Grandma's Birthday

For: This year's stranger
Occasion: Grandma's birthday

Each year in honor of my grandma's birthday, I make a card for someone I find in the phone book that has a name similar to hers. This year, I created a very happy 50s/60s version of Grandma Jan (in part inspired by a photo I found of her as I was cleaning out my apartment for the move). I love the colors and the big beaded necklace she is wearing.

On the inside, the big toothy grin reveals a "smile." I had a lot of fun making this card, and I hope Grandma and my stranger enjoy it.

Cello Birthday

For: Zach
Occasion: his birthday

I've always thought orchestral instruments looked like bearded faces, so for Zach's birthday card, I played up that idea and made this party hat-wearing cello! Like Cosby said, there's always room for cello.

Marching Band Birthday

For: Eileen
Occasion: her birthday

Eileen is an awesome saxophonist in her marching band, so I drew her up in her sweet digs (spats included!).

On the inside, the entire band is in a special formation just for the occasion. They spell out "Happy Birthday!" Note the sousaphones for dotted Is and exclamation points.

I hope Eileen had a wonderful day!

Birthday Stars

For: Anna

Occasion: her birthday

Anna Hoff is a very quirky and wonderful person, so I tried to make her a quirky and wonderful card. Stars and a Victorian couple and some kind of spaceship? Mission accomplished.

I miss Anna and hope she has a wonderful day and a wonderful summer!

Father's Day Dance

For: My dad
Occasion: Father's Day

To honor my wonderful father, I created a watercolor of a special daddy-daughter dance.

I love my dad and miss him so much.

USC Colors Birthday

For: Kathleen
Occasion: her birthday

Kathleen is in PT school at USC, so for her birthday card, I featured variations on the official school colors of cardinal and gold. Using painters tape to section off the watercolor paper, I created this lovely geometric design.

I miss Kathleen and hope she's having a wonderful summer!

Bridge Birthday

For: Nathan
Occasion: his birthday

Nathan is interested in bridges, so for his birthday card, I created two of them over a river. The metal or wires or rope-y parts of the structures have a secret message built in: "Happy Birthday!" I hope these bridges stand and Nathan has a great year!

Castle Birthday

For: Riley
Occasion: her birthday

Riley is a big fan of princesses and glitter, so for her card this year, I created a glittery princess castle. It doesn't show up well on this scan, but the turrets and door are very sparkly!

I hope Riles had a magical day!

Lettuce Birthday

For: Karly
Occasion: her birthday

Karly is a vegetarian, so for her card I featured some happy lettuce! The sign says, "It's your birthday! Lettuce celebrate!" And these are some of the most celebrating lettuce I have ever seen.

I hope she had a great day and it was tons of fun to go out to dinner with Karls and the gang to celebrate!

Cake Stand Birthday

For: Kathy
Occasion: her birthday

For Kathy's birthday card, I featured a cake tray with a floating cake on it. The message reads "Happy birthday to you!" and there's a cherry on top, of course!

I hope Kathy has a great day and is looking forward to a wonderful summer.

MSW graduation

For: Jess and Alyssa

Occasion: graduation

Jess graduated from UIC, so her signature is followed by a big and bold "MSW" in Flames colors--red and blue. 

Alyssa got hers from UChicago, so her "MSW" is in maroon and white/gray.

I am so proud of these ladies, and beyond delighted that all three of us CCP MSWs are graduated and employed! I miss them and wish them well as we all begin our social work careers. 

Gradient Birthday

For: Lydia
Occasion: her birthday

For Lydia's birthday card, I cut different sized strips of water color paper and painted the same red to light orange gradient on each of them. Staggered, they line up to spell out a "Happy Birthday" wish!

I hope Lyds had a great day and is starting off an even better summer!