Reorganizing -- Stamps, (ideas included) and Scrapbook Challenges #239

Hey there!!! Two weeks into full reorganizing mode and I'm wanting to put up a white flag of defeat. I have donated over three Cropper Hoppers of paper, and a few random stamps and embellishments, so far, to my children's school art teacher. It feels great to declutter but I really want to be spending my time creating, instead.

Would you like to see a tiny bit of what I have been doing this past week? I have categorized all of my stamps by topic. All of the words, phrases or bible verses have gone into an Excel print file. They are categorized by types of sentiments, such as; grieving, birthday, friend, love, Thanksgiving, etc. This way I can reference the sets to go to when I want a particular sentiment. This is especially helpful for some of my Papertrey sentiments, as they are often co-mingled. For example, Mother's Day sentiments might be found in the same set as well wishes.

The image stamps are also being indexed on paper. They are grouped into various topics. A few examples of topics are flowers, butterflies, flourishes, borders and backgrounds. Since they are in different forms, it would be difficult to store all of the same types together. For example, cushion mounted flowers would be harder to store in the same spot as acrylic flowers. Therefore, I created the stamped indexes. Here is a photo showing a few of my index sheets that will be kept orderly in a binder:

I'm almost done with the stamps.

So far, I have had two closet makers here to propose some built-ins for my craft room. I am planning two more closet maker visits and want to get a couple cabinet makers estimates for comparison. I would love to keep the costs down with the pressed wood built-ins. But, with the job market so volatile still, I want to be prepared for a quick home downsize, if ever need be. In such case, cabinets would be a better option because I can move them.

It is overwhelming trying to organize my tools and supplies, and decide what to do to finish a lovely dedicated room, currently filled with a mish mosh of plastic storage containers and random shelving!!

The worst part of it all is rushing to complete a project for Scrapbook Challenges Sketch #239. I almost requested a skip week but do not ever want to fall into a habit of not completing my commitments. Here is the cool sketch in double page spread version that I started with for my framework:

The 5 pictures that I used were taken in a visit to Brooklyn, NY. I took my children to show them a very special place. This awesome, wonderful and magnificent building was home to my Great Grandparents, and my Great Uncle Richie. I have so many fabulous memories, that I'm glad that I have two backsides to document some of the stories! The left two photos are entrances from the street to the courtyard door, and the three on the right are from the center courtyard. Not only was it a nostalgic visit but I loved the photographs. The bricks running down the center are heat embossed and cut, and also ink stamped with a stamp from Layers of Color. I believe that this had the makings for a much greater page but rushed through it. This will not be happening again! I, also, deviated quite a bit from my original plan so the layout is not as literal as most of my sketch projects. :)


I apologize if I rambled. It's been too long since I've seen ya. ;)
Have a marvelous day! Thank you for the visit.