Most of us "paper crafters" are....hoarders. We talked alot about the definition of hoarding it on my trip last week and I guess I will be the first to step to the podium and admit it. You can admit it in the privacy of your own home.
"My name is Stephanie and I am a paper hoarder"
(this is where you say "Hi, Stephanie")
The thing is, when I come across a paper (okay, or felt, or buttons) that I really like (I would prefer to say LOVE) I buy it, in bulk, you know..just in case I want to use it...alot.
Working in the paper crafting/scrapbooking industry makes it a little tough when I like so many things from so many companies from years past when really, stores, manufactures' and designers would prefer that I "promote" the latest and greatest.
This is where I have gotten into a little bit of a pickle because I have soooo much stuff and I am such an "equal opportunity" paper and product lover that it was time to change my "roll" in the industry.
I truly feel that my skills help me to coordinate this, that & the other from all mediums, regardless of what release they are from, which manufacture produced them or even if it is paper (because I love felt...and canvas...and corrugated cardboard)
At the end of the day, if you have created something, from the heart..nothing else really matters.
Case in point.
I ran into an old friend at the beginning of this week. She was with her brother and sister-in-law and introduced them to me. She continued to tell me that he had VOLUNTEERED to head to Afghanistan for an entire year...and that he leaves tomorrow.
This where I inserted my own foot into my own mouth and repsonded "You Knucklehead!" Here I had just been told that this man, with a family, had selflessly vounteered to return to a country ten feet deep into war..
and I called him a "knucklehead"
Luckily, our conversation diverted onto the subject of chocolate chip cookies and I did manage to hear that he mentioned that he LOVED cookies (even though all I could think of was "What the h#*! was I thinking???)
but then I really did start thinking...and baking!
Fast forward to last night where I took a few of the neighborhood boys to meet a "Real Solider" and apologized and thanked him for serving our country and the boys presented him with a gallon sized can of chocolate chip cookies....embellished with paper that I had "collected" "loved" and "hoarded" just waiting for the perfect time to use it.
Such a thoughtful gift! Thanks to the soldier for serving our country!
Posted by: SusanC | November 18, 2010 at 07:35 AM
wOw!! how thoughtful and wonderful of you to support and send off a soldier!!
Posted by: Michelle | November 18, 2010 at 10:47 AM
What a neat gift. Love the paper. I'm a hoarder that way too.
Posted by: Deb J | November 18, 2010 at 11:01 AM
Ummm... you meant he selfLESSly volunteered, not selfishly, right?!! :)
If anyone is looking for an easy paper craft that takes minutes but makes a lifelong impression, try writing a few Christmas cards to soldiers and send them to this program that will distribute them to soldiers on their way to war at Christmastime.
http://projectrudolph.homestead.com/
Posted by: DnSmum | November 18, 2010 at 11:18 AM
YES!..that is exactly what I meant..thanks for the heads up..all corrected!
Posted by: s | November 18, 2010 at 11:55 AM
You are so thoughtful! What a way to show the "kids" what life in America is all about.
Posted by: Michelle | November 18, 2010 at 12:04 PM
Thanks for supporting the military. My husband was AF for 29 years (Chaplain)and if was a good life and ministry. He didn't have to go to a war torn country--but we continue to pray for those who do. And what a neat thing to do for some of the boys in the neighborhood, for them to learn and show respect too. Blessings
Posted by: Verona H | November 18, 2010 at 12:10 PM
Gorgeous Stephanie and your cookies were very much loved as well since they are delish.
Posted by: Patsy Olivas | November 18, 2010 at 01:47 PM
I'm happy you enjoyed your visit to PA. We had such a fun, relaxing day creating our projects (mine are now finished and awaiting the beginning of Dec). The Shucks are the best and make everyone feel so welcome in their store. I hope you're planning new projects (felt stitching maybe?) for a return visit. Just stay off those railroad tracks next time.
Posted by: Kim Littlejohn | November 18, 2010 at 04:12 PM
Hello. I am Jana and I am a paper hoarder. Great post!
Posted by: Jana | November 19, 2010 at 10:16 AM
Wow! Very cute project and a great reason to do it. And from one paper hoarder to another - I love that paper!
Posted by: heidig | November 20, 2010 at 04:55 AM