Harry Potter Album

Life is Good, becasue I have good friends

Having good friends is such a great blessing. I am so fortunate to have the friendship of such wonderful people. Through church relationships I have gained so many wonderful friends and acquaintances. Most wonderfully, my dearest friends the Holy Scrappers. We are all so different: each one bringing a totally different set of talents, skills, strengths, and weaknesses into the relationship. Never before have I had so many really good friends at one time. Cathy, Terry, Kathy, and Kat, I believe, from the bottom of my heart, that you make me younger, happier, and healthier.

Animal Kingdom Mini Album
I have finally completed this mini, and I UIU--used it up (Bo Bunny Zoology paper). I used all but a few scraps, and I even dug into the stash for a few other papers and cardstock. It is a very large mini which was originally inspired by Kathy Orta's zoology mini, then took on a life of it's own. I used Kathy's burlap cover idea, though. She is awesome (check out Paper Phenomenon). I will try to take photos of the album, and post within the week.

Now I have to finish that Chrirstmas present album using the Harry Potter papers.

Train to Trieste

I listen to books each day on my way to and from work. This week I listened to Train to Trieste by Domnica Radulescu. While it is a novel, the story comes from the authors own experience of living in Romania during the reign of Ceausescu, and escaping her native country. While I like reading books over listening, this is one that was really worth listening to. The accent of the reader, Yelena Shmulenson, a Ukrainian actress, makes it seem like it is really the main character telling the story. Totally enjoyable.

Phoenix Scrapbook Cottage Rocks!

Saturday two friends and I went to the Phoenix Scrapbook Cottage. It is in a charming craftsman style house near downtown Phoenix. This was my third time there, and as before, I got so much done. While I didn't finish the long overdue Christmas gift for my boss, I am much closer to done. I also started the mini documenting our January trip to the Animal Kingdom at Disney World. It is so nice to spread out, have good company, and work without the disruptions of daily life.

While I totally enjoyed the luch at Zoe's cafe, and our take out dinner from the taco shop near Safeway (sorry, don't remember the name Chicos???) Next time I think I will bring food and stay in the cottage all day to get more done. (They always have some nice treats at the cottage, and a supply of sodas. I really miss sodas. Wish I could drink them in good conscience. There is just nothing like a real thing! I have to admit to cheating a little lately.)

When we were there the first time I completed a steampunk themed album. The next time I made a complete Christmas album, and though I had intended to give it as a Christmas gift, I liked it so much I kept it. Something about being there all day just makes it easier to scrap. The delightful company of Cathy and Terri makes it even better. I am so blessed to have good friends who love the same things I do.

Ouch!

I tripped when I was on my way home from walking Rowdy. Injured both my hands. Now they are in splints, and I only have good use of my left hand. Right is far worse. Looks like not much more crafting for me in the near future. I have so much to do, too. And the 3rd we have reservations for a day long scrap retreat, too! I am so bummed.

gone--never forgotten

My uncle Kenny Melby died a few weeks ago. I have been rather numb ever since. Kenny was much more a father to me than my own father was. When I was very young, I moved from my mother's to live with my paternal grandmother, Madge, and my aunt and uncle, Jeanne and Kenny. Even after their own daughter was born, they were always there for me. Everything from making me meals to kissing me goodnight. Taking me to school, getting me to church, teaching me to drive: all things I counted on either Jeanne or Kenny to do for me.

I learned what a good marriage is from them and my other aunts and uncles. I learned how to love unconditionally from them. For someone who, though parents were living, was essentially an orphan, I was so totally loved by my grandmother and my extended family.

How then can I not grieve?  I hadn't been home in many years. I always intended to, but life always interfered. I kept thinking, "I will do it next year," but I didn't. So I didn't see those people I love most in this world (aside from my husband and daughter), and now one is no longer with us. I am still feeling a lot of guilt about that. I am also concerned about my aunt Jeanne. How does one get over the loss of the one they have loved and lived with since she was 18 years old? At the funeral she said to me, "I just can't believe I will never be able to talk to him again." My heart broke for her, for the loneliness that is sure to engulf her on occation.

I know Kenny had the straight path to heaven, for he was truly the kindest, most loving, faithful man. He was an example of what Christian looks like. St. Kenny, pray for us.