Through my Shutter

Lost and Found

2011-02-27T14:05:00.000-08:00

It has been so long since I've picked up my adhesive runner and paper trimmer! I've been inspired to do something.... anything.... for awhile now. I just haven't been able to find any inspiration to put ink to paper.

I went on an amazing blog hop today and have seen so much inspiration and am ready to try my hand at this latest sketch from their site.

I was such an avid scrapper for so many years.... I started out as a hobby, then as a consultant for a scrappy company, then a message board.. to a website..... to an online store... to selling kits and mailing out more than my postman wanted to carry to his truck each day.

I was creative and happy and saw beauty in the world in a way that has been lost to me for these years since.

I saw different beauty in the world.... the beauty of a baby girl named Jenna as she entered this world and became part of my heart. I went from a mom of 2 to a mom of 3 and life changed drastically. Now........ my journey takes another turn with the addition of our 4th child soon and even though life will be crazier and busier than EVER before.... I want the eyes of a creative soul back and am ready to embrace ART and babies all at the same time!

Blogs have changed since I posted daily, you tube now shows videos of everything you can think of, and websites galleries are all filled with different people showcasing different talents.

I feel like I'm taking a small piece of myself back, but not in a selfish way. It is a piece that I use to share the lives of those closest to me. I'm excited to get started.

I'm excited. Just 2 words, but words that carry so much meaning.

Thanks so much to the ladies of http://www.sketchsupport.com for helping me find my voice again.

Now off to find some paper to cut up!

Saying goodbye to a good friend...

2010-03-15T12:05:00.001-07:00

We were forced to say Goodbye to our dear, Dash this past week.

His heart murmur got the better of him, we think. It was a dark dark day around here having to tell Jake that his best bud is gone.

Go BULLS!!!!!!

2010-02-18T14:10:00.000-08:00

Jordan just got her acceptance to USF!!!!!

We... I mean SHE has worked so hard to get into a good college and I... I mean SHE is so excited!

She applied to 2 other schools and we are waiting to hear from them. She will then decide her path and follow her dreams into adulthood and college life.

Go Bulls!

Feelin' FINE in '09~

2009-01-09T18:50:00.000-08:00

New year.

New seasons of life for all of us.

My first New Year's Eve that passed without being able to call Mom at the moment the ball drops to scream HAPPY NEW YEAR'S!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It was a thing of ours.

That New Year's Eve phone call.

It happened each and every year since I married and left home.

Every year.... until this year.

It was painful to watch that ball drop and knowing that I could not call and shout it in her ear and hear her laughing at our silly tradition.

Just another reminder that this is the Start of a new season for me.

A season without all the little things that Mom and I shared.

It also showed me that this is a new season for me and my daughter. A year to start our own traditions and little things that we do without thinking on a yearly basis.

I was thinking about that very thing when my own phone rang at a few minutes after midnight.

I answered the phone and it was Jordan, my wonderful daughter, screaming HAPPY NEW YEAR'S MOM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I suddenly realized that moments like that will live within my heart forever and I'll cherish them each and every year that she calls me.

Sometimes it really feels good to think that maybe.... JUST maybe..... you have done something right in raising your kids.

So... to my wonderful Mom shining down upon me now.... Happy New Year's Eve and may our little tradition live on through Jordan now.

Such a special day.......

2008-11-04T05:15:00.000-08:00

Today is November 4th. Yes, it is a day for the Presidential Election.

That is NOT why it is so special to me.

Today is a day of reflection.

19 years ago, as very young and naive girl of only 18 years old walked down the aisle of a lil' Georgia church towards a man that was to be her husband.

This man was only 19. Looking back now, this 'man' was really just a boy just like I was just a girl. We were so young.

Our daughter is about to turn 17 years old in a couple weeks. I met my destiny and my love when I was only 17.

It was at the age of 17 that I decided that I wanted this man and only this man for the rest of my life. I can not imagine the heartbreak we would both feel if she came home today with the sentence of.... "I am going to marry this guy!"

I know that our parents had major reservations about our decision. I think everyone had major reservations about our decision. Everyone, except for us.

I looked into your eyes and you showed me your heart and your soul. I knew that I would only find true love there and that is what you have shown me ever since.

Little did I know that I was walking that aisle towards a man with so much love for me that he would stand with me during the hardest times of my life.

That this man of only 19 years old, would be so strong that the foundation of his Faith could not be shaken. His heart so large that it would grow to love his new wife and their children that would follow in years to come.

I could not have known that the man I walked towards would turn into the best Father to my children, and show them the amazing love and devotion that he would shower upon me.

I could never have known that when he said "I do" to the vow of 'in sickness and in health" he really would sit with me while I cried over a diagnosis and assure me that everything would be alright.

I didn't know that he would become the Dr that I needed and give me the medication at the time I needed, then stand with me as I became sick because of it.

I didn't know that he would dance with our daughter, as she put her tiny feet upon his as he taught her to dance. I didn't know that he would stand at 1st base just so our son would see his Daddy's proud face as he ran to first base after hitting the ball.

I didn't know any of this.

I do know all of this now. I don't know what the next 19 years will bring or what you will be at that time.

I do know this.... I know that you are the man that holds my heart and my soul. You are the man that I dream of each night and am blessed to wake up to each morning. I know that I am blessed beyond measure to have you in my life.

There are so many flashes of memories of times that I realized I didn't deserve you. So many times you were strong for me, while feeling crushed and helpless inside.

When you rushed home to hold me after that call from the Dr. When you sat with me at Denny's and I could not find a word for syrup and the waitress was in a hurry and you gave me such a sweet look and waited patiently while I found the words.

I can never find the words to express my love and devotion to you, my love.

You are my everything. My heart is yours and you've taken such good care of it for all these years.

I promise that I will spend the next 19 years trying to show you that I would not trade a moment of our lives for anything in this world!

With all my love, all my heart, all my prayers.........

Happy Anniversary, my dear Chris!

I love you always.

Thank you for calling.. How may I help you today????

2008-11-03T00:03:00.000-08:00

Well, for those wondering where I've wandered to.... I've wandered only as far as my laptop and headset!

I am in training now to work from home for a cable company.... I'm training to stand at the ready to answer the most off the wall question about your bill you can come up with!

Ohhhh, I once thought I'd just answer and say ' yooooo yooo, wat up dawg? whur your payment is? We not got it yet, so whuritat?'

But, that is NOT the script I was given! Alas, it is a bit more difficult that I once thought.

Alas, they expect... no... they DEMAND that I actually KNOW something about the company!

So, I'm hidden away in training each day so that I can explain the complexities of Hubs and Trunks and Truck Rolls and NODS, etc to the average customer calling to cancel his HBO or 'try' to get out of paying for the 10 ADULT movies that somehow just showed up on his bill!

For those who know me well, you know that there MUST be some sort of funny or ironic story to this.... otherwise, it just wouldn't fit with my life story.

You, my dear friends, are not wrong.

As it turns out..... in a world of working from home.... 'getting to work' consists of me loggin into my own cable company / Internet and signing into work. In other words, to 'drive' to work... I just log in.

(don't get jealous yet... I've not even told you that I get to work in my jammies while watching TV and sipping coco)

My own Internet decided that an easy life was not meant to be for me!

Yes, my Internet died.

The line went dead.

The lights stopped blinking and the computer cried foul.

I had to call in to my supervisor at the cable company I work for to say 'I can't log into work today because my own cable is out.'

The irony of it is just too much for me to take!

So, as I sit and wait for my cable guy tomorrow...

the THIRD one since Friday might I add.....

I will have to get out of my work clothes, aka my jammies... and actually clean the house instead of having headset on and watching Regis and Kelly!

Times ARE tough, my friends. Times are tough!

Recession-ista Lisa tip for d'day

2008-11-03T00:01:00.000-08:00

Want a yummy freebie?

yyyyuuummmmmmmmm.................

http://freechexbar.bettycrocker.com/TurtleChexBar/

Tips from the Recession-ista!

2008-10-08T14:06:00.000-07:00

A new feature........

Tips from the Recession-ista Lisa!!!!

Feel free to send in your tips - be sure to give all details and your name/state and you can earn your Recession-ista status!!!

We all are trying to save where and when we can, and as women... we are our OWN best resource! Let's share what has saved your family the most!!!!

Our first tip:

Make Your Own Frozen Waffles

Instead of buying store bought frozen waffles, I used to spend one Saturday morning cooking up a huge batch of homemade waffles and then would stick them in the freezer. When the kids wanted waffles, I would just pull out a frozen waffle and pop it in the toaster.

Economical and efficient.

Now I use the Aunt Jemima Mix, 20 waffles for $2.69 compared with Eggo Waffles, 10 waffles for $2.50.

Enjoy the weekly tips! Do you have a website that you stalk for tips/deals?

Clear Artistic Stamps

2008-10-04T12:03:00.000-07:00

I was proud to be the Guest Designer for Clear Artistic Stamps for October. They have the most beautiful stamps to work with and I wanted to share my projects.

Click here to visit my Guest Design Spotlight Page

I worked with these stamp sets:
Delicate Moments

and Whispers of Dreams.

Here are a few of the cards that I made from these sets.

Email from a guy against the bailout of AIG... brillant!~

2008-09-29T05:28:00.000-07:00

I got this in my email box this morning and think it is brilliant! These are great economics, IMHO so I wanted to share.

Here is the email:

I'm against the $85,000,000,000 bailout of AIG.

Instead, I'm in favor of giving $85,000,000,000 to America in
a ''We Deserve It Dividend''.

To make the math simple, let's assume there are 200,000,000
bonafide U.S. Citizens 18+.

Our population is about 301,000,000 +/- counting every man, woman
and child. So 200,000,000 might be a fair stab at adults 18 and up..
So divide 200 million adults 18+ into $85 billon that equals $425,000.

My plan is to give $425,000 to every person 18+ as a
'We Deserve It Dividend'.

Of course, it would NOT be tax free.

So let's assume a tax rate of 30%.

Every individual 18+ has to pay $127,500.00 in taxes.

That sends $25,500,000,000 right back to Uncle Sam.

But it means that every adult 18+ has $297,500 in their pocket.
A husband and wife has $595,000.

What would you do with $297,500 to $595,000 in your family?

Pay off your mortgage - housing crisis solved.

Repay college loans - what a great boost to new grads

Put away money for college - it'll be there

Save in a bank - create money to loan to entrepreneurs.

Buy a new car - create jobs

Invest in the market - capital drives growth

Pay for your parent's medical insurance - health care improves

Enable Deadbeat Dads to come clean - or else

Remember this is for every adult U S Citizen 18+ including the folks
who lost their jobs at Lehman Brothers and every other company
that is cutting back.

And of course, for those serving in our Armed Forces.

If we're going to re-distribute wealth let's really do it...

instead of trickling out a puny $1000.00 ('vote buy') economic incentive that is being proposed by one of our candidates for President.

If we're going to do an $85 billion bailout, let's bail out every adult U S Citizen 18+!

As for AIG - liquidate it.

Sell off its parts.

Let American General go back to being American General.

Sell off the real estate.

Let the private sector bargain hunters cut it up and clean it up.

Here's my rationale. We deserve it and AIG doesn't.

Sure it's a crazy idea that can 'never work.'

But can you imagine the Coast-To-Coast Block Party!

How do you spell Economic Boom?

I trust my fellow adult Americans to know how to use the $85 Billion
'We Deserve It Dividend' more than I do the geniuses at AIG or in Washington DC .

And remember, The Family plan only really costs $59.5 Billion because $25.5 Billion is returned instantly in taxes to Uncle Sam.

Ahhh...I feel so much better getting that off my chest.
Kindest personal regards,
A Creative Guy & Citizen of the Republic.

Thursday musings....

2008-08-28T11:49:00.000-07:00

Ever do something that just makes your heart and soul SMILE?

I helped my son's class today do a 'cooking' unit.

The Teacher asked me yesterday if I would like to help and I jumped at the chance. You see, when I was working Full Time for the bossholes.... I could not help in his class. I could not stay home with them when they were sick.

I couldn't leave to meet their teachers or have lunch with them. That is all over now. ALL over.

The look on my son's face when I walked into his room today to help was pure MAGIC! He ran up for a hug and thanked me for helping and told me ' I am es-sighted for you to he'p me Mom!'

I was totally 'es-sighted' to be able to help!

It has been a financial struggle since leaving my job. It has NOT been an emotional struggle for me.

I have to get a few more shows on my calendar for next month so that I can continue to stay home and see that excited beautiful lil face of his when I get to help at school.

I just have to.

It made me think about when my Mom helped at my school when I was little. I don't think I was that excited about it, in fact I remember trying to tell her the teacher changed her mind and didn't need help... ha!

Looking back now, I should have cherished those time with my own Mom. I should have sat back and watched her more. I should have listened more. I should have told her that I was excited for her to help.

I am missing her today because I always enjoyed talking to her about what I did when I worked at the kid's schools. We would carry on about how education has changed, how the teachers and schools are different and all the typical things that moms and daughters talk about day to day.

Nothing really important.

All of it .... important. All of it trivial.

All of it... missed very much.

I miss you Mom!

In just one word............

2008-08-27T12:03:00.000-07:00

I tagged everyone to do this one. Just leave the link to your in my comments so I can see how you did.

When you do this - remember that you can only use ONE word as your reply.
Only one.

It's not as easy as it seems!...

1. Where is your cell phone? pocket
2. Where is your significant other? working
3. Your hair? ponytail
4. Your mother? Gone
5. Your father? Remarried
6. Your favorite thing? Roomba
7. Your dream last night? unfinished
8. Your dream/goal? Peace
9. The room you're in? Front
10. Your hobby? scrapbooking
11. Your fear? loneliness
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Love
13. Where were you last night? home
14. What you're not? modest
15. One of your wish list items?GPS
16. Where you grew up? rural
17. Thing you are good at? Photography
18. First kiss? sloppy
19. The last thing you did? shopped
20. What are you wearing? t
21. Your TV? loud
22. Your pet/pets? sleeping
23. Your computer? necessity
24. Your mood? hormonal
25. Missing someone? mother
26. Your car? driveway
27. Something you're not wearing? hairbow
28. Favorite store? www.
29. Your summer? FLORIDA
30. Love someone? YEPPPPPPPP
31. Your favorite color? blue
32. When is the last time you laughed? currently
33. Last time you cried? Wednesday

POW for Cooridinate Collections

2008-08-19T10:21:00.000-07:00

I got to work with some fun Overlays from Fancy Pants and Heidi Swapp this week for Cooridinate Collections.

Click here to view my post at CC. http://www.coordinatescollections.com/phpBB/viewtopic.php?t=5139

Here are the projects I completed with the wonderful POW products! CC has these items on SALE at the CC Store (click on STORE) on the website if you just have to have some!

Women of Faith Conference

2008-08-18T13:52:00.000-07:00

WoW !!! What an amazing weekend {my tired footsies will give a different account}.

I served as an Usher for the Women Of Faith, Infinate Grace Conference this past weekend and was so touched by the stories and lives of the women there.

I LOVED getting to hang with the 'celebs' and doing the 'security' for their book signings. I got to know several of them on a personal level and have to say that they all are very down to earth and are passionate about sharing their love for Jesus.

After waking at 530am on Friday and heading downtown, signing in and meeting the Secret Service type guys that gave us our 'duties' -- we headed down to the FLOOR section to help people with the seats on the floor level.

Once the Pre-conference started, we sat down and enjoyed the show.

Anita Renfroe was even MORE funny than I thought she would be! She had us all in tears laughing so hard and is a sweet heart. She was sweet to her fans as we got them through her line as she signed and snapped photos with everyone. She thanked me for helping with the event and said they couldn't do it without the endless volunteers that are serving, so she was very geniune and sweet about that.

We chatted about jewelry, as she was wearing a really awesome set! She spoke at the Premier Designs Conference in July, and I told her that I'd be happy to book a party for her and help her earn lots of FREE Jewelry. ;)

Patsy Clairmont and Jan Silvious were at the Preconference with Anita, and they were both a joy to watch.

After a short break for lunch, I headed upstairs to be the 'bouncer/security' for the Meet and Greet and got a chance to meet and chat with Sandi Patty, Louise DuArt, Patsy Clairmont and a few others. What an HONOR to meet Sandi Patty!

I told her that we chose one of her songs as our wedding song. She asked how she did.. I told her the wedding was almost 19 years ago so she must have done something right! She was 100% down to earth and wanted to give hugs and smiles and was a blessing to all around her.

Louise DuArt and I chatted a bit about her show, Living the Life. I love that show and TiVo it regularly and was very happy she did not ask me if I enjoyed her skits on the show. ;) She and her husband wrote, Couples Who Pray, and we talked about the importance of prayer in a marriage.

The evening part of the conference was just as fun, just not as celeb filled.... until we did the book signings.

Nicole C Mullen is an AMAZING lady with the voice of an angel and the heart for her fans that was soooo touching!

We had a lady in the line that told us of how her brother had been killed in an auto accident, and her mother played Nicole's song, WHEN YOU CALL ON JESUS, at his funeral. She was very emotional, as you can imagine. Nicole spoke with her for a long time and ministered to her grief and SPOKE ON THE CELL PHONE TO THE MOTHER.... it was such a touching moment for everyone blessed to witness the healing powers of Nicole Mullen taking 5 min to touch the lives of her fans.

Nicole was in tears, the fans were in tears, we were in tears as we tried moving more fans through the lines.

After the lady left the line with a signature and a smile, Nicole said through teary eyes that is THE Reason she gets up each day. She was lifted and felt blessed to have shared such a moment with a fan and her mom.

I am now the #1 fan of Nicole C Mullen after witnessing how she loves to share the gospel and to know she is touching lives and really feels blessed to do so. NOT to mention, her songs are totally RAWKIN'.

Shelia Walsh was the only one that I didn't have a face to face conversation with throughout the event, but her speech was touching.

Natalie Grant.... WHAT do I say about this lady? You just get chills listening to her sing. I told her about the special meaning her song, In Better Hands, has for me.

I heard the song just before Mom was diagnosed with Lung Cancer. Mom and I watched the video while she was at Hospice and we were both in tears together and without a word exchanged both sat in silence and grief.

She has the most precious twin daughers and they were dancing around and walking with those chunky little legs that were just sooooo sweet. You should see the way they both watched her as she sang and spoke. We were sitting just at the stage in the front row and when she sang that song and she glanced at me, I felt such a peace about Mom being in Better Hands.

To see her pray between each song was a very special moment that I'll not soon forget.

I was the one ushering those through her line so we chatted throughout the signing and to see how she interacted with fans was amazing. You would swear she was the girl next door with the way she opened her arms for hugs to everyone and made them feel like they were old friends.

Was it worth being on my feet for 15 hours each day? Absolutely. Will I do it next year? I'll let you know when the blisters go down. ;)

I left with a knowledge that the Christian 'celebs' that you'd expect to treat their fans like other celebs do.... don't treat them like FANS at all.

They treated them like family.

They treated them like Sisters.

They treated them like Sisters in Christ.

For that..... it was worth being on my feet that long.

So.... anyone needs any info on the Sports Forum... I can tell ya where every bathroom is and every consession stand! LOL

Summer Classes in Session Now at TSoS!!!!

2008-07-07T06:27:00.000-07:00

Visit

http://www.theschoolofscrap.com

and sign up for some fun classes this Summer at Summer School!

We all love shortcuts!

2008-06-20T10:50:00.000-07:00

Sheetloads has a sister site now that giving away some blog candy!

Click HERE for some SWEET blog Candy!!!!!

Club Scrap June kit '08

2008-06-16T10:46:00.000-07:00

A couple cards and a layout using Club Scrap's June '08 ~ Haberdashery Kit!

LOVE LOVE the richness of this kit! Check them out at www.clubscrap.com.

Surpirse Attack

2008-06-14T18:35:00.001-07:00

I admit it..... silly things make me laugh these days and this is NO exception.

Do you TWITTER?

2008-06-12T10:19:00.000-07:00

Ok, AS IF I need another total addiction.......

If you twitter, you can relate. If you don't twitter, then you WILL once you set up your account.

It is a micro-blog type site where you post tiny posts, even from cell phones etc. You 'follow' your friends and the posts are funny and interesting and short!

If you Twitter, let me know so I can follow you!

www.twitter.com

How fast can you type?

2008-04-25T13:11:00.000-07:00

I saw this on a friend's blog and thought it was fun fun fun!

I've always wondered how fast I can type, and the answer is..........

79 words

Have an hour to kill?

2008-04-20T09:46:00.001-07:00

Play this.........

http://magic.pen.fizzlebot.com/

The reason I've been MIA.....

2008-04-17T06:41:00.000-07:00

I am sad to say that the reason that I've been MIA on blogging is that I've been out of town with my very ill mother this past month.

She was very ill, then got the news from the Dr while I was there that it is Cancer. That awful, dreaded word.

It is Stage 4 and has spread to almost every organ and there is no treatment when it is this advanced.

She made the choice to go home and have Hospice care and I'm numb that I can't be with her and helping get her the meds that would be making her better.

To follow her progress, check out:

http://www.fayedavisupdate.blogspot.com

Please keep us in your prayers as we try to learn to cope with this news and the eventual outcome.

Words have great power....

2008-03-20T11:58:00.000-07:00

Something jumped out at me today.... Words are SOOO Powerful. A husband saying "I'm sorry" to a wife that has felt unloved can bring a healing to a heart that is awe inspiring. Words used in anger, ESPECIALLY towards our children can do more damage than we will ever know. (Only their therapist in about 20 years will know how deeply you hurt them)

I ran across a list of words never to say to your kids, then this list of what you can't say enough of. I am choosing not to post the list of things NOT to say.... I'm afraid that so many of us do most of that list on a daily basis, and I want to focus on lifting UP our Children! Growing them into strong and independent Adults that will look back on their childhood and say, "Mom told me she loved me each and every day of my life!"

Post a comment and tell me how many of these things you have said to your child today:

Words You Can’t Say Enough to a Child

1.It is such a blessing to be your mom.
2.You’re an incredible person.
3.You did that so well.
4.If more kids were like you, the world would be a better place.
5.It’s so good to be with you.
6.You’re the best!
7.You are such a nice person.
8.You’re learning fast.
9.You mean so much to me.
10.You are very bright.
11.You have unlimited potential.
12.You’re on the right track now.
13.You’re getting the hang of it.
14.That’s the best you’ve ever done.
15.You’re getting better every day.
16.You’re such a quick learner.
17.I appreciate your attitude.
18.I can tell you are trying.
19.I knew you could do it.
20.Keep up the good work.
21.You are a real trooper.
22.You did a great job.
23.I believe in you.
24.You’re going to go far in life.
25. If someone lined up all the four-year-olds (use your child’s age) in the world and told me I could pick any one I wanted, I’d choose you.

My Layout Jar

2008-03-12T21:21:00.000-07:00

I saw this idea on a friend's blog (waving HELLO to Mary) and I thought it was a GREAT idea!

I'm not one to count layouts as I do them, and at the end of 2007 when everyone was saying how many layouts they had done ~ I had NO idea how many I had completed that year.

So, when I saw this I fell in love with the idea of a Layout Jar!

For EACH layout / project that I complete, I add one button to this jar. Then, at the end of the year I can count them or just look at the FULL jar and know that I did my part to use up that stash in my scraproom.

If nothing else, it is showing Chris that I'm using up some stuff... even though he can't tell anything is missing. He claims it is like taking one small spec of sand away from the beach after each trip and thinking you could notice a spot that is empty.

My original plan was to use pretty buttons so it would be pretty to look at all year, then realized that I didn't want to use up my pretty buttons in this jar - I want them for the layouts! So I am using the little buttons that I would never use on a layout.

I've been doing this since January 1st 2008 and this photo was taken the second week or so of January so it is getting more and more buttons!

Do you have a button jar? How do you keep count of your layouts? Do you finish enough in a year to justify a jar? I'm curious and would LOVE to hear your comments on how you keep up with your totals!

Ok, back to scrappin... I'm determined to fill up that jar!

KI Lace Cardstock

2008-02-25T06:14:00.000-08:00

I had the opportunity to work with KI Lace Cardstock this week for the Product of the Week showcase over at Coordinate Collections and love all the ways to use this Lace Cardstock! You can use a bit for a splash of color, or use the entire sheet. Thanks for looking!

General Lee says Early Spring!

2008-02-02T12:42:00.000-08:00

Many people trust in the Poxy-tawny Phil (said in true Southern Belle drawl) for their forcasts on Grounghog Day. NOT ME!

I trust in one Groundhog only! The General Beau - regard LEE of the Famed Yellow River Game Ranch in Stone Mtn, Ga.

Click HERE to see what ol' Beau had to say this morning:

http://www.yellowrivergameranch.com/08groundhogday.htm

Each day is a new masterpiece!

2008-01-19T16:52:00.000-08:00

During our Christmas trip home, I got to meet a very special little person! My newest nephew, Mason. He is a precious baby and this photo is of his Daddy holding him. Mason is only 2 weeks and sooo precious!

Each day IS a new masterpiece!

This week's Product of the Week for Coordinates Collections.com

2008-01-02T11:00:00.000-08:00

For this week's Product of the Week ( 12/31 ) I got to play with Making Memories Noteworthy Kit for Coordinates Collections and wanted to share here!

Year end Show and TELL

2007-12-31T14:15:00.000-08:00

Prima ---- I am sooo lovin' the 12x12 Embossed chipboard sheets!!!!

Paper Trunk.... You haven't scrapped until you have used Paper Trunk papers! They are amazing and you'll fall in love too. They are dreamy and romantic!

This photo cracks me up because it is basically all I see of Jordan now when I point the Camera at her. lol The poor life of a scrapbooker's child!
PRIMA -----

If you have not had a chance to use the Embossed 12x12 Chipboard, then RUN don't walk and get some of this. This sheet was super easy! I inked the raised parts and using the CropADile added 3 rings and made this an album cover!

I will never tire of scrapping these beautiful little faces!

Some Christmas Layouts

2007-12-15T17:36:00.000-08:00

Christmas is right around the corner, here are a few Christmas Layouts to share.

My Christmas Tree project

2007-12-03T09:29:00.000-08:00

I got to work with this Great Melissa Francis Christmas Tree Chipboard Open Album for Coordinates Collections for the Product of The Week ( 12/3/07) and am loving how it turned out!

Time to Hang the LIGHTS

2007-11-27T18:14:00.000-08:00

It is that time again!!!!!!!!!

Time to hang the lights and flip the switch! My FAVORITE time of year!

Here is my honey putting them up...............

Merry Christmas EVERYONE!

My first Turkey!

2007-11-24T16:03:00.000-08:00

Ok, it is OFFICIAL. I am a grown up. I cooked my very first turkey this year for Thanksgiving! It was a huge hit with the gang, but then again..... they had low expectations for it. LOL

BEFORE----->

After --->

Ever Feel Like THIS???????

2007-11-19T14:01:00.000-08:00

So, ever feel like this? After Jordan's bday party, I sure feel like I took a few slides down this thing.

haaaaaaaaa

but...

we
survived.

Everything..........

2007-10-21T09:50:00.000-07:00

This video found me today, and it is a very powerful video. I hope it find you and you share it with everyone. It is a beautiful way to show all the struggles facing so many. Please watch to the very end.

Want to be a KID again? JOIN ME..........

2007-10-01T21:39:00.000-07:00

This is a challenge to everyone reading this post!

We all want to be a carefree and fun loving KID again, but we are afraid! AFRAID of what other 'adults' will think of us. Well, they may just think we have the RIGHT IDEA and join us.

So, join me in becoming a KID again.

How do we do this? You ask... {I know you ask because that is what grown ups do... ask a ton of questions they already KNOW the answer to}

I have a list of fun ways to become a KID again.

EACH day in October... pick ONE... YES, just ONE a day....... and do it! Try it! At least for a little while and see how it makes you feel. What do you have to loose?

Come ON... I DOUBLE DAWG DARE YA!

Since most of us are Scrapbookers, be sure to snap a photo of your adventure daily and share here with us. Feel free to post them in the Gallery at The School of Scrap and link us up here in the comments.

So who is going to be a KID again with me?

Here is what you can do to feel like a KID again:

1. Do a cartwheel.

2. Sing into your hairbrush.

3. Walk barefoot in wet grass.

4. Play a song you like really loud … over and over.

5. Dot all your "I"s with smiley faces.

6. Read the funnies. Throw the rest of the paper away.

7. Dunk your cookies.

8. Play a game where you make up the rules as you go along.

9. Step carefully over sidewalk cracks.

10. Change into some play clothes.

11. Try to get someone to trade you a better sandwich.

12. Eat ice cream for breakfast.

13. Kiss a frog - just in case.

14. Blow the wrapper off a straw.

15. Have someone read you a story.

16. Find some pretty stones and save them.

17. Wear your favorite shirt with your favorite pants - even if they don't match.

18. Take a running jump over (or into) a big puddle.

19. Beg someone to buy you something you really dont need.

20. Hide your vegetables under your napkin.

21. Stay up past your bedtime.

22. Eat dessert first.

23. Fuss a little then take a nap.

24. Wear red gym shoes.

25. Put way too much sugar on your cereal.

26. Make cool screeching noises every time you turn a corner.

27. Giggle a lot for no reason at all.

28. Give yourself a gold star for everything you do today.

30. RACE a child to the end of the street!

NOW..................... Doesn't that feel GREAT???????????????????????

William Tell Overture for Moms

2007-09-27T08:35:00.001-07:00

She has condensed what a Mom says in a 24 hr day to 2 1/2 min! Turn up your speakers and get ready to giggle.

Recent Layouts to share

2007-09-25T16:57:00.000-07:00

I have been on a scrapping frenzy for all the Sponsors over at The School of Scrap and wanted to load a few to show. Thanks for looking, find them all at http://www.theschoolofscrap.com/

6 letters that changed my life...

2007-09-13T15:03:00.000-07:00

You would never think that such a tiny word like STROKE would make such a difference in your life, until it is used in a sentence involving a parent.

The Drs used it in a sentence with my Dad on Labor Day.

Then they found a blockage of an artery which needed immediate surgery.

3 more little letters that just plain suck... I.C.U. as in, Intensive Care Unit.

4 letters that made the world of difference: P - R - A - Y

If you pray, please pray for his speedy recovery and being able to get home. If you don't pray, then send healing vibes his way.

My Dad was at the brink of possibly not coming back, then ran back with avengance. He has had daily progress and STILL has a very long road ahead of him.

My Daddy is Superman. My Daddy is my Hero. My Daddy is my Heart. My Daddy is now in Rehabilitation to work on walking, balance, speech and self help. My Daddy is my Hero more than ever.

He is about to have his 74th Birthday in a week or so and this was his first time EVER in the Hospital. The Stroke was his Kriptonite. His stroke was also my Kriptonite.

I learned lessons I never wanted to learn:

Nurses don't always have the best answers.
The one in the bed and unable to speak NEEDS someone there to speak for them.
The patient NEEDS an advocate, even at 1am
the childhood saying of "Sticks and Stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me" is NOT true. Words DO hurt. Alot.
Family can't always handle stress in the same way
Some people can't handle stress well at all
Sometimes, those people that you least expect to be able to lift you up.... are the very ones that will be there to do it.
An 8 hour drive on the way TO the hospital is about twice as long as the 8 hour drive home
My bed really IS the best bed in the world!
Prayers can make miracles happen

I'm not sure I'm ready for any more lessons anytime soon.

I also learned that my friends are wonderful. Thank you to all of you for all the thoughts and prayers!

Guest Designer for Coordinates Collections

2007-09-01T10:54:00.001-07:00

I'm super excited to be the Guest Designer for Coordinates Collections! I had a blast working with the Goodbye Summer kit. Jamie is a super site owner and puts together some great kits.

Read my bio HERE

Here are my layouts using the Sept Kit:

The hatch game....

2007-08-31T15:11:00.001-07:00

Get your own egg here!

I am sure you are wondering what will come from this egg! ME TOO!!!

It is something I found on Sarah's blog (a STAR Student over at The School of Scrap.com )

I had to add one here JUST to see what happens, so be prewarned that I have no idea what will hatch!

Sneak Peeks!!! shhhh!

2007-08-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

I am so thrilled to be the Guest Designer for Coordinates Collections and can't show you the full layouts I did with the kit until September, but here are a couple Sneak Peeks!

Check the full layouts out on Sept 1st at:

http://www.coordinatescollections.com/

I have a new View

2007-08-17T15:15:00.000-07:00

I found this on another blog today, and it hit home because of my day today. I won't share my day, but will share this in hopes it touches someone the way it touched me.

I have a new view in life today. I will enjoy it... fully.

Commencement Speech

made by Pulitzer Prize winning author Anna Quindlen

at Villanova University

I'm a novelist.

My work is human nature.

Real life is all I know.

Don't ever confuse the two, your life and your work.

You will walk out of here this afternoon with only one thing that no one else has.

There will be hundreds of people out there with your same degree; there will be thousands of people doing what you want to do for a living.

But you will be the only person alive who has sole custody of your life.
Your particular life.

Your entire life.

Not just your life at a desk, or your life on a bus, or in a car, or at the computer.

Not just the life of your mind, but the life of your heart. Not just your bank account but your soul.

People don't talk about the soul very much anymore.

It's so much easier to write a resume than to craft a spirit.

But a resume is a cold comfort on a winter night, or when you're sad, or broke, or lonely, or when you've gotten back the test results and they're not so good.

Here is my resume: I am a good mother to three children.

I have tried never to let my profession stand in the way of being a good parent. I no longer consider myself the center of the universe.

I show up. I listen. I try to laugh. I am a good friend to my husband. I have tried to make marriage vows mean what they say.
I am a good friend to my friends, and they to me.

Without them, there would be nothing to say to you today, because I would be a cardboard cutout.

But I call them on the phone, and I meet them for lunch. I would be rotten, or at best mediocre at my job, if those other things were not true. You cannot be really first rate at your work if your work is all you are.

So here's what I wanted to tell you today:

Get a life. A real life, not a manic pursuit of the next promotion, the bigger paycheck, the larger house.

Do you think you'd care so very much about those things if you blew an aneurysm one afternoon, or found a lump in your breast?

Get a life in which you notice the smell of salt water pushing itself on a breeze over Seaside Heights, a life in which you stop and watch how a red tailed hawk circles over the water or the way a baby scowls with concentration when she tries to pick up a Cheerio with her thumb and first finger.

Get a life in which you are not alone.

Find people you love, and who love you. And remember that love is not leisure, it is work. Pick up the phone. Send an e-mail. Write a letter.

Get a life in which you are generous. And realize that life is the best thing ever, and that you have no business taking it for granted.

Care so deeply about its goodness that you want to spread it around.

Take money you would have spent on beers and give it to charity. Work in a soup kitchen. Be a big brother or sister.

All of you want to do well.

But if you do not do good too, then doing well will never be enough.

It is so easy to waste our lives, our days, our hours, our minutes. It is so easy to take for granted the color of our kids' eyes, the way the melody in a symphony rises and falls and disappears and rises again.

It is so easy to exist instead of to live. I learned to live many years ago. I learned to love the journey, not the destination. I learned that it is not a dress rehearsal, and that today is the only guarantee you get.

I learned to look at all the good in the world and try to give some of it back because I believed in it, completely and utterly. And I tried to do that, in part, by telling others what I had learned.

By telling them this:

Consider the lilies of the field.

Look at the fuzz on a babys ear.

Read in the backyard with the sun on your face.

Learn to be happy. And think of life as a terminal illness, because if you do, you will live it with joy and passion as it ought to be lived.

No man ever said on his deathbed I wish I had spent more time at the office.

I found one of my best teachers on the boardwalk at Coney Island maybe 15 years ago.

It was December, and I was doing a story about how the homeless survive in the winter months.

He and I sat on the edge of the wooden supports, dangling our feet over the side, and he told me about his schedule; panhandling the boulevard when the summer crowds were gone, sleeping in a church when the temperature went below freezing, hiding from the police amidst the Tilt a Whirl and the Cyclone and some of the other seasonal rides.

But he told me that most of the time he stayed on the boardwalk, facing the water, just the way we were sitting now even when it got cold and he had to wear his newspapers after he read them.

And I asked him why.

Why didn't he go to one of the shelters?

Why didn't he check himself into the hospital for detox?

And he just stared out at the ocean and said, "Look at the view, young lady. Look at the view."

And every day, in some little way, I try to do what he said.
I try to look at the view.

And that's the last thing I have to tell you today, words of wisdom from a man with not a dime in his pocket, no place to go, nowhere to be.
Look at the view. You'll never be disappointed.

-- Anna Quindlen

Nikki tagged me...

2007-08-13T06:52:00.001-07:00

Ok, back to work today and time to play blog catch up. I will post more on the Adventures of Mountain Living later on, but I want to get the TAG post up before I forget.

Then I have to go back to Linda's because she tagged me just before vacation and I haven't forgotten her.

So, Nikki from http://nikkicleary.blogspot.com/ tagged me to give 7 Random Facts about myself and then tag 7 others.

1) I am a big insomniac and will stay awake all night catching up on shows that I've recorded. Such as last night.
2) My brother Tim's nickname for me when I was little was "Stink" because Mom made him change my diapers. {served him right!}
3) I juggle really really well!
4) I dislike listening to music, it just drives me batty.
5) I will only listen to talk radio or morning shows that make me giggle.
6) I have to multitask all the time or I go bonkers... so I love to listen to a Book On Tape (actually on my iPod) while scrapping.
7) I love washing clothes and laundry, just HATE putting it away!

wow, that was harder than I thought it would be!

Ok, so now I'll tag:
Jolynn, Michelle, Laura, Lori, Maryjane, Kerri and Marci

link back here girls so I can come read your facts! Tag, you are IT!

Can-can Girls!

2007-08-09T15:57:00.000-07:00

Ghost Town

2007-08-09T15:33:00.000-07:00

Jacob LOVED the gunfights and playing gunfights with all the 'owtlawz'.

View from the Mile High Mtn!

A few layouts...

2007-08-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

The sun hasn't peeked from behind the rain clouds here for awhile so I had been stacking up the layouts waiting for a bright day to snap some photos of them for the gallery. I gave up and went ahead and got some shots inside.

This is a fun layout that I did using Karen Foster Designs "Father" line. I saw a darling layout in a magazine that cut blocks of paper and had to try this. Journaling reads: Your love for Jacob shines in all that you do!

I really love this one! This is with Jake and Uncle Terry.. aka Bubba Terry. Pattern Paper is Basic Grey, ribbon is from Tie One On Ribbon club, little frame near the bottom is a frame stamp from BAM POP and I used watercolor pencils to add color.

Why ask Why? - Jake has hit that "Why" stage BIG time and asks it all the time!!!!! I drew doodles and added the colorful buttons. Jumbo rick rack and Magic Mesh. Ribbon from Tie One On Ribbon club.

I did some hand stitching on this one. My first attempt! The doodle at the bottom is hand stitched.

Afternoon Storms and Rainbows

2007-07-28T07:53:00.000-07:00

It was over a week ago that our house was struck by Lightening! It blew out almost everything possible in the front of the house. It didn't do any structural damage, but cost us a pretty penny in replacement of our electronics.

This strike could have burned the house to the ground.

This strike could have hit one of us that happened to be outside.

This strike could have caused so much more damage.

This strike could have changed all our lives forever in that one moment it touched our home.

It didn't. We are all safe.

And, this Rainbow was outside.

Take a moment to give Thanks for all the blessings in your life.

Find your Rainbow.

info on Open Call at The School of Scrap

2007-07-18T12:06:00.000-07:00

I wanted to remind you ALL of the open call to be published in our Class Notes e-zine here at The School of Scrap.

I encourage ALL members to submit your best work for possible publication.
Here is your chance to be published!

Details: The School of Scrap Ezine Call

When Saturday, July 21, 2007

Note Join us as we get ready to publish the 2nd edition of our new ezine, Class Notes.
We are looking for submitions to The School of Scrap “Class Notes” Ezine for our August/September edition.

Deadline: When Saturday, July 21, 2007

We are accepting the following layouts/ altered items/ cards/unique projects:
*Generic Call - show us your best projects
*Back To School ~ anything to do with Back To School
*Primary Colors
*Doodles Our Class Notes Featured Classes :
*Economics Class... show us your projects where you’ve used your Stash
*Marketing ~ Use an AD as your inspiration
*Shop ~ Use your Tools and tell us your tips/tricks.

Feel free to submit projects based on the Classroom projects set up by the Faculty of The School of Scrap, or your own projects. All will be considered!

*Please send your submissions to sos.paper@gmail.com by July 21st 2007.
*Please put which topic you are submitting for along with full product list. If you have any designer notes, please include those.
*We would like to see submissions from registered and active members of The School of Scrap, but all submissions will be considered.
Your images need to be under 200kb each and 150 dpi. Please do not send several topics in one e-mail. You can submit as many as you would like, just make sure they are all in seperate emails.
For more information, feel free to email lisa@theschoolofscrap.com

Sparkler Fun on the Fourth!

2007-07-09T18:38:00.000-07:00

I pushed the shutter speed super slow to capture some GREAT sparkler shots! Here is Chris showing his love......

2007-07-09T12:26:00.000-07:00

The Best Job -
Bazzill cardstock
Karen Foster Design "Mother" line
Flowers from stash
Jewel from stash
Fancy Pants ~ Bella Brush stamps
White Uniball Signo Pen for journaling

Some Day is Now...

Bazzill Cardstock
Karen Foster "Mother" line
Bella Stamps
Creative Imaginations scallop paper
Heidi Swapp letters

Rub on at top of strip is Karen Foster and is a bubble from my mom saying "Some Day You'll Thank Me"

This was something my mother has always said to me, and I do thank her now.

My mother means everything to me, and I wanted her to see that the Someday is Now.........

Love you Mom!!!!!

2007-07-02T14:36:00.000-07:00

Pirate Jacob and Pirate Jordan with Pirate Pistols in hand and ready to board the vessel!

Water Fights with other Pirates

I enjoyed looking at all the boats.

A few Design Team layouts

2007-07-02T11:47:00.000-07:00

Just a few of the Design Team layouts I posted at The School of Scrap using the Club Scrap kit for June.

Thanks for looking!

Time flies!

2007-06-27T08:01:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is Jake's 5th Birthday! He is so excited he just can't stand it anymore...

How could a day filled with excitment for HIM leave me looking back and being meloncholy..... go figure!

Now:

Then:

Jello.....

2007-06-21T19:36:00.000-07:00

I made the finals in a contest called "Showdown at the Playground" at:
Scrapbook Playground

The first challenge was to do a layout with green in it somewhere, one word title, 7 buttons and use a quote. I did this one of Jordan. I wanted it to be as 'artsy' as she is and reflect who she is as a teen.

Quote: Trying to raise a teenager is like trying to nail jello to a tree.

Public voting is how I advance to the next round, so run over and vote for me at
Scrapbook Playground. Thanks!

Our Summer Afternoons....

2007-06-14T14:35:00.000-07:00

As SOON as we walk through the door, Jake grabs his bathing suit and drags us to the pool!

He is so tall now that he stands up in the shallow end and can walk 1/2 down to the deep end before his head starts to go under! He has really grown tall!

Have a great summer everyone and enjoy your pool days!

Sneak Peek at Infusion by Basic Grey

2007-06-14T12:10:00.001-07:00

Photobucket Album

A glimpse of God Given talent here:

2007-06-13T12:29:00.001-07:00

Wow, just watch this and listen to this little Angel sing!

A sneeze

2007-06-07T07:46:00.000-07:00

Seriously........

I need to remember to ask a Dr WHY do you feel like you are going to throw up just before a sneeze?

NO, that is not exactly what I rushed here to blog about today. But, as I was waiting to sign in... it happened. I wonder about it everytime... also, if you open your eyes during the sneeze will they really pop out? LOL

EANIE-way...

I have made some goals....

I love reading blogs! I read blogs daily, but never seem to leave comments. My goal now is to comment when I read. So if you are reading.. comment and let me know.

So what is bothering me today? People with songs on their blogz.. the kind that automatically pop up and start playing without my prior knowledge nor consent. NOT because I don't like their music or their freedom to express it... but because I blog surf while at work and when I am trying to 'pretend' to be working and suddenly the latest Maroon 5 starts blasting.. that is hard to explain away as:

"Can you BELIEVE what the bank is putting on their websites nowadays????"

I need to get working on the Literature assignment at SoS, but can't find a book to use for it. I just had the most awesome of all ideas pop into my head about what and how to do it, I see BRIGHT BRIGHT BRIGHT colors.

500 Years of Women In Art

2007-06-06T08:49:00.001-07:00

This is just amazing how he transforms the paintings and the music is a perfect companion to this piece. Enjoy!

Jacob's 1st Guitar Lesson

2007-06-01T13:53:00.000-07:00

Time for Jake's first guitar lesson. He was trying to strike a chord to the Alphabet Song! LOL

May Club Scrap kit Layouts by the Faculty!

2007-05-29T12:43:00.001-07:00

Layouts with ScrapMode Sponsor Papers

2007-05-23T11:40:00.000-07:00

I have been a bad blogger! Tisk, tisk, tisk! I know, I know. I've been working so hard to get the School Store up and running and launching our monthly kits, that the blog has taken a backseat role.

So here are a few layouts I did this month for our wonderful sponsor ScrapMode

My Visual DNA..........

2007-05-16T12:09:00.000-07:00

Ok THIS was just FUN!!!!!

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

Scattegories... TAG you are IT now!

2007-05-09T07:20:00.000-07:00

I TAG all the School Of Scrap Girls to do this, then link your blog here in my comments.

SCATTEGORIES
The rules: Use the 1st letter of your name to answer each of the following...They MUST be real places, names, things...NOTHING made up!

Your Name: Lisa

Famous Singer: LaToya Jackson

4-letter word: L-O-V-E

Street: LaVista

Color: Lime

Gifts/Presents: Lacy undies

Vehicle: Lincoln

Things In Souvenir Shop: Lights

Boy Name: Lewis

Girl Name: Linda

Movie Title: Lucky Number Sleven

Drink: Loosey Goosey

Occupation: Linebacker in the NFL

Flower: Lily

Celebrity: Lindsey Lohan

Magazine: Love Letters

US City: Lewisville, KY

Pro Sports Team: Lions

Fruit: Lemon

Reason For Being Late For Work: Lovemaking

Something You Throw Away: Locks of hair cut off

Things You Shout: Love YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!

Cartoon Character: Lou Lou

2007-05-05T13:02:00.000-07:00

A wonderful Perk of living in Florida! A quick trip to the Beach to enjoy the Sunshine and Sand!

Club Scrap Slide Show of Faculty Designs using Club Scrap - March '07 Rhaposdy Kits - ENJOY

2007-04-27T10:43:00.001-07:00

TOOT TOOT

2007-04-12T14:44:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled to announce that another layout is being published. "Relax" is going to be featured in ScrapStreet next month!

It is so wonderful to have validation for your work, so I'm really excited about it!

Video of the Easter Bunny!

2007-04-09T09:53:00.000-07:00

Video of Easter Bunny Sightings around town !!!

Add to My Profile | More Videos

Page Maps by Becky Fleck

2007-04-09T09:22:00.000-07:00

I was THRILLED when Becky Fleck asked me to contribute to her April PageMaps site:

http://www.pagemaps.com

She sent the sketch she wanted me to use and I had a blast playing with it!

THANKS to Becky Fleck for all her work to provide inspirational pagemaps to us each month!

2007-04-08T07:28:00.000-07:00

Basket filled for Jake! Tons of candy, eggs filled with Money and Candy, a Glider, fun Military target ball gun, Bubbles, Chalks, Jumbo Markers, Monster House movie that he has really been wanting, but the most important to him.... Chocolate Eggs!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jordan's basket was also filled with tons of goodies for her. An ITunes card so she can buy music for her IPod, a new handbag, a dinosaur, chalks so she can play with Jake outside, Eggs filled with money and candy, and a Glider for her too! Most important to her.... Chocolate Eggs!!!!!

YUUUMMMM, Chocolate!

And..... if you've ever wondered what happens to a teenager that was out late the night before at the movies with friends and she has pulled all the goodies out of her basket and we leave the room for just a moment.... we come back to find this!

2007-04-08T07:17:00.000-07:00

OPEN This Please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Open this one too!

2007-04-08T07:12:00.000-07:00

Even the Eggs dress up like the Easter Bunny today!!!

Jake has a conversation with the Easter Bunny about "See You Next Year Easter Bunny!!!! Bye Bye for now! See you SOON....."

THRILLED to open the Egg and find MONEY from the BUNNY!!!!!! He carried that around yelling "Money Mommy! LOOOOOOK... Daddy LOOK. SSSSSIIIIISSSSYYYY LOOK. I gots MONEY!!!!!!!!!!"

A quick pose with the Basket!

Layout's by Lisa...

2007-04-02T07:43:00.001-07:00

Published in the Club Scrap - Scrap Rap

2007-04-02T06:35:00.000-07:00

I was thrilled to find out that Club Scrap wanted to publish my layout "Blessings" in their March Scrap Rap.

They also added it to their website gallery, along with my "Best Buds". It is so exciting to see my layouts in print and featured in the company Gallery.

Hanging out with Emily Falconbridge

2007-04-01T18:52:00.000-07:00

I had the priviledge of getting to hang out and take a class from the great Emily Falconbridge at my FAV LSS, Ruban Rouge!

(for those that don't know about Ruban Rouge it is the BEST LSS around)

We did a 12 month album and painted all the pages. Emily taught us her techniques for painting and turned us loose with paint and brushes. It was fun, and the best part was getting to hang out with my scrap-pal Gina! She is so super talented and I just love her to death. We were too busy painting to get to chat it up like we usually do, so we'll have to make another get together to catch up. LOL

I painted my pages and have them in the album and will make it a 2008 Year in Review album or perhaps do a 2007 Year in Review for the end of this year. Not sure, just know that it is cool and it was great getting to meet Emily. She is really a fun lady, and as Gina says... her style is very organic. Love that Freestyle!

Little Bit More.....

2007-03-29T09:50:00.000-07:00

So, I seem to have a total obsession with the new Target commercial because of the song that is played.

It is the type song that no MATTER what I'm doing, I will stop and snap and get 'jazzy' for a moment while singing along.

http://www.last.fm/music/Jamie+Lidell/_/A+Little+Bit+More

Basic Grey TOOT

2007-03-28T10:26:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to report that Basic Grey has accepted my layout, { i adore you } for their Gallery!

To see my Spot on the Basic Grey Gallery, click HERE

Thank you Basic Grey for a great opportunity!

What is Buggin me?

2007-03-22T21:06:00.000-07:00

What is Buggin me?

This dang bronchitis is what is bugging me. After 10 days of needing an Excel spreadsheet to keep track of the medications, I have it even worse now. I feel like I've been hit by a train!

Did anyone get the number of the truck that hit me?

I went to the Dr today and got another Pharmacy To Go list. I should ask the Pharmacy if they offer Frequent Shopper Cards.

I usually push through all illness, as Mamma always said, "I ain't got time for the pain." I guess this pain is making me MAKE time for it.

I felt so bad today I just wanted my MOMMY. Ever feel that way? You just want to be covered up, petted and pampered.

I came home from the Dr and my lil mommy was waiting to take care of me. Jordan made me soup, got me my blankie and put me to the sofa for sleep. She kept the house dark and quiet and was right there for me if I needed anything.

I think I must have done something right afterall for her to be so sweet when I needed it the most.

Now, I'm off to bed again.

The TEEN Look

2007-03-05T14:53:00.000-08:00

I think they teach this class in High School, how to look at your Mom really mean! She passed!

Check out my Slide Show!

2007-03-05T12:07:00.001-08:00

My Celebrity Look-alikes

2007-03-02T08:05:00.001-08:00

My cool celebrity look-alike collage from MyHeritage.com. Get one for yourself.

Arts and Crafts time...

2007-02-28T17:27:00.000-08:00

So, we are trying to get better about cutting with scissors and using Mom's gluesticks. We told him "2 Minutes to Arts and Crafts Time"

J: "O'tay Mommy"

..... 2 minutes pass ....

me: "Ok, kiddo... Arts and Crafts time!"
j: "hold on.. 1 mo're minute"

I hear CRASH, BOOM, BAM, PLOP coming from his room and find him fighting with robots! He looked 100% BOY then looked up at me and said "NO Arts and Crafts Mommy... I fighting 'de BAD GUYZ"

What is a mom to do? LOL

Hot for Teacher!

2007-02-26T17:26:00.000-08:00

It is so cute watching him have such a crush on his teacher!

Sunshine Skyway Bridge / Tampa Bay, Florida

2007-02-26T17:11:00.000-08:00

While other states are having snowstorms, we get skies like these. I took these while driving across the Skyway Bridge when Chris and I were doing the Tampa Bay Scrapbook Treasure Hunt.

Is it FALL again?

2007-02-26T16:30:00.000-08:00

You would think that it is FALL again with all the leaves that are falling around here! The lanai screen was covered with them and the gutters were full to capacity! One of Jordan's favorite chores is helping Chris clear them off. She think it is cool getting on the roof... probably so she can look around the neighborhood to see what all the boys are doing..

My heart Belongs to This Guy....

2007-02-26T11:55:00.000-08:00

It is the little things that he does that makes me appreciate him and love him more and more each day.

He took Jake to the store for new shoes on Sunday. He tried 3 pair until the perfect ones were found, then got them for him. He then picked up some stuff from the store and even took Jake for an Ice Cream Sundae for being a good boy.

I think I fell in love with him all over again for that.

Whoda Thunk it?

2007-02-22T12:36:00.000-08:00

Well, now... 'whodathunk it?'

I just took a personality test to find out that my Color Code is RED. Read below for the description and let me know if you think it 'fits' me... lol

To find out your Core Color Code.... go HERE
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Congratulations. You are RED.

REDS are motivated by POWER. They seek productivity and need to look good to others. Simply stated, REDS want their own way. They like to be in the driver's seat and willingly pay the price to be in a leadership role. REDS value whatever gets them ahead in life, whether it be in their careers, school endeavors, or personal life. What REDS value, they get done. They are often workaholics. They will, however, resist doing anything that doesn't interest them.

REDS like to be right. They value approval from others for their intelligence and practical approach to life, and want to be respected for it. REDS are confident, proactive, and visionary; but can also be arrogant, selfish, and insensitive. When others interact with you, as a RED you respond to them best if they are precise, factual, direct, AND show no fear!

Cyber Croppin at the ScrapGarden.net

2007-02-16T18:43:00.000-08:00

I'm doing a little Cyber cropping over at ScrapGarden.net and having fun already. I'm plotting my plan of attack for the Tampa Bay Treasure Hunt and painting, scrapping and giggling with Chris tonight.

Come and join the fun at Scrapgarden!

My Brain is Purple!

2007-02-16T10:06:00.001-08:00

Your Brain is Purple

Of all the brain types, yours is the most idealistic.
You tend to think wild, amazing thoughts. Your dreams and fantasies are intense.
Your thoughts are creative, inventive, and without boundaries.

You tend to spend a lot of time thinking of fictional people and places - or a very different life for yourself.

What Color Is Your Brain?

Goodnight Moon......

2007-02-08T19:55:00.000-08:00

I'm sure you see
this and think,
how precious he is
sleeping like this...

It is my first thought.

Then I see he has
the remote control
and remember
he is
SUCH A
M-A-N.

He has to be in control of the remote at all times! He owns the TV and the
remote and nobody should even THINK of walking in front of the TV while he
is watching them.

It is times such as these that I remember, I am raising a Man and not JUST a child.

Sweet Dreams lil Man of Mine!

When they found my Scrapbook Receipts!

2007-02-08T17:04:00.000-08:00

It finally happened.

I tried
to hide them.

I thought I'd burned them
all.

But....

I must have
missed one!

THEY found it and
said :
"We need to talk."

Ohhhh NOOO!

Every Puppy Needs a Boy!

2007-02-05T10:59:00.000-08:00

Jake loves playing Football with Dash, throwing his football for Dash to run and fetch it. So, today we got him a squeeky football on a rope and they tug and pull and played all night with their... I mean, Dash's new toy!

Check out my Slide Show!

2007-02-03T06:47:00.001-08:00

Layouts Worth 1,000 Words.....

2007-01-30T08:50:00.000-08:00

Whenever I look through my Scrapbooks, there are a couple that just make my heart smile when I see them. These are a few of my most recent layouts that are making me smile.

I love this pic of us! Journaling: Moments like these make Life RICH!

love ya Chris!

I adore this girl of mine! She is so funny and I enjoy hanging out with her, so this layout really makes me smile.
Title: Cherish US

This is one of my favorite pics of Jordie, she looks so pretty with her new haircut! Title: Picture Perfect

t

Every Puppy Needs a Boy....

Can one EVAH have too many Prima Flowers???? I ask you!

2007-01-28T12:54:00.000-08:00

Color me a happy scrapper!

Chris got the Pottery Barn shelf up for me and I gathered the many Prima bottles from all around the scraproom to put in one place.

The problem? When a 'collection' is all together, it start to really show your TRUE level of obsession.

When there are a couple bottles here and there, then it doesn't look nearly like sooo many.

I'm not EVEN gonna show the shelf with the BIG flowers... LOL

So, lesson learned.... don't arrange my scrap 'collections' with Chris in the room because he feeds off MY level of shock.

But.... isn't it a good thing that I got these at such a deal? They were buy 1 bottle and get 10 free! That is my story and I'm sticking to it! sssshhhhhhh...........

Great Article on KEEN Sharpening Photos

2007-01-25T12:22:00.001-08:00

You will want to check out this article!

http://www.sxc.hu/blog/post/411

3 Peas in a Pod

2007-01-22T17:14:00.000-08:00

Aren't these the happiest looking scrappers in the world. Love these girls!
Cari, Cami and Rebecca from The Scrap Yard.

Gotta love a Lucky WINNER....

2007-01-22T17:12:00.000-08:00

At the Kimberly Home crop, Tracy won the MACK DADDY
organization system.

If you had seen my favorite chick here running and leaping over
Scrapbook Totes and scrap stuff to get up to claim this prize, you
would have been laughing as hard as I was!

I stood in the back clapping for her as if she'd just won the Grammy!

A THRILLED WINNER......

2007-01-22T17:10:00.000-08:00

Tracy couldn't stop hugging her PRIZE!