Holly Jolly MoJo

I have to say that it feels SO good to be doing some creative work in my crafty space again! I really think I needed it after almost a month of doing practically nothing! I head back to work tomorrow after more than a month off and let me tell you, I am NOT looking forward to that. But, it has to happen sometime and I need to start getting back into my normal routine. I sure did savor my day to myself today though! I spent the morning at Makena (Big Beach) after dropping Dean off at preschool and it was a beautiful morning. I took some time to just reflect and think about the events of the past few years. Being at Makena makes me feel really close to my Dad - that area of Maui was one of his favorite places on Earth. I was reminded that my Dad wanted nothing more in life than for his family to be happy and I determined that I am going to spend a little bit of time each day doing something that makes ME happy, whether that's going for a walk on the beach, stamping just for fun, curling up with a good book, or watching an old Magnum P.I. rerun - the best way I know to honor my Father's memory is to live a life of happiness and try to surround myself and my family with positive energy. So there you have it. I came home from the beach and I stamped the rest of the day - the laundry and the dishes could wait a bit longer! :-)

And ya know what? I think my MoJo is slowly starting to find it's way back. I didn't hate everything I created today, which is a HUGE improvement over last week when everything I touched looked like crap!! LOL. Of course, Julee's MoJo Monday sketch #164 probably helped a bit, as I started off with that.

I used Verve's new Merry Wishes and Holiday Phrases along with some fabulous DP from the North Pole Collection from Crate Paper I've been saving for months and couldn't wait to cut into! I'm so excited to finally be creating with these new Verve holiday sets! And now is a great time pick them up for yourself if you've been on the fence - through November 19 you can save 15% when you buy the entire Winter Collection (while supplies last)!!

Also, I continue to be amazed by the love and support that is pouring in from my blog readers and my stamping friends since my post about my Dad's passing - both in comments and e-mails as well as cards you've mailed. I wish I could reply individually to each of you to let you know just how much your kindness means to me, but things are still a bit crazy around here as we are trying to settle back into normal day to day life. But please know that each and every one of you who has offered condolences has touched my heart. Many Mahalos!