The Pursuit of Scrappyness

Published!!

2011-12-15T18:48:00.000-03:30

I can finally say that I have been published! It's kinda exciting :-)

Canadian Scrapbooker picked up this layout of mine, titled "Walking in a Winter Wonderland". It's included in their Winter 2011 Issue.

I used papers by Fancy Pants -- LOVE the Hot Chocolate line! -- and my lettering is from Cosmo Cricket and Basic Grey.

Thanks for looking!

Missing my Dad

2011-10-16T21:09:00.000-02:30

Today is 13 yrs since my Dad was taken from us in a vehicle accident. I miss him always, but especially at this time of year I miss him more.

I so wish my kids had the chance to know him better. My daughter was only 2 when he passed, and my youngest son almost a year old. They only know him through stories we tell. I don't have any pics of my second son with my Dad, and only a handful with my oldest son, maybe one each for the other two children...... sad, hey? Just makes me realize that I should be snapping pics all the time! You never know when our loved ones will be taken from us.

My Dad was an amazing man who taught me so much! He always encouraged a love of learning -- he was learning all the time, studying to get his electrical license when he was still a young teen. He actually wired the first house in the town he grew up in, at the age of 15! He was also a wonderful cabinet-maker and a house builder..... and a plumber. A jack-of-all-trades, I guess :-) He taught me to try my best at whatever interested me. He showed me the value of hard work and taking pride in your work. He loved his wife, his children and he absolutely LOVED to spoil his grandchildren with candy treats, and lots of hugs and kisses :-)

Here he is at what he truly enjoyed -- installing a set of cabinets. This photo was taken only a few days before the accident.

Some days I can recall vividly when and how I learned of his death. I re-live the days and events of those first few days leading up to his funeral, and I remember the actual funeral service. Everything seems so recent. Then there are days when it seems to be an eternity since he was taken from us. Life changed so drastically and will never be the same for our family.

I so love this poem written by my uncle and read at the funeral. He has a great way with words, I think.

The Cabinetmaker
By Dale Penney

Through the open shop door, you can see him,
In an amber haze of oak dust;
Amid whirling saws and routers-
The cabinetmaker...
Surrounded by the tools of his trade
And a growing stack of rails and stiles
And raised panels.
The re-shaped oak, though bread and butter,
Is, to him the fruit of labor's love;
Right now, to another's eye, just bits and pieces,
But in his eye, a finished work of art.
That half-smile on his face gives lie
That this is work;
That's contentment - his labor also pleasure;
And satisfaction - in a job well started,
Assured of an end result that meets the designer's standard.

....and, now....
The tools lie idle and silent..
The dust has settled...
The cabinetmaker absent from his shop.
His own designer, it appears,
Is satisfied with this project, and has called him home.

Now, here he lies in a finely crafted coffin,
Resting on silk and his favorite wood;
Surrounded by his wife, his children, and theirs;
Quite unprepared to see the once busy hands so still.
There's grief here, and sorrow;
But, that half-smile on his face gives lie
That this is the end.
That's contentment - his soul at rest;
And satisfaction - his children, and theirs, another job well-started,
And assured of an end result that meets the Designer's standard.

"Be Yourself"

2011-10-05T21:47:00.000-02:30

Here's my layout for the latest ScrapFIT challenge

Check the blog to find out the challenge, and see what the rest of the DT created. Add your layout and you could win this amazing kit from The Paper Bakery

Also, if you notice, I used the kit from Boys Rule -- number 4 from this kit!

U Did It!

2011-10-01T14:03:00.001-02:30

Back again with another couple of layouts using the Boys Rule kit! Let me tell you, this kit is wonderful! I encourage you to check the blog and grab a kit for yourself -- especially if you have boys :-)

I used Luke's graduation photos for this double layout.

If you read about my challenge to meself (right here) to create 8 layouts with this kit, these are the 2nd and 3rd layouts

Thanks for looking!

Football Online Crop at the Sisterhood

2011-09-27T21:53:00.000-02:30

Just reminding you of an online crop at the Sisterhood of Scrap. We're having fun with FOOTBALL, even though there are many of us who can't stand the game, and know very little about it! LOL Myself included :-)

Here are some of the challenges posted:

RUNNING BACK -- I want to see some type of "running" stitch on your layout. Can be real or faux

GRIDIRON -- For this challenge it is only fitting to use a "grid" of some sort on your playing field!

PIGSKIN -- For this challenge, I want to see a layout using Kraft/brown cardstock as your background paper PLUS you must show some sort of lacing technique.

TACKLE -- Let's see some "piling on" with this challenge. Layer your paper, or layer embellishments.

Check the forum for more challenges, games, and see the awesome prizes that are up for grabs! You have until midnight, Oct. 2nd to upload your projects.

NEW Scrapbook Kit club!

2011-09-27T21:44:00.001-02:30

I was lucky enough to receive a kit from this new Scrapbook Kit club called Boys Rule. For anyone who has even been a kit subscriber of other kit clubs, you've probably noticed that they are often geared towards girls :-) Not this kit!

I received in my Big Boy kit:
Lucky 7 Factory Vintage Perfume double sided papers as follows
2- Star Dust
2- Fragile
2- Crazy Crayon
2- Photo shoot
2- Eco dress up
2- Eye exam
Basic Grey Oxford Element sticker sheet
Maya Road Wood Alterable Buttons
American Crafts Confetti Serenade puffy chestnut alpha
Creative Imaginations off Road Epoxy Stickers
Creative Imaginations fishing epoxy stickers
Webster’s Pages Ladies and Gents buttons and twine
Hero Arts Twine – 2 feet
Wooden Stars – 1 cut out and 2 solid
Crafters Workshop 6x6 template –mini bricks
Adirondack Paint dabber - espresso

I am challenging myself to creat EIGHT layouts with this kit, plus an assortment of cards. Think I can do it?! Check back over the next couple of weeks to see if I can meet my challenge.

Here's my first layout:

Don't forget to check out the Boys Rule blog! Kits are not too expensive (around the $30 range) and I know you'll be pleased with the wonderful selection of products!

Reveal AND a blog hop!

2011-09-15T20:34:00.001-02:30

Welcome to the ScrapFIT & Sketchy Thursday Blog Hop! We have joined up with Sketch Thursday this week to offer you a really tough workout! You will need to use this sketch

from Sketchy Thursday and combined it with our Workout #52 - F is for Friendship -Friends are the family members we pick out by hand. Lets dedicated this weeks layout to a special friend(s).

Here's my layout:

Since this is a special joint workout there are a few prizes up for grabs!

You can win this Halloween kit from our ScrapFIT sponsor Paper Issues by linking your layout to the Mr Linky on the ScrapFIT blog

Be sure to visit all of the FITgirls blogs and comment on their Workout because one lucky random winner that leaves on comment on every FITgirls blog will be get this prize kit! You can get to each girls blog by clicking on their photo at ScrapFIT.

Once you do that be sure to head on over to Sketchy Thursday for a chance at winning a prize from their sponsor and another chance at a prize from commenting on the Design Team blogs!

This workout will end on Wednesday 9/21 an the winners will be announced on Thursday 9/22. We hope you will play along and remember you still have until the end of the month to play along with Workout #51.

2011-08-16T12:01:00.000-02:30

Time for the mid-month reveal at ScrapFIT!

The challenge was:

Workout #50- Be Inspired By A Book!

I love books, especially kids books! They are great for little minds and they can also be great to spark your crafty creativity! Use the book cover below to inspire your next layout! Use the design of the cover, the color or the vintage vibe – be creative!

Check the ScrapFIT blog to see the book cover.

Here's my layout. I just love this pic of Devin helping Benjamin with his necktie. Benjamin was heading off to cadet camp for 2 weeks -- certainly an adventure!

ScrapFIT has a wonderful sponsor lined up this month! Check out Precious Paper!

"Tessa creates new a 'sampler' of product each month! Each sampler has is own unique flower, ribbon and colors! For this workout she offering one lucky winner this sampler!"

I hope you'll check the blog and see what the other FITgirls have created.... and be sure to enter your project before August 31st, for a chance to win the sponsored prize!

First workout at ScrapFIT!

2011-08-02T06:50:00.000-02:30

So excited to be part of this first reveal at ScrapFIT! The challengewas to "put a banner on it".

This was my take on the challenge. The photos were a bit dark, but I really wanted to use them; took these last summer when our youngest went off to Air Cadet Camp for the first time.

ScrapFIT has a wonderful sponsor lined up this month! Check out Precious Paper!

"Tessa creates new a 'sampler' of product each month! Each sampler has is own unique flower, ribbon and colors! For this workout she offering one lucky winner this sampler!"

I hope you'll check the blog and see what the other KITgirls have created.... and be sure to enter your project before August 31st, for a chance to win the sponsored prize!

One-Hour Scrap!

2011-07-12T21:57:00.000-02:30

We have a ton of fun at Sisterhood of Scrap -- especially when Helen challenges us with a one-hour scrap! You should join us sometime! Once you try one, you're hooked :-)

This month we were given a PageMaps sketch:

I always change things up a bit. Here's my layout:

Thanks for looking!

Announcing.........

2011-07-09T19:53:00.000-02:30

So excited to have made the team at ScrapFIT!

ScrapFIT has two workouts (challenges) per month, with awesome sponsored prizes! We are all about keeping you actively scrappin'!

Check our "Workout Challenges" on the 1st and 15th of each month and you will have until the last day of each month to add your layout. Complete both challenges and double your chances of winning!

Join in and stay scrappy active with us!

a few cards

2011-06-23T10:45:00.000-02:30

Just wanted to share a few of my recent cards. I've been making more lately -- I love that I can use up little bits and pieces of my scrap supplies :-)

SCRAPFIT challenges

2011-06-16T19:56:00.000-02:30

Thought I'd try a couple of these challenges this month :-) They have some wonderful sponsors! Scrapbook Circle is donating a kit, and there's also a digital kit from Chelle's Creations.

This layout is for Workout #45 -- use a household item on your layout. I used a medicine cup to stamp circles on my page.

Workout #46 has to do with school supplies/theme. This layout is about my son's fascination with numbers! I used a transparency, in which I copied some of my son's math problems.

Thanks for looking!

You are invited....

2011-04-07T22:13:00.001-02:30

to Sisterhood of Scrap's FOURTH Birthday Party! Grab a friend and come join us for a week-long event. Lots of fun challenges, games and sur-PRIZES!

The fun is starting tomorrow morning (April 8th). Hope to see you there!

Recent layouts

2011-04-07T22:11:00.001-02:30

Just wanted to share a few of my recent layouts with you :-) ENJOY!

I used Bo Bunny Timepiece for this one.

Used my Scrapbook Heaven April ELITE kit:

LOVE this photo of my great-grandmother and her sisters -- even though the photo is over-exposed. Their hair and dresses look so nice! Used Bo Bunny Timepiece.

October Afternoon is so fun!

This was for a challenge to use the word "seriously" in a title :-)

I created this layout in less than one hour! Helen hosted March 1-hr crop on Sisterhood of Scrap. This layout was inspired by her sketch.

my weekend

2011-03-21T13:11:00.004-02:30

I had a productive weekend scrappy-wise :-)

This was based on a PageMaps sketch, which I rotated. Pictures of my daughter at 1 yr old, picking at my sister's purse :-) I used some old paper on this one -- the striped paper is Arctic Frog (remember them?) and the gingham is some old $ store paper. Newer papers are Bo Bunny (the turquoise strip) and Belle BLVD (the flowers).

I just LOVE this "Love Me Do" line of papers from "My Mind's Eye" and I have a bunch of layouts done with it. I know this is an older line, but I picked up some extra sheets from Lovebug Scrapbooking just last month. These are just some random pictures of Luke when he was 8-9 months old.

Another layout with the "Love Me Do" line. Notice the little tag that says Love Me? I cut that from the strip of patterned paper on the bottom of these 12x12 sheets. Gotta use up every bit of paper :-) It also fit with Jules' challenge on Scrapbook Heaven. Did you know there's a GOING GREEN crop happening there all this month?

Here are a couple of birthday cards. I must say I'm kinda enjoying card-making more than ever lately! These are pretty simple looking.

Artist Trading Cards

2011-03-18T10:30:00.004-02:30

Have you ever made artist trading cards (ATCs)? I didn't, until the girls at Sisterhood of Scrap challenged me to! And, if you know me -- I love a challenge :-)

Recently, I've been introduced to "arch" cards -- basically they are like regular ATCs but are bigger (2.5x4) and are arch-shaped.

I'm participating in an Arch Swap on Sisterhood of Scrap. I needed to make 3 cards. Here they are!

I used my March Petite Kit (plus the Add-On kit) from Scrapbook Heaven for these projects.

Thanks for looking!

The Sisters are having a birthday

2011-03-16T20:03:00.000-02:30

...... and you are all invited!!

That’s right, the Sisterhood of Scrap turns 4 in April and we would like to invite you to join in on our Birthday Bash week April 8th – 15th.

We will be posting challenges and games all week for your chance to win prizes from our generous sponsors.

So mark your calendars, grab some cake, and come and join in on the fun!!

See you at Sisterhood of Scrap on April 8th!!

March Holiday Madness

2011-03-01T10:33:00.003-03:30

Join us at Sisterhood of Scrap for some wild holiday challenges :-) Did you know that March is "National Noodle Month"? LOL! For a complete list of holidays, check HERE

The DT will be posting several challenges today, so be sure and check back. You'll have until the 14th of March to complete and post your projects.

Bo Bunny Contest

2011-02-18T12:41:00.003-03:30

I created this layout for a challenge on the Bo Bunny blog. My hubby is such a big kid :-)

Lip Balm Valentine Holder

2011-02-05T20:35:00.004-03:30

Worked on this little tutorial today and wanted to share with you all!

You'll need a small piece of cardstock, some patterned paper, 2 6-inch pieces of ribbon and other embellishments as desired.

Step 1: Cut a piece of cardstock 3 1/2 X 5 3/4 inches
Score at 2 1/2 inces and 3 1/4 inches. If you don't have a Scor-Pal, you can use your cutter and bone folder/other tool as shown.

Step 2: This is what it should look like

Step 3: Measure down 1 1/2 inches from the top, and also 1 1/2 inches from the bottom. Using a blade, cut two 1 1/2 inch slits, making sure the cuts start at the right edge of the fold line and extend to the left. Hope this makes sense!

Step 4: Fold this piece forward. You'll notice that the slits run totally through the back fold and extends about another 3/4 inch.

Step 5: Measure up from the bottom 1/2 inch. Cut 2 more slits here, for the chapstick to rest on. This will be a 1-inch cut.

Step 6: This is what it will look like when closed.

Step 7: Adhere one strip of ribbon on the center of the back cardstock.

Step 8: Spread glue (or other adhesive) on the outside of the cardstock, front and back. Don't add it on the folded strips. Also, adhere the second piece of ribbon to the front (I didn't get a picture of this)

Step 9: Cut a piece of patterned paper 3 1/4 X 5 1/2 inches. Score at 2 1/4 and 3 inches (as you did with the cardstock).
Adhere to cardstock to cover the holes on the back.

Step 10: Decorate the inside , if desired.

Step 11: Embellish the front.

Sisterhood of Scrap!

2010-12-29T15:51:00.001-03:30

Come on over and join me and the girls at Sisterhood of Scrap ! This is a great place to hang out, meet other like-minded crafters, and have a good time!!

January happenings at SOS:

*We are going to be having a photo challenge by our esteemed photographer Sonya!!
*Maggi is going to present a PhotoShop Elements (PSE) Challenge along with some tutorials!!
*Colleen, our culinary queen, is going to host a Recipe Challenge of sorts!!
*We are going to be presenting a "Sister Blog" of the month!! Not telling you who the first one will be 'cause I don't know!
*We are going to be having a one-hour crop on January 23d hosted by Helen!
*We are going to be holding a "January White Sale" Contest (that will be flipping amazing!) with a prize to be won.
*And there will be a few other things too, but I can't tell you yet...

Come on over and join in!! Looking forward to seeing you over there soon!!

Advent calendar

2010-12-01T18:12:00.003-03:30

I am re-posting a project I did in 2008. It's an advent wreath. I had a friend ask about it today, so I thought posting it here would help her see how it's done.

It's not that difficult to make, and like all advent calendars -- lots of fun for kiddies to open each day :-)

Ok, you'll need some paper towel rolls, a sheet of 12x12 cardboard, paint (if desired), tissue paper, strong glue, patterned paper and some number stickers.

Take a 12x12 circle of cardboard. I painted mine brown. I also cut out the center of the big circle, but filled it in again with some pp.

The "holders" are paper towel rolls cut into pieces. You can cut them 1-inch high, but mine were 1 1/2 because I had 4 treats to fit in each.

We painted the inside of the rolls and cut 1x6 inch strips for the outside. Glued them down with some tacky glue and let them dry well before I added treats.

The tops are made from tissue paper. I just cut some freehand circles, added some tacky glue around the edge of the rolls and pressed the tissue paper over the top. I actually had to add more glue and another layer of tissue paper as I could see through them.

I added numbers using my Cuttlebug dies and punched 2 holes to add some ribbon for hanging. Wait until the glue sets before hanging.

Blog hop for November!

2010-11-27T07:41:00.004-03:30

Our theme for November is CHRISTMAS!!

I wanted so share some of my cards with you. I have not done much card-making at all, but this month I decided to try my hand at some. Who knows, I MAY even get these Christmas cards out in the mail this year! LOL!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This blog hop will run from today, November 27th until November 29th.
We will be drawing for winners on November 30th on the Lovebug Scrapbooking blog.

You're at the end of the hop. Head back to Lovebug Scrapbooking!!

Winner ......

2010-10-27T20:27:00.002-02:30

of the scrapbook magazine (Lovebug's blog hop) is LINDY!

Congrats!!! Email me at mommarobinATgmailDOTcom with your mailing address.

INSPIRE US!! Blog Hop at Lovebug Scrapbooking!

2010-10-23T07:00:00.001-02:30

Welcome to Lovebug Scrapbooking's "INSPIRE US!" blog hop!! Our blog hops NORMALLY take place on the last Saturday of every month. This month we decided to go a week earlier, so you could get some Halloween inspiration before the holiday :-) Thanks so much for joining us!

If you just happened by this blog and didn't realize a blog hop was taking place, please go back to Lovebug Scrapbooking and start the Hop. You won't want to miss all the inspiration from our members....... or the prizes :-)

Our theme for this month is HALLOWEEN.

As a family, we don't celebrate Halloween, but I had a friend ask me to make some treat bags for her. These little bags take little time to make, and I must say, with the new Bo Bunny
"Whoo-Ligans Monsters" paper, they look kinda cute :-)

Very easy to make! I picked up a package of small paper bags at Wal-Mart. On this sheet of pp, there are 12 little "monsters" so you can finish 12 treat bags. I also used some raffia-type ribbon and some orange ribbon. Add in a couple of buttons and you're done!

I matted the monster card on some orange paper first, and distressed and inked the edges.

Here's the finished product!

This blog hop will run from today, October 23rd until October 25th. We will be drawing for a winner on October 26th on the Lovebug blog.

In addition, I will be drawing for a copy of Scrapbooking & Beyond - Fall 2010 issue -- from all the comments on my blog :-)

Follow along in our blog hop! Your next stop is Tanya S.

I was TAGGED :-)

2010-10-22T20:43:00.002-02:30

Figured I should answer the questions -- hey, at least it's a POST on my neglected blog. LOL!

Here are 8 question posed by Shannon at Mom Loves Books.

1. Toddlers or Teens? Which is harder and why? I actually enjoyed the toddler stage and would go through it again. Not too sure about the teens :-) As of November, I will have four teenagers. ULP! It's tough trying to make sure that they make the right decisions. You have to give up control and that's probably what I find difficult.

2. What is your favourite Christmas tradition? I love choosing a novel and spending time each evening reading to my children. After reading, we light the candles and listen to Christmas music. LOVE it! Doesn't happen every evening (unlike when they were younger) but often enough that we all still enjoy it.

3. What do you do (if anything) for regular physical exercise? I walk every morning, with some running thrown in there. Usually it's 1.5 km walk and 3km run.

4. Country/Traditional/Eclectic or Modern – which is YOUR home decorating style? I think I am leaning to more of a modern look, with the darker colored walls and dark furniture.

5. Baths or Showers? Which do you prefer and why? LONG, HOT baths :-) I can read while in tub, and I get some quiet time.

6. Have you ever lived abroad? Where and for how long? No, we lived in Ontario for a while a couple of months before Luke was born. Came back to Newfoundland when he was 8 months old.

7. What is your favourite season and why? I love Summer, because there's so much to do -- provided the weather in NL is good (which it wasn't this summer). Next to that, I really enjoy Autumn -- love the colors, the fresh air.

8. Are your parents still alive? If not, what do you miss most about them and if yes, have you told them today that you love them? My Mom is still alive. Just spoke to her a few minutes ago by phone. Told her I loved her :-) My Dad was killed in a car accident 12 years ago (Oct 16th). I wish I could tell him I love him -- sure do miss him!

Sisterhood of Scrap PAJAMA Party crop!

2010-10-13T17:56:00.003-02:30

You haven't been to a Pajama Party that's been as FUN as this one promises to be :-) Colleen and Helen have been BUSY preparing for this weekend's festivities. Come in your pajamas -- don't forget to post a pic! LOL!

We're scrappin', sharing techniques, watching a movie, and having a ton of fun! We're finishing up the crop with our One-Hour challenge -- you don't wanna miss this one! Lots of prizes to be won!

Join us in the forum, and bring along a friend!

Starts Friday, October 15th at 3pm EST and will end Saturday October 16th at 10pm EST.

Holiday Sketch Challenge CROP!!

2010-10-13T17:54:00.000-02:30

This is a special time of year, when the colors change, festive tables are set, scary lil' people are all dressed-up, memorable moments are made! Scrapbook Heaven would like to invite you to our "HOLIDAY SKETCH CHALLENGE CROP". Your chance to make those holiday photos sparkle and take center stage using the amazing sketches provided by our talented DT.

Our crop starts at 10am EST on Saturday, Oct. 16th.
http://www.scrapbookheavenga.com/

Layouts due Oct. 22nd with a winner announced on our LIVE show on Oct. 24th.

SEE YOU THERE!

World Card Making Day

2010-10-02T11:07:00.001-02:30

Today is World Card Making Day :-) Hope you're able to spend some time creating!

I'm taking part in a couple of online crops this weekend.

Lovebug Scrapbooking Day
Sisterhood of Scrap

Thanksgiving

2010-09-25T07:08:00.000-02:30

Welcome to Lovebug Scrapbooking's "INSPIRE US!" blog hop!! Our blog hops
take place on the last Saturday of every month. Thanks so much for joining
us!

If you just happened by this blog and didn't realize a blog hop was taking
place, please go back to Lovebug Scrapbooking and start the Hop. You won't
want to miss all the inspiration from our members :-)

Our theme for September is "THANKSGIVING".

I love Thanksgiving :-) We normally spend the day together as a family. We cook a big turkey dinner. Sometimes we'll go on a hike, to get out and enjoy the nice fall weather.

Today I thought I'd share some Thanksgiving quotes -- these are so inspiring and would be great on a scrapbook layout or card.

~ Remember God's bounty in the year. String the pearls of His favor. Hide the dark parts, except so far as they are breaking out in light! Give this one day to thanks, to joy, to gratitude! Henry Ward Beecher

~ Thanksgiving, after all, is a word of action. W.J. Cameron

~ For flowers that bloom about our feet;
For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet;
For song of bird, and hum of bee;
For all things fair we hear or see,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee!
Ralph Waldo Emerson

~ A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all the other virtues. Cicero

~ Nothing is more honorable than a grateful heart. Seneca

~ We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures. Thornton Wilder

~ So once in every year we throng
Upon a day apart,
To praise the Lord with feast and song
In thankfulness of heart.
Arthur Guiterman

~ Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of our thanksgiving. W.T. Purkiser

~ If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, "thank you," that would suffice. Meister Eckhart

This blog hop will run from today, September 25th until Tuesday, September 28th. We will be drawing for winners on September 29th on the Lovebug blog.

Now, HOP over to Tania's blog!

May your stuffing be tasty
May your turkey plump,
May your potatoes and gravy
Have nary a lump.
May your yams be delicious
And your pies take the prize,
And may your Thanksgiving dinner
Stay off your thighs!
~Author Unknown

Back to School

2010-08-28T08:33:00.000-02:30

Welcome to Lovebug Scrapbooking's "INSPIRE US!" blog hop!! Our blog hops
take place on the last Saturday of every month. Thanks so much for joining
us!

If you just happened by this blog and didn't realize a blog hop was taking
place, please go back to Lovebug Scrapbooking and start the Hop. You won't
want to miss all the inspiration from our members....... or the prizes :-)

Our theme for August is "BACK TO SCHOOL".

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

For my project I made a thank-you card for a teacher. I like how the apple turned out :-) I just tore 3 pieces of red cardstock, kinda in the shape of an apple, and added a couple of torn leaves.

My youngest son thinks the "TU" should have been "TY" but ty doesn't come together in the alphabet :-) Hopefully, the TU will be understood as a thank you.

...and the inside:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This blog hop will run from today, August 28th until August 31st. We will be
drawing for winners on September 1st on the Lovebug blog

You're at the end of the HOP! Head on back to Lovebug Scrapbooking.

It's been a while.....

2010-08-19T21:12:00.006-02:30

.... since I uploaded any of my layouts. That's because I haven't had much interest in scrapping this summer -- well, at least not as much as I usually would :-)

These are mostly done this month.

Sketch by Stephanie and Summer Camp challenge at Lovebug Scrapbooking

Kit layout from Scrapbook Heaven

Sketch by Helen H.

Lovebug Summer Camp challenge

Lovebug Summer Camp challenge

July kit layout from Lovebug Scrapbooking

Lovebug Summer Camp challenge

Sketch by Ali and Summer Camp challenge at Lovebug

August kit layout at Scrapbook Heaven

"Ten in Ten" Card Event!

2010-08-09T18:14:00.000-02:30

TEN IN TEN CARD EVENT!!

We have pulled out all the stops for this event. We are going to have a 10 hour Card marathon! Come and join our DT as we will be offering tutorials on how to make 10 cards in 10 hours. This is a one day event!!

When: Aug. 14th
Where: http://www.scrapbookheavenga.com/boards/
Time: 9:00 am (CST)

Every hour one of our DT's will post a new card tutorial. You will have two days to complete all your cards. Join us for this exciting event. You don't want to miss it.

WINNER of ribbon RAK.........

2010-08-05T13:26:00.001-02:30

for the blog hop is COLLEEN!

I'll drop something in the mail for you this week!

Happy Birthday banner

2010-07-31T06:00:00.000-02:30

Welcome to Lovebug Scrapbooking's "INSPIRE US!" blog hop!! Our blog hops
take place on the last Saturday of every month. Thanks so much for joining
us!

If you just happened by this blog and didn't realize a blog hop was taking
place, please go back to Lovebug Scrapbooking and start the Hop. You won't
want to miss all the inspiration from our members....... or the prizes :-)

Our theme for July is "HAPPY BIRTHDAY".

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

For my project this month, I decided to make a Birthday banner and I will share the tutorial with you here.

I started by making a template (3 1/2 X 4 1/2 inches) I made a mark at 1 3/4 and drew a triangle shape.

Cut out as many triangles as there are letters (for my project, I did my name).

I wanted a scalloped edge on my triangles, so I used my border punch and made some scalloped pieces. I adhered them with glue.

Here's how I got the rounded edge at the point of the triangle:

step 1: Adhere one scalloped piece along one edge.

Step 2: Trim the edge as shown.

Step 3: Adhere second piece, aligning them and making sure 2 halves of a scallop are matching up.

Step 4: Using your scissors, trim the second scalloped piece.

Using various supplies, embellish your triangles. Adhere to a strip of ribbon.

I added some Prima flowers on the ends of my banner. Oh, and I used Lovebug's JUNE kit!

Hope you enjoyed this tutorial!

Leave a comment and I'll put you name in for a bag of RIBBON! I'll draw for the prize on August 4th.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This blog hop will run from today, July 31st until August 3rd. We will be
drawing for winners on August 4th on the Lovebug blog.

You are now at the end of our blog hop! Head back to Lovebug Scrapbooking!

And the bride wore WHITE......

2010-06-26T08:31:00.005-02:30

Welcome to Lovebug Scrapbooking's "INSPIRE US!" blog hop!! Our blog hops
take place on the last Saturday of every month. Thanks so much for joining
us!

If you just happened by this blog and didn't realize a blog hop was taking
place, please go back to Lovebug Scrapbooking and start the Hop. You won't
want to miss all the ispiration from our members....... or the prizes :-)

Our theme for June is "Here Comes the Bride".

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I wanted to challenge you to create an "all-white" layout or card. You may add in a small amount of one other color, but that's it! It can be one you've created previously, or a new one -- I know how busy things can be at this time of year :-)

Post a link here in the comments.

Here is one I created over a year ago.

For a prize, I am offering up an all-white package :-) I found a few other white items that are not shown in this picture. There's cardstock, acrylic appliques, ribbon, bling, Thickers and more!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This blog hop will run from today, June 26th until June 29th. We will be drawing for winners on June 30th on the Lovebug Blog. Be sure to check back and see if you're a WINNER!

Follow along in our blog hop! Your next stop is LOIS!

What an Accomplishment!

2010-06-13T07:07:00.001-02:30

So glad you have stopped by for the Scrapbook Heaven "Dads and Grads" Blog Hop & Crop. If you have no idea what I am talking about, check out the details HERE!

~~~~~~~~~~~~

For me, graduation was all about achievement and accomplishing your goals as a student. I enjoyed learning and school wasn't too difficult for me. Still, it was a big achievement to graduate with honors.

My oldest son recently finished his 12th year of home education. He is so glad to be finished :-) Schoolwork was not fun for him, but most of the time he did what he was instructed, without too much complaining. LOL! Graduating was a HUGE accomplishment! I can't wait to see what avenue he will take this coming fall -- maybe MORE education?!??

So, on to my challenge for this blog hop & crop. I decided to share a sketch with you, with a little stipulation -- your layout must show some sort of accomplishment or achievement.

Speaking of my oldest son , this layout is showing one of his accomplishments :-)

~~~~~~~~~~~

Now it’s your turn! Create a project using this sketch and upload it to the Scrapbook Heaven Gallery, (or some other online gallery) by June 20th. Post a link to your project in the comments section here as well. One lucky random winner will be selected to receive a ribbon/flower prize from Scrapbook Heaven!

Be sure to return to the Scrapbook Heaven Blog tomorrow to see the next stop in our HOP!

My Birth Story

2010-06-10T19:14:00.007-02:30

I am planning to take part in a challenge by "Mommy's Piggy Tales" -- a challenge to record your youth in 15 posts. Janna will be posting a new journal prompt each Thursday. I think this is a terrific idea. I know my kids always love to hear stories about when I was younger and some of the silly things I did.

Today's post is about my birth story.

I was born during the summer of 1967 -- my mom says it was so hot that summer, and she, being pregnant, felt so uncomfortable. Having a 17 month old running around didn't make things easier for her, I'm sure :-) The 17 month-old was my older sister.

Anyway, I decided to make my first appearance on August 1st, weighing in at 7 lbs 14 ozs. We were living in Springdale at the time, on Cedar Lane. I was born at the Springdale Cottage Hospital.

Mom always said she was hoping for a boy, but she would end up having yet another girl before a boy came along. She named me Carla after my Dad (his second name was Carl), and my second name Penney, which was my mom's maiden name.

I think I was a pretty easy-going baby. From the photos, I know I had a very loving and attentive older sister :-) We still are close now, as we were back then.

Who loves Basic Grey??

2010-06-08T22:08:00.002-02:30

Anything Basic Grey is worth checking into :-) Lovely prizes up for grabs!

Scrapbook Heaven kits are in store!

2010-06-03T08:23:00.002-02:30

I was so happy to work with the Petite Kit -- let me tell you, though, this kit is anything BUT petite! Don't let the name fool you :-)

It's got quite the assortment of embellishments, and I love the Girl's Paperie line of papers in the kit. Gorgeous!

Here are the first of my creations:

I'll be posting more after this weekend -- I'm heading to a scrap retreat and will get more time to use my kit :-)

WINNER!!

2010-06-02T13:15:00.003-02:30

Thanks for all new new followers this weekend! Makes a girl feel special ;-)

If you took part in the Lovebug blog hop AND are a follower, I put your name in for a CD by my youngest sister, called "On The Right Track".

The winner is LIZ! Congrats!! Send me an email with your mailing address and I'll drop that in the mail for you. ENJOY!

"INSPIRE US!" -- Graduation

2010-05-29T08:30:00.001-02:30

Welcome to Lovebug Scrapbooking's "INSPIRE US!" blog hop!! Our blog hops take place on the last Saturday of every month. Thanks so much for joining us!

If you just happened by this blog and didn't realize a blog hop was taking place, please go back to Lovebug Scrapbooking and start the Hop. You won't want to miss all the inspiration from our members....... or the prizes :-)

Our theme for May is "Graduation".

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Just yesterday I had my son in to get his graduation pictures done. Since we are homeschooling our children, they won't get to take part in the public school graduation. Luke didn't mind that at all, but I did want him to get his cap/gown pictures done. Did he ever look handsome! I don't have a pic to share with you yet, but I will post when I get them. We are planning a graduation ceremony some time in June.

We are so proud of our boy, or I should say -- young man! He has so much potential and so much to look forward to.

Anyway, on to my project!

You'll need a 8.5x11 sheet of cardstock. Score and fold in half length-wise and width-wise.

Cut out the bottom left corner. NOTE: Flip your cardstock over so the wrong side is on top before cutting. I did my sample the wrong way.

Flip the bottom flap up. Cut a slit at the top, as shown. I think there are punches to do this, but I don;t have one :-) I used my exacto knife.

Using some sticky tape, adhere the flap down.

Add your greeting. I cut a small rectangle to go inside the flap. I'll insert a gift certificate or some money in there.

Decorate the front of your card.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

This blog hop will run from today, May 29th until June 1st. Lovebug will be drawing for winners on June 2nd .

I also have a prize to give away. If you follow my blog, I'll put your name in for a CD by my youngest sister. It's called "On The Right Track".

You are at the end of the blog hop!

Head back to Lovebug Scrapbooking and leave a comment :-)

Mother's Day blog hop!

2010-04-29T11:54:00.001-02:30

“FLOWER POWER CROP”

2010-04-28T12:03:00.001-02:30

Scrapbook Heaven has done it again!! The Design Team has put together an amazing assortment of tutorials featuring flowers!! Have you ever wondered how to make the flowers you see on other peoples layouts? Join us for our 3 day on-line “FLOWER POWER” event and create flowers you will be proud to add to your next project!

Complete rules will be posted in the forum.

Where: http://www.scrapbookheavenga.com/boards/
When: Friday May 14th – Sunday May 16th
Time: 9am – 4pm
Projects Due: May 28th

Bring a friend and receive an extra entry for the grand prize!
Share this with your Facebook friends for yet another entry!

Winner of my.....

2010-04-28T08:30:00.000-02:30

ribbon RAK for the Lovebug blog hop is RACHEL (mymommymoments). Congrats!! I'll get that sent out this week :-)

Lovebug's "Inspire Us!" Blog Hop

2010-04-24T06:00:00.003-02:30

Welcome to Lovebug Scrapbooking's "INSPIRE US!" blog hop!! Our blog hops take place on the last Saturday of every month. Thanks so much for joining us!

If you just happened by this blog and didn't realize a blog hop was taking place, please go back to Lovebug Scrapbooking and start the Hop. You won't want to miss all the inspiration from our members....... or the prizes :-)

Our theme for April is "Mother's Day/Father's Day". Time to honor our mothers and fathers!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

For my project, I enlisted the help of my daughter :-) I just KNEW she'd want to make something for me for Mother's Day! She decided on a mini album in which she will write some things about me and herself, and will probably add some photos (I'm not allowed to see that part until Mother's Day!)

Okay.....start with a sheet of patterned paper 12x12 inches. A thicker paper would work best. Score it at 5 3/4 and 11 3/4 inches. Fold.

Apply sticky tape along the small edge, and adhere. You'll have something like a flattened tube.

Score at 6 inches and fold in half. This is the basis for your mini album.

Cut a piece of contrasting paper 3 x 5 3/4 inches. You can scallop the edges for a nicer look :-) Score and fold in half. Adhere to album edge, as shown.

Punch two holes in the binding. Add eyelets and tie with ribbon.

There are two paper inserts that can be written on or decorated. The size is 5 1/2 x 6 inches. These can be scalloped on the edge OR you can add a tab.

Decorate front of album as desired.

For this project, we used the new "Sophie" line by Bo Bunny.

Here are some other ideas for children to make for Mother's Day:
Mother's Day Crafts
Enchanted Learning - Mother's Day
Today's Parent - Crafts & Fun
DLTK's Mother's Day Activities

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This blog hop will run from today, April 24th until April 27th. Lovebug will be drawing for winners on April 28th

I will also draw for a ribbon RAK on my blog. Leave a comment!

Head back to Lovebug Scrapbooking and let them know you finished the Hop!

Couple of layouts...

2010-04-21T21:26:00.002-02:30

Lovebug March kit

2010-04-21T21:21:00.004-02:30

I wanted to share my projects using Lovebug's March kit. There's only ONE left in the store! Such a SUPER kit for any of those beach photos you still haven't scrapped!

Thanks for looking!

Couple of winners to post today!

2010-04-21T13:15:00.003-02:30

For my "Booking It" post -- the winner of Just Jane, by Nancy Moser is DANA!

.... and for the Scrapbook Heaven blog hop , the winner of a scrappy rak is BRITTNEY!

Email me with your mailing address :-)

"Spring in my Step" Blog Hop!

2010-04-17T07:00:00.000-02:30

Welcome to Scrapbook Heaven's "Spring in my Step" blog hop!! Thanks so much for joining us! We are excited to be hosting our FIRST ever blog hop!

If you just happened by my blog and didn't realize a blog hop was taking place, please go back to Scrapbook Heaven and start the Hop. Our members have some wonderful inspiration to share with you..... and also, some prizes :-)

Our theme is "Spring in my Step". We'll be sharing a variety of Spring-y projects with you.

~*~*~***~*~*~

My project is a little treat bag. I used Scrapbook Heaven's April kit for this project.

You start with a sheet of 8 1/2 x 11 cardstock. Score it lengthwise at 2 1/2" and 6". Turn 90 degrees and score at 4 3/4" and 6 1/4". Adhere tape or glue as shown.

Turn your paper over so that the "base" is on the bottom.

Fold in one corner at a time, adhering to side edge.

This is what it should look like inside

Repeat with other 3 corners.

Your box should look like this now. Add glue or tape to top area as marked.

Crease side edges and decorate bag as desired.

Punch hole in top.

Fill with treats and add ribbon to close.

Our blog hop run from today, April 17th until April 20th. Invite your friends to play along! We'll be drawing for prizes on Wednesday, the 21st.

Your next stop in our Hop is Teresa!

~*~*~***~*~*~

I am giving away a RAK on Wednesday, also :-) Leave a comment sharing your favorite indicator of SPRING -- I'm sure it's NOT snow, which is what we had in Newfoundland yesterday! LOL!

Two more layouts...

2010-04-12T09:25:00.003-02:30

for this month. I'm afraid this won't be a ver productive month for scrapbooking. Too many other things going on right now :-)

This layout was for a challenge at Savvy n Sassy, and also for Susan's challenge for Sisterhood of Scrap blog hop.

Used my Scrapbook Heaven April kit for this layout.

BOOKING It!

2010-04-10T17:42:00.007-02:30

Well, not much reading for me in March. I was too busy with LIFE! I'm not sure how April will be as I'll be doing some spring cleaning and also trying to gear up for our school ending for the year. We've made lots of plans for our homeschool group, so that will take some of my time away from reading.

I did read:

~~ Song of Erin, by BJ Hoff

GREAT story! I'll be looking for more of her books

~~ House Rules, by Jodi Picoult

This one was about a young teen with Asperger's Syndrome who is accused of murder. Very interesting read; I learned a lot about the syndrome. The author did a great amount of research on the subject.

Currently reading:

~~Just Jane, by Nancy Moser

An easy read about author Jane Austen. Since I have not ready any of Austen's works, I don't know how accurate the portrayal is.

Planning to read:

~~The Winds of Promise, and To Gather the Wind, by Bodie and Brock Thoene. It's set in the 1800's during the California gold rush. Should be interesting!

~~Love Finds You in Liberty Indiana, by Melanie Dobson. Haven't read any of her books yet, but should be an easy ready. This one is about the Underground Railroad.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

How about you? Any plans for this month? Do you find that you are slowing down with your reading at this time of year, or are you reading more? I'd love to hear from you!

This month I am giving away the Just Jane book, by Nancy Moser (I'm almost finished it!).

Leave a comment and I'll enter your name in for the drawing on April 23rd.

"Sisterhood of Scrap" Blog Hop & Crop

2010-04-09T08:00:00.003-02:30

Welcome to Sisterhood of Scrap's “Scrappy Spring Clean-up” Blog Hop & Crop!! So glad you joined us!

If you did not arrive here from the Sisterhood of Scrap blog, please go back and check out the fun we have planned. Eight days of challenges to help you use up and clean up your scrappy supplies! You won't want to miss it!

My challenge for you today is to use AT LEAST three types of alphas/fonts in you project -- something which I LOVE doing :-) So dig out your stickers, chipboard, Thickers..... and use 'em up!

Here are a couple of layouts in which I have used more than 3 fonts:

Here's the prize you're playing for -- 9 yards of ribbon!

There are a few ways that you can get your layout to us:

=> Add a link to your project in the comments of this post
=> Send it to us my email
=> Use the inlinkz button below -- click on the blue froggy :-)

This challenge is due on April 16th.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Drop by Sisterhood of Scrap again tomorrow as the DT share another challenge with you!

"Pay it Forward" -- spring cleaning

2010-04-05T20:07:00.003-02:30

My friend Linda runs a Children's Christmas program. Basically, she accepts sponsored gifts and money, and in return provides gifts for mom and dad -- bought by children for just $2. Isn't that a great idea! You can read about it HERE!

She's asking for donations....... so, while you're doing your spring cleaning, keep her in mind! I know I've got some items around my house that I have no need of. Maybe it's a gift that you know you will never use. Maybe you're a crafty person with some items you can donate. She would so appreciate it, and I'm sure you'll bring joy to lots of children. They are so excited to be able to buy gifts for their moms and dads.

Reveal time!

2010-04-03T14:55:00.005-02:30

Here are two of my layouts I created with Scrapbook Heaven's APRIL kit. A few more to come later this weekend.....

I just LOVE the summer colors!

BTW, there's a sketch crop going on at Scrapbook Heaven, too :-) Check it out! You've got until April 9th to upload your layouts!

WINNER....... and some layouts

2010-03-31T22:30:00.005-02:30

Winner of the Lovebug bloghop prize (a scrappy RAK from me!) is FIGNIE!! Congrats, Dee. Email me with your mailing address and I'll drop something in the mail for you :-)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Just a few more March layouts to share. I made my goal of 20 layouts (I think I am now at 22), so I am happy :-)

Bunny Treat Holder - "Inspire Us!"

2010-03-27T07:30:00.000-02:30

Welcome to Lovebug Scrapbooking's "INSPIRE US!" blog hop!! Our blog hops
take place on the last Saturday of every month. Thanks so much for joining
us!

If you just happened by this blog and didn't realize a blog hop was taking
place, please go back to Lovebug Scrapbooking and start the Hop. You won't
want to miss all the inspiration from our members....... or the prizes :-)

Our theme for March is "EASTER".

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

For my Easter project, I made a Bunny Treat Holder. I had this saved on my computer for some time now, but I don't know what site I saved it from.

These would be very easy for children to make, and also would be great for teachers to give out to students.

INSTRUCTIONS:

I started with a piece of white cardstock, 4x6 inches. Score in half length-wise. Make a light mark at the center of each end, and draw a line from the ends to the scored rectangle (as shown). Score and fold these lines. Punch 4 holes as shown.

Draw and cut out bunny ears and feet. For the feet, I traced around a Memento ink. Add ink to make his paw prints. For the ear shapes, leave a little tab so you can stick them on the triangle shape. I used ink to add some detail.

You need about 12-14 inches of ribbon to tie the treat box together. Thread the ribbon as shown. In the top left hole, the ribbon goes from the outside, in ...... then across to the top right hole from inside, out :-) Center the ribbon, then thread each end in the bottom holes (from the inside, out). Believe me -- I tried a number of different combinations before coming up with one that worked!

(Note: this one has the front holes too close to the center point. It didn't draw together well)

Draw face on your bunny. This should be done before threading the ribbon :-) I added some ink for the cheeks.

Don't forget the treats! Draw ribbon together and fold box up. Tie into bow.
Adhere feet and ears as shown.

Thanks for looking at my Easter project! Leave a comment sharing something you do at Easter time. I'll draw a winner on the 31st for a scrappy RAK!

If you become a follower of my blog, you won't miss out on the announcement (wink!)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This blog hop will run from today, March 27th until March 30th. We will be drawing for winners on March 31st.

You are at the END of the Hop. Head back to Lovebug Scrapbooking to finish up!

sharing

2010-03-23T11:26:00.002-02:30

some more layouts :-)

Using up the last of my Basic Grey "Origins". I think I have only one full sheet of paper left from this kit . This was for our Challenge Monday on Sisterhood of Scrap.

Done for Week 1 of Great Ribbon Rave at Savvy n Sassy.

Scraplift of "venus" on Lovebug Scrapbooking.

WINNER of book....

2010-03-19T18:09:00.002-02:30

that I had up for grabs is...............

WANITA!! Congrats :-)

Email me with your mailing address, and I'll get it in the mail next week.

check out.....

2010-03-19T10:47:00.000-02:30

Lovebug Scrapbooking blog! We're preparing for our March blog hop!

Online crops...

2010-03-16T10:56:00.005-02:30

There's a couple going on now, and you have time to get in on the prizes :-)

At Scrapbook Heaven "Green With Envy" crop -- Have fun creating layouts using environmentaly friendly products. Projects are not due until March 20th.

On Sisterhood of Scrap "March Green Challenges" -- Seven challenges based on the color GREEN. Projects are due March 21st.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Here are a few layouts I did this weekend:

This was a scraplift of Helen's on SOS. She hosted a one-hour challenge. LOVE those!

Done for a challenge on Scrapbook Heaven

Scraplift of Carissa on Lovebug Scrapbooking.

Thanks for looking!

Some layouts....

2010-03-13T11:15:00.004-03:30

done so far in March. I won't get nearly as much done as the past two months :-)

This one is based on a sketch by Susan Stringfellow - Creatively Savvy.
I know the pics aren't the best, but sometimes you have to use what you've got!

This one was done for a challenge on Sisterhood of Scrap.

Another challenge at Sisterhood of Scrap :-)

This one is for a challenge I'm posting later on Scrapbook Heaven. Check it out! We're have a "Green With Envy" crop today!

This one was posted on Lovebug Scrapbooking and is a scraplift of Linda.

February Reading ....AND a giveaway!!

2010-03-07T07:12:00.011-03:30

Here's what I read last month:

~~ Michal - Jill Eileen Smith
~~ Abigail - Jill Eileen Smith
Set in Bible times and all about two of King David's wives. GREAT books!! Really enjoyed them! Sent them off to my mom to read.

The Daughters of Jacob Kane - set of 2 books by Sharlene MacLaren. Not sure if there's more in the series or not.
~~ Hannah Grace
~~ Maggie Rose
These were really good, as well. Enjoyed them! I think the third book is coming out this summer.
~~ Watch Over Me - Christa Parrish
Not the ending I expected, but good book :-) I like her writing style. I think this is only her second book. Will keep an eye out for more of her books.

TO read this month:

~~ Stepping Into Sunlight, by Sharon Hinck
Just started this one yesterday. A bit slow at the start, but I think it will get more interesting.
~~ Stones of My Accusers - Tracy Groot
This one is set in Bible times, just after Jesus' crucifixion.

~~ Song of Erin, by BJ Hoff.
Found this one at the library and am excited to start reading it. From the back of the book, ".... an epic that spans generations and relives one of the most colorful eras in American history while shedding new light on the "terrible beauty" and ancient glory that is Ireland."

~~ Take One
~~ Take Two
Thought I'd try something by Karen Kingsbury again. Haven't read her books in AGES! These are two of a set of 4 (two new releases to come out this spring and summer)

~~~~~~~~~~~~

So, how about you?? What are you planning to read this month?

Leave a comment and I'll enter you name for a book drawing. I have "At The Scent of Water", by Linda Nichols to give away. I somehow ended up with two copies :-) I've read several of her books, and they are very well written. This one is no exception. You'll be sure to enjoy it!

I'll draw for a winner before the end of the month. I also picked up two new books this week. I plan to give them away also. Be watching during the first week of each month for a book give-away!

today.....

2010-03-04T21:23:00.002-03:30

Outside my window... it's dark. Snow is blowing around a bit.

I am thankful... I am able to stay at home with my children.

I am thinking... I should go wash up and get into pjs -- American Idol is coming on soon.

From the kitchen... I see the light on over the stove. Some dishes are left on the counter-top, but I will get to those in the morning.

I am wearing... brown cords and a long-sleved shirt.

I am reading... Someone to Take Care of Me (can't remember the author)

I am hoping... that I can stay away from sweets and junk for a month! Starting a liver cleanse tomorrow.

I am hearing... tv from the family room.

I am working on.... making my list of prizes to get in the mail.

Around the house... the only light on are here and in the kitchen. Everyone is sitting in the dark, watching tv or playing a game.

One of my favorite things... watching "The Office" :-)

A few plans for the rest of the week... get some scrapbook layouts done on Saturday

31 layouts completed

2010-03-04T07:16:00.000-03:30

for February! WOW!

Spring card - "INSPIRE US!" Blog Hop

2010-02-27T07:59:00.000-03:30

Welcome to Lovebug Scrapbooking's "INSPIRE US!" blog hop!! Our blog hops take place on the last Saturday of every month. Thanks so much for joining in the fun!

If you just happened by this blog and didn't realize a blog hop was taking place, please go back to Lovebug Scrapbooking and start the Hop. You won't want to miss all the inspiration from our members....... or the prizes :-)

Our theme for February is "Leaps and Bounds".

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

For my "spring-y" project, I decided to make a card.

Step 1:
Cut cardstock 7 x 11 inches. Score at 5 1/2 inches and fold in half.

Step 2:
On the inside left side of the card, lightly mark the center. Attach diecut sticker in center.

Step 3:
Using exacto knife, carefully cut around the right-hand part of the diecut, leaving a small cardstock edge. Don't cut past the center line.

Step 4:
Score along the line you drew down the center, and fold card back as shown.

Step 5:
Finish decorating your card.

Hope you enjoyed this little tutorial :-)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Lovebug Blog Hop will run from today, February 27th until March 2nd. There will be a prize drawing on March 3rd.

You've reached the end our blog hop! Head back to Lovebug Scrapbooking blog to leave your comment and be entered in the prize drawing.

a few reminders

2010-02-20T20:41:00.002-03:30

Blog Hop for Lovebug Scrapbooking coming up next Saturday. If you're interested in taking part, check this link!

Challenge Monday at Sisterhood of Scrap is HERE! You could win a gift certificate from The Paper Passion.

I've updated my cooking blog. Don't forget Make It Monday! New theme will be posted on Monday.

Thousand Words Thursday- Feb 18

2010-02-18T20:20:00.003-03:30

This photo was taken in March 2006. We were getting lots of Redpolls visiting our feeders. Out of our back deck was mostly where they would gather. There was a piece of plywood on the deck, and during a storm, the wind blew the plywood over and it fell on one of the birds, killing it. Jessica felt so bad about it.

More layouts

2010-02-17T18:22:00.005-03:30

.... only 11 more to do to reach my goal of 29 for this month :-)

13

14

15

16

Winner of blog candy!

2010-02-16T20:33:00.005-03:30

Wow, lots of great advice in the comments for my blog candy! Thanks so much, ladies, for participating.

I wrote the names out on paper, and got my youngest son to draw the winning name.

.... and the winner is........

CONGRATS, Kat! Send me an email with your mailing address and I'll get the DVD in the mail for you :-)

Valentine's Blog Candy

2010-02-13T13:18:00.007-03:30

Well, since this is my first time offering BLOG CANDY here, I thought I should explain what blog candy actually IS :-)

You can't eat it, but you will enjoy it. It could be something you might not expect to get, but it's exciting when you do. Maybe something you'd like, but haven't gotten around to buying. It kinda reminds me of when my Dad would come home from work with a "Sugar Daddy" pop for us kids. We didn't always expect it, but boy, was it ever nice to receive!!

Anyway, on to MY blog candy!

I have this Special Collector's Edition of "Fireproof" to give away. This movie has been watched by millions, I'm sure. It's an inspiring love story of a fire-fighter and his wife, whose marriage is in need of rescuing. Lots of great lessons in this movie for anyone in a relationship!

All you have to do to have a chance to WIN this movie is to leave a comment with some LOVE advice --- What advice would you give to someone in a relationship crisis or even to someone just starting out in a relationship?

I'll draw for a winner on Monday, February 15th -- the day Devin and I got engaged :-)

You might want to follow my blog so you can see if you've won! I'll also have another bit of candy sometime next week, especially for all you book lovers!

Today

2010-02-10T18:50:00.002-03:30

Just got back about an hour ago from Robert's Arm, from a funeral -- my bil's mother passed away this past Saturday. Was a good funeral, as funerals go, and you could certainly sense the support of the family. Was so proud of my sister and my brother-in-law; they both did some speaking at the funeral and did a fabulous job with such difficult tasks.

Anyway, back home and kids are all at Air Cadets. I'm just checking up on email and the forums. Checked out Kat's blog and decided to play along with her theme, TODAY.....

Outside my window... it's dark.
I am thankful... that my family is healthy.
I am thinking... I should probably get the dishes cleaned up and then maybe do some scrapping.
I am celebrating... Valentine's Day on Friday. We have a homeschool V-Day party at my house.
From the kitchen... I hear Luke getting some supper.
I am wearing... my jeans and a grey sweater.
I am reading... Abigail, by Jill Eileen Smith
I am hoping... that Devin gets more clients!
I am hearing... the news (from the family room) and Discovery Channel from the Living Room.
I am working on.... setting up a schedule for my design team activities.
Around the house... Well, laundry to fold and put away, dishes to do.......
One of my favorite things... Just ate a Lindor truffle :-)
A few plans for the rest of the week... See if I can visit my Gram tomorrow, maybe pick up a few groceries, bake some cupcakes for the Valentine party on Friday.

February Books

2010-02-10T16:28:00.001-03:30

Picked these books up from the library, but the only one I finished was the first book.

Dear To Me - Wanda Brunstetter
This was okay, but not that exciting. I find Brunstetter really takes a long time to tell a story -- could be a much shorter book :-)

These I brought back as I went to a Christian book store and bought a couple of new books to read.
Secrets of the Heart - Al and Joanna Lacy
A Time to Love - Al and Joanna Lacy
The Flight of Swallows - Audrey Howard

Ok, at the bookstore I picked up:

Michal - Jill Eileen Smith
Finished this one today and starting on Abigail this evening. Set in Bible times and all about King David's first wife. GREAT book!!

Abigail - Jill Eileen Smith
About another of King David's wives.

Also picked up Song of Erin, by BJ Hoff. Sent this one to my mother for her birthday, so I'll have to wait 'til she's done with it before I get a chance to read :-)

Oh, must update on the books I got this week at the library. Went to a new library out of town (about 20 minutes from here) and they have lots of Christion fiction.

These will be on my list for February:

The Daughters of Jacob Kane - set of 2 books by Sharlene MacLarrn. Not sure if there's more in the series or not.
Hannah Grace
Maggie Rose

Watch Over Me - Christa Parrish

Stones of My Accusers - Tracy Groot

The Adams County Trilogy - by Jerry S. Eicher. I only found two of the books, hopefully can get the third.
Rebecca's Promise
Rebecca's Return

That should be enough, don't you think?!!

Counting down....

2010-02-09T20:41:00.004-03:30

..... my 29 layouts for this month. 17 left to do!

10

11 I originally had 15 instead of 14 -- oops :-) Pics taken last April.

12 He REALLY is fun-loving! Had such a great time getting pics done.

New challenge posted...

2010-02-08T08:23:00.000-03:30

at Sisterhood of Scrap!

Check it out!

Winner of ....

2010-02-07T17:41:00.002-03:30

my blog prize for the Lovebug Scrapbooking blog hop is.......

RAE!! Congrats, Rae :-) I'll be emailing you for your mailing info......

two more make NINE!

2010-02-06T19:40:00.002-03:30

Two more layouts for my "29 layouts in February" challenge. I wonder how many Susan has done? LOL!

8 Pictures from several years ago.

9 These photos were taken last April.

online crop

2010-02-06T19:39:00.001-03:30

.....at Sisterhood of Scrap!

Join us on February 12th, 5pm EST as we kick off the "opening ceremonies" for our Winter Olympics Online Crop! One night only! Lots of fun challenges, games, and of course, some prizes to hand out (one for every challenge!)

You won't want to miss this! Bring a friend :-)

Closing ceremonies February 28th.

more layouts

2010-02-05T19:01:00.005-03:30

Working on my "29 layouts" challenge and have a few layouts to share.

5 LOVE this photo of my daughter!

6 This one I used a sketch by Moma, done for Sketches: Creatively Yours. Photo was from three years ago. They've grown so much since then!

7 Another one of my lovely daughter.

Update on resolutions

2010-02-04T21:04:00.002-03:30

Time for an update on my resolutions post. Let's see how I am doing :-)

SCRAPPY:
~ submit at least 2 layouts per month -- Didn't submit any in January

~ scrap at least 3 layouts per week -- I did 27 layouts last month. Challenged to get 29 done for February.

~ organize all my photos, both printed and digital -- Printed off some photos, but didn't do any organizing.

~ I would like to post more on my blog. I think this is going okay -- could be better, though.

PERSONAL:

~ Definitely to lose some weight, probably 25-30 lbs. Haven't even started yet. UGH!

~ Walk at least 4 days a week. Nope, hasn't happened.

~ Keep up with my devotional in the mornings. Currently I'm following a blog that gives the readings for each day, and also some thoughts about the readings. It's called "For the Love of God". Did great for about 11 days, then I ran out of printer paper. I know I could have followed online, but.... yeah, that was my excuse. Gotta get back on this!

~ Spend more time reading to my children. Did very well :-) We're almost finished "Understood Betsy".

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So, there you go -- not too well, I guess.

January books

2010-02-04T14:04:00.001-03:30

Books I read in January:

Twice Loved - Lori Copeland
This was the first book in a series. I enjoyed it and will try to find the rest.

Outlaw's Bride - Lori Copeland
Agaian, first in a series, but I don't have the rest of the books. Will try to get them at our public library.

Mr. and Ms. Annoymous
Can't even remember who wrote this and don't want to go search and see. Didn't enjoy this one.

The Penny Pincher's Club - Sarah Strohmeyer
Very light read, but good :-)

The Mountain Song Legacy by B. J. Hoff
- A Distant Music
- The Wind Harp
- The Song Weaver

Really enjoyed this series! I think it's the first books I've read by this author. I actually bought another novel by BJ Hoff and it's on my list for February.

What have you read this past month??

new layouts.... and a challenge!

2010-02-03T14:26:00.006-03:30

Seems like my sister Susan and I each created 27 layouts last month, so we decided this month to challenge each other to do 29 layouts -- one for each day in February and one for good luck :-) A few of the girls on Sisterhood of Scrap are also taking part in the challenge.

These first three were done in January -- just wanted to share them.

Really loving this CUTE line from My Mind's Eye!

Sketch by April:

Sketch by Wanda, and parts of a kit from Scrapbook Heaven.

Okay, for February~~~~

1 Sketch by Melissa, and Feb. kit from Scrapbook Heaven.

2 Sketch by Cheryl:

3 Sketch by Marcia, and Feb. kit from Scrapbook Heaven.

4 Sketch by Jean, and Feb. kit from Scrapbook Heaven

I have another done, but can't show it until Friday.

Thanks for looking! Wish me luck :-)

Love Me Do!

2010-01-30T06:08:00.002-03:30

Welcome to Lovebug Scrapbooking's "INSPIRE US!" blog hop!! This is the first of 12 months of inspiration, each to take place on the last Saturday of every month. Thanks so much for joining us!

If you just happened by this blog and didn't realize a blog hop was taking place, please go back to Lovebug Scrapbooking and start the Hop. You won't want to miss all the ispiration from our members....... or the prizes :-)

Our theme for January is "Love is In The Air".

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I got some new My Mind's Eye papers in the mail this week -- the "Love Me Do" collection. How sweet! ....... and I've been singing the Beatles' song all day!

Here are my lovely creations (using up some older photos from 1992-1995)

I have a little give-away :-)
Leave a favorite LOVE quote for your chance to win!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

This blog hop will run from today, January 30th until February 6th. There will be a prize drawing on February 7th.

You've reached the end our blog hop! Head back to Lovebug Scrapbooking blog to leave your comment and be entered in the prize drawing.

Love one another and you will be happy. It's as simple and as difficult as that. ~Michael Leunig

Layout share

2010-01-27T15:49:00.001-03:30

Did this one for a white.... er, black space challenge :-)

Using up the some of my Dixie Pieces kit.

Loving this Basic Grey ORIGINS line! Some of my favorite colors :-)

New theme is posted.....

2010-01-25T10:57:00.000-03:30

on my cooking blog.

Hope you can join me!

Lovebug online crop.....

2010-01-21T21:55:00.000-03:30

this weekend!

“It’s a Space Odyssey … it’s a Lovebug Crop … it’s, it’s … a Lovebug Odyssey!!

Are you ready Lovebugs for a most epic journey to the final frontier? The new year is upon us and we are almost ready to travel outta this world… who’s with us?!?!

Clear your calendars, the Lovebug Shuttle will be taking passengers on January 22nd and returning to earth sometime on January 24th. That’s right a journey lasting 3 whole days!! You had to know that something as fantastic and futuristic as the year 2010 would mean big things!”

Hope you can join in the fun!

I've been scrappin'!

2010-01-21T19:26:00.005-03:30

These were done for the sketch cop at Scrap Friendzy.

This layout was for a challenge at Sisterhood of Scrap -- Ali and Helen challenged us to use the WILD quote :-)

This was done using the Basic Grey pagekit.

The next two are based on sketches by Deanne Burton, my sis!

Take a look at Sketches: Creatively Yours and see what the rest of the DT did with Deanne's sketch!

Another one-hour challenge on Sisterhood of Scrap. LOVE those challenges!

Thanks for looking!

my cooking blog

2010-01-19T08:28:00.003-03:30

I have a blog carnival going on right now (and every Monday!). First theme is COOKIES. Check it out :-)

Something new at Lovebug!

2010-01-16T19:52:00.000-03:30

Books!

2010-01-16T14:05:00.000-03:30

Trying to do up some reading goals for this year.

One thing I really want to get back to is reading to Jessica and Benjamin. I've kinda left that by the wayside a bit, but now the plan is an hour of reading each weeknight. We started last night with one of my FAVORITE books -- Understood Betsy by Dorothy Canfield. This is my third time reading it aloud :-) I will get Jessica and Benjamin to choose another couple of books each for when we've finished this one.

As for me, I love to read historial fiction and Christian fiction. Whatever I can get at the library will make up some of my list of books for this year. Also, my mom (who is away teaching right now) always brings a few boxes of books when she comes home for the summer. Can't wait for that! New books :-)

I also have The Encyclopedia of Country Living by Carla Emery, that I want to get through. Others that I want to read (some are re-reads) are:

~~ To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee -- I read this one in highschool but want to read again.

~~ Chronicles of Narnia, by C.S. Lewis -- another set that I read as a teenager.

~~ Even Greater, by Reinhard Bonnke

~~ Take Control of Your Health, by Joseph Mercola

~~ Florence Nightingale, by Laura E. Richards

~~ Still Alice, by Lisa Genova

~~ Laying Down the Rails (Charlotte Mason Habits Handbook), by Sonya Shafer

~~ The Book of Negroes, by Lawrence Hill

I'm sure I'll have more to add this year, but this'll do for a start :-)

sketch layouts

2010-01-13T15:16:00.002-03:30

I created a couple of layouts about by son, Timothy. Isn't he sweet!?!!

(sketch by Becky Fleck)

(sketch by Allison Cope)

Online crop at Scrapbook Heaven!

2010-01-13T15:14:00.000-03:30

JAZZY JANUARY SKETCH CROP!!!

You won't want to miss this weekend of SKETCHES, FUN, GAMES and of course, PRIZES!
Remember to get registered early!! As an added incentive, bring a friend and both you and your friend will be given an extra ticket into our grand prize draw!!

When: Jan 29th & Jan. 30th
Time: Friday 6pm est
Where: http://www.scrapbookheavenga.com/boards/
Challenges due by: February 5th

One entry for each challenge you participate in! (by random drawing).

We look forward to seeing you there!!

Another couple of layouts.....

2010-01-10T18:25:00.002-03:30

This is based on a sketch by Alison Cope. My second boy and Deanne's second boy -- they are so alike they could be brothers :-)

Loved the photos I took of this little froggy friend. Benjamin actually spied him on the grass when we were walking one day. We all took turns holding him and then we set him on the ground again. He jumped into the water and swam around a bit. So neat to see him swimming :-)

I've been busy.....

2010-01-09T18:38:00.004-03:30

in this new year! Actually scrapped more than I thought I would.

LOVE the paper I used in this layout. Too bad you can't see all the sparkles on it. It's the new Bo Bunny -- hubby bought it for me for Christmas. Sketch by Amy G.

Benjamin praying for snow! LOL! We were just about buried in it, couldn't open the front door! Sketch by Ann Seleshanko.

Look at my sweet girl! Used Glimmer Mist but you can't really see it that well. This was done using Dixie Pieces December kit.

Bad photos, but I still wanted to use them. Used Creative Memories paper. Sketch by Liz Chidester.

LOVE the colors in this layout. Again, I used a Dixie Pieces kit (wonderful kits, btw!) Photos of out little hike to Boot Harbour this past summer. Sketch by Pamela Young

Reveal time at Scrapbook Heaven

2010-01-09T08:44:00.003-03:30

These are my layouts created with January's elite kit at Scrapbook Heaven - Scrapbook Treasures. Unfortunately it is SOLD OUT already! Well, unfortunate if you wanted on of these fabulous kits! You can subscribe and be sure you get yours next month :-)

Christmas cards already!!

2010-01-08T18:21:00.003-03:30

Started working on Christmas cards already :-) Maybe if I get some cards done, I'll actually mail them out in time for next Christmas.

Deanne and Lesley post a different challenge each month on Christmas Cards All Year 'Round. Check it out!

Here are my cards for January.

The four cards (above) were also done for a challenge at Scrap Friendzy -- they have a Super Sketch-a-Thon going on this month!

Let's talk resolutions.....

2010-01-07T21:31:00.002-03:30

Linda, our new SISTER at Sisterhood of Scrap, challenged us to write down our resolutions and post them so that others can help keep us in line :-) With that in mind, here are my resolutions.

SCRAPPY:
~ submit at least 2 layouts per month -- I haven't been submitting much at all, but I think I would like to see a layout of mine actually in print in a magazine.

~ scrap at least 3 layouts per week -- SHOULD be attainable, considering that I usually create between 200-250 layouts in a year

~ organize all my photos, both printed and digital -- Most of my digital prints are organized; I just want to get them printed and then organized into file boxes.

~ I would like to post more on my blog. Lately this has been very sporadic.

PERSONAL:

~ Definitely to lose some weight, probably 25-30 lbs. This one's gonna be tough and I love potato chips - they are my weakness!

~ Walk at least 4 days a week.

~ Keep up with my devotional in the mornings. Currently I'm following a blog that gives the readings for each day, and also some thoughts about the readings. It's called "For the Love of God".

~ Spend more time reading to my children. This is one thing we've kinda left by the wayside. They enjoy it so much, though. Tomorrow we will pick out a few books and decide what we'll start with.

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I think this will do for now :-) I may think of more later.

I am busy this week with organizing and purging. Starting with the children's bedrooms. I want their rooms done before we start back to school next week. Then, while they're working with school, I can get my room done and also the living areas of the house done. That's the plan!

Every Day is a Gift

2010-01-05T10:15:00.003-03:30

I've decided to choose a PHRASE for this year -- one that I can think about, pattern my choices after, and live with this thought in mind. My phrase is "Every Day is a Gift". I want to keep in mind that we are to live one day at a time; not looking to the past with regret, nor looking ahead with worry. If I look at each day as being a GIFT, then I certainly wouldn't want to waste my day :-)

Now, since the new year, I have not been doing good with this -- I've really had to work at getting my attitude right. I can see that this will definitely be something I'll need to work at. So, I think I chose the right phrase.

How about you? Do you chose a WORD or PHRASE for the year? I'd love to hear about it!

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. " James 1:17

Sisterhood of Scrap is having......

2009-12-13T08:05:00.004-03:30

an impromptu crop today! Check out the challenges and get your name in for the prize drawings!
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Here are my layouts using Scrapbook Heaven's December kit -- once again the kit is FULL of yummy supplies! I have so much scrappy goodness and not enough time to play!