Back to school, a birthday and a challenge.

This first week back from vacation has been hectic to say the least.  The kids started school on Monday, so we've had to get back into that routine, and I'm trying to get caught up with all my emails and business responsibilities.  Admittedly, I thrive in chaos, so it's almost refreshing (is that odd?).

My oldest, Molly, is starting 6th grade.  That's Junior High, folks!  I'm in complete denial because it only seems like yesterday that I held her in my arms for the first time.  She's growing up to be such an independent, funny, warm, loving young lady.  Stubborn too!  She only let me take a few pictures of her, but I had to stop before the bus got there.  She's also made it clear that she'd rather I not meet her at the bus stop in the afternoons.  She believes she old enough to walk home by herself.  What she doesn't understand is that I only have one Molly, and I'm not ready to take any chances or let go, so we've compromised...I can wait for her by the mailbox.

My two youngest, Madison and Mackenzie, are also growing up too quickly.  Where does the time go?

Here they are waiting for the bus with their cousins, Kade and Kolby.  They are all very close, and it makes me so proud to see how much they look out for one another.

My baby is going into Kindergarten this year.  I am going to miss having her with me during the days.  We've grown so close, and I've cherished every single minute of these past 5 years with her.  I only wish I could have stayed home with my two oldest as well, but back in those days, I had to work.

So, now it's just Scooter and I for 6 glorious hours of silence every day.  Do you want to take bets on how long it is before I miss them all so much?



I've managed find the time to create a few cards with my 'empty' days (lol).  I made this one for my Dad.

Materials used:  card stock measuring 5"x6.5", 7Gypsies paper, DCWV paper, printed vintage image, Tim Holtz Distress Ink in Tea Dye, crinkle seam binding, vintage buttons, bakers twine, stamped sentiment, and machine stitching.

We celebrated his birthday this past Sunday.  The image didn't exactly remind me of Dad, but it did remind me of the feeling I get when I think of him...comfortable, perfect, and laid back.

I also made another birthday card for The Shabby Tea Room challenge.  They wanted a card inspired by your birthstone.

I'm a July baby, so my birthstone is Ruby...which just so happens to be one of my favorite colors.

I used burlap for the flower.  I found a bunch of large coffee bags for a ridiculously low price, so I went ahead and cut one up.  I honestly had a bit of a hard time doing it though.

Materials used:  card stock measuring 5"x6.5", Daisy D's paper, vintage burlap, vintage button, bakers twine, Tim Holtz Distress Ink in Tea Dye, playing card, Maya Road journaling tag, generic adhesive gems, satin ribbon, and Fiskars Script Font clear stamps.

If you're looking for some inspiration, head on over to The Shabby Tea Room and revel in all the eye candy...maybe even participate in one of their challenges.  This week they're sponsored by Pink Persimmon.  You could win a $40.00 gift certificate to their shop.  Let me just say that their stamps are to die for!!

Thanks for stopping by!