Bits and Pieces

2012-01-16T09:51:00.000-05:00

I am so happy to report, that I FINALLY finished my December Daily album! It felt so good to get the last page finished, and then turn around and clean everything up. I've decided that trying to work on the album during the month of December is just not good for me. Instead, I will go back to my old way of doing things. Meaning, I will keep track of my days on a Word document and then put the album together in January. It takes a lot less time that way, and I don't feel as overwhelmed. I have to admit, that no matter how frustrated I got with the process, I love the final outcome.

This year was also difficult, because of Grandpa's passing. In fact, I almost gave up on the album, but decided that since I'm a good-bad-and-ugly kind of scrapper, that I had to go forth with the process. After all, the whole idea (at least for me) is to document the holiday season, and everything with Grandpa was part of the season.

So, without any turther ado, here is the rest of my December Daily Album. To see the first few pages, just scroll down a little bit.

Day Ten:

Day Eleven:

Day Twelve:

Day Thirteen:

Day Fourteen:

Day Fifteen:

Day Sixteen:

Day Seventeen:

Day Eighteen:

Day Nineteen:

Day Twenty:

Day Twenty-One:

Day Twenty-Two:

Day Twenty-Three:

Day Twenty-Four (Double):

Day Twenty-Five (Double):

I may end up adding another page or two, just of random pictures, because I have so many. However, I will decided that at a later date. For now, this is going in my basket, with all the others.

Okay, off to take down the Christmas decorations in my living room. Um, yea....nothing like putting it off and putting it off....:D

Have a great Monday!

Some Great News to Share!

2012-01-05T14:27:00.000-05:00

I am so excited, Ladies! I found out on Monday, that Amy had picked me to be on the next Design Team term over at Birds of a Feather Kit Co.! To say that I was excited and stunned would be an understatement! To say I am beyond thrilled doesn't even come close to expressing my excitement!

I can not wait to start sharing some of the fun and exciting things that the Design Team creates during the next six months!

Please, if you haven't done it already, head over the Birds of a Feather Kit Co., check out the kits and boutique, and don't forget to register for the board and gallery. Trust me, you will love it there!

Have a wonderful Thursday!

Happy New Year's Eve!

2011-12-31T10:36:00.000-05:00

I don't know about anyone else, but it's hard to believe that 2011 is coming to an end. I have to admit, I say this every year, but it seems like the older I get, the quicker life is passing me by :(

Looking back, 2011 wasn't a terrible year, in fact, it was pretty good for the Harper family. We had lots of blessings, and very few valleys, and I feel so blessed that we are together, healthy and happy.

On to scrappy related things, I have managed (so far) to complete all of the Count Down to 2012 challenges that have been posted over at Birds of a Feather Kit Co. I have to admit, that several of them have been super challenging for me, but that just makes me love the challenge, more.

Here are the rest of the challenges that I've completed, so far:

December 26th: Progressive Challenge

Day Four - Add something that has been misted/painted/stickled/smootched and a metal embellie

I misted the lace with two different colors and then added the tiny metal "t" at the bottom. The "t" stands for Toby :)

Day Five: Add a title with at least two different fonts and add your journaling

December 29th Challenge: What you may have missed in 2011

I did this layout about my mom. I need to remember that she is often alone, now, and I need to make sure that I check in with her several times a week. I love and appreciate her so much, and I need to remember to tell her these things.

I used the August Birds of a Feather kit for this layout.

December 30th Challenge: Bucket List

I had a ton of fun with this layout. I've wanted to do a Bucket List for a while, now, and this challenge gave me the push I needed. I was totally inspired by THIS awesome layout from Wendy McKee.

Here is a look at the journaling that I included on the tags.

Okay, off to see if I can get anything accomplished on my December Daily. I've only printed the pictures for the next two days, TWICE, and now I can't find them (roll my eyes).

Anyway, off to get crafty. I hope that everyone has a wonderful and safe New Year's Eve!

Count Down to 2012

2011-12-29T09:12:00.001-05:00

Happy Thursday! I don't know about you, but it sure doesn't seem possible that 2011 is almost gone! The older I get, the quicker the time seems to fly.

Well, this week over at Birds of a Feather, Amy and the DT have put together a Count Down to 2012 challenge. Each day, one of the gals post a challenge, and you have until midnight (your time) to get your layout posted. There are prizes for each day, and I have been having a blast doing some 'fast' scrapping. Seriously, it usually takes me FOREVER to put together a layout, so knowing that I only have until midnight is an added challenge that I am loving!

If you want all of the details for each challenge, you can check it out, HERE. So far there have been three challenges, and I am happy to say that I have completed all three of them. Here is a look at each of them:

December 26th: Progressive Challenge:

This challenge is probably the hardest one for me. We have certain steps to follow each day, and in the end, will have a finished layout. Since I like to plan out my layouts before I do any gluing, this has been the most challenging for me. However, I'm getting into the fun of it, and have to admit, I'm liking what I have, so far.

Day One: Two pictures, cardstock background and three different patterned papers.

Day Two: Three brads and at least two pieces of chipboard.

Day Three: Add a tag or ticket next to a picture.

December 27th Challenge: 2011 Year in Review:

A closer look at the journaling. I printed it out and then cut it all apart.

December 28th Challenge: Color of the Year:

Now to wait to see what today's challenge has in store for us :) I have to make a run to the grocery store, too. I'm thinking I should do that, first, so that I can spend the rest of the day scrapping!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T14:38:00.000-05:00

Wishing you and yours a magical and blessed Christmas Day! May God's love and blessing surround you today, and in the coming year!

December Daily

2011-12-23T20:26:00.000-05:00

Happy Christmas Eve, Eve!

It's been a busy one, today. I got up and headed out to do my last minute shopping. I ran by Home Depot to pick up stuff for a DIY marshmallow shooter for Kaleb, then Game Stop to pick up Jon's and Zack's last gifts, and finally to Walmart for groceries and some stocking stuffers.

Once back home, I put everything away, finished up page 9 in my December Daily album and then started working on cookies and goodies with the kids. I made cookies, Taylor made cookies and Kal worked on the Buckeyes (which I wasn't going to make, but made special for him).

After all that baking, I decided to get started on Christmas dinner, working to get some of the prep work out of the way, since we will be gone for a while tomorrow.

Now I am relaxing, thinking of working on my December Daily some more. Usually, I don't even start my DD until after December, but this year I decided to try and work on it during the month, and even though I'm behind, I'm still loving the process.

And, speaking of my December Daily, I wanted to share those pages that I've already finished. I've been using mostly Echo Park's Season's Greetings and Authentique's Wonder lines

Here is the cover. It has a window cut out in the center, and you can see the picture that is on the next page.

The cover opens up to show the Introduction Page.

December First:

December Second:

December Third:

December Fourth:

December Fifth:

December Sixth:

December Seventh:

December Eighth:

December Ninth:

I am starting on December Tenth, but it's going to be hard because it's about my very last visit with my grandpa. I almost stopped my album after everything that happened with Grandpa, but since I'm a good, bad and ugly type of scrapper, decided to continue with the album. After all, this project is all about what happens in our lives during the month of December, and Grandpa's passing is one of those happenings.

Okay, off to see if I can make any headway with the next couple of pages. I have a feeling I may not be doing too much scrapping the next couple of days!

Memorial Wreath

2011-12-21T10:42:00.001-05:00

This has been a super crazy month for all of us in the Harper household, especially me. My grandpa went into a nursing home right before Thanksgiving. On December 8th, he made the decision to stop dialysis and go into Hospice. He passed away quietly, on December 13th, surrounded by his children. In my heart, I know he was ready to go, but it has still been hard for me. His showing was this past Sunday and the funeral was on Monday. Now it's time for the family to grieve and then begin to heal. Instead of sending flowers to the funeral home, I decided to make a special wreath for my mom, full of pictures of my grandpa. This way, I figured she could keep it and hang it up. Since I was already making something similar for my mother-in-law, I had a lot of what I needed, and picked up the rest of the stuff at Hobby Lobby. Since red was Grandpa's favorite color, I knew it had to be the dominate color on the wreath. I gave her the wreath on Sunday, right before heading up to the funeral home, and she cried. I am so glad I decided to do this for her, and it was really worth the time and effort.

Here is a picture of the wreath. Please excuse the reflection of me...it was REALLY hard to get a good shot!

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

It's December 4th!

2011-12-04T08:53:00.000-05:00

I can't believe how quickly the days are slipping by me! This is both good and bad. It's good because I have a very challenging group of students this year, and days moving quickly mean that I am quickly moving towards May 23rd and the last day of school. However, it's also bad because this means that life outside of school is also flying by and I can't seem to enjoy everything!

Anyway, is anyone else working on a December Daily album? I've done one for the past three years, so am super excited about doing it again this year. I'm going to try a couple of different things this year. In the past, I've kept my journaling on a Word document and then gone back in January (or later) and put the album together). This year, I want to try and work on my pages during the month, getting things done at night, after work, or on the weekends, if possible. Also, in years past I've picked one scrappy line that I love and do the whole album using that line. This year, I've put together a total hodge-podge of papers and embellies and am totally excited to see what I can create!

With that all said and done, I am going to work on the album cover today and see what else I can accomplish, after we get back home from Zack's indoor soccer game. Hopefully I will have something to share with everyone tonight or tomorrow :)

One more thing before I get off of here, I wanted to share the last Birds of a Feather layout challenge that I created this month. For this one, we had two pictures for inspiration, and I picked this one:

And this is what I created. I picked up the papers at Hobby Lobby and then had a ton of fun using my new Sizzix Big Kick to cut the flourishes and flowers. This was a little out of my comfort zone, since there's no real patterned paper, but I loved the end results, especially the fun bright colors!

Okay, off to look for the perfect papers for the cover of my December Daily album and then jump in the shower and get ready to head out to the soccer game. I hope that everyone has a blessed Sunday!

Welcome to November

2011-11-26T12:11:00.000-05:00

Wow...I can't believe it's been over a month since my last post! I was doing so well at keeping up, but the end of October and the entire month of November has just kicked my rear. Zack finished his soccer season, there were practices for his spring season and indoor soccer games. Taylor continued with gymnastics and Kal joined an indoor soccer team, too. Add to that birthday parties, Thanksgiving and lots of Christmas decorating, and I just haven't had a ton of time for scrapping or blogging. However, things have started to settle down and I have vowed to get all caught up and back to the world of blogging.

So, I want to share the layouts that I've been working on the past few weeks.

This first layout was created for the November sketch challenge over at Birds of a Feather Kit Co. It was a Pagemap sketch and I had so much fun using pieces of the October BOAF kit and Prima leaves on this one.

This next layout was created for the November stash challenge over at Birds of a Feather and for the November recipe challenge over at From Here 2 Scrapternity. I loved playing with these chipboard frames from Crate and even threw some Shimmerz on the background, too.

This next layout is for the November color challenge over at Birds of a Feather Kit Co. and I also used the November BOAF kit. The Simple Stories papers are perfect for heritage layouts.

This last picture is for the November journaling challenge over at Birds of a Feather Kit Co. and for the scraplift challenge over at From Here 2 Scrapternity. I just love Christmas ornaments!

This shows all of the journaling tags that I tucked behind the ornament pictures.

XoXo Blog Hop Winner and Reminder!

2011-10-24T10:47:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday, all!
It was another super busy weekend in the Harper household, with Kaleb playing in two tournament soccer games and Zack playing in one. Add to that the Opening Night performance that Zack had on Saturday, and I am worn out!
Anyway, I wanted to take a minute to let everyone know my winner for the XoXo Blog Hop! I tossed all the names into a basket and had Mr. Kaleb Michael pick a winner, and he picked out Ms. Kayla's (mustangkayla) name!! So Kayla, just send me your information and I will get your GC out to you!!

Also, before I go, I want to remind everyone that there is still time to enter the October XoXo challenge. The deadline is October 31 :)

Have a wonderful Monday!!

Just a Reminder....

2011-10-19T11:06:00.000-04:00

You still have time to participate in the True XoXo Blog Hop! To get started, just head over to the True XoXo blog and get started! Remember, there are lots of prizes up for grabs!

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Birds of a Feather Crop Challenges

2011-10-18T21:42:00.001-04:00

Happy Tuesday, All! I just wanted to take a few minutes to share some of my latest layouts. Last weekend I played along with the Birds of a Feather Birthday Crop, and was happy that I completed 8 of the 10 challenges! I'm a SUPER slow scrapper, so 8 in one weekend is HUGE for me!

Challenge One: A Woman Never Reveals Her Age

For this challenge, we had to take our age and add that many of one particular embellishment to our layout. So, since I'm almost 40, I went with 40 tiny rhinestones that I added as centers to some of the background paper. I used this older picture of Miss Taylor Quinn and lots and lots of Simple Stories papers.

Challenge Two: Celebrate Yourself

For this challenge we were asked to create a layout that celebrates ourselves. I had tons of fun creating this layout! I used the September Scrapbook Circle kit and loved playing with the fun colors and patterns! Throw in some of the fun stickers and my layout was complete.

Challenge Three: Banner Fun

This was a hard challenge for me, because we had to use a banner on our layout. Now, anyone that knows me, knows that I don't DO banners. I have always struggled to use them on my layouts, so I knew this one was going to give me fits. However, I did some surfing over at Two Peas and Pinterest and found the idea for this half circle banner. I then grabbed a favorite picture of Mr. Toby, added the October Birds of a Feather kit, and the layout was complete.

Challenge Four: Life is a Journey - Let's Celebrate It!

This was a pretty easy layout for me to complete. Of all the journeys that I've taken in my life, and will take, being a wife and mother is the most important one to me. So, I pulled this picture of my kids and dh, grabbed the August Birds of a Feather kit and a Pagemap sketch and went to town!

Challenge Six: The Year You Were Born

This was a recipe challenge. I had to use four pictures, five different papers, eight of my favorite embellies (I went with flowers) and a one word title. I used pieces from a Scrapbook Circle kit and then added pieces from my stash, too. A Pagemap sketch helped me finish the layout.

Challenge Eight: Birthstone Monochromatic Layout

For this challenge, we had to pick our birthstone, or the birthstone of a family member, and create a monochromatic layout based on its color. I lucked out because my birthstone is the garnet....I LOVE the color red....and the October Birds of a Feather kit had some of the perfect papers and embellies needed for the layout. I added these super funny pictures of Toby (taken by Miss Taylor Quinn) and the layout was complete!

Challenge Nine: Make a Wish

For this challenge we were asked to create a layout about something that we wish for, right now. I had several ideas, but decided to go with my dream house. So, I scanned a copy of the house that I would love to someday have out at the land, pulled out another Pagemap sketch and grabbed more of the October Birds of a Feather kit.

Challenge Ten: Party Lyrics

On this last layout, we were given a selection of Birthday songs to chose from, then had to create a layout based on the selected song. I picked "When I'm 64" by the Beatles and then grabbed a favorite layout from one of my favorite artists over at Scrapbook.com, Lucy E. I loved playing with all the Crate papers and embellies....this is one of my favorite lines!

Well, it's been storming and raining tonight, so I'm off to grab a blanket and do a little reading before bed. Have an awesome night! Oh, and by the way, don't forget that the True XoXo Blog Hop is still going on until October 20.

It's a True XoXo Blog Hop!

2011-10-13T06:30:00.003-04:00

Happy Thursday and Welcome to the True XoXo Blog Hop! If you have been following the hop, you should have been directed here from Kimmy Jaster's blog. If you are just stopping by for a visit and want to join the Blog Hop, just hop on over to the True XoXo Blog and start at the beginning. Then follow the links on each lady's blog, through to the end.

Now, if you do decide to Blog Hob with us, there are a couple fun prizes up for grabs. The BIG prize (this one will go to one lucky winner who visits each blog AND leaves a comment) is the True XoXo Guest Design Team spot for December! This means that the winner will have access to the True XoXo facebook page and will get to play along with us for the entire month of December! Also, I am offering up a little prize of my own. One lucky winner will win a $10 gift certificate to A Cherry on Top! In order to be eligible for this prize, you just have to leave a comment for me :)

Now, for this Blog Hop, each of the True XoXo Scrap Chicks was to challenge one of the other ladies on the team. For my challenge, Ms. Kimmy challenged me to create a layout using products for ONLY three manufactures. So, I grabbed the current Birds of a Feather Kit and went to town! I used products from Jilliebean Soup, Crate Paper and Imaginisce. I then grabbed some random pictures of our new puppy, Mr. Toby....and went to town!

Here is my finished layout. I loved layering all of the different papers and patterns in this kit, and the Crate chipboard pieces were so fun to layer and use. Add lots and lots of ink to the mix and the layout was complete!

Thanks so much for visiting my blog and for participating in the True XoXo Blog Hop. To continue the Hop, just head on over to Maria Otake's blog, our September Guest Design Team member. Remember, if you finish up the Hop...that is, you visit each True XoXo Scrap Chick's blog and leave a message (along with the XoXo blog) you will be entered for a chance at the December Guest Design Team member spot. And...to add a little spice to the Hop, for any layout/project that you complete that is based on a team member's challenge or layout, we will throw your name in the hat for an additional chance at being our December Guest Designer. Be sure that your project/layout is linked the the Blog Hop post over at the True XoXo blog, under the Blog Hop post.

Off you go, to Ms. Maria's blog. Before you leave, if you like, I'd love to have you add yourself as a follower to my blog. Have a great day and I hope you enjoy the rest of the XoXo Blog Hop!

Thanks so Much for all the Birds of a Feather Blog Hop Participation! And the Winner is.....

2011-10-13T06:24:00.002-04:00

Good (Early) Morning! Today at noon is the start of the XoXo Blog Hop, so I hope that you will all join us for that. Let me tell you, I've had a sneak peek at the other ladies' layouts/projects and all you Blog Hoppers are in for a treat!

Anyway, before that happens, I want to go ahead and get a spot for the winner of the Birds of a Feather Blog Hop winner. I haven't picked my winner, yet, but hope to do it later today. So, look for an update to this post later this afternoon or early evening.

Okay, now please wish me luck. I have to go on a field trip with my 8th grade class, and since they are a trying group....it should be an interesting day! Have a great Thursday!
**Okay, I used the un-scientific method of asking Mr. Kaleb to help me pick a winner. I asked him to pick a number between 1 and 19, and he went with 7. This means that Jenelle is the winner! Congrats, Jenelle!!! Please send me your email info and I will get your GC info out to you! Thanks so much to everyone that visited my blog during the hop and played along with us!

It's a Birdie Blog Hop!

2011-10-07T07:30:00.004-04:00

Happy Friday and Welcome to the Birds of a Feather Birthday Blog Hop! Hopefully, you have been directed here from Ms. Krissy's blog. If, you are just visiting (and weren't directed here from Krissy's blog), please join us for the complete Blog Hop. All you have to do is start Here, and visit each of the girls. Please note, at each blog you will find a special BOAF badge with a word. If you visit each of the blogs (in order) and write down the words from each of the badges, you will complete a special birthday message. That message could help you win an AWESOME Bella Blvd prize package provided by Birds of a Feather Kit Co.!!!

Since Amy is celebrating the first birthday of Birds of a Feather Kit Co. we were asked to use a Birds of a Feather kit (current or past) and create a Birthday Themed project. I decided that I wanted to use the yummy July kit (full of lots of Cosmo Cricket and October Afternoon) to create this layout for Kaleb Michael. Since Kal's birthday is in June, these pictures were perfect with the summer-themed kit. I started with the October Afternoon background paper, found in the paper add-on kit (I LOVE lined ledger type papers) and then built the page around it, using a Sketchy Thursday sketch as guidance. I decided to ink all of the elements using my black Dew Drop, to help give everything a little extra pop. The journaling was done straight on the background paper (See? Just one reason I LOVE ledger paper!!) and I used the OA journaling tag and mini alphas to create my title. Because the mini alphas were a little large for my tag and what I wanted to say, I simply trimmed them down to the perfect size.

And a couple of close ups. I love to layer my elements, and these OA tags are perfect for just that, along with the Kaisercraft flowers (yep...I love to use flowers on all my pages, even ones for my boys).

And here is the title tag. I love using alphas on my layouts, and these OA alphas were the perfect size for what I needed.

Finally, since this is part of the Birds of a Feather Kit Co. birthday celebration, I've got a present for one lucky person who comments on this post: a $10 gift card to A Cherry on Top! Since we are cropping all weekend long, and since the challenges are due by the 12th, I will post my blog winner around the 13th. You do not have to be a follower of my blog, but if you like what you see, I'd love for you to stick around and become a follower.

All of the Birds of a Feather Kit Co. crop challenges and games can be found in the forum . The grand prize is going to be a kit of your choice! To add to the fun, the boutique will be having a BIG sale this weekend, too!

If you've made your way through the blog hop, you'll want to keep going so that you can be entered to win a prize package of Bella Blvd products, valued at $50! You'll need this word to add to your collection for the mystery quote:

Now, you'll want to hop on over to Karen's Blog to continue with the celebration. Enjoy the rest of the crop, and I sure hope you will join us over at the forums for a weekend full of scrapping, games and fun!

2011-10-04T17:07:00.007-04:00

Happy Tuesday! We are super busy tonight, but I wanted to take a minute to share a couple of my current layouts.

This first layout was for the September Birds of a Feather Kit Co. Photography challenge. We were challenged to scrap a layout about our town and what it is famous for. Anyway, I took this picture of one of the signs found throughout our town. I then used the September Scrapbook Circle kit. I had so much fun just playing with the fun papers and alphas on this one.

This next layout was created for the October Birds of a Feather Kit Co. color challenge. The colors we were asked to use were a perfect match to the October Birds of a Feather kit, so I used it to create this layout. I also used a sketch from Sketchy Thursday. Again, I had tons of fun playing with this one!

Okay, time to head off to soccer practice and Zack's soccer game. If the high school boys' team wins tonight, they will be the SCOL champs for the third year in a row! I'm super excited/nervous, especially since Zack is only a freshman.

Have a wonderful rest of the day!

2011-10-02T21:24:00.004-04:00

Good Sunday Evening!

I just checked in over at Scrapbook Circle Kit Club, and was thrilled to see the new October kit reveled! When I saw the kit, I was reminded of crisp clear autumn mornings and flea market Saturdays.

Check out this month's kit:

Included Patterned Paper

Pebbles Fresh Goods Simple Joys
Pebbles Fresh Goods Window Display
Lilly Bee Memorandum 9 to 5
Jillibean Homemade 6 Bean Barley Pearls
Fancy Pants School Days No.2 Pencils
Lily Bee Memorandum Whiteboard
Lily Bee Memorandum Time clock
Crate Farmhouse Cross Stich
Crate Random Textile

Included Embellishments

Pebbles Fresh Goods Embossed Masking Tape Stickers
Studio Calico Scrap Pad
2 Elle’s Studio Today Tags
(styles will vary)
Pink Paislee Sawdust Wood Alphabet
Shabby Chic Crafts Chevron Journaling Tag
(colors will vary)
Elle’s Studio Red Pennants Embellishment Page
Aqua Twine
Scrapbook Circle Printable

See? I told you it was a yummy kit! I can't wait to get my hands on this kit!

Well, time to get things ready for the upcoming week. Why does it seem like the weekends just fly by me? At least I have a crop to look forward to this coming weekend ;)

2011-10-02T16:49:00.006-04:00

Okay, I just had to share what I did this weekend. I went shopping and picked up a few things for Mr. Toby. Along with some mini tennis balls and chew sticks, I picked up this:

Okay, I always swore that I would NEVER have a little dog....and I would NEVER have an animal that I dressed up...but to be honest, Toby gets so cold in the morning, so I wanted to get something that help keep him a little warm. And, since I'm all into being honest...I had to go with the skull sweater because, well because it was just so darn cute :)

Okay...off to do a little more scrapping. I can't wait to share some of my new creations with you. I am going to be doing two blog hops this month, so there will be lots and lots of excitement going on this month :)

2011-10-01T07:52:00.003-04:00

Happy Saturday and Welcome to October! Can I just say that I totally love the fall season and I love everything about this time of year :D

Since it's the first of the month, that also means that today is the reveal of the October XOXO newest challenge. This month was so fun because we were challenged to grab inspiration from Instagr.am Now, I'd never heard of this App, and since I don't have an IPhone, was totally in the dark about what it all meant. However, once I started searching online, I was able to find lots of inspiration from the tint of the pictures. And, that led to my layout. I pulled out some cardboard from a past Birds of a Feather kit, tore it, spritzed it with white paint and threw on some mist. Then, I grabbed my stash of Sassafras Lass papers and embellies and went to town. I love how everything came together for this particular challenge.

Now, here are the rules if you want to play along with us over at the True XOXO Girl challenge blog:

The idea is to find inspiration, or scraplift, any of these layouts. Color, design, subject or wording - you may find inspiration in any or all of these. Enter as many times as you like.

Show your layout on your blog, and link its specific post in the comments section. -or-
Put your layout in your favorite gallery if you don't have a blog, post in comments. -or-
or Mister Linky is working below - yay!!

We'd love to know what inspired you, if you have time to write a little about that.

Layouts are due Oct. 31st, midnight your time.
The team will vote on their favorite and the winner will be announced November 5th.
Winner will be our November guest design team member; she will be invited to hang with us in our super secret True XoXo design team Facebook group during November, find out how XoXo designers get their inspiration and will have a layout posted for December blog entry.))
Winners are eligible once every three months.

2011-09-27T16:06:00.004-04:00

Happy Tuesday!

I just wanted to remind you guys of the September True XOXO Lipstick Chick challenge. There are still a few days (three, to be exact) to pick a favorite layout and lift. And remember, the October challenge will be up and live on October 1!

Also, the design team is working on a Blog Hop for October. The gloves are off behind the scenes as the girls challenge each other. All challenges and layouts will be posted at the start of the blog hop, OcToBeR 10th, so stay tuned!!

2011-09-22T06:32:00.006-04:00

Good Morning, All!
I'm sitting here with Mr. Toby on my lap, and decided it was time to share some more pictures of this little cutie. He's been with us only two and a half weeks, but he has quickly wiggled his way into all of our hearts.

(See? Just look at that face!)

(And those EARS! Can't forget those super cute ears!)

One of his favorite things to do....sleep, and sleep just about anywhere that someone will hold him/baby him :)

Have a GREAT Thursday!

2011-09-21T09:17:00.010-04:00

Happy Hump Day!!
I have to admit, we've been super busy the past few weeks, and that has made the weeks just fly by me! I really can't believe that it's already Wednesday! And do you know the best part? I have a soccer free weekend coming up, which means LOTS of scrappy time (especially since the weather man says that it's going to be cool and rainy all weekend - perfect scrappy weather :D )

So, I am just checking in because I want to share the latest kit from Birds of a Feather Kit Co. When I saw this kit yesterday morning, I was thrilled! It just screams fall, apples, back-to-school and pumpkin patches, to me! I love this time of year, and this kit is going to be PERFECT for all of my autumn pictures.

So, without further ado....here is the September Birds of a Feather Kit:

Now, if the kit isn't yummy enough, here is a look at the extras that you can buy:

There are Two Embellishment Kits (LOVE them both)

And then there is the extra patterned paper:

So, if you love the kit and extras as much as I do, just hop on over to Birds of a Feather Kit Co. and pick one up!

Have an awesome Wednesday :)

2011-09-20T21:30:00.004-04:00

Happy Tuesday Evening!
We had a busy night, tonight, with Kal having practice at 7pm and Zack having a soccer game at 7pm. We got everyone where they needed to be without a hitch, and the boys' high school team pulled off another shut out victory!! Woohoo!!

Anyway, I decided to share some of my newest creations with everyone, since I just love how they turned out! I've discovered a LOVE for Simple Stories papers/lines, and *think* that I may need to order some more of their lines....especially Elementary (now to find some place that isn't sold out of that particular line!)

So, this first layout was created for the sketch challenge over at Birds of a Feather Kit Co. I used the Baby Steps line from Simple Stories (which I actually bought for a whole other subject) and had to use these super darling pictures of our new family member, Toby.

This next layout was created for the September Crop challenge over at From Here 2 Scrapternity. Again, I used more of the Baby Steps line and pictures of Toby. The sketch comes from Sketch Savvy, another new sketch site to me (and anyone who knows me, knows how much I LOVE sketches).
Okay...time to go and get everyone in bed and see if I can stir up some mojo to maybe start another layout. I'd love to work on the current sketch over at Sketchy Thursdays.
Have a wonderful week!

2011-09-11T22:36:00.008-04:00

It's late (for me, anyway) on a Sunday night, and I am watching football and enjoying the quiet of the house. Everyone is asleep and I have a few moments to relax and prepare for the upcoming week. Our fair break is over and that means that everyone heads back to school tomorrow. I have to admit...it will be nice to get back into a routine, and hopefully get the new puppy into a routine, too.

I did manage to get some scrapping done with week, and wanted to share before heading to bed.

This first layout was created for the September sketch challenge over at From Here 2 Scrapternity. This month's sketch is from a new favorite sketch site of mine, Sketchy Thursdays, and I decided to stretch the sketch over two pages. The pictures I picked were of Zack's very first varsity soccer goal. I was thrilled to get the pictures, especially since he's only a freshman (and let's face it, I've never been able to get a shot of him making a goal).
Close up of the Left Side:
Close up of the Right Side:

This next layout was create using the current Sketchy Thursdays GDT Challenge and the September Birds of a Feather Journaling challenge. I was really challenged with the colors, and pulled lots of different paper lines for this one.
Here is what we were asked to use as inspiration (btw...I just love the idea of the votive candles in the apples, in a wooden bowl!):

And here is the layout I created. I did a layout about my sanctuary...my scrappy desk.
This last layout is for the September Stash Challenge over at Birds of a Feather. I had SO much fun with this layout! We had to use our stash of alphas, and let me tell you...I have a TON of alphas. I used a Scrapbook Circle kit (I am in LOVE with Simple Stories) and had lots of fun playing with the title treatment. This layout was also inspired by a Sketchy Thursday sketch. This is a picture of the three kids on the first day of school.
Okay, I am off to finish watching the Cowboys vs. Jets (go Cowboys!!) and do a little shopping. I have my eye on some more Simple Stories products ;)
I hope you have a wonderful upcoming week!

2011-09-07T16:32:00.005-04:00

Good afternoon, All!
I just wanted to stop in and share some pictures with everyone. Several weeks ago, a friend brought this darling little puppy to a soccer game. I fell in love with him on sight, but Jon was having NOTHING to do with him. Well, I kept on him and kept on him and finally wore him down. I told him that this little guy could be my anniversary, Christmas and birthday present, all in one :D

So, here is the newest member of our household, Toby! He is a Yorkie, but was the runt of the litter. Currently, he is just one pound four ounces, and won't grow to be much bigger.

This next picture is of Toby in Zack's soccer bag. He jumped in there all by himself. I have a feeling that he's used to these bags ;)

And this last picture is of him sitting on Zack's back. For some reason, he likes to crawl up there and rest. Of course, Zack doesn't really mind, either.

Can you tell that I'm going to have lots of puppy pictures to scrap?
Have a great Wednesday :D

2011-09-07T10:14:00.005-04:00

Happy September!
We have survived the first 12 days of school and are currently on our Labor Day/County Fair break. Add to that some awesome fall-like weather and I'm loving life!

Today I have two layouts to share. The first one is my September DT layout for XOXO. The current Birds of a Feather kit was PERFECT for the challenge we were given, and I was eager to use all that yummy Echo Park Victoria's Garden goodness :D I also used a Sketchy Tuesday sketch for this layout. The pictures are of Miss Taylor that I took on the first day of school 2010.
So, head on over to the XOXO blog and see all the wonderful inspiration for this month. While you're there, check out all the awesome new changes to the blog and challenges.

This next layout is my first September challenge for Birds of a Feather. This challenge was the color one and the minute I saw it I knew it was perfect for the Echo Park "Splash" line. To create the layout I used inspiration from a layout over at Scrapbook.com (PamFSU29). I actually loved playing with this grid design :) I used lots of random pictures of the family in the pool.
Okay, off to do a little laundry, cleaning and hopefully, some more scrapping!
Have a wonderful Wednesday!

2011-08-28T17:21:00.005-04:00

It's another lazy Sunday at the Harper household. I woke up with a nasty headache, so have laid low most of the day. However, I did manage to get a layout finished. I love working with Basic Grey...somehow it always just comes together for me :)

First off, here is today's layout. I used more of the August Birds of a Feather kit for this one, adding some Recollections flowers and Out of Print chipboard that I purchased to go with the kit. This layout was created for the Photography challenge over at Birds of a Feather.
This is a picture of Miss Taylor with a yorkie puppy called Tim. Let me tell you...I would LOVE to have this little man as part of our family! Too bad I can't convince husband.....

This next layout was created for a scraplift challenge over at Birds of a Feather. We had to pick another board member to lift, and I went with this beautiful layout by Kayla:

I loved the sun burst design of patterned paper in the background, and couldn't wait to give it a try. So, I pulled out my stash of Basic Grey and went to town. I have to admit, it's one of my current favs.

Okay, off to rest some more and hoping this headache goes away real soon. Have a blessed Sunday and wonderful upcoming week!

2011-08-27T09:49:00.007-04:00

Good Saturday Morning!
I started back to school on the 15th, so things have been pretty crazy around here. Add to that Zack starting his season with the boys' high school soccer team and Kal and Tay starting soccer, and it's been a total whirlwind.

However, I woke up to a soccer-free weekend and decided that it was time to catch up on the blog, scrapping and in the house.

Since I started back to school, that means that the kids did, too. I can't believe how fast they are growing up on me!

Here is Zack....our freshman (and yes, that was so hard to type!)

Here is Kaleb, our fifth grader.

Here is Miss Taylor Quinn...our third grader.

And Finally, all three of them, together.

Okay, I'm off to do some much needed cleaning. Being gone all week sure takes a toll on the housework. Hopefully I will be able to share some new layouts later this weekend!
Have a wonderful Saturday!

2011-08-12T09:30:00.006-04:00

TGIF, Everyone!
I have a ton of stuff on my to do list today, but before I jump in with both feet I wanted to post a couple of my current layouts.

This first layout was created for the color challenge over at Birds of a Feather. The color combo was PERFECT for the August Birds of a Feather kit...which I'm totally in love with, by the way.
I've wanted to do a layout using this Jeremy Camp song for a while, and somehow it all came together for this challenge.
This next layout was for the August Sketch challenge over at Birds of a Feather. Here is the sketch that we used:
Here is my layout. I loved using this fun 100 Days of Summer line from Simple Stories. This is a picture of Miss Taylor taken back in 2004. She was running through the Slip & Slide with her brothers....and LOVING IT!

This last layout wasn't created for any special challenge. One day, Taylor and I were headed to Walmart and she was looking for shapes in the clouds. Then, out of the blue, she started talking about how clouds are created. I love how she looks at the world! I did used the August Birds of a Feather kit for this layout. I did add the white lined paper from my stash and the journaling block. Everything else came in the kit.
Okay, time to get off and work on some stuff for school. Hopefully I get back to scrapping later tonight! Have a wonderful Friday :)

2011-08-11T13:34:00.020-04:00

Happy Thursday! August has been a somewhat crazy month, and I've been trying to soak up as much of the summer sun and vacation time as possible. It's hard for me to believe, but I head back to school on Monday and the kids follow me on Thursday. *Sigh*...it just doesn't seem possible that my summer vacation is over.

So, I have been doing some scrapping this month, too. One project I wanted to finish before heading back to work was this mini album. I still had lots of wonderful It Takes Two products from Amy over at Birds of a Feather and the scripture stickers led me to this idea. I went through and covered the pages with the two different papers, then surfed through my pictures for ones that I felt fit with the scripture stickers. I used the journaling spots for the stickers, and simply cut the stickers apart to get them to fit onto the spots. I then searched through my stash and added flowers, ribbons, etc. I have to admit, I really like the final product.

Title Page and Finished Project:
Page One: I just used random pictures of the kids on this one.

Page Two: This picture was taken, several years ago, at the church where my in-laws were married.

Page Three: I took this picture of Kal last summer. I love this boy!

Page Four: Each Christmas Eve my mil puts together a devotional for the kids. This is one they did several years ago....I have to say, one of my favorites.

Page Five: These pictures were taken at my in-law's 50th wedding anniversary. Jon and I had just celebrated our 16th anniversary the day before.

Page Six: Miss Taylor Quinn right after she had her ears pierced.
Page Seven: A recent picture of me. Not many of these in my photo album.
Page Eight: These are random pictures taken two years ago.
Page Nine: My Zachary Grafton. I can't believe he's a freshman this year. BTW...I love these metal wings from Tim Holtz.
Page Ten: One of my favorite pictures of all three kids, taken at Thanksgiving.
Page Eleven: This is a picture of my grandpa with my kids. He's always been such a wonderful Christian man, and I thought this scripture was perfect for him.
Page Twelve: This is my mom's dog, Riley, looking at the window with Kaleb Michael.

Okay, off to do a little laundry and cleaning. Hope to share some new layouts with you in a little bit! Have an AWESOME Thursday!

2011-07-31T14:04:00.012-04:00

Happy Blessed Sunday!
I have been working on some Faithbooking this weekend, and wanted to share my creations with everyone.

Amy, over at Birds of a Feather, asked me to work with some of this It Takes Two product to see what I could create. At first I was unsure because of the background designs, but once I threw myself into the whole process, I was amazed at how easy everything was to use!

This first layout is my favorite. I totally love the background colors and the scripture. Wanting to keep the background heart, I printed out the three pictures of the kids and Jon, and layered them within the heart, itself. I then went looking for ribbon and flowers. The flower spray is from Prima and is something I've had for a while. I added the purple rose (again, from Prima) and some rhinestone bling. To finish it up, I took a scripture sticker and cut it apart to fit into the journaling spot.

This next layout was the one that really pushed me to try some new things. I loved the colors, but it was hard to match the exact colors. So, I misted the background paper with white paint and then found bazzill that matched. I misted the cs, too, then went over the cs with Shimmerz (angel wings). I've had this Shimmerz for several years, and was amazed at how easy and fun it was to use. I just painted it where I wanted, using my paint brush to get just the right amount of coverage.

The picture is one I took of the kids and Jon this past spring. I thought that it was perfect with this scripture. I layered the picture under part of the scripture (which I fussy cut) and then took another scripture sticker and fit some of it the butterfly and the rest on a journaling spot. I dug in my stash for more Prima flowers and leafs to finish out the layout.

The third layout was created using a picture of my dd, taken on Christmas Eve, back in 2002. She was just a month old, and again, I thought it was perfect with the scripture on the background paper. Loving the design on this one, too, I stayed with the heart. I went ahead and fussy cut some hearts from the background paper (under the picture) and used them to layer with the other chipboard hearts. The chipboard pieces were also covered with paper cut from under the picture. The KC wooden flower/flourish element was painted white and then covered with more Shimmerz. I added a couple of Prima flowers from my stash, along with some ribbon.

This last layout was pretty fun to create. I used this picture that I took of the kids last week. I added the stitched circles to help mimic the background pattern. I then found some cardstock to use as the bracket and the journaling spot. I went ahead and added more Shimmerz to the cardstock, to help it blend in with the paper. I then added some white doodles and cut apart another scripture sticker to add to the journaling spot. Throw in some more Prima flowers and leafs, and the layout was complete.

Okay, it's another HOT and HUMID day here in southern Ohio, so I'm thinking it's about time to hit the pool (again). Have a wonderful Sunday and stay cool!

2011-07-30T09:40:00.006-04:00

Just a quick post today. I really am trying to be a better blogger, and the summer time is the best time to get into any kind of habit :)

Anyway, I just wanted to share the major home improvement project going on at my house, right now. See, when we moved in almost 16 years ago, we immediately discovered that we had a wet basement. The old part of the basement (the original cellar) has a weeping wall, and the front part (newer section) has water coming in from several different places. We tried lots of waterproofing products, but nothing helped. So, this summer, Jon decided to tear up the yard, down the side of the house where the water comes in at, and fix the problem. So, we started with a huge hole, that uncovered some cracked cinder block that the past owners knew about, but never fixed. After about a month of this huge hole sitting there, Jon finally moved forward with the trench. Let's just say that when he decides to do something, he goes all out!

Here are some pictures of this ongoing project:

This is day "two", that is, the day that he finally decided to move forward from the hole. Note, Kal was right down in the hole with Jon, "helping". Actually, he did a great job.

This is the next day. I have to say, I am impressed with the amount of ground Jon can cover. Please note, Smokey is now King of the Dirt :)

And these pictures were taken yesterday. Jon and Zack finally made it to the other corner of the house.Now, here's hoping that we get this project finished before everyone heads back to school on July 18th!

Have a great Saturday!

2011-07-27T20:41:00.012-04:00

Happy Hump Day, All! I just wanted to take a few minutes and share some of my latest creations. This weekend was the Housewarming crop over at Birds of a Feather and I am so happy that I was able to finish all eight of the challenges.

This first layout was created for a get messy challenge. I had several false starts, and ended up using lots and lots of mist. I took these pictures of the kids back in 2004.

This next layout was completed for a distressing challenge. I love this line from Bo Bunny and felt that it was perfect for this heritage layout. I inked and distressing all of the paper.

This is the first layout I created for the distressing challenge, but since this AMAZING Sassafras Lass paper is comes this way, I felt like I was cheating. However, the layout was perfect for these pictures of my antique (and new to me) sewing cabinet and 1942 White Westinghouse Sewing Machine.

This was the hardest challenge for me. We had a recipe, and the recipe included a banner and a tag (along with some other things). Here's the thing. I don't do tags and I don't do banners. I don't really like banners and struggle with both. This layout actually took most of Sunday to complete. I used these pictures of Miss Taylor from 2004. I had never scrapped them because she wasn't looking at the camera, but thought they were perfect for these papers.

This layout was created for a challenge where we had to do a layout of an inanimate object. I love doing these types of layouts, so the only real challenge was what subject to scrap. I had taken these pictures of my classroom last week and decided they were the ones to use. I also used the current Scrapbook Circle kit for this...the Simple Stories papers and embellies were perfect!

This layout was for a challenge where we had to use a color that we seldom use for scrapping and we had to fussy cut (which I love to do!) I went with purple as my color...hardly ever scrap with it but love it...and then fussy cut all of the elements on the page from some Basic Grey Wisteria papers. These are more older pictures of Taylor. She loves that swing at my mom's.

This layout was created for the sketch challenge. I found this quote over at Pinterest and knew I had to use a paraphrased version of it on a layout for my oldest. Zack has such a natural talent for the game of soccer and I want him to know that I support him in his dreams to play as much and as long as possible. I went pretty basic with this one and only used a touch of soccer themed paper.

This layout was done for a layout about what we did this summer. I immediately thought of all the time I've spent in the car this summer. Usually, I go home the last day of school and hibernate for the summer, hiding away from the world. However, with all of Zack's soccer stuff and all of my teeth issues, plus the garden and Wally World runs, I've spent more time in my
Denali then I have in my pool!

This last layout was created for a Go Big Challenge. We had to use a picture that was at least 5x7 or larger. Since I love to use big pictures, so another easy one for me. I used some of the yummy new Out of Print papers and embellies from Basic Grey, these pictures of my kids playing in the rain from 2006 and one of my favorite Michael W. Smith songs, "Let it Rain".

I hope everyone is having a great Wednesday!

2011-07-23T09:28:00.002-04:00

Just a quick reminder:

There are still a few days to head over to XOXO and pick a layout to lift. If you get one finished and linked to the blog by the end of the month, you are eligible for a great prize.

Also, if you are in the mood to scrap, head over to Birds of a Feather for a Housewarming Crop. There are several challenges posted by the new DT and you have until midnight on Wednesday to get your challenges completed (how great is that?)

Okay, off to finish a layout and then figure out the rest of the day! Have a great one, and if you are living somewhere with all the oppressive heat and humidity (like me) stay cool!

2011-07-21T23:16:00.040-04:00

Happy Friday Eve!

I've been working furiously on my Project 12 layouts. I am happy to say that I have totally finished my layouts for 2010! And, I only have to do February and I will be caught up with all of my Project 12 layouts for 2011.

I have to say, this has been a wonderful project, and I've loved looking back over all of last years pictures. The journaling part was also pretty simple. Add to that the fact that you are given a sketch to follow and it makes for a super easy project.

Okay, here is my 2010 Project 12 Reveal:

January: I used some favorite Bo Bunny papers on this, glitter, (on the snowflakes and on the background paper and grey trim)

February: I had fun using the Making Memories items on this one. From the pp, to the glitter paper (so glad I FINALLY found a way to use that) to the frames.

March: For this month, I used more from my stash. I've had that flocked paper and patterned paper for at least a year. Again, so glad I found a way to use them.

April: For this month, I used a Polka Dot Whimsy kit. I would have never used those papers on a normal layout, but they just seemed perfect for this project.

May: For May, I again dug into my stash. I used lots of old paper, cardstock (which I seldom use anymore), trim, flowers and lots and lots of rubons.

June: June was perfect for some Basic Grey. I love this company and this project has been a wonderful way to dig into my stash of BG and just go to town.

July: Again, lots and lots of Basic Grey! I love how easy this layout was to create and love that this month had room for lots of pictures.

August: For this month, I went with some fun new Jillibean Soup items. I REALLY love the colors of this line!

September: For this month I grabbed a kit from Scrapbook Circle. I've been holding on to this one (mainly because I didn't know what to do with it), and it turns out that it was perfect for the month of September.

October: Ah...I have to say, one of my favorites. I just LOVE this Teressa Collins line! The colors are amazing and working with them was so easy!

November: This is my other favorite. I started out using some papers from the November Birds of a Feather kit club. Lots of distressing (inking) and of course, Prima flowers.

And Finally....December: Another month that used lots of pictures (which was good because I had a ton from my December Daily project). I grabbed my stash of Girls' Papier Tinsel and Twig line and had tons of fun putting this one together.

I have to admit, that I didn't follow every single sketch to the "T", and not all of my layouts look alike. However, I'm okay with that...because that's my true scrapping style. I've also loved using lots of my stash and working my way through some of my extra kits that have been laying around, just waiting for the perfect layout.

Okay, it's now Friday morning and I have an early morning date with my son and soccer conditioning...so I'm off to bed!

2011-07-17T11:10:00.009-04:00

Happy Sunday! I've had a super busy couple of days, trying to get our garden all figured out. Let's just say that this year has been a major learning year for us, in terms of gardening. I didn't realize, but it's been 11 years since we had a garden, and there are many things I've forgotten. So, I have started a garden journal (which I may turn into an altered book....I know, totally shocking) so that I know WHAT to do next year.

In between all the weeds....and tomato staking....and bean plant hunting (what DOES a lima bean plant look like, anyway), I have managed to do a little scrapping.

This layout was created for the journaling challenge over at Birds of a Feather. I had so much fun using all of the journaling spots (one of my all time favorite embellies) and also used papers and alphas from the July BOAF kit.

This layout is for my best friend. These are her two daughters, and I knew the minute I saw it that I had to do a layout for her. So, I used it to create this for the color challenge over at Birds of a Feather. Can I just say that I love these Sassafrass Lass papers and embellies? The distressing it AMAZING!

I created this layout just because :) I found the quote over at Pinterest and knew I had to use it on a special layout for my dh. This pictures was perfect, because even though he doesn't like cats, he let's me have them, let's Miss Gizmo (in his hands) sleep with us, and even shows them love. See...he's such a great guy! I used a Page Map sketch for this and also used pieces from the July Birds of a Feather kit.

This layout was completed for the current Stash Challenge over at Birds of a Feather. We had to use rub-ons, and even had to alter several embellishments using said rub-ons. I ended up making the butterfly by placing the rub-on on a pp and then cutting it out. Then, I placed two different rub-ons over the cream flowers. I then tucked in some green leaf rub-ons and finished with a #5 rub-on on top of the green button.

This last layout was created for the current Sketch Challenge over at From Here 2 Scrapternity. It was a double, and the minute I saw it I knew it would be perfect for some soccer pictures.

Okay, time to get off the computer and see about getting Kal and Taylor all packed up for a few days with their grandparents and VBS.
I hope your Sunday is blessed!

2011-07-15T10:23:00.009-04:00

Happy Friday!
Wow, I can't believe that it's already July 15th...and I head back to work on August 15th. Guess I need to really enjoy the summer days that I have left!

It's been a busy week in the Harper household. Kal's baseball season final came to a close with tournament play. Kal's team was in fourth place (out of five) and had a game scheduled for 5pm on Monday. It got rained out, so we were back on Tuesday for a 6:15 game. The game before his went int 13 innings and Kal's team didn't take the field until almost 8pm. Because of that, they only played an hour and then had to go back Wednesday. They ended up winning the first game on Wednesday and turned right around and played the first place team...kind of a double header. Well, they beat the first place team! This put them in the Championship game, which was played last night....and they won! I was so proud of my little player.

During this excitement, Zack was away at his first every resident soccer camp, up at Ohio Wesleyan College, in Delaware, Ohio. Since I had to pick him up yesterday, I missed Kal's game, but did get pictures of him receiving several awards.

All of the players were placed on World Cup teams and they played each other all week long. Zack's team came out on top. Here is a picture of him and his team picking out their hats.

Next, he was picked by one on his coaches to receive a Coaches' Award because he was such a strong defender and never complained when asked to be a defender...even though his first love is being a striker. He received a pair of shin guards for this award, but since they were size small....and he wears a size XLarge, we traded them in at the end for a bag.

Finally, Zack was also picked as the Camper of the Day for his attitude and play on Thursday. I didn't see him receive this award, but he did get a great pair of sweet spots.

I also got a couple of other pictures. This first one is of Zack with four of his team mates from the Pride. They all attended camp together. Unfortunately, two of the boys won't be playing with the team in the Spring of 2012, so this was a last time all together.

Nicholas K., David H., Nick S., Kevin H. and Zack

And finally, before heading the hour and thirty minutes south and home, I took a picture of Zack with his loot. Gotta love the idea of him putting any kind of hat on that hair....hehehe

And, even though it's been crazy, I have managed to do some scrapping this week. In fact, I have several challenges and a few Project 12 layouts to share, but will load them later today.

So, for now, have a WONDERFUL Friday!

2011-07-07T13:00:00.005-04:00

Happy Thursday, All! I just wanted to take a few minutes to make a quick post.

First of all, the July XOXO Lipstick Chick Challenge went live this morning. So, feel free to pop on over there, pick a layout and lift away! The entire team did an amazing job with the list we were given.

Here is my July XOXO layout. I used the awesome July Sketch over at Birds of a Feather to help with this one. I often struggle with sports pages, mainly because I think most of the sports themed papers are pretty cheesy, so I downloaded the pictures of the soccer balls and then printed them out on photo paper. These are all action shots of Zack at his last soccer game of the season, on June 11.

I'm also working my way through the other July Challenges over at Birds of a Feather. So far, I've done the sketch challenge (above) and ended up creating two layouts for the technique challenge. For the technique challenge, we had to create our own background paper AND couldn't use any patterned paper, anywhere, on the layout (yea, I can hear you gasping even as I type!) I actually ended up with two layouts for this challenge, mainly because I couldn't decide with idea to run with...so did both :D

For this first one, I just used a TH mask and white paint, then fussy cut the design and tucked the picture underneath the cut part. I then journaled on the large picture, using lyrics from one of my all time favorite Michael W. Smith songs.

The second layout I used these LYB doilies and four different colors of mist. I then added lots of scrap lace pieces and used pictures of Miss Taylor on her first day of Pre-K (preschool).

2011-06-30T10:23:00.007-04:00

Good morning, Thursday....Good morning, All!
I can not believe that today is the LAST day of June! Summer vacation is quickly flying by me, and I feel like I am often on the sidelines watching it flash by me! It's been pretty crazy for us this month, which is not usually how our June's run. I'm kind of hoping July is a little calmer, but I'm kind of doubting it.
Anyway, I wanted to stop in and make a quick post. My hope is that by the end of the summer, I'm a much better blogger (I can always hope, right? :) )

Okay, two things to share today. First of all, the new July kit is up for sale at Birds of a Feather. This kit is so full of bright summer colors and scenes; perfect for all the summer pictures I know we all take this time of year. The kit includes products from such manufacturers as Cosmo Cricket, October Afternoon, Girl's Paperie, K & Co, Webster's Pages, and Kaisercraft.

You can get a full list of all the yummy goodness in the kit: here

My next quick bit of news also deals with Birds of a Feather. Amy has decided to add a DT of three creative, energetic, innovative, positive, encouraging, committed, reliable papercrafters . The call is open until July 10th. You can find all the necessary information about the call: here

Finally (guess I have three things to share...hehehe), I did get a little bit of scrapping done last week and over the weekend. Of course, not as much as I wanted, but it's a start.

This layout was created for the color challenge over at Birds of a Feather. I used the June kit for this one. This is a picture of Kaleb Michael taken back in 2002.

This layout was created for a challenge at From Here 2 Scrapternity. We had to use a large element on our layout. I took these pictures of my family on Father's Day.

This final layout was completed for a Telephone challenge over at Scrapternity. It was so fun to see how the original layout changed.

Okay, I am off to do some laundry, do some cleaning and maybe, just maybe do a little scrapping. Have a great last-day-of-June!!!!

2011-06-23T11:31:00.008-04:00

Well, it seems like even though I'm off for the summer, I'm not getting a whole lot of scrapping accomplished (umm...yea, not loving that stat at all).
Anyway, I have managed to work on the June challenges over at Birds of a Feather (well, still working on the color one).

This one was created for the journaling challenge. I had to use one of the provided titles for my layout. This is a picture from out at our land...where our house will eventually be built.

This layout was created for the sketch challenge (using a sketch from Prima Build-a-Page). I also used the March Birds of a Feather kit. I have to admit, these MLS papers have always scared me to death, but now that I've worked with them some, I'm like them more and more. This is a picture of my best friend's sweet new baby girl.

This layout was created for the stash challenge. We were asked to use a mask to create a background for our layout. I then used some of the new Sweet Threads from BG.

This last layout was from the ad inspiration. I was so happy to finally find a use for this very old Tinkering Ink pp. I also had fun playing with a mask for my picture.

Aside from the June challenges over at BOAF, I've managed to work on a sketch challenge for From Here 2 Scrapternity. This is the June sketch challenge over there, and the sketch was originally from Creative Scrappers...one of my all time favorite sketch sites!
This is an old picture of my dh and dd, taken back in 2005.

And, one last challenge to share. I created this layout using a sketch from the SAS blog. I had fun using some leftover Twig and these fun pictures of my family from our pool (where we tend to spend 90% of our summer)

Well, time to get back to cleaning. Hope you have a great Thursday and thanks so much for stopping by!

2011-06-17T15:48:00.002-04:00

Wow, I can't believe that it's been a month since I last posted! To say that these last few weeks have been hectic is an under statement! As soon as school was out, Zack had two weeks of Health (9-11/12 each day for two weeks) so that he won't have to take it in high school. Then, this week we had Challenger Soccer Camp for six hours, Monday through Friday. Add to that, Kaleb's baseball games and we've been running around like crazy!
Plus, I've had teeth issues...cracked teeth that needed filled, pain, pain and lots of pain....and then finally, an un-planned root canal! Thank goodness I'm starting to feel better. Now, here's hoping my mojo finds its way back home...I miss my scrapping.
Before I go, I just want to remind everyone about the June challenge over at XOXO. The new DT has been picked and the new layouts are up for lifting!
Have a great Friday!!

2011-05-04T08:40:00.006-04:00

Happy Wednesday, All!
I can't believe just how fast the days/weeks are flying by me. I just checked the calendar and we only have 15 days left in the school year....*THUD*....

Anyway, not much scrapping for me this past week. We've been running around doing lots of soccer. This week is proving to be just as busy, with soccer, baseball and a choir concert. To top it off...Zack is playing in the State Cup this week/weekend, so not much scrapping for me on National Scrapbook Day :(

Even though I haven't been doing much scrapping, I do want to share a layout that I worked on over the Easter break. My mother-in-law reminded me of this story on Good Friday and I knew I had to create a layout for my oldest, Zack.

Here is the journaling/story, which I typed out and then printed on photo paper and attached to the back of the layout:
Back in the spring/summer of 2001, Grandma Sue was very sick. She spent many, many months in the hospital, and for a while there, the doctors didn’t expect her to live very long. During this time, Zack was only four and Kaleb wasn’t yet a year old, so they didn’t get to see Grandma Sue very often. But, Zack did understand that she was very sick and we spent a lot of time praying for her.
One spring day, after a rainstorm, we were all outside playing. Zack looked up, saw a rainbow and pointed it out to us. We stood there for a while, admiring the rainbow when Zack spoke up. He told us that we needed to send the rainbow to Grandma Sue…so that she would see it and get better. After all, rainbows come from God, and God could make Grandma Sue all better. Jon was so touched by the comment that he had to call Grandpa John and tell him all about it. Grandpa John then passed the story on to Grandma Sue.
Little did we know the impact that the words of a little boy would have on the life of his grandmother. As it happens, Grandma Sue got to see the same rainbow, and there was a picture of that same rainbow that showed up in the newspaper the following day. This picture then went with Grandma Sue to all of her following hospital visits and was a constant reminder of the faith of a little four year old boy.
To this day, rainbows hold such a special meaning for Grandma Sue. Like Noah on the Ark, she sees them as a token of God’s Promise, and they remind her that sometimes we just need to have the faith of a child.

Hope it's a great one!

2011-04-27T16:02:00.006-04:00

Happy Hump Day, All!

I finally have a few moments and wanted to share the remainder of my projects using the May kit from Birds of a Feather.

Aside from the 9 layouts I created, I was also able to alter this shadow box for my mom (it's going to be her Mother's Day gift). I have to admit...I'm not much on altering items, but really liked the way this turned out. Of course, I had lots of yummy Jillibean Soup papers and embellies to help with the process.

And a couple of close ups:
Now, the last items I created for four cards. I have to admit, aside from being altering challenged, I am also card making challenged :D However, I did have fun making these...once I got into the process (the first cut was the hardest...hehehehe)

2011-04-22T20:50:00.035-04:00

Happy Good Friday, Friends!
We spent the evening with my in-laws, eating and having a wonderful devotional. This year the devotional revolved around the book Heaven if for Real. If you haven't read this book or know anything about it, I HIGHLY recommend that you check it out.

Also, Ms. Amy has shared my DT layouts over at BOAF, so I can finally share them on my blog (so excited!) I was able to create 9 layouts, four cards and an altered project with this awesome kit and all the add ons. This was my first time working with Jillibean supplies (they've always scared me in the past) and now I can't wait to get my hands on some more! And of course, the LYB Twig collection is just amazingly beautiful!

So, settle back and get ready to see what I created :)

Just You: I've seen these hearts used on other layouts online and in magazines, so when I saw this Jillibean paper I knew I had to fussy cut those hearts. And, thus began this layout. I used older pictures of my middle child, Kaleb.

I Have the Memory of a Gnat: I found this title on a layout in an older Scrapbooks Etc. magazine, and KNEW I had to use it! I have the same memory problem, and felt it would be perfect for a BOM. I loved working the bright orange cs and Jillibean Gruyere Cheese pp. I added lots of the Jillibean die cut tags and journaling spots, and then mixed and matched the Jillibean and Belle Blvd. alphas. LOVE that green Bazzill Just the Edge Perfectly Pleated Cardstock and the wide ribbon, too! A couple close ups:
Fast Friends: This is my oldest and my mom's new puppy, Riley. I took this picture the day that we finally got to meet her, and she really seemed taken with Zack (and him with her...lol). For this layout, I used Jillibean Cornstarch pp. I cut the circle and then used the opposite side for the bottom piece. I added some LYP corrugated flowers, ribbon, sugar pick and more of those awesome Jillibean stickers and fussy cut hearts.

And a couple of close ups:

She's a Bird Killer: This layout was totally inspired by one I saw over at Scrapbook.com. Once I saw the title and the LYB Twig...I knew I had to lift the layout for my own bird killer, Gizmo. I used only one piece of LYB pp for this layout (which totally helped me stretch this kit) and then added the LYB frame and chipboard (large bird)...then fussy cut the branch, leafs and smaller birds.
And a close up:

Sweetness: I loved playing with this layout. I used some cardboard from the February BOAF kit and used white paint on it. I created the water distressed flowers (using a tutorial from Gabrielle P. over at MCS). I did throw in some bling from my stash, then fussy cut some leafs and added the corrugated bird.

And a couple of close ups:

What a Life: I used this Jillibean Leeks pp for this layout about my 6 pound skitty (scared kitty), Lady Jade :D The pp just seemed the perfect colors for her, and I was able to pull in the greens because of the green in the picture. I created another water distressed flower for this one, fussy cut some more hearts and snagged more of that Bazzill trim.

And a couple of close ups:

Remember I Love You Bunches: This is a layout of my middle child, Kaleb Michael, holding his baby sister, Taylor Quinn. I loved the bright yellow of this Jillibean Creme Fraiche paper. I used one half of the file folder as a mat, added the Jillibean Bean Blossom and then layered more of the awesome Jillibean die cuts and stickers.

And a couple of close ups:

This...This I Want to Always Remember: This layout was created using LYB Twig papers. When I saw this picture of my middle child, Kaleb, I knew it was perfect for these papers. I loved using the frame as a title block and added some older Prima flowers from my stash...they worked perfect with the LYP corrugated leaves, so I threw some of those on there with some older bling. I finished off the layout with some Jillibean twine.

And a couple of close ups:
A Perfect Pair, Like Oreos and Milk: This is my husband and my daughter (taken several years ago). Let's just say that they are often WAY too alike for my sanity :D Anyway, this was the last layout I created for the kit, and finally used that Jillibean Dry Mustard Powder pp. I used more of the awesome die cuts and stickers, Bazzill trim and corrugated shapes.

A close up:
Okay...storms are getting ready to roll in and Blogger is giving me fits...so I'm off for the night. I will load the rest of my creations tomorrow.
Have a great night, all!

2011-04-21T10:54:00.005-04:00

Okay, I just wanted to share some exciting news. I was asked to be a Guest Designer for Amy over at Birds of a Feather kit club! If you haven't seen Amy's kits, you need to head over there now and check them out. I received the May kit, and I've had so much fun playing with all the goodies. And just to let you know how much is in each kit, I have been able to create 9 layouts and one altered item...using just the kit and the add-ons that she sent me!!!

Here is the May Kit. As you can see, it's a fun mix of Little Yellow Bicycle and Jillibean Soup, with some Bazzill basics thrown in for good measure :)I can't share my creations with you just yet, but will get them posted as soon as I can. In the meantime, you can always head over to BOAF and check them out for yourself. Oh, don't forget...she offers add ons to each kit, and this time around I HIGHLY recommend the Jillibean die cut sheet ;)

Happy Thursday, All!

2011-04-16T17:52:00.004-04:00

Happy Saturday, All!!!
It's been a rainy one here in southern Ohio, and the soccer game for this afternoon has been re-scheduled. So, I've been doing lots and lots of scrapping!

My inspiration today? Why, it's all the awesome birthday crop challenges posted over at From Here 2 Scrapternity! We are celebrating 5 years and there are ten awesome challenges to get your scrapping mojo flowing!

Here are two of the challenges I've finished:

I used the last major pieces from my January Birds of a Feather kit for this one. I've loved working with these papers. I even tried another banner...even though I don't really like them.

On this layout I used the new Hello Luscious line from Basic Grey. Can I just tell you? LOVE IT!!!! I then added some old Prima bling flourishes and some old TH grungeboard to finish the look.

2011-04-14T12:54:00.003-04:00

April XOXO Lipstick Chick Creation

I wanted to take a minute and let you all know that the April layouts are up and ready for lifting over at XOXO. Remember, this is a super simple challenge. Simply pick a favorite layout, lift it, post it on your blog and link it back to the XOXO site. At the end of the month a favorite is picked for a super fun prize package!

Here is my creation for April, using a list of supplies that the XOXO girls created ourselves. I had a ton of fun with this, using lots and lots of older stash.

Remember, this challenge will run until the end of the month, so come on over and grab some inspiration :)

2011-04-14T11:16:00.009-04:00

Wow...it's already the middle of April and I'm still trying to figure out where March went! I always know that the end of the school year flies....but this year it seems to be going extra fast!
We've been super busy in the Harper house....mainly because of Zack. We had the Washington DC trip (AWESOME time), soccer training, soccer games and a soccer tournament.
With everything going on, you would think I wouldn't have a lot of time to scrap, but that's not true. In fact, I'm proud of just how much scrapping I HAVE accomplished.
Of course, participating in several online crops and working through challenges over at SAS have helped me along.
Here are just a few of my current creations (may take a few days to share them all...lol)

This layout is of my Great-Aunt, Millie. She died young from breast cancer and I've always wished that I could have met her. I soooo love this line from Echo Park!

This layout was created for a SAS sketch challenge. Can I just say that this line from Crate is one of my absolute favorites! I used random pictures of my husband, through the years. The bottom one is when we were dating, then there is one of the boys (taken in the hospital on Father's Day), one of him with Taylor at Thanksgiving 2002 and the last one was taken this past Christmas.

I created this layout for a Journaling challenge over at Birds of a Feather. I used a Pencil Lines sketch for this one. So much fun!

Another sketch layout for SAS. I HATE having my picture taken (such a poor self-image) but I'm hoping to get better. I don't want my daughter to have the same issues. I have been trying to use more of my stash and loved finally working with this line from Basic Grey.

Another heritage layout. This is my great-aunt and my grandmother. I "think" I'm going to add some white cs and mat each of the pictures. I used the January BOAF kit for this one...LOVE this CC line.

This layout was created for a Going Green challenge over at Birds of a Feather. I love using Prima packaging on my layouts. Lots and Lots of stash for this one!

Finally, a layout of little Miss Taylor. I finally used this awesome MME paper for a Flower Power challenge over at BOAF.

2011-02-14T09:05:00.003-05:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!

Okay, I have to admit that we don't really celebrate Valentine's Day at our house. I'm not sure why, but dh and I have never really been super crazy about this holiday. I always say I expect him to tell/show me he loves me very day....not just on Valentine's day.

Anyway, I did want to let everyone know about the upcoming Red Hot Crop over at From Here to Scrapternity. It's going to be three days of challenges, games, fellowship and fun! I sure hope you can come join us, and if you aren't a member of the board, all you need to do is sign up and we will get you activated ASAP.

2011-02-09T13:31:00.013-05:00

Okay, since I have some free time this afternoon, I decided to share some of my latest creations. I've been working my way through several challenges, over at SAS, at Birds of a Feather, and of course, at Scrapternity. I'm also having tons of fun using up my stash of kits!

Snow Day:
This layout was created using my awesome prize kit from SAS. I would have never ordered these Crate papers on my own, but have had so much fun using them! I took this picture of Taylor during one of our December snow days.

Healthy - Get, Stay, Be:
This layout was created for several resolution challenges. 2011 is the year I want to get healthy. Yes, I NEED to lose weight, but I also want to get active, eat better and drink more water, too. I created this whole layout using old BG, tags and flowers from my stash.

Him & Her:This layout was created using a sketch from Page Maps. I love this picture of my dh and dd, and LOVE this line of Christmas paper from Lily Bee (a new favorite line of mine!!!)

Identical Looks:

This is my current FAVORITE layout! I had so much fun using all the paint on this one! I created this for a stash challenge over at Birds of a Feather, and have to admit that now I'm addicted to using bubble wrap and paint on my layouts :D
This is my dh and dd (again). The picture was taken in 2006, and I was amazed at the fact that they had identical looks on their faces. And, they are still two peas in a pod!

Family Rules:

I created this layout using the January kit from Birds of a Feather. This is the first kit I've received from Amy, and I LOVED it! The papers worked so well together. This layout was also used for a Croppy Cat challenge over at SAS, and will go into my Faithbook album.

Pretty Princess:
I loved Amy's kits, so went and picked up her November kit. This layout was created using that kit. The only things I added were the flowers (yellow/brown), the trim and the overlay (corner pieces). Lots of fussy cutting on this one and I loved the Webster's Pages.

I Expect Us 2 Show Our Love Every Day Not Just on Valentine's Day:I created this layout for the Lovebird crop over at Birds of a Feather. We had a recipe to use, and I also used an older kit from My Creative Scrapbook (with lots of added alphas, flowers, bling and trim).

Love You:Another layout created for the Lovebird Crop. This was a picture challenge, and I pulled my inspiration from the colors and the fact that there were two birds in the picture. I loved using this green paper from my stash, and then adding all the black and white elements (which I pulled totally from my stash).

2011-02-09T09:27:00.003-05:00

Good morning, All! It's been a crazy month with lots of snow days, two hour delays and jury duty here in southern Ohio! I love the snow, but it sure wreaks havoc with my classroom!
In other news, the latest Lipstick Chick challenge has gone live! There are lots of awesome layouts from the DT, and the prize this month is super yummy, too!
Here is my layout for the month of February:

I was so happy that I was able to create this layout using scraps from my stash. Several of the papers are at least two years old. The picture was taken after Taylor's Christmas program in December. The title of the layout is: All Because I Dared to Believe in Love.

And, here is a peak at the prize for this month:

Our sponsor is CANDY SHOPPE DESIGNS. In order to be eligible for this prize, all you need to do is pick one of the awesome DT layouts from the XOXO blog, scraplift it, and post your version over at the XOXO blog. Easy, right?
Also, you can head over to Candy Shoppe Designs and join their BLOG HOP MEME all month long in February for a second chance at winning this prize package filled with sweetness!
Let me tell you, I've played with this kit and it is super yummy!
Okay, time to be productive. However, I will be back later to share some of my latest creations. This weekend I participated in an online crop over at Birds of a Feather and had so much fun!
Have an awesome Wednesday!!!

2011-01-07T18:56:00.004-05:00

I'm a New Lipstick Chick!!!
I was so excited when I found out that Lynnette picked me to be a part of the Lipstick Chick's challenge blog DT!!
For those of you not familiar with this particular blog, it's a scraplift challenge blog. Each month, each Lipstick Chicks creates a layout. On the 7th of each month, the layouts are posted and then you get to pick one (or more) to lift. You have the entire month to create your layout and link it back to the Lipstick blog. At the end of the month, a winner is picked to receive an awesome scrapping gift...easy as that!

Now, without any further ado, here is my very first Lipstick Chick DT layout:

Now, you need to know that this month's challenge is live, so just head on over to the Lipstick Chick's blog and browse through all the awesome layouts, pick one....and lift away!!
To sweeten the pot? This month's prize if from Sweet Peach Crop Shop!

SWEET PEACH CROP SHOP is a unique monthly scrapbook kit club that provides you with the latest and greatest scrapbook supplies. Sweet Peach Crop Shop offers 3 different kits each month: A "SWEET" Featured kit, a coordinating "Embellishment" kit and a "JUICY" Themed kit. Each kit has a perfect mixture of current trends and classic styles and will be a surprise to your senses with it's unique flavors and textures. The kits from Sweet Peach Crop Shop are purposely designed to keep your creativity flowing! Join the Sweet Peach Crop Shop scrapbook kit club today and let them help you preserve your memories!

2010-12-31T18:20:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to take a moment to wish everyone a safe and happy New Year's Eve.
I also hope that you all have a blessed 2011.

2010-12-29T18:24:00.014-05:00

Happy Hump Day, All!
We are still on Christmas break, at least until Monday, so today the kids, Mom and I headed up to Columbus to visit my grandpa. The plan was to take him out to lunch, but he wasn't feeling well, so we did a few chores for him and then headed to lunch without him.
Now I'm working on my very first XOXO DT assignment, but wanted to share this mini album that I created for my Aunt Mary. Mary is currently dealing with her second round of colon cancer. She's only 49 years old, has three boys in middle and high school and is trying to teach full time (she used up all of her days on her first fight with cancer 4 years ago). I made this little book so that she could have a little bit of inspiration on those days when she's totally down and out.
I used my Prima packages for the pages, then just added Prima journaling spots from the Fairy Flora Collection, along with journaling stickers, rub-ons and flowers from the same line. Add a little bit of trim, flowers and bling from my stash and this album was created.

2010-12-28T15:22:00.013-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful and blessed Christmas. Life has been totally crazy around the Harper household the past few weeks and I haven't had much time to do any blogging. We had school until the end of the day on the 21st, and then there were several scrapping presents that I had to start and/or finish....needless to say it was pretty stressful until Monday of this week.
Now I'm feeling the after Christmas blues and am hoping to dispel them with some scrapping in the next few days.
So, now to share those scrappy gifts that I created this year:
The first one was for my wonderful in-laws. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this year and I FINALLY got my hands on their wedding pictures. They only bought 8 of them, so I figured I would put them onto layouts. I used lots of sketches (THANK YOU, Creative Scrappers) and several of my scrapping kits to create these layouts:

Besides the album, I also made a couple of photo wreaths for my mom and my grandfather. I got the idea from a Gooseberry Patch magazine and they were so much fun to make!
This one was for my mom:
And this one is for my grandpa:

Okay, now I'm off to work on a layout. Have a wonderful Tuesday!

2010-12-14T19:21:00.005-05:00

Happy Tuesday Evening, All!
I just finished up a couple of scrapping projects and couldn't wait to share (plus, who really wants to do dishes when there is scrapping to be done?)
Between the snow day yesterday and the two hour delay today, I was able to get some scrapping done these past couple of days.
This first layout was created for a SSU class over at SAS. The class was on Upcycling scrapping packages. I have tons of pretty Prima packages, and decided that the doilies were just too pretty to pass up. I used one of them on this layout. The small doily on the side is the one from the package.
I used my December Scrapbook Circle kit for this layout and an awesome sketch from Creative Scrappers (#126):

This wreath is similar to one that I saw in a Gooseberry Patch magazine and decided to try. I used lots of old Daisy D papers on here and even threw on some Prima backing (the smaller greenish circles). I really love how this turned out and may create a couple for Christmas gifts for next year:

This final layout is for the last SSU class; Painting. I REALLY had issues with this one since letting paint fly is NOT something I'm very good at doing (OCD and all that) So, this isn't totally wild and crazy, but for me it's a start.
I created this layout for Zack. He's going to be 14 in a couple months and I can't believe how quickly the time is flying by me. I just wanted something fun and funky to reflect how I see him, and this layout was born:

Okay, I'm off to clean up the kitchen and then work on school stuff (lesson plans and grading, here I come......) Have a wonderful Tuesday night and stay warm out there!

2010-12-14T07:04:00.002-05:00

Snow Day/Two Hour Delay...yep, that's what we've had so far this week. We had snow come through this weekend, and picked p several inches of white stuff. Add to that blowing wind and freezing temps, and we were off yesterday.
Today, the snow is under control, but the temperature is only at 3 degrees...that's right, 3 degrees...so we are currently on a two hour delay.
While I love snow days, the fact that we are dealing with all of this in December doesn't bode well for us, since we usually don't have delays or snow days until later in January or in February.
On the other hand, I did get some scrapping done, yesterday. I finished my next-to-last SSU "assignment" over at {SAS} and created a photo wreath (as seen in Gooseberry Patch).
Now I just need to find some sunshine so that I can get pictures and get them posted.
Before I go, make sure you jump over to XOXO for their new December scraplift challenge. There are more awesome layouts to pick for this challenge and the prize is from Candy Shoppe Designs.
Have a great Tuesday and keep warm out there!

2010-12-09T22:06:00.006-05:00

I WON!!!
Happy Thursday, All! I just had to let everyone know that I actually won the November XOXO Scraplift challenge! I was so shocked when I found out yesterday; it really made my Wednesday so much better. I love the prize, but most of all I love the layout that I created. Thanks to all that voted for me...I'm so glad you liked what I created.
I did get a better picture of the layout, along with a close up, so decided to share it (since the first picture was kind of dark...thank you, rain!):

On another note, I FINALLY broke down and tried misting on a layout (yea...nothing like being one of the last to the party....). I love the NewSong song, "Light Your World" and wanted to use it on a layout. I got all the lyrics written...and then NOTHING would come together on the layout. I worked on that baby for three days, and finally Tuesday night out of total frustration I just pulled out a mask and some mist and just went to town. Can I just say that I now LOVE misting?!?
Here is the layout I created, inspired by an awesome {SAS}sy SSU class hosted by Nadine over at SAS:
Can I just say that the colors are REALLY off...it's really cream, brown and black, but for some reason the sunlight was not working with me yesterday.
Okay, it's after 10pm and 6am will be here way too soon tomorrow...but at least it's Friday!
Have a great night, all!

2010-12-05T11:12:00.002-05:00

Good Sunday Morning, All!
I hate to admit that I haven't had time to scrap this weekend like I had hoped. Yesterday Zack had a double header for indoor soccer, so we were gone from 10am until almost 3pm. Once home, I started cleaning the house and continued decorating. After that it was a run to Home Depot to pick up more stuff for my new scrapping desk (including paint) and then home to finally clean up my scrapping space.
Today I MUST work on laundry...but hope (fingers crossed) to get some scrapping done. I have a new scrapping order (just came yesterday) full of goodies and several layouts already starting to take place in my mind.
I do want to let you know that all of the December challenges have been loaded over at From Here 2 Scrapternity. Also, instead of a crop this month, Ms. Pam and I have decided that anyone that completes a December challenge will have her name placed into a drawing for a scrapping prize at the end of the month!
Okay...off to start the laundry. Have a blessed Sunday!

2010-12-02T12:16:00.003-05:00

Happy Thursday, All!
We are now into December, and I don't know about anyone else, but I am more then ready for some serious Holiday cheer! The house is slowly getting all decked out for Christmas (I just have a couple more rooms to decorate and ornaments on the main tree) and to make things even better, we are expecting some accumulating snow this weekend!!!
All of this means, of course, that I will have lots of scrapping time this weekend, and with my challenge folder overflowing (plus lots of new challenges over at From Here 2 Scrapternity and Scrap Attack Scrapbooking just posted for the month of December) I will have tons of mojo!
So, anyone want to join me in scrapping this weekend?

Okay, before I head off to grade more papers, I want to share some of my current favorite creations. I've been working on challenges, and sketches and SSU classes, and have created several layouts that I really love.

I created this for a menu challenge. I used the playing cards to represent my dh and I (2), my kids (3) and our entire family (5). After doing that, I knew I needed a card playing kind of title, with lead me to this one:
This layout was created for a SSU class over at SAS. The class was all about using alcohol inks. I've had some for a couple of years, but never knew what to do with them. Nadine's awesome tips helped me to get over my fear and just play. These are pictures of me and dh, from our engagement picture, to our wedding, then one taken about four years ago and finally one taken last year at Christmas.
Here is another layout created for an SSU class. This one was all about journaling. I don't ever have trouble journaling on my layouts (it has to be the English teacher in me), but often feel like I do the same thing over and over. So, I broke out of my funk with this layout and actually let the kids do their own journaling (ack....that was soooo hard for me to do) and I have to admit that I love the finished project!
I did this layout for a color challenge. We had to use neutrals and only one accent color. I loved how all the neutrals really made the accent color just pop! This is a picture of Miss Taylor back in 2004, on her second birthday.

This is a sketch from Sketch Inspiration. This is a pretty new sketch site for me, and I just LOVE all their sketches. I also had so much fun using these awesome SEI papers!

Finally, another sketch, this time using an awesome one from JJ over at SAS. I created this special layout for my grandmother. She passed away almost two years ago, and right before Thanksgiving it hit me just how much I miss her in my life. My journaling is tucked behind the largest picture of my grandmother.

Okay...my last block of the day is coming in and I'm off to expand those young 8th grade minds.
Have a blessed Thursday!

2010-11-30T15:51:00.005-05:00

It's almost December, and with the end (for the most part) of soccer I am finding more and more time to scrap. I'm also finding more and more awesome online challenges to help get my mojo back up and running!
This layout I created for the current scraplift challenge over at XOXO. This is one awesome site of super talented women, who provide amazing layouts each month for other to lift. The added perk for me this month is that the prize is an AWESOME kit put together by Ms. Lauri over at Scrap Attack Scrapbooking!!! (Can you tell I'm excited about that? Lauri always has amazing kits, and this one is no different).

Here is my layout, created using amazing layout by Nichole Brenna (and I do mean amazing!) as my inspiration. Sorry the picture is a little dark; it's been raining all day and I had to take the picture inside :(

This was my first time visiting the XOXO site, but it's now added to my bookmarks and I will be visiting every month to see the fabulous layouts that the Lipstick Chicks Design Team create!

Have a wonderful Tuesday, all!

2010-10-15T14:15:00.002-04:00

Are you ready to Crop?
I know I am, and I sure hope that I get lots of scrapping time this weekend (in between the 5oth anniversary party, soccer, soccer, and yes, soccer).

There are two AWESOME crops this weekend if you are looking for some fun. Ms. Pam and I are hosting a Fall-O-Ween crop over at Scrapternity. There are lots of challenges and games. I've seen the list of challenges, and they are AWESOME!!! The crop will run from today until Sunday, with all finished layouts/challenges due by Monday night.

The second crop is over at Scrap Attack Scrapbooking and it's a mini crop. The fun starts on Saturday and it's a Scrap Pink theme. There will be lots of awesome challenges (with a precrop challenge already posted using an awesome sketch from Creative Scrappers) and even a raffle for one AMAZING pink scrapping prize!

So, I sure hope that you can join me at one (or hopefully both) sites for some amazing scrapping fun!!!

2010-10-15T13:49:00.006-04:00

Creative Scrappers are celebrate their 125th sketch! Along with the awesome sketch, they are offering up a wonderful chance to win some prizes.

Here is the sketch:

Here is my take on the sketch. I took another opportunity to scrap some soccer pictures, since that's what my entire life is composed of, right now! I took this picture of Zack this past weekend at the Cincy Challenge Tournament. He FINALLY got to play the entire tournament as a Forward, his favorite position and he's had to work harder than ever to prove that he can play in that position.

So, if you are a sketch lover like me, head on over to Creative Scrappers and check out their celebration of sketch 125, along with all their other wonderful sketches!!!

2010-07-26T10:08:00.038-04:00

Okay....It's past time to get caught up on posting my latest creations!
Each week I've been creating a new layout for Shawn over at Nuts About Sketches, and I have to say that I am LOVING my time on her DT. In fact....I'm thinking of trying out for the next round just because of all the awesome sketches she provides! Here are my creations for Week 104 Sketch through Week 119 Sketch (which was just posted this morning) :

Week 104 Sketch:Here is my layout for this sketch ~ Having Fun at the Sacramento Zoo:

Week 105 Sketch:Here is my layout for this sketch ~ Day Trip to San Francisco (I rotated it):

Week 106 Sketch:

Here is my layout for this sketch ~ California Style:

Week 107 Sketch:

Here is my layout for this sketch ~ Our Trip to the Railroad Museum:

Week 108 Sketch:

Here is my layout for this sketch ~ At the Park:

Week 109 Sketch:

Here is my layout for this sketch ~ From Tiny Seeds Mighty Redwoods Grow:

Week 110 Sketch:

Here is my layout for this sketch ~ Summer Nights Together:

Week 111 Sketch:

Here is my layout for this sketch ~ A Day at the Lake:

Week 112 Sketch:

Here is my layout for this sketch ~ Pride SC:

Week 113 Sketch:

Here is my layout for this sketch ~ Fun Times:

Week 114 Sketch:

Here is my layout for this sketch ~ Kal's 3rd Birthday:

Week 115 Sketch:

Here is my layout for this sketch ~ My Family:

Week 116 Sketch:

Here is my layout for this sketch ~ Canal Winchester & Pride SC Soccer Camp:

Week 117 Sketch:

Here is my layout for this sketch ~ Playing in the Rain:

Week 118 Sketch:

Here is my layout for this sketch ~ Merry Christmas (2003):

Week 119 Sketch:

Here is my layout for this sketch ~ Welcome Piggy:

2010-07-07T16:32:00.002-04:00

I am such a BAD blogger! Life has been so super busy for us, and with Jon working six days a week I'm often the one doing all the running for the three kids. So, life has been a lot of soccer, camps and baseball!
Now that I'm on summer vacation, I've had more time to scrap, but find that I'm often pulled away from my desk. There's all that running around to do (practices and games) and of course, our new pool to enjoy!
I have been doing some scrapping...trying to work on challenges at From Here 2 Scrapternity and Scrap Attack Scrapping and my weekly sketches for Nuts About Sketches....and hope to share some of my newest creations with everyone really soon.
But for now...I'm off to yet another baseball game for Mr. Kaleb Michael. So, stay cool...enjoy the long lazy days of summer....and have a blessed (rest of the) week!

2010-05-10T10:46:00.011-04:00

Wow...where has the time gone? I have been so overwhelmed with life and work, and have found that time for my blog and scrapping is hard to find :(
Zack joined a select travel soccer team this spring (the Pride SC out of Canal Winchester) and while it's been the most amazing experience, it's also been a lot of time and effort for dh and I. However, Zack is having the time of his life and we are so blessed that we can give him this time with the Pride!In other news, the school year is quickly coming to an end and I have only three more weeks before summer vacation. The students are finished up on the 26 and then I have two more days...can't wait!
Now, I know that scrapping has been on the short end of the priority list right now, but I do still have my sketches from Nuts About Sketches to work on and post each week. It's been a long time since I've shared, so I'm going to do that now. Remember, Shawn has new AWESOME sketches each week and you can see them (plus what each DT member has done with the sketch) over at Nuts About Sketches.

Week 100 Sketch:
My layout:

Week 101 Sketch:

My Week 101 Layout:

Week 102 Sketch:
My Week 102 Layout (I rotated the sketch):

Week 103 Sketch:

My Week 103 Layout:

2010-03-08T17:36:00.004-05:00

Happy Monday, All!
It's the start of another work week...the start of another grading period...and only 12 more weeks of school until Summer Vacation!!!

Okay, now that I have that out of my system, I wanted to share the newest sketch from Nuts About Sketches. I loved the sketch for this week (Week 99) because it allowed me to use so many pictures (something I REALLY need to do more often).

I had so much working with this week's sketch, and decided to use some fun pictures of my father-in-law from this past Christmas. We bought him a Gilly suit, and of course had to have some fun with it. So, the kids and I created our own suit (using a l/s tshirt and felt) and had him open that before the real suit. Once he opened the real suit, he had to put it on, and before long was sporting Taylor's brand new Hannah Montana wig WITH the suit. We laughed soooo hard and him, and it was such a joy to see (especially since he had a stroke in November).

Okay, here is my take on the sketch. For some reason this title got stuck in my head and so I went with it:

Well, I sure hope everyone has a wonderful day. I'm off to get the kids ready for soccer.

2010-03-01T11:40:00.007-05:00

Hello Monday...Hello March!
Wow, I can't believe that we are already into March. It just seems like this year is flying by for me!

Well, today was the day...the day that my very first layout was posted over at Nuts About Sketches! I had so much playing with this sketch, and loved seeing what the other ladies on the team created (it's always fun to see how others interpret the same sketch).

Here is the Awesome Sketch that Shawn provided for this week:

And here is my take on the sketch. We took the kids to Build-A-Bear on the 12th of February and it was so much fun!

Okay, time to head back to work! Oh, before I forget, don't forget to stop by Nuts About Sketches and visit the new message board (once you are at the blog, check for the message board link on the left)! Have an AWESOME Monday, all!!

2010-02-27T15:37:00.002-05:00

I'm so excited to share some good news! I finally did it and tried out for a design team...and I was picked to be on the next Sketch Team over at Nuts About Sketches! I'd been working with Shawn's sketch for a while and love the fact that they are easy to use and help me to scrap more events (something I've never been good at doing up until now).

So, every Monday (starting March 1) you can see the newest sketch over at Nuts About Sketches and you can visit the message board and say "Hi!".

2010-02-08T12:41:00.002-05:00

Scrap for a Cure ~ Kit Giveaway

I have recently been introduced to these wonderful kits by a current SFAC DT member, Pam. I've been amazed at all the wonderful items she receives in her kits each month and have considered ordering some of my own.
Now I (and you) have a chance to try their wonderful kits for free! Yep....free! Diana is giving away a free kit on her blog and it's super easy to qualify for the drawing. You can check out all of the giveaway information here: {Live the Moment...}

Also, you can go to the Scrap for a Cure Website to see more of their wonderful kits:
Scrap for a Cure

One last thing...if you enjoy FaceBook...you can check out Scrap for a Cure over there and become a member of their group.

Thanks so much, Diana for this awesome opportunity and good luck to everyone who gives the giveaway a try!

2010-01-03T11:39:00.006-05:00

I'm sure many of you have already heard of this idea, but I am super excited to give this challenge a whirl!

The Project 12 challenge is simple. The idea is to create a layout on a monthly basis which recaps what you’ve been doing. Whether you took 31 photos, no photos, or 100 photos, simply choose your favorites that best described what you were doing that month, and create a layout. Now that is something I can do! I love the 365 idea...but just couldn't keep up with it.

I was introduced to the idea over at the Scrapbook & Cards Today Blog and knew right away that I wanted to do this. To make things even easier, each month Becky Flack will be posting a sketch to use with this challenge. Man...does it get any better then that?

Over at Scrapternity we've embraced the Project 12 idea and have dedicated a whole forum to this project. If you visit us over there, don't forget to check it out.

2009-12-29T14:26:00.002-05:00

Okay...so my goal of being a better blogger just didn't turn out :( It just seems like the month flew by for us and before I knew it, it was Christmas. However, I did keep up with my December Daily project and hope to get started on my album in the next day or so.

In other news, Jon and I have both been super sick since Saturday (though I'm not as bad as he is, which is a good thing since someone has to keep the house running). I'm starting to worry that he may have the flu, and just pray that the kids don't get it (trust me...I had a much milder version and it was nasty!)

Indoor soccer has been crazy, too. All three kids are playing and then Zack joined a second team, so we've had games three nights a week and a practice one night. We are in the last week of play and then tournaments start.

I hope to have some scrapping layouts to share in the next day or so. I have been doing some scrapping (mainly Christmas gifts) and will get them loaded soon.

Have a blessed, Tuesday!

2009-12-03T12:25:00.002-05:00

I'm trying...I really am! I'm determined to be more regular with my blogging, and I'm thinking that my new December Daily album will help me do just that. I did one of these last year, and loved the outcome, so decided to do another one this year. We've started an accountability thread over at Scrapternity that I know will help keep a lot of us on track.
On another scrapping note, the December Scrapternity crop is coming up next weekend (where does the time go? I feels like we just did the November one!) We will have lots of challenges and games, so hopefully you will stop by and scrap with us for a bit. The crop runs through Sunday, with all challenges due by Monday and I know that Pam has tons of awesome prizes lined up!
Okay...back to work (only a few more hours to go and then I can head home!)
Have a blessed Thursday, all!

2009-11-30T18:10:00.006-05:00

Okay...I REALLY need to do a better job of blogging! It's now November 30th and I'm just now getting back here (eyes rolling at that one!) In my defense, November has been a super crazy month for me. Indoor soccer started up and this year we have all three kids playing, instead of just Zack. This means that three nights a week we are running into Chillicothe to watch games because of course, the kids are not on the same teams (umm...yea....lucky lucky me)
Aside from soccer, Jon has been working like a crazy man and that leaves me to do a lot of things with/for the kids on my own. Add to that Tay's and Big John's birthday party and the Thanksgiving holiday and I barely have time to breath some days!
On a separate note, I got a brand new fridge this month! I've wanted this baby for three years and was stupid enough to tell Jon "no" the first time around so quickly said "yes" when he asked me if I wanted a new one.

Now, the fun doesn't stop there. NOPE, I also got a new (to me) vehicle! Jon and I were talking about it one day and he just up and found a 2006 Yukon Denali XL in Columbus. He found it on a Friday, we went and looked at it on Saturday and picked it up on Monday! And....I just LOVE this baby! So far my favorite things are the DVD player for the kids and the seat warmers (makes cold early morning leather seats toasty warm!)

Okay...I've rambled enough for now. If I find time after working on lesson plans tonight I will add some newer scrapping layouts.

Have a blessed week, all!

2009-11-01T08:43:00.008-05:00

Wow...I can't believe it's November 1st!
With everything that was going on around here, October just seemed to fly by. Now we have the holidays to look forward to, along with several birthdays.

Anyway, I have been scrapping...really, I have. Just not like I wanted to, and I didn't get a ton of layouts done in October. However, I do have a few to share (and may get a few more done today if my mojo sticks around!)

This layout was done for a journaling challenge from the October FH2S crop. It's so hard to believe that this picture was taken three years ago! Kaleb went as Clifford, Tay was Hello Kitty and Zack was Harry Potter.

I did this layout fro the color challenge at the FH2S October crop. This is little Miss Taylor in 2004. She wore a monkey costume that Robin Garman loaned us.

I created this layout while dealing with a nasty migraine. The next day I wasn't sure about it (and am still on the fence) but am keeping it as is, for now.

I created this layout for a Scrap Pink Crop over at {SAS}sy. This is Taylor back in 2003. She was just four months old at the time.

This layout was created for the Sketch challenge at the {SAS}sy Scrap Pink Crop. Again, Miss Taylor. She loves pop tarts...a love that started at a young age for her!

Okay, I have a few more layouts to share, but am going to go and do some cleaning and will get them posted later.

Have a blessed Sunday, all!

2009-10-04T20:08:00.004-04:00

The October Haunted {SAS}sy Kit Pre-Order Deal

Check out this super fun October kit from {SAS}sy!

Now, here is the deal. If you pre-order your kit by midnight PST on 10.11.09, you will receive a FREE pack of coordinating American Crafts Thickers!
Also, since October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, {SAS}sy will donate $1 from every kit that is purchased to the Susan G. Koman Foundation.

I don't know about you, but I can't wait to get my hands on this baby!

2009-10-04T12:25:00.006-04:00

Okay...I promised that I would get some scrappy stuff up before too long...and I FINALLY got some free time to get them loaded.
I did all of these for the September Crop over at From Here 2 Scrapternity. We had lots of fun challenges, and I am still working on getting to those that I haven't had time to complete.

I completed this layout for the Menu Challenge that Ms. Pam posted. I decided to do a layout for my oldest, Zack. Soccer is his passion and I journaled about that and tucked it behind the largest picture.

This layout is one for my mom's album. The challenge was Something Old/Something New. It's a picture of my great aunt. I love working with these vintage pictures!

This next layout is another one for my mom. I did it for the Apple a Day challenge. This is one of Mom's elementary school pictures.

The last layout I completed was for the Scraplift challenge. We had to pick a member from the gallery and lift her...and to make it really challenging, everyone had to pick a different member. I picked Sherry and lifter her wonderful layout (you can see it in the gallery over at FH2S).
This is what I created. I loved that I was able to use up some pretty old stash from Quick Quotes and got another baby picture of Taylor finished (hard to believe she'll be 7 this November!)

Well, I'm off to work on some more laundry and hopefully, I will be able to scrap a little bit this afternoon.

Have a Blessed Sunday!

2009-09-18T06:38:00.002-04:00

Wow...what a crazy life I've had the last month or so! School started back up in August, with me heading back to my classroom on August 17 and the kids heading back on August 2o. To add to the usual craziness, this year I'm teaching a language arts block (instead of just grammar and writing) so have to brush up on all the standards that I haven't taught in over 5 years. But the fun doesn't end there! We also purchased two new text books from new publishers...are being trained in new teaching strategies that the district has adopted....and have a new language arts coach that comes and observes us as we struggle with all the newness! So you can see, it's pretty crazy, and that's all before 4pm (when I finally drag myself home, even though school is over at 2:30) when I head home to three youngsters playing soccer and Scouts and board meetings and PTO.....and I guess you get the picture!
Anyway, I haven't had a ton of time to scrap, but have completed some new layouts and promise to get them posted some time this weekend!
Also, I wanted to remind you/invite you to the September Crop over at From Here 2 Scrapternity! It will start today and run through the weekend, with lots of challenges and games! So if you get a chance, please head over there and join us during the weekend!
Okay, it's time to go and dry my hair so I'm off of this computer. Hope you all have an AWESOME Friday!

2009-08-13T22:54:00.003-04:00

Ready for a little {Sneaky Peeky?} Over at {SAS}sy they are putting the finishing touches on their AUGUST mid-month {SAS}sy Kits and they rock! They are packed with new CHA products and extremely versatile. I love that it can be used for boys or girls…just depends on what side of the paper you use!

Additional peeks and Pre-Order information will be coming soon. This kit will debut on Wednesday, August 19th so mark your calendars now. Enjoy your first peeks…

2009-08-10T16:04:00.001-04:00

From Here 2 Scrapternity Guest Designer Call - September
So - you want to be a GD for FH2S??

THAT'S AWESOME!!

Here is what you need to do.....
READ THE REQUIREMENTS THAT ARE POSTED Here
(YOU NEED TO SIGN UP FOR THE FORUM TO VIEW AND PARTICIPATE)
FROM HERE 2 SCRAPTERNITY

Submit to us one (1) layout that you believe is the best representation of your style. It doesn't have to be your best work, but one that displays how you normally scrap.

Include a short bio (name, where you live and anything you want us to know), a link to your blog and if you want, a link to other galleries, and an acknowledgement that you read the requirements.

You can send your entry to:

FH2S_SUBMISSIONS@YAHOO.COM

We will contact the winner NO LATER than Aug 16th and announce by Aug 17th.

THANKS FOR YOUR INTEREST AND GOOD LUCK!!!

2009-08-07T10:41:00.002-04:00

Are you ready to crop?

August 21 through the 23, Scrap Attack Scrapbooking is having a {SAS}sy Birthday Blowout Crop!
Join Lauri and the new Design Team for lots of challenges, games and fun!

2009-08-05T11:32:00.009-04:00

The new August kit is up at Scrap Attack Scrapbooking and I have to tell you...it RAWKS! It's called the Nikki Sivils Kit, and the papers and embellies are awesome...just check it out:

Now, if you want this yummy kit, it's super easy. Just head on over to Scrap Attack Scrapbooking (www.scrapattackscrapbooking) and grab yourself one. While you're there, you can also check out the super fun add ons that they have put together to go with the kit!

Finally, if you do grab one of these kits, I'd love to see how you use it. Just post a comment with a link to your gallery :)

Happy Wednesday, All!

2009-07-22T10:45:00.003-04:00

Lauri has released a sneak peak of the August Mini Kit over at SAS...and, to sweeten the deal even more, they are having a special promotion for anyone that pre-orders this kit:

We are very excited about our August 1st {SAS}sy Kit! It is based around a brand new manufacturer and was soooo extremely easy to work with - you are going to love it! We've got a great special for those that Pre-Order it and reserve theirs now.

All Pre-Orders placed by midnight PST on July 28, 2009, we'll award you 150 Customer Rewards Points that can be redeemed on your next visit! That's an extra $5 off your next order!

The full debut of this kit will happen on August 1st and all Pre-Orders of this kit will ship on the debut date. *Please put "Pre-Order 150 Bonus Points" in comments to receive these points.

2009-07-21T12:06:00.008-04:00

Well, it's been a little bit since I've updated. What can I say? My life is boring...lol.

We did have a wonderful time on Saturday night. We have a friend who is from Spain. He is part of our soccer family, so to speak. Right now, he has a couple of friends visiting from Spain, and on Saturday they invited a bunch of us over for an authentic Paella dinner. It was amazing to watch them get the fire going and then cook this rice dish over the open fire. Plus...it was delicious! I mean, out of this world good (and it had seafood in it, which I don't eat)!

Luis's house provided the paella and bread while the rest of us brought other items. I did my "famous" fruit and dip plus a mixed green salad. Lori made a chocolate pie and homemade sangria (which was AWESOME...and I don't like wine) and Kathy brought an ice cream cake.
Here are some pictures I got before it got too dark:

Here they are (with some help from Kal) starting the fire:

Here they have started the actual cooking:I got this shot of everyone right before digging into the paella:
And finally...the most amazing paella...EVER!
Okay...off to do some more cleaning. Maybe I'll have some scrapping layouts to share later this afternoon.

Happy Tuesday!

2009-07-12T10:01:00.010-04:00

Some Scrappiness to Share!

Well, I've been super busy with the middle school yearbook (completing it) and soccer registrations. However, I have managed to fit in some scrapping along the way. Here are just a few of the layouts that I've completed in July. I joined the Get Scrapping challenge over at {SAS} and hope to get 10 layouts completed each month, between now and December (fingers crossed on that one...lol)
So, here are some of my July creations:

All of these layouts were completed for a challenge over at {SAS}. I have to admit...their challenges are awesome, and have really helped me get my scrap on!
Okay...off to finish another layout.
Have a blessed Sunday, Everyone :)

2009-07-11T13:46:00.002-04:00

Love a Good Mystery?

Lauri at {SAS} loves being able to offer customers some amazing deals & they love creating {Mystery Boxes} just for you! Each box is packed with fantastic scrapbook supplies for rock bottom prices! The {Mystery Boxes} are available NOW and are only available while supplies last.

This time {SAS}sy is offering 2 different {Mystery Boxes.} Since we all enjoy the "good stuff," they decided they would fill a USPS Flat Rate Box FULL of fantastic embellishments from some of their favorite manufacturers & also a dedicated Thickers Mystery Box.

Box #1 is the {Embellishments Mystery Box} and they are packed with buttons, brads, chipboard, ribbons, flowers, rub-ons and so much more! If you love Scenic Route, Maya Road, Prima, KI Memories, Love Elsie and Bazzill - just to name a few - you have got to pick up one of these boxes!

Best of all? They are loaded with over $190 in product for only $49.99!! And they will ship these FREE* of charge within the US!

Box #2 is for all those American Crafts THICKERS fanatics out there! This box is filled with at least 9 random packs of Thickers for only $25 - and they will also ship these to you for FREE* within the US!

Every Mystery Box is different and you will never receive 2 of the same items in any box! These usually go fast so if you are interested in one, don't delay. SHOP NOW!

Please note: If you are ordering other items with the Mystery Boxes you may receive your order in separate boxes. No additional discounts or promotions are valid on these since they are already greatly discounted. *(International orders will receive a discount off their shipping.)

2009-07-11T13:37:00.002-04:00

Pre-Order Primas...and a Deal to Go With Them!

Lauri (at SAS) recently added a ‘whole lotta’ Prima Marketing {Pre-Order} products to the store, if you are interested in reserving yours now. Lauri will ship {Pre-Orders} first, in the order of receipt. Plus you still get your everyday 10% off!

These products are brand new and are being released at the Summer CHA Show this year. Products are expected to start shipping around August, 1st. (The papers are not listed but Lauri also have those on order too.)

For a limited time, all Prima {Pre-Orders} over $30 (excluding shipping) will receive a $10 Gift Certificate to the {SAS}sy Store! We will be awarding these GC’s on all qualifying orders placed by midnight PST on July 18th, 2009!

Now...how's that for a great deal?

2009-07-07T12:25:00.003-04:00

Check out this wonderful July Mini Kit from Scrap Attack Scrapbooking!

Now, how would you like the chance to get on for FREE? That's right, just check out the SAS blog for all the details!
Good Luck!