very talented crafter!} blog who is hosting a do-over blog hop. I'm sure every card designer has a "did I do this card?" or "what am I thinking?" moment. I have many of those cards that are hidden at the bottom on drawer - never to be seen again until today! Like this one here....

I can't even remember when I made this one, maybe on a dark and cloudy day :-) thus, the color choices. For the do-over, instead of using patterned paper, I stamped the vines and flowers in pastel colors.

I used the same "thinking of You" sentiment but this time stamped instead of my own handwriting. I love the white ribbon from the original card so I decided not to change it but embellished it pins.

Now this is what I call a real do-over. Thanks Amber, I truly enjoy giving this card a new life.

Have a fantastic work week ahead!
Mei Ann

The Power of Two {Challenges}

2012-01-25T21:52:00.000-05:00

Back @ home sweet home after almost a week in Orlando attending a company meeting. I had a blast spending a whole afternoon with my hubby at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studio! If you are an avid fan of Harry like me, that is the place to go. I'll have another post about the trip soon. but today I want to share this card I did last night inspired by two of my favorite challenges: Moxie Fab World's Cool Tools Challenge and Just Us Girls' "Red, pink and white" color challenge.

I fell in love with this puppy stamp I got from a sale bin a long time ago and embellished it with a tulip which I die-cut from the wedding design cartridge of my Slice machine. The sentiment "love" is also a die-cut from the same cartridge.

I had fun doing this card and looking at it really makes me smile! I hope it will make my hubby smile too...

Thanks Moxie Fab and JUGs for the inspirations!

The Power of Two

You Make my Heart Flutter

2012-01-21T16:45:00.000-05:00

If I can choose 3 tools in my craft room that I can't live without, my punches will definitely be on the list. How can I not love punches? This crafting tool has gone a long way - from the 2-hole punch I used in my elementary days to file my school projects to the fanciest designs we now admire in various "master pieces" in the crafting world. I bet Martha Stewart is making tons of money from her line of punches {which I sincerely love!}. The butterfly punch I use for this card for The Punches Challenge over at Moxie Fab World is on the top of my list.

On a folded card stock, I drew a heart shape then adhered the punched butterflies filling the entire heart. I love contrast created by the white butterflies on the red card stock. I sprayed glitter mist on the butterflies to add sparkle. And to complement the fluttering of the wings, I added the sentiment which I just printed from my laptop.

It only took me less than 5 minutes to create this card from start to finish! Another reason why I love my punches!!!

Cheers,
Mei Ann

We are ...

2012-01-14T21:57:00.001-05:00

...running away from the freezing weather to catch...

to be enchanted by...

to dink...

to explore...

and to be enchanted...

See you in 2 days Hogwarts!

Photo credits:http://harrypotternews.universalorlando.com/images.php

Melted Inspiration

2012-01-14T19:54:00.000-05:00

I have used several things inside our home to embellish a design like a bag of tea

{like this one here}, butcher's twine, sponge, etc. They are for me the most cost effective

tools in mt studio. Moxie Fab World is challenging crafters to find something inside the

house that can be used in creating a card, a layout. tags, gift bag among others.

I decided to try using melted scented candles that are currently burning in my craft room.

I poured different colors of melted candles on a piece of paper.

While the liquid is still warm on the paper, twist and turn the paper

in different angles to create an abstract design.

Place the paper on a flat surface and allow the candle to solidify.

Voila! A melted inspiration!

Did I say the card smells like lavender, wild berries and pine?

Cheers,

Mei Ann

Blending in Perfect Harmony

2012-01-14T13:14:00.005-05:00

The sun is shining brightly ... the snow on the grounds

is sparkling like little diamonds

as if teasing me to come out and seize the day.
There's a catch though ... It is -22 degrees Celsius outside!
Perfect weather to be trapped inside my craft studio. Pure bliss, indeed...

The timing couldn't be perfect. Moxie Fab World is hosting an array of challenges using different crafting tools. I started working on my first card this morning using my cuttlebug machine for the embossing challenge.

I dabbed some distress ink {in peeled paint} on top of the template to highlight
the design before running the paper into the machine.

I then stamped, heat embossed and cut an angel fish and a seahorse
to make the card's focal point. The sentiment is from Fiskars' Latte Love collection.

When my hubby saw the finished card, he said "is that supposed to be you and me?"
Yup! You and I dear.
Two very different personalities but blending in perfect harmony!

P.S.
Got my copy of paper Crafts' Cool Tools special issue and once again, the team outdid themselves again. So many useful information and inspirations. You guys are so cool!

Keep warm {or cool},
Mei Ann

Songs from the Heart

2012-01-10T18:04:00.001-05:00

I just want to share this layout I did last December. Some of my friends and I visited a Nursing Home for Children with special needs and sang carols for the children. The memories of that Saturday afternoon will forever be in my heart. I will never forget the smile on their innocent faces, the rhythmic nodding of their heads and the joyful claps of their tiny hands while we were singing. Because of their conditions, most of the children can't speak, hear nor stand on their own. But as soon as the guitar, tambourines and drums were played to accompany the melodies of Jingle Bells, the children expressed their excitement and happiness in their own special ways.

The words coming from them were incomprehensible but they were so beautiful to hear because these were songs coming straight from their pure hearts. We went there with the intention of giving joy to the little ones but they gave us more than what we gave them!

Since I can't share the pictures of the little angles for privacy reasons, I preserved the memories through this photo which was taken when we were practicing the carols.

P.S.
Speaking of Christmas carols, while driving to work yesterday morning, my dear hubby asked me if we can start a tradition of singing and/or playing Christmas carols for a week during summertime :-). That we way he said we don't have to wait for another 11 months to hear the wonderful songs of Christmas. Why not? I said. Maybe we can even invite some friends over for a barbeque party and Christmas carols sing-along! Let see what the neighbors will say about this new tradition...

Q&A

2012-01-09T21:14:00.002-05:00

A friend of mine tagged me to answer a set of questions - no theme, no directions, just random questions which I truly enjoyed answering.

1. Song that makes you sad
Special Memories sung by Broadway Filipina actress/singer Lea Salonga. This is my song to my dear papa who passed away last year.

"All the times we shared will always be to me
Songs my heart will sing refreshing melodies
I'll put together all of our laughter like a symphony
I'll remember you wherever I may be."

2. Last thing you bought
There was a huge sale at Michaels last Saturday so I got myself a Slice Cordless Cutting Machine and several Slice cartridges.

3. Last person you argued with
I can't remember. It must have been a long time since I argued with somebody. It was probably with my hubby and I can bet my bottom dollar that it was about something so trivial like "why did you leave the lights on?"

4. Do you put butter before putting peanut butter on?
No, but that it seems like a great idea. I'll try it tomorrow morning with my tea.

5. One of your stuffed animal's name when you were a kid
I didn't like stuffed animals when I was a kid. However, a day after Christmas 11 year ago, my hubby and I found a little stuffed mouse on a sale bin. We felt sorry for him because all of the toys are gone except for this one so we bought him for 2 bucks and named him OLOF. He's still with us up to now.

6. Did you ever at one time own a Barenaked Ladies CD?
No but I love singing "If I Have a Million Dollars".

7. Favorite day of the week
Definitely Friday! Its wine and Karaoke night at home for my my hubby.

8. Favorite sunday toppings.
None. I like my ice cream plain.

9. Most frequent song played
Lately I'm playing "Like A Lover" by Dianne Reeves a lot while driving from work.

10. TV show you secretly enjoy
Not secretly but I can spend the whole day watching Big Bang Theory. I love Sheldon Cooper!

11. Would you rather play basketball or hockey?
I can't play both but I would rather watch hockey since I live in the hockey capital of the world. However, I can't stand the fighting in ice hockey. I don't get it when the referee is just standing there and watch 2 players punch each other.

12. Date someone younger or older
I don't have the intention to date now or in the future. I am married to a wonderful man who I intend to grow old with.

13. One place you would travel right now
Fly to Manila to see my mom, sister and nephews.

14. Do you use umbrellas?
Rarely. We have more snow than rain here in Ontario, Canada.

14. Do you know all the words of the Canadian national anthem?
I'm proud to say yes. As Filipino-Canadian, I owe it to the country I consider my adoptive home. "O Canada, we stand on guard for thee!"

15. Best job you ever had
What I am doing now: a pharmaceutical marketer by day ; wife, domestic goddess and paper crafter by night. I couldn't ask for a better one!

Cheers,
Mei Ann

A New Year to ... EXPLORE

2012-01-08T22:16:00.009-05:00

Happy 2012!

I'm not fond of making new year's resolutions for the simple reason that can't keep them! Instead, I vow to EXPLORE the opportunities that come with a brand new year.

Inspired by the word EXPLORE and the sketch from Card Patterns, I made my first card for the year which I intend to mail to myself to remind me life is too short to not to spread my wings wider and discover new things, faces, and places.
When I was looking for craft materials to express my current state of mind, it seemed like the stars are totally aligned. Hubby and I went to Michael's yesterday {well, I kind of "coerced" him to go with me} and found this dollar stamp that perfectly conveys my feelings of "pushing the pencil" and "flying high" to a whole new world of endless discoveries.

On to the next isle was a huge sale of Slice Cordless Cutting Machine which I got for 29 bucks and cartridges are sold for 5 bucks {it was Christmas morning again!!!} so I got crazy and took everything that my 2 hands can handle. The sentiment on the card is from Sing and Dance Slice cartridge. I added glitters on the wings to make it the focal point of the card.

Back to my "explore and discover" mode. Here's what I wrote on my idea notebook:

Let 2012 my year to EXPLORE
... my personal relationship with my God
... new ways to show my family how much I love and adore them
... my passion in paper crafting and dancing
... Peruvian and Ethiopian cuisine

... the art of calligraphy

... my stock knowledge in speaking Spanish
... the "magic" of Harry Potter in Florida

... the life of Antoine de Saint-Exupery
and ... my hidden strength to do what I am capable of accomplishing

Cheers to a new year of endless possiblities!
Mei Ann

From Our House to Yours

2011-12-30T21:30:00.004-05:00

The grounds are finally covered with snow! I was hoping for a white Christmas but it's
never too late.... the Christmas spirit is still very much alive in our house
and the fresh snow this morning is stretching the holiday ambiance.

I had a bit of down time {in between preparing the New Year's ham and the laundry}
so I made this tag using my Stamping Bella stamp.

From our house to yours, I hope you are enjoying the holidays
and the cold but beautiful winter season!

Christmas Everyday

2011-12-30T08:29:00.004-05:00

I wish everyday is Christmas Day!

I remember a nun told me once that when God created

the world He wanted a Christmas atmosphere...

where people are jolly, generous, peaceful, kind, family oriented...

That is not too much to ask isn't it?

It can be Christmas everyday!

100 Days After {An open letter to my father}

2011-12-19T10:52:00.006-05:00

17th December 2011

Dear Papa,

I know how much you love receiving letters from us. remember when you were still in Saudi Arabia? You said you would rush home at the end of your work day to see if there are letters for you in the mail. Today I decided to write you a letter with a fervent hope that you would be rushing back home to us...

Pa, malapit na ang Pasko {Christmas is almost here}. I was putting additional angels on our tree this morning and I couldn't help remeniscing one particular Christmas when we can't still afford to buy the big tree we saw at the mall. I was nine or ten at that time. When we got home, you gathered some dried braches of the coconut tree from Tita Emy's yard and made a Christmas tree out of it. You painted it all white and said "O, ayan para mukhang may snow! {there, so that it will look like it is covered with snow!}. Jing and I had the best time of our lives decorating the small tree while you were singing "little Christmas tree no one to buy you give yourself to us..." I wish you would rush back home to make us a tree and sing to us once more....

Pa, remeber the year you got me a pnk volley ball for Christmas? That was the year I discovered you were our Santa Clause all along! You were so happy when you came home that night - you couldn't hide your excitement about the gift because you knew I was wishing for it the whole year. At the same time you were trying to suppress your excitement because you don't want to spoil the "magic" that Santa brings to my youth. Pa, you will always be my Santa - so giving, so jolly and and so magical in your own ways! I wish you would rush back home to give me the gift of YOU once more....

Pa, Noche Buena {Christmas Eve feast} is something we look forward to as a family. Mama was always busy in the kitchen making "halayang ube" {purple yam jam} for Jing and macaroni salad for me. The most anticipated dish was the mouth-watering fried Chicken Calasoy that you would bring home from Leila's Restaurant. Oh, how can i forget the the delicious smell that filled our kitchen once Jing and I unwrapped the brown paper and tin foil! You and mama would laugh seeing how delighted we were. I wish you would rush back home to share our Noche Buena once more....

Pa, today is the 17th of December.... the 100th day since you left so suddenly and returned to our Maker, to your heavenly home. It's been emotionally hard for all of us. You taught us everything but how come you never told us how painful it will be when you're gone, not to hear your voice calling me "anak ko" everytime I call you at home, not to feel tour hugs? Mama and Jing are hurting too. There is not a single day that we don't think of you. Even Mai Mai would sit patiently outside your bedroom door waiting and hoping that you would come out of the room and give her a pat on the head. I wish you would rush back home to ease the pain once more....

Pa, I can't promise you that there will be no more tears. I am not even sure if the wound of losing you will ever heal. I lost the man who made me who I am today, who sacrificed a lot of things to give me the best life I could possibly have, who loved me unconditionally.... YOU were and will always be the best gift God has given me. I am so proud to be your daughter and I hope I made you proud and happy too in my simple ways. When I look at the stars tonight, I will search for the brightest because in my heart your are that STAR looking down from heaven.

Papa, if not asking too much, please tell Jesus to let you rush back home because we want to hug you... just want more time....

I LOVE YOU forever Papa. I will see you again....

Your Ann

A Diorama and A List

2011-12-12T06:00:00.009-05:00

December 8 - DIORAMA

One of the holiday traditions I look forward to when my sister and I were still little girls is the annual visit to C.O.D. department store in the heart of Manila. I remember a lot of people, young and old from near and far would travel to see the life-size-automated-musical-Christmas decorations built at the entire facade of the building. My Papa and Mama would bring us there at night time to better appreciate the lights and colors. I can't forget how beautiful they were and we would talk about it for days!

I can't find anything like that from our neck of the woods here in Canada but there is the annual Christmas Diorama at the Bay Shopping Mall in downtown Toronto that my hubby and I visit every year. It's not the same, but still magical anyway....

December 9 - LIST

It's the 9th of december already and I have not done any shopping yet! With so many year-end reports and presenations to finish plus the left and right dinner invitations, choir practices and personal errands, time is not my friend lately.

I manage to finish one thing though.... made the LIST and checking it twice....

I used a small craft bag for my journal and date page.

The colorful gift cards are sort of reminders where to get the gifst I want to give so I used these cards I got from shopping malls from previous year.

Hope to get shopping done pretty soon!

A scarf, random scenes and the plans

2011-12-11T10:19:00.008-05:00

December 5 - SCARF

What a chill day! There's nothing beats a warm and soft scarf on a cold night like today....

December 6 - RANDOM

We make it a point to put up our Christmas tree a week after Thanksgiving {here in Canada, Thanksgiving falls on a second Monday of October} and keep on adding Christmas decor up until few days before Christmas. We add small things around the house that hold memories or stories from the time the tree is up until the big day....

December 7 - PLANS

I had some down time today and took the opportunity to plan the food, the drinks and the decor for our Christmas Midnight celebration which is known as NOCHE BUENA in the Philippines....

Since my hubby doesn't eat turkey, we're planning to have beef and ham as main course, Italian wine for drinks and dress up the dinner table in chocolate and white decor....

I hope you are having a great day!

A wish, a party, a blessing and some quiet time

2011-12-06T20:17:00.009-05:00

Project "December Daily" has officially begun here in my little studio. I'm quite excited as a newbie on this very popular holiday tradion started by Ali Edwards.

December Daily documents the 25 days leading to Christmas Day. Personally, I look at it as a "my captured moment" - a time to cherish at least one event each day that can be easily forgotten in the midst of our busier than usual schedule as we eagerly await for the birth of our Lord and Savior!

The tale begins...

December 1 - WISH

Still sick and stayed in bed practically the whole day. While nursing a bad cold, I wrote

my one wish for Christmas... I wish I can embrace my dad one more time.

I miss him so much...

December 2 - PARTY

Our marketing department had a our Christmas lunch today at Canyon Creek.

It's a nice break for everyone to have glass of wine {in the middle of the day :-)}

as most of us are busy preparing for our coming off-shore

sales and marketing meeting...

December 3 - A BLESSING

Every time I count my blessings, my good friend Tracey is always on my list.

My hubby and I had early Christmas dinner with her and her family

along with some friends today.

Food, laughter, songs, stories, friendship.

Until next time Trace...

December 4 - QUIET TIME

A breather... a reflection... a time to be still...

for in silence I hear what my God is telling me...

Nature's Apple Coolers

2011-12-01T18:01:00.003-05:00

When mother nature decided to make her own version of apple coolers,

this is what she has in mind...

The snow didn't last long {not yet anyway},

just long enough for me to capture the moment!

December Daily 2011 {foundation pages}

2011-11-30T20:06:00.005-05:00

I gave in!

After "stalking" Ali Edward's December Daily for the last couple of years, I decided to take this project head on!!!

I don't have one of those 25-day-kit from Studio Calico but I guess I have enough materials from my stash to work on the foundation pages while I'm home nursing a fever.

To serve as my "GPS", I wrote down all our confirmed activities for the month which I expect to be the highlight of these noted dates.

and here's peek of my foundation pages....

The 25 days of collecting memories leading to Christmas start tomorrow.
Can't wait to make this album come to life.

Toast ... Orange Juice ... Snow

2011-11-30T12:29:00.003-05:00

I stayed home today coughing so badly in between on and off low grade fever...

no appetite but this combination somehow made me feel better...

then I saw this from my bedroom window...

it went on for two hours and left a lovely landscape...

welcome back my "flurry" friends!

Christmas is in the Air

2011-11-29T20:35:00.008-05:00

Just Us Girls is hosting a challenge to create a set of cards with matching

packaging. Incidentally, I made 5 Christmas cards last Sunday

with one rule in mind: clean and simple.

The packaging is just a simple clear plastic embellished with

green paper and red ribbon to match the overall color scheme of the card set.

Enjoy the rest of your work week!

I have a full week ahead but I hope to squeeze in a couple of ours each day

to finish all my crafting to do list.

A Gift

2011-11-27T20:54:00.010-05:00

It didn't take me so long to get used to making cards again after more than a year

of "craftless" nights.

As soon as I opened my ink pads, took the stamps

from their cases, and smelled the comforting scent of cardstock,

creative juices started flowing and before I knew it,

I finished 6 different designs from six-thirty to eight this morning!

I ran out of time to take photos of the cards though.

Sunday is usually reserved for church choir, a lunch date with hubby

and cooking meals good for one week

{yeah, you read it right - with our busy

schedules at work, we will end up buying take outs

every single day if we don't do the cooking on Sundays}

Anyway, back to the cards ... it felt so good to be

stamping again.

After I finished all of them,

I tied a ribbon to the stack of cards as if they are precious

gifts.

Well, they are!

A gift for me from me for finding my way back

"home"....

.... it is so nice to be back!

The Calm Before the "Storm"

2011-11-26T23:33:00.006-05:00

I just finished sketching the designs of the Christmas cards and tags

I will start working on

tomorrow.

Before I get to stamp, cut, trim, emboss, and make a "creative" mess

on my two desks,

I want to capture the the serenity of my room.

Papers and and tools will be scattered here and

there in a few more hours.

Who cares, that's why it is called

"studio"

{defined as a room where you can make a mess and get paid}!

Blessings and Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T20:47:00.006-05:00

Give thanks with a grateful heart for

the showers of blessings we receive day after day!

Happy Thanksgiving to all our families and friends in America ....

{inspired by one of Dawn McVey's great designs}

Jane's Not So Secret Garden

2011-11-23T21:26:00.006-05:00

Just want to share a couple of miniature gardens decorated by my

sister....

.... aren't they gorgeous?

Can't wait to do some projects with her as soon as I'm back in

Manila!

From the Tree to Afternoon Tea

2011-11-22T21:04:00.008-05:00

Last weekend my hubby "harvested" the last batch of apples from our grafted-dwarf-apple tree in the backyard that gave us more than three dozens of juicy and plump red and green varieties {yes, all in one tree, how cool is that}!

As much as we enjoy eating the apples raw and crunchy, it was so hard to resist not to mix it with flour, eggs, butter, brown sugar and milk to make an apple turnover cake.

With a cup of freshly brewed tea, we had an instant afternoon tea delight!

I am BACK!

2011-11-19T17:43:00.011-05:00

When I accepted a new job a year and a half ago, I knew there will be changes in my priorities. I knew that some of the things I love like blogging and crafting will take a back seat just for a while. But weeks turned into months.

Before I knew it, months turned into a whole year of work, travel, church choir and wife duties {yes, most of the time in that order, thank God I am blessed with a very supportive hubby}!

Good thing is, I truly enjoy my day job. I feel I have accomplished a lot in a span of 16 months. The traveling, although so tiring at times, is necessary and effective tool to be more efficient in my job.

However, a recent life-changing event made me realize life is too short to totally neglect "other" things that bring so much happiness and fulfillment in my life. If I want to do it all, I just to make time for these things.

A little bit of sacrifice here and a bit of reward there, I can be ME again - wife, marketer, "crafter", daughter, choir alto, sister, blogger and more in between! The order will change on a regular basis but always complete.

God is good ... all the time!

Strawberries + Chocolate = Happy Hubby

2010-07-25T21:38:00.007-04:00

I'm not a big fan of chocolates. I tried several times to develop an appetite for it but I just don't like it. My hubby on the other hand can finish a bag of kisses in no time. We were in Belgium several years ago and there's this street where you can buy all kinds of chocolates you can imagine. He was like a kid on Christmas morning ... he can't decide which one to open first. By the end of the day he ate more than a kilo!!!

If strawberries are in season, I love making this treat for him ... juicy strawberries dipped in Belgian Chocolates!

Insert stick in strawberries.

Cut good quality Belgian chocolate in small pieces. Put in Pyrex bowl and melt on top of near boiling water. Add small amount of cream, butter and espresso on melted chocolate.

Dip strawberries in melted chocolate. Refrigerate for at least an hour.

Place individual strawberries on cupcake paper.

Serve and Enjoy!

Think happy and sweet thoughts!

Mei Ann

Smiling From Within

2010-07-24T21:03:00.004-04:00

Wow .... what a week!

Last month, I shared on this post that I there will be changes as far as my professional life is concerned. The change happened last July 19th ... that's when I joined a new company in a new position. Not entirely new, I should say, because I've done Product Management in not so distant past. The thing is, I am back in an office environment after being out in the field for the last 6 years!

It was quite an adjustment this week ... taking the subway everyday @ 7AM with my dear hubby instead of driving alone from one appointment to another ... sitting in my office in front of the computer with my brain spinning like there's no tomorrow ... eating my daily home-made lunch in the office lunch room ... everything is new again and I'm embracing the changes with a big smile!

Change is definitely a blessing. It will take you out of your comfort zone but it will let you see things in a different perspective. At the end of the day, you will give thanks with a big SMILE!

Have a great weekend,

Mei Ann

Fun & Cute

2010-07-13T20:47:00.010-04:00

Have you seen the new Card Style from Paper Craft? My golly wow, the ladies outdid themselves again!!! To celebrate the release of this "must have" magazine, Cath at Moxie Fab World is hosting a Card Style Week challenge. First on the list is "Fun and Cute Style Challenge".

I thought I'll give this a try with this card I made on a rainy afternoon.

The raindrops background, the rain boots and umbrella are just too cute! These are all in my stash and didn't give a second look at them until that rainy afternoon. I just love everything about rainy days! Don't you?

Think happy thoughts!

Mei Ann

Supplies:

Cardstock - Reflections {white}
PP - American Crafts (everyday line}
Stamp - My Favorite Things {sentiment}
Ink - Memento {tuxedo black}
Others - American Crafts {ribbon} , Fiskars puncher {boarder}, Jolee's boutique (3D stickers}

A Fabulous Saturday Afternoon

2010-07-13T07:49:00.008-04:00

July 10, 2010 ... while almost everyone on the street was sporting the tiniest pair of shorts and tank tops to fight the sweltering heat outside, about 15 pairs of well-dressed ladies and gentlemen {including moi and my hubby :-)} gathered at the private room of The Brock House restaurant celebrating our dear friend - Pamela's "fabulous" 40th birthday!

I made this very simple yet I should say elegant invitation for Pam. The mini dress form on top of my sewing table inspired me with the focal point of the card. My friend Pam likes to dress up so I thought this simple design would be fitting {no pun intended :-)}

I embellished the front page with aqua gems in various sizes and used the same color for the cardstock inside the card. A single sunburst flower in bright yellow-orange stamped on top the of the message was the other focal point. The birthday girl loved it and so do I!

That's my dear and fabulous friend Pam .... Hey girlfriend, wishing you all the good things that truly matter! Life begins at 40!

Much love from all your "fabulous" friends!!!!!

Mei Ann

You Are My Home

2010-07-12T18:51:00.005-04:00

We are finally back at home sweet home after a short summer break in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Oh, six days of nothing but blue skies, hot sunshine, soft white sand and gentle waves ... couldn't ask for more {or maybe I could pray for another break like this before the summer is over :-)}!

Why is it that no matter how much you enjoy your vacation, you still long for the comforts of your own home ... your so familiar bed ... your own domain? I was inspired by that thought in mind when designing this card. I guess and the beautiful colors are inspired by The Play Date Cafe Challenge 37.

Thanks for dropping by and I hope you are all enjoying your summer as much as I do!

Cheers,

Mei Ann

Celebrate

2010-07-03T20:43:00.002-04:00

Still on celebration mode! There's so much to be thankful for and I could not let an opportunity pass me by without capturing what I feel through papers and colors!!!

Cheers!

Mei Ann

Blessed @ 43

2010-07-01T23:13:00.005-04:00

I turned 43 today. No, I refuse to fuss about my age. I would rather count my blessings from above ....

I am blessed with so much love from my wonderful family. They are the reason for my being ....

I am blessed with friendship that goes beyond seasons .... Tey, you are a gift I will forever treasure ....

I am blessed to work with beautiful, smart and kind people. They made me appreciate who I am and what I am capable of ....

I will pray tonight with gratitude for I am blessed with things that truly matter!

Thank you from my heart.

Mei Ann

Who will miss you?

2010-06-29T08:50:00.008-04:00

I had dinner last night with my colleagues from work to celebrate the retirement of Paul {after 35 years in the industry!}. We went to one of Paul's favorite hang out places - the Bobby C's Dockside. The weather was perfect so we had an 'al frecso' dinner overlooking the beautiful lake Ontario.

For someone who's been in the business for 35 years, Paul's unwavering enthusiasm and passion for his craft are just a couple of things I would like to emulate. You will definitely be missed ....

.... by ALL of us!

Life starts @ retirement dear Pauly! Enjoy a well-deserved life with your beautiful family and with all the Callaway golf goodies you brought home yesterday, we wish you more "birdies" on the fairway!!!

Cheers,

Mei Ann

Supplies:

Cardstock - Reflections {white}
PP - s.e.i. {alpine frost}, Jillibean soup {talk soup}
Ink - Versa Magic {jumbo java}
Embellishment - google eyes

Thank You Teachers

2010-06-27T21:43:00.006-04:00

Another school year is about to end. It's the time of the year when parents express their gratitude to the all the teachers who mentored their children. Not having kids of my own didn't stop me for making this "thank you" card for a teacher. I was out with my best friend Tey last Saturday and she was looking for a gift for Bea's teacher so I volunteered to make the card to go with the gift.

How I wish I can make cards like this during my school days. I would love to give it to my 2 favorite teachers ... Miss Lucia Mateo, my Religion teacher and Miss Dolly Soriano, my Pilipino teacher and fourth year adviser. They influenced by formative years and thought me not to be afraid to follow my dreams. In their loving hands, I am a clay. With the patience of a potter, they both honed me to be the best I can be. Thank you so much my dear teachers. I hope I gave justice to your teachings ....

Cheers,

Mei Ann

Bianca's Birthday

2010-06-26T23:55:00.001-04:00

I made this card for Bianca's {my friend's daughter} birthday. She turned 1 year old today. There was a part in the program when Bianca was carried by her dad in the middle of the dance floor for her "first" dance. It was so cute and sweet ... just the 2 of them ... father and daughter ... a captured moment indeed!

Going back to the card, I attempted to do a dimensional design to capture the playfulness of the dolphin using pop-up glue dots.

Ahh, the joy of simple things ... a cute card, a happy birthday and watching father and daughter's first dance ... priceless!

God bless,

Mei Ann

3 S's {Sand, Sun & Sea}

2010-06-25T21:37:00.007-04:00

photo courtesy of bid4assets

The countdown begins! South Carolina here we come!!!

My hubby knows how much I love being in the ocean so for my up coming birthday he booked a trip to Myrtle Beach, SC. We both can't wait to walk on the shore at sunrise, finish a book while basking in the sun, enjoy a nice dinner and wine, or simply just stroll on the boardwalk.

Ahhh, I can almost feel the the soft tides on my bare feet! One more week ....

Have a great weekend.

Mei Ann

I Believe

2010-06-22T20:04:00.006-04:00

In less than a month, I will be "trekking" on higher grounds. The roads are different but not entirely unfamiliar because I have taken the same challenge in not so distant past. Nervous? I wouldn't say no but I am also very excited and enthused. I am looking forward to new challenges and reaching new heights. I will make a difference. I believe!

Obviously, this card is inspired by what's coming out from within me. Sunrise marks a new beginning. I made the sun rays background using shading technique and combining fired brick distress ink and sunflower yellow Tsukineko die ink. Mountain represents bigger challenge. Again shading/grading technique using peeled paint distress ink. Horses define hard work, focus and winning. I will not have it any other way! I believe!

Have a fantastic day,

Mei Ann

Supplies:

Cardstock - Reflections {white}, Brazzill {mud pie}
PP - American Crafts (everyday line}
Stamp - G Studio {sentiment}
Inks - Ranger Distress Inks {peeled paint, fired brick}, Tsukineko {sunflower yellow}
Embellishments - Dress it Up buttons {horses}, black gems

CPS Fan

2010-06-18T22:48:00.006-04:00

When Carly Roberston of CPS e-mailed me about a month ago, I have to read her message twice to make sure that I understood it right .... she asked me if it's OK to feature my work based on a CPS sketch for the Facebook Friday Fan blog post! What a blessing! You can read the CPS post here.

As soon as I got the sketch, I worked on this card using my favorite color combination : gold, aqua and black.

I stamped and heat embossed the flowers in gold to match the ribbon. I also matched the aqua background with the aqua gem embellishment on the butterflies.

Thanks again Carly and the rest of CPS design team for continuously inspiring us with your sketches and your great designs!

Thanks for dropping by and have a fabulous weekend!

Mei Ann

Rain or Shine

2010-06-17T10:25:00.008-04:00

It's been raining on and off here in our neck of the woods for the last 2 weeks and I LOVE it! Oh yeah ... I love hearing raindrops on window panes ... I love the smell of grass after a rainfall ... I love the burst of sunshine in between rainfalls ... I love the inspiration that rain brings out in me ...

:Sometimes I see myself as a child in a rain storm, running around trying to catch all the drops in my mouth. I long for adventures to be like the raindrops the child saves and not those which crash on the ground!:

The best thing one can do when it's raining is to let it rain! ~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Cheers!

Mei Ann

Supplies:

Cardstock - Reflections {white}
PP - American Crafts (everyday line}
Stamp - My Favorite Things {sentiment}
Ink - Memento {tuxedo black}
Others - American Crafts {ribbon} , Fiskars puncher {boarder}, Jolee's boutique (3D stickers}

So Thankful

2010-06-13T23:19:00.010-04:00

Whew! What a tough week it has been and I am sooo glad it's over :-) ! I'm not going to dwell on it on this post but suffice it to say that I am blessed and my prayers were answered! For that, I am forever grateful!

For this thank you card, I used the color inspiration from the current Embellish Magazine Challenge : brown, yellow and coral.

To be honest, I don't think I've used this color combo in my previous projects so I was struggling at the beginning. That's what challenge is all about! It pushes me out of my comfort zone!!!

For the watering can template, I took advantage of the free template from Waltzingmouse Stamps.

"I thank you, Lord,
for the victory that growing brings.
In surrender of everything
life is so worth while.
And I thank you, Lord,
that when everything's put in place,
out in front I can see your face,
and it's there you belong."

Mei Ann

Supplies:

Cardstock - Brazzil {mud pie}
Stamp - TPC Studio {sentiment}
Ink - Versa Magic {jumbo java}
Label - Martha Stewart
Others - Prima flowers, EK punch {butterfly}, gems
Template - Waltzingmouse stamps {watering can}

In Our Thoughts ....

2010-06-06T14:35:00.010-04:00

I totally agree with most of card designers when they say that the hardest card to make is a sympathy card. That's how I felt when I made this simple card for a dear friend who I will be seeing tonight.

No word is good enough to ease the pain but you are in our thoughts and prayers as you grieve for your loss ....

"Nadie puede venir a Mí si no lo trae el Padre que Me envió,
y Yo lo resucitaré en el día final"
Juan 6:44

Thanks for dropping by,

Mei Ann

Supplies:

Cardstock - Recollections {pure white}
Patterned paper - Black and white dots from stash
Stamp - Prima Clear Stamps { foliage}, TPC Studio {sentiment}
Ink - Ranger Distress Ink {peeled paint}, Memento {tuxedo black}
Others - Stampendous Embossing Powder {clear} EK punch, gems

Spring @ Home

2010-06-05T20:21:00.017-04:00

Casa Guerrero is bursting with colors! The spring flowers are in bloom making our front porch an inviting place to read a book and our backyard a retreat to spend our summer afternoons sipping iced tea with lemon and rosemary {super refreshing} while sunbathing.

I thought I'd share the fruits of my hubby's labor {yes, he's the gardener, I am just the garden director - I point where the plants should be planted!}!

.... the front porch

.... backyard treasures:

.... the MAN with the green thumb!

Bloom where you are planted!

Mei Ann

Nail It Girlfriends!

2010-06-03T00:22:00.016-04:00

I was thinking about my girl friends when I was working on this current challenge from EBTKS...

Every now and then, my bffs from work and I will book a spa to ourselves for a late afternoon of girl bonding in the midst of our manicures and pedicures. Each of us will bring a bottle of our favorite wine and some finger foods plus lots of girl gossips that last for hours!

Now back to the challenge :-) ... I made a small "freebie" card for our next spa get away. I took out my favorite RED polish and color parts of the robe of the lady in the salon who reminds me so much of the way we look when being pampered on those afternoon nail bonding moments!

Then I attached the nail polish inside the middle fold of the card like so ....

There you go .... a small gift to remind them of our favorite bonding moment.

I truly enjoy being a GIRL!!!!

Mei Ann

Supplies:

Cardstock - Recollections {black, cream}
Patterned paper - Melissa Frances {Philip}
Stamp - Stamping Bella { Georgina}, My Favorite Things {sentiment}
Ink - Dew Drop {graphite black}
Others - Nail polish, ribbon, EK punch, flocking powder, eyelets

Like A Sunflower

2010-06-02T20:24:00.007-04:00

"Like a sunflower that follows every movement of the sun.
So I turn towards You to follow You my God!"

Remember that song from Sunday school? I just love that song and so is this card! So bright and cheery. I was inspired by the colors from Stacey's Stamping Stage: ACT 32. I paired this gorgeous color combination with the fabulous sketch from CPS 169. I think the result is quite nice :-)

"In simplicity, charity I follow..."

Be happy always,

Mei Ann

Supplies:

Cardstock - Recollections {white and yellow}
Patterned Paper - Crate paper { Very Berry}
Stamp - Inkadinkado {Sunflower}, TPC Studios {Just a Note sentiment}
Ink - Color Box {Pink}
Pens - Prismacolor {orange, black, canary yellow}
Embellishments - Gem and ribbon from Martha Stewart

A Bag Tale

2010-05-30T21:42:00.007-04:00

It all started with a cute little bag.

I asked my dear friend Patricia to give me some scrap fabrics I needed for a project. When I saw her last week, she surprised me with a gorgeous little bag she made herself. The black and white bag is adorned with green flowers ... the exact colors of Embellish butterflies color challenge!

To thank my sweet friend for her thoughtfulness, I made this "thank you" card inspired by her little bag and the gorgeous colors from Embellish.

Thanks Patty! Great minds think alike, don't you think? :-)

Cheers!

Mei Ann

Supplies:

Paper - black, Kraft cardstock, Melissa Frances {Philip}, DCWV {Nana's kids print}
Stamp - Prima clear stamp { leaves}, TPC Studio {sentiment}
Ink - Ranger {peeled paint}, VersaMark watermark
Others - Martha Stewart Punch {butterfly}, EK Punches, gems

A la Mona Lisa

2010-05-30T00:54:00.000-04:00

I was browsing old pictures when I came home from church this afternoon and saw an old photo of mine taken in front of La Musee de Louvre back in 1998. I was fortunate to spend a good amount of time in Paris while completing my training in Marketing. If we were not exploring neighboring European countries, our weekends were usually spent inside museums and trendy cafes. The visit to the Louvre was definitely a highlight.

My hubby and I braved the long line just to see the famous lady with the mystique smile. Mona Lisa did not disappoint {except for the miniscule size of the painting!!!}, she is really a lovely work of art! With her mind I worked on this card using a stamp from Artful Stamps I found at one the Scrapfests ......

Since Moxifab World is currently hosting the Fun With Fabric Challenge, I punched 2 small holes on the shoulder blades and inserted a piece of violet silk to create an off-shoulder top accented by green gems which I think is very classic and elegant just like the image of the lady. The sentiment is from Fiskars' Soiree des dames collection. Oooh la la!

Bonne journee mes amis!

Mei Ann

Quick Peek

2010-05-29T18:18:00.006-04:00

Just a quick post and a peek on a project that I just finished for our church's Ministry Fair. This project is definitely out of my comfort zone {the usual size cards and 12x12 layouts} .... a 3-panel display board is a bit overwhelming! But hey, for God's glory, nothing is impossible :-) I'm glad it turned out fine. I hope our parishioners will like it as much as I enjoyed working on it.

Thanks for visiting! Need to drive to the church now and deliver the "goods" for the fair's opening!

Happy Saturday!

Mei Ann

True To My Faith

2010-05-25T21:16:00.006-04:00

I am keeping my faith alive ... something is about to happen in 3 weeks that may affect my professional life which I nurtured for the last 21 years. It is beyond my control so I am letting go of my doubts and fears and letting God to take over!

In moments like this, I capture my deepest feelings and put it on canvass like painters do. But in my case, my canvass are my papers, and through them, feelings flow ....

"Faithless is he that says farewell when the road darkens."

- J.R.R. Tolkien

Cheers,

Mei Ann

Off We Go!

2010-05-21T08:44:00.010-04:00

It's the first long weekend of spring/summer season ... vrrroooommm ... off we go! This excitement along with Get Sketchy Card Card Challenge inspired me to make this card at the crack of dawn.

Canadian families with cottages and vacation homes consider Victoria Day long weekend as the official start of summer season. This is the weekend they open their summer cottages, prepare BBQ grills, clean their boats and stock up their cottage pantries with booze and summer goodies. That said, as early as 2 this afternoon, major routes will be jammed with travelers!

Hubby and I will be on the road too. No, we don't have a cottage {sigh} but we do have an old trailer { really old :-)} that we look forward to visiting every summer weekend . Instead of driving the trailer to different places, we are renting a lot for the last 4 years inside Island Park RV resort which is 2 1/2 hours north east from were we live. The park is nestled on the beautiful trent river where we can swim, fish, or simply just unwind. We are lucky to be given a prime spot big enough to build at least 5 huge tents when friends come over for an over night stay. Our trailer is also facing the forest where fireflies are abundant. Peaceful and relaxing during the day but magical at night!

Have a safe and fun long weekend! Thanks for visiting!

Mei Ann

Cyrus, Sarees and More

2010-05-17T17:26:00.008-04:00

Last Saturday, our godson Cyrus was baptized into the Christian world. Hubby and I were so excited not only because this is the very first time that both of us will be godparents here in Canada but more so because Cyrus' parents, Percy and Madonna are really like second family already. The sacrament kinda seal the deal!!!

Percy and Madonna were originally from India and like us, they came here in Canada by themselves with no immediate family to share the ups and downs of migrating in a foreign land. In honor of their rich Indian culture, JV and I wore the traditional saree and kurta. The vibrant colors, the gold accessories and the soft silk made us feel like royalty!!!!

Another common ground that bonded us even more is our strong Catholic faith plus our love for music. We all sing in our church choir every Sunday. That said, the party after the ceremony was filled with music, dancing and yes, lots of spicy and tasty Indian cuisine!

Madonna and I on the dance floor ... bollywood anyone?

Baby Cyrus with Ninong JV and Ninang Mei Ann

The D'Souzas and the Guerreros

JV and I have been blessed here in our adopted homeland. The friendship shared with this wonderful family is certainly on top of our list!

To our godson Cyrus, may you grow full of wisdom and faith like your mama and papa.

Cheers,

JV and Mei Ann

EBTKS Challenge #15

2010-05-15T08:28:00.002-04:00

I am really excited about this post ... aside from the gorgeous sketch and inspiration from the EBTKS ladies to work on, the highlight of the card I did is another passion {or should I say addiction} of mine ... SHOES!

When I saw this Fiskars' Girls Night collection, I just have to have it. The shoe stamp is simply gorgeous {just look at those heels!}. The sentiment is equally cool ... " if the shoe fits, buy one in every color"! That's every woman's dream isn't it?

I really had fun putting this card together and thank you so much Courtney for the opportunity to play along with your team again as your guest DT.

I hope you will play along with us and have fun while you do!

Mei Ann

A Different Kind of Guest Book

2010-05-13T09:38:00.009-04:00

Every time I design a layout, I am almost always inspired by the photo that I need to scrap. The pattern paper colors, embellishments and other details must highlight the photo/s at hand. So when I sat down with dear friend of mine to discuss the guest book {scrapbook style} for my godson's baptism this coming Saturday, I was challenged by the task at hand.

THE TASK: Make a layout for each family {33 families in total!!!}. The layout must have a place for a photo {of course!} and a space for the guest to write their message for my godson Cyrus. Quite simple {except for the number of pages that I need to work on :-)} right? But here's THE CHALLENGE: there's no photo to start with!!! The pictures that we want to put on the layouts will be taken on the day itself so that each family will have baby Cyrus with them when the picture is taken!!! But the pages has to be ready for the guest to write on!!! Now, this is what I call a blind layout design! I finished 22 already and I have 2 more nights to complete the task.

Here are some of them ....

More kids' stuff to come!

Mei Ann

Empty Nest

2010-05-11T07:12:00.007-04:00

I think I caught the brown & sea foam color combination bug! The current challenge from Embellish calls for using this color combo as well as green and terracotta.

Inspired by the challenge, I made this card for my hubby who will be out of town for a week of conference in Vancouver. He's not leaving until end of May but I missing him already!!!

Empty nest = emptiness!

Sigh,

Mei Ann

Pearls from Mom

2010-05-08T11:01:00.006-04:00

I am a "certified" Papa's girl. But I can't discount the pearls of wisdom I learned from my Mama. Most {if not all} of these "pearls" are kept in the core of my heart and like soft whispers, I hear them specially when I am at a crossroad of this journey caledl life!

For Mother's Day, I really want to make this piece of pearl as the focal point of my card for Mom. It is my way of expressing gratitude to my mother for the love and dedication she gave and still giving us through the years.

The fabulous colors of sea foam, brown, light green {gems} and terracotta are inspired by Embellish Color Challenge with Dimension. I created dimension on this card by using pop-up glue dots under the shell and sentiment. I was also inspired by this week's sketch from Get Sketchy which is just perfect for the shape of the shell.

"There is no velvet so soft as a mother's lap, no rose as lovely as her smile, no path as flowery as that imprinted with her footsteps." - A. Thompson

Thanks Mom!

Mei Ann

Let's Hang Out

2010-05-02T22:05:00.006-04:00

What a super busy weekend! It's First Communion time for most of the kids here in our neck of the woods. We currently have 5 Catholic Schools under the care of our Parish and our choir was requested to sing in all of the Masses for the First Communicants! So my weekend was full of Glorias and Halleluiahs! Glad to be able to do that for the community! Still, I was able to squeezed in some time to finish a card in between choir practices and Church services {and laundry, and cooking, and some office works too} .

The color palette at Play Date Cafe is too good to pass so I took out a couple of new stamps from Inkadinkadoo and G Studio and voila ....

.... a fun card for my hubby who was also busy this weekend running for Kids with Cancer.

It's a date dear. We will hang out together next weekend!

Cheers,

Mei Ann

EBTKS Challenge 14: Envelope

2010-04-30T06:56:00.005-04:00

I've been following the lovely creations of the ladies from Everything But The Kitchen Sink for some time now and never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that one day I'd be playing along with them as their Guest Designer! You can just imagine my excitement when I got the invitation! Thanks ladies!

The challenge this time around is to use "envelope" in the project. Here's my take ....

I found this old envelope from one of the letters my sister sent me in 2002. I applied light distress inks in Peeled Paint and Broken China to cover some blemishes on the old paper. Then I stamped the flower using one of my Hero Arts rubber stamps and sprayed the entire envelope with perfect pearl mist.

Adding to the authenticity of the envelope are original Philippines' postage stamps dated 2002. On the spot where my name and address where written, I placed a small post-it on which I stamped the "Just a Note" sentiment. When all is done I glued the back of this envelope on a white cardstock to make a card. Viola! It is now ready to be mailed again!

In my excitement the mojo just keep on flowing so I was able to whip up another card ....

Here's an Aussie-inspired gift card holder with the sand dune background and cowboy's hat and boots stickers from my stash.

Just perfect for an Outback Steakhouse gift card!

Thanks to the talented ladies at EBTKS for another unique inspiration . Head over there and see the other creations and better yet .... play along with us!

Cheers,

Mei Ann

So Thankful

2010-04-26T06:58:00.005-04:00

I found this dragonfly brooch when I was surfing the net one day and just fell in love with its vibrant summer colors.

With this beautiful Swarovski number in mind, I took our my Inkadinkadoo Gem Stone Insects collection and heat embossed the dragonfly with white embossing powder. Using Distress Inks in Broken China and Peeled Paint, i blended the two colors and sprayed the card with Perfect Pearl {you can't see it in this picture but the card shimmers when moved on different angles}. I added pearl gems to embellish the dragonflies.

There! Just a perfect card to be reminded of so many things to be thankful for .....

Happy Monday!

Mei Ann

14 Years After .... Still a Fairy Tale

2010-04-22T08:09:00.008-04:00

It started as a teenage wish of marrying a prince :-). God knew better and gave me a simple but a kindhearted man instead.

We don't have a castle but we have a HOME. We don't have little prince nor little princess but we have EACH OTHER. We don't have treasures but we have GOD in our midst. We don't a kingdom but we have LOVE greater than our hearts!

14 years after, it's still a fairy tale of wedded bliss!

Thank you my "prince" for 14 wonderful years.

{Pattered Paper from Kiki Art}

You complete me in ways I didn't even know existed.

... and we live happily ever after!

I heart you,
Mei Ann

We're The Perfect Blend

2010-04-21T08:00:00.004-04:00

My dear hubby and I are celebrating our 14th wedding anniversary tomorrow {big grin}! I've been busy making cards {yes, lots} for him {because he's complaining about the fact that I make cards mostly for other people but will only make card for him at the last minute} . This time I'll make sure he'll get what he deserves!

One of the cards is inspired by Moxie Fab World's Get Sketchy Challenge and EBTKS Challenge 13.

I adore this sentiment to the max! We are indeed a perfect blend in so many ways! We are peanut butter and jelly, french fries and catchup, pancake and maple syrup and most of all coffee and doughnut!!!!

I used Graphic 45 {Miss Manners} for my base card, the lovely sentiment is from Fiskars' Latte Love collection, the coffee mug and doughnut die cuts are from dollar store. To make the table top, I used EK punch and twisted a colored wire for the stand.

I had a smile on my lips while making this card .... it's for my other half, my perfect blend!

Mei Ann

Wishing you ....

2010-04-18T16:12:00.006-04:00

... lots of happiness, more gorgeous shoes and to die for bags on your birthday!

I'm blessed with 2 wonderful sisters-in law {hubby's sisters} who I love dearly like my one and only sister Jane. One of them loves shoes and bags and she has tons {as in tons} of them :-)! She's celebrating her birthday next week so I wish her more shoes, bags but most of all, endless happiness!

For her bday card, I used this gorgeous patterned paper from Kiki Art Antologia Jardin collection I got from Scrapfest yesterday. If you haven't had the chance to use Kiki Art pp, check out their awesome and colorful designs. You would love them! All embellishments are from my stash bought from dollar stores ages ago. To make her wishes come true, I stamped a fairy from G studio little princess collection. The sketch is inspired by Taylored Expressions sketch 109.

Happy birthday Manang! May all your wishes come true!

Mei Ann

Let's Party!

2010-04-16T22:52:00.009-04:00

Last month, our good friends Tracey and her husband Dave invited me and my hubby for Friday dinner at their home. We had fabulous Mexican cuisine. Next week, another good friends, Percy and his wife Kookie are inviting us for an authentic Indian cuisine at their home. We truly enjoy intimate dinners like these ... good food and wine + wonderful friends = pure bliss.

For our turn, hubby and I decided to invite both couples at home and we will prepare a fusion of Japanese and Korean dishes. As early as now, I am working on the invite and place cards for this occasion.

Very timely, Embellish magazine's current challenge is to create a party-themed projects. How perfect timing is that?

Keeping the Japanese/Korean theme in mind and the color scheme from the challenge, I got some chopsticks from the kitchen, took out my Hero Arts Japanese dolls collection, and my favorite red chiyogami paper. After an hour in my craft studio, here's my dinner invite ...

For place cards, I plan to use inverted Japanese tea cups with our guests' names on every cup and assemble the chopsticks and a stamped Japanese dolls on top like this ....

Soooo lovely! I'm sure our friends would love this treat together with my hubby's special Korean beef BBQ with kimchi, miso soup, sushi, ebi tempura and mochi balls with green tea ice cream for dessert!

Can't wait to party!

Domo arigato,

Mei Ann

Easy Breezy and Classy

2010-04-15T07:45:00.003-04:00

When time is not on my side and I need to make cards for regular clients, I always turn to Webster's Pages patterned papers for a quick but elegant solution. Most of their designs can be used as focal points and do not require heavy embellishments to be beautiful like this one....

I just added a sheer ribbon to add femininity, a simple red button to complement the rich red color and some floating butterflies ....voila!

Have fun today,

Mei Ann

Blushing

2010-04-14T07:34:00.006-04:00

I almost fell from my chair when I saw my card as the winner for the "string challenge" at Everything but the Kitchen Sink! Thank you soooo much ladies. You really made me happy and honored!

I love my Kitchen Sink even more {insert double happy faces here}!

Blushing,

Mei Ann

It Took Me So Long ....

2010-04-13T08:24:00.012-04:00

.... to find a copy of Go To Sketches Magazine until my dear hubby found the last copy at Michaels! There on page 94 is fun and funky Kim Kesti's sketch #28! After devouring the magazine from cover to cover, it didn't take me long to finish this card.

I got this little turtle from a local dollar store {6 pieces for 1 buck}, isn't he/she cute? For patterned papers, I used Heidi Grace design { Row of Icons}, American Crafts {How's it going?} and aqua velum paper for sea effect. Sun and sand embellishments are from Michaels.

I really had fun working on this design. Thanks Moxie Fab World! You really know how to boost the mojos in us.

Waiting for summer,

Mei Ann

REPURPOSED

2010-04-11T09:37:00.004-04:00

I bought this cute pin cushion {I named her LBD as in Little Black Dress} about 2 years go when my hubby got me a sewing machine for Christmas. Since I don't spend much time sewing {this must change because I need new curtains for summer!}, my LBD ended up as knick-knack on top of my stamping area. Until recently ....

.... I started pinning LBD with reminders of card orders, challenges deadlines and sketches that I find interesting.

From just a knick-knack to something useful! Next week, I'll dress her with fuchsia post it ... she'll love that color!

Happy Sunday,

Mei Ann

Strings Attached

2010-04-08T22:57:00.006-04:00

When I read the "String" challenge from Everything but the Kitchen Sink blog, I said I won't let this challenge pass me by. I don't think I've used a piece of string in any of my card so this would be fun. But as days go by, I can't think of a unique design that I like where I can highlight the string until early this morning when I was drinking my .... TEA!

For my background, I used We R Memory Keepers Vintage Blue Just Dandy collection (my current favorite pp} and "You're tea-riffic" sentiment from Fiskars' Latte Love collection.

This is one card that will definitely go to my collection. I really enjoy looking at it in the same way I'm enjoying my night tea!

Thanks for visiting,

Mei Ann

I Need to .... Relax

2010-04-07T07:12:00.005-04:00

It's one of those days {I should say week} when I feel like I'm on a roller coaster ..... up, down, slow then very fast ..... moving but not really going anywhere! In moments like these, this is what I need to do....

.... soak and relax in mint and rosemary scented bubble bath ! But before I do that, I thought I'd share this card I did for my friend Tara's birthday.

Inspired by Stamping 411 SSC 145 sketch, I used patterned papers from Paper Pizzaz and inked one of my favorite stamps from my stash ... Who's That Girl - Time for the Bubbly Collection and I stamped the chandelier from Prima for added glamor.

I hope you will find time to relax and really enjoy the day. I plan to do that myself!

Mei Ann

Jesus Christ is Risen Today ...

2010-04-04T22:43:00.009-04:00

.... Alleluiah! I've been singing this song since our choir practice at 10 AM today then sang my heart out during the Easter Mass at 12 Noon and still singing the same song until now. It's one of those songs that really makes me happy.

Happy Easter everyone!

I was busy last night making Easter cards {both religious and contemporary designs} and this one happens to be my favorite so I gave it to my hubby.

This is inspired by CPS and Act 24 Curtain Call Color Challenge.

I stamped the tree on the background using Inkadinkado Topiary collection. I waited a couple of minutes for the ink to dry completely then stamped and heat embossed the sentiment {from G stdio} over the background. For a little shine, I dusted some Ranger powder pearls on the tree and sentiment. You can't see the effect on the picture above but when the card is placed against direct light, the effect is awesome!

P.S.

Pope John Paul ll once said .... "We are the children of Easter and our song is Halleluiah!" I never doubted that for a second even at time when I am not the child He wants me to be.

Hubby and I after singing at Easter mass

From our household to yours .... A blessed and meaningful Easter.

Lace and Red Wine

2010-04-02T22:44:00.009-04:00

This week's Caardvarks challenge is all about lace. I saw this post a while back and put it on my "must to do" list simply because I love lace. My love affair with lace goes as far as liking Judge Judy's black dress with white lace trimmings she wears on her show !!!

For the Lacy Days challenge, I made this card using Prima black lace to embellish the belt and added the lace on the skirt to create a billowing effect on the dress. I'd say this card is very versatile ... it can be a birthday card {specially for somebody who loves to dance}, a bridal shower card or even to congratulate a girlfriend who lost some weight!

Before I end this post, I have to add where I got my inspiration for the card. I was sipping a glass of red wine while sitting on my craft studio thinking how to put together the dress template, the black or white lace and the red felt. While deep in thoughts, this is what I'm looking at ...

Truly, inspirations are everywhere and anything! We just need to be more sensitive and learn how to communicate to our artistic side. Do you agree?

Ciao,

Mei Ann

He Cared This Much ....

2010-04-02T10:44:00.003-04:00

" In manus tuas, Domine, commendo spiritum meum."

Embellished!

2010-03-31T16:55:00.003-04:00

I stayed home today nursing a bad cold. Feeling weak and groggy form my meds ... then I found this ....

Woot woot! I'm hot :-) not from fever but from Embellish Fabric Color Challenge! Yup, that's my card {Mei Ann G.}. Thanks ladies! You made my day!

Cheers,

Mei Ann

"Paper Love at First Sight"

2010-03-30T21:41:00.008-04:00

I stopped by our local Scrapbook supply store on my way home from work and saw their new We R Memory Keepers - Vintage Blue collection. It was "paper love at first sight !!!

Oh boy they are gorgeous - the colors and graphics are so vibrant. You can almost hear them calling your name {well, paper addicts :-) know exactly what I'm talking about}. Yeah, yeah, I'm weak, I gave in and took them home.

I worked on the first one as soon as I got home. It will be a waste not to use both sides of the paper so I cut 1 inch strip and alternately glue them together for my background. I then stamped and paper piece the flowers so I can submit the card to Moxi Fab World - Picking Up the Pieces Challenge.

I'm telling you, only fools rush in but can't help falling in paper love with these collection.

Sigh.

Mei Ann

My Realm of Papers, Inks and Ideas

2010-03-29T15:27:00.010-04:00

I love and treasure every nook and cranny of our home simply because we collected a lot of happy memories over the last 5 years in this home . Because we are child-free {not by choice}, my dear hubby and I find ourselves spending a lot of time together in the kitchen experimenting new dishes, in the family room watching our favorite shows or singing on Friday nights, in our bedroom quietly recounting our days at work, in our home office comparing our work loads or even in the garden sipping a glass of wine while thinking of the next flowering plant to add to our tiny collection.

There's one room in the house though that I call my REALM of papers and inks, my BIRTHING ROOM of ideas, my NICHE. Hold on a sec, come to think of it I can't say it's completely mine because hubby insisted on adding a small lounge chair for him so he can just sit there to read a book or play with his camera when I am busy stamping or designing a layout.

Welcome to my world ....

This room used to be our 3rd guest room and we decided to convert it to my craft studio when we can't find enough space in our home office to organize the growing numbers of patterned papers, stamps, spools of ribbons and other tools.

This is the stamping area....

I'm always partial to blue, teal and white colors - they have a calming effect on me so if I'm buying something for this room, I keep these colors in mind.

My "techie and tools" desk....

My hubby's corner....

The small lounge chair we got on sale from IKEA almost 7 years ago is my hubby's little corner. During winter time, it's so comfy to just sit there with a thick wool blanket and hot chocolate while watching falling snowflakes on the window.

I've always wanted a space where I can draw, cut papers, glue things together, stamp or even just stare at colors until ideas are born. Nothing extravagant. Just something I can call "MY CRAFT STUDIO". Sounds nice. Looks nice {to me, at least}. Clean. Organized. It's my realm. Welcome.

Thanks for visiting.

Mei Ann

Palm Sunday

2010-03-28T21:13:00.005-04:00

Today marks the beginning of Holy Week. Jesus' triumphant entry to Jerusalem {before his passion and death} is commemorated by million of Catholics world-wide. After singing at Mass this morning I made this simple card in remembrance of Palm Sunday.

Praise to you Lord, King of eternal glory!

Je Me Souviens {I remember}

2010-03-27T15:58:00.006-04:00

I was so excited when I read Moxi Fab World's Picking Up the Pieces Challenge. Lately. I'm enjoying cutting the details of fancy pattered papers and create a scene like what I did here and here.

So last night I searched for a photo taken by my hubby one breezy Sunday afternoon in "Ville de Montreal" where we lived for more than 3 years before moving permanently here in Ontario. I love Montreal and I really miss walking along the streets of Vieux Montreal where the "old world" blends beautifully with modern cafes, galleries, vibrant open market and colorful flower shops. I want to re-capture those afternoons we spent just strolling or people watching {who by the way are always dressed like they just came out from a fashion photo shoots} or picking fresh flowers or even just smelling the freshly-baked croissant from the "boulangerie" in a layout.

To re-create these scenes, I used Webster's pages "salon les fleur" from their postcard from Paris collection. I also cut out papers from old greetings cards sent to me by 2 of my friends { sorry, ladies. i kept the dedication though :-)} Can't help to stamp something on the layout so I added the birdbath {which I love so much} from Inkadinkado and the postcard stamp {used as background for the photo} from Prima.

Ah, Quebec, tu es la belle province! Je me souviens! A bientot!

Bonne fete semaine,

Mei Ann

In Bloom

2010-03-25T22:24:00.004-04:00

It took me a good 20 minutes to meticulously cut the details of this supposedly "cherry blossoms". I almost gave up but good thing I did not because I love how this card turned out!

I found this patterned paper from my DCWV Far East Stack. Instead of using it as a background on this card, I decided to make bloom as the focal point. To add some contrast to the orange-red flower, I stamped the birdbath from my Inkadinkado utopiary collection.

The sketch was inspired by this week's CPS challenge. Those ladies never fail to trigger my mojo!

Thanks for visiting,
Mei Ann

A Perfect 10

2010-03-24T20:10:00.004-04:00

My dear friend and colleague Patty just celebrated her 10th year in our company. Seeing her in action with so much passion and enthusiasm, you would think that it's her first day instead of a decade! Way to go Patty!!! Here's to 10 more awesome years....

I just love how this Stamping Bella stamp captured Patty's vibrant personality.

Ciao Bella,

Mei Ann

A "Glow"-rious Day

2010-03-22T19:34:00.006-04:00

It's great to see the sun shining again after a gloomy weekend. I know it's not going to last though as rain is expected tomorrow. But hey, it's Monday and there's a lot of things to look forward to ... rain or shine!

I'd like to start my work week with this simple card inspired by EMBELLISH magazine using fabric as part of the design.

I used Prima felt flowers highlighted by red buttons and embellished the stamped chandelier with green gems.

Happy Monday! Hope your week will be glow-rious!

Mei Ann

Mary's Little Lambs

2010-03-21T20:23:00.011-04:00

My husband and I visited our friends' {Marg and Doug} farm a couple of weeks ago. One of the highlights of our farm tour was the visit to the the flock of lambs cared for by a very young shepherd, named Justin.

Seeing the lambs up close, so gentle and trusting to their shepherd reminded me my all time favorite Psalm 23 ... "The Lord is my Shepherd, whom shall I be afraid?"

Ever since I saw the lambs, I wanted to make a card with them on it. So I made this 'Wool" Miss You card for Jamez, our choir pianist {& a good friend too} who will be away for some time.

"Wool" really miss you Jamez! The flock is waiting for your return!

Mei Ann

Men's World

2010-03-19T08:38:00.006-04:00

Creating a birthday card for a guy is always a challenge for me. I can't put flowers or ribbons or lace to embellish it. That's why I'm so thrilled when Em, the owner of Stamping Bella introduced me to this stamp set when I visited her yummy store last week. I thought the stamp set really captured the world of my colleague Dave who is celebrating his birthday on Monday. Well, maybe not the fancy boxer shorts which I embellished with glitters! HA :-)!

TGIF .....

Mei Ann

Shamrock and Roll

2010-03-17T22:13:00.010-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

I was browsing the Moxifab Fab World blog this morning and found this inspiration for Tuesday Trigger ....

I just love these colors! In fact these are the same colors that adorn our home.

Since it's all about green today, why not a green cake? I baked this chocolate-pistachio cream cake for our church choir practice. Yum O!

Making this cake is as easy and fun as making my St. Patty's card.

You don't need LUCK at all!

It's all about the green...

Mei Ann

Blooms and Butterflies

2010-03-15T20:50:00.007-04:00

Daylight Saving Time begun last Saturday night. I know it's just an hour change but it never fails to disrupt my sleeping pattern! The only good thing about it is the fact that spring is just lurking around the corner!!!! Inspired by the thought of blooming flowers and butterflies, I made a couple of "Thank You" cards ....

I stamped and heat embossed the butterflies {Inkadinkado stamp} with clear embossing power and applied chalk inks in green, orange, brown and yellow using resist technique. I embellished the bow with a vintage button I found at Salvation Army store.

For the second card, I used my Hero Art flower stamp on white cardstock and heat embossed with black embossing powder.

I sprayed a touch of copper perfect pearl mist {Ranger} to match the orange bow. I added the aqua gems which I thought are nice contrast to the black blooms.

Nature is such an excellent inspiration. The sketch over at CPS is an icing on the cake too!

Don't you just love Mondays? I do.

Mei Ann

Old World Baby

2010-03-13T17:32:00.006-05:00

Today we welcome baby Paul Matthew, our dear friends' baby boy to the Christian world. When I was at my craft studio this morning to make card for him, I decided I don't want a typical baby inspired design but something that will highlight a symbol of Christianity from the old world ... Then I thought of those beautiful century old baptismal fonts I saw in different churches in Italy.

My Inkadinkado Utopiary birdbath stamp looks like a baptismal font and to get the antique look, I apply "kissing" technique with perfect pearls from Ranger. I added the baby blue ribbon and baby sentiment for a little touch of "modern" baby design.

An old world baby indeed!

Thanks for visiting,
Mei Ann

Fine Dinning and Craft

2010-03-08T21:13:00.013-05:00

My friend Tara hosted a dinner for her mom's 60th birthday last weekend. It was held at her beautiful house with the table fashioned like a fine dining restaurant. The food was catered and the wines were abundant. Three days before the event she told me she wanted a place card and menu for every guest .... "similar to what we had during the gala dinner at the Palazzo in Italy", she said.

Well, I don't have a fancy printing press but I have some papers, ribbons, punchers, stamps and my imagination so here's what I've created....

Not bad huh? With excellent food, good wine, loved ones and fine craft on the table, you can't have better than that!

Cheers!

In Love with Kraft

2010-03-01T07:54:00.009-05:00

I was browsing my paper stash a couple of weekends ago and found at least 5 sheets of Kraft paper. I seldom use Kraft in my previous projects but I just fell in love with it after neglecting it for along time.

Working with Kraft is like cooking with eggplant or tofu :-) It looks bland on its own but will absorb colors and patterns and perfectly blend them together! I just LOVE it!

Happy Monday!

BAMBI

2010-02-26T22:14:00.007-05:00

I was driving up north this morning and saw a deer wandering gracefully on the forest ground covered in a blanket of snow. The road was empty so I pulled over and watch "little Bambi" enjoying the falling snow flakes unmindful of my presence. Too bad I don't have my camera with me, so I just captured the moment in my mind and went straight to my craft studio as soon as I got home.

I stamped the deer on white cardstock paper using my Friendly Forest stamp and attached it on a glittered velum.

I stamped the snowflakes {Paper Company Sudio} directly on Jillibean "chit chat" kraft paper using clear embossing powder and glitter to capture the falling snow.

Ahhh ... the wonder and beauty of nature!

Happy weekend!

Baby Girl

2010-02-25T09:14:00.007-05:00

Don't you just like making cards for a baby girl? Don't get me wrong ... I LOVE babies ... boys and girls ... but there's something about the color PINK .. maybe it reminds me of my happy childhood .. pink lace dresses, pink ribbons on my hair and matching pink and white socks.

I made this baby girl card for my friend Andrea and her beautiful baby Neve inspired by CPS 155.

Have a nice Thursday!

Moxi Fab Week

2010-02-24T22:13:00.008-05:00

This is going to be a fun week in my craft studio. The ladies at the Moxie Fab World are hosting a challenge to create stamped cards for different occasions ... birthday, thank you, thinking of you, love and season's greetings. Just the thought of making a Christmas card in February thrills me! Why not give this challenge a try?

Here's my take on the "THANK YOU" category.

Thanks!

Little Creatures Mix and Match

2010-02-21T21:00:00.009-05:00

I was at Michael's last Saturday and found these rubber stamps in the bargain bin. For a dollar each, I thought these cute little creatures by craftsmart are quite a steal! As spring is just around the corner, these cuties will definitely be busy.

I used the branch of the owl stamp to create trees planted on a hill and stamped and cut the little birdie as the focal point.

The sentiment is from my hero arts collection. A true mix and match!

Best Cross Award No More!

2010-02-18T09:12:00.008-05:00

When I was lot younger, I always look forward to going with my mom to church on Ash Wednesday so I can get that "black thing' on my forehead. I would try my very best not to touch it so I would win the "best cross contest" my friends and I would play at the end of the day. Oh to be a child again ... when life is just a game to play!

Yesterday, when Fr. Laszlo made the sign of the cross on my forehead with the ash, he said "repent and spread the Gospel". Tough call huh? Life is not simply a game anymore. I've realized that a long time ago.

This time I touched the ash ... no friends to beat for the best cross award... this time the ash reminded me of my immortality. A borrowed life which hopefully I will be able to return to it's rightful Maker in due time .... maybe bruised, sinned, and broken several times but forgiven, loved and worthy to be called daughter of Christ!!!

Here's an entry to my journal ... February 17th 2010 ... Ash Wednesday.

Memories of New Orleans

2010-02-16T21:13:00.015-05:00

Today is Mardi Gras {Fat Tuesday} and it's party time in the Big Easy! I had the pleasure of visiting New Orleans a year before Huricane Katrina. It was one of those rare trips where I traveled alone. I spent 3 days discovering the beauty and serenity of the Garden district, the non-stop party ambiance along Rue Bourbon in the French Quarter, the century old houses in the plantation area, the wilderness of the Bayou swamp and oh, the out of this world voodoo shops!

Who can forget the the spicy crawfish gumbo in between glasses of "Hurricane" {a red rum mixture} at Pat O'Brian's, the beignet and hickory coffee at Cafe du Monde and the Turtle Soup I had at Arnaud's.

One can never get enough of New Orleans ... "I'm going back someday come what may to Blue Bayou"! While I'm saving nickels and dimes, I'll settle on this collage I made out of mementos from my the previous trip.

Tweet for my Sweet

2010-02-14T10:12:00.017-05:00

"Each day with you becomes a Valentine.
I {heart} you forever!"

Happy Heart's Day everyone!

Floral Embellishments

2010-02-13T23:09:00.013-05:00

Nichole Heady and the ladies @ Papertrey Inc. are hosting another challenge : Design a floral embellishment, then create a card using one and and an acetate sheet of them to share.

I had fun doing this ... the good thing about this card is that all of the materials are leftover from previous projects. On top of that I can give this accetate with the same design to another crafty friend!

This is for you Bea! I hope you will enjoy it in the same way I enjoyed making it!

Asian Fusion

2010-02-12T17:51:00.010-05:00

Being born and raised in Manila, Philippines, I had the privilege of traveling to our neighboring Asian cities like Hong Kong, Saigon, Macau, Bangkok and Guangzhou. There's always something about these places that you want to bring home with you to make the memories last a lifetime.

When my hubby and I migrated here in Canada, I made sure to bring along with us bits and pieces of our Asian heritage which up to this date influence my taste in home decor and even my craft stash.

I'm so excited when I learned that Papertray Inc. is launching an Asian inspired stamp in a couple of days!!! Can't wait to get one to complete my collection. In the meantime, I want to share this origami Japanese dolls I made using chiyogami papers from Japan.

Thanks for dropping by.

Afternoon Tea .... and More

2010-02-12T07:07:00.015-05:00

Some of my BFFs from work dropped by the house around 4 yesterday afternoon to see my progress after the car accident I shared here in my blog a few days ago. They came bearing heart-warming gifts, Starbucks goodies and lots of updates. Just seeing and hugging them all really made my day!

I asked my hubby to bring out my English tea cups and matching saucers collected from out-of-town garage sales. Something crafty on the buffet table was this tiny place card I made using a designers' coffee button I got from Michael's a long time ago ....

Just in case they want something stronger than tea or coffee, I made sure a bottle of red and white wines are handy dandy ...

I made this matching place card using my "bottom's up" Stamping Bella and Gelly Roll markers ...

And look at the gifts they brought me ...

Yes, I'm addicted to Archie comics, I am a food and wine fanatic and on my to do list is to learn how to knit. Only true friends pay attention to little details like these!!!

You guys are awesome ... I am so blessed to have you as FRIENDS!

Love in Black and White

2010-02-11T10:48:00.014-05:00

I love colors but for some reasons, I was drawn to the black and white papers resting on my craft desk. I thought these very elegant colors fit the classic sketch posted on CPS card challenge.

Come to think of it, when the heart speaks, it doesn't matter if you are black or white!

A New Life

2010-02-09T20:50:00.013-05:00

Blessed! That's what I am!

I was in serious car accident last Thursday morning. I can't remember much of it except for the fact that the "jaws of life" were used to free me from my car wherein I was trapped for more than 20 minutes. Suspecting head injuries, I was airlifted to the trauma unit of a downtown hospital in Toronto where I spent 2 days for tests and further observation. Morphine injections eased the pain on my neck, shoulders and back.

Today, 5 days after, I can sit upright with support on my neck and back. I am still in pain but nothing compares to the gratefulness and happiness that fill my heart. I am so BLESSED to be ALIVE and tell the tale!

2.04.2010 The day I received the gift of a NEW LIFE. Blessed be the name of my Lord for I am truly blessed, loved, treasured, protected, grateful and happy!

Frame It Like Mei Ann

2010-02-01T06:24:00.008-05:00

I just crossed out "purge craft room" on my TO DO list and my oh my, the amount of leftover patterned papers {from previous projects} sitting on my desk are more than enough to last me another year of crafting! I don't have the heart to throw them away so I took out old wood frames I bought from IKEA way way back and replaced the old postcards with these....

I thought there's no better place to hang them than above my desk in my home office.

It didn't end there {told you I have tons of scarps to work with} ... I came up with a butterfly-themed postcards that now adorn the reading area of my craft room.

Next time you clean your scrap room, don't just put your scraps in the bin, why don't you frame it like Mei Ann!

Ciao,

Dreaming Heaven via AVATAR

2010-01-31T00:03:00.011-05:00

My hubby and I saw AVATAR in 3D on Christmas Day. Paying a whooping 20 bucks each was not part of the plan but the shock of paying that much for a movie vanished as soon as I saw the magical place of Pandora! In my mind, heaven is pretty much like Pandora ... glowing foliage, serene lakes and waterfalls, and whimsical creatures. But instead of fairies, angels fly aimlessly.

I bought these stamps during one of our trips at Joan's in the US and just didn't have the chance to use them. So, I thought I'll re-create my own AVATAR and dream of heaven on earth ....

Dream on .... ah, pure bliss!