I finally got myself some software to create my own PDF files. Not sure what took me so long, except that I always thought I had to buy the expensive Adobe software, but then discovered a much more economical alternative in ScanSoft. I am working on creating some registration forms for programs, here are three handy files to start — the first two are about the Abbey and my Offerings, the third is a 4-session retreat I am leading with my teaching partner Betsey Beckman in April (here in Seattle):
Abbey of the Arts Offerings Order Form
Embodying Easter: Practicing Resurrection — Women’s Art and Movement Retreat (Seattle)
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Making of Prayer Cards
I thought some of you might be interested in the process of creating those prayer card sets I make.
It starts with my handy HP Deskjet Printer, accompanied by the glossy premium photo paper and tri-color ink cartridges. (Well, technically the process really begins with the taking of the photos, processing the images, and writing the text on the back in the midst of time for reflection and prayer, but you get the idea.)
I print out the images onto an 8-1/2 x 11 inch sheet and then use my paper slicer to trim the images.
I trim the black border around the photos on the wider side and around the text on the narrow side so that the text portion does not overlap when I put them in the laminating sleeve. I have yet to find a really good option for front-and-back printing, so for now I settle for the imperfect nature of trying to line up two pieces of photo paper.
I make little piles for each set of cards.
I pull out my handy laminating sleeves in "prayer card" size.
I match the images with their corresponding text and line them up together.
My Pro-Lam 100 has been heating up already, then I switch on the motor and slide the laminating sleeves one by one through in their paper carriers that is supposed to protect the machinery.
Sometimes, if I am not careful, one will get stuck coming out and bend so that it has to be discarded and a new one created. Thankfully this doesn't happen too often.
Then I slide the set of prayer cards into these nifty cellophane envelopes that make them look so professional.
Stacked up and ready to slip into envelopes with along with a brochure, thank you note, and a business card.
Every step is a loving act of creation. When the work feels tedious, all I have to do is remind myself that I get to earn a small part of my living from my art and suddenly the work feels joyful again.
Makes you want to order yourself a set, doesn't it? 
You can hop on over to my Offerings page to peruse the possibilities (Discernment, Grief, Spring, Winter, and Autumn are all available) and email me your order, use the handy order form above, or click over to my Etsy store and order there. Pick up a copy of Praying With the Elements, Callings, or pre-order a copy of What is Blossoming Within You? while you're at it.
-Christine Valters Paintner @ Abbey of the Arts
your offerings are so plentiful and it is fun to see this process with you. i checked my calendar again, hoping i could join you and betsey for the april sessions; alas, i am out of town for two of the wednesdays and the fourth is my anniversary, so i will have to pass this time.
my order for prayer cards and "blossoming" will be up soon! congrats on your new software, it's always fun to get a new toy for creating. i am still having a love affair with my scanner
happy saturday!!!
You have really nice toys, Christine!
Hi Christine, I enjoyed your photos of the laminating process and congrats on your new program! Squeeee!
This is a fascinating process. BTW, if you're using a Mac, you can make PDF files without any extra software, just use the built-in "print to PDF" function.
too bad lucy! you can always sign up for just one session if you'd like to. yes, my scanner is another great toy!
thanks Suz and Bette!
Kievas, thank you for the advice to Mac using readers. very nice, I had no idea. I probably should have switched to Mac last year when we had to upgrade our computer.