Gathered Truths

I'm so excited to finally share this project today. This one took a lot of perseverance. I'm so glad I stuck with it because I love the final product!

I am a quote hoarder. I can't read a book or watch a movie without writing something down that relates to my life. The problem is I always keep them on sticky notes. I have many unorganized piles of notes full of thoughts and quotes I have gathered over the years. I have never found a way to have all of them in one spot that inspires me until I saw this in the Sundance Catalog. How lovely!

365 Gathered Truths

This box is full of 365 quotes printed on handmade paper. I felt this was the perfect way to organize my quotes, have them easily accessible, and have a great display item all in one! I knew this was something I could make. It would also be more personal considering I would use the quotes I had gathered! Added bonus... I'm saving myself $98! Yes, you heard me right, that's what this costs! Here is my version finally finished.

This project ended up being a lot more trouble than I thought it would be. I began by hunting for the perfect handmade paper. This was not an easy task for the price, but I ended up finding 140lb. watercolor paper on sale at Michaels. I love the texture and the thickness.

After purchasing my paper, it occurred to me that the thick paper wouldn't feed through a normal at-home printer. I began to visit every copy/office shop I could find. This paper would not feed through the machines! I began to give up on this fantastic idea of mine. After a few weeks of stewing about my failed project, my little sister mentioned trying the copy machine they have at the school where she teaches. Sure enough, the paper fed through and I couldn't have been more excited and grateful for her help!

I typed about 65 quotes using different fonts that resembled a typewriter. Each card was cut at 3 1/2in by 2 1/2in and I tore one edge with a Paper Tear Edger. My Mom helped with painting the cheese box with red craft paint leaving some of the wood exposed for an older, distressed look. I found the metal label at Jo-ann Fabrics and held it in place with two tacks.

I can keep adding to my box as I gather future quotes. The whole project was worth the hassle. I'm so happy with having my quotes all organized in one place. I also love having them on display to share inspiration with others!

I think this calls for a quote.

 "There is always a way, even if it seems impossible.

In the face of impossible become inspired."

{linked up to}

Otherwise

 

Otherwise

Jane Kenyon

I got out of bed
on two strong legs.
It might have been
otherwise. I ate
cereal, sweet
milk, ripe, flawless
peach. It might
have been otherwise.
I took the dog uphill
to the birch wood.
All morning I did
the work I love.

At noon I lay down
with my mate. It might
have been otherwise.
We ate dinner together
at a table with silver
candlesticks. It might
have been otherwise.
I slept in a bed
in a room with paintings
on the walls, and
planned another day
just like this day.
But one day, I know,
it will be otherwise.

We tend to always plan things out, but what about the otherwise? We know in our hearts that there will always be that time. And in that time God will always see us through. He will not leave us comfortless.

Paraphrased from Pastor Norm

I wrote this Monday morning in hopes to publish it today. As my Monday progressed, the more otherwise I ran into. It was very ironic how I stumbled upon these thoughts when I needed it most. Hope this inspires you at just the right moment.