Thursday, July 30, 2015

Dream Come True...and Winnie & Walter Rerun: The Big, the Bold and Fun, 4 Crafty Chicks #257~Anything Goes, Simon Says Wednesday Challenge~Anything Goes

Hello!

Remember that 'second' road trip I mentioned in a previous post?  Well, now that I'm home (we arrived at midnight today), I'm sooooo excited to share the details...

Last Wednesday (seems like so long ago!), my husband and I flew to Ottawa (I quelled my fear of air travel reasonably well...sort of) where he spent two days working and I spent two days wandering the city I was born in - and left at age four - oh, so many years ago.  On Friday, he picked up the vehicle we were driving home - a 15-passenger van with a trailer, that was partially loaded with bike gear belonging to athletes from Alberta, who had been competing in Eastern Canada - and Saturday, we added to the mix with a bunch of supplies from the office that is being relocated from Ottawa to Canmore.  Once we packed in as much as we could, I nestled into the passenger seat, and he, in the driver's. We Ottawa a 'see you later' and settled in for the long, long road trip home that took us To Windsor, Ontario, into the US and, late last night, back home.  Five days...many hours of driving...gorgeous surroundings, but urban and rural...some 'scary' moments (the crazy winds in South Dakota, between Fargo and Minot, that saw us hunkered down in a gas station parking lot for two hours Tuesday evening. The gusts, paired with seeing a truck/trailer overturn in front of us, made that an easy decision!)...plenty of bonding time...and opportunity for another dream come true!

When I first learned of the trip - and my husband's plan to return via the US - I knew this was 'the' chance to meet one of the sweetest, most precious, most darling gems in this blog-iverse: Bev, of Happy Dance fame! No way were we going 'that far' without making this happen - and thanks to my marvelous husband, who altered our otherwise tight return schedule - it did!  You can imagine my excitement when, in response to my 'wanna meet' email, she responded with an enthusiastic "yes"; you can imagine my excitement when we pulled into Racine the evening before our 'date', knowing she was but minutes, rather than the span of a country, away; you can imagine my excitement when I heard her voice answer my 'local' phone call to let her know we'd arrived; you can imagine the excitement that kept me awake most of the night.  Morning couldn't come quickly enough...

You know those scenes, where a couple runs toward one another, arms  outstretched, locking into a warm embrace?  That was us!  I don't think the van/trailer was even fully stopped before I was out, running towards Bev who was running my direction.  We met in a happy-dance hug that was perfect...just absolutely 'meant-to-be' perfect!

For the next far-too-short three hours, I spent glorious time, basking in the warm, open, genuine, sparkling, hilarious, witty, down-to-earth beauty - both inside and out - that is Bev.  We covered a lot of ground during our chat: from our card-making passion, to craft shopping (including our 'what was I thinking" anecdotes), to kids, to 'histories', to husbands, to...well, to everything and anything in-between!  Old friends, comfortable and delighting in one another's company, catching up: that captures my experience to a 't'. We already love her from her blogs, but in real life...WOW!  If you were to be in her presence, guaranteed you'd fall for her even more, exactly the way I did!

My husband took a photo of us, so you can see how gorgeous Bev is! That smile of hers lights up a room and it sure is infectious, as you can see by mine!


Not only did she delight and enthrall me with her companionship, but she came bearing gifts: not one, but two Danish Kringles from the town's renowned O&H Bakery! Oh my...these flaky, almond-laden pastries (how Bev knew I'm an almond fan is beyond me! Love almonds!) are decadent, ultra-fabulous, "yes, I'll gladly take another slice" delights!   Let's just say: only one Kringle made its way home *grin*!


Side story: when we crossed the border back into Canada, one of the border guard's questions was, "Did you receive any gifts while you were out of the country?"  My husband didn't a miss a beat, responding with, "Yes, my wife's friend from Racine gave us two Kringles."  The guard didn't know what that was; he does now!  He declined a taste, but I know he was tempted!

Meeting Bev, "for real" has enriched my life.  We left far, far too early; we could have talked for hours....for days! Guess that means I'll need to plan another visit...soon!  And until then, I'll tuck this special memory into that special place where I can pull out this treasured time spent with a treasured friend whenever I need a sparkle added to my days, which will be often!

Happy sighhhh...

Okay, now for my card that was partially done before we left and that I wrapped up this morning (I forgot to set my clock back...I 'thought" it was 7am, but it was 6am...oh well, couldn't sleep anyway...) for Winnie &Walter's, The Big, the Bold and Fun Re-Run Challenge

I Chameleon-coloured (we are going to become pals, those pens and I!) several of the multifaceted stars from the True set, die cut them into various sizes, and paired them with the Shine sentiment. 


I'm also heading to:



Unpacking, Kringle-bibbling, laundry, Kringle-nibbling, some crafting...three days of bike-racing coming up Saturday-Monday (long weekend) so more traveling, then off to see my mom and family next Wednesday for about a week! Excited!!

I'm still aiming to catch up on comments, so do stay tuned!

Thanks so much for dropping by; your visit and comments add sparkle to my day!
Hugs,






27 comments:

Carole said...

A star of a card! looks to me as though you ad the chameleon pens are rubbing along fine. How lovely to meet with your blogging buddy and have a short but memorable time together.You both look very happy.Safe travels next week xx

Happy Dance said...

It was a dream come true, wasn't it just?!! I can still see you smile and hear your voice sweet friend. So glad you liked the kringle...it's nice to know you enjoyed it! Sure would be nice to be able to get together again one day soon!! But until then, I will keep the memory of this day in my heart! And I think you've conquered those pens too. Those stars look fantastic; the whole card looks fantastic! Really beautiful design. So sweet. And let's do it again, really soon! Bev

Marybeth said...

Oh how wonderful that the two of you got to sped some precious time together! Love the picture of the two of you, you both light up the outside with those smiles. My parents are both form WI but moved to CA, when they were just married. My mom has the very same pastry sent to us at Christmas time. Welcome home and thanks for sharing your visit!

Cornelia (fun stamping) said...

What a wonderful blog post - so fun to read ! Looks like you had a wonderful time together! Such fun to meet blog friend in real life! Thanks for sharing the picture! I bet that kringle was delicious! And what a card you are show casing! A true beauty! those stars are beautifully colored and what a great idea to cut tow smaller ones!

~amy~ said...

I thoroughly enjoyed reading about your ventures and your visit with the oh-so-lovely BEV!!!!!! Isn't fun to have that instant connection with a friend that you've never met before?! Paper crafters...you gotta love them.

Your star card is a STAR.

Susanne Vargas said...

I am so excited that you and Bev got to meet each other! You are both so lovely and sweet! Great photo of the two of you! How kind of your husband to make it happen despite a tight schedule! I know because I was very thankful when my DH went drove me to Darnell's house!
Love your starry card! Looks like you are on best terms with your Chameleon markers!

Jeanne J. said...

It was fun reading your post and getting to know you better. I'm not much on traveling either. Home is my favorite place :) Your card is beautiful! I love all the color and contrast!

I Card Everyone said...

Oh c... I am pleased as punch for the two of you ... seriously? Could you be more happy in this photo? But I know just how you felt since I too got the genuine article this summer ... maybe, just maybe we can convince you to come back? We'll leave the [craft] light on for you...
=] Michele

Joyce said...

What an amazing adventure you had, and so glad you got to meet Bev. It is always so wonderful to meet crafty friends in person. What a cute picture of the two of you. You will have to keep me posted if your biking adventures ever take you south. I love the card that you made for the W&W challenge--I should check that out now that I own a couple of their sets.

Anita in France said...

How fantastic, Carol! What a joy for you and Bev to meet in real life ... that happiness shines through your smiles in this wonderful photo of you two beautiful girls! Fabulous card BTW ... seems you and those chameleons have become the best of friends! Hugs, Anita :)

Heather said...

A fabulous card Carol, a lovely design with with super colours for the stunning stars and great sentiments!!

hugs
Heather xx
Thanks so much for joining us with Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge.

Kristie Goulet said...

Love that you got to meet up with Bev!! What a great adventure and story you shared here. A treasure for sure. Thank you for sharing.
Awesome card!!!

Jeanne said...

Welcome home, Carol! What a fantastic story and memory to have! So happy for the two of you. :) Thanks for sharing. The card looks amazing, too. I'd concur with a lot of previous commenters that you definitely have the hang of those pens. :)

Vicki Dutcher said...

Yes trips are great fun -- meeting fellow stampers......THE BEST PART! 😀

Becca Cruger said...

You crazy lady - you were in FARGO and you didn't tell me?!?! Sigh* Ground rules: If you're ever that close to me again let me know! I'm so jealous of Bev that she got to meet the fantastic you! :) Sounds like you had quite a moving adventure and I hope you're settling in just fine. Love your bevy of rainbow stars. So pretty!

shirley-bee said...

How fabulous that you and Bev got to meet! And with Danish pastries too ;) Love your card - looks like you and Chameleon pens are best buddies now. I'm finally starting to catch up in blogland after holidays, family christening and DS2 and girlfriend flying in from Oz. Happy times :)

Geri said...

Love the colors that you used on your star card...but in all honesty, I love your pics and your post more! I mean....how could I not? Two fabulous women who I have had the pleasure of meeting made my heart smile sooooo big I think I darn near imploded! You wrote such a beautiful post and captured our dear, sweet friend's radiant, warm personality beautifully. And, is that Kringle not THE absolute best thing in the whole wide world? We were fortunate to enjoy a mouthful or 50 at the Lakehouse! Sounds like the rest of your trip was fun too.....except seeing a truck flip over in front of you because of the wind! Yikes!

Darnell said...

I am so so jealous that I couldn't have teleported into that parking lot and joined you two loving friends! The photo is priceless and so beautiful of both of your bubbly and fun-loving personalities. I'm so proud to know you both and your beautifully written post made me all warm and fuzzy inside. Except for the part about the storm in SD. I'm so glad to hear you were able to take safe harbor!!

Now, Carol, I'm thinking you and the traveling Andy need to revisit the Bay Area one of these days!! Hugs, Darnell

(Oops, what card?! I'm so becited that you two met, I forgot about your card! But, seriously, your card is divine! I'm hoping to open up my months-old box of Chameleons this weekend. You have me a little scared though ...!)

Tamie said...

What an adventure! Certainly glad you got to meeting a blogging friend. I hope to meet some of mine someday. Your card is beautiful and these new markers look awesome. Thank you for sharing with us at 4 Crafty Chicks Anything Goes Challenge

Tamie DT

Marisa said...

Met a blogging friend from Australia a few years ago and it was so much fun!! Glad you got to connect and what a great chance to drive across our country! Waiting patiently (or otherwise LOL) for your trip to BC!!

Kylie said...

*squeal* Two of my favourite crafty people getting to meet! So happy for you both. Next time, I want to be there too. ;)

Beautiful card too. Love the colours and yes, you are totally rocking those pens. :)

Taunya Butler said...

Oh, you are adorable and I am so HAPPY for you that you met Bev, you are both so.lucky!!! The thing is that I just have to tell you that YOU like your card SHINE and light up the world for others to bask in - your delightfulness knows no end AND your card making prowess is being noticed all over bloggy land!! I think this card is stunning and so well styled - it sparkles, it glistens and it uplifts!! Wow - you are a Winnie & Walter queen!! Just amazed at the beautiful creations you have been making!! Oh, please be safe and happy!!

Shona Chambers said...

How wonderful to meet Bev face to face!!! It would have felt like you had met before knowing so much about each other thru blogland. Can imagine all the giggling and story telling. The Danish Kringle looks interesting and bet it tasted even better. Five days driving must have been beautiful with all the scenery. Scary about the winds though!! Absolutely love your card, its so bright, colourful and happy, as I bet you still are after meeting your lovely friend!!

Barb Ghig said...

How wonderful that you had a chance to meet Bev! I'll bet it was the most fun ever...Love the sweet photo of you girls :)
Well, you really knocked it outta the park with this gorgeous card, Carol! I'm really impressed with how beautifully you colored the stars with your Chameleon pens...wow! Love your choice of sentiments, too! Once again, I apologize for being so late saying hello...I really do ENJOY visiting your fabulous blog! And I'm so glad you enjoyed your visit with Bev!!!

Greta said...

Wonderful card--just love it! How neat that your road trip included meeting a blog friend--love the picture of you two!

Bobby said...

It's too bad you didn't travel across Michigan on your trip. You could have picked up Michele and I along the way. I know....you were on a time schedule. Next time, maybe. Anyway, I'm so glad you did get to meet Bev. I told her, and now you, that it's apparent in your smiles that it was a meeting made in heaven. Love the card. Those stars really do 'shine'.

SewPaperPaint said...

Such a perfect card!