Worth the Extra Drive

We had several little things on our “Kanab list”, so we decided to make a quick trip to southern Utah. And since Sara and Sean were at Lake Powell with their kids (and a few of their kids’ friends), we decided to drive the extra hour and enjoy a couple of days with them, relaxing in the sun.

My brother and sister-in-law were also on the lake with most of their family, so we spent an afternoon with them too. Anyone who wanted to try surfing had the chance, and it was fun to cheer everyone on. By the way, I had no desire to surf. My luck behind a boat ran out years ago, so I stick to cheering!

It was a short trip, but worth the extra drive!

A New You

For several years Brick Canvas has been part of a women’s retreat called A New You, which is organized by the Barbara Barrington Jones Foundation. Women come from all over to attend inspiring devotionals, classes on poise, makeup, health, etc., and as well as evening events and a concert. They enjoy a massage and get their hair done at Sage Leaf Salon and Spa, and there’s also time set aside for paper crafting.

This was the first year I was in town for the event, so I chose to represent Stampin’ Up! and teach about Paper Pumpkin and stamp with about 80 women over the course of two days. I loved being able to sit and visit with these women and to hear their stories and to share my story when asked. We all have a story (many!) to tell, and I wish I could sit with more of you and hear your stories. In the meantime, I feel blessed to have been a part of A New You and to be a small part of your life.

Maybe you could share part of your story with us—a part of your life (even just a few lines) that might inspire all of us today.

Hugs!

Larsen Reunion Revived

It’s been a long time since we’ve had a Larsen reunion, and Mom Heather would have been pleased. We always looked forward to seeing her and her sisters together, laughing and making us laugh! Her oldest sister has passed, and Kelli couldn’t make it, but Lynni represented the Larsen girls well!

The weather was wonderful, with only one evening of rain, and there were plenty of things to do. King’s Creek is our favorite group camping site, and just being there brought back some sweet memories of past reunions.

The thing I enjoyed most was watching all the cousins, who didn’t know each other at all, get to know one another and play so well together. We were sad that Vonna and her family weren’t able to make it at the last minute, but it was a happy reunion anyway, and we’re already planning next year’s!

Cute Baby Cards

It’s been a busy week, but as I look back, there’s not a whole lot worth blogging about, so I’ll share a couple of cute cards that I’m sending to congratulate parents of new babies. Enjoy!

Brandy’s Warm Welcome

Brandy and Doug received a warm welcome as they arrived at the home office to celebrate Brandy’s million-dollar milestone. When asked if she wanted to say a few words to the crowd, Brandy was quick to thank all Stampin’ Up! employees for their part in her success and the success of all demonstrators. I think everyone felt appreciated, and I hope Brandy and Doug especially felt it during their stay here.

After working with Kathy to design a special stamp set (to be unveiled sometime in the distant future!), Brandy’s wish was to spend time with some of our wonderful demonstrator support staff.

Then, also at Brandy’s request, the afternoon was spent in our home, with her main goal of shooting a video with Sara and me to use in telling her Stampin’ Up! story and sharing how the company has blessed all our lives. It was a fun and casual chat together.

We enjoyed lunch and visiting as well as stamping and assembling the Oh, Happy Day kit before Brandy and Doug were whisked off to have dinner with a couple of corporate team members and their wives.

Yesterday began with breakfast with Bonnie at the Grand America and then treatments for Brandy and Doug at the spa, and the day ended with a delicious dinner and delightful conversation. Sara, Sean, Sterling, and I all commented on how nice it was getting to know Brandy and Doug. We were honored to spend time with a humble and grateful demonstrator who has worked hard and had the support of an incredible husband and family. Congratulations Brandy on an amazing milestone!