{creating myself}

I'm proud

It's memorial day and I can't think of a post more important and appropriate than one thanking our soldiers and their families. With all of the hardships we've been facing these past few years (especially since 9/11), I've never been more proud to be an American.






THANK YOU.


+via

weekend update.

Ciao!

How is your holiday weekend going? Mine is great!

I finished my book (haven't seen the movie yet, but still really want to!), hung out with my friends both Friday & Saturday night, and spent a LOT of time in my studio.



Some hours were spent working on a submission for Hambly's design team, which I'm 90% definitely applying for.

A lot more time was spent working on stuff for a shop update, which will probably happen next weekend.  There are so many great new products, and I'm really excited to post them.

But I have to say that it's really challenging running an indie biz by yourself.

The planning and design implementation, the creating (obviously the part I really love), the advertising & marketing, the packing & shipping, the bookkeeping....


I should also say that it's probably 50% hard work and 50% fun. Or maybe 40% hard work, 60% fun. :)


fighting bad guys (aka corporate chain stores)


working on top secret projects!



Compliment your favorite indie artist today!
Or better yet, support them! shop handmade! :)

xo

g o a l s & such.

This weekend will be great.

In the way that three day weekends usually are.

Here are some goals.

• get caught up with housework (laundry & cleaning... it has to be done. only because I can't stand the mess anymore.)
• finish "the girl with the dragon tattoo"
• see the movie
• finish some custom orders & paintings for a PLC update next week
• have a PLC photo shoot with shelley
• send out some surprise packages
• cook a grand meal
• spend quality time with my friends
• order photos & make a mini
• create a submission for Hambly DT (maybe)
  
  
  I like sharing my goals, because it inspires & motivates me to read other's goals & dreams.
  
  Speaking of PLC, I still don't have a sewing machine. Everything I'm making is being handsewn... does anyone have a suggestion of a good, reliable, easy to use machine? I would appreciate that.
  
  
  
  
  What are your weekend goals?

Let's play pretend...

Welcome to my virtual Book Club.

This is where I share my most favorite reads with you, and hope that you'll do the same for me.


 
A Million Little Piece and My Friend Leonard by James Frey... both heartwrenching stories. 



Water for Elephants is a really fantastic story, told perfectly by Sara Gruen. 


 
Another really great story. 


 
Probably the best love story of all time. 



This is a really good story, and a very easy read. I loved it. 




Eat Pray Love... everyone knows this is my most favorite story in the whole world. It is the B E S T. Life changing.


For more of my favorite book reviews & recommendations, you can follow me on goodreads.





A book-lover's favorite print. :)

Vintage & Indie in Tallahassee, FL

As most of you know, I went to Florida State.

The best university in the world.

What you might not know is that Tallahassee has one of the greatest vintage/indie communities out there.  Unfortunately, when I lived there (2004-2007), I didn't know this.  But when I took my cousin Anjelica for her orientation, I ventured off to do some exploring.  Here are some photos I captured of the Tallahassee I missed out on...
















And here are some great indie resources if you're lucky enough to still live there.

Keep it Sassy Tallahassee
(a huge resource for all locally and independently owned businesses & shops)

Railroad Square
(an art park with trailers and shops full of indie art. also home to First Friday art walks and shows, and live music. There are wonderful vintage stores)

Lake Ella
(another location with independent art shows and businesses. plus, it's located on a gorgeous lake.)

There are many great vintage shops & a great coffee shop within walking distance from FSU, right behind the stadium on Railroad Avenue.

Guest Blogger: Katie Robertson

Hi Guys! I am Katie from Smileyeyes!!! I am super excited that Amy let me share this Summer Plate DIY with all of you!



Aren’t these darling????  They are so perfect for a fun Spring Picnic, a Summer BBQ, and they even make unique gifts or even cute wall art!  And the best part is, they are super easy to make!!!

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Katie, Thanks for finishing off my month long blog party! This project is SO fun and summery and I can't wait to try it! Those doily plates are my faaave! :) xo

First off, you will need to get some clear glass plates, 2 (or more) colors of spray paint, and some stickers or lace or stencils to create a pattern.



Step one: Clean the plates! The paint will not stick well if there are finger prints!

Step two: Decorate the back of the plates in stickers, lace or stencils in the pattern that you would like!  A large piece of lace can be draped over the entire back to make a consistent pattern all over.  Another option is to paint a design on the back.

Step three: Place the plate concave side down on a piece of cardboard.  Spray a thin layer of paint (the main color you want to show through) on the back of the plate.  Wait 5 minutes and spray another layer.  (note… it is better to spray thin layers multiple times so the paint doesn’t run)

Step four: Hold the plate up to the light to look for any missed or thin spots.  If needed, spray on one more layer of the original layer. Let dry.

Step five: After fully dried (about 5-10 minutes), peel off the stickers/lace/design to expose the clean glass.

Step six: Spray a thin layer of the second color over the back of the plate.  Wait 5 minutes and spray a second coat.  Let dry.

Then enjoy!



Let me know if you have any questions!



You can find me at smiley eyes! Please stop by and say hi! Have a wonderful week! -Katie

Studiooooo Fix.

You are cordially invited to come over and play.







ribbons & toys



some favorite embellishments



some buttons and schtuff



some unfinished and (secret) finished paintings



etsy station... fabrics, felts, scrapbook kits, and shipping materials



i'm not a fan of straight edges....


click here to see more :)
and rsvp soon!

Polaroid Rescue Mission.

We already know about my obsession with polaroids, right?


*Sigh*
If only the film didn't cost the price of a kidney.

Makes me sad.
Luckily, the instax film is a little less expensive, super cute sized, and totally worth it.

Here's some more of what I've done with it.

I couldn't wait...

It's late. and dark.

I'm tired.

I have to work early in the A.M.

But I couldn't wait to share this sneak peek of my new studio...

It's not completely finished... the table on the right will be my "business station", with all of my Etsy paperwork... orders & invoices, mailing products, my printer, etc.

And the main table (I've never had a table this big!) is for ... what else... ART!

Especially scrapbooking & painting. Because I plan on doing a LOT of that this summer.

There's some other things I would like to add as well, especially this goal board idea that Elsie posted about.

I'll share much more this week... stay tuned!

xo, A

Guest Blogger: Ashley Watts

Hi guys! It's Ashley from Almost Exactly!




As always, first of all I want to thank Amy for letting me guest blog! I'm really honored!


Okay, so I got to wondering exactly what I could post for you guys this time...and as I was thinking I just so happened to smell someone barbecuing outside (yum-o, right?). With warmer months ahead of us, I thought it would be a fun idea to show you how to make a cute springtime/summertime napkin rings! It's something fun and easy to do to spruce up your table either inside or out!


You will need:




-pair of scissors
-hot glue gun
-pretty ribbon
-a nice big button (that will pretty much cover the width of your ribbon)

**Make sure that you have enough ribbon and buttons to make however many napkin rings you need!**




The first thing I did was make my napkin (just your basic wrap-it-around-the-silverware) and secured it with a rubberband (so I don't go completely crazy if it unrolls haha)




Next, I wrap the ribbon around the napkin to measure how much I will need to cut off




(I wanted a little extra for my napkin ring, so I hot glued some pom pom fringe to the back of the ribbon)




Now you just hot glue the two sides together (one side on top of the other)!
Oops, it looks like I cut my ribbon a little smaller than I measured...




I just fixed that by finding a piece of ribbon that was smaller in width than my original ribbon and glued it the the inside of both sides. Now it looks like this on the inside:







Just glue your button onto where the two ends overlap and you're finished and ready to slide onto your napkins!




And that's it! Pretty easy, right?
Of course, if you have any questions feel free to stop by my blog or send me an email and I'll be happy to help!

xoxo!
Ashley

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These are the cutest napkin rings ever! And I love your nail polish! Thank you so much :)
xo, Amy

Guest Blogger: Jessica Fulkerson O'Brien

guest blogging today by jessica fulkerson o’brien of “under construction”

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you know the phrases, “fake it ‘til you make it” or “dress not for the job you have, but for the job you want”? they recommend projecting an image of yourself beyond your current means, as a way to will that act into reality.

by acting or dressing a certain way, you almost change the reality of your situation. if you dress like a successful business woman, a trendy fashionista or a polished, pulled together mom – people will see you that way and treat you as such. is it that simple? no, of course not. but i truly believe finding and owning your own personal style can be transformative.

ask yourself… who are you? who do you want to become? what do you want people to think about you when they see you? is what you’re wearing now, reflecting who you are striving to be? dressing the part of your “dream you” instantly makes that dream become real, if even just in this very small way.

i’ll walk you through three ways to define and love your own personal style:

---------------

1) pick your personal style words:
having a set of words helps you define your style and keeps you on track when shopping or assembling outfits. if you decide you want to be edgy, modern and bold, you may talk yourself down from reaching for ruffled, floral-print skirts, or visa versa.

they can be any words you like, but here are some to get you thinking: classic ▪ chic ▪ edgy ▪ modern ▪ trendy ▪ hip ▪ sexy ▪ powerful ▪ bold ▪ artsy ▪ unique ▪ quirky ▪ fun ▪ lively ▪ polished ▪ laidback ▪ downtown ▪ uptown ▪ cultured ▪ fearless ▪ preppy ▪ funky ▪ sweet ▪ elegant ▪ young ▪ ethnic ▪ beachy ▪ vintage ▪ sleek ▪ romantic  ▪ relaxed ▪ fabulous ▪ glitzy ▪ tailored ▪ comfortable ▪ bohemian ▪ relaxed ▪ sophisticated ▪ rough ▪ intelligent ▪

• pick your words.
• pick ones of not just who you are, but who you want to be.
• change them as your life changes.

2) see beyond the garment:
when shopping, either for new clothes or within your own closet, don’t let the original style of garment limit you. you have the power to style pieces to fit your personal style words. here’s an example of 2 pieces, done 3 totally different ways:




here, a button-down top and army green shorts simultaneously work for three styles that could be defined as: a. preppy, classic, refined; b. well-traveled, casual, beachy; and c. edgy, bold, downtown.

• don’t think you have to wear an item as intended.
• layer under, layer over and accessorize, to make a piece fit you.
• be empowered to shop any type of store. it’s the garment that matters, not the store’s overall style or ad campaign.

3) set the tone each season:
one of the best ways to keep your personal style goals in line as you transition through seasons is to create a goal “look” every few months. each season, i make a mood board on polyvore.com – a community website that allows you to pull images off the internet, then mix-and-match those in collage style templates.

my boards feature clothes i currently own paired with items i am shopping for, or even dream items (hello $1,105 purse)! do i end up buying or wearing half the stuff pictured? ha, I wish! what they do for me though is help me see new ways to wear old pieces and identify what gaps may be in my wardrobe. mostly, they’re fun and get me excited to get dressed. and we’re talking fashion here – isn’t that the point?!

• tear out magazine pages that inspire you.
• make a “shopping list” for the mall, just as you would for the grocery store.
• play around with polyvore.

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Jess,
I've admired your timeless style (not to mention your scrapbooking skills!) for years and years. Thanks so much for sharing these great tips with us. This is better than any fashion mag! :)
love, Amy

Playing Dress*Up: Summer Dresses

This week, instead of sharing outfits I've worn, I'm sharing outfits I want to wear. A wish list, if you will.

My favorite thing about summer? Summer dresses. Light layers. Mini skirts. Booties.

Here are a few of my favorites. Click on the photos for more information or to purchase.

 



 
 
 
 
 


I'm also obsessed with this cardigan and this tank top and this tank top.

I'm so glad my birthday is in two weeks.... hint, hint!

;)

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This post is part of a weekly feature called "Playing Dress*Up". Each Friday, I post fashion-related ideas and photos.  Some topics include handmade clothes, accessories, shoes, body art, makeup, hair, home, and jewelry.  If there is anything you would like to see or you have an idea for a contributing post, please e-mail me at amylapi@gmail.com. See past archives of Playing Dress*Up here.

Welcome Back and Giveaway Winner!!!

Guest Blogger: Amy Schubert

welcome welcome!

My name is Amy T Schubert – and I blog over at Lemon and Raspberry.

Thanks so much to Amy for opening up this space for me to share my NEW FAVORITE project!
Seriously, I want to put ruffles on everything.
 
Today, I'm going to show you how to make Ruffled Invitations (I just mailed a bunch of these out for my sister-in-law's bridal shower).
 



Supplies needed:
paper (cardstock, printed with invitation text, cut to 8"x4")
fabric (9"x1.5" per invitation)
ribbon (1/2" wide, 5" long per invitation)
thread
sewing machine
scissors
stick pins
 
I made 30 invitations, but you can scale this up or down depending on how many you are making.
 
(also, I’m not much of a seamstress. As in, I can’t even thread a sewing machine by myself. So if I can do this YOU can do this!)




We'll be making the ruffles first, and then sewing them to the paper with the ribbon.
 
On each strip of fabric, you need to sew 2 rows of very long stitches (probably the longest setting on your machine). Sew these stitches close to one edge, so the fabric ruffles only on one side.



 
Once those are sewn, you should have 4 threads hanging off of each end.

Choose one end, pick out the top 2 threads from just that end of the fabric, and pull gently.



 
This should cause the fabric to gather and ruffle.




You'll need to eyeball this part. Decide exactly how tight you want the ruffles and pull more of the thread for more ruffley.

I went with a looser ruffle which I found easier to work with for this project, and easier to sew on straight.

Once you have your ruffle, the fabric should be long enough to lay across the narrower part of the paper. Your ribbon piece should be about the same length.




Using your straight pins, pin the ribbon on top of the ruffle on top of the paper.

Your ribbon should be wide enough to cover the stitches on the fabric so it looks like just a ruffle coming out of the ribbon.

I used the ribbon as the straight margin against my text, with the ribbon coming off the right side. The edges of both the fabric and ribbon are folded over the paper and pinned in place (to give a cleaner look)

When pinning, I found it easiest to pin at each end and at the 1/3rd and 2/3rds of the length.




Now it’s time to sew it into place!

I left the pins in as long as possible and sewed very slowly. I still didn’t get it perfectly straight, but you’re probably a better sewer than I!

You will be sewing 2 lines down each – 1 on either edge of the ribbon.

It’s easiest to sew the side closest to the visible fabric FIRST because that will hold it all in place better for you to sew the other side down.




Once you’ve sewn down the length of the ribbon on each end you are all set!

Just cut off the loose threads and mail!




*Some hints:
the most time-consuming part is cutting all the pieces to the right size. If you get all the little pieces ready first (paper, fabric, riboon) you can fly through the sewing lickety-split.
since these are about half the size of standard letter paper, it’s really easy to find envelopes that fit
for a more ruffly ruffle start with a longer strip of fabric.

Thanks for stopping by! Can’t wait to see your take on this project!

Amy T Schubert blogs about arts, crafts, inspiration and photography at Lemon and Raspberry. She is a photographer, scrapbooker, writer, crocheter and amateur seamstress. Really, it’s just fun to play with the arts and crafts. Please check out Lemon and Raspberry’s most recent free ebook offering - Better Photography in 3 steps.

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Amy,
These are simply GORGEOUS! I can't wait to try this technique!
Thank you so much!
love, Amy

Guest Blogger: Sarah

Hi,
I am Sarah from Glue and Paint.

I am so happy that I can share one of my favorite project from the last few weeks with you.


I am going to show you how to make your own spring/summer/fall/winter fashion minibook.



All you need is a fashion magazine or a fashion catalog, tape, a scissor, a nail and wool & a pen




First you need to choose which pages will be your front- and back-page (I chose thicker ones).
Than you have to fold up a part of the page and tack them



or if you use a doublepage, you can also tack the side



Then stick them together with tape



Afterwards you have to trim the pages you want to use to the same size as your frontpage



Glue them into the book (let the edges overlap, so that you can glue them properly)



Afterward, you can sew the whole book together.




Now you only have to add your title, other sayings and cool text and pics of fashion trends you like.

Hope you had fun!!!

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Sarah, This book is SO gorgeous! I can't wait to make one just like it! Thanks for taking the time to share it with us. :)
love, Amy

Guest Blogger: Jon Waller

Album covers used to serve as the front lines for selling music.

Now, there is a cliche about album art no longer being important, what with the itunes, torrents, and so forth.

Consider this a tribute to not only great art work, but covers that truly express the music on the record. I present to you a list of some of my favorite vinyl records in my collection, all of which feature cover art that poetically matches with the sounds within.

In no particular order...




Grandaddy- The Sophtware Slump

A simple premiss, photoshop some old keypad letters against an expansive natural landscape. The letters obscure the beauty of the picture, you kind of wish they weren’t there. It looks awkward. This is the feeling expressed throughout the entire record. Acoustic instruments are littered with casino sounding synths while Jason Lytle sings about longing for the simplicity and naturalness of home. The modern world makes him feel awkward.





My Bloody Valentine- Loveless

Over-exposed, effects laden wall of guitar...check. It may be overwhelming at first, but can be beautiful once you adjust.





Belle and Sebastian- If You’re Feeling Sinister

This picture does well to express the feeling one gets listening to this amazing record. It’s thoughtful without being detached from emotion. It’s literary. If J.D. Salinger made music, this is what it would sound like. This record happens to have the best bookends. It starts with “The Stars of Track and Field” and ends with “Judy and the Dream of Horses.” Both start with a lone acoustic guitar and end with full orchestration. Both manage to truthfully speak of the complexities of admiration.






Emperor X- Dirt Dealership

A 7’’ by the Jacksonville/ Gainesville/ New York (or where ever he now lives) based Chad Matheny is the ultimate example of do it yourself, gonzo music. Chad plays all of the instruments and sings on multiple layered tracks to produce a “i made this in my bedroom sound” that feels intimate and informal. Obviously, the vinyl had to pressed in a factory, but the album sleeve and cover art was individually made by hand. By using what appears to be sponge stamps, he made it so that every album cover was unique. The one I own is a different form of Pangea than the one you see.





Neutral Milk Hotel- In the Aeroplane Over the Sea

I lied before about the order, cause this is my favorite of the bunch. I had to include the insert with the cover. The art says it all, an album full of metaphorical images. I can’t do justice for this record. Just google it to find out how great it is.

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Jon Waller writes for the very unpretentious music blog Jungle Rot and fronts the south florida band starmaker.


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hi Jon,
Thank you so much for sharing these amazing album covers with us, and for tying together my two favorite things... art and music! :)
love, Amy

Guest Blogger: Ali Wood

Hi there!

My name’s Alison – but you can call me Ali! I “met” Amy a few years back via the internet – and we’ve become blogging friends. I’ve got a blog called Shades of Grey<link: http://creativali.blogspot.com>  where I share my scrapbooking and craft projects, inspiration, fitness goals, random snippets of information about my life and much more!

I’ve just moved house... to a house with only 1 cupboard in the entire place! So today I’m sharing some tips, information and ideas about moving/packing and downsizing your scrapbooking/craft area....

When I packed up my scrapbooking room, I went having this (an overcrowded bookshelf, which had also started taking up my wardrobe space):

To this – a much cleaner, more streamlined organisational approach:

I was lucky to be only moving about 5 minutes away. So I was able to use the storage my craft supplies were in (baskets, media boxes etc), and just loaded them into my car.

 For other items, I used  a big plastic storage tub. I recommend these as they’re sturdier than packing boxes, and your supplies won’t be damaged:

Ok.... so now onto the tips and ‘arranging’ of your supplies....

Tip #1 – LOVE adjustable shelving.

When choosing your bookshelf, or storage option – look for something with adjustable shelving – this allows you to have countless options when it comes to box sizes and storage options. 

Tip #2 - Cheap doesn’t equal nasty!

When I moved I made a trip to Ikea and bought new media boxes (the black ones below) to store my photos. The ones I got are DVD boxes and fit packets of photos easily! Ikea and other chain stores like target are great for picking up bargain storage options. Think outside the square – kitchen jars are great for storing button and trim!

Tip #3 - Don’t have cupboards? Don’t stress!

If you don’t have cupboards, pick up some large storage boxes like I did to store chipboard albums, envelopes and cards, paint and larger items like alpha stickers etc! I stacked them next to my desk with the heaviest box on the bottom, and my most used box (alpha stickers) on the top!

Tip #4 - Store products according to their use and volume

When choosing storage for your craft/scrapbooking embellishments it’s important to choose something that suits you. Have a think about what embellishments you use often, and how you may group them. I have the majority (if not all) of my ‘bits and pieces’ stored in this ikea box. I have a draw for chipboard, one for mini alphas and things, one for journal spots and cards, one for tags... you get the picture....

I also have a plastic tray with a lid that holds things like eyelets, some buttons , feathers and other trinkets.

Tip #5 - Don’t be afraid to repurpose ‘used’ storage options.

For my small amount of embossing products (which I’ve just started accumulating), I already had a small red embossed box (that was originally brought from a $2 shop – from the gift section) – so I re-purposed this (which originally housed a small selection of tools and a Xyron sticker machine).

Tip #6 – Open storage equals easy access!

You know those products you reach for often, or need ‘hand space’ to find something? Use open storage like baskets, open shelves, vases, glasses and buckets! I use three baskets (again from Ikea) to store my ribbon, tools (punches etc), and another to store buttons (stored in ziplock plastic bags). They’re easy to access and look great!! J

Tip #7 – Folders and labels are your friends!

I’m lucky enough to work for a scrapbooking company (Kaisercraft – www.kaisercraft.net), and they have these amazing folders and re-sealable zippered storage pockets that store my clear stamps perfectly!! I also try and label my boxes, for example I keep my ink and glitter in one box and my ‘bling’ (rhinestones) and brads in another....

Tip #8 – Display those loved items rather than hiding them away!

My layouts that aren’t yet put into albums are stored in this 12x12 flocked box. Before I hid it away in the bottom of a cupboard, but when I moved I noticed it matched my Diana camera and typewriter perfectly. So I pulled my typewriter out of it’s case, and put it on top of the box to create a cute little display in the corner of my scrap room.

Another idea I have is to buy a couple of 12x12 frames to hang in my room also to store layouts on a rotating basis too.

Tip #9 – Colour coordinate!

Well to some degree. You don’t have to, but I find it unifies my room – I went for a white/black theme with splashes of red, and small amounts of woodgrain.

Under my desk you’ll see some cords, I’ve tried to hide them with my printer which has a placemat on it (also red)....

Last, but not least, make your own, or buy some artwork to liven up your area!!

Happy organising! xx

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Thanks for the awesome post, Ali! My favorite part is my print hanging above your desk. :)
ENjoy your new home!

xo, Amy

Guest Blogger: Meg Barker

Hi everyone!

I am miss Amy's guest blogger-Meg Barker.
This is so fun to be a part of Amy's blog while she is away on a needed get away!

I am a stay @ home mom, a artist, a chocoholic, an accessory lover, a scrapbooker, a picture taker, a thrift store junkie, a outdoor lover, a wife and a bit of a gypsie (so my husband says). 

You can find me @ ambarker.blogspot.com, plumaccessories.etsy.com and scrapjacked.blogspot.com.
pLum accessories opened @ etsy.com last summer when i was home on maternity leave and finding lots of time searching and buying on etsy.  That is when i was inspired to use my ideas to start making my own headbands, bracelets and other hair accessories.  :)  it has been such an adventure and
i would love for you to come check it out!  

ART-it is what i love!  
that is why i fell in love with Amy's blog and style!
art is what i find in all junk @ the flea market, pictures, the thrift store or a garage sale or even ads in my favorite magazines.
lately i have been loving decorated t's and tanks!  if you have not seen the jcrew embellished tee's--they are a must!  well being 28 weeks pregnant-jcrew tee's are not exactly fitting they way they maybe should.  
so i have decided to try some DIY. 

well truthfully it has not exactly gone as planned so far.  the first shirt i did was sewn from the back to the front (a one time wear) but cute enough for a picture or two!  and seem ripping is not an easy job either!
then i went to a tank--so much easier to do. not as cute but more are in my plans!

check these two posts out for some great ideas.
elizabeth
tea rose

now get your sew on and do not forget to post what you have made or if you have some great blog posts with some great ideas!!!  i need some inspiration!  i will post some more @ my blog too when i finally get the hang out it!!!  
happy crafting everyone.
find inspiration everywhere!

xoxoxo
hugs
meg










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I am so in love with your etsy shop!

These are some of my favorite pieces...





Thanks Meg!

love, Amy

Guest Blogger: Shaina Longstreet

There are 52 weeks in a year... and my 2010 is full of self-portraits and poetry.  

Hi there, my name is Shaina and you can usually find me over at my blog Serendipity.  I’ve been blogging since 2005 and been a scrapbooker since before i can remember.  I love all things paper, typographic, and caffeinated!

But this year, I wanted to take on a different sort of challenge.  This year I decided to do a 52 weeks project.  This project was going to be about growing as a photographer and stepping back to a place of constant poetry.  It has turned into just that.  The pull of both creative sides of me have merged together to form these words and images.  I am 18 weeks into my 52 weeks, and am so proud to share this project with you.  

So I would have a place to collect all of these words and images, I started a new blog just for this.  You can find it here. 

Here are some of my favorite images and poems for you to enjoy.




happiness gets blurry sometimes
so i stop
take stock
and smile
for the gift of a scarf
the touch of warmth in the sun
and the life i hold in my hands.
happiness gets blurry sometimes
so i spin
and revel in my femininity
knowing this life is mine to enjoy.




there is a faraway place…


its touch is as a frostbitten dream.


within it


i see the tips of tulips,


blue with ice

a memory of a forgotten spring.


calm, serene, undisturbed


like the quiet under the water.


you were there with me once


and the touch of your hand felt like fire


against my cool skin


i have never forgotten...


in this perfectly imperfect world


there are only dreams.




i will remember today

years from now

when the mists of the unknown

become the clear skies of tomorrow

i am stronger than yesterday

more alive in some way

to break down to nothing but
salt-water stains

and start over again...

to renew the spirit within.


It is my hope to inspire others to take some time out of each day, or week, or month to capture life right now.  These images will be treasures for your future, will help you remember where you’ve come from and the lessons you learned along the way.  I’m not even half-way it at this point, and have already grown so much. 

52 weeks.  It’s a journey of self-discovery through portraiture and poetry.  Thanks for letting me share with you!  And please, pop in with a comment or even just a hello.  :D
<3 shaina

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Dear Shaina,
You are an amazing photographer and poet, as well as scrapbooker! :)
Thank you so much for sharing.
love, Amy

Guest Blogger: Elaine Read

Hello all! Elaine here! It’s magical to be guest blogging today on the lovely Amy’s blog! <333 I hope I can inspire something perfect in the start of your summer!


Since summer is here, we’re all looking for a little “extra something” to kick start the season of inspiration. Having something nearby for constant idea storage is key!

The very best outlet for my constant urge for creativity, even on the go, is my drawing book. I have blogged about this before, but I thought guest blogging would be a perfect opportunity to share this awesome breakthrough again! I started keeping my drawing book in Elsie Flannigan’s very first online class, and it has really changed my life and my creative thinking.


Start by getting a sketchbook. It doesn’t have to be expensive or fancy, just something with pages that feel good to you and big enough to hold your explosion of thoughts. I personally use a Moleskine but you can really use whatever you like as long as it’s inspiring to you!

Then get to work! I view my drawing book as my own personal space where I can hash out whatever crazy ideas are in my brain. I don’t have to worry about what anyone thinks or if the idea will even work. I don’t have to worry about if I’ll even capitalize on the idea. The name of the game is to GET THOSE THOUGHTS AND IDEAS ON PAPER!

Many times, my pages are ridiculous. I love drawing cartoon animals for no reason. I sketch out patterns and project ideas. And I make lots and LOTS of lists. Some other topics of my drawings include:

*trying out different handwriting and letters

*documenting trends

*things I observe while sitting on a campus bench

*cute cartoons

*lists of ideas and themes for etsy updates

*notes to myself to remember

*wishlists



The sky is the limit! I find inspiration for these drawings EVERYWHERE! A great start is to go to Target and look at the greeting cards. They have lots of inspiring and simple designs as well as singular themes and characters. I find them to be eternally inspiring! Here’s a few more places I go for inspiration:

Janel

Girls are crying

KillTaupe

Elsie!



So become good friends with your drawing book this summer. Take it everywhere you go, make it your personal mission to fill those pages. Adopt a journal and get to work! Write, observe, draw, and create!

<3

E

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Hi E! Thank you so much for sharing the inspiration for your crazy art journaling skills with us! You blog is one of my very favorites for inspiration and creativity!
love, Amy

If You Ever See My Designs in Hallmark...

You can say you read it here first.

I know I've mentioned this before, but I tend to talk about very minuscule things in life and ignore the big picture.

It's partly because I am overwhelmed by telling big important stories and partly because to me...




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Anyway.  I mentioned that Blue Mountain Arts  contacted me, but I didn't mention that they picked up five of my designs for greeting cards.  Here is me heading off to send my final portoflio, along with the five designs they chose.





my life was changed



life was pretty sweet.



her sister was her best friend



her safe place



remember this day

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The designs are still in the market review process, so for now, they are still available in my shop (links under photos).  I also had to write five poems to go on the inside of the card!! I don't think I'm allowed to share those here.  These are five of my original designs, and so dear to my heart. :)


XO, a

Guest Blogger: Bekka Bess

Hi!  My name is Bekka.  I'm so excited to be guest blogging for Amy today!  I'm a big fan of her blog, so I'm really happy that she's letting me share share with you all today!

 

I live in the small town of Cynthiana, KY with my husband and our cat.  We've been here for about 5 1/2 years.  Last summer we bought a house, so it looks as though we'll be here for awhile.  This leads me to the topic of my post -- one of my goals for 2010 is to be more positive...I have this bad habit of dwelling on the negative.  I can easily make you a list of all the things I dislike about Cynthiana.  But instead, I decided to make a mini album that celebrates all the quirky fun things I appreciate about it. *

 

That's my nickname for Cynthiana.  It has a great ring to it, don't you think? 

 

 

 

Cynthiana claims to be the "cradle of Raggedy Ann"  Originally, I thought this meant that Raggedy Ann was created in Cynthina...surely that was no flaw in that logic.  What they actually mean is that Cynthiana is the birthplace of the father of the guy who create Raggedy Ann. But, we have a nice festival every year to celebrate...um...Raggedy Ann's grandfather (?)...so it's nice to live in a town that will look for any reason to throw a party.

 

 

I recently got hooked on The Walking Dead comic book series.  It deals with survivors of a zombie apocalypse, and is a very entertaining read.  It has to be, because I don't gravitate to comic books or zombies.  But what drew me to the series is that (1) the writer and the original illustrator are both from Cynthiana and (2) the beginning of the series is actually set in Cynthiana.  (Oh, and the TV series is scheduled to premier on AMC this fall!)

 

 

 

Last year, the town held it's first Art Walk.  There were local artist displays, on-site demonstrations, wine tasting, music...It was great to see all the hidden talent within our town

 

 

Speaking of the Art Walk, I, along with a few other friends, had the opportunity to enter a Post-It Note fashion show.  Because the majority of Post-It Notes are made in Cynthiana. If you ever have the opportunity to make an outfit from office supplies, I recommend trying it!   

 

 

 

Oh, and we have a great local pizza place.  :)

 

 

 

I've met lots of wonderful people since moving here. Oddly enough, the girl in the bottom right was actually a friend of mine from high school, who moved here not long after I did. 

 

 

 

The banner-making business in Cynthiana must be booming, thanks to the ever-changing banner in front of the courthouse.  I can't explain to you why this amuses me, but it does.  Last year I had a goal of taking a picture of each banner...that only lasted a couple of months.  Then the school year started back, and I hardly ever went throught that part of town.  But I still try to take pictures of it when I can remember to.

 

So there you have it.  This is an ongoing project.  I mean, I still haven't mentioned the over-abundance of stop signs, the bridge named after the guy who burned down roughly 1/3 of the town, the theater with ties to Chris O'Donnell... 

 

*Disclaimer.  In no way am I suggesting you vacation in my town.  Because, in all honesty, there's a good chance you would be bored out of your mind. But it's a great place when you have the time to get to know it. 

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Dear Bekka,
THank you so much for sharing your crazy scrapbooking skills with us! You have been a favorite of mine for so long! :)
love, Amy

Guest Blogger: Jenny Lor

Hi, I'm Jenny Lor from Just Sweet Love and I'm super excited to guest blog here today at Creating Myself. My post today will infuse some fashion, some accessories, some health and then some. Here goes!

Everybody needs:

... a cool leather jacket.

... a pair of leather tights.

... a little bit of fun :)

... a crazy a$$ ring.

... a nice pair of shades.

... to prevent osteoperosis.

... some inspiration.

... a feel good dress

... to take a break sometimes (more often than not)

Hope you are having a lovely week! xxo, jennystarlor

[All images found on weheartit.com]


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Thank you JLor! You are one of the loveliest, cutest, sweetest, & most fashionable people I've ever met! :)

love, Amy

En Route.

Today is the day that Nuni and I finally fly home to New York together.

She's been staying with me for almost three weeks.
It's been real.

Real funny.
Real tiring.
Real interesting.
Real learning experience.
Real comforting.
Real loving.

But it's time for a vacation.

Three weeks is a long time.







I am beyond excited to go home.




8 o'clock, Mom.

P.S.... Happy Mother's Day.

My Official Birthday Wish List :)

AKA the most enabling post of all time.

I'll be 24 in a few short weeks, and instead of wallowing in self-pity and researching different wrinkle prevention methods and gray hair coverage, I'm going to focus on my favorite part of my birthday.



+via




A few of my favorite stocking stuffers, pulled straight from my bookmarks:



banter banner



fancy flours



the happiness project



let it be by kara



the spaces in between


 
spring greetings dress
or anything else from shopruche.com
Everything is gorgeous! Pretty florals, lace, prints, all my favorite things. <3

pretty rug

and this one





happy tape! i like this one and this one.


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Soo cute, right?

I should totally implement a new tradition of birthday stockings...

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We can't always get what we want...

But if we try sometimes, we just must find...

we can pretend.


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And here are the bigger ticket items I dream about...



ATG gun with tape



a sewing machine...
(puh puh please... my little fingers are getting so tired!)



instax film (I'm almost out!)

curling iron

ash canvas classic Toms







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*le sigh*

Back to Good.

When did my list change from

"Things to Scrapbook About"

to

"Things to Blog About"

to

"Things to Tweet About"

?



I hate that my schedule has permitted me zero scrapbooking and art journaling time. I miss it so much! But Summer's coming.... and Summer is for crafting....

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This blog used to be a place for me to share the creative things that I make, and I just want to let you guys know that it still is. Look for a lot more art-related posts in the coming months!

And thanks for reading, even through some of the busiest months of my life. :)


love,




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Don't forget to comment on this morning's giveaway :)

I went to the mall today... and I bought you something!

Well, not ALL of you...

Just one lucky reader!

When I saw this shirt, all I could think of was, wow. my readers would love this. I just know it!


And I believe that 200 followers calls for a celebratory giveaway.

The shirt is a size large. It's soft, comfy, and states the obvious.








DEETS:
Leave a comment on this post for a chance to win.
All entries are welcome, even if it's your first time stopping by!
Tweet, blog, and facebook about the giveaway for additional entries. :)
I'll choose a winner next Tuesday.


love always, Amy


PS... this post will remain at the top of my blog... scroll down to see new posts!

A Teal & Yellow Heaven

This is kind of an ongoing (forever) project of mine...
a throw blanket.

Right now, it semi resembles a skinny scarf.

My cousin asked me what I was making, and I told her a blanket, and she said... "How is that going to become a blanket?!"

Hmph.


Anyway, I expect that it will take years, but it's something fun to work on when I'm sitting on a plane or waiting at the DMV.

Plus, it's my favorite color combo ever.  I also plan on throwing some gray and green in there.

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I'm just using a basic double crochet.
Pretty much because that's all I know how to do.

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and this kills me... look at this photo Michelle posted!




Soo funny, right?


And then I found this bracelet to match my scarf... actually the whole shop is really cute :)





I plan on wearing both while living in my new house.



+via


love, amy

Pimp Your Refrigerator.

I participated in Janel's craft swap this time around (yay!)

As excited as I am to receive a box full of crafty goodness (THIRTY different crafts from artsy friends all over the country!) I was also excited to share my craft.

I used the faux polas from the shop to create magnet frames for everyone! I added hard backing and a small magnet strip and Voila! Refrigerator Decor.












I hope no one is disappointed I spoiled the surprise... but now you can choose your favorite photo and cut it to about 4x4" and have it ready to be framed! :)


♥, amy