what a perfect challenge today on SCS! Oldies but goodies. This one is made even more special, because I am honoring my stamping mentor! A little background first! I bought this stamp, PSX's Hydrangea in 1996. I don't even know what I was thinking because I walked out of the stamp store (Great Impressions in Issaquah WA) with no ink and no paper. And as I recall, I used it once with some Crayola felt markers and then it sat in my desk drawer for 10 years!!!
I began my paper artist journey in July of 2006. In my SCS gallery is posted my first project , along with pages at the top of what is inside my pocketbook. Needing some advice, I stopped into my lss and into my life came Konnie. She gently, very gently listened to my questions and guided me as I was ready for the next step in stamping. I would go and just hang in the store 'round the project tables. I would ask her if I was considering a particular stamp, tell me ways I can use this stamp or that...I HAVE NEVER BEEN SORRY FOR ANY STAMPING RELATED PURCHASE. Konnie has been my biggest encourager.
And now for the tie-in with the Hydrangea. One Saturday, I took the stamp into the store and asked if she could show me how to use it. Now you have to understand, Saturdays were for in-store demos. Konnie made my stamp the whole demo. She created 8 different techniques for this one stamp and I was blown away with stamping. I never considered coloring, alcohol inks, micro beads, crayon resist, embossing, bleaching, brayering...to name a few. But she was always there when I was ready for the next phase.
So I dedicate my 'very first' card to her and will be mailing it today. Sad to say, our lss is closing its' doors in the next few weeks---victims of break-ins that have broken the spirit of the owners. I understand, but oh so sad. However, I am confident from this will come new beginnings, maybe in the art, maybe not...but I hope after a rest, Konnie will be up for playing with ink again...this time I'll set her a spot in my studio, let her use my stamps...I can hardly wait to see what she'll create!
Dear Konnie, I can never thank you enough for what you have given into my life! I love you, my friend!
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5 comments:
Aaawww, what a sweet, sweet story!!! There are tears in my eyes! I am saddened for the store closing but like you said, she will always have a special seat at your crafting table whenever she wants! This is a gorgeous card and I'm sure it will bring a tear to her eye as well! God Bless you Susan for sharing not only your talent, but your kind, heartfelt story! You are a dear!!
This is really super, Susan! I love this hydrangea image and wish I'd snagged it while it was still available. I remember how sad I was when my LSS closed and I miss it every day. I'm sure your mentor will love this card.
So nice to hear of your jouney to here Susan! what a good friend you are! This is a beautiful card - love the embossing and super colors!
What a touching story, and wonderful memory to share with us through this beautiful card!!
Susan - I absolutely love this card!!! It's gorgeous and what a wonderful *meaning* behind the purpose of this *beauty*!!!
I know your friend is gonna have a big smile on her face when she'll open her mail!!!
Sorry - I'm such a bad blogger... I just wanted you to know that I enjoy each and every fabulous creation of yours - even though I don't always stop by....!!!
Hugs
~Silke~
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