bonnie egenton's blog

Holiday Craft Projects

2011-12-20T20:27:00.003-05:00

Just a quick post with photos of the holiday craft projects I've made this month for the Ranger blog. It's been a whirlwind of fun and creativity with the Ranger team. I've gotten so much inspiration from everyone who has participated. Now on to finish baking holiday cookies and lots of wrapping!

Holiday happenings

2011-12-04T14:20:00.002-05:00

Such a wonderful, busy time of the year. Thanksgiving was a blur, spent last weekend decorating and crafting for the Christmas season. This weekend I helped mom and dad trim their Christmas tree, worked on cards and more holiday crafting. To see some quick, easy and great ornament crafting ideas using Ranger Memory Glass and Frames, see the holiday video on the Ranger website this month. And check out the Ranger blog each day for more holiday projects and inspiration! I made this ornament with lots of embossing powder and Stickles glitter glue, such fun.

New video about Liquid Pearls

2011-11-07T19:44:00.002-05:00

Check out this month's Rangerink.com video on Liquid Pearls! It was a lot of fun to put together. Hope you get some good ideas for creating holiday cards and crafts.

Grounds for Sculpture - exploring

2011-09-20T19:57:00.009-04:00

Earlier this month I went to explore Grounds for Sculpture with my parents. We spent a couple of hours wandering through the garden rooms discovering the wide variety of sculptures around each corner, path or tree-lined walkway. Then we walked through the woods, over a bridge with a pond and waterfall to Rats restaurant. There we sat outside by the water with a gorgeous view and enjoyed a tasty lunch. All in all a terrific day spent with my two very special parents celebrating their wedding anniversary of 61 years.

Distress Stains Craft Video at Summer CHA

2011-08-01T20:32:00.003-04:00

It's been a whirlwind couple of months with the Ranger team working hard to get ready for the Summer Craft & Hobby tradeshow. The show was exciting as usual and the Ranger booth had many creative new products to show off-Claudine Hellmuth Studio Paints, new Surfaces to ink and paint, Perfect Pearl Mists in 12 new vibrant colors, new Distress Stains and more!

Here's a fun video I did for Craft Critique. This was during our Innovations presentation for the top 20 new products for the show. Here I'm demonstrating Tim's new Distress Stain in Picket Fence white -- a new unique, opaque formula. Love to use Picket Frence to mute the other 37 colors of Distress Stain or change the color of decorative scrapbook papers by whitewashing it.

Collage Box Collaboration

2011-06-15T20:04:00.006-04:00

Working at Ranger means having the opportunity to create projects for the website, blog, tradeshows and sales opportunities. I wanted to do a masculine home decor type project for a Father's Day blog post. So I started out collaging this box and was running low on time to finish, so Patti Behan offered to help and then Debbie Tlach added the finishing touches with her creative ideas -- so wala - a project that we all enjoyed collaborating on together! Check out project instructions on the Ranger website.

creative chaos

2011-06-12T13:18:00.003-04:00

Somehow whenever the creative crafting bug hits, I start out with a nice big clean, empty table and then end up with about 6 inches of space to work in by time the project is done!

Archival Ink Project

2011-06-01T20:01:00.002-04:00

Ranger has launched new Archival Ink colors just in time for summer crafting! Check out the quick card I made for the website feature this month. Why did I use Archival Ink? The big deal about them is that they are waterproof, so coloring with them won't muddy your artwork.

Creativity in abundance

2011-05-22T16:10:00.002-04:00

I've been thinking a lot lately about what really encompasses creativity. I find myself always feeling pressure if I don't regularly get in the studio and do some artwork. Webster's dictionary defines creativity as creative ability; artistic or intellectual inventiveness. When I think about inventiveness, that opens up a lot wider view of creative endeavors that we all are a part of everyday. Creativity in writing, decision-making, learning, solving problems and having fun. So, on that note, I'm going to show my now wider view of creativity here. This is my birthday cake. I asked my mom to make a chocolate velvet cake we used to always get as kids. I hadn't had that cake in 20 years. She obliged and we enjoyed every bite. Making a cake from scratch with lots of layers and special icings, now that is creative and filled with love!

Happy Birthday Mom & Dad

2011-05-16T06:06:00.002-04:00

Even though it was a drizzly, gray day, we had a blast celebrating my parents birthdays! Mom turned 81 and Dad 83 on May 15. We went to Braveheart's Scottish Pub in Hellertown, PA. I had the salmon, which was awesome! All of us had a blast - Mom, Dad, Billy, my brother Bob and his wife Laurie, and my nephew Christopher.

Holiday Ornaments with Adirondack Alcohol Inks

2010-12-02T17:19:00.004-05:00

It's been a while since I've posted--funny how life gets in the way, but that should be the priority right? Anyway, sharing a link to a video with Tim Holtz and I having some fun making quick and easy holiday ornaments with Adirondack Alcohol Inks. These are addicting!!

Pottery-making!

2010-10-28T17:54:00.002-04:00

My newest muse--working with clay. I haven't done pottery since high school art class, but am having fun taking classes with my friend Lennis. Here are some photos of completed work, a tealight lantern, and work-in-progress, serving bowls. Lots of fun!

In the studio

2010-09-19T15:09:00.002-04:00

Hmmm, so many beads, so little time. I'm on a bracelet kick these days and having fun making quick projects for gift-giving and for myself!

Happy Labor Day

2010-09-06T19:34:00.002-04:00

It was a gorgeous Labor Day Weekend! Spent Saturday night with family and friends for our annual dinner when Mary-Frances was here from Ireland with her friend Lousie from England. We had a wonderful time, but oh so short. Hope to spend a lot more time together next year!

Farmer's Market

2010-08-29T20:57:00.004-04:00

Saturday I went to the Montgomery Farmer's Market and stocked up on some wonderful fruits, vegetables, homemade mozzarella cheese and freshly baked breads. Enjoyed trying out some new recipes today. Yummy!

Friends at CHA

2010-07-25T18:05:00.003-04:00

The girls have been sending me photos of their first day getting ready for CHA in Chicago. Lots of work to set up the booth, but it looks like they are ready for the challenge! Debbie, Patti, Teresa and Jackie, miss you -wish I could be there... have fun!!

Decisions decisions

2010-06-27T07:56:00.002-04:00

Hmmm, which shoes go best with mom's crop pants?

Peonies in bloom

2010-05-23T19:03:00.003-04:00

Along the side garden we have huge peony bushes that were probably planted 30 years ago. Each year they display a profusion of bright pink, pale pink and white peony flowers that are breathtaking. This year is no different, except that they are a little early which is okay with me!

Bailey's update

2010-05-12T08:11:00.002-04:00

Bailey says, it's raining again. A perfect excuse to sleep in. No, Bonnie no, don't put the light on, agghhh!

Easing into summer

2010-05-02T07:32:00.002-04:00

The past couple of days have brought the warmer weather-yay! Bailey makes it clear that warm or chilly, when easing into a new season it's important to take it slowly.

Spring in full bloom and more

2010-04-15T18:59:00.003-04:00

It's been a while since I posted. Meanwhile spring in NJ is in full bloom, each day the trees and plants pop with more and more color. Looking forward to spending time outdoors gardening when it's "safe" to plant in May!

This morning I watched a very inspiring story on the news that I wanted to share. It was about music and healing for children and teens. There is an organization called Songs of Love - the Medicine of Music. Their mission since 1996 is to create unique songs for children who are struggling with tough medical issues. To date over 19,000 songs have been created by many, many musicians - how cool is that!! Another example of how art can help heal.

Snowy days

2010-02-27T21:49:00.002-05:00

Wow, we have had more snow this winter than I can remember as an adult. Of course, it always seemed like we had a lot of snow when I was a kid! It has been gorgeous, but I think everyone has had enough already. Took some quick pics with my new camera. Tried to get Bailey to go out and check it out but he would have no part of the white stuff -- smart kitty!

Catching Up

2010-02-14T09:06:00.003-05:00

Whew, it has been a busy, snow-filled two weeks since CHA. Catching up at work, at home, getting back into a routine with school and on and on. A couple more pics from CHA. All the Ranger girls created artwork on white aprons for the show. We all had a blast, and it just might become a new thing to do! Painting, altering, sewing, stamping, glueing/stickling, adding bling, adding color - you name it, we tried it. Lots and lots of fun.

Winter CHA 2010 Highlights

2010-01-30T20:00:00.003-05:00

Whew, back from CHA - a whirlwind week, home again to the glamour of laundry, bills and food shopping! This show was great, a much more positive atmosphere than the last two shows and store owners were excited about new products. Check out the latest new products at Ranger. Here are some photos from the show. I don't have a lot of photos as I dropped my camera on the show floor and it is no longer working, bummer. Now to find a camera repair shop . . . sigh.

Prepping for CHA Winter Show

2010-01-18T07:50:00.003-05:00

It has been a very busy couple weeks getting last minute tasks done for CHA. The big deadline is always the booth ship date and it went out last Friday-whew! Here are some Stickles card projects I worked on for a booth display. Had some issues with my shoulder swelling because I was doing too much, so I had to back off a bit. It's funny how when you start feeling better, you start doing more than you should!

Spent the weekend getting ahead on school work, finishing another Ranger project for the booth (more on that in another post), and judiciously packing for the show. Packing was a huge challenge because I usually take 2 suitcases, and had to wheedle down to 1 suitcase under 50 pounds. I'm still not allowed to lift anything, so will be doing suitcase dragging with my right arm only. It was a self-satisfying exercise in simplifying but took a lot of time to accomplish.

Check out new Ranger video on inks

2010-01-03T18:16:00.004-05:00

Here is the latest video I did for Ranger before my shoulder surgery. It's based on multiple customer service requests to answer basic questions about ink. Enjoy!

Christmas memories

2009-12-27T11:46:00.002-05:00

The hustle and bustle of the holidays is settling down and it's nice to have some quiet time to reflect. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day were filled with family, too much food and making lots of heartfelt memories.

home life these days

2009-12-13T19:52:00.005-05:00

Now on day 18 from shoulder surgery. The first week was a blur due to the heavy-duty painkillers and no sleeping at night. Week two was better, sleeping a couple hours at a time and on painkillers that I could still function with, the past few days much better, sleeping 4 hours at a time at night and getting back to work for Ranger at home a couple hours a day--lots to do to get ready for Winter CHA Tradeshow. Physical therapy is miserable, but necessary three times a week. Pics here of Bailey taken this week sum up my daily routine: work and trying to get rest to heal. Typing with one finger as I'm still in a sling . . .

Tuesday Tunes - Jimmy Buffet at Madison Square Garden

2009-11-24T16:17:00.003-05:00

It has been a whirlwind few weeks and I've not had a moment to post. I have just about 10 minutes before Helen will be pulling in my driveway and we race to the train into NYC. We're going to dinner and to see Jimmy Buffet at Madison Square Garden tonight. I've got really good seats and it will be my last concert for awhile since I'm getting shoulder surgery tomorrow morning. Will be good to have a fun evening NOT thinking about tomorrow morning!! I will be home for 6-8 weeks not able to drive, that will be a challenge . . .

I spent this past weekend doing all the last minute things since I will be in a sling for the next 3 weeks. I had to think long and hard about what I could live without as far as decorating for Christmas. So, I put up the tree, put out the nativity, and got all the present wrapping done -- the most important things after all . . . though I will miss all the baking - will be the first time since I was about 5 that I didn't bake for Christmas!

I took these photos of Bailey this morning. He is excited to have his Christmas tree back and a little bit earlier than usual. He is spending his time under the tree and right by it and will until the day it comes down!

Tuesday Tunes-new lyrics Timothy B Schmit

2009-11-03T21:43:00.002-05:00

Thought I would share lyrics to a new tune that Timothy B. Schmit wrote for his new album, Expando. This is a tongue-in-cheek song that rings so true for everyone in dealing with that one person (only one if you're lucky)in their life that creates a lot of drama! Good to remember these lyrics when stuck in the midst of one of their emotional outbursts-I'm sure we can all relate . . .

I Don't Mind by Timothy B. Schmit

How come you threaten that you just might go?

Why do you want to pick a fight?

What makes you tick, I swear I don't know

I bet you can't sleep at night.

I never know who you're gonna be today

I always take time to check it out

I only need to get a good look at your face

To see what it's all about

Sometimes without warning

You strike with all your glory

But, I'm able to take a step back

And look around, get on the right track, 'cuz

I don't mind, go ahead and be that way

I don't mind, I'm happy at the end of the day

Well, it's too bad you live with such misery

Everybody knows it loves company

But count me out . . . I'm doing just fine 'cuz, I don't mind

I haven't had a dream for a long, long time

But, last night took me by surprise

Out of the shadows you walked right up to me

Wiping the tears from your eyes

I didn't know what to do so I asked you, "why?"

You opened up your mouth to try to speak

But, you changed your mind and you passed right by

Then I woke up from my troubled sleep

So heavy, the drama

Your self-inflicted trauma

I hope you get a little rest

Meanwhile I wish you my best 'cuz

I don't mind, everybody does what they like

I don't mind, nobody's always right

When you make a big scene and you wanna shout

I will take anything that you're giving out

I can jump through hoops, you can cross that line,

Still, I don't mind!

Everybody's got a little edge that's rough

Everybody needs to piss and moan

There's not a single human that I can think of

That doesn't need some time alone

So when I see you coming and it's looking bad

When I feel you heating up the room

I'll turn the other cheek and I'll be so glad

To avoid the impending doom

I'm lucky . . . my plate's full

Dont mean to sound ungrateful

Any which way that wind blows

You'll be my friend 'cuz you know

I don't mind, go ahead and be that way

I don't mind, I'm happy at the end of the day

Well, it's too bad youlive with such misery

Evetrybody knows it loves company

But, count me out . . . I'm doing just fine 'cuz

I don't mind, I don't mind!

Need concert tickets, link here to the latest through Ticketmaster - yes, I do have an affiliate relationship with Ticketmaster, thanks for linking here!

Halloween at Ranger

2009-10-31T15:06:00.002-04:00

Every year for Halloween, Ranger has a party and many of the gals (and guys too) get dressed up. See the innovative and fun costumes that Debra, Debbie, Michelle, Teresa, Patti and Jackie conjured up!!

Tuesday Tunes-Timothy B. Schmit concert in NYC

2009-10-27T20:48:00.005-04:00

It's truly energizing when you meet people who have the same interests as you. So was the case when my friend Helen and I stood in line last Wednesday to see Timothy B. Schmit perform at The Bitter End. Funny how strangers become friends, even if it is temporary, as they are anxiously awaiting seeing a musician whose music has carried them throughout their lifetime. Timothy played The Shadow from his last solo album, Feed The Fire, to begin the night. He played a few Eagles tunes, I Can't Tell You Why, I Don't Want To Hear Any More (from Long Road Out of Eden), and Love Will Keep Us Alive. A treat for me was hearing his Poco hit, Keep On Tryin' as I'd never heard that live before. Timothy also sang most of the songs from his new album, Expando which is a mix of folk rock, blues and country rock. My favorite song from the album is Parachute, with Graham Nash singing back up vocals--awesome music. Here are some pics from the show--I was fortunate to be sitting right in front of the stage, a night I'll never forget . . .

Tuesday Tunes - Timothy B. Schmit in NYC tomorrow

2009-10-20T21:14:00.007-04:00

Timothy B. Schmit's new solo album, Expando, was released today! You can hear songs at Timothy's site. I'm feeling very fortunate to have gotten tickets to see Timothy tomorrow night at The Bitter End in Manhattan. My best buddy Helen is going with me--this is so wonderful since she and I have been fans since our teens, trying to play the guitar--strumming and singing to Eagles songs. So psyched for tomorrow night!! More photos of Timothy here are from the Eagles concert Billy and I attended in Dublin while visiting family in June.

Bernards High School Reunion Class of 1979

2009-10-17T19:32:00.006-04:00

Last Saturday night was my 30th high school reunion. I had never gone to any of the other reunions, although Helen has tried each and every time to convince me to go. For some reason, this time I said yes. It was amazing to see where people are in life, and to be able to relate to so many life experiences that we've all been through.

Tuesday Tunes-Jackson Browne

2009-10-13T19:59:00.002-04:00

Went to my high school reunion over the weekend and it was great catching up with people I haven't seen in . . . 30 years! Wow, so much living that went by so quickly. So, lyrics from a Jackson Browne song from that year, You Love the Thunder:

When you look over your shoulder
And you see the life that you've left behind
When you think it over do you ever wonder?
What it is that holds your life so close to mine

You love the thunder, and you love the rain
What you see revealed within the anger is worth the pain
and before the lightning fades and you surrender
You've got a second to look at the dark side of the man

You love the thunder and you love the rain
You know your hunger like you know your name
And I know you wonder how you ever came
To be a woman in love with a man in search of the flame

Draw the shade and light the fire
For the night that holds you and calls your name
And just like your lover, knows your desire
And the crazy longing that time will never tame

You love the thunder and you love the rain
you know your hunger like you know your name
I got your number if it's still the same
You can dream
But you can never go back the way you came.

Looking for concert tickets? Get them here through Ticketmaster:

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Claudine Hellmuth Studio Paints project in Stamper's Sampler

2009-10-10T14:09:00.002-04:00

Working for Ranger, we get a wide variety of arts and crafts magazines coming in our door every month. Sometimes it's hard to keep up with them, even though I need to as part of my job. Michelle noticed that my house project from the Winter CHA designer challenge using Claudine Hellmuth Studio paints and Sticky-back Canvas was in Stamper's Sampler. Check it out if you have the October/November edition on page 33, along with other designer's work! What a nice surprise.

Tuesday Tunes - Blue Sparks From Hell

2009-10-04T17:10:00.004-04:00

Two weeks ago I went to see some old friends play at the Delaware Water Gap Jazz Festival. The Blue Sparks From Hell have been playing music together for 30+ years. This is the first time they have gotten together in a few years as Tim and Andy are on tour constantly with the bluegrass band, Railroad Earth. I used to go see the Sparks every Sunday night at the Stanhope House. Listening to them play at the Jazz Festival and dancing to every song, it was just like old times. By the way, if you want to see Railroad Earth, they will be at the Nokia Center, New York City on 10/17.

Other music news, Jimmy Buffett is playing at Madison Square Garden on 11/24. Tickets went on sale yesterday and I got two great seats! I've always wanted to see Jimmy Buffett, so I'm really psyched about going. Anyone looking for tickets to that event or any other music event, just click on the link below to get to Ticketmaster. Just so you are aware, if you do buy from my blog link, I get credit for the sale so thank you for your support!

Artful fun

2009-09-27T21:51:00.010-04:00

A gathering of the Tiara Chronicles art group was long overdue. We got together at Suze's studio last week where she taught us all about encaustic wax techniques. Everyone's artwork was so unique and gorgeous. We had a blast! In these photos: the Tiara girls, Lisa, me and Suze, Teresa's fabulous artwork, Lisa, Debbie and her stunning piece, Teresa, Linda and Suze.

Kings of Leon Tuesday Tunes

2009-09-15T18:22:00.000-04:00

Tuesday Tunes

Billy and I went to see the alternative rock band Kings of Leon at the Izod Center on Saturday night. We had terrific seats . . . on the side of the stage 10 rows up. It was very cool to be able to watch the band and sound people so closely as the show was going on. Of course they mostly played songs from their latest album, Only By The Night but they also played a number of tunes from their last album, Because of the Times, and a few from their first two albums. Loved the show, would definitely recommend going if you have a chance, I'll be back! The only bummer was I didn't get any photos as my phone battery was too low . . . next time!

Here are lyrics from one of my favorite songs: Revelry by Nathan Followill, Caleb Followill, Matthew Followill and Jared Followill.

What a night for a dance, you know I'm a dancing machine

With a fire in my bones and the sweet taste of kerosene

I get lost in the night so high I don't want to come down

To face the loss of the good thing that I had found

Woo hoo hoooo, woo hoo hoooo

In the dark of the night I can hear you callin' my name

With the hardest of hearts, I still feel full of pain

So I drink and I smoke and I ask if you're ever around

Even though it was me who drove us right in the ground

See the time we shared it was precious to me

But all the whileI was dreamin of revelry

I wanna run baby run like a stream down a mountainside

With the wind at my back I don't ever even bat an eye

Just know it was you all along who had a hold of my heart

But the demon and me were the best of friends from the start

So the time we shared it was precious to me

All the whileI was dreamin' of revelry, dreamin' of revelry

And I told myself boy away you go, it rained so hard that it felt like snow

Everything came tumbling down on me

In the back of the woods, in the dark of night, the palest of the old moonlight

Everything just felt so incomplete, dreamin' of revelry

A relaxed weekend at LBI

2009-09-07T10:38:00.005-04:00

Back from LBI, all relaxed after spending a long weekend with old friends, a new friend and family. Met Billy's best friend Michael, Linda, cousin Mary-Frances in from Ireland (yay!!) and her friend Louise from London at our annual gathering in LBI. It was a bit chilly the first day, but warmed up more and more each day. It was nice to be away from the computer (though I admit I did check mail on my Blackberry), and do nothing more than relax on the beach, shop a little, eat a lot and laugh even more with friends! A great way to enjoy the last few precious days of summer . . .

Tuesday Tunes - Keith Urban tonight in Hershey PA

2009-08-18T06:55:00.002-04:00

Going to see Keith Urban in Hershey PA tonight with my fellow country music fan, Teresa! So today's Tuesday Tunes is a song that Keith wrote for his wife Nicole Kidman. Wow, how nice to have a special song written for you by your husband . . . calling all husbands out there, you could win big points with your wives!!

Thank You by Keith Urban

There were nights where I was sure I wouldn't see the morining sun

And there were days that seemed so dark I couldn't wait for night to come

I couldn't stand to think about how my life used to be

And how without a single warning, it all slipped away from me

Like a fool I thought that I could fight the shadows on my own

To the dark I was no stranger, but this was stronger than I'd known

And by the time that I knew that I was in too deep, I'd gone too far

And the light that used to guide me had faded from my heart

And I found myself in places I thought I'd never go

Surrounded by strangers I was so far from home

And I don't know how you found me, aAll I know is I owe everything to you

Yes I do, and I thank you for my heart, I thank you for my life

And I thank God for grace and mercy and that you became my wife

I'm seeing for the first time, the stars, the sun, and moon

But they've got nothing on the power of this love I have for you

And I thank you, I thank you

Now people say they'll stand beside you, they swear they'll never leave

But when the rain started falling, you know it only fell on me

And it was hard to keep believing in myself

Wwhen all I felt was so much pain and guilt and shame

I couldn't even ask for help.

I don't know if I believe in other lives, but when you came

There was something so familiar about the way you said my name

And the whole world started turning and I swear that I'd been born again brand new

And it's all because of you, and so I thank you for my heart,

I thank you for my life and I thank God for grace and mercy

And that you became my wife. I'm seeing for the first time

The stars, the sun, and moon.

But they've got nothing on the power of this love I have for you

And I thank you. And I've seen so many things that I just can't explain

But the miracle of miracles is how with your loved I was saved

And I thank you I thank you for my life I thank God for grace and mercy

And that you became my wife

And I'm seeing for the first time the stars, the sun, and moon

But they've got nothing on the power of all this love I give to you

And I thank you for my heart, I thank you for my life I thank God for grace and mercy

And that you became my wife. The day I started breathing

Was the day you took my hand and 'til the day I die baby I'll forever be your man

And I thank you, I thank you

Crosby Stills Nash concert - a blast

2009-08-15T18:08:00.004-04:00

Tuesday night my BFF Helen and I went to see Crosby Stills Nash at the PNC Arts Center. They have been playing music together (off and on) for 40 years. Their gig at Woodstock 40 years ago this weekend was only their second time playing together!

It was a lot of fun-they played their own music as well as hits from the Woodstock era-Grateful Dead, James Taylor and more. Helen and I also won tickets for Poco and Loggins & Messina next weekend, so we will be back at the Arts Center then for another night of fabulous music.

Tuesday Tunes-Crosby, Stills & Nash

2009-08-11T07:04:00.000-04:00

Going to see Crosby, Stills & Nash at PCN Arts Center tonight, so I thought it would be a nice nod to the event by posting the lyrics to one of their popular songs with a timeless message.

Teach Your Children by

You who are on the road,

Must have a code that you can live by.

And so become yourself,

Because the past is just a good bye.

Teach your children well,

Their father's hell did slowly go by.

And feed them on your dreams.

The one they picked.

The one you'll know by.

Don't you ever ask them why,

If they told you, you would cry.

So just look at them and sigh and know they love you.

And you, of tender years,

Can't know the fears that your elders grew by.

And so please help them with your youth.

They seek the truth before they can die.

Teach your parents well,

Their children's hell will slowly go by.

And feed them on your dreams.

The one they picked, the one you'll know by.

Don't you ever ask them why, if they told you, you would cry.

So just look at them and sigh and know they love you.

Summer CHA highlights

2009-08-02T15:58:00.012-04:00

Whew, what a whirlwind month. I'v e been so lax about posting, and the ironic thing is, I've had a lot I could have posted about! Must think about catching up in the next few weeks. So, back from Summer CHA in the sweltering humidity of Orlando. It was a very small show, but we were still very busy in the Ranger booth, thankfully. Here are some pictures from the week--getting the booth ready, the ducks at the Peabody Hotel, classes with Claudine and Suze, and girls night out at BB Kings Blues Club. Glad to be home now, rested up and not living out of a suitcase for a while. My new Dell was waiting for me when I got home on Friday and I spent most of yesterday getting it up and running and loading software and files --yay, everything is working beautifully and quickly!

Back from Ireland

2009-07-04T21:14:00.004-04:00

Wow, what a whirlwind trip visiting relatives, touring and more. Jet lag caught up with me today as well as a cold I've been fighting (of course screaming at the Eagles concert Thursday night didn't help my sore throat). Here's some pictures from the trip . . . more coming soon. These are photos from the Aran Islands and Connemara Mountains. Billy and cousin Mary-Frances at the dock on Aran.

Packing for Ireland

2009-06-21T20:22:00.003-04:00

Spent the day packing for my Ireland holiday. Billy and I leave later this week to visit family. His cousin Mary-Frances built a house in the Aran Islands and we're going over for a housewarming. It will be great to see her, Billy's other cousins, aunts and uncles. We're also going to do some touring, visit the family farm, and round out the end of the week at an Eagles Concert in Dublin!! Figured we could squeeze in the concert while we're there . . . off to the old country, yay!! I "lost" Sammy while I was packing, and then realized she had found a comfy spot to snooze in the armoire on a pile of sweaters . . . so my packing was done, as I didn't want to disturb her to reach some sweaters that were buried!

Another Ranger U Photo Opp

2009-06-14T13:59:00.005-04:00

It's been a really, really busy week with no time for posting. Just thought I would share more photos from Ranger U. Here are Michelle, me, Claudine and Margot Potter --you know Margot, the Impatient Beader. I think it's so funny that in this picture, all the gals are neck-accessorized with scarves, beads and baubles--girly girls that we are! In the second shot, the three Ranger Signature Designers, Suze Weinberg, Claudine Hellmuth and Tim Holtz.

Ranger University weekend

2009-06-06T14:02:00.003-04:00

It's another Ranger University weekend at Ranger! Photo here is Suze Weinberg teaching all about the Melting Pot and UTEE yesterday. Today's agenda has Claudine Hellmuth and Tim Holtz teaching. Friday night we had a terrific barbecue with Ranger designers, staff and class attendees. I have to say it is a great event and so much fun to meet people from all over the world!

More projects from Art & Soul

2009-05-31T20:46:00.000-04:00

Here is a collage/painting/beeswax project I did in Lisa Kaus' class on my birthday. It was a wonderful, relaxing, creative way to spend the day!

Important steps for new printer

2009-05-28T20:31:00.002-04:00

I had to replace my printer/fax/copier/scanner in the last few days. As I disassembled the old one, and opened the box for the new one, Bailey watched every step of the way. As I was trying to finish setting up the fax, he informed me that it was break time by settling on top of the instructions. Of course, a nice soft quilt on the bed, but he must always lay on top of a piece of paper. I just don't get it - anyone out there understand why????

Art & Soul jewelry

2009-05-23T18:16:00.003-04:00

Finally have a chance to post a photo from Art & Soul. These are charms I made and soldered in Sally Jean Alexander's Soldering for Virgins class. I had been trying to get in this class for a couple years and finally succeeded. Had a blast, Sally Jean was a wonderful instructor with oodles of patience. Yay, finally feel comfortable using the soldering iron I bought over 2 years ago!!

Recycled gift bag

2009-05-20T06:58:00.004-04:00

Picture this: getting ready to run out the door to deliver a birthday present. All that's left to do is wrap it. Then I realize I have no gift bags to fit the large gift. Hmmm, stop at Hallmark and buy one for a fortune, or use one of the many store shopping bags in my stash. So I quickly stamp some flowers on Claudine's Sticky-back Canvas, stick it over the bag logo, and trim with rickrack glued on with Claudine's Multi-Medium. Wala, a gorgeous gift bag for no $$! My mom loved it and the gift.

Relaxing weekend

2009-05-18T06:56:00.002-04:00

After weeks and weeks of craziness, it was nice to have a weekend to slow down, catch up on sleep and relax a bit! Bailey agrees, although he makes relaxing a top priority everyday. Hmmm, maybe we could learn something from cats!

Back from NAMTA

2009-05-10T18:33:00.007-04:00

Got home today from Louisville, Kentucky where Ranger had a booth. NAMTA stands for the National Art Materials Trade Association. It was a quiet show--the slowest show in many, many years according to other exhibitors who have done this show before. Here are pics from the booth. Patti, Claudine and I took turns at the Make It Take It table and demo table. We also had a visit from Bernie Berlin which was a lot of fun!

Back from Art & Soul Retreat

2009-05-05T18:11:00.006-04:00

Thelma and Louise drove home yesterday in the rain from Hampton, VA. Art & Soul was wonderful as usual. Met so many kindred souls and so much beautiful art was created! Photos are from the Opening Night Party sponsored by Ranger that Michelle and I taught with help from Lennis and Lisa. See our host, my man Elvis in the pics--theme is Rock N Roll, of course! Off to Kentucky tomorrow for the NAMTA tradeshow, so I'll have to post about classes I took after I return!

Getting ready for Art & Soul Retreat

2009-04-26T17:33:00.003-04:00

I haven't posted much lately, the past several weeks have been so packed with family, friends, work and more. I spent this gorgeous sunny, summery weekend mostly indoors packing for two back-to-back trips in in the next two weeks. I did get a chance to get out in the garden for about an hour and planted in the dirt!

Michelle and I are off to teach the Opening Night Party at Art & Soul Retreat, Hampton Virginia again this year. The photo shows the project we're going to do. Then we're taking 4 straight days and nights of classes, can't wait will be a blast. I'll be home for a day and then off to the National Art Materials Trade Show to work a booth for Ranger - this is the first year in many years that Ranger will be at this show. That too should be a blast--will be demo'ing and doing Make It Take It's with Claudine and Patti. Will be a whirlwind two weeks, so probably won't post until I get back!!

Wedding Celebration

2009-04-19T20:08:00.012-04:00

My niece Kristen got married yesterday! It was a gorgeous day for a wedding and the location was just beautiful with a rolling view of the mountains and New York City skyline. It was a celebration of love, friends and family--we all had a blast, shed a few tears for those who we were missing. Though my brother Bob (the bride's dad) put it perfectly when he said that it was a gorgeous day courtesy of our angels, so they were there! Pictured: Kristen before ceremony; Kristen and new husband Rick in golf cart; Gary and I; Billy, me, Dad, Mom, Bob, Laurie (bride's parents); Mom and Dad; My nephew Christopher, me, Bob, my nephew Matthew; Gary and my sister-in-law Patti; me and Billy.

What's better than a box?

2009-04-13T20:08:00.002-04:00

A box with tissue paper in it! Like most typical kitties, Bailey loves boxes and has to jump in any new box that arrives at the house. But even better, a box with some tissue paper because it makes scrunchy sounds when you attack it with your paws!

East Coast Art Expo

2009-04-06T20:36:00.004-04:00

Take six good friends who love to dabble in arts and crafts materials, an open Sunday, and the East Coast Art Expo in Summit and what do you get? Great support for the local economy, and a renewed energy to get back in the studio and play!

Pictured here left to right: me, Suze, Linda hiding, Lisa and Lennis (thank you Joan for taking the photo, but alas you weren't in the picture). In the second photo, Suze and Linda hamming it up over all the great art tool finds!

Lincoln Center - South Pacific

2009-04-05T08:20:00.003-04:00

Today mom and I went into the city to see South Pacific. It was a cold and VERY windy day to be walking in New York, but we made the best of it. We had yummy lunch at PJ Clarke's and split a creme brulee before heading across the street to Lincoln Center.

I had never been in the small theatre before. It was really cool and very intimate. It is a round theatre, we had front row seats along one side of the circle. So the actors are anywhere from 3 - 6 feet away. The orchestra pit is below the stage and the stage moves back to reveal them. From our seats we could see some of the musicians at all times. Hard to really explain, but so cool to be there.

The show was fantastic--not surprised they won 7 Tonys. All in all an excellent day!

Now off to an art materials show with friends today in Summit.

Keith Urban Concert Adventure

2009-04-02T20:14:00.005-04:00

Last night my friend Teresa and I had a wonderful adventure! We had an opportunity to go to a free Keith Urban concert at Webster Hall in NYC. Now understand, when we got into the city, we didn't know if we were going to get in, as we had only had standby tickets. We stood for 2 and 1/2 hours in the cold and rain, then finally were ushered in. Woo hoo!! The concert was phenomenal, as it was not in a huge arena setting, but in a club that only fit about 600 people. I had never seen Keith before. He and his band did an awesome job, seeming to really enjoy the small venue. They played their hits and several tunes from the new album, Defying Gravity, that just came out on Tuesday. Teresa is a veteran Keith concert-goer and she really enjoyed this event too. Now I definitely want tickets to see him at MSG when he is back in August!

Hey Peeps, it's time for the annual Peeps Contest!

2009-03-29T10:10:00.003-04:00

It's that time of year, where Peeps fans buy the famous marshmallow chicks for the spring holiday season. Delectable, completely made of marshmallow and rolled in sugar - a decadent treat that has a huge fan following (of which I am one). Did you know that more Peeps are sold each year than could circle the globe twice? Amazing!

Peeps fans have their own special "recipe" to prepare Peeps before eating. Some folks tear into the packaging and eat them, then and there. Others open the packaging and let them get a little stale so the outside less marshmallowy. And some die hards like me wait weeks to let them get good and stale and chewy all the way through!!

If you have a chance, check out the Just Born website for history, fun facts, tour information and more. It's on my list to go on a tour this spring or summer-Just Born is located in Bethlehem, PA. Anyway, I'm digressing. The point of this post is the contest!

"Primp Your Peeps" is an annual contest held where you create a diorama of Peeps (the theme is completely your choice). Take a photo of it, send to contest@mycentraljersey.com and see if you win one of their great prizes! Get going because all photos will be available online beginning April 3 to start the viewers voting process, which ends on noon, April 10. Even if you don't enter the contest, vote for your Peeps diorama of choice at mycentraljersey.com/peeps. Winners will be announced on Easter, April 12 online and in local newspapers. Good luck! Spread the Peeps joy!!

Tuesday Tunes-Fleetwood Mac

2009-03-24T17:32:00.000-04:00

Since I went to their fabulous concert last week, I can't stop Fleetwood Mac songs in my brain! So here's a favorite . . .

Landslide by Stevie Nicks

I took my love and I took it down
I climbed a mountain and I turned around
And I saw my reflection in the snow covered hills
Well the landslide brought me down
Oh, mirror in the sky
What is love
Can the child within my heart rise above
Can I sail thru the changing ocean tides
Can I handle the seasons of my life
Well, I've been afraid of changing 'cause I built my life around you
But time makes you bolder
Children get older
I'm getting older too
Well...Well, I've been afraid of changing 'cause I built my life around you
But time makes you bolder
Children get older
I'm getting older, too
Well I'm getting older too
So, take this love and take it down
If you climb a mountain and ya turn around
And if you see my reflection in the snow-covered hills
Well the landslide brought me down
And if you see my reflection in the snow-covered hills
Well maybe the landslide will bring you down

Art With Friends

2009-03-23T20:35:00.003-04:00

What better way to spend a Saturday afternoon than with creative, art-minded girlfriends making projects, sharing stories, eating and drinking--our artgroup the Tiara Chronicles. It was heavenly, especially after a busy, busy week. We made cool wire nest pins filled with polymer clay eggs. Debbie lead the project and did an awesome job patiently teaching us all. The photo here I lifted from Lisa's blog--see more details of the day and pics there too!

The Tiara Chronicles continues . . .

Here we all are-back row: Lennis, me, Lisa; front row: Michelle, Patti, Jackie, Debbie and Linda.

Rockin' with Fleetwood Mac

2009-03-20T20:19:00.002-04:00

Last night Billy and I went into the city to see Fleetwood Mac. They put on a terrific show at Madison Square Garden and we had great seats. The energy level was high and the show was awesome! Neither of us had ever seen them live "back in the day" so it was great to finally hear them now. Loved it.

Tuesday Tunes-St. Patty's Day

2009-03-16T21:04:00.004-04:00

In honor of St. Patrick's Day, this Tuesday Tune is: When Irish Eyes Are Smilin'. How many people will be singing along today?????

The photo here was from July 2005, when Billy and I attended a family wedding at this castle in Ireland. We'll be back in the old country in June--can't wait!!

When Irish Eyes Are Smiling

There's a tear in your eye,

And I'm wondering why,

For it never should be there at all.

With such pow'r in your smile,

Sure a stone you'd beguile,

So there's never a teardrop should fall.

When your sweet lilting laughter's

Like some fairy song,

And your eyes twinkle bright as can be;

You should laugh all the while

And all other times smile,

And now, smile a smile for me.

When Irish eyes are smiling,

Sure, 'tis like the morn in Spring.

In the lilt of Irish laughter

You can hear the angels sing.

When Irish hearts are happy,All the world seems bright and gay.

And when Irish eyes are smiling,

Sure, they steal your heart away.

For your smile is a part

Of the love in your heart,

And it makes even sunshine more bright.

Like the linnet's sweet song,

Crooning all the day long,

Comes your laughter and light.

For the springtime of life

Is the sweetest of all

There is ne'er a real care or regret;

And while springtime is ours

Throughout all of youth's hours,

Let us smile each chance we get.

When Irish eyes are smiling,

Sure, 'tis like the morn in Spring.

In the lilt of Irish laughter

You can hear the angels sing.

When Irish hearts are happy,

All the world seems bright and gay.

And when Irish eyes are smiling,

Sure, they steal your heart away.

Busy Weekend

2009-03-15T20:15:00.002-04:00

Had a great weekend - a mix of catching up with friends, and sharing time with family. Friday night I met Michelle, Lisa and Lennis at Old Man Rafferty's in New Brunswick. The four of us will be attending Art & Soul in about a month, so we wanted to get together to compare classes and catch up. We had a great time, and of course, saved room for dessert as that is what Rafferty's is known for!

Saturday night Billy and I joined my parents to watch my nephew Christopher in college hockey playoffs at Princeton. They (Union) lost to Princeton Friday, so we were a bit nervous. They ended up winning 5-2! Best two out of three is going on as I'm writing this and I'm nervous all over again!! Hope they are winning!

Today I went to Sugarloaf craft festival with my good friend Lynn. We go every spring and fall. It was kind of quiet at first, but then the crowd picked up later. We did our part to help keep the economy and the artisans in business! I bought some cool belts, a macrame shirt, and of course some bracelets by Claire -- her creations are awesome. So, it was a busy but fun-filled weekend that went way too quickly!

Early Mornings

2009-03-11T21:28:00.005-04:00

I get up early during the week to work out. The alarm goes off and I jump out of bed at 4:10 a.m. Here are photos comparing the "girls" vs. the "boys" in my house. Sammy and I are up-she is my personal trainer always at my side; Bailey and Billy totally crashed . . . amazing, must be a gender thing.

Tuesday Tunes-Bob Dylan

2009-03-10T06:30:00.000-04:00

This week's tune is from one of the great poets of the late 20th Century, Bob Dylan. It's always been a favorite!

Make You Feel My Love

When the rain is blowin' in your face
And the whole world is on your case
I could offer you a warm embrace
To make you feel my love
When evening shatters and the stars appear
And there is no one there to dry your tears
I could hold you for a million years
To make you feel my love

I know you haven't made your mind up yet
But I would never do you wrong
I've known it frm the moment that we met
No doubt in my mind where you belong
I'd go hungry, I'd go black and blue
I'd go crawling down the avenue
No there's nothing that I wouldn't do
To make you feel my love

The storms are raging on the rolling sea
And on the highway of regret
The winds of change are blowing wild and free
You ain't seen nothing like me yet
I could make you happy make your dreams come true
Nothin' that I wouldn't do
Go to the ends of the earth for you
To make you feel my love

Fort Lauderdale weekend

2009-03-04T20:56:00.004-05:00

My original 3-day weekend was extended to 5 days due to the east coast snowstorms, with day 5 spent in the airport due to further delays from the weather. I had a wonderful time catching up with Gary. His condo on the beach is fabulous and the views are gorgeous as you can see from the pictures. It was so strange to be looking out the window at the water and beach one day, and looking out my office window at Ranger today with all that snow!

Stuck in Ft. Lauderdale

2009-03-02T18:08:00.002-05:00

Well, I'm still here since my flight was cancelled last night due to the storms up and down the east coast. No flights today, so I'll be heading home late tomorrow. I have lots of photos of the beach from Gary's condo (right on the beach, literally you walk out the door onto the beach, gorgeous). I didn't bring my disk adaptor to upload the photos so they'll have to wait til later in the week.

I've had a wonderful weekend, and not so sad to be here for an extra two days - I slept in, worked out in the gym downstairs, had lunch in an Irish pub, the Sly Fox, and went shopping this afternoon. Found this cute little shop that had fun and funky clothes that you don't see in the mall -- did my share to help the local Florida retailer today! Going to dinner with Gary to a little French bistro tonight.

Ranger girls lunch date

2009-02-26T21:13:00.004-05:00

Suze Weinberg had the brilliant idea to get everyone together today and go to Redheads for lunch. Suze loves the sushi at Redheads and I enjoy their salads. Here's a photo of all of us having a too brief and too infrequent lunch out. I look star-struck (can my eyes be any wider??), but it's because my knees are killing me from bending down for multiple pictures--hmmm, maybe I need a day off from the treadmill or maybe more lunges. In the photo, Jackie, Suze, Michelle, Patti, Debbie, me and Teresa. Good pals always have fun together! Okay back to packing for Ft. Lauderdale, yay a weekend in the sunshine to visit with big brother Gary!!

Tuesday Tunes-Whiskey Falls

2009-02-24T20:45:00.002-05:00

Whiskey Falls is a relatively new band on the country rock scene with their first album out at the end of last year. If you like the Eagles, country rock or southern rock, you will love their music. This song has nice lyrics and tempo for a wedding song or anniversary song. You may assume from the title that they're doing a cover from the Outlaws song back in the early 80's, but this one is all new.

Can't Stop Loving You

Baby can you tell me is their something on your mind

You tell me that you love me but then you start to cry

Oh baby let me hold you close and help you to believe

You're the only one inside my heart the only one I need

I know its complicated just making sense of life

I know your hesitating you been hurt to many times

But I aint gonna let you down know this much is true

Even if the world should end I'll be here for you

I don't wanna live with out you baby

I don't wanna find somebody new

I can't stop loving you, I can't stop loving you

Girl you know I'd die before I hurt you

Never let you down I won't desert you

I can't stop loving you, I can't stop loving you

So if the stars fall from the skies and the sun stops shining too

I'll be by your side cause I can't stop loving you

You could wait forever as the world is passing by

Love lies in the balance of hope and compromise

It takes more then memories or pictures on a wall

A little trust a lot of faith will get us trough it all

I don't wanna live with out you baby

I don't wanna find somebody new

I can't stop loving you, I can't stop loving you

Girl you know I'd die before I hurt you

Never let you down I won't desert you

I can't stop loving you, I can't stop loving you

So if the stars fall from the skies and the sun stops shining too

I'll be by your side cause I can't stop loving you

So many things I'll never know but this I understand

Loving you is the easy part, I was made to be your man

Our love is in our hands

A Perfect Rose

2009-02-22T10:29:00.005-05:00

"These roses under my window make no reference to former roses or to better ones; they are for what they are . . . there is no time for them. There is simply the rose; it is perfect in every moment of its existence." -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Just for today, just for this moment (after all, isn't this moment all we really have??), be the rose, accepting our perfect human imperfections. No internal self-talk that is negative, no should've/would've/ could've. No judgements, blaming, or complaints. Just enjoy being simply the rose-as it is enough. Enough for you and me. Appreciate every roses' unique beauty!!

Tuesday Tunes - Rascal Flatts My Wish

2009-02-17T17:52:00.001-05:00

Today's Tuesday Tune is from, you guessed it, Rascal Flatts. Since seeing them last week, I was reminded about the heartfelt, honest lyrics of most of their songs. Here's a very special one--a song that everyone should download to their IPOD when you need a pick me up - or a pick me up for a friend.

My Wish by Rascal Flatts

I hope that the days come easy and the moments pass slow,
And each road leads you where you want to go,
And if you're faced with a choice, and you have to choose,
I hope you choose the one that means the most to you.
And if one door opens to another door closed,I hope you keep on walkin' till you find the window.
If it's cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile.
But more than anything, more than anything,

My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.

I hope you never look back, but ya never forget,
All the ones who love you, in the place you left,
I hope you always forgive, and you never regret,
And you help somebody every chance you get,
Oh, you find God's grace, in every mistake,
And you always give more than you take.

But more than anything, yeah, and more than anything,
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.

Rascal Flatts at Madison Square Garden

2009-02-14T11:16:00.005-05:00

Thursday night I went into the city with my friend and co-worker Teresa to see Rascal Flatts at Madison Square Garden. We had a blast, starting off with dinner at an Irish Pub, the Molly Wee. Then onto the show. Rascal Flatts really entertained and brought the audience in so you didn't feel like you were in a huge arena. It was the first time I saw them, won't be the last!

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Billy and I are going to an out-of-the-way restaurant, with none of the hyped-up Valentine's Day hoopla, to relax and have a quiet night.

More pics from CHA

2009-02-11T19:55:00.003-05:00

Here is a photo of my house piece from the Ranger designer challenge--House of Rock. It was a lot of fun to create a house using Claudine's Studio line of products. I stamped the Sticky-Back Canvas with a music sheet stamp to create the background. I painted Memory Frames with Studio paints (love the creamy coverage the paint gives) that were filled with concert ticket stubs, stamped instruments, and lyrics to songs from the concerts. The roof and picket fence were painted as well --what are they made out of--guitar picks. I really enjoyed making this project, and love working with Claudine's products.

Tuesday Tune - Taxman

2009-02-10T20:14:00.003-05:00

I'm in the midst of my very least favorite thing to do - income taxes! I would rather clean 10 bathrooms than do our taxes. So, appropriately so, here is Taxman written by Stevie Ray Vaughn and George Harrison:

Let me tell you how it will be
There's one for you, nineteen for me' cause i'm the taxman
Yeah, i'm the taxman
Should five percent appear too small
Be thankful i don't take it all' cause i'm the taxman
Yeah, i'm the taxman

If you drive a car, i'll tax the street
If you try to sit, i'll tax your seat
If you get too cold, i'll tax the heat
If you try to walk, i'll tax your feet

Don't ask me what i want it for
If you don't want to pay some more 'cause i'm the taxman
Yeah, i'm the taxman
Now my advice for those who die
Declare the pennies on your eyes' cause i'm the taxman
Yeah, i'm the taxman

Catching up at CHA

2009-02-07T15:44:00.004-05:00

The best part of going to CHA is catching up with friends and colleagues in person, rather than just online, since the event draws people from all over the world! Here are pics with Jenny Doh from Stampington, as well as Bernie Berlin and Angela Cartwright, who both took part in our designer challenge.

Ranger new products at CHA

2009-02-05T18:36:00.000-05:00

The Pink Donut asked us to do a new product video at CHA. Here I am showing Ranger's new products -- albeit in not the greatest or most flattering lighting or angle (at least that's my excuse)!

Girls Night Out at CHA

2009-02-04T18:46:00.001-05:00

At every CHA Show, we plan a Girls Night out. This show was no exception, and this evening was a memorable one. We started out with some shopping (of course) at The Art Bar. A great little arts and crafts store tucked away in the bottom floor of a quaint and ornate (architecturally) building dedicated to art and galleries. Picture 13, yes 13 women descending upon this little shop. We had a blast, and most all of us walked away with a bag full of stuff for art-making! Then we went to a little cafe across the walkway called the Gypsy's Den for a quick bite, and ended up being entertained by various bands who were competing in a contest, including Jackie taking center stage helping out one of the bands - shhhh . . . what happens in California stays in California!

Tuesday Tunes-All Night Long

2009-02-03T18:24:00.000-05:00

Thought this song was appropriate as you will see if you "tune in" tomorrow to read my post about Girls Night Out at CHA! Just a teaser for today . . .

All Night Long by Joe Walsh

We get up early and we work all day.
We put our time in 'cause we like to stay up
All night long. All night long.
We keep on grinnin' 'til the weekend comes.
Just a pinch between your cheek and gums.
All night long. All night long.

Start in the morning and get the job done.
Take care of business and we have some fun.
All night long. All night long.
We like a long neck and a good old song.
Turn it up and then we'll sing along. Sing along.
Oh, we're stayin' up all night long.
All night long.All night long.
All night long.All night long.

Classes at CHA

2009-02-02T18:43:00.001-05:00

Here are some pics from CHA classes I helped out in. Ranger actually sponsored 4 classes, two with Tim Holtz, one with Suze Weinberg and one with Claudine Hellmuth. I only have pictures here from Suze's and Claudine's classes, as I wasn't in Tim's classes - sorry! See how glam Claudine and Jackie look after Jackie's make up on the two of them (a career of Jackie's previous to Ranger)!!

CHA pics

2009-02-01T18:07:00.004-05:00

A quick post before Superbowl kickoff. A few pics getting ready for the Show. Here's Patti and Debbie setting up displays on day 1 of booth set up. Michelle is unloading signage and making sure that it all arrived safely. It takes 2 full days to set up the booth after months of preparation!

Highlights from CHA

2009-01-31T15:31:00.003-05:00

We got home from CHA early Thursday night. And of course, as usual, I end up getting sick again . . . it never fails. It's as if my body knows it's home, and can collapse in the comfort of my own bed, sneezing and coughing! Anyway, you all don't care about that, you want info and pics from the Show! I'll post a bit over the next few entries.

Here's the Designer Challenge showcase - with Claudine Hellmuth Studio products! The challenge was this -invite 25 designers to participate . . . with nothing more than a paper mache rectangle, a piece of chipboard and Claudine's paints, mediums, brushes, and Sticky Back Canvas and create a house! Wala, look at the results - soooo cool, so many interpretations, so many styles. It was like Christmas opening up each and every box when they arrived at Ranger before the show, but the statement made in seeing them all displayed at CHA was spectacular. Okay, back to bed with a box of tissues and a cup of tea til next post . . .

Time for appreciation

2009-01-22T06:45:00.006-05:00

Whew, another show preparation timeline is winding down - we are on our way to Anaheim tomorrow morning for CHA! I just wanted to say how blessed I am to work with a wonderful group of women who put their heart into all the work, sweat (and fun) each and every day at Ranger. I'm so fortunate to work with them and also to call them my friends. Here's to Michelle, Debbie and Patti, who all share their unique talents, perspectives and gifts authentically - making this crazy world a brighter place!

Tuesday Tunes

2009-01-20T19:46:00.000-05:00

Today's Tuesday's Tunes is about making the most of this one life we have this round! From Jason Aldean's Relentless album in 2008:

"Not Every Man Lives" by Jason Aldean

Have you ever skipped a stone across the water
Have you ever hitched a free ride on a train
Have you ever climbed up on a water tower
To write a name
The truth is, every man dies, not every man lives

Have you ever loved someone that you would die for
Have you ever walked too far out on a limb
Have you ever chased a dream too high to reach for
And pulled it in
Truth is every man dies, but not every man lives

I wanna paint outside the lines
Run the red lights in my mind
Take everything one lifetime has to give
I wanna stand inside a fire
Walk blind-folded on a wire
Every man dies, but not every man lives

Have you ever thought about how fast time passes
Ever thought about what you would leave behind
Ever stood up for something you believed in
And drawn a line
Truth is every man dies, but not every man lives.

Getting ready for CHA

2009-01-19T19:31:00.003-05:00

Working hard on finishing projects for CHA! Michelle, Patti and Debbie are working hard creating samples for our booth. It's been a crazy couple of months working on new products and all the support efforts that go behind bringing out new products. All will be unveiled next Sunday in Anaheim!

Tagged again - for addictions

2009-01-15T20:43:00.003-05:00

My good friend and co-worker Michelle Renee Bernard tagged me to list 5 of my addictions earlier this week. I had to think about it because it's tough to just list 5! Here we go:

1. Food - cheese and chocolate - in particular, Cheez-Its and Lindt Milk Chocolate Truffles!

2. Catalog, Online and tv shopping - I love shopping, but don't have a lot of time to travel to different stores, soooo I indulge anytime I have a few minutes to spare, very convenient. I love it because I can relax, sip a cup of tea, do other stuff at home and shop at the same time. Favorite stores lately: Coldwater Creek, Eddie Bauer and QVC - yup I admit it, I love QVC - I've bought everything from gym equipment to hairspray to clothes, handbags and shoes.

3. Antiquing - any form - shops, flea markets, garage sales, mom's house. Especially mom's house because I'm fortunate enough to have a lot of family heirlooms that mean the world to me.

4. Music - can't live without it -- could live without tv, but never without music! My IPOD and Bose are indispensable -- my long daily commute is only made palatable because I can listen to music!

5. Old movies - musicals, comedies, suspense/drama, love stories, whodunit, even war movies -- I appreciate them all. I'm a tough critic though, always rating the production, sets, cinematography, directing, acting, costumes, etc. Favorites: any Gene Kelly or Fred Astaire musical, Alfred Hitchcock movies, anything with Cary Grant or Audrey Hepburn!

Hmmm, who to tag . . . have to think on it further.

Tuesday tunes - I Wish You Peace

2009-01-13T23:30:00.000-05:00

Very stressed out right now getting ready for CHA as the booth ships on Friday. So all of us are running around doing 15 things at once! This song has wonderful lyrics for remembering to slow down, and no matter what is going on in your life that is stressing you--little challenges or immense ones, we can have peace within ourselves!

I Wish You Peace by Bernie Leadon

I wish you peace when the cold winds blow
Warmed by the fire's glow
I wish you comfort in the, the lonely time
And arms to hold you when you ache inside
I wish you hope when things are going bad
Kind words when times are sad
I wish you shelter from the, the raging wind
Cooling waters at the fever's end
I wish you peace when times are hard
The light to guide you through the dark
And when storms are high and your, your dreams are low
I wish you the strength to let love grow on,
I wish you the strength to let love flow,
I wish you peace when times are hard
A light to guide you through the dark
And when storms are high and your, you dreams are low
I wish you the strength to let let grown on,
I wish you the strength to let love flow,
I wish you the strength to let love glow on I
I wish you the strength to let love go on.

Sammy . . . er . . . Garfield

2009-01-12T21:23:00.003-05:00

Cats are amazing . . . just like us when the weather is bad, they like to hunker down and get warm and comfy. Even cats that have never actually dealt with outside weather, having lived their entire lives inside their house! Sammy has a remarkable talent to bury herself under blankets and somehow completely cover herself. She just looks like a big lump in the blankie on the couch. Like Garfield, the cartoon character. That's Sammy in the middle of the picture all wrapped up - she does all by herself! And there is no rousing her in this state, she's settled in for a long winter's nap! I'm a bit jealous ...

Winter wonderland

2009-01-11T17:20:00.004-05:00

We had a storm over the weekend that left a couple inches of snow and ice as well. It was nice to be at home, cozy and warm. Though I did brave the snow squall Saturday night to meet my friend Karen for dinner at Mia Sorella - wonderful southern Italian cuisine. I spent the day Sunday putting the finishing touches on a project for CHA. All in all, an indulgent, relaxing weekend! So needed after weeks and weeks of jam-packed weekends.

Tuesday Tunes - Simple Man

2009-01-06T19:04:00.002-05:00

Lynyrd Skynyrd is probably best known by most for 'Freebird' and 'Sweet Home Alabama'. But my favorite song by them is 'Simple Man' for the incredible lyrics about leading a simple, honest, and satisfied life--something maybe we all should slow down and think about achieving, hmmm, maybe we already have! Here it is:

Simple Man
(Gary Rossington - Ronnie VanZant)

Mama told me when I was young
Come sit beside me, my only son
And listen closely to what I say.
And if you do thisIt will help you some sunny day.

Take your time... don't live too fast,
Troubles will come and they will pass.
Go find a woman and you'll find love.
And don't forget son, there is someone up above.

Chorus:
And be a simple kind of man.
Be something you love and understand.
Be a simple kind of man.
Won't you do this for me son, if you can?

Forget your lust for the rich man's gold
All that you need is in your soul.
And you can do this if you try.
All that I want for you my son,
Is to be satisfied.

(chorus)

Boy, don't you worry... you'll find yourself.
Follow you heart and nothing else.
And you can do this if you try.
All I want for you my son, is to be satisfied.

(chorus)

More art weekend pics

2009-01-05T21:16:00.004-05:00

Linda came up with a brilliant idea to take an old crayon holder, and transform it into a special card holder. Each of us decorated, distressed, painted, punched, etc. a playing card and added it to a slot in the holder. Linda will decorate the holder and wala-a nice memory piece for a fun weekend with friends! Love this picture - everyone is truly happy and smiling from ear to ear! (left to right-Teresa, Debbie, Linda, Jackie, Michelle and Patti!

Girls Weekend

2009-01-04T21:58:00.005-05:00

A bunch of us from Ranger and my friend Linda who helps out at CHA and doing art projects got together at Linda's house for a slumber party of art, great food, wine and beer and fun. Here are some pics - Michelle thank goodness, was fabulous at keeping a roaring fire in the fireplace on a cold winter's night, our consumption evidence, the girls relaxing (Michelle, Teresa, Patti, Linda, Debbie and Jackie), and Linda's adorable puppies, also relaxing! More pics tomorrow . . .

On Holiday

2009-01-02T22:39:00.004-05:00

It's been nice to have two long weekends in a row to spend with my husband Billy, family and friends. It will be tough to go back to work on Monday for five full days-lol! Here's a photo of Billy and I on Christmas at my parents' house. We've gone from house to house and gathering to gathering in the past two weeks, it was so nice just to have a quiet dinner at home together this evening. We took down the Christmas tree and Bailey was really bummed. I wish we could keep the tree up just for him all year!

New Year, new inspirations

2009-01-01T07:40:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year everyone! To start the new year off right, I recommend signing up for Notes from the Universe created by Mike Dooley. It's a wonderful email you can get each day to remind you of what's really important, you! Here's an excerpt:

Dearest Bonnie, I was about to wish that your every dream for 2009 come true. That you find yourself surrounded by friends, laughter, and good times. I almost wished that your every cup runneth over financially, romantically, spiritually, and creatively. That good health be your faithful companion, peace your guarded ally, and love your perpetual guide.

So check it out and see if you don't enjoy the daily inspiration too!

Tuesday Tunes - Get Over It

2008-12-30T19:30:00.000-05:00

In the last few days of December, it's time to take stock of the year, and what I want to work on for 2009. This song has been in my head lately and I think it's appropriate to share it for this week's Tuesday Tune. It seems the world has become so accustomed to blaming others and wallowing in self-pity because it's the easy road, an excuse not to move forward or take a chance or take responsibility -- myself included!! So, for 2009, I'm going to work on not whining, not blaming others, taking responsiblity for my own actions, and not enabling others who need to be moving on their own path. Here's to a Happy healthy, and independent New Year!

Get Over It by the Eagles

I turn on the tube and what do I see
A whole lotta people cryin' 'don't blame me'
They point their crooked little fingers at everybody else
Spend all their time feelin' sorry for themselves
Victim of this, victim of that
Your momma's too thin; your daddy's too fat
Get over it. Get over it.
All this whinin' and cryin' and pitchin' a fit
Get over it, get over it.

You say you haven't been the same since you had your little crash
But you might feel better if I gave you some cash
The more I think about it, old billy was right
Let's kill all the lawyers, kill 'em tonight
You don't want to work, you want to live like a king
But the big, bad world doesn't owe you a thing
Get over it. Get over it.
If you don't want to play, then you might as well split
Get over it, get over it.

It's like going to confession every time I hear you speak
You're makin' the most of your losin' streak
Some call it sick, but I call it weak
You drag it around like a ball and chain
You wallow in the guilt; you wallow in the pain
You wave it like a flag, you wear it like a crown
Got your mind in the gutter, bringin' everybody down
Complain about the present and blame it on the past
I'd like to find your inner child and kick it's little ass
Get over it. Get over it.
All this bitchin' and moanin' and pitchin' a fit
Get over it, get over it.Get over it. Get over it.
It's gotta stop sometime, so why don't you quit
Get over it, get over it.

Christmas smiles

2008-12-29T20:34:00.005-05:00

Here's a photo from Christmas Day spent with family. Pictured here are Mom, Dad, and Gary, all in their holiday red shirts! Gone are the days of lots of toys for my nieces and nephews as my youngest nephew is now 22 and a college senior. But I must admit, that the smile on my 80 year-old Dad's face when he opened up his much-anticipated ipod was just as great a sight!

Tuesday Tunes - Merry Little Christmas

2008-12-23T20:25:00.002-05:00

I can't believe Christmas is less than 2 days away! For this Tuesday Tune, I wish you a wonderful Christmas with lots of love, friends and family surrounding you wherever you find yourself this year.

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas - immortalized by Judy Garland in 1943

Have yourself a merry little Christmas,
Let your heart be light
From now on,
our troubles will be out of sight
Have yourself a merry little Christmas,
Make the Yule-tide gay,
From now on,
our troubles will be miles away.
Here we are as in olden days,
Happy golden days of yore.
Faithful friends who are dear to us
Gather near to us once more.
Through the years
We all will be together,
If the Fates allow
Hang a shining star upon the highest bough.
And have yourself A merry little Christmas now.