Gratitude

As I take a break from making multiple thank you cards, I consider the word "gratitude".  Defined it means the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and return kindness.  Which actually is very fitting given the reason for the thank you cards.  Not only am I a craft addict, I'm also a volunteer member of a local outreach group for people who have lost someone to suicide.  The cards I am making are going to the sponsors of an upcoming event.  Because of their willingness to sponsor, the event will be free to the community.  The goal of the event is to spread awareness and hope on the difficult topics of mental illness and suicide.  So I want the cards to be special.  I felt like the sponsors not only deserve to be acknowledged for their generous gift, but shown appreciation and gratitude.  I didn't think a generic store bought thank you card would be fitting.  Instead, I retreated to my craft room (aka therapy room) and I created a special thank you card just for them.

And as I write this post, I ponder the fact that I need to practice "gratitude" more.  How often do we get so busy thinking about the things that we have to, that we should, or that we need to do that we forget about all of the things that we are thankful for?  Too often.  Life is busy.  It is stressful.  It is easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of trying to make a living and raising a family.  We are constantly trying to balance so many things.  But what kind of balance do we have when we are so focused on the chaos?  Not a lot. 
Studies show that people who practice gratitude regularly, find a shift in their own attitude.  They gain a new perspective and have a great sense of appreciation for the things around them.  Who doesn't need that?  So I challenge you to take a few minutes every day to think of what you are thankful for.  It may seem silly at first, but after some practice, I bet it will become easier and easier to do.  Think of what would happen if everyone spent a few minutes every day showing appreciation and returning kindness to others.

Until next time,
Happy Crafting!
-AJ

May 2018 Flavor of the Month Kit from Scrapping for Less

Have you ever been so behind on something and the more you think about needing to catch up, the more stressed you get?  Well that is how I have been with my card kits.  It may or may not have to do with the fact that I have joined a couple more monthly kits which do make it hard to find the time to dig in and craft.  However, I have decided that the kits will be there and I just need to relax and get to them when I can.  I am doing a quick post to try to get caught up. 
This kit was May's kit from Scrapping for Less and the theme was Countryside.  If you go to their site, I believe there are still some kits available under the "past kits" tab. Here is a link: https://scrappingforless.com/
Here is a picture of the kit contents that I received with the banana split level.

And here are a handful of the cards I made from the kit.  I have to tell you that I have so much leftover that I could make a ton more cards....however, those other kits are calling me :) 

Like I've said before, I just love this card kit.  It gives you 4 small collections that include a stamp set, paper, sequins, extras, and an envelope.  There are also card sketches on their website that you can download.  The kits allow me to use materials that I may not have purchased otherwise.  It kind of challenges me to use stuff that is out of my comfort zone.  The kits are also great stash builders!

Until next time, Happy Crafting!

AJ