Today I have a card for a friend that I have known for over 30 years.   I miss her terribly.  She is just one of those people that makes you laugh, and always makes you feel welcome.

My friend loves animals.  Before we moved to Arizona, she had two small dogs and a bird.  Whenever I see a bird or bird cage, I think of Maria and especially her bird.  I decided today to pull out my Tim Holtz' "caged bird". I hadn't planned on aging the paper, but when I was putting all of the pieces together, I decided to give it a distressed look.

I hope you enjoy!

Totally Tess Framed

Last year I got to know a dear woman.  Her name is Louise.  Her son mentioned to me yesterday that he had to call and wish her "happy birthday".  That got me to thinking that I would love to send her a card.  I admit in this extremely fast-paced, busy world, I have had a hard time sending out cards and this was an excuse to work on something.  I was going to make it very bright and flowery as that is what I think of when I think about my friend.

However, my daughter had been in my craft room and my Stampin' up "Tess" stamp was on my table.  I thought I could color her hair yellow so she looks a little like me so its like a personal greeting for my California friend.  I used my pleated satin ribbon to give it more texture.