tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40614298059707971442024-02-20T13:19:01.409-06:00Scraps of creativity...A look into my adventures in life, crafts and nature.A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.comBlogger74125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-81045885008642504682013-01-26T09:00:00.000-06:002013-01-26T09:00:07.386-06:00My Zoo: Up to no good!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8lG9P8MQW0PqkyUQLH1PIP9o7Fa_ecTteG4yLcNIUHr_3k0MZOrUQscCunthx3GlaT5HSAbkjJ5flUe-akBLM769angKv6uL6vuY_UbjQUS7WM76qTDIoV7L1uOUHBKyN8Vk0tgVZdwA/s1600/019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8lG9P8MQW0PqkyUQLH1PIP9o7Fa_ecTteG4yLcNIUHr_3k0MZOrUQscCunthx3GlaT5HSAbkjJ5flUe-akBLM769angKv6uL6vuY_UbjQUS7WM76qTDIoV7L1uOUHBKyN8Vk0tgVZdwA/s640/019.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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These adorable faces greeted me earlier this week after a long day at work. What also awaited me was one of my little mermaid blankets with the stuffing pulled out all over the living room. Can you guess who the guilty one is? I have my suspisions but I guess I will never know which one actually started the fun!A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-57320951791096624282013-01-25T21:01:00.001-06:002013-01-25T21:01:43.502-06:00Majestic Theatre 2nd Annual Bridal Expo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I jumped at the chance to be a vendor at this years 2nd annual Bridal Expo held at the beautiful <a href="http://www.k3majestictheatre.com/" target="_blank">Majestic Theatre</a> in downtown Kankakee earlier this month. With the help of my husband and a couple of friends I was set up and ready in record time. The shows turn out was amazing and I had so much fun meeting other vendors and future brides as they looked over my custom handmade paper goods. This was my biggest show to date and I look forward to expanding to larger events in the future.<br /><br />One of the perks of attending bridal expos, future brides get the change to win raffled off goodies from participating vendors. My basket consisted of a custom handcrafted scrapbook shadowbox, a yummy bottle of Moscato and some Dove Chocolate bites.<br />
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As my first time at the Majestic I was blown away by the beauty of it as an event venue. Recently remodeled it is the perfect location for weddings. I loved the "town mall" area -where local businesses can rent a small store front. They were adorable and I look forward to visiting the shops soon. Who knows maybe Creative Scrapz will be there one day!A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-2624073356747120352013-01-09T22:34:00.000-06:002013-01-09T22:34:07.477-06:00ATHM: Little Monsters :)ATHM-All Things Hand Made: <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75865015@N07/8366827816/" title="monsters shadowbox by awilder2008, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8371/8366827816_cc61209012_z.jpg" width="595" height="640" alt="monsters shadowbox"></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75865015@N07/8366828036/" title="monsters page by awilder2008, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8476/8366828036_fdaa330bd8_z.jpg" width="636" height="640" alt="monsters page"></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75865015@N07/8365760113/" title="monsters detail by awilder2008, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8227/8365760113_849b2d3584_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="monsters detail"></a><br />
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I enjoy creating unique shadow boxes especially as gifts for showers. Here is a little monsters themed page I recently created for a friends baby shower to go with their nursery theme. Monster sticker die cuts, solid and patterned papers make this layout pop with color-cute and fun! It was a huge hit at the baby shower as well :)<br />
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A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-36559447665125309722013-01-06T22:11:00.002-06:002013-01-06T22:11:15.372-06:00Project Life-Week 1<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75865015@N07/8356829472/" title="week 1 final by awilder2008, on Flickr"><img alt="week 1 final" height="639" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8045/8356829472_5e1fbec762_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Off to a great start with this scrappy project. Completed week 1 (Jan 1-5) this evening. I really like how this new page came out from the photo collages to the hand written journaling. I am getting more comfortable playing around in photoshop-making photo collages so that I don't have to limit myself to just one photo for an event. This project will guarentee that I get some much needed scrappy time in at least once a week and for that I am grateful.<br />
<br />A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-88699291753782445472013-01-03T09:00:00.000-06:002013-01-03T15:36:59.929-06:00In the kitchen-Tilapia with quinoa and shredded brussel sprouts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Somthing I want to focus on in the new year is eating healthy and fresh foods on a regular basis, With busy schedules its easy to just grab a meal on the go and not think twice about what we put into our bodies. Here is a quick and yummy dinner idea I had the other night made right in my kitchen: <br />
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Broiled Lemon Tilapia with shredded brussel sprouts and a side of Organic Tri colored Quinoa.<br />
Serves 1 (easily adjusted for larger quantities)<br />
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<strong><u>Ingredients:</u></strong><br />
4oz Tilapia Filet<br />
2 Lemon slices<br />
1/4 tbs butter sliced<br />
Trader Joe's 21 seasoning salute-I love this stuff! so much flavor without all the salt<br />
Tin foil to make a foil packet<br />
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2 slices of Hormel uncured natural bacon-diced<br />
about 8 large (~109g) shredded brussel sprouts (I wash the sprouts, cut off the ends, remove loose leaves and chop)<br />
1 shallot diced (~20g)<br />
Black pepper to taste<br />
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1 cup uncooked rinsed Trader Joe's Organic Tri-colored Quinoa (makes 4 servings, each serving is roughly 150g cooked)<br />
Repunzel Vegan Vegetable Bouillon-1 cube<br />
2 cups water<br />
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<strong><u>Directions:</u></strong><br />
1. Preheat oven or convection oven to 400F<br />
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2. Thaw Tilapia in cold water<br />
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3. On medium-low heat fry up diced bacon slices to taste (I like them crispy), once bacon is almost done add the diced shallot to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add the shredded brussel sprouts to the pan and sautee for 15-20 minutes. I like to see them brown a little while cooking. Add black pepper to taste.<br />
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4. While brussel sprouts are cooking, in a small sauce pan bring the water, bouillon cube, and rinsed Quinoa to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and cover-heating for 10-15 minutes until water is evaporated and the quinoa has a transluscent color. After cooked remove from heat and fluff with a fork prior to serving.<br />
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5. Season thawed Tilapia with TJ 21 seasoning salute (I use about 1/4-1/2 tsp) on both sides. Put thin slices of butter on the foil, place the tilapia on top of the butter. Place 2 lemon slices on top and add the rest of the butter slices. Fold the foil over to make a foil packet-this will cook the fish and allow the lemon and butter to add flavor without making a mess. <br />
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6. Place the foil packet into the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until Tilapia is fully cooked-it should be flakey when done. Time may vary based on ovens and size of fillets. <br />
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For those counting calories this yummy dinner comes just under 450 calories!<br />
Enjoy!A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-83847919279765400182013-01-02T21:27:00.004-06:002013-01-02T21:31:57.703-06:00Project Life 2013-so it begins...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0AN2X06ZczE6NtFAnQu8e2Fo7i0R6tR5QgZJiTL9ZM4P6zDj6CAYpfohJXG-yv3HRJ3JpzWzQcn_089or_UM36MFx-IKO7D7j3i7xbcke9zsBWdocxKyH4K6NAhy3Q1FpyPe8YWAQp0M/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="601" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0AN2X06ZczE6NtFAnQu8e2Fo7i0R6tR5QgZJiTL9ZM4P6zDj6CAYpfohJXG-yv3HRJ3JpzWzQcn_089or_UM36MFx-IKO7D7j3i7xbcke9zsBWdocxKyH4K6NAhy3Q1FpyPe8YWAQp0M/s640/004.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Project Life 2013: Cover Page<br />
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Happy New Year!! Hoping everyone's 2013 is off to a great start. I am starting off my year in my favorite way-scrapbooking. Scrapbooking has always been a way for me to escape and just let my creativity flow. My way to tell a story and capture memories to share with others. I am always looking to learn new techniques/styles and don't like to limit myself. Last year I came across <a href="http://beckyhiggins.com/products/what-is-project-life.php" target="_blank">Project Life</a> and I loved the simplicity of it. I did not purchase the kits that are available for this-but there are some great ones out there as well as awesome freebies posted regularly! Instead I want to keep my own handcrafted element in the project. <br />
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With scrapbooking today there are so many different trends and fads constantly changing-its impossible to keep up!! This is why I can't wait to see what my results with project life will become by the end of this year-something more streamlined, focusing on the importance of photos and journaling. My goal is to sit down one day each week and complete my pages on time-updates on everyday life whether they be big or small. <br />
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I look forward to this project and will update weekly with photos on my progress. <br />
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Happy Scrapping!<br />
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<br />A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-55021004077640677452012-12-31T16:43:00.000-06:002012-12-31T16:43:07.713-06:00Good Bye 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My creative scrapz in review of 2012: various cards, invitations and scrapbooks created throughout 2012. I'm looking forward to more creations in the new year.<br />
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Other changes I'm hoping to implement in the new year is regular posts on here with new themes to keep me organized and motivated to post. Be on the look out for:<br /><br /><span style="color: purple;">In the kitchen</span>-my adventures with food and restaurant reviews<br />
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<span style="color: purple;">All things handmade</span>-various projects that I hope to work on throughout the year including paper crafts, crochet, jewelry and other crafts that I may explore<br />
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<span style="color: purple;">Wilder zoo</span>-updates on my lovable pets<br />
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<span style="color: purple;">Project Life</span>-weekly update on a new to me scrapbooking style I want to try out for 2013 to help me stay focused and complete an album by the end of the year. Inspired by <a href="http://beckyhiggins.com/products/what-is-project-life.php" target="_blank">Project life</a> started by Becky Higgins. <br />
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<span style="color: purple;">Ugly Paper Challenge</span>-Will return when I start this up again with scrapbook.com <br />
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I may add others as they come up through out the new year!<br />
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Wishing everyone a safe and festive New year!<br />
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A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-7417915157112880472012-12-29T16:03:00.001-06:002012-12-29T16:10:41.584-06:00Happy Holidays!<br />
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Started off the Christmas season with the annual Amica Christmas Party near Barrigton, IL with Pat and his parents. Its always a good time seeing the organs played. Instead of the regular concerts, this year the organ accompanied a couple of silent films-christmas themed of course. The night ended with food, drinks, and a ride on the indoor carousel.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVo_C9l9CFLi_xM1hYTSkl-2wIKmS9EG6ZASPfoZY2XDEdKPjHA040dxA9b7uw6-YmUJiYeE42hMDDhgnQQBa3TflEwDPTwKjbSsBDKeoYWP4OSIeOenakl30A34ogPb6oJifwGisXZ5Q/s1600/Wilder+christmas+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVo_C9l9CFLi_xM1hYTSkl-2wIKmS9EG6ZASPfoZY2XDEdKPjHA040dxA9b7uw6-YmUJiYeE42hMDDhgnQQBa3TflEwDPTwKjbSsBDKeoYWP4OSIeOenakl30A34ogPb6oJifwGisXZ5Q/s640/Wilder+christmas+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I've had mixed feelings for the holidays this year, honestly really not feeling them at all. Cut down my own christmas tree from a local farm-something I started last year and will do so again. I did make the best of it and hung out with friends downtown, hunting down mushroom ornaments to add to my tree in honor of my mom-one tradition I will continue well into the future. Christmas eve dinner was the first time I cooked a Polish traditional dinner by myself and it was delicious, and the Christmas Day dinner that followed was also enjoyed by all. The highlight of the season for me was hand crafting a christmas wreath for my mom-something I hope will become a new tradition for each passing holiday.<br />
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Of course the pups enjoyed thier Christmas Bones:<br />
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The Holidays were bitter sweet this year but I know surrounding myself with friends and family is what made them a happy experience that I hope will grow as the years go on. Maybe next year we will acutally get snow!!<br />
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Happy Holidays!<br />
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<br />A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-71437692631482756332012-11-04T09:30:00.000-06:002012-11-04T09:30:00.719-06:00Pumpkin Spice Donuts...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Uh0TdAASwPRRkSd7YhV-7QzGPi8fkH0KIWt8VFdxAPqlYoxIRMPZHYq-8h6h3IGAOqryF53RUUn2WSzq6CZ7ULFitl4C4q18Jxk7Km9BwUaTkYKeeRLorFUYfcKWGobggdTu5ArbAsk/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Uh0TdAASwPRRkSd7YhV-7QzGPi8fkH0KIWt8VFdxAPqlYoxIRMPZHYq-8h6h3IGAOqryF53RUUn2WSzq6CZ7ULFitl4C4q18Jxk7Km9BwUaTkYKeeRLorFUYfcKWGobggdTu5ArbAsk/s640/001.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbuGxucTjtTOWVnopypjKVbTi5AjL9OkpuGBNluhON9d_u9a2e8wWEj5IYanYO78XyIv01BxGkmKdMVORGW4ZuS_jIHOGB_9otzBu5K72inoGpM6GHwl2V7yD_xcNTf4GlkPHmtFMujI/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbuGxucTjtTOWVnopypjKVbTi5AjL9OkpuGBNluhON9d_u9a2e8wWEj5IYanYO78XyIv01BxGkmKdMVORGW4ZuS_jIHOGB_9otzBu5K72inoGpM6GHwl2V7yD_xcNTf4GlkPHmtFMujI/s640/002.JPG" width="640" /></a> I've been on a pumpkin kick lately-pumpkin pancakes, waffles, etc. I tried my hand at homemade pumpkin spice donuts using this <a href="http://cravingchronicles.com/2010/10/11/baked-pumpkin-spice-donut-holes/" target="_blank">recipe</a> I pinned from Pinterest. I didn't have any baking powder on hand so I used 1/2tsp of baking soda instead and all is yummy!A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-6952482216455450922012-11-03T15:47:00.002-05:002012-11-03T15:47:26.113-05:00Chipboard Geocaching album...(Part 1)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A couple of weeks ago, I got together with some friends and I worked on a geocaching chipboard album. Using some goodies I found at this summers scrapbooking expo in St. Charles-I decided to go with a fall/nature theme that complimented the photos. Exploring state parks in the fall with friends is always a great adventure guarenteed to provide beautiful sights.<br />
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I love scrapping with others-exchanging ideas and getting inspiration from eachother. This is still a work in progress and I will update with a future post when it is complete.A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-75315943732387908452012-11-01T18:21:00.001-05:002012-11-01T18:21:25.123-05:00New Traditions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Candles lit to honor my mother on All Saints Day...I look forward to lighting these candles again on saturday at the cemetary when I get a chance to visit her. A new to me tradition that I will always look forward to in years to come.A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-71008128915392032822012-10-31T20:01:00.000-05:002012-10-31T20:01:57.912-05:00Happy Halloween!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivu3jscMDbIWuP2tpAsNXGZ_wof42M3pbbd5JkfaB7rZX-EomltMfP-OWvFhR-I-_6fxre6xKGYjiKbz0UjBbV8cP1Ss0rufdOgYRTIK-AiyzWezLWAy4SymNhncN2JxV-N7naXBU6mv4/s1600/096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivu3jscMDbIWuP2tpAsNXGZ_wof42M3pbbd5JkfaB7rZX-EomltMfP-OWvFhR-I-_6fxre6xKGYjiKbz0UjBbV8cP1Ss0rufdOgYRTIK-AiyzWezLWAy4SymNhncN2JxV-N7naXBU6mv4/s640/096.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtTDNBMELmBtlffF463FNhktLx5DvWYiaAq6DmrlnO5gtXCNANy7q1f0vty0DF-wEjcmcquk6qyyymXPvD4oTXD8wohXTyADCdXVKFQnXBQxiF5dmKTIREtnwt4jh3DTS5uXDZg9fhjK0/s1600/099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtTDNBMELmBtlffF463FNhktLx5DvWYiaAq6DmrlnO5gtXCNANy7q1f0vty0DF-wEjcmcquk6qyyymXPvD4oTXD8wohXTyADCdXVKFQnXBQxiF5dmKTIREtnwt4jh3DTS5uXDZg9fhjK0/s640/099.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
Scrappy and Lady waiting with goodies for our lil' visitors this year :)<br /><br />
Its one of my favorite days of the year. Creepy decorations, scary ghouls around the corner. The cool crisp air and all the kids dress as their favorite characters going door to door saying "Trick or Treat" for some yummy candy. <br />
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Unlike most years, decorations were not hung around the house but I'm staying in the Halloween spirit just the same with some classic horror movies (my favorite genra): It, The Shining and others since this weekend.<br />
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Happy Halloween everyone!<br />
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A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-38593270801652179532012-10-16T15:26:00.000-05:002012-10-16T15:26:00.470-05:00Waiting for 2012 to be over...I am hoping to get back into the groove of regular blogging to help clear my mind. This year so far has defintily been a challenge and a struggle. I am thankful for my friends and family that have been by my side through all of the ups and many downs that 2012 has thrown in my path. I can honestly say you guys are the reason why I can be where I am today, stay strong (even if its a struggle) and live each day without regrets and look forward to the future.<br />
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A short recap of why I have been greatly absent on my page here and why I feel its best for me to carve out some time back on here for reflection.<br />
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Pats's motorcycle accident recovery/surgeries into this year have kept us busy but I am ecstatic to say that he is doing amazing-his attitude and view on life has greatly impacted me and how I look towards the future. He has been so strong through all of this, very determined to get better and move past this horrible event and get back to "normal". <br />
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Back in the middle of May my mother was diagnosed with renal failure, and spent many weeks in and out of the hospital. At the end of June she came to live with me so that she could start regular kidney dialysis. Things began to improve and I saw my mother once again enjoy life and nature around her--in the backyard and strawberry picking at a local farm. Things did not always remain great and she often had to be hospitalized. This took a toll on her as well as me, being her caregiver-it was difficult to watch my mother <span style="font-family: Calibri;">deteriorate</span> and be in constant pain. On September 25 my mother passed away in the hospital due to heart complications. May she rest in peace, it helps knowing that I was by her side (as difficult as that experience was) and that she is no longer in pain. The support from family and friends during this very difficult time has been my inspiration to stay strong and help me get through this. <br />
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Pat and I recently purchased our first rental unit and we are in the process of remodeling the apartments and getting them ready for future tenants. This has been a great undertaking that has kept him up late into the night mudding and painting walls. It has been a learning experience and a true test of my patience with all of the small details that go into remodeling run down apartments, but I look forward to the finished project.<br />
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My scrapping and crafting has taken a backseat for most of this year. I have been able to get out and scrap with friends and attend the big scrapbook expo in St. Charles. I look forward to organizing my scrappy room soon and get back into my crafts. I have a couple of new projects that I want to start first thing in January to help me to hopefully stay on track with my scrapbooking and memory keeping.<br />
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I'm not usually one to say I can't wait for something to be over, but with all of the chaos of 2012 I truely look forward to the end of this year and the fresh start of 2013. <br />
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A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-24218197354574599132012-06-01T15:03:00.001-05:002012-06-01T15:04:38.256-05:00Gone in a blink of an eye...What happened to May? it came and it went as quick as can be!!! So much has happened over the last month (some good, some not so good) I can barely keep up-hoping things start to slow down in June so that I can breathe. <br />
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Be on the lookout for a picture update for May coming soon :)A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-82369889619747150772012-04-23T22:38:00.000-05:002012-04-23T22:38:29.502-05:00Enchanted Forests...I've been a busy bee running around getting crafty projects organized and together. This past weekend I was able to complete a baby shower gift for a friend-a woodsy themed shadow box to match her nursery decor, along with other goodies for them to enjoy:<br />
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Here are more close ups of the LO/Shadow Box:<br />
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I used my Create-A-Critter Cricut Cartridge to make all the layered pieces. I have to say this is one of my most used and favorite cartridges to date. There are so many options and the animals are adorable!!
I hand stamped the "handsome little prince" title and added some green and white bakers twine to make it look like it was floating in the air between the sleeping owls.
Inking is another technique I enjoy using in my creations. Here I inked the grass blades, the fawn and the fox. I love the dimensions it creates.A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-66809529098086227642012-04-18T22:28:00.000-05:002012-04-23T22:29:04.180-05:00Watseka Wedding Expo<br />
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Above: My table display all lit up ready for the show.<br />Below: Close up of samples on display with my sample material book.<br />
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This past sunday I participated in my first wedding expo in Watseka, IL. Weeks leading up to April 15th I was busy organizing my sample cardstocks, pocketfold styles and past invitations and stationary I have created. I rumaged through stores looking for thrifty but neat display items to enhance my tables.
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Hours and hours of thought and preparation went into this event...thats part of me being a perfectionist showing! I did come across a few bumps and last minute alterations when my original Pegboard display was too large to transport in my Jeep. Luckily I had safety pins and was still able to use my drapery and lights!
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This was the first annual wedding expo hosted by a local wedding DJ company. A small show with a great selection of vendors each with thier own specialty from flowers, cake, jewelry, dresses, and photography-it truely was a one stop shop for the brides.
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<br />I had a great time meeting the various local vendors and sharing my crafty passions with the brides and their loved ones. I can't wait to do more expo's in my area and hopefully one day expand to do the larger ones as well.
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Going through this for the first time here is a list of suggestions for those looking to do their own show/expo as a vendor:
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1. Look over the contract and make sure you understand everything in it. These should be fairly simple to read and go over-don't be afraid to ask questions.
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2. Practice your display/table set-ups prior to the show. This helps you get organized and ensures that you will have a flawless display that will represent your quality of work ---presentation is everything!
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3. Get some rest and eat! It's easy to stay up the night before finalizing the little details but don't stress over it. It helps to have everything ready to go the night before. Make sure you get enough sleep so you are bubbly and alert the next day-no one likes a grumpy vendor! Eat breakfast before the show and bring along snacks and drinks to hold you through the show.
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4. Arrive on time for the set-up, usually 2-3hrs before the show starts. You may think you don't need this much time, but its better to be done setting up early and relaxed before the show than to be frazzled the last minute trying to put up your display. Mine took about 1.5hrs to set up from start to finish.
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<br />5. Always stand by your table/booth-don't greet potential customers sitting down. I was surprised to see many vendors sitting until the brides approched their booths. Standing up and greeting guests is a great way to show that you are ready to assist them.
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<br />6. Make sure you have a business name/sign on display. Business cards, brochures etc are also helpful to have on hand. Bring extra pens and contact forms with clipboard to make it easier for the customer to fill it out. Have contracts on hand in case anyone books at the show.
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7. Although its not always required, having a give-a-way at your booth is a great way to attract clients to the booth. I didn't do this at the show but will consider doing it on future ones. Maybe a gift card for your services, or something not related like Gift cards/basket to local coffee shop or restuarants.
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<br />Every show will be different, just be prepared to go with the flow.A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-89900559492560061082012-04-04T20:23:00.004-05:002012-04-04T20:27:30.844-05:00My 3 stooges<a title="058 by awilder2008, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75865015@N07/7046566589/"><img alt="058" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7044/7046566589_4f9267ca49_z.jpg" width="640" height="277" /></a><br />Ava, Scrappy, Lady<br /><br />Scrappy has joined us now for almost 2 weeks and adapting just fine to his new home. I think he is fitting right in with his new "sisters". They are inseparable and too adorable for words!A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-2313377647546319492012-03-31T10:53:00.005-05:002012-03-31T11:04:51.232-05:00Ugly Paper Challenge March LO-"Let's Celebrate"Just in the knick of time I finished my LO for the <a href="http://www.scrapbook.com/forums/showtopic.php?tid/1570969/">ugly paper challenge</a> I participate in every month.<br /><br />Once I recieved my late papers I knew they were perfect for Pat's birthday celebration. His birthday this year was a special one and everyone was happy that he was here to celebrate.<br /><br /><a title="Let's Celebrate by awilder2008, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75865015@N07/7032274781/"><img alt="Let's Celebrate" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7094/7032274781_55884d3757_z.jpg" width="640" height="633" /></a><br /><br />Good food at Lonestar surrounded by friends. The next day we went to Hollywood Blvd. and saw Safe House.A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-32195897964549236102012-03-30T10:12:00.000-05:002012-03-30T10:13:08.373-05:00Getting ready for my 1st Wedding Expo!I truly LOVE everything about weddings-love, families coming together, the planning, the details and how it all comes together in the end. Taking an idea and making it a reality is what fuels my creativity. After much thought and some persuasion from supportive friends and husband I finally decided to take the plunge and do my first local wedding expo (in Watseka, IL) showcasing my wedding invitations, stationary and scrapbooks. Application is filled out, payment ready and all mailed out to the event organizer.<br /><br />I couldn't be more excited to start this new chapter in my business endeavours. I have done well with word of mouth and craft shows. I am looking forward to see what happens with this new adventure and what path it will lead me down.<br /><br />In the mean time, I have about 2 weeks to get my display organized and ready for the big reveal. As well as making up some last minute touches to add to my 8'x8' booth space including a backdrop, table covers, banners and invitation displays.<br /><br />April 15th will come up quick, I have to be ready!! Be on the lookout for booth pictures and a follow up review blog of the event here :)A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-84723686744341651862012-03-24T11:14:00.004-05:002012-03-24T11:18:44.599-05:00Ugly Paper Challenge-MarchFinally recieved my March ugly papers today:<br /><br /><a title="March ugly paper challenge by awilder2008, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75865015@N07/6865144032/"></a><a title="March ugly paper challenge by awilder2008, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75865015@N07/6865144032/"><img alt="March ugly paper challenge" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7072/6865144032_a2559fc2a4_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a><br /><br />Looking forward to working on these-its perfect timing for my hubby's birthday (which is today!). Going out tonight and tomorrow to celebrate. I will have to make sure to get awesome pictures and work on a LO by the end of the month with these papers.A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-73275229590469392932012-03-20T20:55:00.000-05:002012-03-20T20:54:47.917-05:00Spring has sprung!<a title="first bloom by awilder2008, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75865015@N07/7001671351/"><img alt="first bloom" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7097/7001671351_9b901dcda3_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a><br />I couldn't be happier for the "Texas" like weather we have been having. A mild winter then straight to late spring early summer temps-this is unheard of for Illinois!<br /><br /><a title="geocaching 3 by awilder2008, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75865015@N07/6855536946/"><img alt="geocaching 3" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7089/6855536946_1ccfc5cef2_n.jpg" width="221" height="320" /></a> <a title="geocaching 1 by awilder2008, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75865015@N07/6855537264/"><img alt="geocaching 1" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7260/6855537264_8f85cccb7c_n.jpg" width="239" height="320" /></a><br />Enjoyed some geocaching and sun around the neighborhood this past weekend.<br /><br /><a title="Porkchop dinner by awilder2008, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75865015@N07/7001652645/"><img alt="Porkchop dinner" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7052/7001652645_9c04248bf9_z.jpg" width="640" height="621" /></a><br />Grilling outside is one of my favorite things to do-this was our dinner tonight: Grilled porkchops, green beans sauteed with bacon and baby yellow potato with sour cream and black pepper.<br /><p>Looking forward to more days like these :)</p>A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-2706962929477991982012-03-12T09:14:00.002-05:002012-03-12T09:17:16.758-05:00Scrappy InspirationI love trying new ideas out when it come to scrapbooking and I find that sketches are a great way to get inspired. Here is the latest sketch created by Bev Code for <a href="http://letsgetsketchy.blogspot.com/">Let's Get Sketchy</a>. <br /><br /><a title="sketch challenge 2 by awilder2008, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75865015@N07/6829977426/"><img height="320" alt="sketch challenge 2" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7195/6829977426_29d4516ff8.jpg" width="320" /></a><br /><br />I missed out on the 1st challenge but I hope to get to scrap something with this by friday.A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-83572403909403401382012-03-10T17:16:00.002-06:002012-03-10T17:18:20.470-06:00Taking a walk...<a title="Lady on her walk by awilder2008, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75865015@N07/6824615510/"><img alt="Lady on her walk" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7208/6824615510_2cb9cb1c65_z.jpg" width="640" height="359" /></a><br /><br />Decided to enjoy the beautiful day with my pups Lady and Ava. Here is what lady thinks of our walks and does this every time-its sad its not even a block from the house...and she wonders why I don't take her out first!A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-62150100597570995102012-03-09T22:16:00.002-06:002012-03-09T22:19:15.249-06:00Running around...Hoping to get back to posting on here soon (like this weekend) when I get some free time. Been busy with work, side invitation orders, and driving Pat to the hospital and Dr. follow ups.A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061429805970797144.post-34520036725028962712012-02-29T22:37:00.005-06:002012-02-29T22:45:51.485-06:00Ugly Paper Challenge LO-"Good Times"Found my camera cord just in time to get this layout uploaded for the Feb. ugly paper challenge. This LO was also inspired by Let's get sketchy's impromptu challenge on their <a href="http://letsgetsketchy.blogspot.com/">blog</a>. <br /><br /><a title="Good Times by awilder2008, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/75865015@N07/6796794158/"><img alt="Good Times" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7180/6796794158_13f9f48fa5_z.jpg" width="640" height="608" /></a><br /><br />Glad to get Pat out of his RIC room and outside to roll down Michigan Ave. One of his friends stopped by for a visit and we went exploring the streets right before christmas. Enjoyed the lights on the trees and posed with a very nice silver lady :)A. Wilderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12906659753801019699noreply@blogger.com0