After my miscarriage in September I realized that I no longer like Facebook. There's so much more to life than posting meaningless things for the world to see.
I don't care that you are tired.
I don't care that you just woke up and are getting ready for work.
I don't care that you are hungover.
I don't care that you checked in at Applebee's.
I really just don't care about all that mundane crap.
Before the miscarriage I was one of those people that posted meaningless posts just because. Why did I do it? I don;t know. I was sucked in to it. Now I have realized that all that is is just meaningless time waster and really most people don't care what you are doing every second of the day. I have realized this and it is so much better not having to worry about Facebook 24/7!
I have posted one status update since September 24th, 2011...the day I miscarried.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Thursday, October 13, 2011
The Struggle *cont'd*
I stayed away from all things baby and small child related most of this summer. If we got an invite to a birthday party for one of the many babies we know turning one, I ignored it. Really, you can't ignore it though. It was always on my mind. I was bitter. Very very bitter and then it got worse.
Oh my bitterness got much worse in late August or early September when someones else announced their pregnancy. I was mad. Sure I should have been happy but I couldn't be. Oh there's plenty of reasons I was mad. Why is that person pregnant after only a few months? Why are they pregnant when the spouse doesn't even want a kid. Why not us, who have been trying for two long years and who are ready for a baby? Why them and not us? Yes, bitterness was eating away at me. So much so that I never said congratulations. I am not a nice bitter person at all. Things changed on September 17th though.
After having tracked my insane menstrual cycles for two years I finally started regulating around June of this year. That cycle was about 28 days. The next cycle was around 30. I knew then that we may finally have a chance but I was still hesitant to get excited.
August came and went then September came and I realized that I hadn't had a period. I took a test the first week of September but it came out negative. There went my hopes but again it was still early to tell. I decided I would wait until Ocotber to test again but I cheated. Two weeks after the first test, I tested again after having experienced slight cramping and sore breasts. I saw what I was not expecting...I got a positive test! I was so shocked. After two long years of never ending disappointments I finally got what we have been waiting for. Andrew was so excited as was I. Suri was eager to start choosing names. I took three tests total, on three different days because I couldn't believe it.
It was the most amazing time.
Unfortunately our happiness was short lived.
To be continued.....
Oh my bitterness got much worse in late August or early September when someones else announced their pregnancy. I was mad. Sure I should have been happy but I couldn't be. Oh there's plenty of reasons I was mad. Why is that person pregnant after only a few months? Why are they pregnant when the spouse doesn't even want a kid. Why not us, who have been trying for two long years and who are ready for a baby? Why them and not us? Yes, bitterness was eating away at me. So much so that I never said congratulations. I am not a nice bitter person at all. Things changed on September 17th though.
After having tracked my insane menstrual cycles for two years I finally started regulating around June of this year. That cycle was about 28 days. The next cycle was around 30. I knew then that we may finally have a chance but I was still hesitant to get excited.
August came and went then September came and I realized that I hadn't had a period. I took a test the first week of September but it came out negative. There went my hopes but again it was still early to tell. I decided I would wait until Ocotber to test again but I cheated. Two weeks after the first test, I tested again after having experienced slight cramping and sore breasts. I saw what I was not expecting...I got a positive test! I was so shocked. After two long years of never ending disappointments I finally got what we have been waiting for. Andrew was so excited as was I. Suri was eager to start choosing names. I took three tests total, on three different days because I couldn't believe it.
It was the most amazing time.
Unfortunately our happiness was short lived.
To be continued.....
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
The Struggle
Awhile back Andrew and I decided we were ready to add to our little family. We had a daughter, a house, two adorable dogs, decent jobs, and a great marriage. It was time to move on to the next chapter of our lives. Little did I know that next chapter would take years and end in heartbreak.
In August of 2009 we decided it was time to start trying to have a baby. I went into it excited and thinking things would happen quickly. It happened that way with Suri. I got off birth control and then *BAM*, I was pregnant. I figured it would be the same this time around. I was wrong.
While I watched 99.9% of our friends have babies we were struggling to have one of our own. It was a painful process to be apart of. The announcement, the pictures posted, the pregnancy updates, the ultrasound pictures, the baby showers, the births. Of course I was happy for our friends but I couldn't help feeling jealous and wondering why them and not me? At first it wasn't so bad. I had hope. Then the months passed by, more pregnancies were announced, and then eventually babies were being born all while I watched from the sidelines with questions thrown at me about when were we going to have a baby. Hope was fading.
With hope diminishing I learned to put up a wall. When asked if we were going to have more kids I would usually say maybe or eventually but didn't disclose that we had been trying to no avail. Sometimes I would open up to friends or family but it never comforted me to do so. It really only lead to more questions because no one else was or had gone through this. I got to the point where I would act like I really didn't want a baby. It was easier that way. If I pretended to myself and to others then it wouldn't hurt so much everytime I had a let down.
The two year mark, us without a baby and all of them with babies, began looming. I decided I didn't want to be around people with babies or toddlers, yes, even friends. It was too painful to see what I couldn't have. I alienated myself. It was so much easier that way. Two years of seeing pregnant friends, babies, and attending kids birthday parties took a toll on me. Yes, it was easier to just stay away, so I did.
To be continued......
In August of 2009 we decided it was time to start trying to have a baby. I went into it excited and thinking things would happen quickly. It happened that way with Suri. I got off birth control and then *BAM*, I was pregnant. I figured it would be the same this time around. I was wrong.
While I watched 99.9% of our friends have babies we were struggling to have one of our own. It was a painful process to be apart of. The announcement, the pictures posted, the pregnancy updates, the ultrasound pictures, the baby showers, the births. Of course I was happy for our friends but I couldn't help feeling jealous and wondering why them and not me? At first it wasn't so bad. I had hope. Then the months passed by, more pregnancies were announced, and then eventually babies were being born all while I watched from the sidelines with questions thrown at me about when were we going to have a baby. Hope was fading.
With hope diminishing I learned to put up a wall. When asked if we were going to have more kids I would usually say maybe or eventually but didn't disclose that we had been trying to no avail. Sometimes I would open up to friends or family but it never comforted me to do so. It really only lead to more questions because no one else was or had gone through this. I got to the point where I would act like I really didn't want a baby. It was easier that way. If I pretended to myself and to others then it wouldn't hurt so much everytime I had a let down.
The two year mark, us without a baby and all of them with babies, began looming. I decided I didn't want to be around people with babies or toddlers, yes, even friends. It was too painful to see what I couldn't have. I alienated myself. It was so much easier that way. Two years of seeing pregnant friends, babies, and attending kids birthday parties took a toll on me. Yes, it was easier to just stay away, so I did.
To be continued......
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Saturday, May 28, 2011
My First Giveaway!
I am holding a little contest on my 19Eighty Expressions Facebook page. Here are the details!
1. Become a fan of 19Eighty Expressions on Facebook
2. Guess the theme of my latest project and leave a comment on 19Eighty Expressions' Facebook page with your guess.
3. Share the giveaway with friends and family via Facebook or any other social media outlet.
That's all! Super easy.
The first person to guess the theme correctly will receive a set (that's a clue) of my newest creation.
The winner will be announced on Monday, May 30th.
Good luck and have a great day!!
19Eighty Expressions Facebook Fan Page
Sunday, May 15, 2011
My newest toy!
OK, so some of you already know about it. I'm a lot late on writing about my newest toy. It's been at least a week since I got it. It's something I never thought I would want. I didn't see much of a point in having one. I was doing just fine without it then one day I just had to have one. It came out of nowhere, kind of. I've been reading on my phone for awhile but it strains my eyes so I thought maybe an e-reader will be the answer and it was! And this is what it is what I got......
That my friends is a Kindle. I got a Kindle 3! I was stoked and couldn't wait to use it. I actually had a bit of a time choosing between the Kindle and Nook. I chose the Kindle because it had better reviews than the regular Nook. The Nook Color would have hurt my eyes so I nixed that one although it was tempting. As for all the other e-readers on the market, I looked at the specs and reviews on those as well but Kindle won out overall. Other e-readers have capabilities the Kindle doesn't have. I have either found ways around it or found that they weren't that important to me.
I have quite a few books on me Kindle now and plenty more waiting to be uploaded. I have been a reading machine since I got it. The novelty of it has not worn off. I love to read so I doubt it ever will.
That my friends is a Kindle. I got a Kindle 3! I was stoked and couldn't wait to use it. I actually had a bit of a time choosing between the Kindle and Nook. I chose the Kindle because it had better reviews than the regular Nook. The Nook Color would have hurt my eyes so I nixed that one although it was tempting. As for all the other e-readers on the market, I looked at the specs and reviews on those as well but Kindle won out overall. Other e-readers have capabilities the Kindle doesn't have. I have either found ways around it or found that they weren't that important to me.
I have quite a few books on me Kindle now and plenty more waiting to be uploaded. I have been a reading machine since I got it. The novelty of it has not worn off. I love to read so I doubt it ever will.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Determination
Determination. It's a good quality to have. It's sets the unmotivated people apart from the motivated people. It allows one to look at a situation, no matter how complicated, and know they will overcome. It's about not backing down when a challenge arises. Determination gets you where you want to go even if it means taking small steps. I possess this quality. Maybe a little too much of it.
The Mliltary
It started in junior high with a dream of joining the military. I was determined to start a new life, my life. I didn't just want to join any branch of service though. I didn't want to be an airman (although that was my initial plan). I didn't want to be a sailor. I didn't want to be a soldier. I wanted to be a Marine.
I started speaking to the recruiters when I was 17. People questioned my decision. I was too skinny (don't I wish that was the case now). The Marines were too tough. I was joining because I wanted to be surrounded by boys and so on. I made my choice and when I was 18 and had graduated high school I started my journey as a Marine.
Now there really aren't that many women in the Marine's so why did I choose that branch of the service? My answer, because I was determined to do what few (male or female) would ever think to do. I was determined to show myself, despite what some others had said, that I could do it and I did it.
Single Mom
Single motherhood, that was the next big challenge I was determined to face head on. I never really thought I'd have kids so being a single mother definitely never crossed my mind. Having a child was not something I yearned for. I never pictured myself having a big princess wedding, getting married, or having kids. Those were not my dreams but dreams, plans, life...it changes. I became a mom and subsequently a single mom all in a short period of time.
Single motherhood was tough. Especially tough when going through the initial shock of being separated or going through a divorce. Even tougher when you're very young and not yet established in life. And even more tough when you start over again with nothing. No job, no possessions, nothing.
I left my ex-husband on a whim. I didn't give myself time to think about it. If I had then I wouldn't have left. I needed to leave. I left. This meant I was leaving my life behind, my apartment, my job, my furniture, my husband. What I didn't leave behind was my child. Instead I became a single mother. A single mother who was determined to establish a healthy and happy life for her child. I didn't want help. I didn't want pity. I wanted to just get through it. I received no aid. I received no child support. I asked no one for sympathy. In fact I was embarassed. I was 23, about to be divorced, and a single mom with no education aside from high school. All this against me yet I was determined to show myself I could overcome. I did. I am now happily married, educated, and have a good job.
College
I got my associates degree as a single mother. I worked 40 hours a week to support myself and my child. I had my own apartment. I had my own car. I had my child. I had everything I needed all because I was determined.
College was never in my sights. It wasn't something I ever wanted to do. I was going to retire from the military at the age of 38 so why did I need to go to college? Well, life took me on a different route and I enrolled shortly after I got out of the Marines.
I knew that to get anywhere in the workforce an education was key. I didn't drop out of school when I left my ex-husband. Oh no. That would have been easy. Sit around and wallow in my misery. No, not me. Instead I transferred to the local community college and trucked on. It was defnitely hard to work full time (night shift for a few months even), go to school full time, socialize, and have a toddler. I was even going to the gym a few days a week. I am sure I complained a little. I'm sure I was exhausted but I knew I had to do it. I set out to get a degree and I was determined to get one. After 2 1/2 years I had an associates degree.
Determination kicked in and a few years later I had a bachelor's degree. Next a master's but don't mention that in front of Andrew. He thinks I may never stop going to school. He may be right.
Work
And the challenge that influenced me to write this, work.
After the military I had a series of low paying jobs, most of which I knew would lead me nowhere. I soon learned that not only did I need an education but I needed a lot experience as well. I eventually decided that I needed to stick to one field in order to move up in the world. Somehow I landed in accounting. Honestly, I hate math. How did I end up working with numbers? I learned that it's really not that hard as long as I have my trusty calculator and Excel spreadsheets.
My last job is what I credit for getting me to where I am now. That and determination. I knew within the first week at that job that I couldn't stay. I had hopes and dreams of growing out of that postion and moving forward and up. After a year I realized that wasn't to be. I was miserable. I hated the job. I had a deep dislike for some of the people who worked there. I didn't agree with some of the practices. I was going nowhere fast. Rather than look within the company to promote they hired from outside. I was in a dead end job. After that realization hit I knew what I had to do. I was determined to get my experience and get out. I did that and more.
For a long time I wanted to work in the department I now work in. I had been telling people for a long time that I will get in somehow. It's hard but I'll get my foot in the door. I didn't know what I would do within the department to start but I didn't care. I wanted in. Last year I got in. My determination overcame the obstacles (and there were some). Now that I'm in I've already set my eye on the next step. The step that I had planned to get to all this time. I am determined to get where I want to be. I know I will get there. Determination drives me. In the end I will make it happen.
The Mliltary
It started in junior high with a dream of joining the military. I was determined to start a new life, my life. I didn't just want to join any branch of service though. I didn't want to be an airman (although that was my initial plan). I didn't want to be a sailor. I didn't want to be a soldier. I wanted to be a Marine.
I started speaking to the recruiters when I was 17. People questioned my decision. I was too skinny (don't I wish that was the case now). The Marines were too tough. I was joining because I wanted to be surrounded by boys and so on. I made my choice and when I was 18 and had graduated high school I started my journey as a Marine.
Now there really aren't that many women in the Marine's so why did I choose that branch of the service? My answer, because I was determined to do what few (male or female) would ever think to do. I was determined to show myself, despite what some others had said, that I could do it and I did it.
Single Mom
Single motherhood, that was the next big challenge I was determined to face head on. I never really thought I'd have kids so being a single mother definitely never crossed my mind. Having a child was not something I yearned for. I never pictured myself having a big princess wedding, getting married, or having kids. Those were not my dreams but dreams, plans, life...it changes. I became a mom and subsequently a single mom all in a short period of time.
Single motherhood was tough. Especially tough when going through the initial shock of being separated or going through a divorce. Even tougher when you're very young and not yet established in life. And even more tough when you start over again with nothing. No job, no possessions, nothing.
I left my ex-husband on a whim. I didn't give myself time to think about it. If I had then I wouldn't have left. I needed to leave. I left. This meant I was leaving my life behind, my apartment, my job, my furniture, my husband. What I didn't leave behind was my child. Instead I became a single mother. A single mother who was determined to establish a healthy and happy life for her child. I didn't want help. I didn't want pity. I wanted to just get through it. I received no aid. I received no child support. I asked no one for sympathy. In fact I was embarassed. I was 23, about to be divorced, and a single mom with no education aside from high school. All this against me yet I was determined to show myself I could overcome. I did. I am now happily married, educated, and have a good job.
College
I got my associates degree as a single mother. I worked 40 hours a week to support myself and my child. I had my own apartment. I had my own car. I had my child. I had everything I needed all because I was determined.
College was never in my sights. It wasn't something I ever wanted to do. I was going to retire from the military at the age of 38 so why did I need to go to college? Well, life took me on a different route and I enrolled shortly after I got out of the Marines.
I knew that to get anywhere in the workforce an education was key. I didn't drop out of school when I left my ex-husband. Oh no. That would have been easy. Sit around and wallow in my misery. No, not me. Instead I transferred to the local community college and trucked on. It was defnitely hard to work full time (night shift for a few months even), go to school full time, socialize, and have a toddler. I was even going to the gym a few days a week. I am sure I complained a little. I'm sure I was exhausted but I knew I had to do it. I set out to get a degree and I was determined to get one. After 2 1/2 years I had an associates degree.
Determination kicked in and a few years later I had a bachelor's degree. Next a master's but don't mention that in front of Andrew. He thinks I may never stop going to school. He may be right.
Work
And the challenge that influenced me to write this, work.
After the military I had a series of low paying jobs, most of which I knew would lead me nowhere. I soon learned that not only did I need an education but I needed a lot experience as well. I eventually decided that I needed to stick to one field in order to move up in the world. Somehow I landed in accounting. Honestly, I hate math. How did I end up working with numbers? I learned that it's really not that hard as long as I have my trusty calculator and Excel spreadsheets.
My last job is what I credit for getting me to where I am now. That and determination. I knew within the first week at that job that I couldn't stay. I had hopes and dreams of growing out of that postion and moving forward and up. After a year I realized that wasn't to be. I was miserable. I hated the job. I had a deep dislike for some of the people who worked there. I didn't agree with some of the practices. I was going nowhere fast. Rather than look within the company to promote they hired from outside. I was in a dead end job. After that realization hit I knew what I had to do. I was determined to get my experience and get out. I did that and more.
For a long time I wanted to work in the department I now work in. I had been telling people for a long time that I will get in somehow. It's hard but I'll get my foot in the door. I didn't know what I would do within the department to start but I didn't care. I wanted in. Last year I got in. My determination overcame the obstacles (and there were some). Now that I'm in I've already set my eye on the next step. The step that I had planned to get to all this time. I am determined to get where I want to be. I know I will get there. Determination drives me. In the end I will make it happen.
Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.7
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Send Out the Search Team!
I think I have lost my dog Lulu. She's been missing for a few days now. I think she may have wandered into a wild field, aka my back yard.
Sammy has decided to help out on the search to help find her sister.
After a long two days of hacking away at our field of weeds......
Sammy is super happy to see her sis. Oh and the weeds are gone! Well, shorter....
 |
| My field |
Sammy has decided to help out on the search to help find her sister.
 | |||
| Sammy heading into the wilderness |
 | ||
| She's searching... |
 | |
| ...and searching |
 |
| Where are you sister?! |
 | |
| Taking a break |
 | ||
| After a long day of searching |
 | ||||||
| Sammy called in the reinforcements |
After a long two days of hacking away at our field of weeds......
 |
| Wait....what is that? Is that Lu? |
 |
| Sammy found Lulu! |
Sammy is super happy to see her sis. Oh and the weeds are gone! Well, shorter....
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Newest card
Check out my Hello Kitty card HERE. Remember to follow me! That's where I post my cards and other papercraft projects now.
www.19eightyexpressions.blogspot.com
Sunday, March 20, 2011
"Spring Fling" Etsy Treasury
Check out my Etsy"Spring Fling" treasury which features beautiful pink and green images. The creativity of these people amaze me. I found some great shops to start making purchases from. Enjoy! It really is a beautiful treasury.
http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4d86aac0246a8eef4c0fb065/spring-fling?ref=pr_treasury
http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4d86aac0246a8eef4c0fb065/spring-fling?ref=pr_treasury
Friday, March 18, 2011
The Beginning of the End
After that fateful night at the club I realized I wasn't really that much into V. He seemed too possessive for my tastes so I moved on. I still dated him, if you can even call it that, but I dated others as well and was trying to distance myself from him. I was young and having fun with life. He was just a fling for the moment. I never expected it nor wanted it to be more.
In February of 1999 both V and I found out we would be stationed at Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base in California. That was exciting news for me. I was going home! Not really to my home but close enough for me to visit on weekends. I was also excited because I would know someone else there...V. Wait, wasn't I trying to rid myself of him?
V headed out about a week before me. All I knew was he was going to the air station on base. I knew nothing else and I didn't hear from him at all that entire week. A sign?
When I got to Camp Pendleton I found out I was to live in the middle of nowhere. A sparsley populated area of the base miles and miles from anything. Miles and miles away from V. I had no way of contacting him (remember this is before the widespread use of cellphones). I was alone.
I was alone, yes but I was determined. Within a day or two I had hitched a ride down to the air station barracks. There were a ton of barracks. A lot, but that didn't stop me. I was hell bent on finding V for some reason. Why? Wasn't it just a fling? Wasn't I trying to get rid of him when we were in NC? Why was I trying to find him? He had a horrible temper and was possessive. What was I doing?
I started knocking on doors at random until I hit the jackpot. One guy knew where the "new" guy's barracks room was. Could it be? Had I really found V? On this massive base. Among thousands of Marines did I find the one I was looking for? I headed over to the room I was directed to and nervously knocked on the door hoping that the Marine I had just spoken to was correct, that this was the room I would find the "new" guy.
The door opened and there was V.
In February of 1999 both V and I found out we would be stationed at Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base in California. That was exciting news for me. I was going home! Not really to my home but close enough for me to visit on weekends. I was also excited because I would know someone else there...V. Wait, wasn't I trying to rid myself of him?
V headed out about a week before me. All I knew was he was going to the air station on base. I knew nothing else and I didn't hear from him at all that entire week. A sign?
When I got to Camp Pendleton I found out I was to live in the middle of nowhere. A sparsley populated area of the base miles and miles from anything. Miles and miles away from V. I had no way of contacting him (remember this is before the widespread use of cellphones). I was alone.
I was alone, yes but I was determined. Within a day or two I had hitched a ride down to the air station barracks. There were a ton of barracks. A lot, but that didn't stop me. I was hell bent on finding V for some reason. Why? Wasn't it just a fling? Wasn't I trying to get rid of him when we were in NC? Why was I trying to find him? He had a horrible temper and was possessive. What was I doing?
I started knocking on doors at random until I hit the jackpot. One guy knew where the "new" guy's barracks room was. Could it be? Had I really found V? On this massive base. Among thousands of Marines did I find the one I was looking for? I headed over to the room I was directed to and nervously knocked on the door hoping that the Marine I had just spoken to was correct, that this was the room I would find the "new" guy.
The door opened and there was V.
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Wednesday, March 9, 2011
New Adventure...Invitations!
I know I said my other blog would be for my cards but I HAD to show you this. I am so in love with them.
I never planned on making invitations for others. I know how stressful a large order can be for someone like me who works fulltime so I never considered it. That has changed though. A few months ago I was contacted by a friend to make invites for her son's birthday and I agreed to make them. Since then people have been telling me they plan on ordering invites from me for various occasions, mostly birthdays, so I guess now I am doing invitations. I don't mind one bit. In fact I completed my first invite order this weekend.
These invitations are for a birthday party that will take place at a movie theater. I put my creative mind to work and came up with an idea but once I started working on it the entire invitation changed from what I had originally planned. Instead of a one-sided invitation I ended up with a two-sided invitation and much more detail than I imagined. I love how they turned out.
I shipped these out yesterday and I cannot wait for the client to receive them. I wish I could be there to see her daughter's face when she sees them. I am looking forward to the next invite order now!
I never planned on making invitations for others. I know how stressful a large order can be for someone like me who works fulltime so I never considered it. That has changed though. A few months ago I was contacted by a friend to make invites for her son's birthday and I agreed to make them. Since then people have been telling me they plan on ordering invites from me for various occasions, mostly birthdays, so I guess now I am doing invitations. I don't mind one bit. In fact I completed my first invite order this weekend.
These invitations are for a birthday party that will take place at a movie theater. I put my creative mind to work and came up with an idea but once I started working on it the entire invitation changed from what I had originally planned. Instead of a one-sided invitation I ended up with a two-sided invitation and much more detail than I imagined. I love how they turned out.
 | |||
| Movie theater-themed birthday invite |
 |
| Front: The *stars* name is 3D |
 |
| Back: info side |
 |
| A bucket of popcorn spills across the card |
I shipped these out yesterday and I cannot wait for the client to receive them. I wish I could be there to see her daughter's face when she sees them. I am looking forward to the next invite order now!
Friday, March 4, 2011
Eighteen
18...that's how old I was when I met V. Eighteen. So young. So naive.
I met V when I was 18. He was 18 as well. We met right after bootcamp at our MOS school (military occupational school...I think). It was November 1998. We were in North Carolina. We were young. We were free from our parents. We were on our own.
It was my first weekend at MOS school and I wanted to party. Using our investigative skills myself and a friend found out about a hotel party going on off base. Score! Our first night out! It was exciting.
We headed over to the hotel. It was easy to find the room. A bunch of guys were hanging out on the balcony outside. We made our way up and worked our girlish charms on them. It worked. We were in! They told us there was beer in the room so I headed in and saw him. The keeper of the beer. V.
I didn't think much about him at first glance. Maybe I didn't even really see him. My eyes were on the free beer. I was 18 with no way of getting any myself so I had hit the jackpot. V was stocking the fridge with freshly purchased beer. I asked him for one. He wasn't particularly nice to me. Actually he was a total ass (a warning sign?). I somehow managed to get a beer from him and went to hang out with the nice guys. That was the end of that.
But it wasn't.
After awhile at the hotel we all decided to hit a club that we had heard let minors drink. We didn't hesitate to hail a taxi and get over there. We were all in MOS school and had just gotten there that week so none of us had cars yet.
At the club we all had our drinks, were dancing, and talking. A few of the guys...OK all of the guys...were hitting on me but V seemed to ignore me. Why? Everyone else seemed to be interested in me. Plus he was the cutest one out of all the guys. He was my target. I would get him to notice me and I did. Mistake? Eventually we started talking because I had mentioned I was part Puerto Rican. Another guy was as well. It just so happened that V was too.
OK, let me stop there and let the people that know the story of V and I laugh. Done yet? :) That is a whole story in itself. One day I'll write about that.
Once I managed to get V to notice me we danced the night away and spent the rest of the night together. I started to like him. Maybe he started to like me too.
I was 18. So young. So naive.
I met V when I was 18. He was 18 as well. We met right after bootcamp at our MOS school (military occupational school...I think). It was November 1998. We were in North Carolina. We were young. We were free from our parents. We were on our own.
It was my first weekend at MOS school and I wanted to party. Using our investigative skills myself and a friend found out about a hotel party going on off base. Score! Our first night out! It was exciting.
We headed over to the hotel. It was easy to find the room. A bunch of guys were hanging out on the balcony outside. We made our way up and worked our girlish charms on them. It worked. We were in! They told us there was beer in the room so I headed in and saw him. The keeper of the beer. V.
I didn't think much about him at first glance. Maybe I didn't even really see him. My eyes were on the free beer. I was 18 with no way of getting any myself so I had hit the jackpot. V was stocking the fridge with freshly purchased beer. I asked him for one. He wasn't particularly nice to me. Actually he was a total ass (a warning sign?). I somehow managed to get a beer from him and went to hang out with the nice guys. That was the end of that.
But it wasn't.
After awhile at the hotel we all decided to hit a club that we had heard let minors drink. We didn't hesitate to hail a taxi and get over there. We were all in MOS school and had just gotten there that week so none of us had cars yet.
At the club we all had our drinks, were dancing, and talking. A few of the guys...OK all of the guys...were hitting on me but V seemed to ignore me. Why? Everyone else seemed to be interested in me. Plus he was the cutest one out of all the guys. He was my target. I would get him to notice me and I did. Mistake? Eventually we started talking because I had mentioned I was part Puerto Rican. Another guy was as well. It just so happened that V was too.
OK, let me stop there and let the people that know the story of V and I laugh. Done yet? :) That is a whole story in itself. One day I'll write about that.
Once I managed to get V to notice me we danced the night away and spent the rest of the night together. I started to like him. Maybe he started to like me too.
I was 18. So young. So naive.
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Thursday, March 3, 2011
Thinking back....
A few years ago when I was going through my divorce and separation from V people who knew what was going on in my life would comment on how strong I was or they'd state that they didn't know how I could do it. Now yes, those are kind words possibly meant for encouragement but they eventually started to annoy me. I was only doing what I felt any loving mother should do...keep going.
At that time I was in my early 20s, a mother, a fulltime student, and was employed fulltime. I was mother and father to my daughter. I was a single mom.
Did I have a choice? Yes. I could have stayed in my miserable marriage and let my daughter grow up in a hostile environment. I wouldn't have been a single mother then. I could have stayed but I didn't. I chose a different path. The path of single motherhood.
It was a very scary prospect and I think that's what kept me in my marriage for so long but one day something turned on inside and I made the choice to leave. I left everything behind and started over.
I was 23 and the mother of a 2 year old. I was starting over..with nothing.
I mourned the loss of my marriage but eventually I got over it. Life continued for me and my daughter. I stayed in school, I continued to work, I continued to be mommy.
Was I strong? Maybe. But for me it was something I had to do. I wasn't a superwoman or a wonderwoman. I wasn't the only woman experiencing this and I wouldn't be the last. I was just a single mother that had to get by for her sake and her daughter's sake.
Many of us don't expect to be thrust in the single mother role but it happens and what do you do about it if it happens to you? Exactly what I did. Pick up the pieces and keep going.
At that time I was in my early 20s, a mother, a fulltime student, and was employed fulltime. I was mother and father to my daughter. I was a single mom.
Did I have a choice? Yes. I could have stayed in my miserable marriage and let my daughter grow up in a hostile environment. I wouldn't have been a single mother then. I could have stayed but I didn't. I chose a different path. The path of single motherhood.
It was a very scary prospect and I think that's what kept me in my marriage for so long but one day something turned on inside and I made the choice to leave. I left everything behind and started over.
I was 23 and the mother of a 2 year old. I was starting over..with nothing.
I mourned the loss of my marriage but eventually I got over it. Life continued for me and my daughter. I stayed in school, I continued to work, I continued to be mommy.
Was I strong? Maybe. But for me it was something I had to do. I wasn't a superwoman or a wonderwoman. I wasn't the only woman experiencing this and I wouldn't be the last. I was just a single mother that had to get by for her sake and her daughter's sake.
Many of us don't expect to be thrust in the single mother role but it happens and what do you do about it if it happens to you? Exactly what I did. Pick up the pieces and keep going.
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Wednesday, March 2, 2011
30 Days of Truths: Day 14
Day 14: A hero that has let you down
This may just be the shortest "truth" yet. I really don't have any heroes that have let me down. In fact I don't exactly regard anyone as my hero. There's people that I look up to or admire but don't consider anyone my hero. So, since I have no hero I have none that would let me down!
Sorry that is so short. Maybe the next one will be more interesting.
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30 Days of Truths
Day 01 → Something you hate about yourself.
Day 02 → Something you love about yourself.
Day 03 → Something you have to forgive yourself for.
Day 04 → Something you have to forgive someone for.
Day 05 → Something you hope to do in your life.
Day 06 → Something you hope you never have to do.
Day 07 → Someone who has made your life worth living for.
Day 08 → Someone who made your life hell, or treated you like shit.
Day 09 → Someone you didn’t want to let go, but just drifted.
Day 10 → Someone you need to let go, or wish you didn’t know.
Day 11 → Something people seem to compliment you the most on.
Day 12 → Something you never get compliments on.
Day 13 → A band or artist that has gotten you through some tough ass days. (write a letter.)
Day 14 → A hero that has let you down. (letter)
Day 15 → Something or someone you couldn’t live without, because you’ve tried living without it.
Day 16 → Someone or something you definitely could live without.
Day 17 → A book you’ve read that changed your views on something.
Day 18 → Your views on gay marriage.
Day 19 → What do you think of religion? Or what do you think of politics?
Day 20 → Your views on drugs and alcohol.
Day 21 → (scenario) Your best friend is in a car accident and you two got into a fight an hour before. What do you do?
Day 22 → Something you wish you hadn’t done in your life.
Day 23 → Something you wish you had done in your life.
Day 24 → Make a playlist to someone, and explain why you chose all the songs. (Just post the titles and artists and letter)
Day 25 → The reason you believe you’re still alive today.
Day 26 → Have you ever thought about giving up on life? If so, when and why?
Day 27 → What’s the best thing going for you right now?
Day 28 → What if you were pregnant or got someone pregnant, what would you do?
Day 29 → Something you hope to change about yourself. And why.
Day 30 → A letter to yourself, tell yourself EVERYTHING you love about yourself
This may just be the shortest "truth" yet. I really don't have any heroes that have let me down. In fact I don't exactly regard anyone as my hero. There's people that I look up to or admire but don't consider anyone my hero. So, since I have no hero I have none that would let me down!
Sorry that is so short. Maybe the next one will be more interesting.
_________________________________________________________
30 Days of Truths
Day 01 → Something you hate about yourself.
Day 02 → Something you love about yourself.
Day 03 → Something you have to forgive yourself for.
Day 04 → Something you have to forgive someone for.
Day 05 → Something you hope to do in your life.
Day 06 → Something you hope you never have to do.
Day 07 → Someone who has made your life worth living for.
Day 08 → Someone who made your life hell, or treated you like shit.
Day 09 → Someone you didn’t want to let go, but just drifted.
Day 10 → Someone you need to let go, or wish you didn’t know.
Day 11 → Something people seem to compliment you the most on.
Day 12 → Something you never get compliments on.
Day 13 → A band or artist that has gotten you through some tough ass days. (write a letter.)
Day 14 → A hero that has let you down. (letter)
Day 15 → Something or someone you couldn’t live without, because you’ve tried living without it.
Day 16 → Someone or something you definitely could live without.
Day 17 → A book you’ve read that changed your views on something.
Day 18 → Your views on gay marriage.
Day 19 → What do you think of religion? Or what do you think of politics?
Day 20 → Your views on drugs and alcohol.
Day 21 → (scenario) Your best friend is in a car accident and you two got into a fight an hour before. What do you do?
Day 22 → Something you wish you hadn’t done in your life.
Day 23 → Something you wish you had done in your life.
Day 24 → Make a playlist to someone, and explain why you chose all the songs. (Just post the titles and artists and letter)
Day 25 → The reason you believe you’re still alive today.
Day 26 → Have you ever thought about giving up on life? If so, when and why?
Day 27 → What’s the best thing going for you right now?
Day 28 → What if you were pregnant or got someone pregnant, what would you do?
Day 29 → Something you hope to change about yourself. And why.
Day 30 → A letter to yourself, tell yourself EVERYTHING you love about yourself
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
30 Days of Truth: Day 13
Day 13: A band or artist that has gotten you through some tough days.
Remember this? It's baaaack. I don't think I've done one of these posts since October. I'm going to start where I left off....day 13.
I can't really peg one band or artist that got me through my dark days. There's just so many! Music was my getaway. It was a way for me to forget or mourn, depending on my mood. Since it's been so long since I wrote about all this I'll explain.
When I mention my dark time I am referring to the first few years after my separation and divorce from V. This whole 30 Days of Truth kind of centers on that time of my life thus far.
Since I have to pick one artist/band here it is, Monica. Monica is one of many artists that got me through my dark days. In the eary 2000s (when this was all going on in my life) she came out with a CD (before the time of iPods), "After the Storm", which seems to chronicle my feelings from the beginning of my dark journey to the end.
The song "So Gone" seems like something I wrote when I decided to leave V. In the song Monica is in love with a man who is cheating. Throughout the song she is trying to figure out why. What does the other woman have that she doesn't? What does she do to make him love her? All the sleepless nights... the lyrics are exactly what I went through and I would sit and cry while this song played over and over and over. The song was about me.
Then there's "Knock Knock". Oh how I related to this song during the end of my dark journey. Here's the first verse, "It's funny how the tables turn, now it's you running after me." That tells it! The tables sure did turn but it was too late. I had my time. I grieved. It was over. My marriage was done. No going back, yet he tried.
"Knock Knock" is like the sequel to "So Gone". It talks about how the guy wants to come back and Monica isn't having it. She doesn't want him calling or knocking on her door. She's over him and when this happened in my life it was like a breath of fresh air. He wanted to come back. We already tried that. I knew it was over for me. No more hurt. I couldn't handle it. I was no longer in love with him. It was over.
I would drive down the street, this song blaring from my car speakers, singing at the top of my lungs. I didn't care how I looked to others. My dark days had ended.
_________________________________________________________
30 Days of Truths
Day 01 → Something you hate about yourself.
Day 02 → Something you love about yourself.
Day 03 → Something you have to forgive yourself for.
Day 04 → Something you have to forgive someone for.
Day 05 → Something you hope to do in your life.
Day 06 → Something you hope you never have to do.
Day 07 → Someone who has made your life worth living for.
Day 08 → Someone who made your life hell, or treated you like shit.
Day 09 → Someone you didn’t want to let go, but just drifted.
Day 10 → Someone you need to let go, or wish you didn’t know.
Day 11 → Something people seem to compliment you the most on.
Day 12 → Something you never get compliments on.
Day 13 → A band or artist that has gotten you through some tough ass days. (write a letter.)
Day 14 → A hero that has let you down. (letter)
Day 15 → Something or someone you couldn’t live without, because you’ve tried living without it.
Day 16 → Someone or something you definitely could live without.
Day 17 → A book you’ve read that changed your views on something.
Day 18 → Your views on gay marriage.
Day 19 → What do you think of religion? Or what do you think of politics?
Day 20 → Your views on drugs and alcohol.
Day 21 → (scenario) Your best friend is in a car accident and you two got into a fight an hour before. What do you do?
Day 22 → Something you wish you hadn’t done in your life.
Day 23 → Something you wish you had done in your life.
Day 24 → Make a playlist to someone, and explain why you chose all the songs. (Just post the titles and artists and letter)
Day 25 → The reason you believe you’re still alive today.
Day 26 → Have you ever thought about giving up on life? If so, when and why?
Day 27 → What’s the best thing going for you right now?
Day 28 → What if you were pregnant or got someone pregnant, what would you do?
Day 29 → Something you hope to change about yourself. And why.
Day 30 → A letter to yourself, tell yourself EVERYTHING you love about yourself
Remember this? It's baaaack. I don't think I've done one of these posts since October. I'm going to start where I left off....day 13.
I can't really peg one band or artist that got me through my dark days. There's just so many! Music was my getaway. It was a way for me to forget or mourn, depending on my mood. Since it's been so long since I wrote about all this I'll explain.
When I mention my dark time I am referring to the first few years after my separation and divorce from V. This whole 30 Days of Truth kind of centers on that time of my life thus far.
Since I have to pick one artist/band here it is, Monica. Monica is one of many artists that got me through my dark days. In the eary 2000s (when this was all going on in my life) she came out with a CD (before the time of iPods), "After the Storm", which seems to chronicle my feelings from the beginning of my dark journey to the end.
The song "So Gone" seems like something I wrote when I decided to leave V. In the song Monica is in love with a man who is cheating. Throughout the song she is trying to figure out why. What does the other woman have that she doesn't? What does she do to make him love her? All the sleepless nights... the lyrics are exactly what I went through and I would sit and cry while this song played over and over and over. The song was about me.
Then there's "Knock Knock". Oh how I related to this song during the end of my dark journey. Here's the first verse, "It's funny how the tables turn, now it's you running after me." That tells it! The tables sure did turn but it was too late. I had my time. I grieved. It was over. My marriage was done. No going back, yet he tried.
"Knock Knock" is like the sequel to "So Gone". It talks about how the guy wants to come back and Monica isn't having it. She doesn't want him calling or knocking on her door. She's over him and when this happened in my life it was like a breath of fresh air. He wanted to come back. We already tried that. I knew it was over for me. No more hurt. I couldn't handle it. I was no longer in love with him. It was over.
I would drive down the street, this song blaring from my car speakers, singing at the top of my lungs. I didn't care how I looked to others. My dark days had ended.
_________________________________________________________
30 Days of Truths
Day 01 → Something you hate about yourself.
Day 02 → Something you love about yourself.
Day 03 → Something you have to forgive yourself for.
Day 04 → Something you have to forgive someone for.
Day 05 → Something you hope to do in your life.
Day 06 → Something you hope you never have to do.
Day 07 → Someone who has made your life worth living for.
Day 08 → Someone who made your life hell, or treated you like shit.
Day 09 → Someone you didn’t want to let go, but just drifted.
Day 10 → Someone you need to let go, or wish you didn’t know.
Day 11 → Something people seem to compliment you the most on.
Day 12 → Something you never get compliments on.
Day 13 → A band or artist that has gotten you through some tough ass days. (write a letter.)
Day 14 → A hero that has let you down. (letter)
Day 15 → Something or someone you couldn’t live without, because you’ve tried living without it.
Day 16 → Someone or something you definitely could live without.
Day 17 → A book you’ve read that changed your views on something.
Day 18 → Your views on gay marriage.
Day 19 → What do you think of religion? Or what do you think of politics?
Day 20 → Your views on drugs and alcohol.
Day 21 → (scenario) Your best friend is in a car accident and you two got into a fight an hour before. What do you do?
Day 22 → Something you wish you hadn’t done in your life.
Day 23 → Something you wish you had done in your life.
Day 24 → Make a playlist to someone, and explain why you chose all the songs. (Just post the titles and artists and letter)
Day 25 → The reason you believe you’re still alive today.
Day 26 → Have you ever thought about giving up on life? If so, when and why?
Day 27 → What’s the best thing going for you right now?
Day 28 → What if you were pregnant or got someone pregnant, what would you do?
Day 29 → Something you hope to change about yourself. And why.
Day 30 → A letter to yourself, tell yourself EVERYTHING you love about yourself
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Saturday, February 12, 2011
Valentine Day Mailbox
Check out my other blog that I created specifically for my crafts, www.19eightyexpressions.blogspot.com
I made the cutest mailbox from a file I purchased from www.svgcuts.com. I blogged about it on the 19Eighty Expressions blog.
I made the cutest mailbox from a file I purchased from www.svgcuts.com. I blogged about it on the 19Eighty Expressions blog.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Started a new blog
I mentioned here that this blog started out as a life blog but since has been taken over by cards. I decided to make a separate blog specifically for my cards and other papercrafting awesomeness. You can find that blog at www.19eightyexpressions.blogspot.com Hope to see you there!
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Tweet Tweet
No this is not about Twitter!
I have been obsessed with stamps lately and especially wood ones. I just love how they stamp compared to the acrylic type. The bad thing is they are pretty expensive in comparison unless you hit the dollar bins at Michael's and JoAnn's which is exactly what I do.
Today's card is one I made using a dollar bin stamp I found at Michael's. I have started getting into coloring the images and this is actually my first attempt. I am so glad it came out well.
I have been obsessed with stamps lately and especially wood ones. I just love how they stamp compared to the acrylic type. The bad thing is they are pretty expensive in comparison unless you hit the dollar bins at Michael's and JoAnn's which is exactly what I do.
Today's card is one I made using a dollar bin stamp I found at Michael's. I have started getting into coloring the images and this is actually my first attempt. I am so glad it came out well.
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| 4 layers |
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| The branch & bird were stamped. The inside of the branch was colored with colored pencil. |
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| Tied a cute ribbon bow for more detail |
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| Sentiment is stamped and embossed |
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| Used two shades of pink ink to color the flowers which are also stamped |
Wow, it's been a busy few weeks.
I have been busy busy making new cards. I can't even remember which ones I posted here and which ones I haven't. Should I post them all at once or give each card it's due and make separate posts? I guess I'll just start with one card for now.
I was inspired by a picture in a magazine for this adorable patchwork card. I love the look of it. Let me tell you though, math is not my strong area (how I work in accounting, don't ask!) so it took me awhile to get the measurements for the patchwork rectangles right. After I figured out the dimensions the rest was easy. Pick pretty paper and embellishments.
I was inspired by a picture in a magazine for this adorable patchwork card. I love the look of it. Let me tell you though, math is not my strong area (how I work in accounting, don't ask!) so it took me awhile to get the measurements for the patchwork rectangles right. After I figured out the dimensions the rest was easy. Pick pretty paper and embellishments.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Hawaii Themed Birthday Card
I made this awesomely cute card for a friend of mine. I started out with one idea but it all changed once I started making the card.
I started out with making Hawaiian looking flowers like I made for my scrapbook page (pictures posted previously) and the hula girl. I put it all together and it just didn't look right. The hula girl needed an environment. She looked off just there with nothing but flowers next to her. I scrapped the idea of flowers and decided to create a scene for her.
The sky is actually the base of the card. For the ocean I dry embossed using my Cuttlebug and then inked it to give it two shades of blue rather than the on. On top of the ocean I place a shiny tan colored cardstock that I also embossed. I tried to ink it but the ink just slid right off. Note to self: glossy paper = no good with ink.
Next came the palm tree or is it a cocnut tree? The palm trees here don't grow coconuts so there's my confusion! Anyway, isn't it cute?! I embossed that using the Cuttlebug and a Sizzix embossing folder that I got for 60% off at Joann's. I inked it to make the textured look give it a more real look. The coconuts were actually scraps form another card that I had laying on the table. Score!
Little miss hula girl is precious. I cut her out and pieced her together giving her skirt and hair flower double layers. I drew in her face with pencil. Let me tell you...that is hula girl #2. Number 1 looked like the wicked witch of the west (that's the ugly witch right?). I had her all ready to go and then drew in her face....umm, she looked so horrible!! I had to take all the pieces off and redo her body/face. Oh, and her leg foot off! Hahaha. The one I ended up with is perfect. No funky face and she has two feet!
A lot of work went into this card but it was fun to make and I love the end result!
I started out with making Hawaiian looking flowers like I made for my scrapbook page (pictures posted previously) and the hula girl. I put it all together and it just didn't look right. The hula girl needed an environment. She looked off just there with nothing but flowers next to her. I scrapped the idea of flowers and decided to create a scene for her.
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| Hawaiian Themed card |
Next came the palm tree or is it a cocnut tree? The palm trees here don't grow coconuts so there's my confusion! Anyway, isn't it cute?! I embossed that using the Cuttlebug and a Sizzix embossing folder that I got for 60% off at Joann's. I inked it to make the textured look give it a more real look. The coconuts were actually scraps form another card that I had laying on the table. Score!
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| Coconut Tree |
Little miss hula girl is precious. I cut her out and pieced her together giving her skirt and hair flower double layers. I drew in her face with pencil. Let me tell you...that is hula girl #2. Number 1 looked like the wicked witch of the west (that's the ugly witch right?). I had her all ready to go and then drew in her face....umm, she looked so horrible!! I had to take all the pieces off and redo her body/face. Oh, and her leg foot off! Hahaha. The one I ended up with is perfect. No funky face and she has two feet!
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| Hula girl |
A lot of work went into this card but it was fun to make and I love the end result!
Friday, January 21, 2011
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| My Pinterest |
So what is Pinterest you ask? Well only one of the coolest sites ever! It's like a virtual pinboard. You know one of those things you hang on your wall and pin pieces of paper to. It's like that but much more modern. Before Pinterest I would just look things up on the internet and save them to my bookmarks. The pain in that is when I need to find something I have to go through practically every bookmark to find that one picture I saved because of course I have no clue what site I got it off.
With Pinterest there's no need to have a bagillion bookmarks anymore. You can "pin" a link or pictures/images to your "board". Remember all this is virtual so when you see something online you like you click your pin icon (which you get off Pinterest) and you are able to pin whatever image or site you would like to whatever board you that you have created. It pretty much downloads it to the site for you. For instance, I have pictures of cards I found online that I like and pinned them to my "Cards" board. Doing it this way I have everything in one place and a visual of each item without cluttering up my bookmarks or a folder on my computer. There will be a link under the image to the site you downloaded it from and you are able to add a description and tags.
As with many of the popular social networks you can follow people on Pinterest that way you see what they are pinning and you can repin something they have. It's really a cool site and perfect for those people that are forever looking at things online for inspiration. One catch though, you have to be invited in order to use the site. Either you can go to the site and request it or you can request an invite from a member. It takes a few days for an invite from the site but if you request from a member you are able to become a member as soon as they invite you via email.
Each member is given 5 invites. If you would like an invite email me, message me, or leave a comment with your email address. I still have 5 left.
www.pinterest.com
Monday, January 17, 2011
First card order = COMPLETE!
The title tells all! I am finally done. It was fun making the cards and it seems I may have gotten another order...a custom order this time. Yippee.
Today's card, the one that has completed my first card order, is so adorable! I had to get some inspiration for this one so I used the site www.pinterest.com and consulted my "board" for ideas. I'll get into detail about Pinterest in another post. OK, and here is the unveiling....dun dun dun!
Isn't it cute? It is simple yet beautiful and I probably used some of the paper I bought a Joann's yesterday. I actually made two cards, one for the order and one for etsy.
Oh did I mention I went to Michael's today. Oh gosh did I go crazy there too! I bought the stamp I used for this card out of the dollar bin. Awesome deal!
Today's card, the one that has completed my first card order, is so adorable! I had to get some inspiration for this one so I used the site www.pinterest.com and consulted my "board" for ideas. I'll get into detail about Pinterest in another post. OK, and here is the unveiling....dun dun dun!
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| Just Because sentiment card |
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| Adorned with a purple ribbon and pink flower |
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| I made a second card (this is the one that I made for the order). |
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| Heat embossed with sparkle powder |
Isn't it cute? It is simple yet beautiful and I probably used some of the paper I bought a Joann's yesterday. I actually made two cards, one for the order and one for etsy.
Oh did I mention I went to Michael's today. Oh gosh did I go crazy there too! I bought the stamp I used for this card out of the dollar bin. Awesome deal!
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Paper Galore!
Oh my goodness did I go crazy at Joann's today. I walked in there intent on raiding the open stock paper. It is on sale for 6 for $.96. This is the best sale I've seen on open stock paper anywhere so of course when I saw it in an ad a few weeks ago I was excited and impatient. They don't have their paper this cheap too often so now is the time to buy and buy I did.
I walked in a few minutes after they opened and walked straight to the paper. I was like a madwoman and by the time I had raided just two sections I was overloaded. I had to take a step back and reassess my game plan. How is it that I already had over 100 sheets of cardstock and I had only gone through two of the rows? I know how...madness! I put it all the paper back in their proper slots, left the store and went to my car for a moment to breathe. "OK, there's no way I can buy 4 of each color paper, that's insane" is pretty much what I told myself while standing at my car trying to figure out how to go about calmly buying paper.
After a few minutes I was ready to go back in. This time around I slowly grabbed one of each color cardstock and a few of some of the colors I already have plans for. I went to the decorative paper next and did the same, well kind of. I grabbed two of some that I really liked. I counted the paper after I was done and had about 250 sheets. OH GOSH...still way too many! I went through each piece and put back some of the duplicates I had grabbed of the decorative paper and whittled down the amount of paper I had by a little but not much at all.
Next it was off to embossing powders and embossing folders. I found a jar of sparkle powder for $1.97 on clearance. Not too bad. I also bought two sets of two embossing folders that were originally $15.99 but on clearance for $6!! Woohoo! Two are obviously Christmas folders but the other two can be used for any occasion. I still had a 50% off one item coupon so I bought a ribbon I can us for Valentine cards and my adventure was over. I made sure it was over. I had to. I knew the total was going to come out to way more than I had planned on spending. Oops!
I apologized as I walked to the cash register. The nice customer I was, I set up the paper for the cashier so all the barcodes were on the same side as she was scanning. She chatted with me as she rang up my massive amount of paper and we joked about how long the receipt was. What if I needed to return something?! Hahaha. The damage wasn't too bad but still a nice chunk of change. But guess what? I have plenty of paper to last me forever! Now all I need is more storage!
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| The longest receipt ever |
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Get Well card
I have two more cards left to make for my first order! Yay! Tomorrow Joann's is having their 6/$.96 sale on open stock paper. I am so excited for that. I have to stock up on a ton of paper so I can recreate some of the cards I've already made.
Here is today's card. "Get Well".
I used my usual techniques on this card: inking, dry embossing, and powder embossing. This card is similar to the one I sent to my grandparents but I loved the color combo so much that I had to make another using the same paper. There are some differences to this one.
Well, I'm off. It's date night with the hubby!
Here is today's card. "Get Well".
I used my usual techniques on this card: inking, dry embossing, and powder embossing. This card is similar to the one I sent to my grandparents but I loved the color combo so much that I had to make another using the same paper. There are some differences to this one.
Well, I'm off. It's date night with the hubby!
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