Perfect Packaging

While Megan loves soaking in the sun (as you can see from the photo Nate took while they were in Hawaii a couple of months ago), she gets more excited about winter and the cold than anyone I know! Most of us grimace at the first snowfall, and Megan gets all giddy!

I felt like this was the perfect packaging for Megan's birthday gift. I’ve just been waiting for the perfect time to post it, and given all the snow we’ve had recently, it’s time!

Congratulations, Janet!

It’s been a few days now since Janet Wakeland achieved her one-million milestone, but as I told her over the phone, I like to call after the big achievement so I can extend the celebration…kind of like the delayed birthday card (no worries...this card was sent right away!) that makes you feel loved and celebrated for more days than just your birthday.

Well, I hope Janet feels loved and appreciated for her dedication to Stampin’ Up! and her business. Janet works her business well and adapts when changes need to be made—one of the things I admire about her and what’s made her accomplishment so noteworthy. I’m excited to celebrate Janet’s huge milestone in person when she comes to Utah in March. Until then, hugs and congratulations, Janet! 

Kicking My Feet Up in Kauai

We planned this trip over a year ago, and I had hoped to do the usual sightseeing and basking in the sun on the beach. Instead, I really just kicked my feet up in the condo. My RA has been acting up—more about that in a blog post soon—and although I wished the warmer and humid weather would do me some good (it didn’t!), I figured I could take it easy in Hawaii with family as easily as at home.

We flew with the Browns to Honolulu for a couple of days to see friends from our mission, took the kids to a few of our favorite food places (because vacations for the Gardners is all about the food…well a lot about food!), and then headed over to Kauai for a week.

Aside from an herbal tea farm tour, where I got bit in my mouth by a centipede…funny story (thank goodness for mulberry leaves!), one trip to the beach, and a couple of shorter sits by the pool, Sterling and I pretty much stayed in the condo and enjoyed the view and warm breeze from the lanai.

We were also thrilled to keep Owen while Shalae and Jon and their three older kids went to the beach, the pool, and tubing. It was a win-win. Most evenings, we all ventured out for dinner to enjoy the Hawaiian hospitality, yummy food, and charming atmosphere.

It may not have been the trip I imagined, but it was an enjoyable and relaxing vacation. I loved being with family, and it was Hawaii—warm and beautiful—and one of my favorite places!

Confetti (and money) Shooter

Wow, it’s been a long time since I posted. How time flies!

For Zach’s birthday, I wanted something fun and celebratory, since his birthday is so close to the first of the year, and he's our only January baby...and a pretty darned cute and grown up one! I think this packaging fit the bill (we always give money) nicely…pun intended!

As you can see from the photos, a large, trimmed balloon secured to a toilet paper roll shoots the gift and confetti out nicely…as long as you don’t tie the tulle too tightly. Imagine the possibilities!

The Card Never Sent

I mentioned last post that we didn't send Christmas cards, but I want to share the "master card" that wasn't duplicated as planned because I think the message is appropriate for the season and all year long. Happy New Year!