Life is a Journey and like Dorothy, I am thankful for the friends, I’ve met along the way, who have taken this journey with me. This concept is key when I was inspired by Eileen Hull’s “suitcase” die cut by Ellison/Sizzix and, like Dorothy and the friends she met along her way, I’ve found my way back home thanks to my friends. These last eighteen months, after losing our daughter Kelly to breast cancer, it’s been my friends who have given me support, helped me find love in my heart again, and shown me courage to help me continue on my journey.
One of my dearest friends, Ellen Hutson, who I’ve come to lean on considerably, has even designed a ruby slipper to complete this profound project of mine. I’m in awe of every one of her shoe creations, but I have to say, this ruby slipper is the best ever! It became the perfect “vessel” to show off my red poppies--the ones that put Dorothy and her companions to sleep and the symbol of my state of mind after such a great loss.
Lastly, I have to mention Graphic 45’s “Magic of Oz” paper that finishes the project. The gingham design for Dorothy’s suitcase is a perfect match and the “cards of the characters” gives the box a familiar look to enhance the story. However, it’s not just a story I’ve watched on television as a child based on the book, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum, but a greater meaning I’ve discovered watching it as an adult.
These little suitcases can hold the most wonderful “treasures”! And, just like my mother, I love chocolate, and always have a stash when I need some!
The Scarecrow’s Suitcase--he thinks he lacks a brain, but his common sense helps guide this unusual group and develop a plan to save Dorothy in their quest to reach the Wizard so she can return home to Auntie Em and Uncle Henry in Kansas.
The Cowardly Lion--a sweet character, afraid of his own shadow until his friends need him. He has the courage to help Dorothy in her most perilous situations.
The Tin Man--probably my favorite, who longs for a heart from the Wizard. However, he has the biggest heart of all and puts his friends first when they need him. I felt as if a piece of my heart was gone when Kelly died and relate to the Tin Man seeking one. My friends have put warmth back into my heart as I continue on my journey.
I hope you all think about the friends in your life that you take with you on Life’s Journey when you look at this project--I know I do and feel so blessed by their presence.
Ruby Slipper Downloadable Template with PDF Instructions - coming soon!
Eileen Hull’s Suitcase die cut by Ellison
Ranger: Foil Tape Sheet
Distress Ink: Vintage Photo and Walnut Stain
Craft-a-board by Ellen Hutson
Crinoline fabric (about 1/8 yd), Raffia, Sculpy Clay, Viva Pearl Pen/Black, Masonite box, Montana Gold Acrylic Paint/7090 Coke, Brads - Copper, Silver, Bronze, Red
Graphic 45 - “The Magic of Oz” Yellow Brick Road and Journey to Oz
Flower Soft - Shamrock Green and Ultra Fine Black
Crafter’s Pick “The Ultimate” glue
Copic Markers - R14, R29, 100
Poppy: Punches - Punch Bunch: Medium Begonia Petals, Small Alpine Snowflake, Small Sun, Small Grape Leaf
Neenah Solar White Cardstock, Green & Black cardstock
