Saturday, January 5, 2019

Friends of Unity Blog Hop January 2019 ~ "New Year"

Happy Blessed New Year, friends!

Welcome to the 1st "Friends of Unity Blog Hop" of 2019!

 I have been so excited for todays blog post as our January cue was aptly named "New Year".  As soon as I read this months focus I knew I wanted to create regarding the upcoming new year, and not necessarily the celebration of New Years. This coming year is an especially exciting and sentimental one for me as I journey to 50.  I'm purposed on claiming encouraging affirmations over my life and am creating a series of tags, cards and card calendars in hopes to inspire others the same!

(If you've not seen my first series entitled "She Believed" I encourage you to follow this link. I do believe it will inspire and encourage you!)

One of the many things I love about Unity Stamp company is their diverse collection of sentiments. If you are unfamiliar with Unity Stamp Co. I encourage you to follow this link and browse their inventory. (This is not an affiliate link. I am just a very dedicated consumer!;)

Be sure to read all the way to the bottom to see how you can win some brand new Unity stamps!
This first series I created is entitled "Affirmations". I have been making foldable calendars for a few years, but this year I decided to simplify the design by making it an A2 card style. I plan to adopt this style for the coming years!

Each card calendar has an affirmation of truth that can be displayed all year long as a constant reminder for you to keep believing and pursuing. Another reason I chose the card style is for the recipient to write, on the inside, a letter (to themselves) of promises, affirmations, declarations, goals, dreams etc. that can be revisited throughout the year as encouragement. Or perhaps the giver could write a letter of encouragement to whom ever they gift the card calendar.
These are the cc's I made to send in some of my Christmas cards.

Many of you have seen these posted on my social media.

If viewing on your phone I encourage you to click each photo to get a more clean picture. :)

 
This next collection of cc's I made specifically for the blog. I absolutely love them all (including the 9 above) and pray they blessed who I gifted them to!

This first sentiment is from Anna Girl. Tulia Girl also has this sentiment in a different font and style. To me this Mother Teresa quote speaks of compassion, acceptance, and giving of ones self. I pray to be this daily!

 
This sentiment is from the Donna Downey sentiment set appropriately called "She." If you do not have this sentiment set I encourage you to put it on your wish list. It is empowering!

 
I must apologize for this specific sentiment stamped in blue is not from Unity. However, Unity does have this sentiment in a Phyllis Harris set called "Faith Looks Up". I have this set and am not certain why I didn't use it.


Next is a peak into a card series I created for the new year simply entitled "New". Have you ever put much thought into the word "new". Something of recent origin, having but lately come into, fresh or unused, other than the former. Think about it. And don't be afraid to start something new, adapt to something new, or even become someone new.

The moment I saw this incredible woman image, on a beautiful card Dawn made, I knew I had to have her. I just love her so very much. She is from the June 2014 KOM. She is unnamed. In this specific creation I call her Alise. The name means noble, and goes perfectly with her countenance. (To pronounce her name ~  begins with short a sound and the i has a long e sound)

I masked off her head, face and neck so that I could stamp the butterfly over her without covering her face. I have plans to mask a few so that part of the butterfly appears to be behind her. The butterfly is from the 2017 KOM.

(I have several of these in the works in different hair color, butterfly color etc.)




The next series I created is a tag series entitled "Beautifully Made". I believe the essence of beauty first begins on the inside. I love all of the unique and interesting qualities that come with individuality. Which is what draws me to the Angie Girls & Planner Gals. It is one of the MANY reasons I love the faceless beauties created for USC by Angie Blom. Another reason I love them is because they can be whomever you want them to be.

I've included photos of 4 completed tags in this series and a photo of several more images that will be a part of this series. I struggled with the design of the tags. I wanted them to be more eye catching with more layers. Although they did not turn out as I envisioned, I am pleased with the outcome. After completing the Planner Girl ATC's I placed on the front of the tags I wondered how they would look if I antiqued the edges to give it a vignette feel. I'd love your opinion.

The sentiment I am using on each of the tags is from a Tierra Jackson winter stamp set called "Unique". It is stamped on vellum then wrapped vertical around the tag and tapped to the back side. I must say that this sentiment is one of my absolute favorites. I encourage you to remember this and claim it!  (The word beautiful is from a Planner Gal set called "Be This".)

This first beauty is the "Be This" Planner Gal. I have named her Naomi. Which means pleasantness-friendly and considerate. Oh, how I love that. Isn't she beautiful!?



This next beautiful Planner Gal is from the "Loving Life" set. I have named her Ellie. Which means shinning light, or the most beautiful woman. I agree, she is quite beautiful.



This next unique beauty is from the set "Be This". She is named Adira. Which means strong. I imagine strength runs deep within her. (To pronounce name ~ both a are short, the i has the long e sound, and the r rolls into the short a.)


This next Planner Girl is from "Call it a plan". Her name is Faith. She embodies the virtue of faithful. I love that Angie left the book in her hand plain and untitled. We can assign it any title we prefer.

 
I'll be working on these as part of the Beautifully Made tag series. I may vignette these to see how it would look!


I hope that you enjoyed the creations and text of this blog as much as I did creating it.

I'm curious if any of you noticed on Planner Gal Faith that I modified her blouse. It originally hung off her shoulder. I just lifted it up a bit for her. ;) I no longer shy away from most stamps that do not fit my modest lifestyle if I am able to properly modify the clothing. Don't be afraid to modify your stamps, friends! I promise you the artist does not mind. ;)



For those of you who fully read my blog, I thank you so very much. I love being able to express myself through creating and writing, and I love sharing both with you. 

If I may, I'd love to invite you to follow my blog.
There is a "follow" button up a bit and to the right. --->
Not the follow by email, it's up just a bit from it. Thank you so much!
It brings me so much joy sharing my thoughts and creations with all of you!

(Unfortunately, you won't have access to the follow button from your phone unless you view as web version. ;)

As always~

Thanks for spending time with me today!

Until next time~

Be blessed, friends!

Bobbie Sue

I hope you have a chance to visit each blog. I know they are all equally as wonderful and unique!  If you've not, please see the blog hop list at the bottom of this post and prepare to be inspired!

There are some pretty awesome giveaways with this hop! Including one from me! Be sure you comment on EACH blog post to be entered in the drawing. 

This months winners will be announced during next months blog hop!
(I have a feeling you will comment anyway as a way of support and admiration to the artists.)

Speaking of giveaways!! Congratulations to Kim Marie for being my winner from last months FOU blog hop! Thank you for your sweet comment! Please message me your contact information.

Friends, please know that our hops are not sponsored. (Although, I know Unity Stamp Co. lovingly approves) Because your support is so valuable and so appreciated, prizes are given from the creators own private stash of Unity stamps.


       The hop started with
 
 
You arrived here from
 
You are here! 
ME
 
Please visit next!
 
 

 Dawn
 


Forgive any grammar mistakes you may find. However, I am always open to friendly and constructive criticism or correction. Please know, I write my blog out of absolute enjoyment and do not stress over possible minor errors within the layout. I appreciate you, friends!

67 comments:

  1. Wow! Wow! Wow! So many gorgeous creations, Bobbie Sue! I don't know where to start... LOL! I love the calendar cards... I'm blessed to receive one of these fabulous creations from you and it's proudly displayed in my studio. The card you created is fabulous and I can't wait to see the others you've made! And those tags!! They are absolutely gorgeous, each one! You've inspired me to pull out my Planner Girls and give them some much needed color! Absolutely fabulous!!

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    1. Oh my goodness what wonderful accolades! Thank you so very much! I love that you have your calendar in your studio! Makes me happy happy!

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  2. I really love your tags! Great way to use planner girls. So many beautiful calanders too! Just wow! Wow! Wow! All of it is just amazing work!

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  3. I am so excited about your tags. They are so awesome! I love the layout and the vellum and the ribbons you finished the tags off.... I am so inspired!

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    1. Thank you so much! I’m excited to work on more of them! What is your name dear??

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  4. Bobbie, I love ALL of your creations! I made a calendar for my daughter almost identical to the middle one, and will make one for a dear friend today (thank you for the little calendars!). I love the tags, too, & plan to make some in the coming days!

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    1. Thank you so much, Wilma! Would love to see your calendar(s). And your tags!! 🤗

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  5. Wowzer Simply Beautiful Creations!! Thank you for the wonderful inspiration you share!

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  6. Bobbie Sue you have been busy with all these amazing projects. I love the names you have given your planner girls and their meanings... good characteristics to live up to.😊 ( I did notice how you beautifully modified the neckline of the one planner girl... perfect!! My crafting friend Crystal does that too😁) Blessings!!

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    1. Dorothy, thank you so much for such kind kind words!! I love that you noticed my modification to her neckline. Thank you also for actually reading my text!

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  7. Oh goodness, I just adore your creativity!! I don't know how you get so much made!! And all of them so very lovely! I'm positive that every one who received something from you feels so very blessed & special.

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    1. Becca, you are always so giving with kind words! Thank you! We have a whole month to work on our projects so I had plenty time. 🤗

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  8. Wow, AMAZING projects! So many fantastic layers, dimension, textures and details. I absolutely love your affirmation calendar.

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  9. So much beauty to see here!! Love everything, and especiall they tags, they are perfect!!

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    1. How kind, Sandra!! Thank you so much!! I do love the tags.🤗

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  10. I am amazed at all your projects, they are just stunning TFS!

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  11. Wow! What a way to start the year, with such a focus on the unique qualities of strong women. Your attention to detail (even to giving names of strength and light) is inspiring. All of this is gorgeous - and I would love to know where to get those calendars!

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    1. Jan, thank you for your kindness! I buy my calendars through Taylored Expressions! 10 for $3!

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  12. These are all fabulous
    and very inspiring.
    Carla from Utah

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  13. Once again Bobbie you have completely rocked this month's hop. I love everything you've created. The calendars were my favorite and then I go to the Beautifully made tags and fell in love all over again. Gorgeous works of art. Thanks for sharing your inspiration each month.

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    1. Once again you always humble me with your kind and generous comments. Thank you, my friend!!

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  14. Awesome projects! Love the calendar, tags and card!

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  15. Yaaaaay! Thank you so much! What a blessing!!

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    1. I’m so happy for you! Message me on Facebook or email me @ bobbiesuemcconathy@yahoo.com !

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  16. Such wonderful projects! Every year I determine to make a calendar and every year events crowd it out! Love yours! The Alise card though... gorgeous!! Aaaaand thanks for the inspiration of modifying stamped images... i'm in! :)

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    1. Thank you so much, Kim! I’m so happy that you took the time to read my text! It means so much! I absolutely love the Alise card, too. I’d love to know how/when you modify any stamps!!

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  17. Amazing cards, calendars, and tags Bobbie Sue. I love your coloring, patterns, stamps, and designs. So inspiring. Happy New Year!

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    1. Thank you so much, Kim! Happy and blessed New Year!

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  18. I always love your posts- does my heart so much good!!! Your projects are amazing, love that you describe the names of the girls and what they mean and love how you modify clothes your ladies wear : ) You are amazing and I LOVE your art!!!

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    1. I love this.♥️ Thank you, Shelly! I love that you read the text of my blog. Thank you for that!

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  19. Funny I have become obsessed with tags lately and have a few planner girls. Smacking my forehead, why didn’t I think to use them on tags? Thanks for the inspiration! Great job

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    1. Thank you! Aren’t tags so fun!! Hope you get your planner gals out and play!

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  20. Those calendars are a wonderful gift! How cool is that!!! All your projects here are very neat! Thank you for sharing!!!

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  21. Bobbie Sue, you always make me happy😊 your art is always uplifting and inspirational, as well as beautiful. Thank you🤗

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    1. Thank you for sharing these sweet words with me, Debbie!!

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  22. Your projects are all fantastic!! From the calendars to the tags! Love the design, the sentiments and the coloring!! Thanks for the inspiration! I have seen some of your calendars in the Unity show n tell group, please post the tags as well if you have not. The group will love them!

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  23. Bobbie Sue, your cc collection is absolutely a show stopper. Wow! And the 3 cc's you shared for this blog all have some of my most favorite and used Unity sentiments. Your tag collection stands on it's own as another amazing set. So creative and beautiful! I think you could antique the edges or leave them as is since both would look amazing. Happy New Year to you, friend!

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    1. My sweet friend. You are always so kind and generous with your comments. Thank you so much, Meg!! Happy & Blessed New Year to you!

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  24. Lovely creations as usual, my friend! I especially love those calendars! So much work, so beautifully put together! A work of love, for sure!

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  25. Just gorgeous! I love the calendars...thanks for inspiring me 😘

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  26. I love seeing your beautiful cards, Bobbie Sue. You really inspire me!

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    1. My Samantha! Thank you so much!! I just love that you’ve joined Unity!! 🤗♥️

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  27. awesome project! love all the months, Bobbie Sue.
    great job!

    Alicia

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  28. Amazing. Such a great idea. how enriched your recipients will be.

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  29. You have been a busy lady. There are so many wonderful little calendars and tags. Thanks for sharing with us. 😍

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  30. Oh my goodness, Bobbie Sue!! You inspire me so much, you have No idea!!
    I am also a happy recipient of one of your calendars, too, and I can tell everyone reading this, they are SO much prettier in your hand, seeing them with your own eyes!!
    I love all the fibers, ribbons, and twines you use on your tags/bookmarks! SO much eye candy in this blog!!!
    Love you my friend!!!

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  31. Wow, your calendar series is just gorgeous and I love how you colored the planner girls. Great tip on modifying the neckline of the one Planner girl to suit your needs.

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  32. Happy New Year to everyone!!!
    Beautiful set of cards and tags!!! Congrats to the winner!!!

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  33. Don’t even know where to start. Each one is awesome!! I’m glad you didn’t say pick your favorite! 😉

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    1. Ha!! Thank you so much!! Now I’m saying pick a favorite!! 😂🤗♥️

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  34. They are all beautiful and so inspiring, as all your creations are.I am now going to have to get more creative and try new things ,you really inspire me to kept trying different things.....

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  35. Oh my goodness what an amazing collection. Love the tags. Thanks for the inspiration. Beautiful work!

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  36. Girl, you’ve been busy! I thoroughly enjoyed reading your entire blog post. Always so artful and inspiring. Thanks for the shout out. I love how you combined Alise with the butterfly stamp. Gorgeous! All of these creations are so beautiful ��.

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  37. Wow--lots of wonderful projects. I like how you modified clothing.
    slrdowney at hotmail dot com

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  38. Bobbie Sue, I adore your uplifting creations! They are beautiful!

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