WOYWW - 154

Well, here it is.  A total mess.  Really, how can one person make such a mess? 

As you can see, it isn't Wednesday anymore.  I don't know where the week went, but it went.  I'm working on a birthday party for my husband and also a get together with my buddy Brenda and a birthday card for my friend Cathy, which will be given at our girls crafting day... And that is what the mess is all about.  I did finish her card, and I'll share it next week. Cathy may check out my blog and I don't want her to see the card until her party.  Check out the other desks at WOYWW - Julia from Stamping Ground hosts us each week.  There are some amazing folks there.  You can check it out here. 

I have some new dies.  I haven't had much of a chance to play with them, but I did want to try adding silver to the tea pot and cup.  Not perfect yet, but I'll keep working on it.  This is what I have so far...

The doilies are new too.  I keep saying I have enough doilies and then....well, I find another one or two.  I am addicted.  Is there a cure?  I hope not. 

I am hoping to begin working on my daughter and son-in-law's wedding card.  I want it to be extra special and I've been gathering embellishments for a few months.  I'll share it after her wedding.  If I tell her not to look at my blog page, I'm sure she'll grab a sneak peek...

For those who don't know, our birds have flown away.  I was able to get a photo of one of them after 3 days of freedom.  Isn't he beautiful?

So....here's a digital page I put together,  keep in mind....I'm not so good at digital, but I'm learning...

One more photo.....I took this today... I absolutely love these flowers.  This year the Rhododendron is beautiful.....

and more......

For now....it's off I go. Have a wonderful week.
Glitter Grammy.....AKA:  Mary

Sympathy-Pixie Challenge-Birds and Things

I too often am starting with this.....

My friend Mary Jane lost her brother this week.  Sadly, for her, this has happened twice in as many months.  Life just isn't fair sometimes and this is definitely one of those times.  To Mary Jane and her family, I express my deepest sympathy. 

I want to thank everyone for the sweet comments about our Blue Jays.  May 11th, they decided it was time to leave the nest.  Not without a bit of sadness.  Jay 1, the oldest, decided to give flying a go on May 10th.  I must say, with great sadness, he has not survived.  We aren't sure what happened, we do know that a great deal of squawking was heard .  We believe the owl that lives a short distance away saw Jay 1 attempting to fly.  We think maybe he swooped down and picked up Jay 1.  What was interesting not only the Jays, but several other birds joined in the fight to get the baby back.  We believe the owl dropped Jay 1 and he did not survive. 

The commotion of May 10th, upset the remaining babies and they and their parents all were very unsettled throughout the night.  With all the excitement from the night before, I thought it just might be wise to video the babies, maybe for the last time.  As it turns out....it was. 

I apologize for the poor quality.  I didn't want to be very visible as they were still excited about the happenings from the day before.    I'd like to say, I'm so happy that Momma Jay decided to come back this year.  Watching the babies has been such fun. 

So, now on to what our day was like.  About 2 hours after I'd taken the video, I heard my husband yelling, come quick.  Of course I thought the worse and then saw that all 4 birds were now on the ground and he was trying to keep  an eye on all of them.  It was kind of like herding cats.... 

This is the last shot of them in the nest.

It was amazing that the mom and dad were not yelling at either of us, I think they may have been enjoying our human effort to keep their babies together.  I thought to grab my camera as I was leaving to see what all the commotion was about.  This is what I saw.....

Of course, in a moment of panic..... I only saw 2 of them.  Richard told me to go in the garage, he'd seen one in a mad rush in that direction.  I found it, and put it on the lawn.  But where was number 4?  As we looked for number 4, we lost sight of numbers 1 through 3.  I knew this was not going to be fun!  Richard saw all four of them heading for the back yard fence and saw 3 of them scooting between the slats.  I ran for the deck, to lock the dogs inside.  Glad I did, now there was one on the deck....

Ok....we knew where 3 were....where was number 4?  I think it must be the youngest, or maybe not the brightest.....we found it trying to figure out how the others had made it into the back yard.  Richard saved him and put him with the others. 

We spent the day running off stray cats, who had but one thought on their minds.  Oddly, our two porch strays didn't care about the babies, but one we've named Freddie the Freeloader was very interested.  No photo of him, I was too busy warning him of the dangers of messing with the babies. 
He actually shows signs of becoming a tame kitty, but for now, it's bird priority. 

My shot this morning was very bitter sweet.  Empty nest syndrome has hit home.  Since they've built in the exact same spot for 2 years....I'm hoping to see them back again next year.  Maybe I'll have streaming video (that's a hint kids.....My birthday is in August!)  If you want to learn more about the Stellar Jays....check them out Here  This site is WONDERFUL.  It's my go to bird site.  I also have a wonderful bird book that Paul gifted me. Thank you Paul)  I highly recommend it...  If you want to see beautiful birds and learn about what's living with you in your little bird world, check out:  National Geographic Field Guide to the Birrds of North America.  I have the 5th Edition. 

In addition to the birds, yesterday I needed to get some Banana Bread made for our swim group fund raising event.  Here's what I made: 

I guess from now on, my blog will be cards, flowers and food...... (sniff, sniff).  Speaking of flowers, this one had a butterfly visiting.....

I'm off for now.  But before I go....Happy Mother's Day to everyone.  I'm so very lucky to have the kids (that includes the spouses present and ex) and grand kids that are in my life.  They sure make life fun and very interesting. 

Again.....HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Love to All From Me to You!

Glitter Grammy

AKA: Mary

WOYWW 153

Not much going on here today.  I'm hoping to make up for my lazy streak this weekend.  Check out the desks of those who have been working very hard and have lots of creative projects to share.  Here.  Yesterday was card class at PSB....Note, I didn't put a thing away.  I've been admiring my new Memory Box and Die-namics dies that just happened to find away into my must have pile....See my pile is very tiny compared to all the new ones Karen has.....

If you haven't already....check them out before they are all in my stash :-)  I did manage to get creative with the 3-2-1 cake.  I was hungry for a chocolate snack and this is what I made.  3 points for  all of this.  I am loving playing with single serving cakes.  I think my buddy Carolyn can go one farther than me.  She's trying all kinds of flavors.  I'm kind of stuck on chocolate.  Doesn't this look yummy? 

I don't know which I like more, eating the cake or taking photos of it.  Ok....eating will always win.

Lots of interest in my little Stellar Jay Family.  They are getting so big.  It won't be long and they will have all flown away.  The nest is really crowded and the older ones are now flapping their wings and standing on the side of the nest.  Of course this causes much stress for me as I am sure they will be pushed out by the others. 

I thought I'd share what's on my husband's workdesk......He works so hard in the yard and it surely shows....Good Job Richard!

I tried uploading a video of the birdies.....well, for some reason it didn't work.  I'll try again later in the week. 

Have a most wonderful week, be sure to stop by Julia's blog to catch up on what everyone is up to. 

Hugs to all,
Mary
AKA Glitter Grammy

Can You Say FIELD TRIP?

Before I take everyone on a field trip, I want to express my deepest sympathy to Linn and Amy.  Linn's mom passed away on Saturday.  I want the kids to know, she'll be dancing on a cloud at the wedding.  Also one of my long time friends and volunteers at the Sheriff's Office passed.  Irene will be missed by all.  I made identical cards for both. 

Both ladies loved their children, loved their homes, both were excellent bakers.  I think they both would have enjoyed each other's company.  I used snippets for everything but the base.  The patterned paper is from My Mind's Eye.  I used a Sizzix Beaded Ribbon Embossing folder.  It's my newest and fast becoming a favorite.  Of course there is a Spellbinder die and the sentiment is from an old Stampin-Up set. 

Now.....on to the Field Trip......grab your jumpers and lets get moving.  Everybody in a line...let's get going.  Are you ready?

This is a photo I took from my front porch as I was leaving.  Spring in our yard is absolutely fabulous.  All the colors.  The tress are Dogwood and a fruitless plum.  The tree is a cedar, a bit too big to see the top!

Carolyn and I got to the shop first (nothing new there!)  We usually come early and leave early.  We were too early....PSB wasn't open yet!

My spot at the table and boy oh boy there are gifts waiting!



The first thing I did was see what was new and what I HAD to add to my collection.  Lots of new Memory Box dies too.... I've been saving my milk money for these items.....

More girls arriving and checking out the new items....

Look at the pretty display....Ohhhhhhh so many things that I need! 

Look how happy we are when we're playing on the paper playground.....

Leesa and I.  We're ready to settle down and work on the projects we brought.  Carolyn and I decided that we bring too much and finish too little.  Must be because we spend lots of time shopping, and chatting, and eating. 

I love, love, love how Karen displays all the pretties.....

Say hi to Pam.  She's busy making sure we all get our "must have's" .  Great job Pam. 

Just look at all the treasures........

This is my very favorite display.....Lots of yummy things to choose from. 

Remember when I showed you the goodies Karen gifted us.  This is a tray that we will make from those goodies.  Very pretty.....yes?  Thank you Karen

Here we are all hard at work....

And here she is.....the gal that makes this all possible.  Everyone.....meet Karen!  I don't think many of us know the work that goes into these crops.  Especially this one and the Christmas crop.  Deb, Rachiel, Shell and Pam are her little helpers.  Good job girls! 

This is just one of the yummy snacks we had.  Karen had breakfast rolls and coffee ready when we arrived.  Then cookies to snack on.  Dinner was wonderful.  Landon (her son) barbecued ribs and we had roast beef and salads and bread and fruit....of course there are no photos of this, as I was busy loading my plate and forgot to take them....bad me! 

And then.....oh yes there were desserts!  Of course Carolyn, Leesa and I did not partake as we are on Weight Watchers....and if you believe that, I have some swamp land to sell you....we're being good the rest of the week...

A good time was to be had by all, as my childhood social section of the local newspaper would print.  Again, thanks to everyone at Paradise Scrapbook Boutique who made this day so special.  It's always a fun time and Karen really knows how to celebrate National Scrapbook Day!

I can't forget a quick shot of the babies.  Aren't the two that are lined up too cute.  One peeking over the other.  We are on Crow watch today.  We caught 3 of the filthy "B's" trying to raid a Robin's nest.  We were lucky to scar them off.  They better leave my babies alone!

I'll be linking to Pixie's Craft Workshop.  My cards were snippets, with the exception of the white base.  Check out her challenge and play along....it's fun and you meet lots of interesting folks on the playground.

I'll post a movie later this week.  For now....it's off to start my day....

Hugs to all,
Mary
AKA:  Mary Mac, Glitter Grammy

Paradise Scrapbook Boutique - May Class

I almost forgot to post the pictures for the May card class at Paradise Scrapbook Boutique.   A reminder my classes will now be the 2nd Tuesday of every month.  So....Tuesday - May 8th, 1 PM.  I was planning this Christmas card for Christmas in July, but, I'll be in the mid-west so, I'll not be teaching in July.  I wanted everyone to get an early start on Holiday cards.  This one is my favorite easel card.  I love the white birthday card, I think you'll enjoy making it.  It's pretty, easy, flat and will keep your costs down when sending it.  Call Karen if you are interested.  I hope to see you on the 8th. 

We have two dogs.  I am never quite sure which one left a mess.  When I ask, I get the same look every time....and I think they want me to believe a strange dog is breaking in....Well, today I found out who has been getting into the trash.  What a little stinker.....



Off I go.  Saturday will be a big day at PSB.  A great celebration honoring National Scrapbook Month.....It will be such fun spending the day with so many talented women. 

Wishing you a wonderfully crafty week,
Mary AKA:  Glitter Grammy

Home Again

Hello and Happy Wednesday, which of course means that Julia is giving us all the opportunity to show our work space.  If you have a minute, hop on over to see what everyone has been up to.  Check out WOYWW-152, and keep in mind the ATC exchange is coming up soon.  I need to let Julia know I'll be playing along.  I'm thinking I can also use this card in Di's Pixie's Crafty Snippet Challenge.  The purple paper pieces aren't snippets, but pretty much everything else was made from scraps of silver and white.  The heart was also one I've had left over from a package I purchased years ago.  I'll be more of a purist next time...I promise. 

My daughter asked if I'd make Thank You cards for those special people who are providing services.  Boy she didn't have to ask twice.  Yesterday, on  my 4 hour flight home, I was building this card mentally, you know, no sharp objects on the plane....that's really too bad too, as I used to get lots done while flying, especially on the 14 hour flights, now I write on my Ipad and dream about making cards.  So, you can now see my dream realized.  The paper I've been hoarding since 1997.  It's from Paper Pizazz and is called Hydrangeas.  The flower and the flourish are Memory Box, the sentiment is Hero Arts, the inside of the flower is Perfect Pearls.  The inside of the card has a Martha border.  So, there you have it. 

Those who follow my blog know I flew to Chicago for my daughter's shower and to see my grandson perform.  I've attached a few photos from the shower, I just noticed, I'm in none of them.  I guess when you're taking photos, you not only aren't in them, you are only taking photos from one side of the room, so none of my relatives are shown....well, one very cute little girl is my great niece.  So here we go, do you have your coffee and are you sitting in a comfy chair? 

Starting with one of the gifts I gave Amy....it's a purse, big enough for two wine glasses and a bottle of wine.  It was made by a very sweet young lady, who is working her way through college making this and many other items. Amy's soon to be hubby is a surveyor, so maps are a big part of his life.  Rachiel made this using two maps, one from the area they live and the other from Florida, where they love to vacation.  I wish I had a better photo, but if you are at all interested in a special purse, let me know and I'll put you in touch with Rachiel. 

Since Amy and Linn will have the wine, they also now have two very nice beach towels and a beach blanket. 

Money and Elephant mugs were part of the travel theme of this shower.  These will go well with the Keurig coffee maker my friend Carolyn gave her as a shower/wedding gift.  It was taken to the first shower, so no photo here. 

I had to add this one, see the little girl in the bottom right.  That's Haley, my great niece, she was very helpful throughout the shower.  Whenever "adult" gifts were opened, we'd have Haley turn around.  She was sooooo cute and had as much fun as we had watching her. 

The destination gift my niece and my great niece gave is in this photo.  Paula had to find a gift that represented the Galapagos Islands and Maddy needed to represent the Netherlands.  Can you say turtles and tulips....great idea.  The story that went along with the turtle was precious.  Paula was gifted the turtle from a neighbor who was moving and downsizing.  The turtle had been given to her as a wedding gift 57 years earlier.  What a great gift and a great story. 

The food was great, Deb did an excellent job hosting....The cake was wonderful, and I'm glad we didn't take home the remaining pieces, because I have no self control when it comes to cake. 

I guess I forgot to add a photo of my desk.  Keep in mind, it doesn't always look this bad, sometimes it is much worse!

And now for us bird lovers.  I've been gone a week and I couldn't believe how much the little ones have grown.  Mom and Dad are kept quite busy bringing food for them. 

And, here are two more photos of the kids.....

Off I go for now.  It's bill paying time....my favorite time of the month.  I guess I should be happy that I have the money to pay bills....but I'd rather use it for craft supplies, cause you know I have very few. 

I'm hoping to post more this week.  Saturday Paradise Scrapbook Boutique will be celebrating National Scrapbook Day.  I'll be there playing with all my craft friends. 

Have a great week and Hugs to all,
Mary AKA: Glitter Grammy