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Friendly Halloween

Good morning! 
I’m so bummed I wasn’t able to post Friday or Saturday- I had some things I wanted to share! Alas, the computer I edit photos on decided to act up and I couldn’t do anything. Thankfully, it has decided to cooperate (for now) and I was able to clear out some old files- hopefully we are good for a little while!
I was doing a little blog hopping over the weekend and saw the latest Retro Sketches #29 posted. I just couldn’t resist joining in on this one! Here’s the sketch and what I came up with: 
I saw a few of the samples highlighted Halloween stamps and I was inspired to do the same. This year, over at DeNami Design, we released the adorable Friendly Mummy and I just had to use him. I’m not a fan of scary or grotesque images, but the cute ones I absolutely LOVE!
 
This card is super simple, but I actually enjoy the clean and simplistic design. Sometimes less is more, right? I wanted to brighten up the card with a pop of color, so I added in the orange twine and orange button. Two easy additions that really make the card, in my opinion. 

I hope you enjoyed the card today. I’ll be back either later today or tomorrow (hopefully) with the highlights of the latest 10 Minute Craft Dash. Talk with you all soon!

Thankful Thursday: September 13th

Hello!

Thank you to all who have been checking in on me. On Tuesday I had not one by THREE MRI’s done- neck, back and brain. As of yet, no news yet from the various doctors. Hopefully we’ll get some answers in the next couple of days. Later on today, I have a food panel test (which I’ve never done before), to see if something I ate may have caused all of this. Still not back to normal, but overall, we’re seeing improvements in the right direction.

Despite all of this, I’m reminded to count my blessings. Here’s my Thankful Thursday list for this week:

  • Salted Carmel Mochas. I’m so happy they’re back at Starbucks! Makes even a crummy morning a little brighter.
  • Boots. It’s been chilly when I leave in the mornings, so I’ve been wearing my different boots and forgot how much I love them. (They’re SO much more comfortable than heels!)  
  • Massage Therapy. I had my first session yesterday and I can already feel some tension released and my back stretched a little more. It’ll be a while, but I’m so grateful for the relief of some pressure off my neck and shoulders.
  • Such amazing and caring parents who are doing everything they can for me right now. I’m so very blessed!
  • YOU. My blog readers are so incredibly sweet. I’ve received some cards and gifts and am blown away by your giving hearts.

Well, my dear blog friends, that’s it for me. What are YOU thankful for this week? It doesn’t matter if they’re small, big, silly or random things- let’s just take time to count our blessings. :)

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Things I’ve Learned

Hi all!

Today I have a MRI scheduled, so I’d appreciate prayers, happy thoughts, etc…. out of everything so far, this is the thing that scares me the most. I’m hoping it turns out “normal”, but then again, if it does, we’re onto more tests and such. I was hoping that almost three weeks in I’d have a few more answers… definitely learning patience in all of this.

Two weeks ago, while I was laying with a heat pack on my neck, I came up with this little list of things I’ve learned recently. It’s rather humorous (well, I think it is)– hopefully you can get a laugh out of it. :)

  • There’s a channel dedicated to game shows. Family Feud may have been watched for three consecutive hours a few days in a row.
  • There are still good people out there. So thankful those who found me were caring and nice!
  • Heat and ice packs don’t get the credit they deserve. Lifesavers for sure.
  • Popsicles make you forget your pain for approximately 4 minutes.
  • Even after eating pizza 6 days in a row, I still wasn’t sick of it.
  • Holding your neck up takes quite a bit of energy and muscle.
  • There is no such thing as too many naps.
  • Getting an EKG done reminds me of getting a car battery jumped.
  • There are some good looking paramedics out there. Just putting that out there.
  • Doctor visits sometimes bring more frustration than answers.
  • You can have the best nurse and doctor in the world, but it still isn’t fun to see them.
  • My sense of humor has not diminished….if anything, it’s gotten worse.
  • My OCD stays intact even when I’m in pain. I may have seen things on the floor and pulled out the vacuum. It took all my energy, but it was bothering me to no end.
  • Your true friends are made known during difficult times.

Yes, this was completely random. I guess that’s a little glimpse into my personality. My real life friends know I can be super random sometimes. Occasionally they’ll just laugh when I bring up an off-the-wall thought or comment. :)

Question: what is something you’ve learned recently? I can’t wait to read your lists! Thanks for sticking with me in this post. I promise, the next one won’t be so random!

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Thanks A Bunch + Instagram

Hi there!
Today I have a sweet and simple card to share that I made using the current 10 Minute Craft Dash #2 colors (and of course, it took less than 10 minutes). It’s amazing how much can be accomplished in such a short amount of time- just take a look at some of the entries we’ve received already!
Time it took to create: 7 minutes 3 seconds
Lately, I’ve had to rely on a lot of people to help me with various things, due to the accident. I’m still not fully over my anxiety over driving, so my family and friends have been chauffeuring me around to my various appointments. This little card design will come in handy when I give people thank you cards for all they have done.

Would you believe that I only used TWO stamps on this card? Both of these stamps are so versatile and perfect all year round. (complete supply list below) 

I hope you’ll join along in the 10 Minute Craft Dash! There’s still five days left to enter AND we have an awesome prize this time around. Also, be sure to check out the amazing samples our special designers created- they will blow you away!

In closing, for those who are on Instagram and participate….join along in the hashtag fun!

Back to School Blog Hop

Hello and good morning! 
It’s time for the DeNami September Blog Hop- the theme is: Back to School! I was a little nervous about this one, I had no idea what I was going to create. Then, with my neck/ back flaring up, I didn’t know if I would be able to actually make something. Thankfully, I was able to make something AND I think it looks cute! Win- win!   
(Side note: stamping while not being able to move your neck is SUPER hard to do)
If you started the hop from the beginning, you’ll be coming from Dana Seymour’s blog– I heart that talented girl! Don’t worry, if you’re one of my followers and this is the first stop for you, click on over to the DeNami blog to start at the beginning. 
I decided to create both a card and project with this theme. Last year, I bought this darling little clipboard at Target (my favorite store) and it’s been sitting in my craft studio waiting to be used. While I was look at my supplies, I realized this would be PERFECT for this blog hop theme. I added some patterned paper and then created notebook paper!

How cute is this card and clipboard together? Creating something like this would be great if your kiddo has trouble remembering what things need to be brought to school.

Notice any new DeNami products? See that awesome alphabet twill ribbon? We have that in stock and will be selling it soon! (We’ll post the link on the DeNami FB page and blog when it’s available)

I hope you were inspired by this post, along with all the other blog hop stops. Don’t forget, leave comments on each blog for your highest chance of winning of a $20 DeNami gift certificate! 
That’s going to wrap up this post and the blog hop- see you tomorrow for another crafty creation! 
 

Purpose in Life…..

You all know, I write from the heart. Whether it be something I’ve struggled with in the past, things I’m going through now, I lay it out there. Sometimes I feel vulnerable putting myself “out there” like I do, but then it is those times when I get the emails and comments saying what I’ve written has helped someone, or that they can relate to me. Hearing how my struggles/ journey has helped others has impacted me in such a big way. It’s humbling, mind boggling, amazing and crazy all wrapped into one. :)

In the past, I won’t pretend I didn’t write for the blog comments. It’s ALWAYS reassuring to get some blog love and see that someone actually reads your posts. However, lately, I’m not so much concerned with the number of comments I receive as much as what those comments are saying. Hearing “your post inspired me to _________” or “your outlook on __________ really challenged me”- THOSE are the things I strive now here on the blog. I absolutely love that I’m able to inspire people through my blogs- whether it be in my weight loss journey, crafting endeavors, or making the most out of life. My goal is to do my best to continue this. But moving deeper…..

Being at the age I am, I struggle with knowing my ultimate purpose in life. The things beyond sharing the love of Christ to those around me. Beyond being a loyal daughter/friend/sister. I’m talking about what does God have me placed on Earth to do? I know so many people around me that have felt their calling in life, but I have yet to experience that. Honestly, it’s been lingering in my mind for a couple years, but with the accident, it’s in the forefront now. It’s completely obvious that God has SOMETHING still here for me to do, or I wouldn’t have survived. The question is: what is it? Will He reveal it to me soon?

Have any of you struggled with this in the past? Or possibly you’re going through this now? Have a story on how you knew YOUR calling? While I may inspire some of you, many of YOU inspire me. :) I would LOVE to hear about your stories or even thoughts on this subject.

That’s going to wrap up this post. Big, big hugs to you all. ♥

  

Thankful Thursday: September 6th

Hello!

Oh boy, this is going to be a difficult post. These two weeks have been hard, but these last couple days have been hardest. I was thinking that I was recovering and then all of a sudden I was setback…A LOT. The pain has increased and now I’m dealing with a new slew of issues. It doesn’t look like I’ll be “back to normal” super quickly– I’m still not able to work full days, drive and my movement is still super limited. I’m hoping that with each day, I’ll start feeling better and able to get back to my old routine. For those who have been praying for me, thank you!

Even in the midst of all these issues, I know I still have things to be thankful for. Here’s my list for this week:

  • The car I was driving is repaired and appears to be working great.
  • I’ve been able to go to the chiropractor and we have a plan to fix my neck/ back/ spine.
  • A great family that is willing to drive me to the various places I need to go.
  • Twitter friends who have quickly real life friends who make me laugh.
  • Friends who drive out over an hour to spend time with me and take me to lunch.

Last week, I was beyond blessed and encouraged to see your Thankful Thursdays lists. There were 16 amazing stories/ lists- each one was neat to read! Let’s keep it up, shall we? :) What are YOU thankful for this week?

Thanks for stopping by, sweet blog friends. You all are amazing. Truly.

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10 Minute Craft Dash #2

Good morning!

It’s time for our second 10 Minute Craft Dash challenge! The last one was met with such amazing success (and joy)- we hope the second one follows suit. We eased you into the first one by allowing any colors to be used; however, this one we’ll have you used the colors above (neutrals are allowed) AND also be created under 10 Minutes. Sound impossible? It isn’t. :)

Here is what I came up with…..

Time it took to create: 9 minutes 12 seconds

Here is a little peek at what Ginny created– you’ll have to go to her blog to view the whole thing! :)

Time it took to create: 9 minutes 39 seconds

I am excited to have some very special names to help spread the word and also inspire us with their stunning 10 Minute creations. These ladies each have such a unique style and are quite well known in blog/ crafty magazine land.  Be sure to visit each of their blogs to see their stunning 10 Minute Card Dash creations.

Amy Wanford

Andrea Budjack

Ashley Cannon Newell

Dawn Woleslagle

Heidi Van Laar

Mariana Grisby

Sarah Martina Parker

I’m thrilled to announce we have a sponsor for this challenge too! Danielle from Neat & Tangled has graciously offered $20 gift certificate to her online store. She has some adorable sets (I used one above) and I know you’ll have fun browsing her site.

How to Play

1) Create a card/craft project within 10 minutes using the color palette above

2) Post the time it took to create

You can pull out your supplies before your timer starts!  

  • Post the challenge graphic in your post, link to the challenge
  • You may combine a total of three challenges with your entry. You may enter the challenge a maximum of two times.
  • Challenge ends September 15, 2012 at 11:59pm, PST.


Facebook Page Exclusive!

Hi all! 
Did you know there’s a Pretty Pink Posh Facebook page? I recently started it so you all could keep up with the latest posts and announcements. In addition, you get to interact with other readers AND occasionally there will be exclusives to those who “like” the page. 
Well…..there’s an exclusive right now! If you like my page and go to “exclusives”, you get to see the next 10 Minute Craft Dash challenge colors a day early! That’s right, you could start crafting your projects so they’re ready to post tomorrow morning– you could be one of the first ones to enter! 
I hope you’ll “like” my page and also let your fellow crafty friends know! See you bright and early tomorrow for the 10 Minute Craft Dash. You won’t want to miss this post- I have seven amazing special designers joining along AND there’s a fab prize for the winner. Lots of great stuff! 
Have a great rest of your day and thanks for stopping by! 

Featured Blogger: Beka Fox + GIVEAWAY

Hello and Good Morning!

It’s the first Monday of the month and that means it’s time for a brand new Featured Blogger! This honestly is one of my favorite features to do on the blog. Not only do I get to introduce you all to some of my favorite bloggers, I also get to know these amazing people a little better. Such a win-win in my book!

This month, I’m honored (and excited) to be bringing you one of the sweetest bloggers I’ve interacted with thus far. I found her blog through a blogging network and well, I’ve gone through months and months of her older posts. Each post is so engaging and truly reflects her personality and also her faith.

Please join me in welcoming the ultra sweet Beka Fox!

Let’s get started with some blogging questions! 

Tell us about your blog. When and why did you start it?

My blog is a place of inspiration for me. I love all things encouraging, pretty & simple. Blogger does that for me. I’ve been blogging for almost 5 years. I would say that I’ve only FAITHFULLY blogged for 3. :) I started it like any other Momma-2-be….. I was expecting my 1st born & wanted to document it…. or I wanted to talk about the Bachelor or Bachelorette. ;)

What inspires you for your posts?

Life. I truly believe in seeing INSPIRATION everywhere…..  And for me… that is the Bible. Once I read a chapter in the Bible… I come ALIVE.

What has been your favorite part about blogging?

Meeting kind and lovely ladies like Paulina. :) (Instagram really helps me know more about the other bloggers too! Not just in pretty typing.;)) 

Is there a specific post (of yours) that is your favorite?

Oh dear, that’s a hard question. But seriously, I would say…… “Bloom where you are planted”  OR “How to STAY classy while being Single”

Are there blogs that you visit on a daily basis? If so, which ones?  

  • Erin. Because she is SO SWEET..just like her blog!
  • Ruth at because she is an inspiration to me on parenting, marriage and HOMEMAKING!
  • Love because she has a story everyone should read. She is the kindest momma as well!

Okay, now onto some fun questions that are non-relevant to blogging…..

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Most recently, HOOP art…. & my etsy shop to help fund our adoption journey!

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Prince Edward Island. :) I would visit all the places of Anne of Green Gables.

Name 5 things that you are most passionate about:
Worship. Singing (it’s my best way of communicating). My marriage. Parenting. Relationships.

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Now that you see what a sweet and fun gal Beka is, I’m sure you want to follow her too! Here’s where you can find her:

Find Beka on Instagram: bunkerboo

Oooooh, and guess what? Beka is offering up a sweet giveaway to go along with this post. Go to her blog and follow her (and feel free to tell her I sent you!) then leave a comment on this post.

 

Thank you so much for visiting today! Have a great rest of your Monday- I’ll talk with you all soon!