Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Truck Birthday Card

 

I made this truck birthday card for my nephew a few years ago, and I realized it was still floating out in Wordpress world - but never made it over here.  It was such a fun card to make - so I really wanted to share it here!
 
Perfect card for a 3 year old boy!

Fall thoughts

Ahh Fall! I love this season. There's the change in colors, the apples, the crisp drop in temperatures and of course - the kids are back in school!!

By the time that mid-August hits, I think it's safe to assume that most families are ready for the routine that Fall brings. Yet, this year - routine has been a little harder to find. My oldest son has started football, our jobs have included lots of changes in schedules, meetings and other activities have been piling up for all of us. I would be easy to just wipe the calendar clean of all activities - but what good would that really do? My kids would be miserable and my husband and I believe it is important to give back to the community. If not us, then who?

So, now that we are into week number three of the school year I have been spending a lot of time reflectiing upon the choices that we have made that put us into such chaos and wondering - what little things can I do to make it easier? I have not had any earth-shattering revelations yet, but I have had a few moments of clarity that have helped me to realize that I have to start with myself first. If I am not calm and centered - how can I expect the rest of my family to be? So, this week I have decided that I can slow down a bit - get to work on the later side and try to enjoy my family before they leave for the day. Then once they are all on their merry way, I can calmly get ready for work and pick up a few things around the house.



Every day my trip to work includes a side road that has the most beautiful country views. I actually slowed down and really looked at my surroundings and even pulled over for a moment. The photo that is posted here is one of the sites I saw. It is a simple thing - but the fall harvest with all the leaves changing color just really touched me and reminded me just why I really love this season.

 May you find your inspiration today for a moment of inner peace and clarity.

- Amy

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Simple Banner made with Cricut

I have been wanting to make some projects at home with my Cricut for quite some time.  But I just haven't seemed to find the time lately.  My son was having a sleepover and I needed a new Happy Birthday banner.  So, it was finally time to warm up my Cricut! 

I thought I was going to have to buy an new cartridge to get a banner image - and then I noticed that Country Life had banners!  Score!!!  A few cuts later and voila - we have a new banner!  The nice thing about this is that I used brads to connect all of the pieces - so I can make new banner pieces and swap out names in the future. 


This was so easy to make - I was able to cut it out and put it all together in under an hour.  I also used my Design Studio software and made sure to save the file, so I will be all set when I need to cut out new pieces for another birthday.

Happy Crafting!
- Amy