chinaGirlLove

Easy, easy craft with sparkle paint n' stones!

2012-02-17T07:07:00.000-08:00

Kitchen Table Art Project

This is a craft I did at 7:00 in the morning while getting two kiddos ready for school and I didn't skip a beat! Let me stress, I am soooo not super woman and only wish I were a "type A" person, because maybe then, I'd understand why every drawer in my house has evolved into a junk drawer! I was responsible for non-edible Valentine treats for a pre-school party and while I had the requisite throw-away items in a little bag, I created these GOOD LUCK ladybugs and liked em' best of all and I think the kiddos did as well!

Sparkle puffy paint, a Sharpie marker, pebbles and your are set to go! Draw out the little Ladybug, then sort of thickly dab the paint from the nozzle of the paint bottle and then micro-wave to dry...if like me, you are doing first thing in the morning! Now my second grader has asked for a bunch of them! The perfectly imperfect stones can be found at a Dollar Store, craft store, or maybe in your own backyard!!!! Just thought I'd share the recent "kitchen table project!"

Fun freebie for us grown ups!

2012-02-14T06:11:00.000-08:00

For someting fun n' different just for YOU, click on my Fab'log for a fab, FREE bookmark!

Hope you enjoy! Also, for both free ChinaGirlLove and VanityCases art alerts I hope you'll LIKE my art page: Vanity Cases Art & Humor by ColleneKennedy on Facebook.

*It always feels so funny to ask one to "like" moi even if it's Facebook!

Valentines Printables

2012-02-10T09:40:00.000-08:00

Click n' Print
Once you click and enlarge, this should print out nicely on an 8.5x11 piece of paper. Fold in half vertically and horizontally and cut. If it's a tad' too large in printer settings print at @95%! If that doesn't work email me and I'll send you a file!

Oh Sweet Gang! I'm so sorry I haven't had time to create a new Valentine Printable but happily I've had quite a lot of special requests for individual China Girl illustrations of adorable little ones, a donation request or two or three for my woman-to-woman humor prints and adding art to my VanityGalleryStore, as well as trying like mad to open my AdoptionOption shoppe on Etsy. I'm looking forward to offering lotsa' charming, reasonably priced images available at first, as prints! I'm always, always open to suggestions! In the meantime, enjoy this printable!!!!

Valentines Printables

2012-02-03T09:56:00.000-08:00

Okay, so here's my goal! I plan to u/load some charming free Valentine Printable in the next day or so! Something simple n' sweet that you can print for your little one's to pass around. So, either follow my Vanity Cases Art & Humor Facebook page for an art alert, or this blog, or just click on back when you get a moment! I'll try to make something fun that could be used by a girl or boy!

See ya/ Collene

Sister Love

2012-01-29T11:27:00.000-08:00

I so know that most of you come on by here for free art which I really, really enjoy creating. I also try to regularly create items that can be customized for my ChinaGirlLove and VanityCases on line stores, but I must say; the my Ladybug and Daisy have not been respecting my "To Do" list these days! I always say I work a full-time job in pockets of time and there are waves when I need to accept the best thing I did on a given day was make the two little sillies smile! My girlies have kept me busy!

Soooooo with that being said, I'm rolling up my sleeves and clearing the drawing board and will post something in the next day or so that you can print from this site! Frankly, I'm thinking a "Try to do" list will be the

Charming China Girl Book Mark

2012-01-06T12:36:00.000-08:00

Click n' Print

You can print these charming China Girl bookmarks on a single page of 8.5 x 11 paper, one of two ways. You can click on the image and it will appear larger whereupon you print. Or, you can right click and slide the image on to your desktop to print. I printed at 97% of the size of the full image which is something you can adjust when you print. At 97% no part of the image is cut off of the printing area.

I left room for notes ... because I'm always taking notes when I read of information, websites or this or that. I use bookmarks for everything I read from mags, to tabloids, to actual books! If you'd like to look at more lil' ol' charming China Girl and Boy images take a look art in my on-line ChinaGirlLove store! Enjoy!

Mini-Chinese Adoption Reunion~

2012-01-03T12:10:00.000-08:00

Sisters for life -

So much I want to jot down and share about our semi annual mini Chinese Adoption Reunion! I just need a few moments very, very soon, but in the meantime, a picture is worth a zillion words of our magical girls that we brought home 7 years ago Christmastime! For our mini reunion four of the girls from our original group of many more are clearly special sisters and have a bond that is a bit magical! Our girls knew each other before they knew us and yet I certainly bet all of us Moms feel like we've known them in our hearts our whole lives!

More pix and fun updates later when I get a moment -

Children's Art Party Invitation

2011-11-17T17:17:00.000-08:00

It would be impossible for moi' to purchase a birthday party invite for Gianna.

We had a birthday party at Michael's Art store two years ago and it was truly one of the best and frankly most reasonable birthday parties! The stores have an art room which for a very minimal fee is "all yours" for 2 hours. Someone from the store leads your project-of-choice and you bring your birthday cake and refreshments. For the price of the room and materials for the project, which you can purchase with coupons it's easy and a hoo n' a half! Plus, the project becomes the "goody bag" give-away!

I'll likely post this invite in "customizable" form along with a coordinating "Thank You" note in my ChinaGirlLOVE on-line store shortly. 3 year old Miss Daisy's nap seems to be fading so working on art deadlines and desired projects is at a stage where I can often feel like a cat chasing its tail! That's an observation - not a complaint ;o)

Freeeeeee Lunch Box Love note....

2011-10-28T11:18:00.000-07:00

Print n' Click

When you print n' click, you may have to do a print preview and make reduce to let's say 95% on your printer settings so that no design is clipped off~

My goal has been to create a new Chinese Boy Lunch Box love note but between some deadlines, two young active kiddos and being very, very hard on myself, I'm not quite happy with the likeness I'm trying to create of a true Super Duper boy...and you know who he is Mom E. Person!

So come on back & if I get a few new LIKES on my Vanity Cases Art & Humor page, I'll be motivated to give it another try and post it as a freebie here! So without sounding pathetic, I hope you'll click on over to FB and "LIKE" my art page ;o)

Black & White or Color?????

2011-10-24T17:02:00.000-07:00

In playing with our new camera I took some pix' of my two Looney Tunes and now I can't decide should I print n' frame the black and whites or the color photos. I think both have very yummy little faces but of course I would...I'm their Mom E. Person. I often say that I don't forget my girls are Chinese, I forget that I'm not!

2011-10-07T17:58:00.000-07:00

I truly promise I will have some lunch box notes with LITTLE BOY DESIGNS shortly, that you can download from this site!!!! Come on back or follow here or no face book at Vanity Cases Art & Humor by Collene Kennedy, which is where I often post my FREEBIES!

Sweet China Girl note card for you!

2011-10-03T06:27:00.000-07:00

Click & Print this Free Card!

You can click and print this note card on a standard sheet of 8.5x11 piece of paper and just fold in half to cut into two note cards! You may have to adjust your printer settings to print size 8.5 x 11 or click it twice for the correct sizing or drag it to your desktop. It's actually all very easy to do! After you print, just fold the card in half and you've got a quick n' simple card that works for soooo many different occasions!

I did this one in the likeness of my 7 year old (about a year ago) and hope it works for YOU! I'm always open to new suggestions of fun freebies to create for this blog as well as product suggestions for my ChinaGirlLove on-line store! Have a great day!

Cheerleading Letters!

2011-09-18T15:15:00.000-07:00

Now this image only works if you can tell it's the letter "K!"

I think I'll have to re-work it a bit as I see some flaws! But be on the look out at this blog as I'll post other "people letters!"

***I must really work on some Lunch Box Love notes inspired by a Super Duper China Boy! Oooooh, if only there were a few more hours in every day?!!!

China adoption

2011-09-12T17:43:00.000-07:00

If anyone has any questions about China Adoption that I didn't address during a recent webinar, please email me or leave a comment here and I'll do my best!

In participating in a recent Webinar for our Adoption Agency, Holt International, of course the moment I was off the phone I was able to think of a million things I wish I said! Like for the person who asked about the plane ride home, I wish I could answer again that those many, many hours from China to the States seem to fly by! You almost wish they were longer as strange as that sounds! It's this moment that is yours and your child's and nobody else quite yet. And yup, the child may cry on the plane but you've had them for two weeks at this point and you'll have found your way to knowing what actions, food, toys offer them comfort. Oddly, even after an 8 hour delay in leaving Hong Kong, I was sad in seeing China become a little dot in the view of the window.

I wish I could have shared how much you love your child once it's placed in your arms but that's I guess one of those mysteries of motherhood. When asked why did we adopt, the short answer is, "How else would I have had my girls?" I just knew my children were "out there" and I always desired and knew it would be through adoption.

A friend who has biological children said she could never imagine "not knowing" the child before you brought the child home. I adore this friend, but I don't think that she "got it!" In an almost giddy way, I embrace the discovery of finding out who my children are...and that stays true on a daily bases. I always knew I wanted to adopt and while I didn't carry our children in my body, I carried them in my heart long before they were in my arms. As corny as it sounds, if the heart is ready, all else falls into place.

You embrace that there are differences from being handed a newborn to someone who has been born for a while, and existed prior to you loving them. It becomes a wonderful odessey of finding out who is this little person is! I suppose there are challenges no matter how one brings their child into their family but patience, love and humor, for me, are key! We went to the other side of the world for our children so even a temper tantrum, while not indulged, is something I embrace as part of the wonderment "of it all!"

Most of all I wish I could have explained how you fall madly in love with this child; this little being and embrace every single peaceful and chaotic moment as part of the fabric of how they have come into your world or is it how we have come into theirs! Much affection/ Collene

Lunch box love notes

2011-09-07T07:05:00.000-07:00

Click n' Print these "Tweet" Lunch Box Notes!

Well, it's that time of year where a little note can make all the difference in the day of your child! Now that my oldest daughter is in 2nd grade, I write little messages! With this design, you can click n' print or drag it to your desktop and create the size that works for you! They are so fun to do and I have quite a few more in my ChinaGirllove on line store! Hope you enjoy!

How did we get so lucky?!

2011-08-31T18:18:00.000-07:00

I just die that about 13 or so months ago this little munchkin became our second daughter! She has been so easy, so silly, so funny, so smart! This video was shot a few months after returning home. To be certain there was a brief period where the communication gap was major, but like anything, it was really mere moments in the overall scheme of things!

Seeing my two daughters walking, talking, laughing, fighting with each other, being silly n' fun is like seeing my heart walking all over the place! Happy Everyday to anyone who is reading this post!

Lunch box love notes

2011-08-27T14:07:00.000-07:00

Lunch Box Love notes by ChinaGirlLove

So school has started in some places & is about to start in others so for me, that means creating Lunch Box Love Notes. Of course I'll post some freebies and invite your suggestions!!!

When my 7 year old was in pre-school I would doodle a smiley face or tape a silly little picture to the little Note. During Kindergarten, I would do a "letter of the day" or the words she was starting to read. She's entering second grade, so I'll have to write actual little notes! In the rare occasion that I"m away for a day or two on business, I tuck them under her pillow, at her spot at the dinner table and in other fun places where she can find a note from Mom E. telling her how much she is missed... of course along with her sister, Miss Daisy!

I keep a bunch of these little note cards in my purse in a baggie (not so chic huh?). I often use them to jot down something silly, funny, imaginative my kiddos say because as much as I think I'll remember it later, I never do! Also, I then tape them into her journal.

Lunch Box Love notes Business Card Template from Zazzle.com

2011-08-27T13:46:00.000-07:00

Lunch Box Love notes Business Card Template from Zazzle.com

Found this little gem....

2011-08-19T16:37:00.000-07:00

Well I know I usually post fun, free art on this site, but I came across a little video that my (now) 7 year old made a little less than a year ago and cracked up! She is totally giving it to the camera! The kid kills me! There isn't a full 60 seconds that go by, that I don't die that this little Ladybug is my daughter & while I look forward to knowing her as she grows up, I also wish I could freeze frame these moments!

Lunch box love notes....

2011-08-11T07:44:00.000-07:00

Okay! With school just around the corner, I decided I must design a variety of lunch-box love notes. My oldest daughter is 7 and I still tuck them into various places, often jotting down words she is learning as she practices reading. They also seem to prove very handy when I run into someone & need to exchange information i.e. phone number, play date, email. In addition to offering some freebies here, I'll also post new designs (including boys) in my ChinaGirlLove store as well as some I've created for us fabulous adults in my VanityCases store.

Now, all I need is my two kiddos to give me time to do this! What are the chances that will happen?! You know, as hectic as it can be balancing working from home as well as having and creating activities, not to mention meals for two active kids, on the most "never-getting-to-stop-for-a-moment-day," I truly love all of it. Friends with older kids say it gets easier. But I don't want to "wish this time away," and therefore I just embrace the most hurried moments as well as the quiet ones.

If the girls are having a loud tussle, I remind myself at best it will last a few long minutes and then it will be over and then they will be playing again! Right??? Right? I don't hear you????
Collene

Hmmmm what should I create???

2011-08-03T08:45:00.000-07:00

Hmmmm! I have an idea for something to create that has to do with The Wizard of Oz and/ or more specifically the song, "Somewhere over the Rainbow." But I'm open! My goal is to post the project that you will be able to print from this site today, (but I have to remind myself it's summer & two active kids do not afford me all that much time to get my own things done!)

Ohhhhh Summer!

2011-07-25T17:43:00.000-07:00

Click n' print or drag to your desktop to print!

I've been meaning to post a new freebie but I swear with summer & two active Girls to love n' a few work deadlines, it's a challenge to find the time to so much as feed-the-fish! Hopefully I'll get a moment to post a new freebie tomorrow...I'm thinkin' lil' jot-it-down note cards that you can print similar to ones in this post that I've previously posted! I'm also open to suggestions!

Chinese Boy Adoption Announcement

2011-07-08T06:23:00.000-07:00

Chinese Boy adoption announcement by ChinaGirlLove

I am always beyond flattered & touched when my art work is purchased as was the case recently with this Adoption Announcement which allows for a picture and detailed information on the reverse side. To whomever purchased, (from my ChinaGirlLove store) I thank you from the bottom of my heart!

A quick n' easy gift/ craft!

2011-06-30T12:26:00.000-07:00

I swear once you buy a can of chalkboard spray paint, nothing is off limits, including the font of our dishwasher!!! This was a quick n' easy craft that I created as a gift and took me all of 60 seconds! Add one eraser, a few pieces of chalk n' a personal message and you have something fun for kids and/ or adults! Right??? (The flower pot was in the garage n' didn't cost a thing!)

Click n' print bookmark!

2011-06-06T13:17:00.000-07:00

Click n' Print this bookmark!

My 7 year old had an "Author's Tea" at school today so in addition to bringing in napkins and paper plates, I created some fun bookmarks! It's so cute to see the little tea cup peeking from the pages of a 1st grade book for which she was the Author!

I'd love a suggestion for a theme if anyone would like to suggest! Email me or offer a comment here or friend my art page on Facebook to let me know your thee idea for a BM or notecards! Let your imagination go wild or silly!

I never think of the time line...

2011-05-03T16:49:00.000-07:00

I truly never think of the time line that occurred that brought my daughters to my life because in the end, the timing was perfect for our 7 year old Gianna, who we brought home from China 6 years ago and our simply magical, silly, funny little Daisy, who came into our lives last Mother's Day!

Truly I didn't ever count the years, months or days as we lived waiting for our second daughter because in my heart I always knew the timing would be perfect as has proved true! If asked, I think it might have been about a 4+ year time line but when I look at my two girls, who Gianna calls twins, I know not unlike child birth, it all seems like it went by in a moment!

Fashion first....

2011-03-17T08:31:00.000-07:00

Daisy has been home since the last week in May and while she may not be able to communicate (to others) in the same way an average 2 1/2 year old communicates, the kid can put an outfit together! And in the end, language or dressing one's self in a pink jacket, complete with a hat, what could be more important! To no surprise to me, Big Sister Gianna says they are twins!

NEW FREEBIE PRINTABLE ART COMING SOON! Follow this blog or check back!

A lil' Valentine Tweet!

2011-02-13T14:33:00.000-08:00

Click n' Print or slide to desktop n' print

I created these Tweets which, are a great last-minute Valentine, to be printed on 8.5 x 11 paper.

I actually create a store with Tweet E. Doodles, but am sorry to say I haven't created anything new there for quite some time! But I will post some Sweet Tweets here so I hope you'll come by and enjoy!

A little Valentines Note

2011-01-24T06:09:00.000-08:00

Click n' print

If you click this mini-Valentine card image you can print it right off of your screen or you can drag to your desktop! I've been quite bizzzzzzy with Miss Daisy, Miss Gianna & greeting card deadlines & therefore haven't had time to create a fun freebie downloadable art for this site in a wee bit! Please come back, as my goal this week is to add a few fun items for you to print! "Goal!" is the key word here! I find a 2 and 7 year old could care less about their Mom E. Person's goals! ;o) Thanks for stopping by/Collene

A smarty pie trapped by a communication glitch!

2011-01-11T11:58:00.000-08:00

***Since I have not had time to post freebie downloadable art here in a wee bit, come on over to my Fab'log and download a fab' to-do list!

Oooooh Miss Daisy! I find her quite brilliant in that she's been able to re-start her whole little life as of six months ago, which is when we brought her home from China and has done so in a way that makes me pinch myself at how smooth it's been.

Well. I'm pinching myself now, but at times it's from frustration as Miss Daisy is understanding everything but can't communicate commensurate with a 2 1/2 year old who has been raised with the same language from day one! My sweet little Blossom is having mini-melt downs through the day and I get it! Can you imagine knowing what you want, being certain you are communicating what you want and then not getting anything close to what you want! Oy. It's a time for deep breaths and to remember that she is my "she-ro"! She'll get it all soon enough! In the meantime, I laugh, love and getta' kick out of her and Gianna, who embraced her as a little sister from day one!

PS, I'll post shortly about her first two days of pre-school. I'm a laid back person, but trust me, this wasn't easy for either of us!!! Until then, Daisy is napping and I'm breathing!

2011-01-07T11:29:00.000-08:00

I'm sooooo behind in posting free printable art and posting about our Daisy Yang-Guo! She's been home six months and I pinch myself all the time, just as I do with our 7 year old Gianna, whose been our daughter it seems since the beginning of time! She insists her and Daisy are twins even though they were born in very different areas of China.

The other day someone was going on a tad' about how their two year old could recite their colors, numbers, etc., etc. I smiled and said that was just great. But I thought o myself, our little one inside the time-span has learned a new language, learned a new life and has done it all with seeming ease!

In adopting a 22 month old I had my catcher's mitt on and ready for emotional turmoil, perhaps sensory or eating challenges, sleep problems, etc. And what do ya' know, we must be the luckiest people in the world or simply matched with the child that was perfect for us, as the only problems we have are keeping up with her endless energy! We were also "warned" that her Big Sister would have trouble adjusting and sharing her life. Uhm. Nope. Except for the occasional sibling frustration, Gianna was ready to love, care and nurture her from the start. Am I a ref at times between the two; well of course, but isn't that part of the job requirement of being the parent to siblings?!

The only thing Miss Daisy does not have, is respect for my daily "to do" lists so hopefully, in addition to my commercial art deadlines, I'll be able to work around her nappy times on some printables for this blogspot!

2010-11-08T06:24:00.000-08:00

But how does she understand so much?

Daisy Yang Guo has been home since summer. We received her when she was 22 months old and now she's a split second past being two and "truly two" in almost every single way! I pinch myself at how smooth her transition has been and even that of her older sister, my six year old Gianna for whom we are about to celebrate her 5th Family Day and 6th birthday. I had my catcher's mitt on for any unforeseen trauma or bonding drama but what I've received is a funny, smart, silly, beautiful little girl with whom there is a trusting and loving relationship between myself, her older sister and Husband Man.

While I have a mother's helper that speaks Cantonese (and is only available every couple of weeks) and we have studied Mandarin for 4 years, basically Daisy has had to re-boot her language computer and I simply die at how much she understands. To be certain, in working from home I often speak with 3 - word sentences and much gesturing and a little bit of sign language thrown in, but just the same, I'm truly in awe of the learning process. And naturally, more than anything I hope I am / we are doing it all in the best possible way for Daisy. I recently learned from someone who adopted a slightly older child that it's important to not let the first language "die." So with that, I will often put on songs or cartoons in Cantonese via youtube. But frankly, I don't know that Daisy understands.

I just need more time ... but free art coming back again!

2010-10-27T06:10:00.000-07:00

I will most definitely post art that you can download (for free of course) shortly! I'm a tad' behind because one little Daisy (photo above), who has been "very selfish" with Mom E.'s time since she's been home as of early June! Also, in addition to this site, I've been quite busy at work (during Daisy's nappy times) creating art for my "For funny women only" on line Vanity store and coordinating Fab'log, where I also post free art. It's quite different than my China Children style ... and I hope you'll agree quite fabbity-fab!

All silliness aside, I truly pinch myself with how amazingly well Miss Daisy has adjusted to having a big sister and starting a new language and a new EVERYTHING from scratch at 22 months! She seems to understand EVERYTHING! I try to always put myself in her place and I just marvel at how she's not only adjusted, but continues to bloom. I understand almost everything she's trying to communicate even if others don't! I'm certain the combo' of sign language and much talking in @3-word sentences has helped. But what just kills me is that I can see that she's a funny little bug; truly silly. I swear between Daisy and Gianna, I so often feel like my girls are optical illusions of my heart!Okay.... Please come back or FOLLOW this blog for freebie art ... I'll do my best to post more regularly again!!!

Little note cards for noting almost anything!

2010-08-23T06:55:00.000-07:00

With school starting soon, I really have to create more Lunch Box Notes! I have always tucked notes into my daughter's lunch bag or backpack for school or camp and they are great for jotting down silly, smart & imaginative things [my] children say, which I later tape or tack into a photo book or journal. They also come in very handy when exchanging information for let's say play dates! Like us Mom E. People, they multi-task! Just click the image and then click "print" and enjoy!

To see more Lunch Box in my on line store, click on "lunch box love notes" Of course I can create an image just for your little Sweet E. at no extra charge! Enjoy!

New Art coming soon...really!

2010-08-10T06:16:00.000-07:00

A main goal of this blogspot is to post fun, free art ... must say, having adopted our two year old Miss Daisy from China just before summer, I'm finding her and "big sister" [six year old] Miss Gianna have don't have any respect for my art deadlines and creative "to do list!" I've had to rename it my daily "Try to do list!" And as soon as I can get a little window of time I'll post some freebie "try to do" list sheets for you! In the mean time, feel free to take a look at my ChinaGirlLove or Vanity Caes on-line stores if you're looking for a little creative inspiration!

I'm either very organized with my time in working from home -- or crazy! My bestest friends believe the crazy part!

Multi-Tasking...

2010-07-16T14:56:00.000-07:00

Having been adopted from China not even two months ago, on certain charts Miss Daisy is said not to be on the same track of development as let's say an average two year old. I agree. She's not on the same chart or track... I think she's on a faster one! She's picking up language and learning a mile-a-minute! I still can't eat without getting food all over myself while talking on the phone so she's one up'd me on this one as seen in the photo!

She's a pure delight ... Her sister, Miss Gianna embraces and loves her 98% of the time! Let's not chat about the other 2%! A job requirement of a child that hasn't had to share her parents for 5 years is to be a bit "trying" and Miss Gianna does her job well ... and I'm just as charmed by her as ever!!

Bauwthtime

2010-06-13T12:16:00.000-07:00

Amazing how one went from screaming seemingly to no end in China when we tried brief basin baths and now "bauwthtime" is pure heaven! And funny how you count the smiles you get in China but now they are a countless part of the day!

A very nice little face...

2010-06-08T19:13:00.000-07:00

I could share a million things about how things are going having recently gotten home with our second daughter from China. But it can also be as simple as sharing the giddy pleasure I get by simply looking into her eyes; her beautiful, beautiful eyes. In what seems like mere moments she went from holding a bottle in China all of four weeks ago, to feeding herself with a fork and spoon and eating almost everything! And while she's a new walker and opted not to walk our second week together in China, she's now walking forwards and backwards and starting to master little stairs/ steps! Putting her to bed was the most challenging and met with blood curdling screams both in China and at the start here, but I I've calibrated a routine that works! With just the right amount of light and soft white noise and reading a couple of her books, Miss Daisy goes to bed with minimal fuss. The same holds true with an afternoon nap which is key, as nappy time is when I go into high-functioning working-in-the-studio time!

The wait was quite long for Daisy, four+ years, but when I look into that face, I know I could have waited forever. It's the same feeling I have for our first daughter, Gianna Wan-Fen, who is now six years old. And I say this at a time when her challenge with sibling rivalry rivaled my every last nerve! I believe it's a job requirement of a six year old who has had the "world" to themselves, to be both amazing with their new sibling, and annoyed to death with her as well! That being said, there's truly not a split second I don't cherish and revel in it all!

I was very laid back with our first daughter and I'm even more laid back, or as I like to think of it, comfortable, with our second daughter. One thing is for sure; if she can survive the almost manic hugging and love and ACTIVE play with her older sister, she can likely make it through anything!

Real lovely, yummy sisters...

2010-06-01T14:05:00.000-07:00

Big Sister Miss Gianna is blowing me away 99.9999% of the time in the way that she is loving her baby sister and helping me! Heavens! With Gianna in the role of Mom E. Assistant, I can actually leave the room, wash my hair (albeit bent over in the kitchen sink) and do this n' that! Uhm, let's not chat about the .3% of time when the expected emotional dust storms kick in! They pass!

And please come on back to the blog as I'm going to post free art in the next day or so as I've always done! Naturally there will be a Daisy theme! I can't help myself!

It's all so amazing...

2010-05-30T14:28:00.000-07:00

This photo was taken in China and for much of the two weeks this was Zhan Yang Guo's expression.

We are flabbergasted at how much she "came out" of her little protective shell as we started the journey home, first by train to Hong Kong and then a 6+ hour delay departing Hong Kong before the endless 14 hour flight and an unexpected overnight in Chicago. As we got off the plane in Phila, greeted by tears by my Mom, Sister's and Bro-in-law, something magical happened. Just as when we arrived home five years ago with Gianna, there were endless smiles and cooing and a sweet and happy demeanor from our newest addition. It's like her little easy going personality that the caretakers told us about landed with us as the plane landed on the ground.

And one would think this precious little one would put up a stink at a car seat as this was likely the first one she was in on the way home from the airport. But instead, the cooing and "talking" continued for the 25 minute car ride home! We've been home about one week and Miss Daisy Yang Guo is leaving me in awe with their ability to love and be loved in what seems like a mere moment. Of course there are challenges through this transition but in the end, it's truly all good.

Home one week...

2010-05-30T14:08:00.000-07:00

But this picture is from when we were in China. This is the first family picture and it was taken in at the Civil Affairs Center in Guangzhou for the adoption certificate. There needed to be a photo of Douglas, Daisy Yang Guo and myself. However, we asked if we could have Gianna in the picture because the Big Sister is going to be the most important part of our family! The officials were so kind and sweet and while they didn't snap the shot, they allowed us to have a friend take one.

We are home one week and marvel at both of our girls. They are both doing amazingly. Naturally there are little potholes of frustration for both of them, but that is to be expected. Our Gianna can get more smiles out of her sister than one would think possible. And when Miss Daisy smiles (I'll post pix), it makes me believe she has always been a part of our lives.

Transformation ....

2010-05-25T14:30:00.000-07:00

This is our second time around adopting from China and in reflection it seems like it takes forever and at the same time only mere moments before these amazing little people know that they are going to be loved forever and ever beyond description!

Miss Daisy Yang Guo Kennedy was clearly loved by very special people at her SWI before we were allowed the privilege to love her as our second daughter. We met two lovely and warm caretakers when we received and met Zhan Yang Guo and will be forever grateful for the initial heart breaking tears that reflected she was bonded to these very special people who were part of a very special program at her SWI. It illustrated to us that she was loved and had the ability to love. With the amazing, immediate love and patience from her new big sister Gianna and us, within what seemed like mere hours there were smiles and a transformation.

To be sure there would be times during our two weeks in China where there were tears, mostly at night, but the smiles gave way to those magical moments and a clear vision to our heart of why the caretakers shared that this is a very easy going and very affectionate child.

Come on by again for the next post to see how we came upon the name Daisy!

Calm

2010-05-05T08:25:00.001-07:00

Click n' Print

As we are about to head back to China to adopt our Yummy Zhan Yang Guo, this illustration best describes how I am feeling. Very centered and very calm. It's the same way I felt 5 years ago when we we were meeting our Delicious Guo Wan Fen aka Gianna Wan-Fen Kennedy!

I've used this image to create luggage tags n' will post for you to print tags or note cards. And stay posted for posts from China!

China Boy Art

2010-04-26T12:29:00.001-07:00

Adoption Day art by ChinaGirlLove

As I'm working on creating drawings with sweet little China boys, I thought this wall art celebrating Adoption Day might be a sweet little item. I'm trying to give much of my attention to boys, but I may have to create this wall art concept with Charming little China girls as well!

Little Boys ...

2010-04-26T12:21:00.000-07:00

Sweet Little Boy

My newest challenge has been to create art with sweet China boy images. My goal is to create a variety faces and personalities and art that honors Chinese culture but is also "pure boy." To see the images so far click here and click the BOYS link. I welcome any feedback via comments on this blog.

Happy Flowers for wall art...

2010-04-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

Click n' Print

I translated these drawings I did into wall decals and they look very charming appearing to be sitting on white shelves! I'll post a picture!

To create: print design desired size and cut them out. Place the design face down on the tacky side of clear contact paper and cut with about an 1/8 or a smidgen more border around the edges. Then press designs on to desired wall, mirror or window and that's it! I use an eraser to rub the clear (matte) border so it doesn't show. You can peel your designs off the wall and it does NOT upset any paint! I hope you enjoy! I'm very open to any special design requests which you can send me by commenting or emailing ME. Enjoy! Collene

Tweet little notes...

2010-04-15T12:18:00.000-07:00

Click n' print or drag to your desktop to print. These "tweet" little notes work best on a slightly heavier weight paper. They are fun little Lunch Box notes to slip in a lunch box or backpack with a little note or under a pillow wishing a happy dream! As always, I keep them (in ziplock baggies) in my purse & often use when my little one says something that I know I had better write down before I forget it! The silly little note then becomes a little memento of a moment in time! And remember, I can create especiallly for you if you like; please visit my online store for more info! In the meantime, ENJOY!

Have a "Tweet Day!"

2010-04-13T11:30:00.000-07:00

Click n' Print

So now that I figured out how to create wall decals (refer to Wall art post), I'm having little Tweets flying about! These silly little birds make me smile. Just to play, I have them posted here n' there in the house to be discovered as a "Tweet Surprise!" There's also a bunch of them flying in the Tweet E. Doodles store! Enjoy and have a "Tweet Day!!!" Collene

Adoption Announcements...

2010-04-11T17:43:00.000-07:00

Sunshine Adoption Announcement by ColleneKennedy

I'm very much in the creative mood to create adoption announcements! They make me smile! If you know anyone who has a particular idea they would like to see doodled, drawn and completed, I invite you to send them my way and I will do my best to create what's ever in their head! PS, 15% off these items! Use Promotional Code: 15OFFINVITES at check out!

PSS...I'll post a freebie tomorrow! Time didn't permit today!

Finding the calm ....

2010-04-05T17:30:00.000-07:00

Won't you please click HERE for my [visual] thought of-the-day upon receiving Travel Approval today? Oddly, I did this early in the day when I accepted & embraced we might not receive approval until next week. As always my vice was my creativity (& humor). What a very nice surprise to see we "got it!"...but the image & the philosophy still applies! Can you see me smiling?!

Imagination and Style ...

2010-04-05T11:40:00.000-07:00

Imagination Lunchbox love note - by ChinaGirlLove

Sale, SALE, sale! 15% OFF ALL LUNCHBOX LOVE NOTES: Use Promotional Code: BIZCARDSAVE1 at check out Wouldn't it be great if someone slipped a little "lunchbox love note" with words of encouragement into our lunch boxes, purses or pockets!? I ♥ creating these with special requests so please don't hesitate to contact me with yours!

I've been creating new ones and posted this design because I love the message and I believe it wholeheartedly! There is truly (almost) nothing you can't do with imagination and style!

Creating wall art!

2010-03-30T09:58:00.000-07:00

Instant Wall Art!

A few pretty daisies growing up the wall! Here's how you do it -- As mentioned in the previous post, you need "clear contact" paper and your design of choice.
1. You cut your desired wall art designs out.
2. Cut a piece of contact paper a bit larger than the size of the flower design [see below]
3. Peel the backing off of the contact paper and place image design face down on the contact paper.
4. Cut around the design leaving let's say a tiny edge that will be adhered to a wall, mirror, window.
5. I use an eraser to "burnish" the tacky part to the wall; it's great for driving out tiny air bubbles.
Ta Da! It's that easy! I'm going to post some additional fabbity fab designs for you to use if you like, but really, you can do this with anything! I'll show you what I mean in a future post. Hope you enjoy!

You can either click n' print art, or right click with your mouse, drag to your desktop and adjust size before printing.

Wall Art craft, cheap, fabulous & easy!

2010-03-29T09:44:00.000-07:00

I will update this post tomorrow, Tuesday, March 30th! This Dang Spring break for kids is throwing me off my game! To make Wall E.s like you see on the site WallStickersShop.com, you'll need some clear contact paper (pictured above). I searched 2 craft stores and found it at what I call home-away-from-home; Target. It's in the Mop section with shelf paper & costs around 5 dollars

For some reason my framed piece of lace (from a dollar store) and my version of Wall. E's got scrunched in the end-photo. The next post will share a very simple, step-by-step way you can do this and I'll post designs you can use if you like! I would lay out directions & post art right now, only it's Spring Break & there are two nutty children (my daughter pictured above and her friend) stuck inside on this rainy day & if I don't get them out for a slice of pizza, it could mean the end of any peace in my day as i know it!

Creative and cheap wall art project...

2010-03-26T09:13:00.000-07:00

Okay...I'm inviting you to come back because I think I've figured out a fabulous & easy way to create your own Wall. E art! I found this wallstickershop site but since I'm creative (and cheap), I think I've come up with a way to do this with your own art or perhaps you can use something I will post here! I'm hoping to post this later today (after completion of a major project.) May I suggest signing up to follow this blog? It's an easy way to stay on top of postings and give aways?!

China Boy Adoption Announcement

2010-03-25T05:56:00.000-07:00

Chinese Boy adoption announcement by ChinaGirlLove

It's about time that I started creating / designing products for sweet little boys who are adopted from China! If you click on the announcement in this post, you'll see you can add your Cute E.'s picture to the reverse side. I"m inspired to create many ideas and have posted my first few in the boys section of my on-line store.

I invite you to sign up to follow this blog to be able see what I hope is an
endless variety of new ideas as well as for all the freebies I post!
Enjoy this Spring Day! / Collene

Super Duper Boy Lunchbox notes

2010-03-24T10:14:00.000-07:00

Click n print this sheet of cards that were inspired by a Super Duper Boy but, I think translate into many little special boys who have that magical super-duper power to make the heart grow beyond description with a single glance! These are my lunchbox love notes. They're great for a Mom E. Person to jot a lil' note & then tuck into a lunch bag, a backpack or under the pillow to wish happy dreams. I keep a bunch in my purse & use to "write it down before I forget it" when my daughter says things that make my heart smile. I later tape them into a journal and they become a sort of childhood memento!

The cards posted here are quick n' easy to print but please remember the quality will of course be better when purchased from my store & printed on card stock!

More "boy stuff" coming...As always, I call on YOUR creativity to let me know what you are looking for! Happy thoughts for a Super Duper Happy Day!

Pretty Lade E. Bug note paper

2010-03-23T12:35:00.000-07:00

Click n' Print this Pretty Note Paper!

Lade E. Bugs are such a happy little bug and I love that they are a symbol of Good Luck for Chinese adoption. Being someone cynical I'm certain someone came up with the idea because it's so cute and commercial. But just the same, just as daisies are a happy flower, Ladybugs are a happy bug. There's a few Ladybug items in my ChinaGirlLove store, but I'll be posting more! Do you ever get tired of little Lade E. Bugs?

PS... You can either right click and drag this image to your desktop to print, or simple click n' print when you see it big on the screen. If you find any of the design gets clipped, just print at 95 or 98%

It's Super-Duper Boy!

2010-03-22T17:03:00.000-07:00

Just playing with my pen & pencils here --

This is Super Duper Boy, he is able to leap tall hearts in a single bound & make you love him at the speed of light! Now please forgive if I haven't quite "got it" yet! This little guy is one of a few of my first exercises in trying to capture ChinaBoyLove that emerged from my drawing table. He'll be followed by many more on this blog and in my store as I try to perfect and offer variety of personalities -- because despite what some 6 year old girls think (like mine), boys do not stink!

Without having an actual photo to work from, this little guy was inspired by a Cute E. Pie, whose spirit seems to jump out as big as his smile.

Free Thank You Notes

2010-03-17T15:24:00.000-07:00

Click n' Print or Click n' drag to your desktop & print

*You may need to print at let's say 95% of original size if any of the design gets clipped off!

Okay, so maybe this [free] Thank You note that is not specific to ChinaGirlLove art, but I'm playing around here & at my Store with different ideas for Thank You Notes... I think perhaps I have the "Thank You" a tad' too small. I'm hoping the Daisy theme can be seen clearly... I may have to tweak! But in the meantime, I hope you enjoy!

Thank You

2010-03-17T10:19:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I scratch my thinking cap for "what to doodle today" & some days images pop-out of my pen, pencils & markers! I feel very thankful everyday, but today visual ideas are emerging on paper! I'm going to therefore post some nifty (free) thank you notes here & in my store today. It's always good to say Thank You, so "Thank You."

Aweeeeeee!

2010-03-10T11:51:00.000-08:00

Is it just me or is she just simply yummy!?

We just rcvd' updated pix and I'm further in love with our little Flower! She looks like a delightful little bloom! She's 18 months and she's walking and talking ... well a few words anyway!

And today, ( March 11) we were thrillllllled to rcv' our Article 5 letter which, to make a confusing long paper-work-story short, means we could be in China in about a month or so. It could be a tad' longer, but I like to dangle the shortest time-line in my positive thinkin'!!!

The other picture we rcvd' of Yang Guo was by taken by chance by a perfect stranger who was visiting her SWI in China. Click the Red Thread link on the right side of this blog for what is truly an amazing Red Thread story. Happy Thoughts to all/ Collene

A Mom E. Note

2010-03-10T11:02:00.000-08:00

Click n' Print - You will want to reduce print size to print in full -

I must have used this note ten millionty times last year. I've since updated since Miss Gianna has grown her bangs out and at 6 years old, must approve any artwork that Mom E. does of her! I smile and respect!

Most currently I'm working on Birthday Kits for my store for which my aforementioned daughter has many theme ideas! She's sort of my Creative Director at times!

If you follow this blog, you'll stay posted on all my freebie printables, see my newest creations in China Girl store and of course progress on the final stretch of our second adoption! Enjoy!

Happy Spa'thday Birthday Invitation -

2010-03-04T18:02:00.000-08:00

Spa'thday Party Invitation by ChinaGirlLove

I was speaking to my "Birthday Party Creative Consultant" today about birthday party themes to inspire me to create art for the birthday kits I offer in my store. The themed kits currently include invitations, stickers and thank you notes. I loved the idea of a
"Spa'thday Party!" Uhm,fulldisclosure, my Creative Consultant is my 6 year old daughter! Don't hesitate to contact me if you
have a personal request by clicking me, Collene.

You can do this!

2010-03-03T05:51:00.000-08:00

Make this sticker with your sweet little one's image!

For as many charming little drawings as I can do, what can be as cute as your little Cute E!? Add your picture to a little sticker (as I have). They come in sheets of 20 and are perfect on invites, little notes & on correspondence to family n' friends!

Here's how you do it -- You can click directly on my sticker [above] and you will be prompted to change image and text, and that's it! Or you can create a variety of items with your picture by clicking on my store, then on the top of the page where it says CREATE you can decide what you would like to create & once again you'll follow the prompts.

Have fun! Please email me with any questions at collenekennedy@comcast.net Enjoy!

The calm before the ....

2010-02-27T09:36:00.000-08:00

Well, I can't call it the calm before the storm in awaiting Travel Approval, because I don't consider having our second child a storm! But I do have a window of time where I can create, create, create products for my store! That being said, I would love to know what YOU are looking for! I reeeeallly appreciate the emails I've rcvd' with suggestions and invite your ideas by adding a comment or emailing me directly! And follow, follow, follow this blog because I plan to post many more [free] printables!

I needed a distraction...

2010-02-25T16:31:00.000-08:00

I needed a little distraction so if you would like a freebie that is "veddy sofistikated" and different from my ChinaGirlLove art, click on over to my VanityCases Fab'blog!

I know I should be getting the room ready...

2010-02-23T10:23:00.000-08:00

for our second little Sweet E. Pie! However, as crazy as it sounds to some, we basically got Gianna's room in tip-top shape right after we rcvd' our Travel Approval 5 years ago! At first her little "Sistah" will be in her room or ours, as she must be so used to sleeping with many "siblings." So, in this time prior to receiving our TA I will invest my energy to art deadlines and creating fun and fab' freebies for this (primarily) art blog and my Fab'blog! Would love to know what "you're" looking for! You can leave me a comment or email me directly!

Awaiting Travel Approval

2010-02-22T15:08:00.000-08:00

"Princess" Adoption announcement by ChinaGirlLove

We are basically a stamp away from getting Travel Approval. I'm certain our paperwork is at the consulate (refer to two posts ago) and as soon as it emerges to its proper place at the top of the pile, we will get our stamp of Travel Approval. Until then, I'm going to embrace any time that I still have control over and design ChinaGirlLove cards as well as fabitty fab art for my VanityCases line! Click the "Fab'blog" to see how "veddy" different they are from ChinaGirl art! It's nice to be a little crazy and design two diverse lines at once!

Great Job! 100 Points for you!

2010-02-18T14:27:00.000-08:00

Click n' Print!

I like creating "reward" cards to motivate my young daughter to fulfill her daily responsibilities & good deeds! At week's end if she's earned enough points, we take a trip to an inexpensive novelty store where she can "spend" her points. Most of the time it works like a charm! You can click n' print these for free or go to my on line store where you can order 100 for under $20. The ones at the ChinaGirlLove store have a little design space on the back for notations! Enjoy!

An Itty-Bitty Typo consumed last week!

2010-02-17T16:56:00.000-08:00

Click for more pix
A single typo in our Zhan Yang Guo's name, where the O and U were switched, was made in the second to last step here in the states in one of our Government offices and was discovered in China as our paperwork was on the verge of being submitted to the consulate whereupon we are issued an Article 5 and /or Travel Approval.

Our agency Holt, is amazing and it was their China-based staff that discovered the itty-bitty error. They said it could have caused us more misery in China than the price of being on the phone a millionty hours last week to have it corrected! I spent umpteen hours having it corrected; that includeded those phone numbers where you have to wait for the prompt and then stay on hold until your arm cramps. At all times I remained calm, polite and as is my way of coping injected both praise and humor to almost every party I spoke to. In the end, nobody ever makes a mistake on purpose and it was about finding the proper parties to correct the change. Almost every single person I spoke to was helpful and supportive. "Almost" being the operative word! You always have a bad apple in these things. The trick is to not let them allow you to stumble, fall or get frustrated!

What a surprise when it was corrected, and I exhaled. That was until one lovely person from one of the Government offices contacted me to tell me the error had been corrected -- INCORRECTLY! She had asked that I not freak out at the news and I didn't. I simply laughed as though someone slipped on a banana peel.

Problem, solution, staying sane! In the end, it looks like all our information is where it should be in China and I can only cross my fingers and keep breathing as we wait for our Article 5 ... and not another TYPO discovery!!!

This long explanation is why there is not a creative freebie posted in the past week! But please come back or FOLLOW this blog as I will be back in my creative mindset and post something fun and free to download tomorrow!!!! Positive thoughts/ Collene

Let it snow, Let it snow...but not too much more!

2010-02-10T16:14:00.000-08:00

This is livin'...for some people! Nature's confetti is why I took the day off today!
PS... for my most recent freebie downloadables scroll down a bit!

2010-02-06T16:47:00.000-08:00

Click n' Print! -- ideally on card stock or heavy paper

After 3+ years, we were matched on Dec. 2nd with our adorable Zhan Yang Guo. Unlike our first adoption, the time frame before going to China is much longer. The 3+ years that our dossier has been in China has gone by [seemingly] in a flash, but awaiting the final stages of paperwork that will be punctuated by our TA, hopefully within the next few weeks, seems a tad' endless. I am therefore reposting a charming little tool for myself and for others who may be in the same "in-between land!" The little notes are useful for jotting down thoughts while anticipating meeting your child. I don't know if it makes the time go by faster, but I'm certain one day I'l/we'll l prize the the notes that can be pasted/ taped into a journal! Lunch Box Love note - As always, I hope you'll enjoy!

A Happy Valentines Card!

2010-02-03T09:11:00.000-08:00

Click n' Print!

First! Thank you so much for the sweet comments! I always invite comments here or direct to my email to let me know what you are looking for either as a downloadable, or for my on-line store, where most items can be customized! Actually, I would suggest looking or searching the diversity of fun items at the

Remember - - Follow this blog for losta' freebies! Have a Sweet Day/ Collene

Enjoy Simple Joy...Everyday!

2010-02-01T07:58:00.000-08:00

Click n' Print the Love Notes Page!

My lil' mini Valentines, notecards n' lunchbox love notes seem to be the most popular freebie downloadable items that I post! A friend and amazing artist called them little keepsake items. That's how I think of them as I keep about a dozen in my purse n' freeze frame little notes n' quotes from my young daughter and then tape them in a journal/ scrappy-like book. Note: They are on sale at my on-line store; 100 for a tad over $15. Personalizing them is easy and makes them that much more fun!

I need to stock the store!

2010-01-29T12:33:00.000-08:00

I so enjoy the creative challenge of creating and posting freebie downloadables here (usually) every other day. But in the

past couple of days I've had to work a bit on creating n' posting product for my China Girl Love store... Here's just a few of the V'Day cards I've been working on! You can access them in the store by clicking the Valentine's folder... Gotta' keep the store freshly stocked!

Good fortune Notes

2010-01-27T12:15:00.000-08:00

Click, Print n' Enjoy

A simple sentiment & a simple design for little notes for you! For cut lines, fold in half horizontally & then vertically & then cut on fold lines! For some reason an extra piece of paper will go through the printer, but it will be blank; no ink wasted! PS...I apologize for the original post in which the design was not properly formatted & therefore slightly cut off when printed! It's best to print at 95 - 98% % of original size. I don't know why this simple design is being such a naughty challenge today!... Have faith in me & come back tomorrow for a newbie freebie! Collene

I'm going to post a fun freebie today!

2010-01-27T10:45:00.001-08:00

I'm going to post a fun freebie today! We got really good news bringing us one step closer to going to China to adopt Gianna's little sister; refer to picture...by Gianna!

Fortune Cookie Heart...

2010-01-25T16:44:00.000-08:00

There's something fun about fortune cookies & the untold fortune they hold...I think I'll post something tomorrow with this theme because I ♥ fortune cookies! Sorry I haven't posted a freebie in a couple of days... Gotta' talk to my very active 6 year old; she has no respect for Mom E. Person's sked!

Boys?!

2010-01-25T06:52:00.001-08:00

Hhhmmmm. I'm thinking of creating some "ChinaBoyLove" ideas...would love it if you could email me or leave a comment with what you might be looking for or want! Thanks/ Collene

Imagine!

2010-01-22T09:25:00.000-08:00

"Imagine" is a great word to start so many different sentences, thoughts and suggestions! The word is so inspiring! I have this image of my muse/ daughter hanging in a petite white frame in her room it. Today "Imagine" has inspired me to work on creating posters and wall hangings that I"m posting in my China Girl Love store! I'm also planning on posting a freebie downloadable today as well! Follow my blog n' to be informed of all my freebies and new designs and updates on our second adoption! Collene

Time didn't permit...

2010-01-21T16:15:00.000-08:00

Since my time didn't permit creating and posting a new and/ or freebie downloadable design today, I opted to post one of my first ChinaGirlLove designs. I have this in a small white frame in my daughter's room and never get tired of seeing it because it reminds me of her and the sentiment is so sweet and simple. I'm going to be creating Life Book collections with coordinating customizable pages and will likely use this design. Hope you Enjoy, Simple Joy! Collene

2010-01-20T10:44:00.000-08:00

Click for reduced price info'
This little (3.5 x 2.5) Valentine card is inspired by the lovely Chinese tale of how an invisible red thread connects people together. This charming lil' card can be given to family n' friends for Valentines Day. And since it's sold in pks of 100, it can also be used afterwards as "Lunch box Love notes," tucked into lunch bags and boxes, into pack packs & under a pillow wishing sweet dreams! Visit ChinaGirlLoveto see more V'Day & Lunchbox love note cards!

Ladybug Love notes - Again because...

2010-01-20T09:09:00.000-08:00

Click n' Print!

After 3+ years, we were matched on Dec. 2nd with our adorable Zhan Yang Guo. Unlike our first adoption, there is a longer time frame before going to China. The 3+ years that our dossier has been in China has gone by [seemingly] in a flash, but awaiting the final stages of paperwork that will be punctuated by our TA, hopefully within the next few weeks, seems a tad' endless. I am therefore reposting a charming little tool for myself and for others who may be in the same "in-between land!" The little notes are a useful for jotting down thoughts about your day or to your newest little Ladybug during the time of anticipating meeting your child. I don't know if it makes the time go by faster, but I'm certain one day I'l/we'll l prize the the notes that can be pasted/ taped into a journal! Lunch Box Love note - As always, I hope you'll enjoy!

Ladybug love notes

2010-01-19T12:21:00.001-08:00

Click, Print n' Personalize!

Read the previous post before printing...if you please!

Follow this blog to stay on top of all the freebies!

2010-01-19T11:47:00.000-08:00

So this idea of Ladybug Love Notes was inspired by my Lunch Box Love notes & something I recently suggested to a friend who is "waiting" to go to China to meet her child. It's sort of a "60 second journal" concept & a great little emotional outlet. I gave her a dozen or so & suggested she jot down notes to her daughter and/ or to herself at this stage of anticipation.

Even though I'm a "journal person," I've kept similar little cards (in a ziplock bag) in my purse for years so that I could "write it down before I forget it!" It seems every single day my young daughter says something I want to "freeze-lock" in the moment n' my little cards enable me do do that! -- I'm not a "scrapbook person" but have ta' say, the little notes serve the purpose of recording a moment & look just fine tacked down with tape ... in a journal! So whether waiting for your child, or for the to record the next silly little thing one says, I hope you'll enjoy! More coming soon!

All my hearts!

2010-01-18T14:48:00.001-08:00

Click, Print n' Personalize!
Okay, so I reinvented a drawing that I used in a previous post, but I here's a new idea! Print on slightly heavier paper & use as a sweet little Valentines card for family & friends! Or write an itty-bitty note and use it as a lunch box love not to slip into lunch bags, pack backs, into pockets or under the pillow with a "sweet dreams" wish! Enjoy!

2010-01-17T16:45:00.001-08:00

Vanity Good Scents card by VanityCases
Design a personalized notecard on Zazzle

Okay... This is a shameless but giddy showing off post! I just discovered someone from across the pond (UK that is) purchased items from my Vanity Cases collection! This is the art & humor I've been doing for years on woman-to-woman greeting cards & quite different from my China Girl doodles n' drawings! But truth-be-told, Vanity Cases are as much who I am as my China Girl Love! ... Thanks for letting me boast!

Vanity Good Scents card from Zazzle.com

2010-01-17T16:45:00.000-08:00

Vanity Good Scents card from Zazzle.com

2010-01-15T11:17:00.001-08:00

Click, Print n' Personalize!

I took the veddy' official Reward Award one step further! In addition to good deeds Gianna earned them for her daily (pretty miniscule) responsibilities! It's workin' like a charm! I told her if she earned a certain amount by Friday we could go to Five Below on Saturday! - - Amazing how a store with cheapy items is mecca for a young child! I'm having a hoot creating these & will be posting more in the Lunch Box Love notes section of my on line store!

2010-01-15T11:17:00.000-08:00

So this week in preparation for our upcoming trip to China, I took Gianna's to get her photo taken for her passport, or as she calls it, her "Sup'port." She felt soOOo official & revealed a sly smile when she was told how important a passport is! The process inspired the idea of creating a very official & personalized Reward Award" for unsolicited good deeds i.e. cleaning up without having to be asked or told a millionty times! With each Award given, that sly smile emerges!

2010-01-14T17:27:00.000-08:00

Using my three newest muses I created a fun bag to collect Valentines or this n' that anytime! To see how each muse looks on the bag click on by ChinaGirlLove.

I hope you'll come on by tomorrow for some freebie downloadables that time didn't permit me to complete n' post today! Better yet, if you would like to "follow" this blog, you can be alerted each time something new is posted! As always, thank you very much for stopping by, Collene

2010-01-13T15:33:00.000-08:00

Three sweet muses tugging at hearts as they will effortlessly do!

I'll post some cute [downloadble] notes tomorrow & hope you'll take a peek at the Valentines (& Thank You) notes I created & posted Valentines section of my on line store today!

2010-01-13T10:59:00.000-08:00

I am one "play date" away from 1, meeting an art deadline and 2, posting TODAY some sweet [freebie] Valentines downloadables! My muse (pictured above) and /or daughter never seems to have that much respect for my daily "try-to-do list!"

2010-01-11T07:33:00.000-08:00

Before we go to China in the coming months, it's all about Big Sistah' & creating sweet little images for my daughter to pass about! On the back of this card is a photo of her little sister aka the Lil' Ladybug! I'm going to create some "official big sister" cards, art, badges & ideas! I always appreciate your feedback & suggestions either through commenting here or via email by clicking on my name link! Collene

Follow this blog as I'm always posting freebies and hope to get some up here later today!

2010-01-08T09:38:00.000-08:00

Creating art for my Vanity Cases greeting cards & brand, & especially China Girl doodles for this site & my on line store is like playing everyday! It's so fun to share n' give away the freebie downloadables! In combination with creating China Girl Valentines ideas, which I'll post here, my thinking cap is working on ideas with the Mom E. Assistant moniker for my daughter, as we await our Travel Approval to go to China to adopt her baby "Sistah!" (To see pix log on to TheVanitySite. Click on the China Girl link and you'll see our cutie pie!

2010-01-07T17:08:00.001-08:00

Click n' print n' enjoy! If part of the design gets cut off, try changing the print size in your print settings to 90 or 95%-- Creatively I'm between Thank You notes n' Valentine's day! I created this drawing of a girl holding a bursts of daises for a thank you note for our kindergarten teacher & a few others! As is often the case, the image is inspired by my young daughter. I plan to translate the drawing with long hair and a classic bob with bangs! I hope you enjoy! Collene

2010-01-05T07:21:00.000-08:00

And Thank You for the thank you emails for the downloadables! I'm having such creative blast posting ideas here! As always, I appreciate comments and/ or suggestions... and uhm, praise is sweet too! ;o)
Keep on clickin' by! Collene

2010-01-03T16:18:00.000-08:00

One can never have to many Thank You notes handy! I've posted a couple on my ChinaGirlLove store site but please enjoy this give-away. Just click n' print! I always test them out & this should lay out nicely on letter size paper. If not, try printing at let's say 95% of original size, which you can adjust in print settings. I created the same note with a long haired girl which is in my store but I will try to post her here as well! Enjoy!

2009-12-31T09:56:00.001-08:00

I'm feeling very Thankful today... Or I should say, I'm feeling like I need to create Thank You notes! Amazing how easy Christmas was as a kid; you thanked Santa & you were done!

In this era of email, I still like the hand-written thank you note!
Come on by later today & if I can manage my goal, I'll post a freebie Thank You note or two! I'm wondering if I can use the image in this post for Christmas Thank You notes? I created as part of a Princess Themed Birthday kit which included an invites and thank you notes.

2009-12-30T15:14:00.000-08:00

We just received our LOA [letter of acceptance] from China only weeks after being matched & being told it would take about 3 months! From this point the time-line for travel to China is about 10 - 12 weeks. (Gulp!) After waiting for 3+ years to be matched, the next 2 or so months will go by in a minute! I'm not jumping outta' my skin so much as I feel a certain level of peace or calm, just as I did the first time we adopted our daughter 5 years ago Christmastime.