he{ART}

Kind, Smart, Important.

2012-01-25T10:00:00.000-06:00

Name that movie! I made this page for a October Afternoon Challenge with Becky that you can see here. This picture of Jana is one of my favorites. You can view the page here too.

The winner of the October Afternoon Goodies is...

Tiffany Davis that said...

So Cute! Can't wait to see the entire layout.

7:40 PM

Please email me wilna71 at yahoo dot ca. And I will get these in the mail for you ASAP.

love and a kiss

Links:

InLinkz.com

Paxil and Prozac.

2012-01-23T09:50:00.000-06:00

©Two Peas in a Bucket.

For those of you who doesn't know what Paxil and Prozac are, it's antidepressants. And that's what our 2 schnauzers are for us. Always happy to see you, always just loving and glad to be with you! They really makes me smile. Always! So, in October of 2011, we had our family pictures taken by Dani, and this one is one of my (many) favorites. Perfect for Paxil and Prozac. : )

You can see the page on 2 peas here...it's part of the Garden Girls' projects.

Thank you for participating in the Garden Girl Blog hop! You can still leave a comment on yesterday's post till Wednesday (Jan 25) to be entered into the draw.

love and a kiss

InLinkz.com

Gardeners' Digest.

2012-01-22T08:00:00.009-06:00

Ready for a fun blog hop? Also known as the Gardeners' Digest, this is a monthly update from the Garden Girls, the design team at Two Peas in a Bucket. Today's post comes to you in 4 parts... and fourth part is that you should click to the final link @ the 2Peas Garden Girl blog...(the blog hop starts with the gorgeous AMY Heller).

Ready?

1. First of all, here's a sneak peek of a page that I made for the creating garden and that I will share this week here on my blog... it's only my second design team page! One thing that i loved was when I asked the garden girls what is their favorite part of being on the DT and most of them said they loved the pages they make for the garden... it's as if they add more love and thought to it. And i think it's going to be my favorite part too.

I saw this page in the gallery and loved it so much I just had to share it with you. please go and take a peek. I love everything on there: the stitches, the hearts, the papers. Awesome work, Mary Ann Jenkins! :)

Five of my favorite products that I have ordered from the 2peas shops this past month. I am so in love with Amy Tangerine's line with American Crafts. I ordered one of all her stuff! Then you will see lots of the K&CO smash stuff in my pages (see the sneak peek above)...swoon. Ormolu is also a new favorite and those tags(!!) and their buttons... sigh. gorgeous. Last but not least at all is Jenni Bowlin's punches. I got the birdie one and the butterfly one.

InLinkz.com
 
Now, i am sure you had a great time hopping the Garden Girls' blogs...in case you wondered we are going alphabetically according to this list. I am last (hopefully not least)... so now you can finish here. Or start with AMY Heller

love and a kiss

ps... leave me a comment and you might win a October Afternoon goodie box from me. How does that sound? The give away is now closed. Tiffany Davis, you won the goodie box. Please email me. 

Links:
www.wilnaf.com

my favorite little thing...

2012-01-18T11:21:00.000-06:00

I discovered this amazing little stapler, called Tiny Attacher by Tim Holtz... and i absolutely love it! It staples these tiny staplers and it's clever design can get into little places!

Yes, it's the little things in life that makes one happy!

InLinkz.com

love and a kiss

Is this for you?

2012-01-17T11:43:00.000-06:00

It's definitely for me right now (winter blues?)...It’s okay to fall apart for a little while. – You don’t always have to pretend to be strong, and there is no need to constantly prove that everything is going well. You shouldn’t be concerned with what other people are thinking either – cry if you need to – it’s healthy to shed your tears. The sooner you do, the sooner you will be able to smile again. And a smile doesn’t always mean a person is happy. Sometimes it simply means they are strong enough to face their problems. (from this amazing blog) One thing I know for sure is a bad day for the ego is a good day for the soul!

I love these verses from the message:

Psalm 109:21
Oh, God, my Lord, step in; work a miracle for me—you can do it! Get me out of here—your love is so great!— I'm at the end of my rope!
Psalm 116:1
I love God because he listened to me, listened as I begged for mercy. He listened so intently as I laid out my case before him. Death stared me in the face, hell was hard on my heels. Up against it, I didn't know which way to turn; then I called out to God for help: "Please, God!" I cried out. "Save my life!" God is gracious—it is he who makes things right, our most compassionate God. God takes the side of the helpless; when I was at the end of my rope, he saved me.
Psalm 143:7
Hurry with your answer, God! I'm nearly at the end of my rope. Don't turn away; don't ignore me! That would be certain death. If you wake me each morning with the sound of your loving voice, I'll go to sleep each night trusting in you. Point out the road I must travel; I'm all ears, all eyes before you. Save me from my enemies, God— you're my only hope! Teach me how to live to please you, because you're my God. Lead me by your blessed Spirit into cleared and level pastureland.

love and a kiss

Links:
www.wilnaf.com

Canadian Citizens.

2012-01-14T11:56:00.003-06:00

This week marks a milestone for our family. On the 11th of January (Wednesday) we became Canadian citizens. Never did I think even for a second it would mean so much to me. But it does. The closest I can come to describing it is a sense of belonging. 39 people became citizens with us from 15 countries. South Africa is called the rainbow nation, but I thought this term is more relevant here! Canadians are made up from every race and country on the globe... and we felt honored and blessed to be a part of it. A dear friend decorated our house with more than 20 Canadian flags... how sweet is that? I am still smiling just thinking of it.
If you are wondering, we still have dual citizenship in South Africa. But traveling with a Canadian passport is a sweet deal. Canada's good standing with most nations void entry visas and likewise documentation.

This is a thank you to the immigration officers working hard to make this dream come true, A thank you to wonderful Canadian friends who was more excited than us... Barb Riley, you know who you are.
Immigrating to a new country is not for the faint of heart. We are a family of 5 and if I could have earned a dollar for every form that i filled in i could retire in luxury. We have been in Canada 7 years this year and on average (among the South Africans) this is how long it takes to become a Canadian Citizen. Yesterday we went to Saskatoon to apply for Passports and when we walked out of the government building, I said to Jaco that I think I need a drink... our immigration process is finished at last! I am writing this not only for my blog readers, but so that my children's kids one day will know how they came to live in Canada.

love and a kiss

Ps... who doesn't love a sale? I DO! Check this out: (click the image)

creative goals.

2012-01-10T13:33:00.000-06:00

I made this page about my creative goals in 2012. (as seen on the October Afternoon blog yesterday) while it's not set in stone, I do believe it helps when you have something in the back of your mind to accomplish creatively. Being creative is not always fun... sometimes it's hard work and the fun part is sitting back and enjoying the end product! For this week, I have a lot happening... one of the best things is that we have our Canadian Citizen ceremony tomorrow. We wrote the test earlier and we pass!! I will post some pictures. It's really really an exciting day! Anyone thinking at immigrating to another country + obtaining citizenship is easy should think again. It's a long and hard process with millions billions of paperwork... and we are 5 people.

love and a kiss

Links:

InLinkz.com

My week in pictures...

2012-01-09T16:45:00.000-06:00

I haven't been blogging a lot.... something that I hope to change in the coming year!
I thought to share a few pictures of the first week of 2012!

Right now I am studying for my Canadian Citizen test tomorrow at 11am. It's been a while since I have studied for anything and I am actually enjoying myself! my goal is to beat jaco in the test... hehe. If you are Canadian... test yourself here. I have done a ton of these today! : )

I have a cool challenge on the October Afternoon Blog today... i will share the page tomorrow on here. And still on the scrapbook topic... i am so happy to be a Garden Girl. It feels unreal and as if I have to pinch myself!

Wish me luck for the test tomorrow! If all goes well, we will be Canadian Citizens on wednesday! yay!
love and a kiss

Links:
www.wilnaf.com

Happy new year!

2012-01-02T10:06:00.001-06:00

So, this is a new year! I am so happy to announce that I am part of the garden girl team on Twopeasinabucket and I am looking forward to an awesome year of creativity and creative growth... both in my paper crafting and my photography. Here's the first page I created for the Garden and you can see it here + all the products that I used. Happy new year to you... may all your dreams come true!

love and a kiss

InLinkz.com

Touching posts from 2011.

2011-12-29T11:06:00.004-06:00

Today let me share some things that have inspired me greatly.

These are just a few. But something else that should inspire you are these words:
Psalm19 in the message:

^7-9 The revelation of God is whole
      and pulls our lives together.
   The signposts of God are clear
      and point out the right road.
   The life-maps of God are right,
      showing the way to joy.
   The directions of God are plain
      and easy on the eyes.
   God's reputation is twenty-four-carat gold,
      with a lifetime guarantee.
   The decisions of God are accurate
      down to the nth degree.

¹⁰ God's Word is better than a diamond,
      better than a diamond set between emeralds.
   You'll like it better than strawberries in spring,
      better than red, ripe strawberries.

^11-14 There's more: God's Word warns us of danger
      and directs us to hidden treasure.
   Otherwise how will we find our way?
      Or know when we play the fool?
   Clean the slate, God, so we can start the day fresh!
      Keep me from stupid sins,
      from thinking I can take over your work;
   Then I can start this day sun-washed,
      scrubbed clean of the grime of sin.
   These are the words in my mouth;
      these are what I chew on and pray.
   Accept them when I place them
      on the morning altar,
   O God, my Altar-Rock,
      God, Priest-of-My-Altar.

love and a kiss

www.wilnaf.com

December journal | 23, 24 and 25

2011-12-28T16:26:00.000-06:00

I finished up my album and feel a little spent. Right now it feels like after having a baby... not sure if I want to do it again! But then, when December rolls around next year I am sure I will be up for it. Thanks for joining my journal journey...

love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 Posts.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | TwentySix

2011-12-26T08:00:00.000-06:00

This is my final page for my December Journal album. I made it earlier this month for an October Afternoon Challenge. I inserted it in the front of my album. I think it's a fitting page for the last page of an album that will forever remind me of December 2011.
Thank you for being a part of my album journey.

love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 Posts.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

Merry Christmas...2011

2011-12-24T16:22:00.000-06:00

From our home to yours. We wish you a wonderful, warm and merry Christmas.

love and a kiss

Jaco, Wilna, Tia, Kirstin, Jana, Mac and Abby.

xoxo

December Journal | TwentyTwo

2011-12-23T08:00:00.000-06:00

Today's page is a collage of pictures from my Instagram feed that I took with my iPhone camera. It documents the little moments of December and I loved adding them to a page in this album. Thanks for stopping by today.

Luke 2: ¹⁰But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which will come to all the people.

love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 Posts.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | TwentyOne

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

We bake cookies every year for the dance teachers and close friends. We enjoy it so much even when the gingerbread men is absolutely not perfect. we love the mess, the tastes, the togetherness. And of course giving them out. Can you believe it's almost Christmas? I am watching all the Tyler Perry movies (Madea) and they are my favorites. seriously. I LOVE those movies. heller?

love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 Posts.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | Eighteen

2011-12-21T11:41:00.000-06:00

Somehow, I forgot to put this page on my blog! well, better late than never! It's about Kirstin and she is my darling and seriously, the sweetest girl in the world. I really wish sometimes that my girls never grow up... my heart is so full right now.

love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 Posts.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | Nineteen

2011-12-20T07:00:00.000-06:00

Day nineteen is all about some inspiration. Who have not discovered Pinterest? it's one of the wonders of the internet world. When I wanted to paint our front door yellow, I did a pinterest search and got so much inspiration. When I was looking for ideas to set a Christmas table, just go to pinterest. It's a happy and glorious place! Thank you for stopping by today! till tomorrow!

love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 Posts.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | Sixteen

2011-12-17T07:00:00.000-06:00

This is Tia. She is my oldest girl. Ask anyone who knows this girl and they will tell you she is the most beautiful girl inside and out. She is kind, sweet, incredibly funny, wise and clever. The clever part I know because I teach her algebra. The only thing I cannot. understand. Is that she wants Justin Bieber for Christmas????? (see what I mean funny?)
She is a wonderful dancer... (advanced ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical. but NOT hiphop) and she loves to bake. I asked a friend the other day who bakes amazing cakes in our town and she texted me back... Tia? Yes. So happy to have her. Love you Tai. (our nickname for her)

Till Monday...
love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 Posts.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | Fifteen

2011-12-15T08:00:00.000-06:00

I took these pictures Monday because the snow was falling in soft fluffy flakes and I had to do a sketch challenge for October Afternoon today. You see, I adore OA's Holiday collection... You can see the sketch challenge here.

These 3 girls are my heart and soul. My loves. And these are only a few pictures I took of them. See how they have grown up from last years' snow pictures.

love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 Posts.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | Fourteen

2011-12-14T08:00:00.000-06:00

Picture by Dani van Steelandt

From Simple Abundance by Sarah Ban Breathnach

Today is our 20th wedding anniversary. I am so thankful! When I read this story, it touched me deeply. Even though our marriages and relationships are flawed and imperfect and broken, sometimes we have to step back and realize that we still have a wonderful life. And thank God that He still makes His home within us. And that makes us whole and perfect and strong and incredibly loved. So, for the next 20 years, I ask for Strength, Grace and Wisdom. The end.

And Jaco Furstenberg, if you are reading this, no one will ever love you more. (if your read this blog, you will totally get this line)

love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 Posts.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | Thirteen

2011-12-13T13:36:00.000-06:00

The other day I had a list of all my favorite books of 2011 on my blog. That had me thinking when I had to decide what to do for this day's page. You know the end of the year lists that all the magazines and channels like CNN does? It always fascinates me. So that's what I had in mind with these pages: The books (or should I say some of the books) I read this year.
Oh and btw... have you seen The 45 Most Powerful Images of 2011? I cried at number 20. Seriously.

Can you list your top 3 books of 2011? That would be an awesome read for me.

love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 Posts.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | Ten

2011-12-11T07:00:00.000-06:00

This is Jana, my youngest girl. She is a handful and provides this family with constant zingers, one liners and laughs. I decided to do this page about her because she is 10. I am doing a page about each of my girls this year with a list of what they wanted for Christmas. It's always fun looking back to see what they wanted! I am sure by now you realize that my album is not reflective of the doings of everyday. But it's more reflective of moments and capturing those. Luckily there are no december daily police going around, right?

Taking a bit of a break! Until Wednesday! Over and out.

love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 Posts.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | Nine

2011-12-10T07:00:00.000-06:00

I don't know about you, but my dogs are such a big part of our lives. I simply cannot imagine my life without their wonderful warm love. We have 2 Miniature Schnauzers: Mac (the big boy) and Abby (the spunky girl). We often joked we should have called the prozac and paxil because they are instant anti depressants. I adore this picture of Mac in front of the Christmas tree. It's such a beautiful portrait of the awesome dog he is. The end.

See u tomorrow!
love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 Posts.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | Eight

2011-12-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

Photo by Dani van Steelandt.

Today's page is not so much about me as it's about my heart. Looking back at 2011, I am so thankful, grateful and overwhelmed. I just sat down and wrote it all out as a prayer.

If you want to use it and make it yours, click on the image and right click and select "save image as". See you tomorrow!

Happy Birthday to my dad today on his 72nd birthday!

love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 Posts.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | Seven

2011-12-07T18:09:00.001-06:00

Today's page is about me. On my Mac there is a program called Photobooth. It's just a fun app to take some pictures with. And while taking self portraits with my camera is a mayor pain for me, with photobooth it's instant and fun. Almost every time I get my hair done, I take a picture. hehe. So looking back at this past year's photobooth pictures, I decided to make a page about it. This was the year I turned 40, so I think subconsciously, when I take a picture it's in the hope that I don't look older. HA!

Till tomorrow!

love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 Posts.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | Five

2011-12-05T20:02:00.001-06:00

This event happened over the weekend and took lots of pictures. We made tea, ate coffee cake, turned up Justin Bieb's Under the mistletoe real (really) loud and danced around with little lights and made funny faces. I loved making this page and that picture? Says it all.

See you again Thursday. Today (Tuesday) I am going to be cleaning house and take some pictures and cook lamb-stew. the end.

love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 Posts.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | Three

2011-12-04T08:00:00.000-06:00

This day was all about home. It was cold outside... not in temperatures but in wind chill. I had a wonderful friend (and photographer) Dani over for coffee and coffeecake. Jaco was home in the morning doing some medical CME's and my girls worked in the schoolroom. (which reminds me that I have some tests to score). I added this blog post as journaling by printing it out.

There are only two ways to live your life: One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle. - Albert Einstein. Today was one of those ordinary miracles. I am having some time alone and are enjoying the solitude. Listening to Yo-yo Ma playing the Missions: Gabriel's Oboe. As beautiful as a thousand sunsets.

Through the journey of documenting my Christmas, I have come to realize that I simply cannot do it every day. I need a break here and there for other important things and to not feel overwhelmed and resentful. So I decided to only document 19 days out of the 25. I added this little calender to my sidebar more for me than anyone else to remember which days I am documenting and which days I am taking a break. Today is one such day. I think I am going to say in and read the whole day!

Here's a few of the books I read this year and loved: (from my Kindle and actual library)

1. Steve Jobs. Probably Number one on my list. (✭✭✭✭✭)

2.The Hunger Games (i only read the first one. I had a feeling the others will bore me) (✭✭✭)

3. focus By Leo of zen habits. (✭✭✭)

4. Warrior Soul: The Memoir of a Navy SEAL (✭✭✭)

5. Black Hawk Down (✭✭✭✭✭)

6. Roberts Ridge (this is an amazing book if you are looking for a stocking stuffer for your husband) (✭✭✭✭✭)

7. SEAL Team Six: Memoirs of an Elite Navy SEAL Sniper (✭✭✭✭✭) (ok, so I got into this genre of war stories and couldn't stop reading... Lone Survivor (✭✭✭✭✭) started it all...)

8. One Day (✭✭)

9. The fifth witness (excellent) (✭✭✭✭✭)

10. The Lincoln Lawyer (better than excellent) (✭✭✭✭✭)

11. The Reversal (✭✭✭)

12. The Brass verdict (✭✭✭)(ok, so I got hooked on Mickey Haller... maybe because Matthew McConaughey is so cute! # 9, 10, 11 and 12 written by Michael Connelly)

13. THE HELP!!!!!!! (my second favorite book of the year) (✭✭✭✭✭)

I will see you again on Tuesday!

love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 | day three.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | Two

2011-12-03T08:00:00.003-06:00

Today is Christmas Card day. Every year i send a bunch of cards just because it gives me so much joy. It's not a burden or an obligation with me... I enjoy everything about our Christmas cards: from the design to the mailing. We had our family pictures taken this year and it was the perfect one to use. Today I want to take some pictures of the house and how Christmas is making it's appearance here and there. We hope to have our tree up by the weekend. It's a process. And the good news is that it does not have to happen in one day.

Psalm 23: ^1-3 God, my shepherd! I don't need a thing.
   You have bedded me down in lush meadows,
      you find me quiet pools to drink from.
   True to your word,
      you let me catch my breath
      and send me in the right direction.

love and a kiss

Links:
Grace for today
December Daily 2010
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

Grace for today.

2011-12-02T08:56:00.002-06:00

I open the door. the gorgeous guest
from afar sweeps in. in her hands are
her gifts - the gifts of hours and far seeing moments,
the gift of mornings and evenings,
the gift of spring and summer, the gift
of autumn and winter. She must have searched
the heavens for gifts so rare.
-Abbie Graham.

I love what Sarah Ban Breathnach calls December gifts - custom, ceremony, celebration and consecration. They come to us wrapped up, not in tissue and ribbons but in cherished memories. This year has been a tough one for me... emotionally and marriage wise (i will write on that later this month)... and I made a decision that this month, December, is going to be a month of exactly all the c's: custom, ceremony, celebration and consecration.

Custom: those little self invented traditions that sits around your shoulders like a well worn comforter. Little customs in my life: baking cookies as gifts to friends and teachers. Lighting candles at dinner time because in Saskatchewan it's pitch dark but 5pm. Reading: getting lost in a good book is certainly one of the greatest joys in life. Christmas cards: sending a love and a kiss over the seas. Food: cooking together. Preparing food that loves you back.

Ceremony: Getting dressed up for setting up the tree, setting a pretty table for Christmas eve. Praying together and blessing each other with kind words... not in a formal manner, but in an everyday manner. Rom 12:2 Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him.

Celebration: Recognizing and celebrating His life in me. to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do... Seeing with new eyes that He is near to you. In your heart, in the words you speak, the thoughts you think. Rejoicing that He is drawing near to you all the time. That small voice in your heart? listen. rejoice. forgive. Where there is Love there is always miracles. Ask. I think the one thing that makes God's heart jump for joy is when we ask.

Consecration: For in asking we declare: we don't know, have the answers, we are on the end of our rope. "We have to accept that we have uncreative moments. The more honestly one can accept that, the quicker these moments will pass. One must have the courage to call a halt, to feel empty and discouraged - E Hillesum" In asking God to help us, give us wisdom, give us an answer, we consecrate ourselves to Him. We declare our dependance upon him.
Matt 11:28 "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."

December: days we once called common, we now call holy. -Sarah Ban Breathnach

love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 | day one.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

December Journal | One

2011-12-01T19:55:00.000-06:00

And so it starts. I love December. I try to clear my schedule to make time for my family and some heartwarming traditions: this journal, baking, decorating, wrapping, cooking, dining and general cheer and joy. Today I start off with a tradition that the beautiful Shimelle began: A Christmas Manifesto. All this is, is a statement of what you want to do or remind yourself of this festive season. Last year I made one that you can download here (just right click save as). This year I wanted to add some color and images. This one picture says a lot about me... (even Scrappy features there...tee-hee)

The last 2 days of November I worked on our taxes to get rid of any mental clutter for December. I am not done but I did a huge chunk and are super happy about it! So today I am going to plan a bit more and think of how I want to finish the album. My husband is sitting with me in the office while I work and the dogs are playing around our feet. I am so thankful! Speaking of thanks... I am really grateful for all the beautiful comment on my album! I think the only way to describe it as honestly as possible is that it's a labor of love for me.

Be blessed! I am also super excited to see your albums! It's part of the creative inspiration for me! Something that I have been contemplating on: Eph 1: ^15-19That's why, when I heard of the solid trust you have in the Master Jesus and your outpouring of love to all the followers of Jesus, I couldn't stop thanking God for you—every time I prayed, I'd think of you and give thanks. But I do more than thank. I ask—ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory—to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for his followers, oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him—endless energy, boundless strength!

Until tomorrow!
love and a kiss

Links:
December Daily 2010 | day one.
Ali Edward's Album.
www.wilnaf.com

A few details...

2011-11-20T16:57:00.005-06:00

I used Making Memories trim with the words Merry Christmas to close my album. The way I did it was by adding an eyelet on the front and back covers. I threaded the ribbon through the eyelet and adhered it on the inside with hot glue. I haven't set an eyelet in...like...forever so I first had to practice it again.

The cover outside was first spray painted silver (Inspired by Ali's first attempt)
Then I added my embellishments and drizzled envirotex lite in circles on it. It really drizzles great! I didn't mix it correctly because the bottles were almost empty (one bottle had a bit more in it than the other one) so when it dried it was still tacky. (then i added a little silver glitter) I bought new bottles and mixed up some more and drizzled it again. Now everything is completely dried.

I printed a die cut on a piece of card stock, cut it out and used it for a template for some of the date strips. And yes, the red ribbon was exactly meant to resemble a gift. : )

I printed the overlays (By Ali Edwards) on Bazzill cardstock "french Valnilla" I edited the numbers out and stamped those in using Making Memories Clear stamps.
Do you see the Lace paper on the inside cover? It's by KI Memories. I adhered it with modge podge and added a generous layer to protect it.

Every year I paint watercolors for Christmas. These are the ones I painted for 2011. You can buy them here.

So happy to see everyone's albums. Christmas count down starts in 10 days!!!

love and a kiss

December Journal: pre-pages

2011-11-17T11:24:00.002-06:00

I spent the whole day yesterday making my pre-pages. Ali Edwards pre make her pages every year but for some reason the idea did not catch on with me. When I made my album last year, I felt overwhelmed after a few days. So, I do believe pre making the album will be a huge factor in simplifying the process this year. I loved every second making these pages. I am already thinking of how to finish them... You can see more pictures in my Flickr set.
A few things that I used:

1. Studio Calico December Daily Kit.
2. Ali Edwards Digital elements: Advent Boxes Brushes and Stamps
and 6x8.5 overlays.
3. Gold paper & dotted gold white paper from Michaels.

(edited to add)
My process: What I have found in years past making a December daily album, is that I can't do 25 days of Christmas. Last year I decided to do 20 days and I could do that... it worked for me. So this year I am recording 19 days. so if you go through the Flickr gallery and see days missing it's because I planned it that way! : ) btw... i also did not show all the pages in the flickr album. A little irony: I spray painted the cover silver but ended up using only gold inside. (a good thing there are no December daily police lurking somewhere).

If you have a question... leave me a comment!
love and a kiss

Creative.

2011-11-13T15:44:00.004-06:00

Today is the perfect winter day: the snow is falling quietly and we are all spending time indoors. Jaco set up the kids TV and doing other admin, the girls are hanging out with a friend down stairs. Even the dogs are laying on their pillow very happy just to be near us. I am working on a few projects at once... and one is doing the cover for my December Journal. I snapped this picture just now while the varnish was still wet and the album has to be horizontal while drying.

First I spray painted the cover of my album silver. Next I adhered some elements with hot glue: (A Jenni Bowlin star, 7 gypsies leaves, a feather, October Afternoon label, Authentique words and Pebbles wood button). I mixed up some Envirotex varnish and dripped it in circles around the embellishments. I made sure to add a few extra drops for more texture. I will post more pictures when the varnish is dry... usually about 24 hours.

Have a gorgeous Sunday... full of heart peace, happiness and contentment.

love and a kiss

Christmas is coming...

2011-11-10T15:04:00.000-06:00

I am so happy for this wonderful season. I love the little bit slower pace, the little traditions and of course the creative part: December daily album. I got my Studio Calico kit yesterday and I can's wait to start pre-making my pages.

I added this banner to www.iheartphotos.ca today. I think it explains itself pretty much. ho. ho. ho. This weekend is a long one in Canada and the weathernetwork is predicting snow and more snow. we are having our SuperMed Christmas party, but other than that (and the ballet extra exam classes and mock exams) we are not planning much. (on purpose)

love and a kiss

heART studio.

2011-11-06T16:01:00.001-06:00

Working to create a new space for me has been just one word: Exciting! Since we moved into the new house in September, I have been thinking and gathering inspiration to create a new (yet old) scrapbook studio/office for me. I was so in love with my old one, but the new room is a little bigger plus it came finished with the most perfect wall color + wall paper. The only new things I added to this room is the chandelier and a chubby organizer from potterybarn which I ordered online. I love that this office is less cluttered and more spacious. You can see the whole gallery here.

Just a few notes:

The desk is from Ikea (2006)... But I don't think it's available any more.

I have 2 chest of drawers (the white ones) also from Ikea + the book shelf.

The "antique" chest of drawers comes from a pawn shop... i got it for $50. : )

One of my favorite things is the place where I can hang up my scarves, keys and hand bag.

The inspiration boards was originally an old window frame that I bought for $5 off a guy long ago. Then one weekend when Jaco was working I took white magnetic boards and using screws and things to adhere them to the back of the frames. I love the shabby chic look.

This was the main inspiration picture for me. And this was my office inspiration board.

If you have a question, please post it here and not on flickr. Thanks! I will my add my answers to the above list.

love and a kiss

Help...

2011-11-02T13:44:00.001-06:00

This morning a friend texted me this: James 1 If you don't know what you're doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You'll get his help, and won't be condescended to when you ask for it. Ask boldly, believingly, without a second thought. People who "worry their prayers" are like wind-whipped waves. I love it so. What a joy and peace to be reminded that we are not alone and He is so close to us: The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart.

Then, this is the violet on my windowsill in the kitchen. And that's my pet bunny. Both of them gives me joy. I know, it doesn't take much to make me happy. : )
That's all for today...
love and a kiss

2011-10-31T12:28:00.000-06:00

This past weekend we had our family pictures taken. Backtrack to June when a few friends gave me a voucher to this amazing Photographer's studio: Dani & Devin van Steelandt.. so sunday morning we got up at 6am... when we discussed our session Dani suggested we do an early morning shoot to capture the sun rising as well as the frost on the ground. It turned out prefect. The sky was clear and the sun rise beautiful. A chilly -5, but I warned the girls that the cold should not show on their faces. What a mother I am. The pictures turned out great. In fact, i am totally lyrical about them. And i am sure you will see much more in the weeks to come... in posts and scrapbook pages and Christmas cards. Here is Dani's facebook page (with more pictures of our session) and while you hover over there, "like" it! (thanks).

Today i am designing Christmas cards for iheartphotos. And speaking of Christmas, I ordered the Studio Calico December daily kit. When I think of the December Daily Album (hosted by Ali Edwards) I am super excited for Christmas and everything about it. I think it's one of my favorite things about December!

I am also reading Steve Jobs and can not put it down. Being the Mac fan that I am, it fascinates me so to see how it all came to be. And I am so inspired again to rethink design and everything it encompasses.

Well, i hope this week treats you well. I for one will not be trick or treating. : )

love and a kiss

Just saying...

2011-10-21T18:32:00.000-06:00

I adore Christmas cards. I design and send them every year. And this year it gives me such a pleasure that I can do it for someone else too. www.iheartphotos.ca

Happy weekend!
love and a kiss

Slice Fabrique headband.

2011-10-18T22:08:00.000-06:00

I made this little headband using my slice fabrique under 30 minutes. I used the Applique Design Card to cut out 3 flowers: 2.5, 3 and 3.5 inches big. Then i added tulle in between the flowers and stitched it all together. I had this headband and adhered the flower to it using my hot glue gun. The diamond piece in the middle is from Vintage groove jewelry.
Tia loves the headband... it's soft and romantic just like she is.

love and a kiss

A few things...

2011-10-17T10:12:00.000-06:00

happy Monday! Today's post comes to you in bullet points:

Today, head over to the October afternoon blog where I am presenting this challenge... : )

The winner of the MM Slice Design Card is... Sheene!! (you posted at 10:37 PM)
As to not frustrate my friends and family with all my photos on FaceBook, I decided last night (well, it was in the early morning hours) to create a FaceBook page for my photography. It's called Iheartphotos. You can find it here. If you like me, i will be happy. (sounds like primary school all over again...hehe)

Today remember that God created many things and then the best of all: YOU. Just revel today in His love that's a fountain springing from within Himself. He cannot help but to love you.

love and a kiss

BFF's

2011-10-16T11:44:00.001-06:00

Kirstin and her best friend Katie. They are 2 peas in a pod. I loved how their pictures turned out. Happy Sunday!

love and a kiss

Friday love...

2011-10-07T10:32:00.000-06:00

Yikes. This is my Tia child. Being a mom to 3 girls is awesome. But also awe inspiring. From the bottom of my heart i just want the best for them. But to achieve this end goal, i do believe in tough love. Like telling this beauty over and again that waiting for the right guy will be so much more worth than just kissing boys left and right. Explaining to her again and again that her worth comes from within, that it's priceless and that no boy should be able to alter, add to or subtract from that. Ingraining in her heart that she is loved, beautiful and precious... I pray for this girl to have a wise heart. A knowing heart. A heart that seeks hard after God. and I pray for this mother's heart. Because this mom's heart is so easily broken.

love and a kiss

oh, for the cuteness

2011-10-04T16:44:00.000-06:00

I made this project for Making Memories' slice Fabrique and loved every second. It's my second time I used this little owl and probably not my last one either! And guess what? These beautiful fabics? uh huh? From October Afternoon. My approach to making these little goodie bags was as follow:

I bought the little 8x8 bags at Walmart (3 in one packet)
For the owl I used the Slice Fabrique Animal frenzy design card. The size of the owl was set at 5".
The leaves was cut (different shapes and sizes) using the Applique Basic card.
I also used some Vintage Groove jewelry pieces to add some detail.
Oh and some buttons.
Next, I sew the pieces together on a background of plain fabric and then cut each piece out (like the completed owl and leaves etc) and then simply adhered it to the bags with embroidery floss.
I am a terrible seamstress. I really am. Don't look on the insides of the bags. (!!)

Just because I am so loving these bags, I am giving away a Slice Design card on my blog here... leave me a message and you can win the SUMMER design card. Please take not that this design card is NOT a fabrique card, but works with the paper Slice.

A bit of good news to remember today: The hardcore reality is: when you think that it cannot get any worse, it usually does. The TRUTH is: No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he'll never let you be pushed past your limit; he'll always be there to help you come through it. (MSG 1Co 10:13)

love and a kiss

2011-09-28T17:23:00.000-06:00

These are the moments that i adore most: combining the two things (three actually) that i love the best: photos, scrapbooking and photoshop. I love how this page turned out. I updated iheartphotos.ca with some new galleries. Go and have a look!

love and a kiss

fall 2011

2011-09-22T20:09:00.001-06:00

Sometimes a picture is worth more than a thousand words.

love and a kiss

Slice Fabrique: teacher's gift idea

2011-09-21T08:00:00.022-06:00

Oh how cute is this owl? I made this little teacher's gift for Making Memories using the Slice Fabrique with the the Animal Frenzy design card. It was so much fun to make. I stumbled upon these beautiful fabrics in....wait for it... walmart! and fell in love! Thinking it would be perfect to play with my slice fabrique. I love the artsy colors and patterns. First i just cut 6 little pieces of 6x6 fabric in different patterns. Next I ironed on the fusible web and then I cut them out using the Size 6 selection on the Slice Fabrique. It is as easy as that.

This is a perfect little bag for a book, a Bible or to use for pencils and other pretty stationary.
Remember to check out the Slice Fabrique Facebook Fan page for more tips and tricks and give aways.

love and a kiss

iheartphotos!

2011-09-19T15:06:00.000-06:00

Just a few pictures of one of the sessions that kept me busy this weekend. Taking pictures for me equals endorphins! I really love it so. But what i love more is what happens in the lightroom in my studio. If anyone ever wonders why we ask money for what we do it's for what happens after the shoot. I love the editing but it's time consuming and always beg my girls afterward to give me a massage. For those of you reading this blog and who live in or around Prince Albert and who's been contemplating getting your pictures done...I am having a 25% off coupon till end of September and a 15% off coupon for October ( - but i will design your Christmas card for free). So click here and write me a note!

Talk soon
love and a kiss

What moving tought me

2011-09-12T14:53:00.001-06:00

This past week we moved house. These are the lessons i learned:

we are not 20 years old any more. Jaco went to the chiropractor and i have a callus under my foot. we went to bed early every. night. this. week.
Think twice before drilling a hole because someday you have to patch it up and paint it again. I am amazed at how many holes we had to patch up!
Take time to decide where everything should go
Be more thankful for friends who brought food and drinks and helped moved. I love you. i do, i do, i do.
I also love my friends who just sat with me while i unpacked boxes. Love your conversations. I vow to be THAT friend more.
I am more thankful for routine. I missed it more than anything else. when you are in between houses everything stands still.
Move your teacups and tea pots first and see the glee on your friend's face when you set a pretty tray in the midst of the chaos.
I never thought that being able to do laundry would make me so happy!

We moved from the west to the east in Prince Albert and this house is everything i always wanted in a house. It's the happiest and friendliest of homes. I am thankful for every square foot.

And I adore my new scrapbook room. My praises are thank you's. I am so grateful.

love and a kiss

sticks head around the corner waves hand

2011-08-29T16:21:00.001-06:00

dear blog readers... i wish i could say "homies" but that would just not be me. But now you know what i wanted to address you as. {insert smile}. A quick update + a few cool things. This past month i managed the clinic and found an awesome replacement who flew solo today and i am sure she did great. Being at home today was just. the. best. I had a nap on my deck in the sunshine with Mac and Abby at my feet feeling the warmth of the sun and feeling the wind and listening to the wind chime. It was a beautiful moment. Until i remembered that we are moving house this coming week and that i still need to pack up my life. Why does laying on my bed reading a Michael Connelly novel sounds like so much more fun than packing in?
We are moving to a house across town. It's a beautiful place and i have been living there in my heart for the past 2 months. Which means that i stopped living in this house. which means that it's still in a state of chaos. Possession date is wednesday and then we are laying a new carpet in the living room down stairs. Our furniture move is scheduled for next week Tuesday. {insert impatience here}.

A few things that will make you smile:

I want to show you this awesome video by Hank green for his brother John's birthday. i love it.
best blog ever. ever.
creative? want some inspiration? look no further.
When i read this i laughed so hard. like, out loud.

that's all for now. over and out.

love and a kiss

letter.

2011-08-03T18:33:00.000-06:00

Today's blog post comes in the style of Today's letters which is one of my daily delights to read.

Dear Blog, i still love you, i really really do. dear week, where on earth did you go? Thursday tomorrow already? Seriously? Dear new job, thank you for filling up my days with new challenges and excitement. dear kids, i appreciate you keeping the house clean. now, go and vacuum. dear THE HELP, i love you. reading hasn't been this much fun in like, for ever. Dear admin person out there, please come to our clinic soon, so I can quit my new job. dear new house, i am looking forward to moving in in a few weeks. dear Tia, thank you for baking pannekoek today. Dear Jana, thank you for reminding me to smile. dear Camera, i am missing you as much as you are missing me. Dear Kirstin, you are dear to me. Now walk on that foot so you can run. Dear iPhone, you are the new love of my life. Dear God, thank you for loving me and being patient with me so i can see things the way YOU see them. Amen.

love and a kiss

Slice Fabrique: Vintage seasons card.

2011-07-19T18:46:00.000-06:00

I embellished this little apron by adding those cute bunnies from the Vintage Seasons design card. You need about 8 different patterns of fabric. I simply ironed on the fusible web and cut each piece (my size was 4 inches) and use fabric glue to adhere it to the apron. I love how it turned out and i am sure it will make the perfect gift!

Remember to LIKE Slice Fabrique on Facebook to get all the cool tips and tutorials.

love and a kiss

Lovely girl...

2011-07-14T16:34:00.000-06:00

I did a session with this beautiful girl and loved every minute of taking and editing the pictures. You can see more here and here.

love and a kiss

Slice Fabrique: mirror and shadow tutorial.

2011-07-13T08:00:00.003-06:00

Hello! here's a little tutorial showing how to create this key chain icon by using the mirror and shadow features on the Slice. I used the dilly dally design card and the main thing to remember when you cut fabric with the paper design cards is to keep your designs simple.
Watch the video and if you have any questions, please ask it in the comments area. : ) it was so much fun making it. I was thinking as i took pictures, that if you make a few of these they will make a gorgeous mobile.

Slice Fabrique: mirror and shadow tutorial. from Wilna Furstenberg on Vimeo.
Any questions? leave me a comment on www.wilnaf.com

love and a kiss

Sometimes i wish...

2011-07-11T13:54:00.000-06:00

There could be two of me. I am sure you have wished for the same thing. For pure selfish reasons. This past week i have been delving into creating a photo website for me. The main reason for this is because i am loving photography more and more and lately i am giddy if someone asks me to take pictures for them. I love everything about the process: from the actual shoot to the post editing. I really wish everyone could see themselves through my lens. But in the process of getting it all up and running nothing else gets done. I don't cook, I don't clean. This is when i need a clone to step in and perform those duties for me. Yep, what a great fantasy.

I loved the website so much, i had to tweak my blog too. Look at this awesome tutorial i found for creating a slide show banner. One more reason to love the coffeeshop blog. : )

Right now i am going to step away from my computer for at least 4 hours and soak up the sun. One of my friends texted my (and rightly so) that my eyes must be little squares by now. But despite it all, i am thankful for each and every learning curve i go through. Even if it's painful at the time.

love and a kiss

i he(art) photos.

2011-07-10T12:31:00.001-06:00

I am so excited to announce my photo website. Which i built all by myself. yes. high fives for that one alone. If you head over there, click on those little thumbnails and see the beautiful galleries that opens up. I am so happy. Time now, i think, for another blog make over. : )

iheartphotos.ca

Let me know what you think.

love and a kiss

A few things...

2011-07-05T13:50:00.004-06:00

Today there's a few things happening on the world wide web that involves me somehow :

*A little tutorial on design principles here.
*A fun loving kids craft idea here
*A beautifully written and informative article here.

and now i am off to edit some photos.

love and a kiss

love story.

2011-06-27T11:01:00.000-06:00

Where do I begin 

To tell the story of how great a love can be 

The sweet love story that is older than the sea 

The simple truth about the love she brings to me 

Where do I start 

With her first hello 

She gave new meaning to this empty world of mine 

There'll never be another love, another time 

She came into my life and made the living fine 

She fills my heart 

She fills my heart with very special things 

With angels' songs , with wild imaginings 

She fills my soul with so much love 

That everywhere I go I'm never lonely 

With you my love, who could be lonely 

I reach for her hand-it's always there 

How long does it last 

Can love be measured by the hours in a day 

I have no answers now but this much I can say 

I know I'll need her till the stars all burn away 

And she'll be there 

love and a kiss

Slice Fabrique tip...

2011-06-21T17:19:00.001-06:00

Making Memories send me their new Slice Fabrique and I am so excited to start playing with fabric more and more. I made this card just to test how it cuts fabric and let me tell you, it's just awesome. I actually could not believe how pretty and easy it worked. I cut out 2 butterflies (from the Applique Design Card) from the pink fabric and sew them onto the rest of the card.

Today i want to share a little tip with you regarding the blade...

* There isn’t really a set number of cuts before you know you need to change a blade. It really depends on the type of fabric you cut, the size, and how intricate the cut is. If the blade frays the fabric or doesn’t cut sharply, you will know that you need to change the blade. 

* For thicker materials, be sure to adjust your blade housing ¾" of a turn to the left (Counter clock wise). This lowers the blade to allow Slice Fabrique to cut though thicker materials.

Remember to like all the Making Memories FB Pages... click the images to take you to Face Book:

love and a kiss

and the winners are...

2011-06-21T16:44:00.000-06:00

I made this page for a challenge on the October Afternoon blog.

All the winners were totally randomly chosen... drumroll...
Jenni Bowlin give away: Amanda Johnson! (posted at 12:06pm)
October afternoon give away: Liesbeth (posted at 1:26am)
Making Memories give away: Michelle (posted at 9:58am)

Please email me your addresses... there is a postal strike in Canada at the moment so i will mail it all out ASAP.

love and a kiss

Forty.

2011-06-19T12:41:00.004-06:00

So yes, today is the day. I am so spoilt. Coffee in bed. Calls. Emails. Facebook messages. Love it all. THANK you! We did not go to San Francisco after all. On wednesday Kirstin broke her ankle and tore the ligaments. Ouch. So we cooked, drank some wine, visited with friends, watched movies and read. It was great. IS great.

here's my last 10 lessons...

1-10
11-20
21-30

31/40: Love produces miracles. It absolutely does.

32/40: God always got my back. Always. Hab 3:19

33/40: A man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still. In the same breath a very important life lesson: you can not make someone love you. 

34/40: Forgive. Forgive. Forgive. 70X70.

35/40: Know how much you are forgiven. And build your life around and upon it.

36/40: Jack Johnson's banana pancakes song is just it. 

37/40: Buy yourself some sexy lingerie. teeheee.

38/40: If i could have a wedding song i will choose Fly me to the moon by Joshua Radin.

39/40: learn to love doing laundry. (I actually do)

40/40: Live your life by grace. There is just no other way. Matt 11:28 says... Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace.

My give aways end this week Tuesday. I am going to make myself pretty now.
love and a kiss

Making Memories Give away...

2011-06-15T09:40:00.065-06:00

Today is day 3 of celebrating... yes, for Jaco and me, our 40th are right around the corner. This Saturday he turns 4-0 and Sunday it's my turn. Yikes. But Oprah said many years ago, you can lie about your weight but do not lie about your age. yes, i wear my grey hair proudly. It equals wisdom. : ) (I hope!)

Today i am giving away a Making Memories goodie box. Included will be a Slice Design card! I love Making Memories. They have only been good to me! My journey with them started when i won the Making memories Idols contest in 2006. And now i have been a part of my Idol company for almost 6 years. : ) I adored reading all your life lessons... I read and re-read all of them. Please leave me a comment and tell me more life lessons!! : )

My first 10 life lessons
My second 10 life lessons....

21/40: Eat less and move more. Also, eat food that loves you back. when you start looking at food like this, you will eliminate a lot of junk!

22/40:Getting fit is a long term commitment. I started 18 months ago to exercise. I was totally and wholly unfit. And P.A.C.E. got me to where i can run 5km now. Read more about it here.

23/40: Blogging has been one of the great joys of my life and serves as a diary of our family. Blogger still rocks my world after 6 years.

24/40: I heart photos. I learn that more and more every day. I love everything about it: shooting (in manual), and the editing. it makes me happy.

25/40: Photoshop is the best invention of this age. yes. yes. Ok, and Apple Mac computers. 

26/40: I love movies. Black hawk down, The King's speech, Pride and Prejudice, Avatar, The social network, Far and away, The Gladiator, Shawshank redemption. And so many more. 

27/40: I love music. classical. Piano Concerto No. 21: Andante and The Marriage of Figaro / "Duettino - Sull'aria" (Mozart) is my ultimate favorites. The Marriage of Figaro is the piece that feature in the shawshank redemption. What i love is to see the love my girls are developing for classical music. It makes the heart soar. there is no better description. : )

28/40: Sleep enough. Amen.

29/40: Drink lots of water. I cannot function without water. It's one of the best habits I have every developed.

30/40: Love. Go after a life of love as if your life depended on it—because it does.(1 Cor 14:1). tell the people around you you love them. A lot.

And that's my list for today. I am working on Jaco to write his list too.

till tomorrow

love and a kiss  

October Afternoon give away...

2011-06-14T10:16:00.050-06:00

On this second day of my celebration week... i am giving away some October Afternoon goodies. Oh, it's one of the most delightful scrapbook companies out there... and it helps that their product is... gasp... awesome. : ) So, leave a comment telling me what is one of the best lessons that you have learned in your lifetime. I will announce all the lucky recipients next week sometime.

here is my next 10 things that i have learned in my life:
See the first 10 here.

11/40: A good book is the best companion. Two of my favorite books are 3 Cups of tea and Eat, love, pray.

12/40: This blog post is still after all this time still my favorite and a worthy lesson.

13/40: Being creative is food for your spirit and soul. If i disregard this part of me for long enough it's as if i have a continuous dose of PMS.  

14/40: A wise woman builds her house but the foolish one tears it down with her own hands mouth. (prov 14:1). Sometimes you have to walk very far to retract words.

15/40: It's more blessed to give than to receive. This is how I live my life and this is how i would love to be remembered.

16/40: Friends are more important than things or money. Amen. 

17/40: Delight in little things. A warm afternoon having a sip of bubbly on the deck with the doctor bbq'ing some steaks and corn on the cob. The schnauzers at our feet. What more can we ask for?

18/40: Read the Word. When your feel overwhelmed (happy or sad) read Matthew. Or the Psalms. Or my favorite Philippians. In the message translation. It is always always worth it.

19/40: But if you're content to simply be yourself, your life will count for plenty. Matt 23:12 MSG. Never apologize for being you. You are exactly what the world needs.

20/40: A dog is better than prozac. The only thing they give is love and pleasure. They make you laugh. They love you unconditionally. And yes, Schnauzers are the best. In my very objective opinion.

: )

Stay tuned for some Making Memories goodies tomorrow + the third installment of my lessons learned. I just want to say that i appreciate each and everyone reading my blog. You are the best. If you are reading this on facebook, please come in and have a look.

love and a kiss

Jenni Bowlin give away...

2011-06-13T11:33:00.039-06:00

Today (and the rest of the week) i am doing give ways on my blog in celebration of the big 4-0 which is looming for me next Sunday. I love Jenni Bowlin. So, so, so much. And today i am giving away one box of goodies from JBS. So, leave me a comment and i will choose a random name next week. Yes, all of the give aways this week will only close next week.

This coming weekend is Jaco and my 40th birthday. His is Saturday and mine is Sunday and we agreed to spend it somewhere memorable. So he, me and the girls are going to San Francisco for the weekend. This post by Tara Whitney really inspired me. for Jaku's birthday Saturday i made a reservations here. We cannot wait. I am planning to make it a photo weekend and will tell you all about it.

Here's a few things i have learned in my 40 years:

1/40: Loving God has been the best-est thing i ever decided to do: (psalm 27:4) I'm asking God for one thing, only one thing: To live with him in his house my whole life long. I'll contemplate his beauty; I'll study at his feet. 

2/40: It's better to love and get hurt than to never love at all.

3/40: Fresh Flowers always always cheers me up. 

4/40: My kids' have been the great joy of my life... their names are the only thing i would ever consider tattoo-ing on me. tee-hee.

5/40: Blessed are the flexible for they shall not be bent out of shape.

6/40: I homeschool my girls and I love what Leo said: We believe our kids should learn how to teach themselves, as many of us learned to do as adults. We don’t believe anyone can create a curriculum of knowledge that will prepare our kids for a future that can’t be predicted, for a workforce that is rapidly changing. Instead, they should learn how to figure things out for themselves, to solve problems, to work on their own without being directed. They’re the entrepreneurs of tomorrow.

7/40: Never say never. Seriously. I have said "never" so many times and ended up doing exactly what i called "never" on. 

8/40: Don't judge people... you never know what battles they are fighting.

9/40: Relax. Smile. Pray. Worry is a prayer for chaos.

10/40: Drink coffee. amen.

to be continued tomorrow...

love and a kiss

Slice Idea: Invitations.

2011-06-08T08:00:00.006-06:00

Danielle's card

So, i saw this gorgeous card from Danielle Flanders and totally fell in love with her romantic design. And those little stacked butterflies undone me. So i lifted her in this project: An idea for invitations! This can work for a champagne breakfast, a fancy cocktail, a wedding or any type of party!

I used my Slice elite and the Paper Reverie card to cut the butterflies. I set my sizes on 2 inches and 2½ inches. The bottom butterfly is from the Paper Reverie collection. I used hot glue to adhered the butterflies together. I adhered the pin between the 1st and 2nd butterfly. So each card has 3 butterflies.

To make it interesting, i used 3 types of patterned paper. Are those little bottles of sparkling wine not the sweetest ever? Any questions? Please ask them here, on my blog in the comments.

love and a kiss

Happy Birthday dear Jana!

2011-06-07T07:21:00.000-06:00

I'm not alone, I really believe
You never go, You never leave
Here and now, You always stay
“I love you” could not be said a better way

It's everything You've promised
There's no greater love than this
From prophets until today
A man laying down His life for His friends
Your sacrifice has spoken, You gave everything
And “I love you” could not be said
A better way

I am forgiven, I clearly see
It's why You came to do all you did for me
Trading earth with heaven, You took my place
“I love you” could not be said
A better way

Because You redeem, I know what's to come
Everything I could lose here, You've already won
So You have my surrender, with passion obey
“I love you” could not be said
A better way

- A Better way by Downhere 

________

 Happy Birthday Jana. My heart is filled with love and adoration for you. You are incredible. You are made of awesome.

love and kiss

Wilna

dance...

2011-06-06T15:13:00.000-06:00

This past weekend was our dance recital. With 6 shows in 4 days it was a stretch for all of us but now we are done for the year. Today we are cruising around the house taking a break. Tomorrow is Jana's birthday and then we are in the home stretch finishing the school year. This is always the busiest time of the year for me.

Some good news: Heb 13: 5 (Amplified Bible) for He [God] Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!]

Talk soon

love and a kiss

Making layers with Slice...

2011-06-02T00:17:00.003-06:00

Today i will show you how to make this card with your slice. Many of the Making Memories design cards have the layer feature and it's awesome. Just a simple way to create one element with different parts. I used the Dilly Dally design card to make this flower and title. Check out this little video (about 2:30 minutes) that shows you how to.

Layering with the Slice. from Wilna Furstenberg on Vimeo.

love and a kiss

Learning....

2011-05-31T11:03:00.000-06:00

I am a picture taker. That's how i think of myself. And i don't think it will ever change. I have discovered a new love for taking pictures thanks to Dani van Steelandt. I attended her workshop this past weekend and I am sure i will do it again (and again). Loved every moment. Here's a few images from the weekend. It was wonderful and creative and inspiring. Just like Dani self.

I am so excited to start taking more pictures (i have a shoot this afternoon) and to learn more and embark on this new and exciting journey.

love and a kiss  

Slice deisgn card winner...

2011-05-31T10:35:00.000-06:00

I am happy to announce that Stasia Sloma won the design card!! Please email me your snail mail address and I will mail it out to you.

love and a kiss
Wilna

Slice design card give away!!

2011-05-26T08:00:00.000-06:00

Today i want to give you a few tips on using the amazing Slice Repositionable Spray adhesive:

Wash your cutting mat with warm soapy water. Dry it with a towel. Spraying the adhesive on a clean mat makes a HUGE difference.
Be careful where you spray your mat... i found out the hard way that the spray creates a sticky layer wherever it falls... (i.e your keyboard, mouse etc). Don't ask.
Give the mat a spray or two.
Have a look at this little video.
Enjoy a wonderful slice experience! : )

any questions? please ask!

THEN! I am giving away this cool BIG KIDS design card today! Please leave me a comment to be entered into the draw!

Also, today i have projects on other blogs... click the images to visit them... On the dream page i used my slice to cut butterflies and then stamped them with a butterfly stamp. : )

love and a kiss

Slice Tools...

2011-05-19T08:00:00.006-06:00

So, for the past couple of weeks I have been doing some Slice Tutorials:

Slice Bravissimo card
Using the Slice hands free kit.
Slice Positioning

So today, i want to show you this video explaining all the cool Slice tools that you can use with the slice. It comes in a beautiful case which keeps everything together. Have a look!

So, for this week's project, i used the tools and played with them in making this page. : )
Paper and Ribbon: Paper Reverie. Rosette: Bravissimo. Flowers: Noteworthy. Girl die cut: Bravissimo design card.

I used the paper piercer to make these holes and used pink thread to stitch it. : ) I used the tweezers to pick up that little dot and putting some glue behind it.

Thanks for stopping by my blog. I appreciate it. : ) If you are on Facebook, be sure to become a FAN of our SLICE FACEBOOK FAN PAGE so you can be the first to know about new products, project ideas, tips & tricks, and giveaways too!

love and a kiss
wilna

October Afternoon Blog hop winner.

2011-05-15T12:07:00.001-06:00

is.... Leah said...amazing little cards...thanks for the inspiration and the giveaway! 7:17 AM
Leah... please email me your address. : )

Quiet weekend. Sun. Run. Eat. Sleep. Love. and yes... pray. And pictures: this is my sweet Abby puppy. She is one little bundle of joy to me. I am taking a wonderful photography class and we had to take some pictures for an assignment and she was the most willing and happy subject.

Contemplating: Ef 3:20: "God can do anything, you know--far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us."

love and a kiss

Slice tutorial: positioning.

2011-05-11T18:30:00.000-06:00

It's Thursday and time for another Slice tutorial. I love working with my slice and I use the Slice Elite. *insert smile*
Last week, Pamela asked this question in the comments: I would really like to know more about lining up your cuts so that you don't cut into other areas you don't want to, and can maximize the use of your paper. It's very hard to see were the blade will start cutting and were it will end. Does this makes sense? Yes! what a great question. With this week's tutorial, i will show you how to position your slice to optimize your paper. I want to encourage you to play along as this is a great exercise in getting it down.

Step 1

Step 1: For this page i want to (again) cut out a few negative shapes. I am using a star because my page is about my girls' dance. I used the Applique Basics design card and chose this star. I used a piece of cut off patterned paper just to cut out the shape.
Do you see the x on the design in this picture? That's to indicate where the slice will begin to cut.

Step 2

Step 2: Take the shape you just cut out and without lifting it from the cutting board, mark with a black marker the exact spot where the x is on the slice.

Step 3

Step 3: Now place your shape wherever you want on the page and trace it with a pencil. Note the position of the shape. I am still keeping it "upright" meaning that with my tracings, the slice will start cutting in the lower left corner of the star. I hope this makes sense to you!

step 4

Now, select the shape again on your slice and press "SELECT". The slice will move the blade to where the x is on the shape on the slice screen. So, in this picture, i looked through the Plexiglas to make sure the blade is on the lower left point of the traced star. Cut it out.

Step 5

Step 5: as you can see here, i am still learning. My placing is about 1 or 2mm off, but you know what? I am doing way better with the tracings that just guessing. See how close you can cut now?

Step 6

Step 6: When all your shapes are cut out, then erase the pencil lines. Now we are ready to finish the page.

I traced the stars with glue and glittered the edges. I used the Bravissimo design card for the word. The papers is from the Making Memories Just chillin line. Thank you for visiting this blog. If you have any questions, please ask! I am happy to help.

love and a kiss

October Afternoon Blog Hop...

2011-05-11T06:00:00.038-06:00

So today we are doing a blog hop with October Afternoon...we are showing the wonderful Rubber Charms (and more rubber charms) that's well... so charming! Our whole design team is playing and we each post a link to the next person's blog where you can look at more charming projects and be inspired!

The next link to follow from my blog is to Vivian's blog.

ALSO, i am giving away one set of Rubber Charms here today... so leave me a comment.

For my project i made some cards. I wanted to remind myself of a few good principles and all i can say is making these four cards comforted, cheered and encouraged me. I hope they do the same for you.

love and a kiss

Quick share....

2011-05-10T14:42:00.000-06:00

1. This is a page I made for Jenni Bowlin Studio May kit. I cut the butterflies with my slice. : )
2. Speaking of the Slice... the winner of the design card is Jen (posted at 9:58). Please email me your address so I can mail it out.
3. Tomorrow something fun is happening right here... please visit!
4. Kirstin (in the picture above) is baking cupcakes today. Chocolate ones.
5. For me and anyone who might need it today: The Lord God is my Strength, my personal bravery, and my invincible army; He makes my feet like hinds' feet and will make me to walk [not to stand still in terror, but to walk] and make [spiritual] progress upon my high places [of trouble, suffering, or responsibility]! (Hab 3:19 Amp)

love and a kiss

Slice Tutorial...

2011-05-05T08:00:00.002-06:00

Hello! Today i am so excited to present this little video tutorial that i made with my Nikon D7000... ok, am not there yet, but at least i know where to switch the video button on. I am demonstrating the wonderful MM Slice Handsfree kit... it's really fabulous: Just watch. This is the page i am showing you how to make. I used the Paper Reverie design card for the butterflies and the Party design card for the word happy.

Here's the video:

Making Memories Slice handsfree kit... from Wilna Furstenberg on Vimeo.
And making a butterfly page too.

: )

Wilna

As a special happy day, I am giving away one Basic Elements design card today. Please leave a comment and your name will be entered into the draw. : )
love and a kiss

Sunday...

2011-05-01T13:32:00.000-06:00

The new Jenni Bowlin Studio Mercantile kit is debuting today. All I can say is: I am in love. I cannot remember really enjoying the creative process so much in a long time: to me it was not just making pages but a real emotional connection. I should hope that these pages I made would one day in the future be used to define who i am as a scrapbooker. Yes. i love them THAT much. Here's a little peek i put together. You can see all of my pages + details here. But look at the whole design team's creations... whoa. So inspiring.
I ran 5 km today. I am not telling how long it took me. Maybe one day i will. But i do love what Leo said about exercise: (btw, i just typed that word for the first time in my life correctly) (see the whole article here) #18. Fitness doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a long process, a learning process, something that happens in little bits over a long period. I’ve been getting fit for five years now, and I still have more to learn and do. But the progress I’ve made has been amazing, and it’s been a great journey. For me it's been almost 2 years. And I love it. love love love it.
May 1st. I am having a gratitude session. The sun/son is shining in my life. words cannot begin to describe my thankfulness to God: I thank you Lord.
Cleaning a bit: I carried all my upstairs furniture on the deck. I love the simplicity of the emptiness of the room now. We should make life simpler sometimes. It's not the tragedies that kills us, it's the messes. (can't remember who said that)
What's more beautiful than fresh flowers?
Loved the royal wedding. My favorite pictures here.
Listening to Louise Setara... love the tone... reminds me of Eva Cassidy.
Thank you for still reading this blog. : )

love and a kiss

Making Memories Bravissimo design card...

2011-04-28T08:00:00.001-06:00

Today I have a little tutorial on how to create layers using your Making Memories Slice and in particular the Bravissimo Design card. I used a Bravissimo Rosette and added a center that I used my slice to cut. I love my hot glue gun and used it to adhere all the pieces and create a layered and dimensional effect. Here are some pictures and the sizes of the pieces as I cut them. Let me just say that the new slice Elite is... amazing. : )

love and a kiss

A few pages to share...

2011-04-26T12:20:00.000-06:00

This first page is for a friend. This is the most beautiful baby girl and my friend Merisa took the picture herself... : ) I used Making Memories Dilly Dally collection here.

This is my Jana girl. And you can see some Making Memories Bravissimo here. Love me some Making Memories. : )

A reminder today that God is near to you! Matt 11: ^28-30"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."

love and a kiss (and a smile)

happy Birthday Kirstin!!!

2011-04-21T13:24:00.002-06:00

we love and adore you. you are special. your worth is more than diamonds.

love and a kiss

still here...

2011-04-18T18:35:00.000-06:00

Yes... i am still here and happily breathing.... it's just that...

I had a bout of a cold a week or so ago.
i have been doing taxes and finished it. yahoo.
exercising....to get in shape for the summer.
working on a couple of design projects.
playing angry birds on my 27" iMac... (oh no... a little addicting).
got a new Slice elite from Making Memories... oh i love them so.
just done with the Prince Albert Festival of dance where i volunteered and where my girls danced in a zillion dances.... ok, maybe not a zillion but thirteen. which is a lot of hair and make up and driving.
hanging out with my friends.
and in this picture i am all dressed up for the PA business awards where our clinic SuperMed was nominated as best new venture.
please note my cute coach wrist bag. (insert grin) This was one of my best purchases ever. I actually slept over the price and bought it any way and now i am still so in love with it.
Tomorrow the King's Speech is coming out on DVD. I. can't. wait. It's the best.
All the girls in this house is looking forward to the royal wedding.... have you seen the spoof? It went viral you know.
we had another 15 inches of snow after ALL the snow melted. I was stunned.

God is good. live simply, eat well, say no to nonsense and smile.
love and a kiss

Sometimes it's hard...

2011-03-30T15:39:00.000-06:00

To get back into a routine. This week has been busy for me (well, social counts for busy right?) I have been productive but still the hours in the day is not enough. I made this page for the October Afternoon blog and i cannot say enough how much i love their product. Love love love.

So today i want to leave you with some good news! James 1 ^5-8If you don't know what you're doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You'll get his help, and won't be condescended to when you ask for it. Ask boldly, believingly, without a second thought. People who "worry their prayers" are like wind-whipped waves. Don't think you're going to get anything from the Master that way, adrift at sea, keeping all your options open.

Someone once said that worry is a prayer for chaos. Let's have the faith of God pertaining to us!

love and a kiss

New blog design...

2011-03-28T21:41:00.000-06:00

If you read this blog in a reader and or on facebook, i invite you to come and check it out in real mode... i re-designed it and am so happy. I heart blogger.
This blog has come such a long way since i started in 2005.
Good times!

away and back again...

2011-03-28T13:55:00.002-06:00

This past week we went on a trip. My girls dance and they had a competition in Regina...300km from our house. and my warm bed. So we loaded up and headed out a few days earlier because we live in this harsh and unforgiving province and sometimes it takes days to trek across the prairies. Lo and behold on Tuesday we set off to Moose Jaw and as usual we didn't check the road conditions. You see the big problem in Saskatchewan is the break up season: when the sun and the snow marries and you have this match made in hell called ice. On said day, another party entered this equation called blowing snow and when we got 100km far from home to Saskatoon, my nerves were shot and i needed wine and prayer. I said to Jaku that he probably will make it to Moose Jaw (another 200km) but I don't think he will make it with me. Because I was in no condition to be a passenger... clutching the car door and whimpering, occasionally calling out because I cannot see the road. Um, no. So, we canceled our stay in Moose Jaw and booked a room in Saskatoon and had some wine and a stress free night. The next morning, the sun glowed outside and actually melted the ice so we can drive in relative peace. You really never know how much you love the heat of the sun until you live on the prairies in melt season.

I did take my camera with and this was sadly the only picture i took. I am such a terrible picture taker. The girls did great in the dance competition. Tia won a gold medal for her Lyrical solo and silver for her ballet solo. Kirstin and her friend won gold for their ballet duet. Almost all their groups won 1st place. And I stand corrected but i think Tia's small lyrical group won an award. Totally made of awesome.

Our stay in Regina was cold. The temperature was around -4℃ but the wind chill was extreme. Jaku says I (always) exaggerate but it literally felt like -45℃ in that wind. The wind blowing in Regina reminded me of the winds in the Cape, South Africa. Plus the cold. yikes.

so Sunday night we came home and hugged and hugged and hugged our four legged babies... and kissed them plenty. I just had to snap this picture. Mac and Abby is an instant tonic for cold and extreme driving conditions. We all cuddled up and watched 12 episodes of the Big Bang Theory (ok, about 4) and laughed at every line. all is good in the world again. At least the wind is not howling today.

staying warm and wishing for a fast melt season,
love and a kiss

October is beautiful...

2011-03-21T16:16:00.001-06:00

Especially when they invite you to be a part of their creative team. I am so happy... i am still dancing around my house. Check the October Afternoon blog daily this week for introductions to the new team... my turn comes Friday. Thank you Amanda, for making it such a happy place for us.

This week is Dance Competition in Regina and all of us are going! We are taking a bit of a break from all things electronic which, i am told, is not always a bad thing. So, have a wonderful week and remember to smile and pray.

love and a kiss

Upcoming class...

2011-03-18T10:28:00.000-06:00

I am so happy to announce that i am part of this class! it a class that consists of a whole month of working with patterned paper. There are 4 teachers as you can see! I must say that Debbie Hodge is a genius in putting together classes... it's really wonderful working with her and Tami.

The class is very in depth and full of examples. You can read more about it here! &
Register here.

In other news, this weekend we (my girls) have our competition dance rehearsals Saturday and a performance on Sunday. It's so wonderful to have 2 extraordinary organizers in Tia and Kirstin who has everything planned to the last detail: including hair and make up. I am taking my Kindle with me on Saturday... i passed the torch in making buns and doing make-up. But i will probably be taking pictures. That part i don't want to give up... yet. Talk soon!

love and a kiss

so many good things!

2011-03-14T12:25:00.000-06:00

These past 2 days have been filled with so many good things for me. Not so tangible good things... and a wonderful contentment. Why do we forget to be content so quickly?
I just want to share this picture that for some reason makes me want to jump and skip and sing hallelujahs. If you click it it will make it bigger. I mean how gorgeous is this?

Reading James (in the Message) and i just love this: James 4...The proverb has it that "he's a fiercely jealous lover." And what he gives in love is far better than anything else you'll find. It's common knowledge that "God goes against the willful proud; God gives grace to the willing humble."

love and a kiss

heaven...

2011-03-11T15:01:00.000-06:00

Last weekend i made this lovely (amazing and wonderful) desert for friends and i want to share it here... it's from Jamie Oliver's new book 30 minute meals which is one of the most beautiful cook books I have ever seen. It was a gift from my mother-in-law which makes it even more special. On page 121 you can find this desert. You cannot BELIEVE how wonderful it is and how great it tastes. Unbelievable.

Ingredients:
For the crust: One pocket puff pastry. You can find it with the crusts in your supermarket and it comes in a box with 2 pockets of puff pastry. I made the recipe double so i used both pockets.

For the filling: (to make 12 like i did, double it) 125ml creme fraise, Zest of one orange, 1 table spoon light brown sugar, one egg, i teaspoon vanilla.

For the sauce: (again, if you are making 12, double it) Juice of one orange, 4 table spoons light brown sugar.

How to:
The most difficult part is the crust. (and that's easy) LOL.
1. Roll out one of the pockets of puff pastry about this big

2. Next sprinkle some cinnamon on there and roll it up.

3. Cut the roll up in 6 pieces and place them in a muffin pan.

4. Using your fingers, make the little rolls into nests. The will not be perfect, but that's ok.
Now bake them on for 10 minutes at 200 degrees Celsius. (390 F)

5. When they come out, take a teaspoon and open up the nests again...gently.
6. Now make the filling. Mix all the filling ingredients together and pour it into the nests. it's ok if it overflows... but add a little to each nest and then go back till all the filling it gone.

7. Stick it back into the oven for another 10 minutes... while they are baking, make the sauce by whisking the orange juice and sugar till all the sugar is melted and then another minute or so. Be careful as this can be so hot.

8. When the tarts are done baking, they will still be a little wobbly in the middle, so let them stand for about 5 minutes then take them out carefully, place on a plate and drizzle the sauce on top. You will see the delight on the faces as they taste it. These flavors combined to absolute heaven. seriously.

The winner of the little mini album is: Theresa! (you posted at 1:41 pm) please email me your address!!!

love and a kiss

Introducing... : )

2011-03-08T08:00:00.121-06:00

Today i have a new little CoffeeCupAlbum edition coming out on 2peas... and for some reason this one is my favorite one to date. I want to show you here (with a tutorial) how i made the cover. Leave me a comment and you can win the cover (that i am showing how to make) and a set of the downloads! : )

So this is the cover we will be making today.

Take a tall Starbucks cup and remove the bottom and roll up the rim (like i explain in the instructions)

I usually sand the inside of the cup to make it adhere to the cardboard more easily.

After you have stretched the cup out, (again refer to the instructions) you are ready to start.

I used some Jenni Bowlin for Ranger ink (brown sugar) and sprayed the top of the cup. Add a few extra shots so that the ink start to drip off.

I used my Making Memories slice and cut out some leaves for the cover.

The cards i used are Paper Reverie and the Think Pink card.

Adhere the leaves to the front of the cover. I used Scotch's quick dry glue.

Next add something pink. I love the Making Memories Valentine collection and used the love tickets. I used a hot glue gun and adhered it so the natural bend of the ticket was still obvious.

I printed out the little hedge hog (part of the PNG files of the kit) and then using a 2½ inch scallop punch, i punched it out. Then i punched out another piece of white paper and using glue, adhered them together to make one strong scalloped circle.

Using the hot glue gun, i adhered the hedge hog on top of the love tickets. as you can see in the picture, it gives a lovely 3D effect.

I added some small details from Making Memories Flutter collection.

Here you can see the little flowers i added. ❀

Next i covered the whole cover with modge podge. I love the idea of making the cover water proof and it also gives it a finished look.


Using my cropodile, i inserted 2 white eyelets to thread the ribbon through. : ) and that's your cover. Now you can just print the pages, add your pictures and some writing and you have a gorgeous little album.

Remember to leave me a comment to stand a chance to win this cover and the downloads of the pages. If you have any questions, please also leave a comment.

love and a kiss

Would anyone be interested in buying an already printed version of the CoffeeCupAlbums?
Included will be:
1. one coffeecup (just the cup, unadorned)
2. all 6 pages
3. the image for the front

i am thinking of putting all this together and the you can buy it and i will mail it out the same day. The price will be around $15 to 20 depending on how far i have to mail it.
This is just a poll. You are not committing to buy anything here! : )

CoffeeCupAlbum: My whole collection...

2011-03-07T08:00:00.015-06:00

Just a quick post! I made a new CoffeeCupAlbum edition (Spring- debuting tomorrow!) and when i got all my albums together (I am missing my Fall one) they all just looked so cute together and i wanted to show you. Here's a little peek of the Spring album, and tomorrow, i will have a tutorial on here showing you how i made the cover for the new album. + an album give away.

love and a kiss

Sunday challenge for you...

2011-03-06T11:47:00.001-06:00

This was my Friday night challenge for the crop and i want to give it here as a Sunday creative challenge. It closes tonight at 10pm (CST). please read:
*floating in through the window and going around giving high fives*
My challenge is as follows:

Using your favorite quote... make a page. amen.

And if you want to break my rules go ahead... i am cleaning house today, so not a lot of stuff will be bothering me...hahahaha. Anyway, i am a terrible teacher as i love to encourage creativity and thinking outside of the box. So, if you break the rules you get extra points... and if you don't then you also get extra points. Please don't fire me. That's how i roll. *brushes shoulder*
I recently (friday) discovered pinterest and i love it so much. That's where i got the idea from for the quotes. That Neil Patric Harris quote just kills me. it's that awesome. *looks away coolly*

DO YOU LOVE ME? Not yet? well, i created a download with the quote i used... you can find it here. Now you should. love. me. *accepting the blowing kisses*

PRIZE: everyone who participates in this challenge will be entered into a draw to win a Jenni Bowlin goodie box sponsored by yours truly.... YAY!!! One winner will be announced tonight at 10 pm (CST) *clapping hands excitedly* *giggles*

POST YOUR PAGES: Take a picture and post it in cyberspace and link me in the comment section...make sure your shutter speed and aperture is correct. I will award points. I have a ruler. *i saw you shaking your head!!! I did see!!*

DEADLINE: 10pm tonight... I will do housework and you must be creative... *sulks with extended bottom lip*

*jumps up from desk chair * *start scrubbing the floor*
love and a kiss

NOTE: This challenge is now closed.... thank you to all 3 girls who played! will all 3 of you email me and i will send you something lovely! wilna71 at yahoo dot ca.

: )

first scrapbook pages!

2011-03-05T11:51:00.000-06:00

So, over at the JBS message board we are having the "be our guest crop" and it's all in one word: FUN!!!! Last night we started a thread to post our very first scrapbook page and it's taking us down memory lane to see everyone's pages! It's not too late to join us for the rest of the weekend!!

First i want to show you one of my favorite pages ever, (from 2003) called strawberries and cream. Can you believe how white Jana's hair was?

And then, here's my very first page (21 March 2003):

have a wonderful, nostalgic Saturday!

love and a kiss

best pancakes on earth...

2011-03-03T09:01:00.000-06:00

According to my girls, this is the best pancakes recipe ever. (In Canada, it's called pancakes and not flapjacks or plaatkoekies). Jana is particularly impressed with herself because she found it online somewhere. So, Tia's been making it constantly for the past 3 days. This morning Jaco and i went out early to take his truck in for a service and when i arrived home Tia was already making a batch to surprise her sisters for breakfast. This is the happy face that met the pancake breakfast. Priceless. I will now share the recipe. It caused consternation because the girls feel it's theirs and that i should omit the teaspoon vanilla. oops. and the fact that if you use salted butter, not to add any more salt. But i will not tell you that.

herewith the recipe:

1 cup all purpose flour

3 teaspoons baking powder

2 table spoons sugar

½ cup of milk

2 eggs

6 tablespoons butter melted.

Now mix it all up and bake the pancakes. amen.

love and a kiss

The weekend in pictures...

2011-03-01T13:08:00.000-06:00

We had a great weekend of doing nothing really. The dogs needed a groom desperately so we went to Saskatoon for a night. We had a great dinner at the Keg and saw the King's speech which is an incredibly good movie. Tia did a Justin Bieber impression and we all laughed too much...(they saw Never say never). Now we have perfectly groomed Schnauzers, Collin won the Oscar and Abby is at last making a break through training her dragon. All is right in the world. : )

I read this amazing piece yesterday and thought that it will be perfect to share here: 2 Cor 4 We've been surrounded and battered by troubles, but we're not demoralized; we're not sure what to do, but we know that God knows what to do; we've been... terrorized, but God hasn't left our side; we've been thrown down, but we haven't broken. What they did to Jesus, they do to us—trial and torture, mockery and murder; what Jesus did among them, he does in us—he lives! Our lives are at constant risk for Jesus' sake, which makes Jesus' life all the more evident in us. While we're going through the worst, you're getting in on the best!

love and a kiss

Mark your calendar!

2011-02-25T16:01:00.000-06:00

We cordially invite you to "Be Our Guest" at our first ever online crop which will take place next weekend on our new and improved message board complete with chat room! Please help us spread the word! It's going to be great fun with lots of quirky games, inspiring challenges, and chats with our designers. We will be giving away lots of gift cards to JBS Mercantile, plus we have two amazing top prizes! First Prize is a Guest Designer spot for the April JBS Mercantile Kit Club ($75+ value) plus a gift box of new "Be Our Guest" goodies ($75+ value). Second Prize is a Guest Star spot right here on the JBS Inspiration Blog with a gift box of new "Be Our Guest" goodies ($75+ value). You can't win if you don't play, so we hope you'll find time to "Be Our Guest" next weekend!

love and a kiss

My sweet Abby...

2011-02-24T19:30:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to quickly share.

: ) off to watch American Idol. yeah!

love and a kiss

Middle of the week.

2011-02-23T14:26:00.000-06:00

working | I am working on this Spring CoffeecupAlbum that will be available in my 2peas store March 8th. The album turned out so gorgeous... i will have a little tutorial on my blog on how I decorated the cover also on March 8.

reading | I am reading this book called "Spud". It's hilarious. It's very South African and i am LOL all the time. So reminded again that laughter is medicine for the soul.

feeling | I have a little itch in my throat and are taking Vit C and Echinacea. I absolutely dislike not feeling good. I want to get on the treadmill...but i will wait one more day.

listening | To an iTunes genius Mix: Ingrid Michaelson, Colbie Caillat, Dave Barnes. So awesome.

right now | we have a winter break which means no dance and for me: no driving around. Loving every second of the slow week.

worth thinking about | 2 Cor 5: 5 Our firm decision is to work from this focused center: One man died for everyone. That puts everyone in the same boat. He included everyone in his death so that everyone could also be included in his life, a resurrection life, a far better life than people ever lived on their own. : )

love and a kiss

lucky in love...

2011-02-19T11:39:00.000-06:00

my husband has the weekend off so i am one happy girl. And it's very cold today so it's perfect for cooking and reading and being a bit creative... : )
I want to just announce the winner of the Making Memories Valentine product: Nitasha!!! Please email me your address and i will send some goodies your way! : )

The i want to promote something i made a while ago! If you are planning a party for a child or a friend and want some cute invitations? Then have a look at this: (you can find it here on 2peas)

Have a wonderful weekend! See you soon...
love and a kiss

happy Valentine!

2011-02-14T10:27:00.001-06:00

May this day of love and wonder find you happy and content!
You can see all the images for this mini album on the Making Memories blog as well as 2peas.
Leave a comment and you can win some of the Making Memories' Jet'Adore collection.

love and a kiss

Valentine...

2011-02-12T12:05:00.001-06:00

I *heart* Valentine. And even though we never really buy gifts and cards for each other, this year a friend and i decided to cook a dinner for our husbands. I want to show you what's going to be on the menu... yum...

This white chocolate cake: (the recipe here in afrikaans only... sorry)

and lamb shanks. This is only a picture but the recipe's my own...

I will take some pictures of the night and the table... and post them here sometime.
Tell me, what are you doing this Valentine?
Listen to my love songs (the the side bar) and remember to spread some love around...today and everyday.

love and a kiss

Would you like the option to buy a printed version of these albums?
	yes
	no

he{ART}

Kind, Smart, Important.

Paxil and Prozac.

Gardeners' Digest.

my favorite little thing...

Is this for you?

Canadian Citizens.

creative goals.

My week in pictures...

Happy new year!

Touching posts from 2011.

December journal | 23, 24 and 25

December Journal | TwentySix

Merry Christmas...2011

December Journal | TwentyTwo

December Journal | TwentyOne

December Journal | Eighteen

December Journal | Nineteen

December Journal | Sixteen

December Journal | Fifteen

December Journal | Fourteen

December Journal | Thirteen

December Journal | Ten

December Journal | Nine

December Journal | Eight

December Journal | Seven

December Journal | Five

December Journal | Three

December Journal | Two

Grace for today.

December Journal | One

A few details...

December Journal: pre-pages

Creative.

Christmas is coming...

heART studio.

Help...

Just saying...

Slice Fabrique headband.

A few things...

BFF's

Friday love...

oh, for the cuteness

fall 2011

Slice Fabrique: teacher's gift idea

iheartphotos!

What moving tought me

*sticks head around the corner* *waves hand*

letter.

Slice Fabrique: Vintage seasons card.

Lovely girl...

Slice Fabrique: mirror and shadow tutorial.

Sometimes i wish...

i he(art) photos.

A few things...

love story.

Slice Fabrique tip...

and the winners are...

Forty.

Making Memories Give away...

October Afternoon give away...

Jenni Bowlin give away...

Slice Idea: Invitations.

Happy Birthday dear Jana!

dance...

Making layers with Slice...

Learning....

Slice deisgn card winner...

Slice design card give away!!

Slice Tools...

October Afternoon Blog hop winner.

Slice tutorial: positioning.

October Afternoon Blog Hop...

Quick share....

Slice Tutorial...

Sunday...

Making Memories Bravissimo design card...

A few pages to share...

happy Birthday Kirstin!!!

still here...

sticks head around the corner waves hand