the road less traveled

Change of blog address - AGAIN

2008-02-12T18:58:00.000-05:00

I got rid of the welcome page and the about me page - so the link below won't work anymore. Please update your links for the blog page only: http://web.mac.com/camibhere/beautiful_world/Blog/Blog.html

or click here: Beautiful World

So sorry for the change again - but this will make it better to only have the one page instead of 3.

Thanks!!

Cami

My blog is moving!

2008-01-20T10:08:00.000-05:00

My blog is moving to the following address: http://web.mac.com/camibhere/beautiful_world/Welcome.html

I would like to say thank you to my readers. Nearly 11,800 views from all over the world (see the map at the very bottom of this page)...thanks for subscribing - thanks for sharing in my scrapbooking fun, the many, many photos of my kiddos....my passions, my life. I love sharing with you and I hope you'll follow me on over to the new blog. It is still in the works, but please let me know if you stop by to check it out by leaving me a comment. At the beginning of February I will be giving away some Rusty Pickle loot so make sure you change your bookmarks or subscribe to my new blog.

I am doing some brainstorming about some podcasts, but I must get all my ducks in a row before I dive head first into that.

Nikon School

2008-01-19T19:50:00.002-05:00

What a day. I went to bed last night....no...this morning, at 1:30 AM and had to get up at 6:30 AM to get ready for school. For the last 2 years (since I got my Nikon D50), I've been trying to enroll in Nikon School but they're always sold out when they come to Orlando. I finally got in this year. I was really debating with myself whether I should go or not since I'm not really that new with a DSLR anymore. There are tons of online tutorials etc. that I could've done instead, but I left there feeling glad I went. I don't do well with just reading how to do something - so even though this is a seminar style class, it was better than just trying to read the manual or something. I think one of the best things I learned was how to read a histogram. I never really understood those things and now I feel so smart! lol. My only complaints would be those of the staff at Sea World and the Meeting Planners that did the setup. We were CRAMMED in there shoulder to shoulder like little sardines and by the end of the day, my shoulders were on fire! When I don't have any room to move and have to sit for 7 hours - that's just a recipe for throbbing joints and a migraine. Also, for lunch they literally had set the exact number of seats at the tables as there were attendees. Well, I went with a friend and we kinda wanted to sit together...but by the time we got through the buffet line, the only spots to sit were onsies. No two seats at a table. So we went to the corner and sat on the floor to eat. There were a couple other ladies that sat on the floor with us since they couldn't find seats either. To make matters worse - the staff ignored us instead of apologizing and offering to bring us silverware and a drink. The kicker is that there was room in the banquet hall for at least 4 more rounds of 10. I guess the fact that I have meeting planning experience magnifies these kinds of mistakes.

Then after Lindsey and I get back to her house, I get in my car and about half way home I was greeted with a torrential downpour. Between barely being able to see the hood of my car, with tree branches flying across the 2 lane and quite narrow road (and quite unfamiliar to me I might add) - plus it was dark out....all those things combined made the drive home a little tense for me. I hate driving in the rain to begin with - but when I'm on an unfamiliar road it just makes it like 10 times worse.

Ok - so I still have a headache and my shoulders, back and legs are still on fire from sitting for a long period of time in a very confined manner. Time for me to get comfy on the couch and watch a movie. :) Have a wonderful weekend!

Love,

Cami

hello!

2008-01-17T18:16:00.000-05:00

Wowzers, it has almost been a MONTH since I've blogged. I hope all of you have had wonderful holidays and have recovered from them better than I have. lol I love the holidays but they just wear me out. I am slowly (VERY slowly) getting things back to normal. hooray!

Before I move on to my big news...here is a little project I did at the iScrap cybercrop last weekend. I made it with the new Lucky line from Rusty Pickle...isn't it scrumptious paper? Unfortunately I wasn't able to be online as much as I wanted - so I'm afraid I don't have a lot to show for myself. This make and take was posted by Nancy and she had a way cute sample too!

So I guess the biggest news from Christmas is my new toy... a MacBook Pro. Tom completely surprised me - I know I have mentioned before how much I wanted a Mac for my next computer - but I didn't expect it for Christmas at ALL. And I will go ahead and say it now.... I LOVE MY MAC!!!!! There has been a slight learning curve and getting familiar with different ways of doing things, but I can tell you that this thing is amazing. I see the iPhone on TV and am amazed at how utterly cool that thing is. I don't need one - but that doesn't change the fact that it is just plain cool! Well, imagine all those nifty ways of doing things on a computer. This baby ROCKS. There are a few things that I have yet to figure out - and actually, a few that I've been told I won't be able to do. I print all my photos here at home and I like to get the most out of my photo paper so I am used to printing something then putting the paper back in to print another possibly odd sized photo on the same sheet. I am used to dragging the photo wherever I want on the paper and being able to print it. Well, I can't do that on the mac - at least not with the programs I have or am trying out (Aperture). I'm wondering if that is possible in Light Room or something. I need to do some investigating.

The girls are back in school and doing some fun projects. Jessica made butter at her pre-K yesterday. I couldn't believe it. Too funny. Sadly though, we were meeting a friend for lunch after I picked her up so her personal little baby food jar full of butter didn't get refrigerated right away. Lindsay got her report card today and slipped from Excellent to Satisfactory in Math - but hello....I can't even believe the kinds of things they expect 6-7 year olds to learn in math these days. I personally think she is doing great and she keeps saying that she loves math - and that's what I love to hear (because truthfully - I stink at it!). I bought her a couple 'chapter books' at the store the other day. These are her first and she's loving them. I'm so proud of her.

It is getting late and if don't go get dinner for the girls they are apparently going to shrivel up and waste away. You know - since I never feed them or anything. Of course I am totally kidding - don't call the authorities on me. The girls eat non-stop it seems, but when I don't jump up and make them dinner right away they put on their drama queen crowns and start workin' me. lol Ok - I PROMISE that I'll be getting back to normal here and back to blogging. I kind of needed a break from the computer for a bit. I've missed it terribly - but I have truly enjoyed the time I've had with my family.

Love,
Cami

almost time for winter break!... and new music

2007-12-18T00:24:00.000-05:00

Gotta say, I am really looking forward to winter break. No more getting up earlier that my body wants to (ok, that might still happen when the girls come in to wake me up for breakfast!), no more packing lunches, drop-offs, pick-ups, waiting by the front window for the bus, working on homework (and having to hear the whining that goes along with that)....aaaahhhh, I close my eyes and can picture a couple weeks without all that. Can't wait! ...and in a few weeks I'll be saying, isn't it time for you girls to go back to school yet? lol. I love having them home, don't get me wrong, but they are at the age where they are loud and rowdy. I'll be looking for that 3 hours of quiet time each morning.

I am - I think - ready for Christmas. However, our tree has decided not to work. We have one of those trees that is pre-lit with like 800 lights and it turns slowly which makes the lights twinkle. We've had it for a few years - and this year, it lasted for 2 weeks after turkey day and poof. Now it won't work. This after we spent several hours and several trips to the store to buy different replacement bulbs - replacing about 40 bulbs and testing over 100. bummer. Guess I'll be at the stores early on the 26th to get in on the Christmas tree sales. Tom and I are planning to take the girls to see Santa tomorrow. I don't have any Christmas dresses for them so we may have to make do with what's hanging in the closet. Last year I did a big photo shoot in their pretty dresses and I still love those pictures. Some of my faves, for sure. We'll see, maybe I'll snap a few before we leave the house.

Oh - one more thing. My neice has turned me on to a new band. They are called Roe. Sample their music at iTunes. They probably don't want to be compared to other bands - but I'm gonna do it anyway, simply because without it, if you haven't heard them yet, what makes you want to take a listen? That's how I am anyway. I come across a ton on new stuff on iTunes but because of the sheer volume of available music on there, a lot of the new music gets skipped over. Sad but true. Anyhoo - they have a similar sound to The Fray. I happen to enjoy The Fray's music, so I was instantly intrigued. I bought the album Frame by Frame (just released Nov. 3rd) at iTunes and was not disappointed. Check them out...

Thanks to those that have left posts and emailed me about our health. :) you guys are so sweet. Lindsay is better, but Jess is still coughing a little at night. I'm better except for an annoying feeling of something stuck in my throat. I bought some Mucinex (regardless of what the dr. said) to see if that will get rid of it. It does go away at times, but it's always worse in the evening. I don't have a cough or anything so I'm not real sure what's going on, but I tell you - it is most definitely annoying!!!

alrighty - it's time for me to get some sleep.

Little golfers, weekend mania, and scrap stuff

2007-12-04T00:20:00.000-05:00

This is a long post...you ready?

A week ago, we went to Play It Again Sports and bought the girls some golf clubs. Tom has been taking them across the street to let them swing the clubs and learn how to hold the clubs etc. So I thought I'd share a couple photos...I admit I am a bit partial, but I just think they are so cute!

Since we're talking sports here I wanted to post some more pics of Lindsay from her tennis lessons.

We had a really full weekend this past weekend. Friday night Tom and I got the VERY RARE opportunity to go out on a date. We went to Bonefish Grill and had the most delicious meal. Of course there was a 50 minute wait, but it was well worth it. The weather was beautiful and we were able to score a seat outside while we were waiting. I ordered a glass of wine and we sat and had a wonderful conversation for the duration of our wait. After we were seated, we ordered some bacon wrapped scallops topped with a mango salsa chutney- and I'm telling you...they were the best scallops I have EVER had. There are only 4 in an appetizer so I was teased with only 2 of them. But then the meal. WOW. Chilean Sea Bass topped off Oscar style. oh me oh my...to die for I tell you. We splurged on a bottle of Reserve Cabernet - don't even remember which vineyard it was but we don't typically spend that much on a bottle of wine. Again, well worth it. All in all - an amazing dinner with my wonderful hubby. :) And if we can keep the kids well (Lindsay started throwing up again this morning...7 times in about an hour) then we're going on another date this Friday. woohoo! 2 times in 8 days? What's up with that? Whatever it is, I'm loving it!

Then on Saturday we decided to go to Carmax and start looking around - since our lease is up in a week or so. I had done my homework and knew all about the cars I was interested in. It only took about 30-40 minutes to pick the vehicle I wanted and only another hour or so after that to finalize the deal. Love Carmax for that. No haggling. To top it off, the vehicle I wanted (a Ford Explorer) was basically brand new. It is a 2006, but only had 6,400 miles on it. Sweet! I'm all for letting someone else take the hit on the depreciation by taking it off the lot the first time. It's a 4x4 - which wasn't on my list, but Tom still talks of having a boat and this vehicle is equipped to handle a boat. Personally, I think boats are just big money pits - but it is something that Tom dreams of having, and who am I to keep him from his dream. He works very hard and definitely deserves it. Anyhoo - so today we had the inspection on my leased vehicle, and the guy tells me that it passed with no problems aside from normal wear and tear on the tires and a little scuff somewhere. He mentions that the headsets and remote for the DVD are missing. I'm like...WHAT? It is supposed to come with the headsets and remote? How come I never knew that? I kindly told him that the dealer never gave them to us - and how I wish I'd had them so I didn't send my back into spasms every time I tried to bend backwards to operate the thing at red lights.

On to a few scrap related items:

I wanted to congratulate the new Creative Team members at Heart In Hand Scraps.
* Raechelle Bellus

* Heather Mellstrom

* Christi Snow

* Lynda Lindley

Congrats ladies!!! Your work is amazing and inspiring!

Totally looking forward to seeing what they do with the classes! Stop by if you get the chance and check out the forums. It is an amazing place full of good people

There is a new blog challenge on the Rusty Pickle Blog. Check it out and maybe win yourself some Rusty Pickle loot!

Come check out iScrap.net If you already have a NSA membership - just use that to log in. I will be hosting a Rusty Pickle challenge there this month, and then at the beginning of the year we will be having an online crop. I would LOVE to see you there. Oh, by the way, there are current contests posted there. Wanna win PSE 5.0? or how about a digital camera? Come by and check it out.

TGIF!

2007-11-30T09:12:00.000-05:00

I am SO glad it's Friday! For one, the dance studio that Jess goes to is hosting a movie night so I paid for both Lindsay and Jess to go, which means that Tom and I get to have a date night! I hardly even remember what that is. It is extremely rare that we go out without the kids - so I am really looking forward to that tonight. I may have to take a nap today just so, in all the peace and quiet, I don't fall asleep! That sounds awful, but I've been up all hours of the night lately with Lindsay. She hasn't had a fever, but for 2 days she went through rounds of vomiting like 7 or 8 times in an hour. Poor thing couldn't even keep down a teaspoon of water. I was really afraid she was getting too dehydrated - so I took her to the dr. and paid for a prescription and of course - after I shell out the money - she seems to be better now. lol, that's just the way it goes in my world. :) But I'm just glad she's better. Doing laundry at 3 in the morning...well, I can think of better things to do. SLEEP!

So I had been working on a bunch of stuff to post on my blog - and as it turns out they've all been requested for publication, so now I'm back to square one. I had 4 cards, a little mitten place card, and I was finally going to post my chipboard basket. I made two to submit to GiftMaker and this is the one they did not choose. But I submitted it somewhere else and they accepted it for publication. So, since those are all gone, I made 4 cards with matching envies last night for the Rusty Pickle Blog:

The layout posted at the top is a hybrid layout. It features the following supplies:
2peas Free Oct. kit - Tia Bennett, Hearts Alight
ACOT - Something Blue Sentence Strips
DCWV scallop stack (cardstock)
Ranger Adirondack paint dabber - Aqua
MAMBI Icons (rhinestone heart)
Deluxe Designs Plane Janes Decorative Chipboard accents
Misc. trim
Prima Got Flowers (neutural)
Rusty Pickle buttons
Zig black pen
I did the journaling on the scalloped oval (Something Blue Sentence Strips) in PSE 5.0

What?!

2007-11-20T21:16:00.000-05:00

We had our hvac unit serviced the other day and was advised that the inside of the unit is covered in black mold. The guy asked if we are having any health problems - and I said in a questioning way..'yeeees' and then he proceeds to show me before he put the panel back on. He said that the mold is being blown into our house through the vents. Lovely. This explains why we are all still sick and can't seem to shake it. It's part of living in Florida unfortunately. But there are some types of mold that can be very dangerous - even deadly. Hopefully we can get this taken care of soon and we can start getting healthy again.

On another note, yesterday we had an emergency visit to the pediatric dentist. Jess had to have 2 root canals and 2 crowns. Unbelievable! The dentist agreed that part of her problems are hereditary (I grew up with the worst teeth EVER) but then she reminded me that I need to be flossing her teeth until she is able to write in cursive. I admit that I don't make it a habit to floss both of the girls teeth everyday and maybe that makes me a bad mom. But then she said that we should ONLY be drinking water. No diluted Crystal Light...no diluted Light Cran-Apple, no diluted Diet Ocean Spray. Water only. I proceeded to open my big mouth and express to her that I just really don't think that is realistic that a person only EVER have water for their whole life. Pu-leeze! I get so frustrated with statements like that. Healthy? Obviously! but totally unrealistic in my opinion.

And today, I woke up sick as a dog. I won't paint the not-so-pretty-picture for you...but the symptoms are much like food poisoning. I hope tomorrow will be a better day. I need to go grocery shopping for turkey day! I hope you all have a wonderful holiday with the people you love.

Cami

Do ya feel LUCKY? huh? Do ya?

2007-11-14T23:51:00.000-05:00

Lucky is the name of the new line by Rusty Pickle. It will be available at the beginning of December...and it ROCKS!

Scrappers Holiday Planner

2007-11-12T21:51:00.000-05:00

The unveiling of the Scrappers Holiday Planner (digi kit) peaked a lot of interest at Dragon Flaire Studios tonight - and at a price of $3.75, I would say that you can't go wrong. You can't buy a planner for that - plus, it's WAY more fun to make one! It's a gorgeous kit designed by Jenna Nelson. I was asked to create a hybrid planner using this kit and Jenna has my pics on her blog: little bird design digitals She also has links to the gallery where other designers posted their planners for the big kick off tonight. Claudine Hellmuth was there for a chat and as chat's usually go...the posts were flying faster than I could keep up with. lol

Hope you all have had a good start to the week!
Cami

a little teaser for you

2007-11-11T22:50:00.000-05:00

* Here is a little teaser for my class at Heart in Hand Scraps that was just added to the boutique Friday night. I LOVE the Pirate Princess line from Rusty Pickle, I LOVE chipboard, and I adore rhinestones, so I combined them into a home decor project for my class. Check it out! By the way, Heart in Hand Scraps is looking for a Creative Team unlike any other. You can check out the details here: CT Call

I did a hybrid holiday planner for Dragonflaire Studios as well - but they won't be posting it until tomorrow (Monday) night. Make sure you stop by to take a peek at the new release and what I've created with it.

Hybrid fun

2007-11-08T20:02:00.000-05:00

Here is one of my recent hybrid layouts. The owls, toadstool and "friends" plaque were printed off from my digital embellishment files. The green paper and scalloped notebook paper are digital papers as well. These elements can be found in the super fun kit "Hoot and Annie" at Scrap Girls ...fun, huh?

the saga continues...

2007-11-07T18:36:00.000-05:00

So Jess is responding to the 2nd round of medication now and feeling better. But when Lindsay got off the bus today she was in tears because of a headache. She came home, laid down on the couch and slept up until about 6pm. Yep, she has a low grade fever (just under 101) and it's looking like she may be home from school tomorrow. :(

On a happier note, I received my Scrapbook Dimensions Monthly Planner in the mail yesterday and so enjoyed flipping through the pages. Lots of great inspiration in there as well as challenges. I was a little anxious to flip through it and the clip binder popped open and I had pages fly. I suppose I should've been a bit gentler with it...oopsie! I got it all back together though.

And as I sit here listening to Katie Couric tonight - I hear there's another toy recall. One that affects my family again. Aqua Dots have been a big hit among younger kids and apparently, if swallowed, the dots can release a chemical that turns into the date rape drug and can cause seizures or induce a coma. Yikes! My Aqua Dots are going bye-bye.

I have 2 layouts done and just waiting to be scanned. Hope to have them posted on my blog by tomorrow afternoon! I've gotten too comfortable with my laptop here in the Family Room. So to scan them, that requires me to move myself back into my scraproom. This oversized chair is soooo much more comfy than my computer/desk chair. I think when we move next spring, I'm going to opt for a loveseat or oversized chair in my scraproom. :)

Tired

2007-11-05T12:07:00.000-05:00

I'm so tired of having a house full of sick kids! I just got back from the pediatrician. This time we were able to wait through the weekend and see our regular doctor this morning. But the bad news is that Jessica, aside from a fever that won't go away, has a sinus and ear infection combined with a very sore throat. Poor thing. But we just started antibiotics, so here's hoping she feels well by tomorrow morning. I hope so anyway. Having sick kids for the last month has completely thrown me off my schedule. I can't get to the store and definitely do not have any time in the scrap room unless they happen to get some sleep.

So besides all the projects that are due (like yesterday!) I also have to start looking into a new vehicle. Our lease is up in a few weeks and with Thanksgiving in there, I've got to start getting an idea what I'd like to get next. In my research - I was shocked to see the lousy fuel economy statistics on all these new cars - except for the Ford Hybrid. Come to find out the government has changed how the gas mileage is posted on the sticker on the window. They want the auto industry to give consumers a more realistic view of how many miles you get to the gallon. The Ford Escape Hybrid is being advertised as having 36 hyw/31 city and is being changed to 31/29. Still much better than the mini vans which range between 16-18mpg city. I never really considered a hybrid before, but in this day and age - nearly doubling your gas mileage will save a pretty penny over the course of the next few years of owning the vehicle. Reflecting current prices, I would spend $8,400 in gas over 5 years (and I'm a stay at home mom!). In 2001, that figure would've been $2,400 because I remember the gas station by my friends house was always around 99cents a gallon. Unreal, isn't it? So if I could get that down to $4,500 or even $5,000 that would be awesome. Plus, you know gas prices will go up astronomically in the next 5 years so the savings would be even greater. That is - if I'm comparing to a vehicle with a comparable purchase price. :) Anyway - I've totally gone off on a tangent. My apologies (that is - if you actually read all my ramblings).

Lots to do and a sick little one to go check on. I am working on my next class to be offered at Heart in Hand Scraps and hopefully I can get that in on time for the next newsletter. So unfortunately I don't have any projects I can post here - but I'll be posting a couple later this week. So come back and visit! :)

Cami

Our pumpkins (both the kiddos and the vegetables!)

2007-11-01T08:56:00.000-05:00

a day late...I know. But I didn't actually start carving my pumpkin (the cat) until last night around 5:30 or so. Tom did the skull and I think it turned out much better than my terrible photos (lol). The girls had a great time walking the neighborhood with daddy while I stayed home passing out candy. I was a little disappointed - we really didn't have that many kids this year and now I have a ton of candy laying around. I think one reason for the slow night last night was that there was a home invasion (at gun point) yesterday afternoon in our neighborhood. There was also something else going on at our Super Target because when I went to get Lindsay from school, they were right in the middle of a lockdown. When I asked them why there was a lockdown, I was told that there was an incident at Target. Instantly I'm thinking...child abduction. A parent's worst nightmare. So of course for the rest of the day I was extra cautious and protective, especially noticing all the helicopters circling the area, and the slew of police cars crawling around the area. But on my way home, I pass one of the many streets in our neighborhood to see some news crews parked in front of a house. I see on the news that there was a home invasion at gunpoint. They took a tv and some money I believe - and left. Not like we live in a bad part of town or anything - scary that this stuff happens all around us.

So anyway - there may have been some parents going to grocery stores instead for their lame halloween thing. I tell ya - I went to two different Publix stores yesterday because they had been advertising their Halloween thing for the kids. They had big banners hung on the wall outside the store advertising a big Halloween event from 4-7pm. Like my day wasn't busy enough already - I dressed the kids in their costumes and went to one Publix. There was a bowl at the front with a few candies in it, a pile of Publix crayon boxes and a stack of coloring pages. Then we walked the store and got, get this....a free cookie! Yeah! Someone needs to remind them that I can get that any ol' day - without a costume. Then the deli area gave them a little hand shaped baggie of popped popcorn. That was it! So we went to the other Publix because I had been there earlier and saw them blowing up tons of black and orange balloons. Come to find out - they were for a customer order. In fact - this Publix was even worse. They did the popcorn and cookies and that was it. I couldn't believe it. And to make matters worse, it takes about 15-20 minutes just to get out of the parking lot on any given day. This area is really busy and a total mess...but I did it for the kids. aaaaargh! I was so frustrated by the time I got home. But the girls enjoyed their evening of trick-or-treating and today I have another sick child on my hands. Jess has a fever. She's sick again for the 2nd time this month. We seem to just keep passing it around. Here are a few pics of the girls. Not the best photos - but I was in a hurry to snap a couple shots before they ran out the door. Lindsay was a cheerleader (from High School Musical) and Jess was a forest fairy. I had some fiber optic barrettes that I clipped in their hair - kinda cheesy, but they loved them and HAD to wear them out in the dark.

Sunday ramblings

2007-10-28T13:41:00.001-05:00

Before I forget and start rambling - I wanted to let you know my friend Nicole Wozniak has a digital freebie on her blog - check it out: http://lumpypagedesigns.blogspot.com/ I'm working on some hybrid projects right now and have been scouring the net for more goodies! If you know of some great digi kits or embellishments...be sure you let me know!

As I mentioned in my last post, Saturday was my oldest daughter's birthday. She turned 7 yesterday - and the poor thing ended up in the after hours pediatrician's office. They ran a strep culture and it was negative, thank goodness. The dr. said not to give her cough meds as they really don't do much anyway - and said to return the Mucinex if I hadn't opened it...then proceeded to tell me all sorts of stuff about the Australian team training in the pollution in Beijing for the Olympics (in Beijing next year), science, Washington and the BBC...???? Whatever. Really, just tell me what to do to get her better as she's missed 4 days of school already - and she's HERE...on her BIRTHDAY. After being there for an hour, his solution was to have her drink a LOT of water and remember to wash her hands. I'm paying for this? DUH! I was pretty sure that if a fever hung on for more than 5 days that a kid needs pediatric intervention...and the on call nurse was the one that told me to get in to see a dr. The guy was a little looney and kept going off on a tangent - then told me thank you for listening. weird. I do believe that the reason for the lack of medication is that they are concerned about these Super Bugs that are resistant to medicine. His point about the athletes was that they trained there and were coughing up chunks of dirty air - and the trainers solution was to make sure they drank tons of water and that would help flush out all the impurities they were inhaling. Not sure I got that recalled as eloquently as the dr. had stated it - but that was his point. That if Lindsay drank lots of water - she should be coughing and keeping all that stuff out of her lungs...no cough meds needed as he WANTS her to cough.

Alright - so today I NEED to get in the scraproom and create a bunch of stuff that is due - like tomorrow! So goodbye for now. Hope you're all having a great weekend!

~Cami

Book-o-ween!

2007-10-26T09:19:00.000-05:00

Children all over the country are participating in Book-o-ween today, except my dd Lindsay. Just when I think she's getting better - today she has a 102.2 temperature and her cough is getting worse. She was SO looking forward to participating in the school parade as Ariel (Little Mermaid) but I had to be the bad guy and tell her she had to stay in bed for the 4th day in a row. Her birthday is tomorrow and I really just want her to get better so she can enjoy her day. All she wants to do is have the family go to the aquarium and hang out there together. What a great kid.

So back on topic - for Book-o-ween, Jessica went as Strawberry Shortcake. She wanted to be a princess but I told her that chances are, every other little girl would be one of the Disney Princesses and why don't we find something different. So we went through her books and found 2 favorites...Angelina the Ballerina and Strawberry Shortcake. Strawberry Shortcake it is. Here are a couple pictures from our way out the door this morning. Lindsay has bed-head and again, not feeling well, but she really wanted to have a picture of her and Jess together.

Now for halloween, Lindsay has chosen the cheerleader costume from High School Musical and Jessica has selected a "forrest fairy" costume. Lindsay's costume is a little big for her, but at least she can put it in her dress-up box and get good use out of it for the next year. Can't wait to see all the halloween pics next week. I love seeing what all the other kids are dressed up as...I am always amazed at what some of the moms out there make. Sadly, I just rely on my checkbook. heehee.

Have a great weekend!

Cami

I said I would...

2007-10-17T19:12:00.000-05:00

Wow, I can't believe the Rusty Pickle retreat was over a month ago now. I said I would post some pics - so here ya go! First are the photos of the actual cabin. It was gorgeous! The front door was draped with a pine garland with a little faux nest in it. CUTE! I was so happy to see all the Aspen trees, they are so gorgeous. The view was really pretty up there. It reminded me of where I grew up. To be honest, I ended up a little homesick for Colorado. On the way home, I took some photos from the plane. These are some of my favorites. :)

Have a great day!

Cami

Cool schtuff...

2007-10-14T12:27:00.000-05:00

I'm back from CKU - and I had so much fun going just to hang out with Rusty Pickle's own Kristan Paolacci, her awesome mom (love her!) and I even ran into a bunch of my local friends there. I helped out in the RP classes as much as I could and met some amazing women. Kristan's TA's were so sweet and we all had a great time together. I heard that the Pirate Princess contest the night before went very well - I just wish I'd been there to see all the awesome creations. Sounded like everyone had a blast! There should be some photos of that uploaded to the Rusty Pickle blog this week.

Heart in Hand Scraps had a new set of classes added to their boutique...and I won't tell you who has a class in there. heehee (*whistling and looking around*). Additionally, Tammy Tutterow and Linda Albrecht have new classes as of Friday. They are awesome - and be sure to check out the other classes available in the boutique.

If you subscribe to the newsletter from Julie Ann Shahin's blog, Everyday Digital Scrapbooking, you'll see my recent interview about hybrid scrapbooking. If you don't get the newsletter, you can read the interview in the Scrapbook Dimensions Magazine forums . If you haven't tried hybrid scrapping - I'm telling you, it's worth a try. You will LOVE it! You don't have to give up your adhesive and trimmer. Print out a simple journaling card (as I mention in my interview as one of my favorite hybrid products) and give it a shot!

Last week I did my first garage sale. It was time to finally purge the garage of all the baby clothes, highchair, playpen, strollers, car seats. I can't begin to tell you how difficult that process was for me as I love children and would love to have one more. BUT, I've accepted the fact that that isn't going to happen. I only made about $100 or so - and honestly I don't think it was worth spending a week in the garage sorting stuff out, then sitting out in the sun for 7 hours. Oh well. Live and learn. But I have to say that most of the purchases were like 25-50 cents on the clothes, and I was selling big toys that still looked brand new for $1 or two. So I did get rid of quite a bit of stuff.

I have a busy week ahead. I have a LOT of creating I need to get done for assignments, and my parents are coming to town as well...which means more house cleaning. oh joy! I can't WAIT to see them though. I don't get to see my mom and dad as much as I'd like. Hopefully next time we can go out to Denver to see them. I miss seeing the rest of my family too!

CKU Orlando - and how I really feel about Chuck E Cheese

2007-10-08T12:12:00.000-05:00

I'm finally back online - it seems like forever (even though it's only been several days). We celebrated Jessica's 5th birthday yesterday with a trip to Chuck E Cheese (much to my dismay). I'm not a fan of the Cheese. Although now that the girls are a little older and don't freak out with all the kids running past them at speeds of light, I am able to give them 5 tokens at a time and let them go play. They run off and play but know they must come back to Mom's table for more tokens. But seriously, just sitting in that place makes me nervous. One of the last times we went, there was a little girl in front of Lindsay on the slide and apparently she REALLY had to go potty - and didn't make it. So she went as she went down the slide. Then Lindsay came down after her. Ewwww! It grosses me out just re-telling the story. It took them about 15-20 minutes to get an employee over there with a bottle of cleaner. Meanwhile, all these kids were going down the slide. I would've stood there to prevent anyone else from going down, but I was busy in the restroom cleaning up my own daughter. Yuck. Just disgusting. So this is why that place gives me the heebie-jeebies.

At any rate, we left with cotton candy, came home and had cake and ice cream - then opened presents. Lindsay was having a terrible bout of jealousy. Jess was being good and shared with Lindsay, but for some reason, it's never enough for that child. She was still pretty sullen. I had to remind her over and over that her birthday is in 3 weeks and that she would get her own presents. Still not good enough. Just a bad day for her.

I have not spent much time in my scrap room this past week (GASP!) and need to get back in here! I have creating to do! BTW, I will be at CKU Orlando this next Saturday. If you're going to be there - stop by Rusty Pickle and say hello!

Another blog of note...get in on the fun

2007-10-03T19:14:00.000-05:00

So with all the fun we've had on the Rusty Pickle Blog - all the fun comments and giveaways, Lance has decided to do some fun things on his new blog as well. Check it out for MORE giveaways!! If you can't tell by now, Rusty Pickle is extremely generous...why not join the party!

Where in the World is Lance?

I've also added a list of links to my blog called "All Things Rusty Pickle" so you can always click on the Where in the World is Lance link each day.

And the winner is....

2007-10-02T11:25:00.000-05:00

Thank you for all your comments yesterday. One of you (Christine W) caught the attention of all the Chefs with her comment on the final prize post on the Rusty Pickle blog. Congrats Christine!

So I printed and cut up all the comments and called my 4 year old into the spare bedroom. I threw all the papers in the air and after they all floated to the ground, I had Jess pick one. Her lucky little fingers selected.........
...

...

...

...

DAWN W!

Congrats Dawn! Please email me at camibhere@hotmail.com with your full name and address to receive your RAK. Thanks to everybody for your comments, that was fun. I've decided I will be doing a RAK each month - so please check back for more fun!

A RAK, Warehouse Sale, and new challenges

2007-10-01T09:30:00.001-05:00

Before you do anything else, make sure you stop by the Rusty Pickle blog (CLICK HERE for the specific post) to get in on the last giveaway - it is for a ton of BRAND NEW product!! There's also a giveaway for the 500th and 1,000th person that posts a comment. AND - I will personally RAK someone that posts a comment on the RP blog - then comes back here to let me know that you posted there. Just post a comment on my blog with the time your comment was posted on the blog...and of course your username here must match the username on the RP blog. I will announce the winner of the RAK (via random drawing) sometime tomorrow.

If that's not enough - then be sure to get in on the Rusty Pickle warehouse sale. Here are the details:

With October comes new fun on the RP blog. We will be posting challenges each month for you. The Chefs will be posting sample projects to give you some ideas. I hope to see you participating. Rusty Pickle is very generous and I would love to see some of my readers win some loot!

My baby is growing up...(*sniff)

2007-09-29T00:03:00.000-05:00

My youngest daughter, Jess, lost her first tooth today. She is only 4 (soon to be 5 though). She was so excited to discover a "wiggly tooth" a few days ago. Today she worked on it ALL DAY. She wouldn't leave it alone and was asking for apples and for me to keep wiggling it too to see how loose it was. So at dinner, she got it out. I'm really proud of her for being so brave. She didn't know what to expect but was so determined. Here (above) is a lunchtime shot of her looking in the mirror at her wiggly tooth - then below is an after shot of her at dinner.

I guess the days of taking those cute photos with perfectly straight teeth are over (boohooo!!!)

good news and bad news

2007-09-27T11:50:00.001-05:00

First - the bad news. I received an email from a friend of mine in PA letting me know that a friend of ours had died of melanoma cancer. She had just found out about a spot of melanoma on her toe while we were still living there 2 1/2 to 3 years ago. She passed away this weekend and I just feel so sad. Can you imagine the pain her husband must be going through - and her children...it brings me to tears just thinking of what they are going through. This tragedy has reminded me to love on my family and friends every chance I get. It has also made me think about my position on always being the one behind the camera. I am so self-conscious about how I look. I put on some pounds during both pregnancies and thanks to my non-functioning thyroid...I can't seem to take it off! I need to get over it. I need to remember that if something unfortunate were to happen to me - I want my girls to have lots of pictures of us having fun together. (sigh...) This is something that is so hard to think about - yet I can't stop thinking about it. KWIM?

Ok - so now for the good news. You still have time to get in on the Rusty Pickle giveaway! Go to the blog now: http://rustypickle.typepad.com/ and just leave a comment on today's post to be entered to win today's giveaway...NEW French Market papers AND an acrylic album! WOW! Go back tomorrow to see if you've won...and if you haven't, keep leaving comments! The last day of the giveaway will be soon - but it will be a big one I'm told. So don't miss out!

What else is new...
Tom and I are starting to talk about buying a house. When I start looking - I get so excited and seriously - I just LOVE looking at potential houses. We went to an absolutely BEAUTIFUL neighborhood last weekend. Many of the new homes were on a lake. Gorgeous houses. But I think the neighborhood is a little far north for us...well, for Tom. We have his commute to consider. So I'm looking on some builder websites and found another house that I fell in love with. And I'm telling you - this house was AWESOME. Again, on a lake, mature trees and landscaping, 2 story (there are way too many 1 story homes in FL) and the house itself looks like homes that are priced for twice as much in this area. Tom even admitted that he liked it. I had called the builder to see about getting a walk through, but 6 hours later when they called me back, I was told that the house sold that very same day. BOOOOOO!!! Even though we are not ready to buy right now, I was really - truly bummed. I know there's something else out there for us. But you know, when you get all excited about something, it's hard not to be bummed.

I am busy designing classes for Heart in Hand Scraps. It is a wonderful site that offers online classes. They have an ad in the latest Paper Crafts issue as a launch of sorts since the site was new and basically had members just from word of mouth up until now. Lots of great instructors there - check out the bios and join the forums. Things are going to start taking off there very soon! My first class will be available soon - possibly this Friday!. I've also been designing projects and writing supporting articles for another site that will be launching soon, designing some mini albums for a special project that I cannot share with you yet (there I go again!) and gearing up to play with more hybrid scrapbooking. Glitz sent the DT their CD's and it all looks so awesome. Those will be so fun to work with! And of course I'm busy doing projects for Rusty Pickle. Man oh man am I loving all the new stuff! The winter papers match the Grinchmas line and are so pretty! I have 2 layouts I will be uploading this next week that were designed with the new winter papers. I am also trying to get back to my album using French Market. I also have some acrylic albums sitting here that I want to work on. These new Rusty Pickle albums are to die for! I mention all this to let you know why I haven't uploaded many projects lately. Much of what I'm doing is for something specific that is not released yet. Exciting stuff I tell you!

ok - gotta run and get Lindsay...then tennis...then ballet for Jess...then out to dinner I hope! I will be uploading some photos from the RP Retreat in the next day or two. Beautiful place - and I had the best time!

New Memory Trends Release!

2007-09-17T16:59:00.000-05:00

I just got back from the Rusty Pickle Retreat last night and am half dead tired and half still completely revved up by the new product releases and the new classes that Rusty Pickle has set up for 2008. I will share with you the new releases for Memory Trends. They are AWESOME! The Chocolate Kisses is one of my faves! I made a sample for the booth at Memory Trends, but since my Pirate Princess album got stolen at CHA, they are going to take the one without photos. But if you're going to MT - go check it out...UBER CUTE new line!!! The sticker quotes are hilarious and the perfect thing for making a mini album. I didn't have the stickers or alphas for my sample, so you'll have to imagine it with those instead of my own computer generated phrases. I also got to work with the new French Market line. The colors are so rich and perfect for fall photos. The new acrylic stamps that go with this line are scrumptious...who can have enough flourishes? Not me!

One of the best things coming out is the new acrylic albums. The shapes are the same shape as their chipboard albums...scalloped, rounded tabbed, small square, large square, circle, arrow, tag and flower shapes. AND acrylic alphabets that match their chipboard Random Alphabet font. WOW! I will be working feverishly to get the acrylic album done and my French Market album so I can give you more sneak peeks, but I do have lots to catch up on after my trip - so bear with me.

Lookie!! Lotsa links!

2007-09-11T14:42:00.000-05:00

I've been meaning to post the link to Rusty Pickle so you can see the new winter papers. They are SOOOO awesome. I am having a hard time linking you to the exact post, so just click on the link below for Rusty pickle and page down until you see the winter papers slide show.

And also, be sure to bookmark Rusty Pickle's new blogs. One of them is full of ideas from the Rusty Pickle Chefs, and the other is Lance's blog. You can keep track of where he will be teaching, contests, sneak peeks etc.

ETA: well - after trying to edit the links over and over - and I can still not get the links to go to the right place...I guess I'll just direct you to the main Rusty Pickle site. Go to the bottom of the left hand side and you'll see the links for the "Rusty Pickle Blog" and the "Where in the World is Lance Blog". To see the winter papers, click on the Rusty Pickle Blog, then page down to the August 9th post.

OH! One more thing! Be sure to visit this blog: http://armstrongfamilyfundraiser.blogspot.com/ where you can get more information about the fundraising events and raffle I mentioned a few posts ago - remember, every penny goes to help this family. If you would like to keep up on Tracy's progress you can click on the link to "Visit Tracy's Blog" just below the blog header. It seems he is making baby steps in his recovery, but if you ask me - that is an answer to prayer. After being riddled with bullets, it's wonderful to hear news that he can move even if it's the teensiest bit. If you would like to buy a raffle ticket for a chance to win $500 worth of Rusty Pickle goodies - there is a link for that there as well.

New projects and new photos of my sweet Jess

2007-09-07T22:11:00.000-05:00

Okie dokie, more projects. This first one was made with new Rusty Pickle Addam's Family papers, stickers, cardstock coupons, and some Princess Bride trims. Oh, and the lil chubby chipboard alphas I covered with papers, sanded - then added Glossy Accents to them. This was so much fun to make - I love creating stuff like this.

I must let you know that I'm having computer issues AGAIN and I just got my computer back tonight with a new motherboard. My iPod still won't show up and all my contacts are mysteriously gone, but other than that - things seem to be working ok (hardware-wise that is!). And what is it with blogger these days...when I upload photos it gives me the code - and when I upload a bunch of photos, it makes it so difficult to move them around. argh! frustration setting in...

This has been another busy week...bear with me. For all my friends that I've totally been neglecting, it isn't by choice - I promise you. I miss you all very much, and I owe Kara a huge birthday wish since I failed to touch base with her on her birthday (I'm soooo sorry sweetie!!) I think I owe Cheryl a birthday wish as well...anyone else? My dad's birthday is in a few days, and my 12th anniversary is on Sunday! :) Love you honey!! Also, I will not be around next Thursday-Sunday as I will be at the Rusty Pickle Chef retreat. I can't tell you how excited I am about that!!!

Tonight I leave you with some photos from my photo shoot with Jess this afternoon.

If this touches your heart...

2007-08-31T11:41:00.001-05:00

I want to post about something and try to get the word out about a terrible thing that happened to a good friend of a fellow Rusty Pickle Chef. The man was a victim of random violence - shot 5 times in the chest and is now paralyzed from the chest down. He has a family - 9 children to support. Can you imagine? My heart goes out to this family and I want to get the word out as much as possible.

The owners of Rusty Pickle - being the amazingly generous and kind-hearted people they are - have set up a few things in order to help this poor family. Lance is going to teach some classes and donate every single cent to the family - and they are also donating $500 worth of Rusty Pickle product to a raffle being held at Legacy Scrapbooking in which every penny will go to this family.

I urge you to read this story and do what you can to help. If you can't donate financially, please help me spread the word. Post about it on your blog...post about it on message boards. For the scrappers out there - a $5 or $20 donation for the raffle could reward you with $500 worth of Rusty Pickle loot! Just link people directly to the following site where they can get the story and details about how to help:

CLICK HERE to read about it at Legacy Scrapbooking

Go get your raffle ticket...or if you are able to attend one of Lance's classes - check out the details posted by Mrs. Pickle herself, Tasha, right under Tricia's post. Or do both! Please help.

Do you remember me?

2007-08-30T15:19:00.000-05:00

Bad, bad, neglectful me! I cannot believe that I have not posted since the 12th. What can I say, I have been busy! Well, where to begin. I suppose I owe you all some layouts, don't I? Here are some Rusty Pickle layouts.

The first layout, Rhinestone Cowgirl, features paper, stickers and stamps from the Git R'Dun line from Rusty Pickle. The second layout features the Guenivere line from Rusty Pickle. And the third layout features the Pashmina line from Rusty Pickle.

What else...well, the girls are in school now. Lindsay started first grade and is loving it. Jess started PreK this year and she just smiles from ear to ear everyday when I pick her up. We had company last week - my husband's parents, brother and sister all came for a visit - and we went to Weeki Wachee. If it sounds remotely familiar, it's probably because Paris Hilton and Nicole Richey went there during Simple Life II to help with the mermaid show. Weeki Wachee has been visited by National Geographic and the Travel Channel as they are known for their mermaid show. The girls (especially Jessica) could barely contain themselves...every time I looked at Jess, her eyes were wide open and she had a look of extreme joy on her little face. They couldn't believe their eyes! Real mermaids! lol...one more thing to add to the list of let downs when they're older. No Santa, no Easter Bunny and no mermaids. But it was totally worth the trip, just to see their faces when the curtain on the lake/tank went up. It's basically an underwater play - The Little Mermaid. They also have a natural springs water park. Both girls went down the giant water slides by themselves. I was SHOCKED that Jess did it by herself. They had loads of fun!

I will post some more photos soon!

My FAB weekend!

2007-08-12T23:17:00.000-05:00

I returned home today from a most fabulous weekend at a scrap retreat. I went with my local scrapbooking group (The Scrapyard). We had an absolute blast! As usual, I didn't get a lot done since I tend to spend most of my time gabbing, laughing and snacking. What a fun time - thanks to all the Scrapyard gals in attendance for making it a great weekend! And to Teresa at All Seasons Scrapbook Resort - thank you so much to you and Barbara for providing a wonderful scrappin getaway! We hope to come back again soon!

I promise I will be posting some projects in the next couple days. Just wanted to post a quick hello. I hope you had a great weekend!

Scrapbook Dimensions Calendar and Challenges

2007-08-02T11:28:00.000-05:00

Here are some more peeks at the new Scrapbook Dimensions calendar. Everytime I see a new peek it makes me more and more antsy to get mine in my hot little hands! One of the peeks has my layout in it :)

Also - there is a Yahoo Group just for the weekly challenges using the calendar. You've gotta order your calendar, join the group and have some fun and learn more about hybrid scrapbooking. Here is the link: Calendar Challenges Yahoo Group
Oh - and they are giving away monthly prizes for those that participate. Make sure you bookmark their website too for more info: www.scrapbookdimensions.com

Fun tip for die cutting felt

2007-07-28T20:25:00.000-05:00

One of my challenges I'm hosting at the Scrap Galaxy cyber crop is Felt Frenzy. The challenge is to create your own felt embellishments. While experimenting, I made the following discoveries:

1. Plain old felt doesn't die cut very well. It needs one side to be somewhat stiff. You can:
* buy self adhesive felt
* use Strano Designs Ribbon Stiff (but it will take a lot because the felt will soak it up).
* use another stiffening agent such as {Stiffen Stuff by Beacon}. Spray it on one side of the felt and let dry. Then die cut as you would with paper. This stuff works GREAT on ribbon and fabric too. I bought a bottle at AC Moore about 3 years ago and still have plenty left. I believe it's available at Jo-Anns as well.
* 2 words....packaging tape. Yes! It is wonderful for this technique. Just cover the die cut area with packaging tape (I happened to use clear) then die cut. The packaging tape lends to a much cleaner cut...and it makes it easier to apply the felt because the glue dots or adhesive doesn't get felt remnants all over it. :)

The layout here is simple. Very little embellishments. I simply want to show my felt leaves. I took a black pen to the felt to highlight the center vein of the leaves. Gotta say, I am really enjoying playing with the felt. I would love to see if anyone else is experimenting with felt. It has many possibilites. My challenge was to create a felt embellishment - however you'd like. Stamp on it and cut it out. Cut portions of the design out of several colors and layer parts of the design. Hand stitch the edges of the felt. Highlight parts of the design on the felt with stickles. The sparkle adds a nice touch to the softness of the felt.

Dare ya to try it. And if you do - please come post here and let me know where I can take a peek!

Cyber crop fun!

2007-07-28T18:28:00.000-05:00

Come join the fun at
{Scrap Galaxy} this weekend. We are in the middle of a cybercrop. You have until Monday night to post your projects. I am hosting 3 of the challenges...Felt Frenzy, Journaling Change-Up, and one to be announced tomorrow morning! I hope you stop in and say hello and join in the fun!

Scrapbook.com

2007-07-27T17:58:00.000-05:00

I am so bad - I had signed up at Scrapbook.com a LONG time ago and never set up "My Place". So now - I am trying to get myself set up there and am looking for friends and neighbors. If you already have a "My Place" there, let me know so I can add you to my friends list. If you don't - then go {HERE} and sign up - THEN let me know you're there so I can add you to my friends.

Hope to see you there!!!

hello new neighbor!

2007-07-27T09:38:00.000-05:00

We have a new neighbor. Surprising - as the housing market here doesn't seem like it will ever pull out of the funk it's in. In our neighborhood, there must be 100 houses on the market and I would venture to say that the majority have been on the market for more than 9 months. Now, I don't know that for a fact - so please don't bother correcting me. lol. But I do know that the moving companies are saying that for the first time ever - they are moving more people OUT of Florida than INTO Florida (thank you Hurricanes, severe house price inflation and the fact that people can't get homeowners insurance!).

ANYHOO! Like I was saying, we have a new neighbor. So the girls and I made some fresh banana bread, wrapped it up in freezer paper and tied it up in a bright orange ribbon with hibiscus flowers on it. I made her a quick card and the girls and I walked over to give it to her. She is so nice - and she has grandchildren in the same age range as my kiddos. Haven't met her husband yet - but I did meet one of her granddaughters the other day. I do believe her and Lindsay will hit it off when/if they get a chance to get together to play.

It felt good to do something out of the blue like that. I would like to suggest that you make a card or some muffins or cookies or something and take them to your neighbor...just for the heck of it. :) Let me know what you do - I'd love to hear about it.

Thank you card

2007-07-26T10:17:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to share a thank you card I made using some Prima. I also used some Fancy Pants stamps and my chalks (which I haven't used in FOREVER!!).

some people have all the nerve

2007-07-23T15:18:00.000-05:00

I didn't get to go to CHA, but I did make some samples for a couple different booths. I found out today that the sample mini album kit that I designed was stolen from the Rusty Pickle booth. Why do people do that? It has pictures of my daughter in it for crying out loud. I'm guessing they thought it was cute (why else would they take someone else's album?) and are planning on covering up my photos with their own - but geez...get some decency. It is Rusty Pickle's property - but I am still shocked that someone would do that. You can see some pictures taken from the Rusty Pickle booth at {Scraptalk} The very first photo of the black and pink Pirate Princess papers has my album hanging from the right side. They also took a photo of the packaged kit {here}.

Hope you all had a great weekend. I have some news that I am excited to tell you about....BUT I CAN'T! Hopefully I can share the scoop soon! hehehehe don't you hate when people do that to you?

A must read post

2007-07-19T10:28:00.001-05:00

I was doing my usual blog-hopping and ended up on Melody Ross' blog. First I have to just comment that she has the cutest blog header I've ever seen! Anyway, I perused all the new Chatterbox paper releases (yum!) and kept reading. I happened across {this post} and couldn't stop reading it. I couldn't agree more with her perspective on this. I hope you enjoy her post as much as I did.

Cuteness

2007-07-18T16:10:00.000-05:00

Jess has been running around today in all her cuteness, so of course I had to snap a few photos. Here are a couple of my favorites. The 2nd one I obviously was not paying attention to the focus because her hat is more in focus than her face - BUT - still cute nonetheless. :)

Lindsay has only had a couple tennis lessons so far. Mainly because the past 2 weeks have been cancelled due to rain and/or lightning storms. She needs lots of lessons...but she does look adorable in her little tennis outfit, doesn't she?

GLITZ GLITZ GLITZ!!!!!

2007-07-18T10:22:00.000-05:00

The Glitz Design website has been up for a few weeks now, but NOW they've added the product pictures! Stop what you're doing and go look. {Glitz Design} click on the handbag that says Collection.

I am such a bling freak...I am totally looking forward to getting the 12" Frosting (bling) strips...YUM. The Frosting is square and comes in a package of 2 sizes and they come in yummy colors!

Ok...next, click on the handbag that is for their blog. In case you haven't checked lately, they are posting lots of giveaways on their blog - with new projects and sneak peeks too.

For those of you going to CHA - make sure you stop by the Glitz Design booth, check out all the goodies and say hi to the ladies there (they are so sweet!). I have a sample ensemble there using the Hot Mama line, so if you go - let me know what you think. ;)

Scrapbook Dimensions New Publication

2007-07-16T09:08:00.000-05:00

I've been WAITING for this day! I had mentioned some time ago that I had an exciting publication coming up that I was really excited about. The time has come! I have 4 projects (2 layouts and 2 altered projects) in this 16 month calendar. It is all about hybrid scrapbooking. Have you heard the buzz about hybrids? I can tell you first hand - it is a lot of fun to play with digital elements and incorporate them into my paper trimmer and adhesive scrapbooking. :) If you have never tried this - it's a must! Check this out!
Pre-Order your copy now - it starts shipping in August! Here is the link: Scrapbook Dimensions

I have a sneak peek for you!

2007-07-11T21:52:00.000-05:00

CHA is quickly approaching and sneak peeks are starting to trickle around the message boards. Rusty Pickle released their sneak peeks today and I wanted to share - they are beautiful!!! Be sure to click on each cluster for a bigger view. :)

I'm a CHEF!!!!

2007-07-09T14:58:00.000-05:00

Who knew those wise words in the lids of my Jones soda would be so true! (see previous post). Words cannot describe how excited I am to be a Rusty Pickle Chef! Making their design team is absolutely thrilling for me!! It really was a lot of hard work and late late nights - but on the other hand, it was SO much fun!!! It has been amazing to get to know the other ladies in the race - all just fabulous gals! Seriously, we've been chatting away about non-race-related things and it has been fun just to hang out with them online. Some of them are really good story tellers...we've all gotten some great laughs in during our chats. :)

I just have to say thanks to Rusty Pickle for this fun ride the past 3 weeks. I just know that being a designer for them is going to be an incredible experience. I also have to thank my husband - who wants this for me almost as much as I want it for myself - but who has mentioned that he has missed me during the race. thank you thank you thank you honey! And also - thanks to my local scrap friends that have been cheering me on! My peeps at The Scrapyard...you're the best!!!

I also received my prize from winning the Spring Bling contest at Scrap Galaxy today. Photoshop 5.0!!!! woohoo!!!! Thanks Jess and Brent!

Well...it's been AMAZING

2007-07-05T13:45:00.001-05:00

The Rusty Pickle Amazing Race is over. :( I hardly know what to do with myself today. Honestly, I've found myself staring into space a few times. I'm a little tired, but I can't say enough how much fun the race was and how much I love the projects I've created with Rusty Pickle products. Our last challenge was to create at least 4 party themed items with any of the papers we had left. I chose to use the Island Summer line (as I did on my original submission). I love that line - and it is so bright and colorful...it just screamed 'party' to me. So I did a luau...which, not too surprisingly, is what many of the other contestants did. Here are pics of my entry - you'll see my drink tray, the cup sleeves, the drink umbrellas, the message in a bottle invitations with sand in the bottle, the menu, the lei, tiki lantern and party favor (hula girl with sand and shells).

The announcement for who made the Design Team will be posted on Monday, July 9th. Keep your fingers crossed for me! All the creations made in the course of this race have been spectacular - by ALL the racers! I am honored to be among such talent. I can't imagine voting anyone out - but it has to be done...so keep your fingers crossed for me (NOT to be voted off), would ya?

Here's something fun I want to share with you. The bottles I used for the invitations were Jones soda bottles. I have never bought those before so I didn't know they had little messages on the inside of the lids. When I opened them one by one to empty them out, this is what they said:
Bottle #1: try a new hair color (I JUST bought a box of hair color a couple days ago)
Bottle #2: You will make great gains in any project you undertake.
Bottle #3: You will have a pleasant surprise soon.
Bottle #4: Your fantasy will come true.

LOL...how's that? I'm not superstitious or anything - but I thought that was neat to get those messages on my final project before the announcement is made. :) cool huh?

For my friends in the USA - I hope you had a great 4th of July celebration. We watched the fireworks from our driveway (I love not having to go anywhere!). I did something to my camera though. I was fiddling around with the settings outside in the dark and before I knew it - it just wouldn't take ANY pictures. So I'm bummed. I desperately need to take a photography class - and learn more about my camera!

More Pickleliscious projects

2007-07-01T19:29:00.001-05:00

Forgive me for not knowing how to spell Pickleliscious. Really have no clue. But you know where I'm going though - don't you. :) I have finished my projects for pit stop #6 and #7 and here they are. Pit stop #6 was hosted by http://www.lifetimemoments.com/ - we were instructed to use the chubby heart album and the Princess Bride collection (more yumminess!). I have never done a wedding album - I suppose I just never liked how I looked on my wedding day so I have avoided doing anything with the photos. Terrible excuse, I know. It was one of the best days of my life just for the reason that I married my best friend - who happens to be the most awesome man in the universe. :) That's reason enough, right? So here ya go:

(the ivory colored flourishes were handcut from another paper from the Princess Bride line)...my hands were sooo cramped!

So there's my wedding album. The next challenge was to make a word art/decor project using their jumbo monogram chipboard and whatever paper we have left. I have been itchin' to use the Guenivere line as I adore purple and green together. I decided to do the letters DREAM and make a night light for my girls room. You probably already knew this, but yes, I am a crazy girl and decided that instead of using sequin trim - I would glue each and every sequin by hand. ??? can you say...back spasms? lol- actually, not so funny...it really hurts. But I'm done, and I LOVE it. In the daylight it shimmers and sparkles, and at night it looks so pretty with a nightlight behind it. It folds into a hexagon, but I kinda like it in a half circle shape. It works well on the girls dresser that way. Anyhoo - enough babbling, here it is:

The 8th, and last pit stop will be posted tomorrow around 2pm my time. I can't wait to see what we're supposed to do!

Glitz Design website is up!

2007-06-29T10:59:00.000-05:00

Take just a moment and click on this link: Glitz It Now

They have done an amazing job designing the site - and make sure you click on the contact us link to see a little video clip of the 3 founders. :) The bright ideas page will be full of eye candy after CHA (July 20th) so keep checking back!

So with that, I can share a sneak peek of some of the product. The papers are from the Summer Crush line. I used some pink Bazzill Bling cardstock with it and it looks so fun and summery! The journaling is done on a coordinating journaling card. I will be posting more sneak peeks soon (probably AFTER Rusty Pickle Amazing Race is over next week).

Rusty Pickle Amazing Race II - Pit Stop #5

2007-06-27T09:52:00.000-05:00

* Another Rusty Pickle Amazing Race II pit stop completed...yippee! I have to say that so far, my favorite line has been the new Mayflower line, but the Pashmina line is TO DIE FOR! It is just scrumptious! The trim alone...just beautiful. A must have I tell you!

Here is my entry for this pit stop at Scrap Gal. I continue to take photos instead of scanning because the scanner doesn't capture the full effect of the luscious sequin trim. ;)

Thanks for looking! You can click on the Scrap Gal link above to see the Rusty Pickle Amazing Race II Gallery and see all the entries. We will be starting on the challenge for pit stop #6 in a few hours!

Rusty Pickle Amazing Race II - Pit Stop #4

2007-06-26T14:48:00.000-05:00

Ahoy, me hardies!!!! Pit stop #4 complete! woohoo! We were instructed to complete a 2 page layout using the Cap'n Jack line. I actually spent quite some time on the first layout I did. When I finished, I took pictures and it was then that I noticed my title needed to be moved. It was ok - but I certainly don't want to submit it as my entry. I got out the Undo...but it didn't undo! I need to go get more adhesive remover and try again. I'd love to post that layout here at least. I got up this morning and frantically started working on a 2nd 2-page layout. I got it done in the nick of time - but I can't stop thinking about that first layout. LOL Once I get the thought process going - I have to finish! So hopefully I'll get a chance to fix that layout and post it. In the meantime, you can check out the entries in the Rusty Pickle gallery at Scraps Ahoy: http://www.scrapsahoy.com/content/index.php?option=com_wrapper&Itemid=349

Time's a tickin'....and Lindsay has her tennis lesson in 90 minutes. I gotta get started on pit stop #5 as it's due in the morning!

Rusty Pickle Amazing Race II - Pit Stop #3

2007-06-25T10:15:00.000-05:00

Big sigh and a smile...I finished and uploaded my project from the Rusty Pickle Amazing Race II - Pit Stop #3. You can see it here: Welcome to the World Little One

I am soooo tired. Stayed up until 4am working on it - then got up early to take photos and upload etc. The clue for the 4th pitstop should be posted soon! Then away I go again...gotta love it! I am having such a blast doing these challenges. The last challenge doesn't end at pit stop #8 either...the last challenge will be cleaning up the 2 rooms I have now taken over with scrapbooking! ....and the rest of the house too for that matter ;)

The Scrapyard event on Saturday went great! I didn't get anything done for myself, but my class went very well. I even have a waitlist for additional kits. I heard through the grapevine that the students were all very happy with the class -- that makes me so happy to hear! :)

Well - I need to get a couple things done before the next challenge is posted. I will also apologize now to all my blog and email friends...I promise I will catch up with you guys. I am sorry, I've been a little busy ;) Miss you though!!!

Rusty Pickle Amazing Race II - Pit Stop #2

2007-06-22T11:37:00.001-05:00

Pit stop #2 was at www.amillionmemories.com. I liked the concept of my mini album - but it was really hard to get good pictures again. It definitely looks better in person. Part of my problem was trying to take pictures at 3AM! Talk about bad lighting! LOL Here is a link to my project: http://www.amillionmemories.com/forum/viewlayout.php?id=3204

On the page with a picture of my iPod - the part that says great Tunes is a pocket - and there is a mini CD inside with my favorite music on it. Lots of hidden journaling throughout. I used the Rusty Pickle 4 x 6 wrap around album and the Chocolate Bunny line. Love the brown/blue/cream combo...YUM!

Waiting for the 3rd clue (which is the only way I have time to come update my blog!). I am so tired. Didn't actually go to bed until 4am after getting my pics loaded and all. Then I quietly sneak into the bedroom and WHAM! this terrible odor completely overwhelms me! I was blaming it on Tom's feet (bwahahahaha!!! love you honey!) but it wasn't. I like to tease though. It was, however, some smelly socks that had been worn in 100 degree weather playing golf and then they were zipped up in a bag and forgotten about. Holy moly...I couldn't sleep in there. So I had a restless few hours on the couch. Need to go start the dishwasher and laundry and whatever else I can get done before Clue #3 shows up!

Finished with Pit Stop #1 (Amazing Race)

2007-06-20T09:15:00.000-05:00

Good morning! I finished my album for the first pit stop of the Rusty Pickle Amazing Race. I love mini albums - but have always had a hard time photographing them so you get the same effect as looking at them in person. Tom even mentioned that you just don't get the same effect looking at them online as when he's holding it in his hands. Oh well - generally speaking - I think that's the case for most any mini album. You can't be interactive with them just looking at a photo. At any rate, I do love mine - and will be saving it for my girls. It is kind of a letter (of sorts) to them about living life - letting their beautiful personalities and warm hearts guide them. Jess has a tendency to hang her head and pout if she can't do something as well as her sister, so my notes to her are more about believing in herself, keep trying, and never give up. Both of the girls love getting comments about how pretty they are (who doesn't?) but I don't want them to grow up thinking that's who they are - just 2 pretty little girls. They are SO much more than that (hey, I'm their mother! heehee). Seriously though, Lindsay LOVES people and animals and is such a great kid. She is a lot of fun - and loves to make other people laugh. So that is what my journaling is about for her...she's not just a pretty face...she is an amazing person with a whole lot more to offer.

Anyhoo - Not sure if we're allowed to post our projects or not, so here is a link to the thread at Scrapbook.com where all the finalists are posting their entries: http://www.scrapbook.com/forums/showtopic.php?tid/1423963/tp/1/ I think the first entry starts around page 3 (??)...there are links provided in the posts. My links are on page 4 - although you can also see them if you just go to my homepage at Scrapbook.com: http://www.scrapbook.com/myplace/index.php?u=79202 and you'll see at the top right - pics from my gallery.

The deadline is today at noon (I'm guessing MT zone?) so if you want to see them all, check back around that time. I will be anxiously awaiting our next clue and will then be off and creating again! I'll take this opportunity to say thank you to my family for eating leftovers and frozen food the last 2 days (bwahahahahaha!!!). I promise I'll make you a hot meal tonight...but tomorrow you may be eating cereal or popcorn for dinner! Seriously though - thank you to my hubby for understanding (sorta) this whole world of scrapbooking and what it means to me. I wouldn't be able to create these things if I didn't have the best, most supportive hubby in the world! MWAH!!

Creating to be a Chef and teaching

2007-06-19T10:24:00.000-05:00

Morning friends! The Rusty Pickle Amazing Race started the last part of the race yesterday so I was creating all afternoon and into the wee hours of the morning. I think Tom must've talked to the girls before he left because when they got up, they were so quiet - they let me sleep in. I had woke up earlier but fell back asleep. I was shocked when I woke up again and it was 9:30! yikes! So anyway - I'm up now - 2 cups of coffee down the hatch, and now I've got to go get more photo paper before the rest of my Rusty Pickle supplies show up. As soon as they get here - I'll be glued to my scraproom chair. :) After the deadline (this Wednesday at noon) I'll post and let you know where you can see them. We are using the new Mayflower collection and it is to die for! You will definitely want to check out everyone's creations!

Wish me well - I REALLY REALLY want to be a Rusty Pickle Chef! Speaking for myself here - I always love when other people like my work. I know some people that couldn't care less what other people think - but I'm not one of them. I want people to be inspired in some way...and I certainly hope that will be the case with my entry. I want it to ROCK! Rusty Pickle has given us the opportunity to be a part of their great team - and the possibility of future teaching and/or designing kits just makes me giddy! I LOVE THAT!!! I took a class from Kristan Paolacci at CKU Orlando in 2005 and at the time thought "not only would it be awesome to do what she's doing right now, but to get to work with this product?" ...so this really is a long time coming (2 years seems like a long time right now...) and I really hope I make the cut. :) fyi - they (RP) hope to do this last part of the Amazing Race in 2 weeks. New Chefs will be chosen/announced at that time.

Speaking of teaching...this Saturday is the Scrapyard semi-annual event and I am teaching a class there. I hope to see some of you there! My class is a handmade mini album featuring some GORGEOUS Prima paper and matching flowers. There is a lot more in the kit (a couple sheets of Bazzill, a full sheet of alpha stickers, rhinestones, specialty trims, ric-rac, other ribbon, chipboard, flourishes, buttons, tags and MORE! I even packaged up all the embellies in a window tin with the Scrapyard logo on it. So cute! More importantly - you will end up with an awesome mini-album! Make sure to ask about what you need to bring to class if you haven't received that information already. Don't forget to wear your Scrapyard shirts and get an additional entry for the grand prize (um...there's an iPod shuffle in there in addition to the bag and all it's scrapbook product glory!) See you there!

I am distraught!

2007-06-17T20:13:00.000-05:00

Somebody help me please! My iPod is suddenly corrupt! ??? Right in the middle of a song it just stopped. I can't turn it off and it won't change songs or play or anything. I left it alone for awhile and it eventually started playing again. Well, I hooked it up to iTunes and it told me it was corrupt and to restore. So I tried restoring and it says it can't. I downloaded the new version of iTunes and restarted the computer - and now (after about a dozen attempts) I get into iTunes but my device is not listed - so I can't even TRY to restore now. ??? I'm sad! I love my music - I need my music!

Who doesn't love a giveaway?

2007-06-15T14:04:00.000-05:00

Glitz Design is giving away a sweet little handbag filled with Glitz goodies! All you have to do is comment on their blog (read their blog post to find out what you are commenting on!) and they will pick a random winner. Good luck!

http://glitzitnow.blogspot.com/

Rusty Pickle entries

2007-06-12T21:05:00.000-05:00

Here are photos of my Rusty Pickle entries. My personal fave was my altered item. It is an actual betta fish tank...but I decided to put a paper goldfish in there - cut from RP paper. Even the 'seaweed' is cut from RP paper. It was SO fun to make and I still love it!! It is sitting here on my scrapbook bookshelves looking all cute :) I just may decide to get myself a real little fishy to put in there. Name him Scrappy or something, LOL. The name on the tank "Woody" is there because my DD has a blue Betta named Woody, but I don't think I want to hand over this tank to a 6 year old. So I'll have to change the sticker letters instead ;)

My mini album was made with coconut shells. It fit the theme and papers so well, I couldn't help myself. I've posted a few of the pages inside.

My layout is actually quite simple - but I feel that it showcases a variety of Rusty Pickle product without it looking cluttered or forced. That was my goal.

Home again, home again!

2007-06-11T19:27:00.001-05:00

ahhh, it's so good to be home. We have been in Atlanta since last Wednesday and although it was a lot of fun being back on my old stompin' grounds, it's always good to return home. :) I got to hang out with my best buddy Kara (I missed you so much - it was sooooo good to see you again, my friend!!) and also got to meet an online friend and fellow scrapper from ScrapGalaxy. Angie - you're an awesome person...can't wait to come back and scrap with you!

So the whole reason we went was for a 'by invitation only' golf tournament for Tom. His friend and him were a team and they won their flight! I am so proud of him!! Hopefully he will be invited back next year! During the tournament, we stayed with his teammate (long time friend) and his family. We had such a wonderful time staying there - they have 2 boys and my 2 girls thoroughly enjoyed having them to play with. They also have a little Pug puppy - oh my goodness - he is soooo adorable! I am hoping to get my pics off my camera tomorrow. I will try to post a couple pics.

Well, no Rusty Pickle boxes yet - but I did tell them I'd be out of town so hopefully I'll get the 3 (yes, three!!!) big ol' boxes of their awesome product sometime in the next few days! I am waiting (not so patiently...lol!) for them!!

Rusty Pickle Amazing Race II

2007-06-04T15:46:00.000-05:00

I am happy to report that I am one of the top 20 finalists in the Rusty Pickle Amazing Race II contest. Who am I kidding...happy doesn't begin to describe it. I am ECSTATIC!!! woohoo!!!

Here is a list of the finalists:
Beckie Dryers
Libby W. Mac Neilly
Rachelle Minett
Christine Middlecamp
Kim Sonksen
Kathie Davis
Brenda Neuberger
Cami Bauman (yay!)
Missy Jaycox
Mou Saha
Ginger Ditton
Jill Cornell
Jill Cornelius
Kimberly L. Camarotti
Alycia M Sanders
Kelly Cranfill
Amanda Oates
Casey Rivas
Ann Corbiere-Scott
Tracey Locher

Huge congrats to each of the finalists! Good luck to each of you - let's get this race started!

Older product - newer look!

2007-06-03T21:08:00.000-05:00

This is a layout I did as a demonstration for this month's technique challenge at ScrapGalaxy. I love scalloped paper and wanted to challenge everyone to make their own with their circle punches (or pinked edges with square punches or photo corner punches). I had to take a photo of the layout because I had some serious layering going on on the left side. I layered 3 flowers with 2 chipboard stars over a chipboard flourish that has rhinestones on it. Needless to say - that doesn't scan well. :) I used some old Chatterbox product (trying to be good and use up some stash!), Prima, Fancy Pants, American Crafts, Heidi Swapp and a Krylon Silver Leafing Pen. I hope everyone had a great weekend!
(**Click on the images for a better view**)

Mini Album

2007-06-01T16:43:00.000-05:00

I made this album for the Spring Bling contest over at ScrapGalaxy and thought I'd share it here as well. I tried compiling a collage of each page so I'd only need to do one upload (and save them some space) but it's kinda hard to see each page - so I figured this would be a good place to post them.

Blending the old with new

2007-05-30T20:16:00.000-05:00

* This was a personal challenge for myself. I wanted to use a combination of old (some of it is very old!) and new product. This layout features primarily Rusty Pickle products as it was one of the layouts I designed for the RP Amazing Race. I decided to submit a different layout simply because, although it is a simpler layout, the picture on the other layout really sells the product better. This layout features 7 different Rusty Pickle papers. Can you find them all? It also features 3 styles of their their chipboard, a file folder, punch out parenthesis and even one of the Easter stickers. The alpha stamps are Fontwerks, the chipboard alphas are Scenic Route (painted with Adirondack dabber paints) and I added ribbon, lace trim, tag altered with walnut ink and rhinestones.

The title is "Your 5 minutes are up!" and the journaling on the tag says:

So much for picture taking. I asked for just 5 minutes. By the time I got this shot, I gathered that you were trying to tell me that my 5 minutes was up!

more sneak peeks at Glitz!

2007-05-30T18:03:00.000-05:00

check it out here: http://glitzitnow.blogspot.com/
The papers are so fun!!

2007-05-28T18:50:00.000-05:00

I've been tagged again with a little game. The game is SCATTERGORIES...it's harder than it looks! Here are 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! If you can't think of anything, skip it. Try to use different answers if the person before you had the same 1st initial. You CAN'T use your name for the boy/girl name question.

Your Name: Cami
1. Famous Singer/Band: Chris Daughtry
2. 4 letter word: Camp
3. Street: Court
4. Color: Crimson
5. Gifts/Presents: China
6. Vehicle: Chevy
7. Things in a Souvenir Shop: China
8. Boy Name: Christopher
9. Girl Name: Chloe
10. movie title: City of Angels
11.Drink: Coke
12. Occupation: Clerk
13. Flower: Columbine
14. Celebrity: Cameron Diaz
15. Magazine: Card Maker
16. U.S. City: Colorado Springs
17. Pro Sports Teams: Chiefs
18. Fruit: Cranberry
19. Reason for Being Late for Work: Can't find the keys
20. Something You Throw Away: coupons (I always find them in the bottom of my purse!)
21. Things You Shout: Cut it out!
22. Cartoon Character: Chip (as in Chip & Dale)

So now it's my turn to tag...Rita, Linda and Suzanna. I'd tag Christi - but I think she has her hands full with her new sweet baby girl. ;)

I need a new blog header

2007-05-27T11:30:00.000-05:00

I've come to the conclusion that I want to design (or have one designed!) a new blog header. This template is ok - but I really want something that is artsy! Does anyone have any tips for me if I try to do this myself? Or does anyone know of someone that does them? I may change the name of my blog too....any suggestions?

Feelin' itchy!!!!

2007-05-24T22:05:00.000-05:00

Man! I am working with the new Glitz products and I am ITCHIN' for you guys to see this stuff! But....I can't show you though and it's kiiiiilling me! I finished my first 'set' of projects. They turned out way cute!! (yes, I'm reverting back to the 80's...WAY!). The Glitz gals are going to continue the sneak peeks on their blog though - so you can see one of the sneak peeks (Glitz Netz) and a look at a future giveaway if you go there now. Their link is on my sidebar to the left. Learn where it is because you're gonna want to keep checking it out. :)

I'm still working on my Rusty Pickle stuff too...so I still can't show you that. I feel awful! I've been so busy working on those things plus my classes for the upcoming events...yet I can't share anything. I feel like I need to go create something just so I can post it here!

I hope all you artists out there are feelin' the creative mojo. I need to catch up on reading my fave blogs too - I am very behind on that. Now that season finales are all over I might get even more done. Speaking of season finales -

24 - oh my! not sure what Jack was about to do there on that balcony. I seriously have to wait until January to find out!?? that bites. I absolutely love this show and have NEVER missed an episode. Don't they usually leave us with a little teaser for what the theme of next season is going to be? They didn't this time so I'm left with nothing to ponder. :(

Dancing with the stars - I just love Apolo, and his partner has got to be the cutest little thing on earth. They made a great team and I am SO glad they won! I loved Leila and Joey too - they are both awesome...but something about Apolo had me pulling for him the whole time.

AI - whew! Thank you to the voting public for actually voting for the better singer for this years' finale. After last year, I didn't think I wanted to watch this year. Sorry, I am SO not a Taylor Hicks fan. Then this year Sanjaya ruined it for me again. Anyone ever watch The Soup? I keep hearing whispers in my head...Sanjaya......lol. I loved Melindas voice too, but I have been a Jordin fan for most of the show, so I was thrilled that she won. Even if I did have to find out by going to the internet (darn those shows that run over - the DVR didn't get the announcement! aaaargh!).

oh! And Desperate Housewives - what the heck? Edie??????? I was not expecting that at all! The small wedding out in the middle of nowhere was soooo sweet. I loved that.

Grey's anatomy - I am not sure what to think of George. what the heck? I cannot believe what happened to him. And the intern that was talking to him at the end...(hand over mouth) oh my! Christina and Burke - so sad. :( Why is she so stinkin' stubborn! I did get a good laugh over her eyebrows though. bwahahahahahaha!!!!!

LOST - ummmm....so that last scene...did it make your eyes get big and your jaw drop like it did to me? Locke is starting to tick me off. Stop it dude! You don't have to be rescued if you don't want to be, but stop ruining it for everyone else! And Charlie...ok, I cried. I admit it. I knew it was coming, but after seeing him think he'd fooled fate - then to see his face when he saw cyclops (that's what Charlie called him..not me!) outside that window - just made me so sad for him. So now I'm wondering just who that woman is (was) that crashed her helicopter and saying she's been looking for them with Pennelope. Makes me wonder who is on their way to meet them at the tower. ??? SOOOOOOOOO many questions...but I'm glad they gave us that little flash forward in the last scene.

ok - see? I watch too much tv. Hopefully the summer will prove to be very productive here in the studio since all my shows are over!

Great weekend

2007-05-21T07:28:00.000-05:00

What did you do this past weekend? I must say I had a pretty enjoyable weekend. Saturday morning I took the girls to the aquarium again. That was the best investment I've ever made...the annual passes. We've been there like 8 times in the last month. It paid for itself on the 2nd visit. We met some friends down there and the kids played for a few hours until we had to get home. I had friends coming over for a crop at my house and I needed to get ready. I ended up getting the house ready - but not myself...lol, but that's ok. My friends like me whether I get my makeup and hair done or not...thank goodness! I looked like a wreck! Anyway, I was helping one of my friends in with her supplies and my neighbor was outside asking if we were having a party - to which I replied, "Scrapbooking!" - she looked intrigued so I told her to come on over! So she did. :) Yay! I got another project done for the Rusty Pickle contest (I think someone had asked which contest I was working on) but I can't share it until June 1st when entries are due. I am really loving how my altered item turned out and I want to share it with you so bad! Two more weeks and I can.

So anyway, one of my friends ended up just staying here for the night since we stayed up until 5am. Most people left around 2:15-3:00am. What can I say...we always have a lot of fun when we get together. I love the little scrappy circle I'm in! Thanks to those of you that came and provided me with hours of entertainment :) I love ya!

Sunday was a little eventful. The girls went to go swimming and we discovered that Jessica's swim floaties had a hole in them so I went to go get her some more. I walked out the front door to see a fire at the playground across the street from us. I ran in and told Tom (who was floating around in the pool) - so he got out and ran over there with a bucket. He dumped a couple dozen buckets of pond water on the blaze before the fire department showed up. He said that the swings had caught on fire and if he hadn't gotten there - they would've gone up in flames. We have a serious rain deficit here in FL...about 15" the last I heard. The playground is all wood and surrounded by mulch. Dry mulch! We are lucky that those swimmies had a hole in them or it could've been a bad fire. Tom really did a great job putting it out. My hero! (batting eyelashes..) lol

Tonight is the 2 hour season finale of 24. I am so sad it's already over...I already can't wait for next season! I'm not going to miss this finale like I did last week's Greys Anatomy (@#!^&!). I thought it was recording but apparently I was wrong (boohoo!!!) Then Friday there was a Dr. Phil special on so there wasn't the usual episode replay that night. I need to go watch it online before that's gone too!

I hope you all have a great week - make every moment count :)

Teaching at Scrapyard's Annual Scrapbooking Event

2007-05-18T07:06:00.001-05:00

I've finished my project for my class at Scrapyard's annual scrapbooking event and I am so excited about it. I love how it turned out! The event will be on June 23rd from 10-6pm in Tampa, FL. How about a sneak peek?

Teaching at Cropfest!!

2007-05-14T19:54:00.000-05:00

I think it's official - I hope so, since I'm about to tell you (LOL!)...

I will be teaching at Cropfest in Clearwater this July 6-8. I am very excited about this! It will be at the Belleview Biltmore Clearwater. I hope to see you there!! (look at the pictures on the website...it looks gorgeous!!)

Happy Mothers Day!!!

2007-05-13T08:51:00.000-05:00

Happy Mother's Day to my wonderful mom! You are an amazing woman, role model and friend. Thank you for all you do!

Happy Mother's Day as well, to my mother in law and all my friends that are moms. I hope it's an extra special relaxing and joyful day!

happy birthday to me....yesterday!

2007-05-11T08:34:00.000-05:00

I had a great birthday yesterday. Tom kept trying to butter me up by commenting on my 25th birthday (yeah, right!). I hung out with my friend Cari for most of the day yesterday - but left for a little bit so I could attend a 'tea party' with Lindsay's kindergarten class. It was sooo cute! The class sang songs and each of the kids stood up and read the letters they wrote to their moms. Here is Lindsay's letter:

Then Tom comes home and takes me out to Bonefish Grill for a fresh Halibut and mango salsa dinner..YUM!!! When we got home Tom and the girls surprised me (not really a big surprise) with a mint chocolate ice cream cake. mmmmmm Tom did surprise me with an AWESOME gift! A Bose docking station for my iPod. It is amazing!! It's already found a nice little spot in my scrap room. I LOVE this little baby...it packs a lotta punch! Thank you to my family for a wonderful birthday!! That includes the unexpected call from my brother Bret and the other emails I received. You guys are the BEST!

We ALL need a little Glitz in our lives!

2007-05-08T19:46:00.000-05:00

Who doesn't enjoy Glitz? People that know me, know that I'm all about the Glitz. Which is why I've been chomping at the bit to tell you my good news! I have been asked to be a designer for Glitz Design!!! Keep your peepers peeled on that website. I tell ya - some super fun stuff coming your way at CHA! In the meantime, you can check out their blog here: http://glitzitnow.blogspot.com/ There are sneak peeks thrown in several of the posts. If you check out their post today and play the video - you'll see what fun-loving gals they are. So silly...I love it! I cannot wait to start working with these wonderful ladies!

Feels like summer!

2007-05-07T09:13:00.000-05:00

The weather sure has been hot here lately. The girls have broken in their swim suits already. I think in the last week and a half they've played at the water park 3 times and have swam in our pool twice. They love the water! Here are a few pictures.

I have already scrapped one but I cannot share it with you yet as the layout is for a contest. You'll see it eventually though. :) I hope all my scrapping friends had a great National Scrapbook Day last Saturday and got in some good crop time. I went to an all day crop yesterday with 3 of my friends and we had a great time. I got some good news Friday night (scrapbook related) but I'm not sure if I can share it yet. I will post what I'm so excited about as soon as I can though! :)

Have a great Monday!

What are you doing on NSD?

2007-05-05T18:27:00.000-05:00

Check out this super cool blog and make a comment about what you're doing or did on NSD for a chance to receive some SWEET products that aren't even available yet!

http://glitzitnow.blogspot.com/

Tell someone thank you...

2007-05-03T23:10:00.000-05:00

Take a moment today and tell someone thank you. Even if it's for something small. Let someone know you appreciate them. And if you have more than a minute - make them a card. I love getting cards in the mail. They make me SMILE!!! So go now, go make someone else smile.

So cool...

2007-05-03T10:44:00.000-05:00

I can't remember whose blog I saw this on - but I decided I'd put one on my blog just out of curiosity. If you go all the way to the bottom of my blog, you'll see a map of the world. Click on that and it will show you where my blog readers live. Then you will see a link for the map with smaller clusters...click on that link and the map will get a little more detailed (the first one lumps areas together). I am amazed to find that I have blog readers all over the world! That is SO COOL!

Dress Rehearsals

2007-05-01T21:03:00.000-05:00

What a hectic day. We left at 9:30 am to go to the park to meet up with some of the other moms and kids from ballet. We thought it would be good to have them all play together before the big rehearsal. Well, 10 minutes into playing - Jess comes up complaining about her foot. I took her shoe off and the whole back of her foot was peeled off (HUGE broken blister). Of course, I don't have a bandaid and I don't have a pair of flip flops. So Jess and her little friend sat at the table and ate pretzels until we had to go. The rest of the day was spent running from one thing to another and we ended up going to the ballet dress rehearsal at 3:30. I was advised to put on hot pink lipstick, blush, and white eyeshadow on Jess so that she wouldn't be washed out on stage under the lights...so when you look at the pics below you'll know why she has on the heavy makeup.

I got home at 6:30, Chili's to go in tow (southwestern eggrolls...YUM-O!). I am so tired - but really just enjoying the nice, quiet house right now. Still plugging away at my pot of coffee (see previous post). I would really like to try to scrap tonight, but I am so exhausted that I'm afraid I'd just go sit in my chair and stare at some pretty paper or something...lol. Or maybe I'll feel energized once I polish off more of my coffee. ;) Who knows... at any rate, here are more of the pics I took at dress rehearsal today.

I've been tagged!

2007-04-30T22:27:00.000-05:00

Ok - so Linda had tagged me last week and I've been really bad at catching up on the computer lately (sorry!). I am supposed to list 7 random facts/habits about myself. I'm warning you, this isn't going to be pretty...

one: I get the uncontrollable urge to yawn...over and over whenever I read my kids' books to them. Without fail.

two: Aside from snow skiing, I do not have an athletic bone in my body.

three: I make a pot of coffee every night around 8:45 pm. (and I'm not talkin' decaff!)

four: I was a band geek from 4th grade through all of high school. I played the flute and piccolo. (I can hear you now - "this one time...at band camp...")

okay, getting a little more serious now

five: I am painfully shy. Always have been...always will be (until you get to know me, then I don't ever shut up! bwahahahaha!!!!) I don't view that (being shy) as a negative thing by the way...

six: I was adopted as a baby...and have the most wonderful and incredible family! Couldn't have hand picked a better family. Part of being adopted is the thinking about the unknown. I do sometimes wonder about my birth parents. I've tried not to wonder, I really have...but it's unavoidable. Not that I'm looking for them - but curiosity about how they look, medical history etc...those are hard things to ignore. I think it would be interesting just to know who they are. I have absolutely no hard feelings - I have had a truly wonderful life and am grateful that my birthparents loved me enough to want me to have that.

seven: I don't know that I've ever really mentioned this to anyone aside from my VERY close friends. It was a great time in my life - but it was soooooo long ago! Anyway, I was Miss Colorado American Coed back in 1987. It's hard to believe that was 20 years ago! yikes! Aside from some cash, scholarship and some other goodies, I got an all expense paid trip to Hawaii to compete for the National title of Miss American Coed. We even made a commercial for MTV while we were there. They also gave me my own stationery and cards. I did the whole parade thing...sitting on the back of a convertible and doing the beauty queen wave (giggle) as that was part of the gig. still have my crown and banner somewhere...

I know I'm supposed to tag another 7 people, but many of my bloggin friends have been overly tagged...so I'm just going to say that if you'd like to do the same thing, simply post your own 7 random facts/habits then come here and let me know so I can come take a peek. :) I would love to get to know my readers better!

Florida Aquarium

2007-04-26T08:07:00.000-05:00

Yesterday Jessica and I went to the Florida Aquarium. We really didn't spend much time looking at the fish - but instead, we went out back and spent most of our time playing in the water park. It was a beautiful, 80-something degree day, sun shining, blue skies...and lots of kiddos running around giggling and making new friends. Here are a few pictures from our day. In the last photo, you can see the big gray ship in the background. The aquarium is at Channelside so there are lots of boats around.

I have been consumed by everyday life in the past couple weeks so I haven't taken the time I want in my scrap room, but I have some big all day crops coming up and a couple evening crops too - so stay tuned for some new, fresh layouts and projects! I have had some requests for details on how I did the embossed chipboard from my top 5 entry for MM Idol. I will get some photos and instructions posted soon. :) I have also been tagged by my amazingly artistic friend Linda - so I'll be posting that in the next couple days. Have a great Thursday!

Cool notebook find...

2007-04-23T21:12:00.000-05:00

I was at Wal-Mart last week looking for some tissue paper and a gift bag and ended up finding this little gem:

The pattern on the cover is velvety and just so cool. Totally reminds me of Heidi Swapp's fuzzy rub-ons. But look inside! I am totally in love with the inside pages...I am going to be using these like crazy on my layouts. I just think this makes for a superb background for my journaling. I think everyone should go get this little notebook - it's too darn pretty not to! In fact - I'm going to go add some luscious ribbons to the spirals.

We had a great weekend - although I was still recovering today from the dual birthday parties I took Lindsay to on Sunday. My fabulous friend Cari let me leave Jess there so I could take Linds to the 2nd party (which Jess wasn't invited to). I can't say thank you enough Cari! Both parties were Tinkerbell themed and both parties were FAB! The girls had SUCH a great time. It was the first party Jessica has ever been invited to so it was extra special for her...she even made nice with Cari's dog, which she has been absolutely terrified of from day 1. He is a Rottweiler/Mastiff mix and if he makes contact with his tail - it leaves a little sting for a 4 year old! So anyway, when I came to pick her up she said - Mom! I just love Smokey! Yay! Now Cari doesn't have to make Smokey go through separation anxiety every time we come over by locking him in the bedroom or putting him out back just so he can sit by the glass doors and display his giant puppy dog eyes. He is truly a friendly, lovie-dovie dog...he just wants to play and be around people.

So tonight was the night of my fave TV show, 24. I love that show. I say, Jack Bauer for President. I can't believe Silver Spoons ruined Jack's plans - but am glad since that would've meant, well, no more Jack. That doesn't really give anything away, since people are always ruining Jack's plans. What a show - the last minute or two definitely leaves some questions in the air...Can't wait for next Monday!!! And what about what happened with Mr. B?!!! Poor guy!!!

ok - enough rambling...I need to go make some Thank You cards. g'night!

WooHoo for Friday!

2007-04-20T08:53:00.000-05:00

I found out the other day that 4 of my layouts/projects have been requested for a special publication that is still top secret (hehehe...). Have to let out a big WooHoo!!! for that! I am thrilled about this and spent yesterday doing the paperwork and taking a million photos trying to get the best lighting etc. I can't wait to share with you what this special publication is - not sure when that will be, but I'll definitely be posting on my blog when that time comes!

I love Fridays...the anticipation of having everyone at home over the weekend just delights me. Even though I have a rather hectic weekend with plans on both Saturday and Sunday that don't involve my whole family, it's those moments in between the plans when we're all hangin' around and enjoying the beautiful weather and each other. Usually we grill on the mac-daddy grill I bought Tom for Christmas. I don't think I ever shared a picture of this thing on my blog so here it is...and no - that isn't Tom, that's the guy in the advertisement (lol). He is standing in front of the part of the grill that has the single burner, and 2 drawers that mimics the right side of the grill:

Tom loves to grill and to have a grill station like this with extras like an ice chest, rotisserie, searing burner, and even a drawer with a built in paper towel dispenser to clean up any messes makes it even more enjoyable! :) The weather is supposed to be mid 80's all weekend with no rain - so I would imagine that we'll be outside on the lanai all weekend. The girls will likely get in the pool until their lips turn purple. We do not have a heated pool, so we have to rely on good old sunshine to do the trick. But here in FL - we get plenty of that!

I promised the girls we'd pick up Lindsay from school today and go out for ice cream with a friend and her girls. Maybe I'll get lucky and get some good photos today.

Have a wonderful weekend - enjoy the beautiful weather if that is what's in your forcast - but more importantly...enjoy those moments with the ones you love. MWAH!

Some pictures from our flower picking day

2007-04-18T09:24:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, while we were waiting for Lindsay's bus to come, Jess and I went flower (weed) picking. Jess wore one of her cowboy hats since it was so sunny out (she loves those things!). Here are some pictures from our adventure. *ETA: the hat was from Target :)

It is such a beautiful day today. We are expecting to get up to 80 degrees or so and the skies are relatively clear - so blue skies and warm weather...gotta love it! Hope everyone enjoys their day today. I will be busy doing housework and running to get groceries - but hopefully I will be scrapping tonight! LOST is on tonight - can't wait!

I'm a lucky girl!!

2007-04-14T10:02:00.000-05:00

I went to a scrapbooking yard sale today at the neighborhood down the street. There were about 20 tables set up with different 'vendors' (most of them were just scrappers trying to get rid of their old stuff). Nothing much was really catching my eye...well, if you know me - you know that my scraproom looks pretty much like a store. It's messy in here, but I have a LOT of stuff...so most of the stuff was either waaaaay out of date, or stuff I already had. But then...I walk up to this table and literally - at my feet was this pink beauty! Holy smokes!! It looks fairly close to brand new too - it is in EXCELLENT condition, inside and out!

And here is the price tag...

Yes, that's right. 20 smackers. Oh my goodness...I think I died and went to heaven! Compare that tag to this one: http://www.shopatron.com/product/product_id=MEM27174/388.0

Am I a lucky girl or what?!!!

I just mentioned to Tom about 2 days ago how I wish I had a rolling tote and that I thought I was the only scrapper left on earth that didn't have one. I typically use just your basic suitcase when I go to crops. lol... As it happens...tonight I'm going to a crop - great timing eh?

As my friend Sarah from New Zealand (kiwigirl!) would say...I'm going to go bask in its pinkness! :)

You light up my life...

2007-04-12T08:08:00.000-05:00

Ok, who thought I was talking about the song? lol Nope, I'm talking about this sweet little night light cover I made using Making Memories papers from a couple different collections, their flower stickers, pictures printed on vellum and some ribbon. Two of the sides have pictures of my DD Jessica and the other two sides were made by placing MM flower stickers on a piece of vellum, then I cut out the inside of the flowers with a craft knife leaving cut outs that the night light shines through. When the night light is turned on, you can see floral patterns on the night stand from these cutouts. I found a cube style, tabletop night light that fits inside just perfectly! I love it when that happens! Sorry - didn't do a very super job sizing these and putting them together, but I have a 4 year old trying to get my attention at the moment. Click on the pics to see a bigger view.

End of the road with MM Idol

2007-04-10T17:39:00.000-05:00

I am so sad to say that I did not make the cut to the next round of MM Idol. I kept refreshing the screen to see the results and when my impatience got the best of me, I checked my email - and there was the email from MM letting me know that I did not advance to the Top 3. I would be lying if I said I wasn't disappointed. Actually, my heart just SANK when I saw the topic of the email didn't have the usual 'congratulations' in it. I am, however, very proud of myself for coming this far. The top 5 out of 1,000 is a major accomplishement. It will just take a day or 2 for me to get over the disappointment. The goal was SO close...then 'poof'! (big sigh...) Ok, moving on...

That being said, thank you so very much to all of you that voted for my work. I appreciate every single one of you!!! I will just have to enter again next year.

It's a mystery...

2007-04-09T07:40:00.000-05:00

Today starts another round of voting for MM Idol! Here's the link: http://www.makingmemories.typepad.com/mmidol/
or here: http://www.makingmemories.com/mmidol/index.cfm?go=showPublicPortfolios&CFID=2389060&CFTOKEN=25811512

This week, each contestant in the top 5 were given the same 3 photos to use on a layout. We could use any of the photos - as long as we used at least one. So as far as the pictures are concerned - this makes the competition completely anonymous. We were told just to make up the journaling. The next part of the challenge was that we were to 'invent' a new technique for chipboard. We were also not allowed to add any text this time to explain our techniques - the pictures had to do the talking. This challenge was definitely more difficult for me because it's not easy to just invent some new technique in a matter of days. I had lots of ideas and spent the week doing LOTS of trial and error. Then, when I finally thought of something that I thought was pretty cool, I started wondering if it was good enough. I had to remember the post that Wilna made on the MM Idol blog about this very thing. You can read her post here:
http://makingmemories.typepad.com/mmidol/2007/04/how_to_simplify.html
What a great post. Stick with your idea...make it work. She also mentioned the doubts and how she thought her idea was so obvious etc... I tell ya - I went through these very same thoughts this week. I finished up yesterday and while I was initially doubting what I did - I walked away for awhile and when I came back and looked at my layout, I liked it! I think I had just been looking at the same thing for so long and really needed to get away from it and think about something else. Clear my head of any doubts.

After voting has ended on Tuesday, I will post my project here so you'll know which one is mine. The voting this week will determine the top 3! Then the top 3 will work on one last challenge - the winner will be chosen next week! Please vote this week and next - it will make a difference to someone! I can only hope that my layout will stand out and people will want to vote for it - we will find out tomorrow night!

WOW!!! Down to the top 5!!!

2007-04-03T19:42:00.000-05:00

Results were posted a few hours ago...I made the top 5!!!!! woohooooooo!!!!!!!!Thank you once again to those that enjoyed my project and voted! I am so very grateful to be able to continue with these challenges - and loving every second of the creative process that goes into each of the projects I've made. I really believe that I've made useful projects and not things that will get put in a box and put away somewhere. I am happy...soooo happy!

I am already starting to get the wheels turning. This next week will be a challenge unlike any you've seen yet..I promise you, you will be surprised when you go to look at the entries next week!

Here is the link to the announcement and the pics of the top 5 projects (and who made them):

http://makingmemories.typepad.com/mmidol/2007/04/its_time_to_rev.html

MM Idol Challenge #5

2007-04-02T13:59:00.000-05:00

The entries are posted for MM Idol Challenge #5 - but this time...they were posted without the artist's name, so you'll just have to vote for your favorite! Be sure to click/open the thumbnail images though - some of the little thumbnails do not do the projects justice. Open them and read about them...you'll be glad you did.

http://www.makingmemories.com/mmidol/index.cfm

How appropriate...

2007-03-29T12:58:00.000-05:00

I just got the latest issue of Simple Scrapbooks in the mail and saw a great quote on the last page...

"When you're trying to stay creative , too many rules can drive you loopy. Improvise. Let loose! Because, after all, you can't amaze the world until you first surprise yourself." ~Kermit the Frog

Now - there is really only one rule to this next MM Idol challenge, so that part doesn't apply...but I love the last part of this quote. Thanks Kermit! (it's not easy being green!)

Unbelievable!!!

2007-03-28T07:26:00.000-05:00

I am just thrilled to have made the Top 10 in the MM Idol competition! How exciting is this?! Thanks again - SO MUCH - to those of you that are voting. And especially to those that believe I am deserving of your vote. This is an incredible experience and one that will surely make me a better scrapbooker/artist/designer. The challenges continue to make me think outside the box. It's a good thing! And once again, I am beside myself to have made the cut. I am certain my neighbors heard me scream yesterday when I pulled up the voting results. But as much as I wanna spend the day celebrating, I've got to put on my thinking cap and start the brainstorming. Honestly, I am still unpacking from my weekend retreat last weekend...but everytime I took something out of my bag, I'd try to think how I could use it in this next round. I did manage to jot down some ideas in my journal, but I can't say that anything has come from them yet. They are just that...ideas. Sometimes I get a creative spark from the most random ideas that I've written down. So you never know...it's good just to get any idea at all down on paper. Free the mind. I may try to get out of the house today just to help me relax and possibly get some inspiration.

So this retreat I went on last weekend...it was so much fun. I did not do my usual socializing, but ever since I've been creating for this competition - I've been on a MISSION! So I kept to myself a bit so I could think a little clearer. When I start goofing around and singing and eating (my usual crop behavior) I don't get much accomplished. LOL...I know lots of you scrappers can relate. Here are some pictures from my weekend at the Scrapbook House.

I also wanted to remind you that Making Memories is celebrating their 1st year blogging with prizes today. A prize every hour! Check it out! http://www.makingmemories.typepad.com/

Get the party started!!

2007-03-26T09:28:00.000-05:00

It's time to narrow the field down to the top 10 in the MM Idol contest. This weeks challenge was to create 3 items for a themed party. Any theme, any item. I created my projects away from home (that's hard when you're not surrounded by the comforts of your scrap room!). I chose to do a Garden Party. My projects included an invitation, a Menu Board (that would be put at each table with flowers etc.) and party favor baskets made out of Making Memories metal frames. I painted the frames green, then added scalloped chipboard frames that I painted white and glittered. I added a monogram in the center of each frame and then put mini brads in the holes around each frame. The frames are connected with a pretty, white sheer ribbon. The handle was made by adhering a Making Memories decorative metal strip to a pretty piece of lace trim, then bending the metal strip into a handle shape and adhering to the frame basket. I hope you enjoy my project. I can totally see a springtime garden party in a gazebo with white tablecloths and some nice music playing. It all looks so nice in my head! lol Enough of my daydreaming...go look at the projects and place your vote!

http://www.makingmemories.com/mmidol/index.cfm If you are having problems placing your vote - keep trying. Sometimes the high volume of traffic on the site causes some temporary problems, but don't give up...try again later! Voting will be open until Tuesday at 4pm MT.

By the way...do you see the 2 ladybugs on my projects? I thought that was a cute little touch considering the theme.

Love the zoo!

2007-03-21T20:27:00.000-05:00

The girls and I went to the Lowry Park Zoo today and had a blast! I am totally exhausted though. It was a gorgeous day - about 82 degrees. Both of the girls tripped and fell at least once today (not a surprise) and Lindsay got herself good and was bleeding all over the place. Luckily, at the camel ride there was a lady that was much more prepared than I (she was still carrying a diaper bag) and gave us an alcohol wipe and bandaid. Lindsay did NOT like that alcohol wipe but a mom's gotta do what a mom's gotta do. You know, I used to be prepared for anything. When I carried a diaper bag and pushed a stroller it was so much easier to pack anything and everything you might need. Gone are those days...

Anyway ~ I haven't resized the pics of the animals yet - but I did manage to get a few pics off my camera of the highlights of the day. We fed the giraffes crackers, rode the camels...and the girls cooled off in the water fountain thingie in the kids park. You can click on the pics for a better look.

eeeww! did you see the tongue on that giraffe? Jessica was sticking her tongue out all afternoon after that, trying to imitate the giraffe. lol

This is Jess before the water shot up in her face...

and this is after...

Party Time! I made MM Idol Top 15!!!

2007-03-20T22:33:00.000-05:00

So excited to share that I made the Top 15 in the MM Idol contest! I am just thrilled to be able to keep creating in this contest. I must say - the creative prompts have pushed me and have really been good for me. I love to create based on a challenge! Any-hoo...in case I haven't said it enough...thank you to the voters out there. Thank you, thank you, thank you. (*smile*) So on to the next challenge. Check back next Monday to see what I've created...check out the MM Idol blog and see the other 14 entries...and vote again for your fave!

This week is spring break for Lindsay. Sad to say I had some stuff on the agenda today so I wasn't able to take the girls out to do anything special. Well, aside from a Happy Meal. So tomorrow I may try to take them somewhere special. The zoo maybe. Or the aquarium. Either would be fun to do. I guess I'll play it by ear and see what happens. I have another project finished that I'll be posting in the next day or two. Check back!

MM Idol Challenge #3 - using ONLY the fundamentals

2007-03-19T09:02:00.000-05:00

This was a harder challenge for me because I love using paint, ink, stamps, bling... but we were told to use ONLY the fundamental supplies. They narrowed it down for us and said they would like to see layouts or projects using only these items:

paper

photos

brads/eyelets

ribbon

buttons

stickers

ruh-roh....no chipboard? but I looooove chipboard! I finally started feeling better last Friday so after having this vision in my head all week while I was laying on the couch - I got started on my project. I finished it on Saturday and just wasn't happy with it. I kept trying to think of something else to do - which is hard considering I didn't have a backup plan - I had been thinking about that concept all week and just couldn't break out of that thought process for some reason. Sunday after lunch I went to a wedding reception. I don't know, maybe it was getting out in the sunshine and taking a little drive. But somehow, when I got home and was able to get started again (at 4:30!) it all started coming together. whew! I love how it turned out...but sadly the pictures don't do it justice. I started taking photos last night fairly late - so I didn't have good lighting. Anyway - here's the finished project. The first photo I used a flash. The second photo I did not use the flash to show off the glow of the lamp through the handcut lampshade.

Don't forget to go check out everyone's entry and place your vote!! Everything should be up on the MM Idol site soon (9am MST).

http://www.makingmemories.typepad.com/mmidol/

Perspective

2007-03-16T07:36:00.000-05:00

I don't even know where to start here. I've been laying on this couch...this being my 5th day...suffering (if you will) with flu symptoms. Fever, chills, aches and the worst case of burning eyes from this cold I have on top of the flu. Complaining, feeling sorry for myself. No more I tell you. You know why? Because I just got a little taste of perspective.

I just got an email from my brother giving us an update on one of his friends (who I believe is about to turn 42 on April 9th) and his bout with cancer (melanoma). He has multiple tumors - some even in the brain. Several weeks ago, his wife emailed my brother the news that the doctors gave him 2 months to live and were trying to make him more comfortable etc. before his death. In today's email, Joni (the wife) was telling of a party they were planning both for her kids' (who celebrate birthdays in Feb and March) and a Celebration of Life party for her husband Tom. At this party, people will be taping their goodbye messages to this man who is staring death in the face.

I bawled my eyes out reading the email from my brother. How heart wrenching. This family is going through so much. How do children - ages 5 and 9 - come to grips with saying goodbye forever to their own father? The wife has strength beyond comprehension. To be planning a party and at the same time wondering if her husband will live another day. I just cannot even fathom the pain she is going through. I do know they are believers. They have God to comfort them. They know their goodbyes are not...forever. They'll meet again.

God bless this family. For those of you reading this that pray...please pray for continued strength and comfort for Tom, Joni and their family. Pray that this family will have peace in their hearts. Thank you.

A new life...

2007-03-14T20:33:00.000-05:00

I have become a Great Aunt today....AGAIN! :)

Congratulations to my nephew Jeremy and his wife Amanda on the birth of their 2nd child...a beautiful daughter named Gracie Isabella. I've heard she has even more hair than her brother did...which just couldn't be because he had more hair than any baby EVER. I cannot WAIT to see a picture of this little sweetie!

Congrats again...sending you love from FL my sweet little niece!

...and now, back to my fever and burning eyeballs...already in progress. (I know - not a good mental picture!) I think I did too much today and my body is reverting back to being sick. BOO!!!

Happy happy joy joy!

2007-03-13T22:13:00.000-05:00

I made the cut for the Making Memories Idol Top 25! I am elated! :)

Click here to see the list!

Thank you again to those that believed I was deserving of your vote. I truly appreciate that you took time out of your day to go look at all the entries and place your vote (that took me forever because there was soooo much great stuff to look at!) . Everyone poured a lot of heart and soul into their projects and it shows. The group has been very supportive and friendly to each other which is such a bonus. I am getting to know some great (and VERY talented) ladies that I otherwise may not have had the pleasure to meet. Amazing that a group of competitors can actually form a friendship of sorts. This is a great industry - but I've also been exposed to the 'other side' where sometimes it's not so nice. I am so grateful to be in this position with such great people. An experience I won't soon forget...that's for sure! :)

Now - on to the next challenge. Remember to check back in next Monday to see the latest and greatest!

MM Idol Challenge #2 - Kids Corner

2007-03-12T11:33:00.000-05:00

Here is my entry for this 2nd challenge. Hope you like it! :)

Don't forget to vote after looking at all the other entries! http://www.makingmemories.typepad.com/mmidol/

Croppin' with my Scrapyard girls!

2007-03-11T21:55:00.000-05:00

What a great weekend. Aside from the fact that I've been tending to the 2 sick children in my house. Hubby let me out of the house for the entire day on Saturday. I left the house just after 8am and didn't get home until 10pm. What a guy. I went to a crop with my Scrapyard girls. One of the members of our group was organizing a crop to benefit the school her kids go to. I thought it was a fabulous crop - I had such a great time cropping with my friends and making new friends. There were a few gals in our group that I met for the first time. Hi Laurel, Danielle and Tracy! Fun times.

I uploaded my project for the next round of MM Idol. I am excited to get online tomorrow to see all the amazing projects. Tomorrow - Monday - is another voting day, so be sure you go here: http://www.makingmemories.typepad.com/mmidol/ and look to the left for the link to VOTE NOW. Look over the 30 incredible projects and place your vote. :)

You are my icing...

2007-03-09T09:40:00.000-05:00

You'll have to read my entire post to see what I mean by the title of this post. haha I never posted my All About Me entry for MM Idol...so even though lots of you have seen it from checking out the entries at the MM Idol site, I thought I'd post it here as well. If you look closely below, you'll see that the bottom right corner is completely rounded. The picture was taken with a corkboard as the backdrop. I did this because when I tried scanning it - you couldn't tell that the corner was rounded...it just looked like it had a white corner. That kind of defeated my purpose. Part of our instructions were to do something innovative. I've seen lots of people use a corner rounder to just barely round the corners of their layouts - but this is actually quite a big chunk rounded off the bottom. Then, using my craft knife I hand cut the flowers out of some gorgeous American Crafts paper. I let part of the flower hang off the rounded corner. Rounded corner. LOL...I can't think of another way to explain it. Also - all the hand cut florals/vines are on 3dimensional glue squares. You can't tell that very well from the photos.

Looking at this layout in real life, the elements really pop off the page. It's really beautiful, if I do say so myself. If you know me personally, you know that although I do show my excitement about things...I'm not one to brag or anything. Not that I'm doing that now, but I must say...I was really proud of my layout. I love the color combination. I love the journaling strips. I love the hand cut floral elements. I love the rounded corner! I love the title. I love the offset pink chipboard brackets. I love the rhinestones. It's so nice to enjoy your own work, isn't it? I don't have a design background or anything - and my style isn't for everyone. That's ok though. I create the way I want to create. However, if other people enjoy looking at or are inspired in any way from my projects then that's just the icing on the cake. :) So for those of you that are enjoying my layouts - you are my icing! I love the icing! :)
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A little note on the homefront...I now have 2 sick kiddos. After missing school on Monday and Tuesday, Lindsay went to school on Wednesday and spent some time in the nurses office. She's been home ever since. Now today, Jessica has a 104 degree temperature. Lucky for me - she doesn't mind the taste of the medicine. She's a trooper. But all these sickies to tends to mean very little time in the scraproom. I need to get my entry for the next round of MM Idol done. I have a crop I'm going to tomorrow from 9am - 9pm...but strangely, those are usually not very condusive to getting things done. Not for me anyway...I am a socializer. heehee I do have some ideas and have started on one of them. It is turning out really cute! My girls are itchin' to get their hands on it! They haven't been able to help me with it at all, but they could if they weren't sick. When I showed them what I was doing - their eyes lit up and their jaws dropped. I got to hear the sweet sound of them ooohing and aaahhhhhing over it. They started fighting over which one was theirs. They never fail to put a big old smile on my face. They are so sweet. This project will be one that they will reap the benefits of for years to come. They are already talking about what they want to make to go with it.

So that's just a little teaser about our next assignment. You are going to love looking through the entries on Monday. I'm not sure if the direction I'm going with the challenge is where the others will go with it. I'm curious to see how the other 29 will interpret the instructions Making Memories gave us. That is what makes these things so fun...everyone has such a different take on the directions.

Before I am once again beckoned with a drawn out "mooooommmm" from one of the sickies...I want to wish Judy, my mother in law, a very happy birthday. It was yesterday, but I spent the day yesterday at my friends house watching her 3 kids and my 2 kids and didn't get home until 10pm. I feel terrible that I didn't get this posted yesterday! Sorry Judy - I was thinking about you though!

Also, a huge congratulations to my friend Cheryl. She got married yesterday to her high school sweetheart. They had both gone separate ways after high school but as fate would have it - they ended up back together and I know they will be so happy together. Congratulations my friend!! You deserve all the happiness in the world!

A big, HUGE thank you!

2007-03-06T21:02:00.000-05:00

Making Memories posted the 30 contestants that have advanced to the next round of MM Idol and guess who made the cut? Little 'ol me! I am so thrilled - words cannot describe! So a big, HUGE, hearty thank you to those of you that voted for me. I certainly wouldn't have made the Top 30 without you! Now...just picture me sitting here on the couch watching American Idol...grinning from ear to ear. Our next challenge is going to be fun! I have no clue where I'm going with it yet - but be sure to check out the Making Memories Idol Blog next Monday to check out the entries and once again...vote for your favorite!