life in flip-flops

First time ever...

2012-01-18T16:33:00.000-06:00

to be in a photo booth! You can tell from the pics of me that I had no clue what was going on. I'd be silly and pose... then lean forward to see the results of the picture... and it would snap it right about then. Jessica on the other hand, she seems to be a pro.

We had this made at the wedding expo.... I believe there will be a photo booth for all to enjoy at the reception. Seems Jess would rather have a photo booth than food!

It's been a rough few days, going to be a few more of them..... but there's always something that can make me smile!

Justified started back last night and American Idol tonight.
Johnny Depp might be looking for a new woman!
The Rangers just signed (as in 5 minutes ago) the new pitcher!!
My husband being brave enough to bless my heart!

See, something to smile about!

No layouts to share today... just silly fun photo booth pictures!

I'm all caught

2012-01-09T00:30:00.000-06:00

up now with blogging the remaining of my 2011 layouts. I think.
Now on to 2012.

Seems a little odd saying 2012. I can remember thinking that 1982 would never get here, and now here we are in 2012.

I'm off to a good start already. Working on layout #5 for the new year. I seemed to have had myself some much needing creative time this weekend. Using up the old kits I have been hoarding! That's always a major bonus. I'm determined to not buy any new scrappy supplies until I have made a huge dent in my stash! There have been a few things I've had to make myself use this weekend though. That old feeling of "I must save this, it's too pretty to use" has tried to kick in.... but so far, I am winning the that battle!

Wishing you all a great Monday!!

I can't seem to stand

2012-01-03T15:25:00.000-06:00

straight or still when I'm taking pictures of my layouts! I've found the perfect spot in my house to take them... and the are level and perfectly straight when I lay them down. My house is not lopsided... we had it checked! It's me. I wiggle... not like wiggle wiggle wiggle in the song... but wiggle as in teeter, old lady style!! Not cool! It's really starting to frustrate me just a tiny bit!! Hmmmm, maybe if I have a drink before, then I'll be relaxed... or just have an excuse for my teetering! (is that even a word?) At any rate, I can not get a straight picture of my layouts... and since my word for the year is embrace... that's what I'm doing.

Here are a few more layouts from NYC. These actually have me in the pics! How awesome is that. 3 years ago I looked at those pictures and thought, oh this isn't good, oh yuck... but now, I'm very happy to have them! Thank you Elaine for snatching my camera outta my hand and saying get over there! And I scrapped them with pride... cause if I look like I was a little out of sorts... well I was! I was being drug all over the streets of NYC for pete's sake!

There's also one of Serene, standing on her front porch, eagerly and not to patiently awaiting our arrival! Had she know what was about to happen after we entered her house, she probably wouldn't have let us in! Those pics will come soon! :)

and this... this is my very shy husband (hahaha, yea right!) dancing with a GO-Go girl! She was part of the nightly entertainment we had during the annual golf tournament. My sweet husband who is usually very tired after a full day of golfing! How can you not possibly love a man who knows how to enjoy himself!

Lots of layering going on here. Border punches... my new love! I really like the fun look that the pennants give a page.

It's funny the stages we go through. 3 years I wouldn't have used those pictures of me... can we say vain?? At some point I started typing all of my journaling, because my hand writing stinks... but now... I want the memories of what I looked like then... cause one day I'll think I was smokin' hot at that time.... and there is going to be a time I want someone to remember what my hand writing looked like.... so EMBRACE! (I am lovin' this word!)

and can someone tell me why the word journaling isn't in the dictionary?? Come on, it has to be a word... I use it all the time!

Have a great day people!!

It's a wrap!

2012-01-02T19:49:00.000-06:00

For 2011 that is. 2012 has begun, and I'm going to live it well!

It was a busy year, and perhaps this next one will be busy as well, but I'm going to do my best to enjoy it.

I discovered last night that I had several layouts that I hadn't yet put in an album, because I hadn't yet taken pics of them for the blog. I started to just say forget it, and then thought, nope I'll wish I'd uploaded them... so, here are some of them. Yes, there shall be more to come. I finally got back in my scraproom and created a page last night... and I'm not doing anything to mess with that mojo I feel on it's way back to me!! It's been a long time.

I'm not going to list all the supplies used... I'm just going to post and share the pictures with my friends. Some I like, some I'm not crazy about, and some I love. But they are done... and for that I am very pleased!

These are all from my NYC trip. You have no idea how thrilled I am to be getting these scrapped and in their album! Can I get a Woot Woot!! I've got to get these puppies done.... Cause let me tell you..... not only am I again doing a mini for my word of the year, but Project 12, and I took the plunge.... project life, here I come! Along with all the other 40-hundred-11 pictures that are needing scrapped. Oh, and finishing my December Daily! So, I don't have much time to be wasting, do I? I did think that this would be a great year for project life... kind of document Jessica's wedding planning as the year progresses.

So that's that group of pics.... not sure I'll get another post on here tonight. David is wanting to play his game, and since he is hard core on his diet right now, I'm thinking I better be nice and let him!

Thanks for stopping by, see you soon!

oh yea, my word for 2012...... EMBRACE!

They are...

2011-12-15T13:25:00.000-06:00

the air around me, the laughter inside me, my heart, and my soul

they are....

good, kind, loving, and important

they are.....

mine

and when something happens to one of them.... when they are in trouble and need you
when there is nothing you can do.... when you just don't understand how or what
when you are praying it's a bad dream and you will wake up

the air is gone... the laughter a distant memory... your heart physically hurts... and your soul feels empty

Today....
I'm remembering the disbelief and shock of the last few days
the pain and fear
the feelings of helplessness
how things are more vivid when you are scared
how it feels when your world comes crashing down

today I'm asking God that He replace the anger with gratefulness.... because there is much to be grateful for

we are together... we are loved.... and we will face this... as one, with the strength and courage that He gives us

hug those you love

Not the time!

2011-12-05T10:05:00.001-06:00

This is not the time to be going through a creative funk. It's awful! I've got many, and I mean many, things to get made.... before Christmas... and I've been in this mojoless, creative funk, nothing looks right, I don't like any of my supplies anymore mood for the past 2 months. Yes, 2 months!

That's really not entirely true. I've actually finished several layouts in the last couple of months. I think I'm just in denial. If I pretend Christmas isn't super close, and I don't start any of my gifts or cards or December Daily, then it will not come! Somehow, I don't think it's going to work that way.

My daughter did ask me a couple of weeks ago why I haven't been blogging. I didn't really have an answer for her other than I don't know... when I should have said cause I'm feeling blahhhh about it all, but.... it put a smile on my face. Just knowing she takes time from her day to go check my blog and misses it, that makes my heart smile!

In daughter news, she will be officially a college graduate come Saturday! We are so excited and proud of her!! Now I have to make a cake. We've also found THE place for the wedding & reception... have colors picked... making plans to go wedding dress shopping... and have all kinds of ideas for decorations floating through our heads. Pinterest is a wonderful place is it not!

Here are a few layouts that I do not think I've shared yet. I did some playing around with masks and mists. They are a lot of fun and I love how they add a little sumpin' sumpin' to your page.

Winter has definitely hit here at home. There was even snow to the south of us last night, just a little odd. Time for me to hibernate!!

Hope you are having a fabulous day... that you are all warm and cozy.... feeling inspired and creative.... and full of love during this most magical wonderful joyous time of the year!

it's happened!

2011-10-20T09:30:00.000-05:00

yesterday, I had to wear shoes. Not just any shoes, but boots... with leggings. It really did hurt my heart to have to put them on! Today is another day that they are needed. This morning, I even had to turn the heater on! Can you see my terribly sad face.... summer is over and winter is right around the corner. Almost time to pack up the flip flops and strappy sandals.

our photo shoot turned out great on Saturday. You know why, because I now have pictures of all of us together. I didn't have to plan them, or take them, or remember to hide the remote. I don't care if we don't look perfect, if I'm having a bad hair day, or if it's obvious I'm not in my 30's anymore! I don't care about all of that... the most important thing is that I have them! Forever! I can't wait to see them all!

On a side note, 5 years ago, why even 2 years ago, I would have picked apart a dozen things with these pictures... found many things I didn't like and rejected most of them... now I'm just thrilled to have them. Isn't it amazing how not only do we change, but our priorities as well.

Here's another layout for Kristen's album. I really like the sweetness of this one. She is going to have a nice album full of great memories when it's all finished. The little giraffe is too stinking cute!!

Wishing you all a fabulous day full of inspiration! :)

do you??

2011-10-08T10:24:00.000-05:00

read the blogs when you go hopping, or just look at the pretty pictures?

I wonder because I have found that the more blogs I look at, the less I read them.. which is really sad, some of them are soooo funny and can make you laugh out loud. I'm trying to read them more. You can learn so much by reading ya know!

It's a cool and windy day in Oklahoma. I hear we are getting rain this weekend, 5 inches predicted. I don't believe it! We need to get the pool closed up, but my pool boys assistant is gone to the city for the weekend.. I have a feeling I'm going to be out there tugging and pulling on a tarp. I lay odds that there is going to be some whining going on too!

Here's another layout of sweet BW. Newborn pics are just so very precious.

I did a bit of misting here, edge punching, paper layering, and washi tape! Love me some washi tape!

It is now time to get busy in the scraproom. I'm doing some re-vamping, some major purging, and hopefully there will be some creating going up in here today!

Have a fabulous weekend!

I want......

2011-10-06T18:05:00.001-05:00

someone to come mow my back yard.
my laundry finished.
to be done entering these 50+ new oil wells into the system.
$150.00 to go spend at Victoria's Secret.
to not automatically hit the snooze button each morning.
for winter to not come.
to sing out loud and no one howl.
to have a retreat 4 times a year with my peeps.
to find a happy place in my scraproom.
oh. and.
world peace.

what do you want?

I really do want to blog more... can't believe it's been 2 months and I've had nothing to say! I'd like to tell you I've just been super busy, but truth is I'm really just coming home and sitting on my lazy butt either watching tv or reading. I've just been too lazy to get up and upload a picture to the computer, then sort, the crop, then upload to blogger.. yikes, just talking about it makes me tired.. and since I think I can't post without a picture... I just kept saying "there's always tomorrow!"

Here are a couple more layouts for the baby album. Doesn't he make you just want to squeeze and squeeze him!!

Ok, now I'm off to take my David out to eat... cause it's his birthday!
and he is special.
and I don't tell him enough!

. You know what I'm talking about!

Memory Makers Magazine Blog Bounce - Ch-Ch-Ch-CHANGES!

2011-08-08T23:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the August edition of Memory Makers Blog Bounce!

You should have just arrived from Kimber McGray'sBlog. If not, you can click on the Memory Maker Magazine link below for a full list of the hop participants and start at the beginning!

Our theme this month is about ch-ch-ch-Changes! I must admit I struggled with this one a bit, but then in the middle of having a heat stroke and thinking why oh why can I not take the heat anymore...my mind suddenly turned to this months theme and an idea was born!!

I'm hoping you can read my journaling. While I tried to keep a little humor in it, it is from my heart.

My pictures aren't the best tonight, hope to retake them tomorrow.. if life will give me a five minute break! :)
Thanks for stopping by!

Your next stop is the Memory Makers Magazine blog... click here or the button below to hop on over. Thanks for stopping by my blog, and have a fabulous day!

Road Trip!

2011-08-08T14:57:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure what we were thinking on Saturday, but with triple digit temps we left for a little biking adventure. This was our first bike run with people! We normally take off by ourselves and just ride to no place in particular. I'm happy to report that we do play well with others and have been invited back again!!

Out of the group, we actually knew 3 people, well 5, but we'd only met two of them the weekend before. That would be our host and hostess. They are both two of the nicest people you could ever meet. So genuine and real, and fun! We had such a good time.

I do wish I'd gotten more pictures. I was just a little timid about going up and snapping pictures of people I'd never met before. I know, hard to believe me being timid. That didn't stop some people though... it's funny to see how some people react when they see a bunch of bikes together. Everyone was posing for a group pic up on top of the mountain, I'm standing there taking pictures and look over to see complete strangers taking pictures of us too.

This was really a great group of people! I believe we went away that night with some new friends!

This was the view in front of us....

and behind us....

on top of the mountain...

coming down...

The group before we took off...

I didn't get any after pictures...don't think I had the energy left to even hold the camera. It was a long, brutally hot day, but I'm glad I went!

Hope you guys are having a great Monday!

How many days did he say?

2011-08-02T09:58:00.001-05:00

I know this morning I heard the local weatherman say we've now had 63 days of temps in the three digits! I believe, except for a 30 minute sprinkle on the 4th of July, that is the only rain we've had since back in May sometime. I also believe now that I have figured out my sprinkler system, my grass will not be the greenest around and my utility bill will go down! One can only hope?

Have you ever driven by somewhere and seen someones sprinkler system going while it's raining.. or just right after it rained? I used to laugh at them... thinking don't you know to turn that puppy off. Well, if it had rained any this summer... I'd be one of those people. Who knew there was an A & B section to the this puppy, and that each section has 3 phases. I set it for 6am, 3 days a week. What I didn't know is that it was also going off at 11pm, 1:30am, & 4am... 5 days a week!! We are in the middle of a drought, triple digit temps, and I've got water standing?? When I discovered that, you should have seen me trying to get it all deleted before David came outside to see what I was doing. I don't know who would scare me more, him or the water police!!!

(Note: I'm really not afraid of David... he just has a way of transforming into a growling bear when spending money is mentioned!)

(Note: I should probably also mention that I know this, that he turns into a growling bear...and sometimes I make a game out of seeing how many times in a week I can transform into that bear... and yet, he still loves me so!)

Here's another layout for Kristin's album. Remember, I'm leaving all the journaling for her to do.
This little cutie loved the food table. I think the cupcakes were her favorite...not that you could tell from all the icing on her face!

A few more supplies from my out of control stash were used on this layout. You just have to love that!!

Thanks for stopping by. Have yourself a fabulous day!!

I'm Sorry.... Bi-WHAT?

2011-08-01T09:47:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday People!
(I could be Lady Gaga and call you my little monsters! But I'm sure someone would not be happy about that!!)

So, Friday I went to the eye dr. A new one... determined, I was determined! I wasn't crazy about my last one...he was a bit dry and the lady at the front desk very snotty and rather brash. (I'm allowed to say this because it's my blog!!) Anyway, I didn't care for them...but I hung in there for 3 years.... until the dr just wouldn't listen to me...and I said "poof, there goes my business"! I even took David with me! So, I begin the search for a new dr.

I like this new dr.... well until he said the dirty word...but I like him! He's young, has some personality...we chatted about photography, internet connections, the hot weather and high elec bills we are all having here, and....wait for it..... about My Texas Rangers!! Woot! How can I not love a dr who will talk about my Texas Rangers with me!

We are talking and he is handing me this little cardboard thing to read... I'm slowly moving it away from my face so I can see it better. He brings down the little cardboard thing from above and says read line blahblah... I have to lean back to see it... yep... he said you are ready for BI-focals! I just looked at him for about 3 seconds...said "oh wait a second".... doubled over in the chair and went NNNOOOOOOOOOOOOO! I looked back up at him and said..."ok, go on" in the saddest voice you can just imagine. Poor man didn't know if he should laugh or hand me a tissue.

Anyway, very long story short... my main purpose for going was to get contacts. I didn't like the kind my last dr had me in...they really bothered me. But now... I don't think I'm liking this either. Evidently, I have a astigmatism...I may even have one in each eye, I just don't know at this point! Which means, I get this different type of contact than what I was getting 3 years ago. PLUS, one contact is to see near and one to see far...and I DON'T LIKE IT! I'm squinting my eyes so bad I swear I look drunk! My BFF says just get the normal ones and use reading glasses to which David says just go get new glasses. I seriously thought about just going back to my old dr... the one I had before I moved here. He understood me..but I probably didn't have the stupid ole 'stigmatism back then!

So now, I feel drunk all day, but without the buzz, which sucks!
I could take my contacts out, but my new dr tells me it will take some getting used to, so I'm trying to give them a chance. And I'm weighing the pros & cons...well that's not true, just the pros. Contacts are a must have for the motorcycle rides... glasses seem to hide the age that has attacked my eye area. 20 years ago I didn't really like the glasses...but now the styles are so cute...and let me tell ya... I rock them puppies!

I really think though.... that I just want my eyes back from when I was in my 20's. They were firmer, no 'stigmatisms, no darkness or lines... and Jessica has them!

Here's another layout that is finished for Kristin's baby book. I've not used naked chipboard really before, but I'm liking it. I have a feeling it might just be showing up in more of my pages. We've got some punching and zinging going on here, along with some layering. This page was just fun for me!

Ok, time to get some work done, that is if I can see!
Wishing everyone a wonderful Monday!!

Simply Saturday!

2011-07-23T17:46:00.000-05:00

A nice Saturday it has been. I was up early this morning... not liking it much at the time, but up I got and hit the road. Off to a photography class... and I am so glad I went. I was actually very surprised at what I already knew. Not that I'm trying to pat myself on the back...just that some of it I'd already read 100 times and it all made sense! I think I may fall in love with my camera all over again!!

Now I'm ready to do a little scrapping. Well I'm going to go outside and play with my camera for a bit first...then some scrapping. David is recording and I need to be quiet... hahahaha.

While at the scrapbook store... yes I was at the scrapbook store and I was good! For real... I didn't even look at everything...and they were having a sale on Sizzix dies! There were several I didn't have and several of the new ones that I've been thinking I wanted, but I walked away without buying a single one!! All I bought were a few pages and trim for Kristin's baby album. I am so super duper proud of myself.

To be honest, I'me feeling very overwhelmed in the scraproom right now. I have way too much stuff and I really think it's slowing me down! I spend more time looking through things trying to decide what to use than actually using it. I know many of you can relate to this! Anyway, I've promised myself...again... no more scrappy purchases until I've made a dent in the stash I already have. Well, unless I stumble across some Washi tape! I'm pretty sure I was meant to have rolls and rolls and rolls of it!!

Here's another page for K's album! My thoughts are she can journal on the tag. I just love the little owl, even if they are so last year! If it looks like the border bits of pp are not straight...it's because I planned it that way. It didn't actually turn out the way I was seeing it in my head...but then again, what does! It's ok, I still like it!

Have a great weekend!!

On Tuesday, I think...

2011-07-19T06:00:00.002-05:00

that if you can not obtain the speed limit while driving and eating or while driving and talking on the phone....
THEN DON'T! This has absolutely nothing to do with the fact that I am not blessed in the patience department... just that I've got places to go, things to do, and Move the Heck outta my way! but, that's just my thinking!
smiley face.... smiley face!!

Here are a couple of more pages for the album I'm working on. If you are thinking hmmmm, there doesn't appear to be any journaling... that's because I'm planning to let Kristin do her very own journaling! I like that plan!

Here's wishing you all a fabulous Tuesday!

A few things....

2011-07-18T09:59:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday Morning!

These last few days I've spent some time thinking about all the people that have come and gone from my life over the last (I'm not going to tell you a number) years. I don't really know why I've been thinking about this...there is no rhyme or reason to my brain function. Anyway, there's been a lot! The people you know in school, then your first job through the 12th job...no I've not had that many jobs. Different people you date and their families or friends. It really adds up when you think about it. Some you miss and are sad that you no longer are in touch, some... not so much. I blame our busy lifestyles for this...well, that and my foot that seems to always end up in my mouth! I think instead of breast enhancements we should have 'add a filter to the mouth'! I would probably benefit from that much more!!

I've not been doing much of a job blogging of late. Somedays I'm busy...somedays I think why bother, does anyone really care, somedays I'm just too lazy to take pictures or post, and somedays I can't get David off the computer. He has a new obsession...and he is slowly getting me addicted!

I must say that I'm just a little unhappy that Casey Anthony is walking the streets today. While she might be in hiding right now, she wont always be, and if she takes just one of the offers she's been given, she will have more money than most of us! There is something seriously wrong with this picture!

I actually cooked yesterday. I think that's probably about the 6th time I've cooked since I went on strike back in April. I roasted a chicken and made us some veggies. David's back on his diet and has lost 10lbs in the last 9 days I think. He's doing so great. Then we settled in our chairs and watched True Blood. Kristen is a big fan too... Matt, well he just tolerates it.

I have been doing a little creating while I've been absent from the blogging world, working on a gift album. I always get nervous and worry while making these...and have to remind myself that the recipient is going to be more focused on the pictures and having them in an album than if the page should have had more or less embellishments! This album is for a first time mommy, a very good friend of Jessica's, who in my mind is still just 14 and should be on the ball field!

I'm having fun making the pages, but worried about making them all look different. I don't want the pages to all look the same, you know what I mean. I'm not going to list all my products. Some I've had in my stash for awhile (yay for using them) and some are from kits. I am doing better about using my supplies and not just collecting them. Could be because I am so out of room, and have you seen then new releases that are coming?

Gracious, for someone who hasn't been blogging because she thought she didn't really have anything to say.... I can't seem to hush! I hope you all have a great day.... and before I go... I have to say...

HOW ABOUT MY TEXAS RANGERS!!

note: spell check doesn't seem to be working... and sometimes I just type away not worrying about my spelling, knowing spell check will catch it...and then it comes back to bite me in the butt! So.... if you see something wrong... well, don't let it bother you too much!

Wishing you all a fabulous day!

Memory Makers Magazine Blog Bounce - VACATION!

2011-07-11T23:01:00.014-05:00

Welcome to the July edition of Memory Makers Blog Bounce!

You should have just arrived from Lisa Pace's Blog. If not, you can click on the Memory Maker Magazine link below for a full list of the hop participants and start at the beginning!

Our theme this month is vacation! While David and I have had several really great vacations in the past, this year we've opted to have a staycation! As in we are staying home. There are a few reasons that we are staying home this summer, but the main one is the year just really got away from us before we realized we'd not planned anything. Well, nothing for the summer anyway...one never knows what just might be in the works for the fall!

I had fun creating this layout. Lots of layering, some zing, and punching! I finally used my cloud punches that my were a gift from a dear friend. She may have just gotten tired of hearing me whine that I couldn't find them anywhere...at any rate, they are awesome!

(The title actually shows up better in person. Can you tell my photos were taken after the sun went down.)
Supplies used:
Cosmo Cricket's line - Salt Air
Bazzill Cardstock
Zing - Apricot, Lemon, Glacier & Powder
Stampin Up! Very Vanilla Satin Ribbon & Trim PomPom
Fiskars Cloud Punches
Stamin Up! Ink - Pool Party
American Crafts - Paperback Fabric Thickers
The Twinery - Lemondrop & Caribbean
Tags for hidden journaling

Your next stop is the Memory Makers Magazine blog... click here or the button below to hop on over. Thanks for stopping by my blog, and have a fabulous day!

Been a long time, Been a long time..

2011-07-04T10:06:00.001-05:00

Anyone know that song....
Been a long time, been a long time, been a long lonely, lonely, lonely, lonely, lonely time!

It's a Zeppelin tune...and not that I'm a huge Zeppelin fan... I just thought wow it's been a long time, then the words from the song were in my head...and now I've got a mental picture of the times David played this song..so it's probably in my head for the day!

It has been a long time really since I've been blogging. It's not actually been a lonely time...although it's been a rough few months..with lots happening. But lonely... you can't be lonely with Ozzy in the house!

I'm trying to get back into the swing of things here and thought I'd share a little with you on what I've been doing.

Remember what the back yard looked like last year... ALL the monkey grass around the pool...

Now the monkey grass is GONE! Lots of work, but it's gone!

Big difference... huge!

HaHa! Ozzy hiding behind some of the shrubs while David has the pool vacuum out.

The back yard now.... this is what I've been doing! With all my digging and mulch flying I've managed to murk up the pool a little so it's not clear as it normally is. Guess now David will be a busy man!

Meet Miss Molly! Jessica & Josh's new baby... we've got Molly & Zoey while they are out of town... lots of puppy action in the house this weekend!

And Tommy! Here's Tommy the Toad in his house!

This is pretty much what I've been doing since March. It's almost finished, and I have to say I'm sure glad!

Hope you all have a fabulous & safe 4th of July!

Memory Makers Magazine Blog Bounce - It's A Guy Thing!

2011-06-13T23:01:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the June edition of Memory Makers Blog Bounce!

You should have just arrived from Wendy Smedley's Blog. If not, you can click on the Memory Maker Magazine link below for a full list of the hop participants and start at the beginning!

In honor of all the dad's out there, we are scrapping for them this month! I think that is just an awesome idea!!

I've done my layout about my Daddy, and his garden! If you knew my dad, you'd know that you can't think of him and not think of all his fresh vegetables too. I laugh when people ask how my dad's garden is...because to me, it's not a garden... it's the north 40 full of tomato plants. He plants 100's each year. Works in it all week, even hiring some of the local kids to help, and then 3 days a week takes his veggies to market and sells them. Many a Saturday I've spent selling at the market. It really is fun, and a great way to spend some time with my parents. I actually have what I call Daddy fresh veggies in my kitchen right now! YUM!

Don't those tomatoes just make your mouth water?

Now it's time to hop over to Susan's Little Scraps!

Thanks for stopping by!

Memory Makers Magazine Blog Bounce - Remember Me!

2011-05-09T23:01:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the May edition of Memory Makers Blog Bounce!

You should have just arrived from Stamping with Melissa's Blog. If not, you can click on the Memory Maker Magazine link below for a full list of the hop participants and start at the beginning!

This month's theme is Remember Me. I've picked a photo of my grandparents, Robert & Dean. The photo is from December 13,1942. I believe it was taken shortly after they were married. They've both been gone for several years now, but never ever forgotten.

Supplies:
Papers - Stampin Up! & Graphic 45
Embossing powder & inks - Stampin Up!
Numbers - Grungeboard
Flowers & embellie centers - Prima
Ribbon - Stampin Up!
Fiskars Punch

Now it's time to hop over to Lisa Pace's blog!

Thanks for stopping by!

Going to the Chapel..... and we're gonna get......

2011-04-25T09:51:00.001-05:00

Hello Cyber friends! Hope you are all having a great morning. As usual, there's a bit too much going on and blog posting seems to be down on the list...but this morning, I'm moving it on up!

I do have some exciting news... but no picture at the moment to go with it. Miss Jessica's birthday was 2 weeks ago, and it seems Dearest Joshua worked for weeks planning out this crazy fun scavenger hunt for her. He had her going from the gopher park, to apartment entrances, a bowling alley where she had to go inside and ask for her rose and clue to the next place, out to the airport, until at her final destination he awaited her, with the most beautiful engagement ring! Can I just say that I love modern technology! While she is texting or calling me during this adventure saying where she's been... Josh is texting me telling me what's next. I was able to feel like I was a part of it, even though I was 60 miles away! Can I also just say, that not only did I keep the knowledge of the ring a secret for a month...but so did my mother! We are so excited and thrilled for them both!

I was a busy girl over the weekend. I made full use of my 3 days off. I got some much needed sleep. Two of those mornings, after DH was gone, the puppies and I stayed in the bed sleeping until almost 10am. That's late for me! With all the worries going on the last few weeks and the trips back and forth to hospitals, not much sleep was being had in my world! So anyway, I did get in the scraproom... and while I'm not so sure I'm loving these layouts... they are layouts. It may not be my usual style, but I don't really like for everything to look alike anyway! I am excited however about creating pages from the first scrap retreat that I went to!

Plus, I've got a little scrappy something I've been working on with a couple of friends for a few months now... I'm really excited about it and can't wait to tell you all!

For now... welcome to Bra Free Weekend! A wonderful place to giggle, scrap, giggle some more, and not sleep much!!

All layouts were created using Stucio Calico kits! WooHoo!

Thanks for stopping by. Have yourself a fabulous day!!

It's Official, I've lost it!

2011-04-24T20:45:00.000-05:00

My mind that is! Let me tell you what a moment I just had. It's not a Sr moment either... it's a failure to engage brain moment! So, you know how on the right side of blogs it will have a list of blogs you follow.. how some just have the name of the blog, some have a date last updated, some with a title of the blog, just various different things... on mine it has the blog name, title of last post, and date it was posted. As I was reading down it I saw that one blog, two blogs, and then a third blog all said 3 days ago under them... I'm sitting here freaking out what's going on in the world that all 3 of these blogs would have a post titled "3 days ago"!!! It took several, and I do mean several seconds for it to click just what it was that was going on in the world 3 days ago!! Are any of you wondering what what?? HA! They all 3 just simply posted 3 days ago! It wasn't their post title. Talk about a Bless My Heart moment!!

It has been a long last few weeks. Work has been extra busy, springtime has hit which has caused me to be outside working in the yard, my mom has had some issues, and the last place I've been, has been in my scraproom! Sad I know, but it happens. Getting back in the scraproom was the easy part, feeling inspired was an entirely different story!

This layout has pictures from when David and I went to New Mexico with my family a couple of years ago. While there we went to the hot air balloon show. It was so cool! this layout might also look a little familiar to you, it should. I used the same sketch that was for my January month on Project 12. Why you ask??? Good Question!! That would be because as always I waited until the last minute to get January started and then rushed. Not paying attention to the rules I just picked out some pictures and started cutting them the required sizes... then I realized I was to use pictures from the actual month of January 2011, not just whenever!! So, I thought since I already have the pics cut this size, why not use the sketch! I mean really, the layouts will be in different books... and it's not like after someone has looked at 262 layouts they are going to say oh my... layout #131 is the same as # 178!

This is my February Project 12 layout. I've had it done for a few weeks, just failed to post it. (Did ya doubt me Melissa??) Thought I better get it up before next week when March is due.

Hot Air Balloon supplies came from "Paper Poppy" kit club.
February 2011 supplies from the March '11 "Little Black Dress" kit club.

YES! I'm getting over myself and breaking out all these kits I've stock piled! About time, wouldn't you agree!!

Thanks for stopping by!!

Memory Makers Magazine Blog Bounce - where the heart BLOOMS!

2011-04-11T23:01:00.015-05:00

Welcome to the April Memory Makers Blog Bounce!

You should have just arrived from Kimber's Blog but if not, then click on the Memory Maker Magazine button below for a full list of the hop participants and to start at the beginning!

Our theme for April was ______ Blooms! What a great theme for springtime, right!

This month I used the new Dilly Dally product line by Making Memories! How wonderful is this new line! It is so full of springtime goodness and perfect for all of your spring projects. You must check out this line!

For your chance to win the Dilly Dally product line, click on the link below and "put a spring into your scrapbook designs"! It is full of all kinds of gorgeous items, including paper, flowers, stamps, and metal embellies! You don't want to miss this!
Dilly Dally Prize

For my layout I choose a picture of Texas Bluebonnets. When I see these beauties blooming, I know spring is here. This is the year I'm going to put the kids in the big middle of some bluebonnets and take their pictures... even if they are grown!

The bluebonnets always make me think of home, and home is
"where the heart BLOOMS!"

All products used were Making Memories Dilly Dally Line

Your next stop is the Memory Makers Magazine blog... click here
or the button below to hop on over. Thanks for stopping by my blog, and have a fabulous day!

Dry spell, is it over?

2011-03-20T22:17:00.000-05:00

The last two weeks have been a little dry around here in the creativity department. The mojo had left the building... but I think maybe it's back! I created not one, but two layouts today... how cool is that! Of course, I stayed out of the yard for the most part today.

My yard.... I know I'm going to just totally love it this year, but it's going to take lots of my time... and that's ok... I love being outside!

I have managed to get all of our crepe myrtle trees cut back in the last week. We've only got 12 of those babies! Did a little digging and killed a dozen wasps! I told David that I did not move in this beautiful home to have to kill snakes and wasps! Not sure if the vermin are trying to run me off, but we see who is still standing! HA!

Both layouts I made today are for Jessica's album. I'm so thrilled with the progess I'm making on it. I'm as equally thrilled with the fact that I'm pulling from my old stash and using up some of it!

I did a little stamping and even used a rubon on this first layout!

Product List:
Paper - My Minds Eye & Stampin Up
Butterfly die cut - Stampin Up
Stamp set & ink - Stampin Up
Perfect Die Cut - My Minds Eye
Journal Sheet - Bo Bunny
Flowers

This next layout is for a sketch challenge over at the Memory Makers Magazine Forum.

These pics are from a trip Jess took to Dallas with a few friends for one of their birthdays. I love love love these pics! The girls were having a good time in their room... jumping from the air conditoner box onto the bed. The pics of their faces tell the whole story!

Most everything on used on this layout is from one of my Studio Calico kits! Love them! Flowers are prima and brads are Bo Bunny

I didn't journal on either of these layouts as you can see. My plans are to let Jess do her own journaling of memories. Plus I'm really afraid I'll spell someones name wrong! Now, that would be bad!

Thanks so much for taking the time to stop by!

Memory Makers Magazine Blog Bounce- Favorite Treat!

2011-03-07T23:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the Memory Makers Magazine blog bounce!

This month I'm the first stop in the hop, so just follow the buttons at the end of each blog post. If you get lost along the way, click on the Memory Maker Magazine button, like the one you see below. You should find one on each blog post, it will take you back to the Memory Maker Magazine site for a full list of the hop participants and will help you get back on track.

Our theme for March is "Favorite Treat"! I didn't have to think long about what my favorite treat is these days. I seem to go through spells of what I am craving... and right now it's all about the Junior Mints and Vanilla Coke! I stop on my way back to work every single day and get some. Ha, one day I even thought I'd get two boxes of Junior Mints and have one for the next day... yeah, that didn't work out to well! I'm usually back in the office by about 1:45. If I still have any candy left by 2pm, it's a miracle!

I used all kinds of scrappy goodies on this layout. It was so much fun and just fell into place!

Cardstock is SU! Crumb Cake and misted with Peach Delight Glimmer Mist
Flourish in corner is Tim Holtz Idea-ology Mini Mask
Other Cardstock is Stamping Up Peach Parfait and Early Espresso
Pattern Paper is all Jillibean Soup-Vegetable juice, orange sugar, and toasted cumin
Doilie is from the baking section and misted with Key Lime Pie Glimmer Mist
Ruffle is crepe paper, misted with Key Lime Pie, then sewn down the middle and gathered to give ruffled look
Orange Flowers are Maya Road and misted with Peach Delight. They were then topped off with Prima Flower Centers and Frosted Lace Stickles
Graph Die Cuts were made with Stampin Up Very Vanilla cardstock and a Unity Stamp. I stamped one in Peach Parfait ink from SU! The other I used a Ranger embossing ink pad, Clear Embossing powder from SU! and Tim Holtx Walnut Stain distress ink.
Chipboard letters from The Paper Studio and painted with Folkart Soft Apple. The actually match much better than what the picture shows.
Sweet treats letters cut using my Pazzle and SU! Early Espresso card stock
Stampin Up! metal clip

This layout was really a lot of fun. I've been thinking for some time now about doing one on my after lunch must have, and it just fit this theme perfectly! Thanks for stopping by!

Now it's time to hop over to Francine's blog!

Kinda nice!

2011-03-06T17:42:00.001-06:00

Nothing much going on in the household this weekend... and I have to say, it's kinda nice!
We did go see Miss Jessica yesterday and take her out to eat. We were able to spend a few hours together and it was really nice. We made a quick stop at the Hobby Lobby! I picked up a couple of albums, really needed them, a picture frame, and a beautiful cross and frame for Jessica!

Here's another layout for the Sr. Album. I'm telling you guys, I will get it finished this year!

Supplies used:
Paper - Stampin Up! Presto Patterns Specialty & Sassafras for Studio Calico
Stamps - SU! Admit Set & Studio Calico
Misc Prima flowers and Felt from my older than 12 months stash!
Dies - Sizzix Owl & Tim Hotlz Ticket Strip
Purple ruffle behind owl is crepe paper sprayed with Glimmer Mist
Inks - Tim Holtz distress inks
Stickles & Imaginisce Bling
SU! Orange Corduroy Button
As always, thanks so much for stopping by and for all your comments!

Starting to Bud!

2011-03-02T15:21:00.000-06:00

As David and I were driving last night I noticed several trees that were starting to get little buds!! Today, walking to the mailbox, I noticed little springs of green grass!! How super duper exciting is that!

I seem to be dragging these days.. not sure why, but thinking I might could use some of Charlie Sheen's tiger blood! Have you heard some of his ramblings?

Here's my next layout for the Sr. Album. I actually enjoyed creating this page more than I thought I would. I was able to use my Unity Stamps for the first time and love the boots! Now I'm looking for more pages to use them on! Anyone need any cowboy boots?

Products used:
Little Black Dress December Kit
Papers: October Afternoon Schoolhouse Flashcards & Chalkboard;
SU! Cardstock
Stamps: Unity & Stampers Anonymous
Rubon- SEI
Letters- American Crafts Thickers
Ribbon- SU!

Thanks for stopping by!

Project 12 - January

2011-03-01T12:40:00.003-06:00

Here is my layout for Project 12 at Scrapbook and Cards Today.

I had some problems getting it posted last night due to our Internet being down all evening and night. Melissa was kind enough to email it to them for me, so thank you ever so much Melissa.

Journaling reads:
We spent our first New Year's in our new house. Matt & Kristin were here and we just had a nice lazy day!
Melissa introduced me to Ghirardelli Chocolate Chips. I feel in love with them and made chocolate chip cookies every week for the month!
I signed up for a photography class online.
We all met at Bill's Catfish for mom's 67th birthday!
I used skype for the first time with my imaginary friends. It helps me to not miss them so much!
I gave up farming on facebook!

Supplies used:
Paper- Stampin Up! Love Letter & First Edition DSP
My Mind's Eye Alphabet Soup Twinkle Twinkle
Embosslit Die - Sizzix Beautiful Wings
SU!- Scalloped Edge boarder punch
Fiskars Punch
Su!- Raven Trim Lace
Idea-ology- Film Strip Ribbon
Maya Road- trim
Tim Holtz- Ornamental die

**Special thanks to Kristin for the picture of her and Matt

Page Maps Challenge

2011-02-27T21:27:00.000-06:00

This layout is for a challenge at Page Maps.
This sketch just really called out to me. It was the little flag on the left side of the picture. I just thought it'd be great for a golf layout.

I had a lot of fun with this one. Used some paint, my sewing machine, a punch, and a die. Gotta love that!

Supplies used:
Quick Kuts die
Studio Calico Limited Edition Stamp
Paper - Bazzill, Stampin Up, and 'Lisa's old stash'
Fiskars Punch
Americana Paints
American Crafts Dear Lizzy "Fantastic" Thickers

It's not always easy trying to keep a layout masculine... I struggle with it. This one is a little different for me, not as much 'stuff' on it. But different is ok sometimes!

New on the kid front... Matt was named employee of the month! How cool is that!

Off to try and finish up my layout for Project 12 that is due tomorrow. Wish me luck!
Have a wonderful Monday!

No clever title...

2011-02-23T16:48:00.000-06:00

Or any clever words! Today is just one of those days that I feel like I've been going around in circles and have gotten nothing done! Every step I take forward, I end up taking 4 back! Not 2...but 4! Today I need a personal assistant! Would anyone like to apply? Only qualifications needed is you must be able to organize post it notes... cause I live by them! Pay isn't very good, but I'm sure we can work something out, like me paying you with scrap supplies!

It is a Joe Bonamassa day! If you don't know who he is... look him up. The man can play guitar! He's got a lot of the blues going on, and on today's like today, I will play "Bridge To Better Days" over and over and over! It doesn't take me long listening to his guitar playing until I'm smiling, bopping in my chair, and have forgotten all the backward steps that happened!

So, we'll just get right to the good stuff. This layout I've been trying to get created for some time now, but just kept putting it off. I was needing pictures for it, and finally just stood in front of the mirror and took them myself. I've had it finished for a few months, just haven't posted it. Although, I have now framed it and hung it on my scraproom wall. Sitting on top of the frame are my two little frogs from Lora! They just look too cute up there and bring me huge smiles!

Sorry I don't have the names of all the products used here, but I believe most of it is from my Studio Calico November add-on kit. Well not the Nothing is Impossible sticker or the Prima flowers. I'm really trying to do a better job of keeping up with the products I use.

Can I get a WOOT WOOT! Here's a layout for Jessica's Sr Album. Talk about going back in time. Most of the product used was pulled from my old stash of supplies. I did some hand cutting on this one, used the cricut to make the cupcake, have a little stickles on here. American Crafts Thickers and Glitz letter stickers. A random stamp and ribbon.

That's it for now. Hoping to finish up another layout tonight for the Sr. Album. Plus, I shall patiently be awaiting all of your Personal Assistant Applications. This might be the perfect job for a retired person. **cough cough**

Have a wonderful evening!

Gasp - I did it!

2011-02-22T17:39:00.006-06:00

I cut some of my prized Webster's Pages paper!! Not only that.. but I used some more of it as background paper! Who'd have ever thought I'd gotten brave enough to cut it! I have to admit... I was shaking a little, but I "got 'er done"!

I am seriously... I mean seriously trying to cut down on some of my stash, I've got way way way too much. I can honestly say that having this much stash has hindered my creativity. There's so much, that I don't know where to start or what to use. So, one of my self imposed challenges are to use older supplies for next 30 days to see how much I can use up! Which will mean that I may have no clue as to who some of the used product is by. I started this on Feb 18th.. so I've got until March 18th to put a huge dent in some of this stuff! Wish me luck!

Both layouts are for my moms album. Looking at these pictures tugged on my heart some. On the backs of the originals, my Grandmother (my Mama, pronounced Mamaw)had written who & where on them. Just seeing her so familiar handwriting took me back in time to sweet memories!

This layout was created using a few bits from my Little Black Dress January kit. I didn't use to much from it, only paper and the die cut. Background page is by My Minds Eye-Laundry Line collection. Love it!

Basic Grey- Curio collection small flowers.

Stampin Up- Journey stamp, punch, bigz flower die, & cardstock

Sizzix Round-A-Bout number dies

Tim Holtz tissue tape

Random material

Now this next layout... I used all kinds of scrap goodness on it!

You see my beloved Webster's Pages as the background paper.

Numbers-American Crafts

Embossed Sticker-Marcella by Kay

Gel Candy - KI Memories

Flowers - I have no idea

Buttons - No clue

Lace Doily - Not sure.. baking section at Hobby Lobby

Glimmer Mist

Now check this out. This accordion flower was actually a cupcake liner. I cut the bottom out and instant flower! Thanks so much to Melissa for sending me the how to on this baby! I'd share it... but can't find the link. I'll keep looking, but it's really pretty simple. You just cut a slit up one side, cut off the bottom round part, then start adhering the cupcake liner to a round piece of cardstock. Just play with it, after you've gotten it, I promise it'll bring a smile to your face. I also got some white ones...can you say Glimmer Mist?

Now let's look at the pink ribbon type element. That would be crepe paper...also known as streamers. It was white. $1.75 a roll. I glimmer misted it, let it dry, then sewed a strip of thread up the middle. I then pulled on one of the threads to gather the paper up and give it this ruffled ribbon look. It adds such great texture to the layout. Another kudos to Melissa for this trick too!

That's about all I have for today. I've got to bounce... it's all you can eat ribs tonight at the BBQ place.. and I think David is jonesing to go! I'm not a big rib eater **gasp** you say! How can you be a born and breed Texan and not eat ribs? It's ok... I'm not an all you eat kinda girl either!

Thanks for looking... and be sure to check back in a day or two. I've got a couple of layouts for someones Sr. Album to add! Say it ain't so!!

:) That's my smiley face.... HUGS to all!

Be warned!

2011-02-15T12:13:00.001-06:00

Because I am jumping up on my soapbox here!

It's called etiquette, rules of society, things your momma taught you! Call it what you want!

It's 2011, and many many many people do not have landlines in their homes anymore. Instead they
have cell phones. I'm one of those people, makes sense to us. Why pay for something you don't need. Or why pay for something twice.

Think back to when everyone had a land line. If you moved into your home and called to have your land line hooked up, where is one of the places you would have a phone installed? Your bedroom, right? In case there was an emergency and someone needed to call in the night.

Well, I for one, not having a land line, take my phone and put it by my bed each night... as does David. We have kids and parents, and you just never know. My phone is not left in my purse or in the kitchen, or anywhere else in my house. It is by my bed each and every single night.

Don't you think if it is too LATE or too EARLY to call someone on the telephone because it is not an emergency then they same rule should apply to TEXT MESSAGING! I mean really, it's the same thing as calling. If it wakes me from a dead sleep then you can bet it has scared me, not to mention irritated the heck out of David... and that is putting it nicely!

Honestly, am I the only one who thinks this way? Does no one else believe there should be rules and consideration? I mean just because you are up at 6am doesn't mean I am, and you wouldn't be calling me on the phone at 6am to tell me a joke you just heard.

Oh, and Bug, because I know you read this, I'm not talking about messages that I got a few weeks ago in the middle of the night from Mr. Greene. He was very worried and very scared.

Alrighty, think I'm done now. Climbing down off the soapbox!

If you were to ask...

2011-02-11T14:00:00.001-06:00

... me what one of my most favorite things about my camera is, I'd tell you it's continuous mode. (not sure that's what it's really called) I'm talking about the ability to hold your finger on the button and rattle of 10 or more photos in the span of 5 seconds! I LOVE LOVE LOVE to do that!
If it weren't for that feature then I wouldn't have gotten these photos of Ozzy in mid flight! His feet are not even touching the ground! And do you see his little snow mustache? It's moments like these that make me love him so... not the moment when I walked into my bedroom last night and found my 5.5' ficus tree turned over and leaves all over the room!

Think I may post pictures of the little darling all over the house as a reminder!

Making the most of a Snow Day!

2011-02-10T20:11:00.000-06:00

Hello Bloggers!

I hear spring is on it's way! The tv said so this morning... they actually said 31 more days! Can we have a big YEEHAW! I'm so ready! Although I am liking this whole snow day program!

Yesterday was another snow day here! I made good use of my time yesterday.. well some of it anyway. If I'd gotten back in my scraproom yesterday morning instead of yesterday afternoon who know's what I would have accomplished!

I've made a promise to myself...well more like I've threatened myself... that I will use up these kits that I have! In the last year and a half I've joined and dropped a few different kit clubs looking for just a couple that I loved...which I've found I do believe. In the process I've managed to gather up several, and I mean several kit packets. The pages below were all made using a kit from Close To My Heart. While I'm not really digging the quality of the paper, I must admit it sure made putting these babies to gather a no brainer pretty much! I've still got enough left from the kit to do a few pages, but didn't want them all looking the same page after page...so I'll come back to this kit later.

All pictures are from my NYC/CT trip 2.5 years ago. I'm determined to get these layouts finished this year!

The journaling on the memorial plaque pretty much tells the story here. These pictures were taken at Ground Zero.

Another picture from Ground Zero. The orange Whistle Warning sign at the top hung on a fence there.

My tissue tape flower. I went on a quest for colored tissue tape... not to be found here. So... not to be thwarted...I bought white and ah-ha... have glimmer mist, will color! I love the texture it gives the page. I also did some glimmer misting on the entire page.

These next two layouts were at St. Paul's Chapel in Lower Manahattan there by Ground Zero. See Bailey Ann in the picture. She is such a beautiful young girl! I've more layouts to come from inside St Paul's. It is such a beautiful chapel and you can't help but be after stepping inside the doors.

Again, the plaque tells the story, no need for journaling on this page.

Supplies:
All paper & 3D Embellishments from Close To My Heart
Notepad paper from Making Memories
Journal notes & spots from JilliBean Soup and We R Memory Keepers
Ribbon, stamps, ink from Stampin Up!
Remember this Moment stamp from For The Luv of Art
Thickers
Tissue tape, unknown
Glimmer Mist & Glimmer Screens from Tattered Angels
I'm not even knowing what has drawn me to the blue the last couple of days... but I'm not fighting it! I seem to accomplish more when I don't fight the voices!

Thanks for stopping by! Enjoy your up and coming weekend!

btw: I can't seem to get spell check to work so please let me apologize for any spelling mistakes!

Memory Makers Magazine Blog Bounce - Who Do You Love!

2011-02-07T22:59:00.007-06:00

Welcome to the Memory Makers Magazine Blog Bounce

Our theme for February is "Who Do You Love"!

You should have arrived here from Wendy Smedley, but if not, then click on the Memory Maker Magazine button below for a full list of the hop participants and to start at the beginning!

To know me is to LOVE ME! Today our Ozzy is exactly who I love, inspite of all his bad habits! Looking at that face you wouldn't think he could be anything but loveable!

There's some inking going on here along with several tickets used as embellies. I just can't seem to get enough of the tickets these days. They are ending up on almost all of my layouts. Of course it wouldn't be one of my layouts without the printed paper layering. I tryed not to, but just couldn't help myself. I did cover some chipboard in this layout, that's something I don't seem to do much of. I also used my new letterpress plate from Stampin Up!, although I have most of it hidden with the layering... but I'm loving it!

Supplies used include
Paper: We R Memory Keepers, Bazzill, Cosmo Cricket, DCWV & Stampin Up!
Bling: Paper Studio & Imaginisce ; Letters: Sassafras & Thickers
Tickets: Tim Holtz & SEI ; Chipboard: Maya Road
Ribbon: Stampin Up! ; Journaling Sprout: Jillibean Soup
I hope you've enjoyed your stop at my blog and seeing into the world of the Oz-monster!

Now it's time to hop over to the fabulous Susan's blog!

It's Time

2011-02-05T11:14:00.002-06:00

To explore new things!

That's the word I've picked out for my word of the year! That's just what I intend to do...explore new things! I'm hoping I can remember to take photo's of most of my explorations, so that I can journal them along the way.

I'm planning to explore
~new things in the kitchen! Who'd have known that after all these years of totally hating cooking that I'm finding a new love for it!
~more settings on my camera! Not just explore them, but understand them! I'm currently enrolled in an online class. How's it going you ask... well it just started and I've yet to look over the material!
~new scrappy goodness! I'm so wanting to not just stretch outside my comfort zone..but to JUMP..and learn new goodness! I'm planning to go to a retreat in TN and will be spending a day with Jenni Bowlin! That's a good start don't ya think!
~swimming! Yes swimming... I shall learn to swim this year and jump off the diving board all by myself without threatening to harm David if he lets me drown!
I'm sure there will be more as the year progresses... and I can not wait to
EXPLORE!

Here's a layout that I've done for a challenge over at All About Me . It's challenge #34, and you were to come up with resolutions, goals, or a to-do list of some sort...or share your word for the year. So, as you can see, I did my word of the year... which worked out really well for me as I was wanting to start a mini book on it. Ahhh, look, a mini book.. not something I've done until starting my December Daily... now that's exploring!

Papers from Bo Bunny, Stampin Up cardstock, My Minds Eye, & October Afternoon.
Embellies from Tim Holtz metal Live tag, Jenni Bowlin January spot, & Pink Paislee tickets
Alphas from Thickers & Ribbon unknown
Clock stamp from Stampin Up!
Flowers from Prima & Bounce Dryer Sheets! Yep that's right.. made from used bounce dryer sheets! My friend Kathi taught me how and it's totally amazing! They were covered in paint with some stickles thrown in for sparkle!

Thanks for looking! Now I'm off to try and glimmer mist some streamers. The big Super Bowl party is still on for tomorrow... and I'm still not knowing how I managed to invite everyone. Good thing I cleaned the carpets today... have a feeling I'll be sitting in the floor tomorrow!

Sunshine + Music = Fabulous!

2011-01-27T11:00:00.000-06:00

Hello Bloggers!

Ahhhh, it's a beautiful day! The sunshine is streaming in my big window here at work... have some music playing that's making me dance in my chair... doesn't get much better than this!!

Ok, have a bit of a problem here... I'm doing it again... getting too many projects going! Still haven't finished my DD... of course I started on the NYC pics, but there's no timeline for those to be finished.. it's good cause there are only about 5000 pics or more waiting in line to have some attention paid to them! Anyway, I've now started a new project...without finishing the others... for shame! I don't think it will take that much time, and only be added to occasionally.. so maybe it wont be so bad.

Here are some sneak peeks at it. Can you guess what it is?

See my little flower I made? Just a little time...some ribbon and folding... a bit of glimmer mist...and look how perfect that jewel button works on it. I've had those how long now, not knowing what to do with them! I was so excited.. I was squealing and David was crying "my ears..my ears!"

I've got a couple of challenges I'm hoping to complete this weekend, plus a special project that must be started! Then I'm going to work on ... ummmm, perhaps Jessica's album. It'd be nice to get her High school Sr album finished BEFORE she graduates college! But then, if I finished it... hmmm... what would she have to hold over me saying "you never finished mine"!! I'd sure hate to take that away from her! It would be sad...

Have a fabulous day! Thanks for stopping by!

All I want

2011-01-25T12:40:00.002-06:00

Is to be able to go from blog to blog right now and post for all the dadgum give-aways everyone has this week! I mean since I can't go to CHA it's only fair, right??? But noooooo, I have this thing called a job... (yes I know it's cause I need new scrappy supplies all the time)... and this month I'm actually having to earn my paycheck! Yes, I realize that not all weeks are like this one at work...but can't we please please please move it so that it does not coincide with the week everyone has giveaways!!! PLEEEEEAAAASSSEE! AND YES, I do know that we don't always get what we want...but this is all I'm asking for!! today anyway!

I mean seriously, have you guys seen all that is being given away this week? It's scrappy goodness everywhere you look! All ya gotta do is post on the blog and SHAZAM! you are entered for their give-away! I am going to be up all night long tonight!

Choose Happiness!
Here is a page I created to hang on the wall in my scraproom. I originally was just going to use a picture of myself on it...but changed my mind at the last minute. The "L" was to be for 'Lisa'...but works just as great for 'love'. The lines are stitched, from my sewing machine. They aren't very straight...but I think it fits me well... I'm pretty lopsided most of the time! I've written the words Blessed, Thankful, and Grateful on there...because I am.

I just love looking up and seeing this on my wall. It's true ya know...happiness really is a choice. You can choose to be happy or not. No matter what you've got in life, a big house or not.. a nice car or not... your dream job or just a job... it's your choice to be happy .. or not. David has this saying when things happen that might be upsetting or aggravating... he says why be mad about it, it's not going to matter in 40 years. I just love that about him... and I love that he chooses to be happy! You know what else... Matt & Jess choose to be happy too, and that... ahhhh, that makes my heart sing!

Gotta bounce... I have blogs to hop.. and wouldn't ya know... Matt's got the laptop at school tonight... **sigh** ... I sure hope I win something! Ya know...if I could win enough supplies...hmmmm, stay with me here... then... I wouldn't have to buy them and that means I wouldn't have to work!! Hey, we may be on to something!

Then, 2-1/2 years later!

2011-01-23T15:44:00.013-06:00

I went to New York City ...and took like 400 pictures... in June of 2008! I'm just now scrapping them! So I'm a little slow in some areas!

Then a couple of months ago I joined the Little Black Dress Kit Club. They have the most wonderful kits full of yummy vintage goodies!

Then, Melissa, who gets the kit also said... "Let's challenge each other to use our kits by the last day of the month!" It'll be really cool to see what we each create using the very same products.

That brings me to now... wanting to scrap my NYC pics, using the kit, and not waiting until the last minute like someone I know will! heehee!

So far I've managed to get 4 layouts out of this kit, and still have plenty of paper and embellies left for several more pages.

LUV this ribbon and must be finding me some of it!

A little stickles on my flowers just makes them come alive!

I love the layering, and am not sure why I've gotten away from it.

I wasn't sure about using the yellow, but it really makes the page pop!

I'm actually working on the next page, almost have it finished...and just super excited that I've started on them. Who knows, perhaps I'll have these pics all scrapped before my next trip to NYC!

Other news in the household.... I'm roasting my first chicken ever today! It's gonna be goooood! I'm also having another go at dressing, since the Christmas one was such a fiasco! This time, I've got the right cornbread!!

Off to see who is winning the football game. I hear Matt yelling, can't tell if it's a good yell or a bad one?? Oh oh oh... David and I were looking on the Texas Ranger site this morning...picking out what games we wanted to go to. I'm soooo looking forward to that! It's gonna be a good year folks!

What a Difference

2011-01-20T12:36:00.004-06:00

2 days can make!! And I do mean H-U-G-E difference!! But, normal for Texoma!

Tuesday...we had sunny skies, temps in the upper 60's, and I jokingly told David.. "think it's time to open up the pool!" To which he said I don't think so... hey, I said jokingly. Today... TODAY.. there are icicles hanging off the diving board! Me thinks a fire would be a great idea for tonight!

It does need to warm up though...not only am I so very over the cold...but I need some pictures.. of the kids and all of us together, some recent, not having a bad hair year, with green grass and trees in the background pictures! I'm wanting to put them on the mantel and on my sofa table. They are both looking a little bare right now!

Here are my pics from my 1 weekend 2 shots that I'm doing. Yes, I am still doing it... no I've not posted my pics for a few weeks. I could go into major explaining..but it'd really just sound like a broken record... so lets just say I had to do some prioritizing... while I took my pics still, I just didn't post them. I could go back and pull them up and post them now...but I'm trying to be so about living in the moment!

bahahahahaha......Talk about B.S.! I really just don't want to mess with it! Besides, they will be in the book. Yes, the book! I'm pretty sure this is week #30. Has it really been that many already? WOW!

My most favorite coffee cup! I got this about... oh my, back when Jessica was in Jr. High. She's a Sr in college now! How crazy is that! I think that came from my last trip to New Orleans. I love visiting there and hope to go back someday.
Shhhhhhh, don't tell Matt it's sitting on the laptop.

Batch like #42 of the choc chip cookies that David & Matt would devour within a couple of hours. There was no having a couple the next day!

I do plan to make a book with my weekend shots in it. I really think that will tell so much about me for the last year. It's on my list to do.. after the DD is done...which is close people! Anyway, I got to thinking earlier that it just might be smart to go back and send the pics I have already to Walgreens. Trying to print a year at once will be crazy stupid! I'll spend days trying to make sure I've got them all.

I've still got Jessica's album to finish.... yes bug, I haven't forgotten! And my mothers. Ya know, all kidding aside...just thinking about the albums I want to do exhausts me! I'd best get busy! Why oh why can't I be one of those people that will only scrap a few pics from each event? Why must it be so many that I scrap? I'm talking hundreds. Like if we go on vacation or to the races, or even Christmas.. I'll take 100's & 100's of pics, and scrap at least 100 of them. Well, I'll want to scrap them...most of them are sitting waiting! There's no point in crying over it... that certainly will not help any at all. I'll get done what I get done I suppose... and I'm thinking this is my year! There will be much accomplished this year!! This is the year of Lisa Accomplishments!

Alrighty, I've rambled enough I do believe... there's work to be done!

Thanks for stopping by. Send some sunshine my way if you've got it!

Boom Boom!

2011-01-17T19:55:00.004-06:00

Boom Boom??? ha.. yeah, the title means nothing...except that ummm.. I couldn't think of a title and the Black-eyed Peas are on the radio! It was either Boom Boom, or... If ya want to get down! Yes, I know, no need for you to tell me, I admit it... I really need help!

Once again it's been a few weeks since my last post. I'm just not feeling very social I suppose. I really do not like the winter... I can not stress to you how much I hate the cold. It's not that I love it hot so much, matter of fact I can't take the heat like I once could...but the cold.... ugh! It's like it gets in my bones and just makes me miserable. AND, no comments about needing meat on my bones.. that is so not what it is. Anyway, the cold makes me cranky and tired. Very very cranky! Like I will say something mean to you on purpose if you even try and speak to me cranky. I do come by the mean-ness honestly..and if you knew my grandparents you'd think I was a saint! But anyway, I've been super busy at work... cranky from the freezing temps.. and just trying to get a routine going again after the holidays!

I have been busy creating though. Even if in spurts. I've been working on my December Daily album. Nope, I didn't get it finished before December.. or even in December! You do realize I'm the Queen of late, right? I've got half of it done... pages complete with photo's. I changed up the front cover... took out the tags I had there and made new ones...never liked the tags I had anyway, which is a good thing...cause I left them out and Ozzy found them. They are in pieces under the bed... along with I think some missing thickers and a sheet of Jolee's Christmas embellies. Man I love that dog!

I'm still not sure how I'm going to bind my DD. It's mighty thick already! I need like some 9" binder rings! I've posted a few shots below... little snippets of the DD until I get it all finished, then I think I'll do a slide show of it. Who knows, you may come back tomorrow and find 15 pages of it. It's a good thing there are no rules in posting projects on here...cause I'd be breaking them all!!

Here's one of the three new tags I made for the front. The snowflake embellies were from Sandi! Awesome right!

Some of the pages... do you see the burlap? I got that I think right before Christmas... it arrived in the mail and was a huge surprise from a wonderful friend! Who by the way I can't thank enough! This just goes to show it does pay to whine! heehee!

I'm really working on taking better shots with my camera. I know that it's not about the camera you have and that good shots can be taken with any kind of camera...but I'm trying to manipulate my camera more, instead of letting it be in charge. Which now that I think about it, it's really surprising as I've been told I have control issues! haha. Think next time I'll say that's not true... I always let my camera be the boss! I've got a class coming up the first of next month and I'm super excited! Hope it's not cold!

Alrighty... gotta bounce... auditors are calling!
Thanks for taking time to stop by.

Leftovers & Letters From Santa

2010-12-27T22:27:00.002-06:00

What do you do with your leftovers? Wrapping paper leftovers that is. I don't normally save mine...well sometimes I might save some of the wrapping paper if I just really love it. Always before I'd throw most of what was left, if not all of it away, telling myself it was a space issue. Now, I've got the space, just not sure I want to take it up with leftover wrapping paper and bows. I know it's a waste, and that stuff is soooo expensive! For some reason I save and reuse the bags...but not the paper or bows. Just wondering what you guys do with yours.

Santa came.... and must have had a little extra time this year. He played a little trick on the kids. Instead of leaving their gifts under the tree as he always has in years past... this year he left each one of them a letter in their stocking with clues as to where to find their present in the house.. well, except for Josh. Josh had to go find his in the garage. The kids didn't know this was happening, although they did corner me asking as to why Santa didn't leave their gift!
Below are the pictures of them as they are each reading their letters.

It was too much fun, and the kids really enjoyed it.... although there seemed to be moments of frustration from not being able to find what was literally right in front of them at times!

It's been a busy month. We had a wonderful Christmas, all of our families together. This was the first year that both mine and David's family celebrated together and it was really nice, even if David and I were sick.

I've had this nasty mess of coughing, sneezing, fever, sore throat for over a week. It's better now, but there were some nights with very little sleep this last week due to constant coughing. I only worked one day last week due to being sick and then off for holidays, at least I know I'll have plenty to do in the office for the next few days!

I must run... want to do a quick post... it's been weeks since my last I know, and I've truly missed it! It's time for David and I to watch one of our favorite shows.. "The Closer". We luv it! Maybe now that I've stolen Matt's laptop I'll post more. It's pretty cool sitting in the living room with David and being online.... hmmmm, I think I see a laptop in my future! Is it to early to start asking Santa for next years present?

Tis the Season

2010-12-01T13:18:00.003-06:00

To be merry and bright and fun and loving and .... send me presents!! HA!

Tis also the season for all the blogs to be doing giveaways! How exciting! If you can keep up that is! I can't! I'll admit it! With trying to work and play and cook and take care of the puppy and answer the phone... oh and shop... I'm starting to feel like I'm being pulled in too many directions... so... the cooking must go!

I've gotten some more pages done for my December Daily... and hey, today is Dec 1st! Woohoo! Be sure you check back soon for the first page to have the picture attached!

But first, a pic of Josh, Jess, and Zoey...taken at mom's this past weekend. I purposely did not blur the background, wanting to capture the lights and Santa's.. but now wondering what it would have looked like if I'd played with the aperture. Should have done both! Either way, the picture turned out really good...could be because of the subject matter!

Pages 4, 5, 6, & 7! Pg 7 seems to be missing it's number at the moment.

Here is a canvas wall hanging that I've made. It's hanging on my scraproom wall. Slowly but surely I'm starting to get some things made for that room... I do mean slowly! I've had this for over a year and glad I saved it. I love it...and love seeing it on my wall!

Alrighty.... gotta bounce peeps! Lots to do!
Have a blessed evening!

Week #23-One Weekend Two Shots

2010-11-30T19:17:00.003-06:00

Week #23 is upon us, and let me tell you... I've taken plenty of pictures the last few days! It was a busy weekend and if not having had 4 days off, well I'm not sure I would have survived it!

This shot is of a tree in my Mother's bedroom. I love the colors she uses on this tree... and of course it matches the colors in her bedroom.

This next shot...can you tell what it is?

Cotton! Growing in a field not to far from here.

You should have seen me getting this shot! I've got to get this scrapped so I can remember the story! I drove a little way down the dirt road, parked on the side, and trudged up the embankment to the fence... was not happy with that shot at all... it was the whole field and nothing I could do to change it. So finally, I got back in the car to head home and thought...nope, I'm getting the picture I want! Drove down the road a bit, found a gate that went into another field, not this one...and thought I'm getting this shot! Did I tell you I had on boots with about 3 inch heels? Spike heels at that! Oh, and a pretty white sweater? Out I go with camera in hand... found a place in the fence that the barbwire was loose... down on my butt I go and started crawling... had to take the sweater off, it kept getting caught...don't worry, I had on another shirt... into the pasture I crawled... minus a bit of hair...but I'm not liking the hair right now anyway, so that's ok... and man was the dirt soft! There was a little stumbling going on, because lets face it... I'm not to steady in spiked heels on a flat surface! You know what though... I'd do it again... it was so worth it! I did wonder how I'd explain myself if the farmer happened to show up while I was out in his field!

Anytime I see cotton growing it gives me such a warm feeling in my heart... reminds me of my grandparents and trips to their house!

Wishing you all a nice warm Tuesday evening! I'm off to work on my December Daily some more.

December Daily

2010-11-29T00:55:00.005-06:00

Alrighty, had to post a few pics of the December Daily so you guys would really know I'm doing one! Plus it's been some time since I posted any scrap projects... I've really been working on stuff. Why this weekend I even finished one set of my ATC's for Lora's swap! How about that, me....ahead of schedule! HA!

Anyway, the pages are a little plain for me... at least compared to what I normally do... I'm sure I'll add a few embellies as I add pics and journal spots...it's so hard to know what to put on it when you haven't added the main part yet, and I just know myself...I'll be kicking myself because some embellie over here works better or some sort of silly nonsense.

My cover... the tags are in a pocket...my first pocket ever to do!! Woot Woot!
Another first...versamark and a stamp... I need to start using all these techniques that Melissa takes her time to teach me!

The tags... thank you Mr. Cricut

Inside cover... not sure if I'm going to leave it as is with nothing on it or not

I'm having a into page... so...my intro page. Think I'll just simply put a pic of the outside of the house here

I'm doing 2 page layouts... 25 of them... so 50 pages.. I must have lost my mind! It was dark when I was taking the pics last night...I didn't feel like messing with the lighting and trying to make it work, so I just scanned the pics. For now, they are in a single line, cause it was 1am people... and they may just continue on this way... but, just so you know.... they will be in sets of two... thank you for understanding!! :)

Page 1

Page 2

Page 3

I've gotten more done... but will wait to post. I'm not to sure about posting them all with no pics and then coming back and posting with pics... but ya never know.. I may run out of things to post and they'd come in handy. Unlike now...I've got so much to post that I don't know where to start!!

I must say, I am having fun with this project... I feel like I've got a little bit of pep back in my scraphappy step! And that's a good thing!

Thanks for stopping by...wishing you all a wonderful day!

Induction

2010-11-22T21:29:00.004-06:00

Into:
The International Honor Society of Education at Midwestern State University

Not only was Jessica inducted in, but also as Vice President! I must tell you though, she was asked to be the president but declined the offer due to her busy schedule.

To say I'm proud of her is putting it mildly!
She's doing so well, and I must say I am not surprised! I've always known she would succeed at whatever she decided to do!

I love you baby girl!

Waiting to be introduced

Signing the book

Her certificate

Pops and Mimi were there to watch

The candle passed to the officers

Josh & Jess

I made her pose with her name, for when I have the madcow!

After the ceremony, we went to eat. It was my Daddy's birthday as well, so we had lots to celebrate!

Isn't she just so pretty!

Josh making a face

Matt, Kristin, and me

David, Jess, & Josh

Matt & Kristin

Momma, Daddy, and Matt

It was a busy busy weekend, but so enjoyable. Josh & Jess had just signed papers on a house on Fri, so Sat I went into Wichita Falls... went to see the house... it's really nice and I know they will have may happy years there. Then I was off to try something new with my hair... oh that went bad... and did a little shopping. Got myself a new Tim Holtz die and ..... shoes!!! YEA ME! Hey, I had to have a little therapy after the hair disaster! Out to eat with Josh & Jess before heading home. Then Sunday back to Wichita Falls to celebrate with the family!

Don't ya just love those kinds of weekends.

That's all for now, just wanted to share our weekend with you all!

Have a Happy Happy Thanksgiving my dear friends! Love to you all!

Week #22 Shots

2010-11-22T21:22:00.003-06:00

My photo's for week #22

Santa's Hand

My Daddy on his 67th Birthday.

Almost finished.

2010-11-17T21:58:00.007-06:00

Ahhh, last night I started getting out my Christmas Decorations. While it might be a tad bit earlier than I normally put them out, I need to get the totes emptied so we can put them up in the attic and out of the way. No need to take them up, only to bring them back down in a few days.

After I started unpacking I looked around and thought, I've never taken any photos of the living room and put them on the blog. I mean after all, Barb needs to know what the living room looks like in case she wants to color coordinate some clothes!

I'm really not yet finished with it, but I wanted to go ahead and post pics, I'm sure I'll post some of all Christmas decorations after I get them up.

And please, see the 3 piece picture on the wall. You can really tell me if you think it's a bit too much. I understand, really!! I think it's a bit too much with all of the blue, but David loves it... and when you are married you have to give a little. He's really so very good to me, so agreeing to this set was really a no brainer for me.

We are going to lower the pictures. I think that would help a bit if they are lower. Think I'll look for different pillows, not sure yet, but think that might help. I have a bit of mixed feelings on the pictures. While I do like them and really like the abstract, I just thought the colors didn't work with what I had going. But... they do keep the room from being so dark.... they do bring a bit of vivid color into the room, and we all know how I love color! I did add some blue flowers to the vase below the pictures, and am thinking perhaps if I put another vase with flowers and straw stuff over in the corner behind the table and lamp that will help take some of the color to the other side of the room. I've had mostly reds, golds, and browns going in there so far. I wasn't overly crazy about the gold at first, but it was what was used on all the fixtures. Unless you are very wealthy, you work with what you have, and if you don't like it, then slowly replace it. Although now, I'm kinda liking it. The furniture isn't leather. It's that microfiber stuff, but it's so comfy!

Here I'm standing over by the back door.

This wall paper was already there. It's another thing that I'm not so crazy about.. but David likes the 3D look of it. It does work with my colors and makes me think of the North Pole. With the holidays approaching it works perfect. However, it might just find itself replaced in a few years. We'll see. In these next two photos I'm standing in front of the fireplace.

Behind the couch is a tiled entry way I guess you can call it. You can see the gold light hanging down. In the picture it looks as if it might be hanging over the couch, but it's not. In front of the window there, I've put a sofa table.

Here I'm behind the couch. This is another area that needs a little more added to it. I'll have framed photos up on the mantel and top of the tv. David is wanting to get a new tv, a flatscreen I think along with a stand, so that will change. It's not going to be anytime soon, so until then I will have photos on top of the tv as well. I absolutely love the art work over the fireplace. I need to take a close up picture of it and post it so you can see it better. Of course the plant by the fireplace will be moved before long.
These next two pictures I'm standing over by the front door, next to the doorway going into David's music room. You can see the hallway, if you take a left you go straight into the guest bedroom.... which is now Matt's...but he's willing to give it up for Barb! Take a right down the hall and you will find the guest bathroom... keep going and you end up in my scraproom!

Behind David's recliner is a built in bookcase that I forgot to get pics of. I'll show you that after I get my Christmas decorations up.

Honestly, I'd love for you guys to tell me what you really think. I'm struggling a little with trying to get the picture to blend in. As I said, I think maybe different pillows will help, or possibly a vase behind that one end table. The pillows are what came with the furniture and I'm not attached to them. Part of the reason I've made this post is for your input. The pictures are there to stay, for several years anyway, David truly loves them, so I just need to find a way to make it work. If you think it's fine now, then you can say that. All I ask is that you don't tell me it looks fabulous if you are sitting in front of your computer saying... OMG, how atrocious! No smoke blowing up my rear!

I think it's really coming together. I've had fun looking for pieces to put in the house... just wish I had all the money to do it RIGHT NOW! I am not known for my patience. I do know that I've got to get as much of it done these next few months as I can....for when spring hits... all my monies will be being spent on the outside!! But then again, adding pieces here and there over the years is what normally happens in most homes.

I'm really looking forward to reading your comments... so please, don't be shy!

Week #21- One Weekend-Two Shots

2010-11-16T07:55:00.002-06:00

Here are my photos for week #21. I realize my photos have been lacking a little these last few weeks. While I'm still excited about this challenge, I know I haven't been giving it the attention I should! I must admit I'm feeling a little guilty about that.

This past weekend I really wanted to take some photos of color. Wonderful, glorious, can't live without it COLOR! I think I managed to capture some of that!

Buttons! I love buttons, though I must admit that I seldom use them. Digging through the bowl that I had them in just hasn't been appealing to me. This past weekend I went to my Grannie's house and came back with 7 vintage pieces of glassware. One of them even belonging to my great-grandmother. At first I had thought I'd clean them and put them in a cabinet in the kitchen.... then thinking how sad is that, they'll never be used. On the drive back home I thought...buttons! I can sort my buttons by color and display them on my new cubbys! (I'll be showing you those soon)

They work perfect! And... I Love Them! Now my buttons are sorted... out where I can see them, and, hopefully use them more!

This next picture, while I'm not sure if I used the correct setting on the camera, you can see how the sun is hitting half the pot and the other half is in the shade, the picture itself excites me! These are in my back yard, the geraniums have more blooms on them right now than they've had since May... and it's November 14th! (well, the photo was taken on the 14th) It should be cold outside and the flowers are all usually dead by now...but here it is, the middle of November, and I've got wonderful pink blooms!

Seeing these out my back door just makes me smile! I walk out there each day and just stare at these blooms! I'm so anxious to get started on this yard!

I did some creating over the weekend and worked some more on my scraproom. I have to say, it's all coming together. I'm waiting for a couple more things to arrive and then I think I might be nearing the end of it! Can't wait to get it finished and show you guys!

Hope you all are having a wonderful week. As always, thank you for stopping by!

Week #20 shots

2010-11-09T12:49:00.002-06:00

Here are my photos for Week #20.

A splash of color to go with the painting.

A little something sent home from my Grannie's.

I really need to get a picture of the living room now that it has almost reached it's finished stage. I'll try to remember to do that this weekend during the day when the lighting is better. Plus, I do need a picture of it now for my album that I will someday make.... hmmmm, hope I'm still living here when I get it made and the kids haven't moved me into some home.

Speaking of kids, they are all doing just great! So good in fact, I find that right now I'm not having to worry about them any. Ahhhh, no wonder I've been sleeping so good the last few days.

Jessica is doing well in school, and the days she doesn't have class she's getting to sub. She is actually getting paid to teach! She's been elected vice president of the NHS at her campus and we will be going to a ceremony for it later this month. Josh has been hired by a company on base and is still able to take the classes he is in. He is officially out of the air force and just returned from his first weekend with the reserves. Matt is doing well in school also. He seems to be enjoying it which is a blessing. He's met a nice young lady and seems to be returning to his old self again. It's a nice feeling, not being so worried about one of them or all of them. While I don't like having to watch them stumble or fall, it is a pleasure to watch them through this journey as the become adults.

Right now, life is peaceful, and that is a wonderful thing!

Blessings to all!

A wall of delightful goodies

2010-11-07T11:16:00.003-06:00

It is delightful, this wall of mine. The board is filling up with cards from all my friends. There is so much inspiration in that one little spot!

You can see the gutter David cut to give all my ribbon spools a home! I love it!! My ribbon is right there at my fingertips and it's just so easy to remove a roll, take it to the table so I can cut what I need, and just put it back in place. I'm not sure who the person was that thought of this idea, but it is pure genius! I think it will look much better though if I get end caps for it. Plus it will help stabilize it a bit too, I think. Did I tell you how much I just love love love it!! Only problem that I see with it right now, there are blank spots!

Thanks for stopping by!

Playing Catch-up Weekend shots #18 & #19

2010-11-01T13:31:00.004-05:00

Jess & Josh cooking lunch for us... can't get any better than that!

Copic Markers... love seeing all the colors in that tin can

My shrub with red berries. Glad I waited and didn't dig this one up. I'm going to like looking outside in the winter and seeing the hint of red.

More delightful goodness of color!

Our Everyday Life

2010-10-20T14:16:00.004-05:00

I knew some time had gone by without me posting any new creations... could be that I haven't done much over the last few months. Guess I've been a little preoccupied with the whole moving thing.... so I thought, it's time to change that.

Here's a mini book, I guess you could call it that, that I created at the retreat, I should probably say that I finished at the retreat. I'd already started it, sort of, before the retreat. The album is canvas and part of a kit I bought, along with the class from Pamela's World of Scrap
I love her blog, love her work, just love everything about her. One of the things I got from her class was to use what you have. All of the canvas pages are glimmer misted and I mainly used items from my scrap stash as the masks. The style here is so "less is more", which we all can agree is not me. This helped me to step outside my comfort zone a bit, and I really liked that. The last few pages have been created but have no pictures as yet. My goal was to do the album about our everyday life right now in this year 2010... and we still have some days left of this year.. not to mention I still have some pictures unprinted... so I'll add pictures to those pages later.

We are getting a bit more settled into the house, it's starting to look and really feel like home. Sometimes I still wonder if it's all a dream. It still amazes me how it all came about. Now I'm wondering just where I'm going to put my Christmas Tree! No, it's not to early to be wondering about this.... something has to keep me awake at night!

Odd as it may seem, I'm in a bit of a quiet mood right now. Have been for a few days, ok many day... I think I know the reason... but knowing it and doing something about it are two very different things. I seem to have this uncanny knack for when I try to do something about whatever it might be, I put both feet in my mouth... sometimes even spare ones that might be in the room too, and then I just make the whole situation worse. Ahhhh, the problems of the world!

My Texas Ranger's play in 47 minutes! If they win today then they go to the World Series. Even if you are not a baseball fan... cheer for them... not only have they NEVER made it to the World Series, but they have never won a Division Series either, which they did last week! (Sorry Barb) Right now they are one win away from winning the Championship series! I'm just so excited!

Thanks for taking time out from your day to stop by! Be sure to give a WooHoo for the Ranger's!!

One Weekend-Two Shots #17

2010-10-18T00:17:00.002-05:00

Hello Bloggers!

Hope you all had a good weekend. I know I did. I spent Saturday for the most part on the couch reading a book... I couldn't put it down! Then Sunday in my scraproom playing. It was just a great weekend!

While I've got lots to tell, I seem to have no energy at the moment... so I'm just going to post my weekend shots and come back later when I feel more talkative! I know, it's hard to believe I'm not always feeling the need to yack yack yack!

Look at all this color! Isn't it just glorious?

My little storage boxes I covered. I'm pretty proud of them!

Hope you are having a great Monday! Tonight my Rangers are taking on the yucky Yankee's in game three of the series! LET'S GO RANGERS!!

Weekend Shots-Take 15 & 16

2010-10-10T20:06:00.005-05:00

Hello Friends,

It's been a few days since I've been here... and I have to say I've missed it! I've missed scrapping and creating too! Ahhhh, but this weekend, this weekend I didn't pack, unpack, or paint one single thing!(Glimmer Misting doesn't count!) I did hang up a couple of pictures, but other than that.... nada!

Saturday I spent the biggest part of the day cleaning and straightening. We had our first dinner for friends here and while it took some preparing for it, it was really nice. It's not that the house was so messy, just house chores had been neglected for a couple of weeks it seems like, that included laundry. Going to the retreat last weekend took some time away from daily duties. First I had to get ready to go... oh the thought and energy that requires. Then I went!! Then, I had to rest from it! I got there Thursday afternoon, didn't go to bed until Fri., well Sat morning at about 1am. Then back up at 7:30 am on Sat., bed at 4am Sunday... not much sleep was had that is for sure! It seems as though this past week I did nothing...and that made for a nice change.

I have however taken my weekend shots. I believe I've failed to get weekend 14 up, but I can assure you... pictures have been taken!

Here is a picture from the retreat last weekend. Think this was actually taken Fri, but I am using it for my Sat one because I wanted this on here.
This baby is called the "Big Nasty"!

My Sunday shot is of a house that burnt down long ago I'm sure. I pass it on the way home when we are coming back from the Dallas, TX. area. I always wonder when I see houses like this one or ones falling down, what ever happened to the family that lived in this so many years ago. Have they all moved away? Was anyone injured? Did they farm so many years ago? Of course I never have any answers. Can you see the different colors of stones that are in the house?

This Sat pic... the first stage of the stuffing for the chicken... mushrooms and onions... oh it sure was good!

Today's picture... my new toy. Oh if Miss Firestone could see me now with a sewing machine!! I love it! It's so fun! This machine is perfect for scrapping and card making... and that's perfect for me! Cause sewing on clothes is so not my thing, will not happen!

That's about all for now. I've spent the bigger part of my day in "my" room.. trying to get over being depressed about the Rangers losing again...(shhh Barb!). I have played most of the day, packing up swap items and finishing some others. I'll get pics up of my canvas album that I made last weekend in the next few days. Things are almost back to normal here at the homestead.... why this coming week the curtains and wall decor for living room shall be arriving! Cool huh?

Ta-ta for now my friends!

Whole lotta more, part 3

2010-09-21T21:03:00.005-05:00

The scraproom! Now remember, I've not hung anything on the walls yet... and this is just a first go at arranging my stash. It may very well change as I get started playing and determine what works better for me. But this is it for today.

This is what you see when you first walk in the room. I'm excited to have the computer in here, even though it takes up some space, but this allows me to have my pazzle in here also... which I know I'm going to love love love! I didn't get a picture of the pazzle, but it's on the left side of the computer.

Here's my table with my cricut, purple cow, and big shot. I'm going to love being able to have these out within reach of my finger tips.
Some of my paper. Susan wanted to see the stacks of paper. I love my storage system. It works great for me.
The two pink totes hold all of my SU! paper. I love it organized this way. The blue tote is full of kits. I'm thinking I don't need anymore.
Over here on this wall are more storage totes. The two shelves have all of my SU! stamps set, some punches, and the pink boxes are my sizzix dies.

This is inside the closet, and I'm not sure it will stay this way, but for now most of the stash is unpacked.
I think I'll eventually get cabinets and have them instead of just the tables. Or some of the cubby shelves. In my mind, that's what I see. That way I can keep more behind closed doors and the room will look neater. It just has a very cluttered look to me. Maybe after I get some things made and up on the walls, I'll love it more. Then I think who cares... it's my room. This is why I wanted a room in the back of the house, to keep this all out of sight from visitors. Besides, anyone who really knows me, they know how I love this addiction of ours. Plus, we all know how messy things can get when you are working on a project, or four!

Well that's it for now. Be sure to keep scrolling down to see the other two posts. I went at this a little backwards. What can I say.

Hope you enjoyed the mini tour. I'll get more up as I finish a room. Hoping to get curtains for the living room this weekend. Good thing I'm not an impatient person! hahaha

A whole lotta more, part 2

2010-09-21T20:47:00.003-05:00

Hello, wont you come in!
Here I'm standing right in front of the house, next to the street. The window by the garage is the formal dining room, which we are not going to have. It is going to be David's music room. The door opens up, there's a small space and you see into the living room. The window next to the door is the living room. The last window is the spare bedroom. That's where you can stay if you come visit!
Still out by the street, but wanted you to see this other bed and all the flippin shrubs in it.

Can you believe it, more shrubs.
When next you see this area, it will be very different. It might not be until next summer... but that's ok.
Be sure you keep scrolling down. The last post is actually my first post. Yes, I'm a bit backwards today! Thank you for noticing.

Week 12 & 13 Plus a whole lotta more

2010-09-21T20:10:00.008-05:00

I think I'm going to have to do this in two parts, it's not letting me upload any more pictures to this post. Either I hit my limit or the uploader is tired!

I'm not even going to pretend to know which pics I took on the weekend and which ones were taken at other times. Just trust me when I tell you... I've been taking pictures almost daily!

Some of these may be duplicates for some you. I'll be posting here, to facebook, and Memory Makers. I'm just trying to cover all my bases.

I've taken several pics so you can actually get an idea, I'm hoping, of the whole layout. One or two pics just doesn't do it!

Here goes... the back yard

This is what you see when you walk out the backdoor. It's also what you see if you are standing at the sink in the kitchen, which looks right out the backdoor.

The flower bed on the west side of the back yard. This shot is also taken standing in front of the window in my scraproom... so this is pretty much what I see when I look out the window.

Looking across to the east side of the yard. Oh do I have plans for that corner and fence row. David just doesn't know it yet!

The corner next to the back door. That window is my dining room. This is one of the beds I've managed to get cleaned out. You could tell the flower beds had been left unattended for the last month or so before we moved in. I'm not judging.. I might have done the same thing. They are just in dire need of help right now.

The one and only flower bed I've planted some flowers in. I brought these dasies over from our other house. The green barrel you see, there are two of them, they catch the rain water. While I love that idea, they aren't very pretty... so I'm going to try to think of something that I will want there to help hide them some. These two windows are my bedroom.

This shot was taken at the back end of the yard looking up at the house. We've not got a patio set yet, yes it's the best time of year to buy them... but we've had so much else to buy that we thought it could wait until spring. Ok... windows... the first on the left is my bedroom, it's corner windows... then the dining room, backdoor next, living room window, then another set of corner windows that are my scraproom.

Ahhhh... the trimmer and the cord I cut. Cool huh? Did you see all the shrubs... wait, you've not seen the front yard yet!

The dining room. The one and only totally complete room in the house. I love these curtains. Thank you J.C. Penny. If you go through that door way, straight leads to the laundry room then the garage. Take a left and you go down the hall into my bedroom.

The first plant I bought to plant in the new yard! The only plant so far to be honest. I planted this in front of the scraproom window.
My snake... make that my Dead Snake. Sorry... I had to share!
My toad. He comes out every night, to the back door, trying to catch bugs. I don't like bugs, so the toad gets to live.
Ok, that's it for now.... off to post more.

Before & During... to be cont.

2010-09-09T13:46:00.002-05:00

The MOST important room in the house! While David might not think so, I know you will agree with me... or most of you anyway!

This is the room before I started working on it. I so do not like the baby yellow walls. Our computer is in here, (thank you), which means David will be spending time in here, and that's perfectly ok... he's just not big on lots of color. He likes things plain and simple... I like them to jump out at me!!!
So.... I thought a nice neutral color on the walls, then I can spice it up with containers and "STUFF"! Thinking that might work for the man.

But anyway, here's the mess. Boxes and boxes and wheelie containers. To be honest, I don't even think this is everything. Well, I know it's not. My paper isn't in this picture, and there are a couple of big boxes missing too.

Here I moved the boxes out and started the painting. I think in this corner I'm going to put up another table and it will hold my cricut and pazzle, along with maybe the paper cutter and bigshot? Not sure yet. This picture does give you an idea of the new color I am painting it. I ran out of paint and have to go get some more after work. My goal is to have it all painted and have started setting it up by Saturday evening. Wish me luck!

Week 11-One Weekend, Two Shots

2010-09-08T21:37:00.002-05:00

Jessica cooked a chicken casserole for us. I meant to take a picture before everyone dug in, but as you see I didn't get to.

Zoey-poor thing was so tired. She played and played outside in the pool and then would run and run and run.

Slowly But Surely

2010-09-03T10:33:00.003-05:00

That's my new saying for the week. Slowly but surely it's all coming together. Furniture has been delivered, appliances as well. Power is on, cable is hooked up, now all that is left is the gas company. They were to have been here Monday, ummm, never showed... and now will come today sometime between 7am and dark. They weren't here at 7am! Don't ya just love that window they give themselves! I have almost 3 rooms painted, with my scraproom left. I want to paint it before I unpack everything. But let me tell you, I am so itching to get it set up!

We still need a dining room table along with a coffee table and end tables for the living room. Think we will be done after that, for a few months anyway. We may possibly go in search of those tomorrow, it just depends on what flight David's in at the tournament. Since it's Labor Day Weekend we might just find some great sales!

Here's a few pics of Matt & Josh with Zoey in the pool. I so can not wait to get some flowers added to the beds so there is bursts of color around the yard! All greenery is just not my thing.

Needless to say, after they let Zoey out, Kiara wouldn't go near them! They'd call her and she'd just turn her back to them... like the spoiled little princess she thinks she is!

I must get back at it. Would be sad if I'd taken the entire day off and accomplished nothing! Have a great Labor Day Weekend everyone!

Week 10- 1 Weekend, 2 Shots- Part 2

2010-08-29T22:52:00.002-05:00

Told ya I'd be back.... you didn't believe me did you! I've got my Sunday shot, well, I've got two Sunday shots! I know, shocker!

David's first jump into the pool... was a little cold at first. You've got to click on the picture to see the look on his face. Priceless!

Caught Matt in the middle of his dive.

Let's just say the guys loved the pool. I was actually inside working while they were playing. Except for the few times I'd go outside and snap pics of them in the pool with my phone so I could text them to Jessica. Just wanted her to see what she was missing. Poor child was at work, but as soon as she got off, she went home, grabbed Josh and Zoe, and headed this way. Then we all enjoyed a little pool time. Think we are going to like it there!

I'll be back later this week with more pics. Have some of Matt & Josh in the pool with Zoe!

Have a great Monday everyone!

Week 10- 1 Weekend, 2 Shots- Part 1

2010-08-29T09:00:00.004-05:00

Saturday's Shot- Pump Jack on an oil well. A very common sight in Texas & Oklahoma. Working pumps mean money!

This next shot was taken Friday, and while not part of my weekend shots, it is something I've been waiting to see for weeks and weeks. Papers were signed Friday!! WOOT WOOT! Final walk through is in oh.... 2 HOURS!!! OMG! Then, I think we get keys at 8pm. Yes, I know it's a little strange, but numerous things have happened in the last few days, so we've had to roll with the punches and come up with alternate plans. It's going to be a crazy week! We will be moving when we can, we still have to work.... see oil pump above...Gas gets turned on Monday, furniture delivered on Tuesday, Cable on Wednesday, Appliances on Thurs, Friday... what's Friday... oh yes... David's golf tournament starts Friday! See I told you a busy week! We didn't find any dining room furniture that we liked, plus we want to get back in the house and look at the space again. I mean I've not seen the inside of the house since the middle of June. David and I were laughing yesterday about how in the last 24 hours we've spent more money than ever before and haven't carried one thing in the house to show for it! It'll all come together, I just need to remember it will not be overnight. BUT... it will start TOMORROW!!

I'm off to go get ready. Be back later with shot #2.
Thanks for stopping by.

One Weekend Two Shots- Week 9: part 1

2010-08-21T22:59:00.002-05:00

As you leave Texas, crossing over the Red River into Oklahoma, these crosses are on top of a hill. They've been there for as long as I can remember. I just love seeing them.

A closer shot

One Weekend Two Shots Part 8

2010-08-21T22:55:00.002-05:00

New kind of clothesline. This caught my eye and I thought... there's my Saturday picture.

Common sight around here, especially on the way to Mom & Daddy's. How many of you have ever been sent outside to turn one off?

week 7-One Weekend Two Shots-Part 2

2010-08-08T23:22:00.003-05:00

Here's my Sunday shot. We live few blocks from the track track crossing and at times have had to turn up the tv while the train is rolling by. This will be one thing I for sure will not miss when we move!

It's been a nice weekend and I'm not ready for Monday. Jessica is here spending the night and I'd rather stay home with her in the morning. :(

Hope you all had a nice weekend.

Week 7 - One Weekend 2 Shots

2010-08-07T15:38:00.002-05:00

I went shopping..... for a gift for my friends birthday. We've not been friends long, not even a year...but she is great. She is keeping me supplied in boxes, offered many times to help me pack and I know she'll be here to help move everything. Tonight we are having a surprise party for her and I just know it's going to be great.

My problem in not knowing her very well yet is I'm not sure of what to get her. I want to make sure it's something she likes.... however, I had no problem whatsoever finding things for myself in these two days I've been shopping for her! This is the wonderful sack from today's purchase. I have two... count them... 1 - 2 shirts in this bag. I love the softness of the pink and blue flowers and then the colors of the other shirt caught my eye as soon as I walked in the store. How I just love lots and lots of color! Look how vibrant the pinks, blues, and oranges are! I'm not real sure what's going on with me liking the blue right now... but I'm not going to question it. I'm just going to be thankful that perhaps I've gotten past my huge dislike of blue. It's much easier to love it than to hate it!

Just looking at all the color in this photo causes me to go AHHHHHH and puts a smile on my face!

On the caffeine note.... I've had none since Monday. I can't believe it. Not only that... but no sugar as well, not even in my tea! I seriously thought I might hurt someone, but it really wasn't that bad. I think weaning myself off of it somewhat last week before I switched to decaffeinated this week really helped. We are trying real hard to change our eating habits and lose some weight. So far so good! One thing though.. I picked up the cake for the surprise party tonight. I thought standing in that bakery would be the test... ha... it's having a cake sitting just a couple of rooms away from me and not touching it! Did I tell you I hadn't had any sugar since Tuesday? As in no chocolate! Are ya pickin' up what I'm puttin' down?

I must get moving! Wishing you all a fantastic weekend!

Week 6- One Weekend Two Shots

2010-08-07T15:23:00.002-05:00

Oh my, thought I had uploaded these shots days ago. Not sure what I did... but there is no post for week 6. These are my pictures I took. I wanted to get outside and take a couple of pics of things we see every week. Nothing really exciting.. as you can see.

In this first picture I laid down under a tree and shot the pictures looking up through the tree to the sky. I've always wanted to do that and just never took the time.

This picture is taken out at the Country Club. I went to ride along with David while he played golf. The sprinklers were going and I was wanting to capture the water droplets. I guess I did... but I'm not thrilled with the picture. Of course this challenge isn't about only sharing the pictures you are thrilled with.
Look how dead the grass is. That's a common thing in Texoma... but not so good at a golf course.

I'm doing some playing around with my camera and I must say learning a few things along the way. I am determined to learn about the buttons, functions, and settings of my camera and be able to use them!

Can it be???

2010-07-30T13:42:00.004-05:00

One layout and two challenges??? Did I really "Get 'Er Done"?

Why yes, it can be! Not only is it one layout and two challenges..... but...... this makes three challenges for the week! What you all say? I know... I'm patting own myself on the back over here! I guess we can say it's been a good week!

I've never participated in a challenge on either of these sites before, but I really like them. I see more challenges in my future! I even did some embossing for this layout. Don't know why I don't do that more often.

At Scrap and Stamp you were to use buttons on your layout and of course a stamp. I always seem to forget I have buttons. I never forget to buy them... just to use them.

Over at Magpie Club the challenge is a sketch. I can't believe this time last year I was saying I didn't like to use sketches and swearing I never would. See what a challenge can do for ya? I think...well I know... I did a little more than the sketch called for with the butterflies and flowers, guess I need to work on that. The staying within the sketch guideline thingamajig. :(

eta: Okay, lets make it 1 layout - 3 challenges. This layout also works over at Practical Scrappers .

I did use paper products from another monthly kit. Yea me again!
All PP- Piggy Tales.
Cardstock for butterflies and scallop circles- Stamin Up!
Scallop Circle stamp and Friends stamp- Stampin Up!
Butterfly Die- by Sizzix from Stampin Up!
Bling - Prima & Creating Keepsakes
Flowers - Prima
Embossing powder- Not sure
Ribbon- Not sure

Think that's got it covered! Wishing you all a great and wonderful weekend!
Oh yea..... it's Friday and no tea or coke/coke products all week! Who'd a thunk it?

Soak Up The Sun

2010-07-27T12:47:00.004-05:00

Here's my layout for this weeks challenge over at Scrapping the Music.
While I haven't been able to play along with them lately, I do love their challenges! It's a great site and if you guys haven't checked them out yet, it's well worth your time! This weeks song is "Soak Up The Sun" by Sheryl Crowe. It's a good thing I love that song because I've been humming it for days now!

I thought these pics were perfect. The pics are of Miss Jess and are when she and I went to Florida.

All products used are S.E.I.

Yea! I finally used one, well some of it, of the 50 bajillion kits that I seem to have stock piled. Can I get an atta girl!

Caffeine update: I went all evening without any and then rewarded myself right before bedtime with just a tiny bit of sweet tea... and I do mean tiny. Then had only 2 cups of coffee this morning and now back to water. Surprisingly David is still alive. Not only is he still alive, but he still has all of his body parts attached! I really don't think it's the caffeine I'm missing as much as the sugar in my sweet tea... at least that's what I'm telling myself.

I must get busy! Wishing you all a fabulous day!
As always.... thanks for taking the time to stop by!

One Weekend Two Shots- Part 5

2010-07-26T12:56:00.010-05:00

Here are my weekend shots. I've got to tell you though, I'm not loving any of my pictures right now. They just seem to be missing the zip, pow, bang. I'm not sure what my deal is. I know they've had it before and feel sure they will again... but for now it's making me less than thrilled about picking up my camera!
I seem to be having a really hard time figuring out my aperture ... oh who am I kidding, I'm having a hard time with all of it right now. But not to despair..I'm reading everything in sight and playing playing playing. I'll get it figured it out!

Here are my shots from the weekend.
For Saturday's I used two shots. David and I had taken a bike ride (motorcycle) out to the lake in search of an old church... can you believe there wasn't one... anyway, we stumbled upon all of these deer. I've never seen so many at once. There were two groups... and I kid you not in the first group there were at least 15. The group was down by the water drinking and I had David stop the bike to get closer because ... duh... someone didn't bring their zoom lens... So the first shot is of them after I'd spooked them and they were running across the road...the second shot is of these 6 that didn't run across but waited there by the edge of the road. David was driving so slow because he wanted to be able to stop if they darted out in front of us. But these 6 didn't...they just stood there and then as we get parallel with them the little baby got skittish and turned to run. Not only have I not ever seen this many at one time, but I don't remember ever being this close to any either. We were no more than 5 feet from the ones in the second picture. Aren't they just beautiful? Do you see the spots all over the little one. I'm still amazed at seeing all of them. While the lake and woody area is on one side, the other side of the road is full of occupied homes. People were out mowing their yards and there were the deer... just running. I think it was 3 houses down from the deer we saw a wild turkey. We turned around to go back and get a picture of him but it was to late. Then just a few more houses down is where we saw the second group of deer and there were at least a dozen in that group.

This is my Sunday shot that was taken on Monday... because I was not having a good day yesterday. Anyway, this is the sign and flag out front of the B&B that I see several times a day. I love looking up from my work and seeing that flag. I can't explain it, but I'm glad it's there.

I'm off to see what kind of mischief I can get in. I've got 2 layouts I'm working on for challenges...thinking maybe I found some motivation. Many things to still be packed up (cause Barb said)!! and I've not had one lick of caffeine or sugar for ummmm... 5 hours! Shhhhh, trust me, those 5 hours are major!
:) Have a great day everyone!

Huh? Where'd my water go?

2010-07-20T08:01:00.003-05:00

That is what I was thinking this morning.... about 5 minutes til 8am. If anyone knows me, they know I am always running behind. Technically I work 8-5, which means I leave the house about 8:05 if I'm doing good. When I'm doing really good it's 8:03. I'm one of those people that is putting on her shoes as she walks out the door...flying down the steps wondering if I unplugged everything I needed to unplug, turned the a/c up, and did I put on deodorant... so turning off my water at 5 minutes til 8am is a very very BIG deal! Because I never have even 5 seconds to spare!
At first I was like oh man... I was using hot water and it was flowing...then just trickled to nothing... the hot water heater started making this noise and I thought you've got to be kidding me! Just a few weeks from moving and the hot water heater is going to go out! But then I realized I had no cold water! Now I'm screeching.... SERIOUSLY?
I might as well just go to work now.... ahhhh there are people in my front yard...
This man had his head down the hole where my water meter belongs.
I was like You turn off my water???
He laughs and says oh yea...we are replacing the water meters.. you were next... we'll get it back on as soon as we can...
I was like DUDE.. I'm trying to get ready for work here... really at 5 to 8 you are going to pull peoples meters! You couldn't wait until 5 AFTER 8?
He says...you were next.
I said... yea, you said that already!

What are ya gonna do? I'll tell you what I did... I put on my shoes, grumbled all the way to the car and just went to work because I do not know how to install a water meter!

Here's a layout I did a few weeks back. It's when I went to NYC a couple years ago. I think it turned out really cute.
I used some paint and ink with a Tim Holtz mask that Serene gave me. I'm really going to have to use this technique more... I sure do like it. Did a little Glimmer Misting on my flowers to get them the colors I wanted. I'm really happy with this one.

Alrighty peeps! Wishing you all a good day with plenty of water!
As always...thanks for stopping by and leaving me some love. It always makes me smile!

One Weekend Two Shots- Part 4

2010-07-19T12:59:00.003-05:00

Hiya Bloggers!

Been a few days since I've posted anything. Guess I've not had much to post about. Haven't really done anything in the last week. Packed up a few boxes. Spent some time with Matt. Watched a little tv.... ok, maybe a lot of tv. Went out and ate Mexican twice! And went to Texas for the day. That still sounds strange saying... I don't think I'll ever get used to "I'm going to Texas".

Here are my Sat & Sun pictures.

Saturday 7/17/2010

My Daddy selling his veggies at Trade Days. I love love love my Daddy's garden grown veggies!

Sunday 7/18/2010

Check out this old stove I ran across. I actually think it's a new one that was made to look like an old one because it is way to shiny! I just thought it was awesome!

Oh poo... I was going to try an upload my pictures in the large format and I just flat forgot! UGH! Maybe next time.

Have a great day everyone!

Weekend shots on Tuesday

2010-07-13T08:00:00.003-05:00

Oh wow! It really is Tuesday and I'm just now uploading my weekend shots. It's been a hectic and stressful several days. I'm on the downhill stretch right now. Matter of fact I have an appt at 9am and by about 11am all should be good. At one point yesterday I felt the walls closing in.

For now here are my weekend shots.

The first picture is Saturdays and was at our friends house. We had our 4th of July a week late due to all the rain. Here's part of the food we had to devour.

This is my Sunday shot. My little Kiara. She runs outside and finds herself a sunny spot and just rolls and then lays as is she is sunbathing. And she does this with all this fur. It just tickles us because she does it ever single time!

Well my 9am is here 15 minutes early. Cool! I'll catch up with you guys later. Hope you are all having a great week!

And how's your morning going?

2010-07-08T09:39:00.003-05:00

Good Morning My Peeps!

Mine is a good morning.... had a headache starting up yesterday around 4ish... but I kicked it's butt! By bedtime it was a dull ache and this morning... why it's just a faded memory! (ok, so I seriously know you can come back and take over Mr. Headache... I'm not thinking I'm in control... I promise... just showing off a little)

My doctor and I talked Tuesday about me taking caffeine out of my life... I'm trying to psych myself up for this, and prepare David at the same time because I do not expect it to be pretty. I'm a caffeine intaker all day long. Coffee, tea, and coke... all day long. So you should all brace yourselves as well.... cause I'm telling you it's liable to get nasty! Plus less caffeine really will help with the headaches... yes momma I know!

I really need to start working this weekend on packing up our extra room. Matt may end up being here much sooner than we thought and I don't want to have to rush through it. Some of you may be going huh??? Matt??? Perhaps I should 'splain some. As David tells me... "you've got some 'splainin' to do Lucy"

Our house is very small and that's the main reason we are moving. It's a 2 bedroom, which there are only 2 of us...but... there's one closet.. well one an a half. I've got so much scrap stuff that I've taken over the laundry room and kitchen. Our spare room is full of guitars...think he has 10... Amps... speakers... recording equipment....everything but a bed. Oh, and my shoes! When the kids come they have no place to sleep... so they don't really come visit much. Plus we want a garage and a few other things the new house will have. The house was David's grandmother, so David has grown up in it. It's really a cute little house and is full of personality. Anyway... Matt has decided he wants to go to college, which is great! So, for various reasons Matt is going to move here and go to college in Lawton, which is about 25 miles away. We are hoping he can transfer with his job to the store in Lawton... they say it should be no problem. He will live in our house and it will be perfect for him! School will be starting about the time we are expecting to close (yes we think it will be before the 30th) and it's just working out so well that you can't help but think it's meant to be. They are checking where Matt works to see if there are openings at the other store and what they might be... and if there is one now I think he is going to go ahead and take it.. rather than wait until next month and run the risk that there isn't an opening. So that's what is going on there... and that really was the short version of the story! See... I do need to get started packing some stuff up!

Well I must get busy. I do believe there are a few things needing to be done. Since we didn't win the lottery last night I should probably do them.

Here are two layouts that I actually had done a couple of weeks ago. I just wasn't sure if they were finished... but I think so.

Bazzill, Stampin Up, Basic Grey, and Graphic 45 papers.
Inkadinkado Stamp; Stampin Up Ink; Sizzix Embossing Folder
Embellies from Prima; Jenni Bowlin; My Minds Eye
Lace from HL

Thanks for stopping by. Seeing you've been here really does give me the wiggles in my chair! Have a fabulous day!

I wanted to add for those who have asked... CJ stands for Circle Journal. It's actually a scrapbook and not a journal as in a writing journal... you get a group together and each of you has a theme for your CJ. You do the first page and then send the CJ on it's way to ... The first person gets it, does a layout on your theme in your book then sends it on the the next person. After the CJ has made the rounds through everyone it comes back to you.... and that's where the circle part comes in. Sometimes though in order to cut down on postage we dont mail the actual album... just do the pages and then send them in to one person to sort. Hope that makes sense.

Emma's CJ Slideshow

2010-07-07T21:25:00.002-05:00

And another one done... and another one done! Way to go ladies.
Here are the pages for Emma's circle journal. 3 Favorite Actors/Actresses. I think all the pages are fantastic!

What A Day!

2010-07-07T07:58:00.003-05:00

Or maybe what a week! And I'm only on work day #2. You know what I think is the worst about having a day off or a short week... it's not the coming back and trying to get in the swing of things or that stuff piles up while you are gone... it's the trying to put 5 days of work into 4 days. I mean it's just not possible without pulling out your hair or chewing off your fingernails or something drastic! I mean I really understand why we work 5 days a week... it's the only way to get the sh*t done!

Right now I'm trying to get everything together for our insurance audit. The dear people emailed me on Friday afternoon that they'd be here next Tuesday. Friday afternoon I thought oh sure fine...cause I was getting off early and having a 3 day weekend! Today I'm thinking that wasn't so smart! PLUS... this woman told me today that I obviously wasn't very bright... and everyone knew it! A few years ago I might have been like oh yea.... but today I just laughed and hung up on her. Then had to call David and tell him! Gave him a good chuckle too.. which he needed. He's not been having a good week.

My Stampin Up! Catalog arrived. Oh it is full of yummy goodies and I've already got post it notes all through it! I need to remember that in a few weeks I shall be packing up my scrap room and moving not to mention that we are going to be looking for furniture and other household delight items. But last night while I was looking through it I was just dreaming up all this stuff to make to decorate with. Then I realized that I need to make something for our realtor because she has just been so helpful. Plus I really like her and just want to do something for her. So, I'm brainstorming for that.

While I was getting ready for work yesterday morning I had a panic thought... wondering how on earth I think I will be able to go to the retreat in Sept. What if my scrap stuff isn't unpacked? What will I take? I'm thinking that when I start to pack up my room, I'll just go ahead and pack my totes for the retreat. That way it's packed to move and it's packed to go to the retreat. Sometimes I just amaze myself at how smart I am. That silly woman just thinks I'm not bright! Ha... showed her!

Ok, I've got to get out of here. Think I have a busy evening on schedule for tonight. David is going to be playing guitar and I see scrapping in my future. How perfect can that be?

Here are my pages for Ms. Emma's cj. Your 3 favorite actors/actresses. As you can see I couldn't pick 3. I probably would have even picked more than 5 but it's only 8x8 pages so no more pictures would fit.

Bazzill cardstock & flowers. Creative Memories printed paper and letters. Stampin Up stamps, punches, and ink.
You can't tell from the picture but I did punch out some clear packaging stuff and stamp it. I'm not sure it does much for me.

Ok, have a great evening everyone. Thanks for stopping by! :)

One Weekend-Two Shots-2-B

2010-07-05T07:58:00.003-05:00

It was pouring rain most of yesterday... David and I spent most of the day curled up with these. It is rare that you don't find one or two books in the living room at David's chair or beside my bed.

One Weekend Two Shots-Part 2

2010-07-04T09:54:00.002-05:00

A common sight at our house on the weekends is to see one of David's golf caps laying on the couch... at the ready for him to grab as he heads out the door to the course again.

Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone

2010-07-03T09:30:00.004-05:00

Ain't no sunshine when she's gone.
It's not warm when she's away.
Ain't no sunshine when she's gone
And she's always gone too long anytime she goes away
And I know, I know, I know, I know, I know,
I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know,
I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know,
I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know

I KNOW THE SUNSHINE NEEDS TO COME OUT!
There's not even a hint of the sun. It's all rainy, dreary, an wet. Doesn't look good for the outdoor 4th festivities. Although David's out playing golf... wait oh yea, nothing, not even snow stops him!

It started raining about 30 minutes after I got off yesterday. I came home and wanted to get my flower beds weeded and mow where we park. It'd rain and it'd stop and it'd rain and it'd stop. Finally I stopped before someone called the people with white jackets on me. How redneck is it to be mowing your yard in the rain? But hey, I did get one flower bed weeded... it looks good I might add, and I did manage to mow where we park and right next to the street! Yard just looks silly now!

Below are a couple more pages for mom's album. I'm making some progress here! I think one of the pages I've already posted over at the Memory Makers Forum, but I haven't the first one. I did lots of stuff on the first one...just couldn't seem to stop.
Lots of butterflies coming up from the fountain. The flower cut outs and kids at the fountain, along with some of the paper used is Webster's. That paper just has so many possibilities. I used a Big Shot die for the flourish and butterflies. Some Stampin Up ribbon on both pages. Creative Memories and Graphic 45 paper. Felt flowers by Maya Road and paper flowers are Bazzill.

So, I've been thinking.... really really thinking and even though I told myself I would NOT get the Sizzix Pro Machine..... **sigh**.... I think I really want it. At first my thoughts were who on earth would want to cut a shape into a 12x12 page... well hello! While I know I can do it with the cricut... it's just a pain... would be so much easier to grab the die and zip it in the machine. I don't know for sure... I still need to think about it some more. David said well I think if you want it you should get it... I'm like uh huh, he must be wanting to buy new sticks or something! But for now, I'm pretty much on another self-imposed spending freeze. Tuition for the boy will be next month... then the move.... so we shall see. Just know that the seed has been planting and is starting to grow like a weed!

Have a great Saturday everyone. I hope you enjoy your 4th and stay safe.

Are you feeling 'Unusual'?

2010-06-30T12:20:00.002-05:00

Hey Chickadees!
Wanted to get the slide show for Serene's cj posted. I can't wait to see these layouts in person! I must say.... some of you have done some really cool stuff!
And some of you have done some really strange stuff! :) I say that with love in my heart!!
Serene, I think you are going to love your cj when you get all the pages put in.
I rec'd an email from click it that Jenn has put her layouts in the mail. WooHoo! Wont be long now ladies! Great job everyone!

Rain Rain Go Away

2010-06-28T08:27:00.004-05:00

There appears to be rain in our forecast for most of the week. It needs to NOT! While I understand the grass and flowers and lakes and people need the rain...I'm being selfish. I'm afraid if it's raining then the contractors building the house for the people who are selling the house we are buying... they will be delayed! Told you I was being selfish. And since David says my momma should have named me Patience, you can guess I'm short in that department! I keep trying to tell myself that I've waited this long...what's a few more weeks. I'm just also not to good at listening! **sigh**

I can't help it. I've waited a very long time for what I never imagined could be. I just need to realize that God has His own time frame and that He does not need me rearranging the schedule! Thank you so much!

On the furniture note..... have you looked at furniture prices lately? OUCH! Ya know, I've never had brand new furniture... and now I can understand why! The money they want for something that you are only going to sleep on and put your socks and underware in. Are they crazy? And the decisions to make. Do you go from Queen to King? Well if you do then you'll need new sheets and comforter. Oh my... curtains too. And let me tell you... I'm starting to realize just how much mine and David's taste differ! I must take my camera with me into the stores because the journaling that can come from all of this will entertain the kids for years!

I realize it seems as if this is all I'm talking about...but it is consuming my thoughts daily! And to be honest, I think if I say one more word this week about house or yard or furniture David will strangle me.... and it's only Monday!

I did accomplish some major scrapbooking over the weekend. Not sure how...but I did! I worked some more on my mom's book and finally realized that it's ok if the album doesn't have a "traditional heritage" look to it. I can add some spice to it with color pizzaz if'n I want! I mean who's going to tell me not to!

With this page I'm back more to my style of paper layers and the busy look. For some reason I was trying to get away from that "busy" look because I thought that's what everyone would want to see. I have no idea why I thought I needed to do that.
This page still has less on it than normal for me... but I like it. It's ok without all the 'stuff', even though after looking at it I think something else needs to be near the ribbon. It looks a little unfinished. Plus my picure isn't very straight! I really like the way the chipboard letters turned out. I think this is probably only like the 3rd time I've covered chipboard in paper.... it looks so awesome and matches the page so perfect! So I'm not sure what my problem is with using chipboard! Yes I do think this page needs a little something else to give it that finished look... even if it's just a bow tied there at the ribbon.

I just love it when you guys stop in for a look... so thanks! Wishing you all a wonderful Monday!

One Weekend & Two Shots w/Dedra Long

2010-06-27T19:06:00.006-05:00

How many of us really take time to enjoy the little things in life? I mean the really little things. I know I tend to forget about the simple things that can bring a smile to my face. Dedra Long has added a challenge to her blog asking us to take a picture each Saturday and Sunday for a year to show the little things in life that we love, enjoy, take for granted, etc. "The things that capture the rhythm of everyday life." Sort of like a year in pictures of your life, except instead taking pictures everyday we are only taking them on the weekends. I'm hoping that through this challenge I will remember all that makes me happy... all that I at times take for granted... and mostly, all that God has blessed me with.

If you go to Dedra's blog, she has created tabs at the top of her blog. There are tabs that say home, life story, one weekend two shots. Click the one weekend two shots and she will have links to all that are taking this challenge. She has also said that anyone can jump in at anytime. You guys come play! Paula's playing and we are just super excited.

Going forward, I'm hoping to post my Saturday picture on Saturday and my Sunday on Sunday... but for now, you're getting them both on Sunday.

Saturday's picture

David putting new strings on the Les Paul

Sunday's picture

My hibiscus that sits at the end of my steps just minutes after it rained

Now, I must go and get things done so I can be ready for True Blood!

Unusual Things

2010-06-26T09:25:00.002-05:00

Hey Bloggers!

Not much going on over here today. Think David and I may run to town to look at some furniture. I drove by my house yesterday after work...yes I'm calling it my house.... yes I'm doing drive bys..... ANYWAY, that's not the point!...it's just beautiful over there. All the Crape Myrtles are blooming up and down the street. All I could think was, soon this will be my neighborhood and my yard is going to be AWESOME!

Tomorrow is Matt's birthday! He will be 23. My where does time go. I swear just a few days ago he was running around playing soccer and t-ball.

Here are my pages for Serene's cj. I just realized I hadn't posted them yet. Not sure what I was thinking.

These pages took a totally different turn than I had planned. I was planning on doing a more comical type layout, using my Paper Dolls Cartridge... but it just didn't work as suddenly I looked and the pages had a more elegant feel to them. I'm really pleased with the way these turned out. That's something I haven't been feeling with my layouts of late.
I used blue of course because it is Serene's favorite. The background paper is Bazzill Bling, #4 chipboard is from K & Company, all other products are Stampin Up!
The bird and flowers are stamped images that I colored and cut out. Oh, and the envelope is a Sizzix Die.

As always, thanks for stopping by!

Computer Programs...Grrrrrr

2010-06-22T07:47:00.002-05:00

It would seem that my morning was spent growling due to issues with the accounting and image hosting programs.....AGAIN. I love how support says, well it's working on my end! Cool beans for you...cause it's not for me! Besides, I don't believe the issue was ever about if it was working for you or not...but that it's not for ME. ME ME ME!

At any rate, I've done some looking around while waiting for these guys to get things straightened out. Saw some pretty cool layouts. Think I might have found a new blog to watch for a bit. Even spent some time at scrapbook.com, yet didn't order a single thing. I must warn you all though... I'm thinking I'm going to be needing some more cardstock soon. I'm always afraid I'm going to run out!

Speaking of paper, have you seen any of the printed paper by Websters Pages? I ordered some several weeks ago and all I can seem to do is look at it. I'm determined to use it on a layout but can't bring myself to cut it. In fact I was moaning about it at lunch and all DH could do is laugh at me. I'm not sure why he just doesn't understand! So... if you don't hear from me over the next few days, it will be because I am still sitting at my table trying to make myself cut this paper!

House news: We had the inspection done and saw the report yesterday. Just a couple of minor things listed on it. That's cool huh. You guys just have no idea how excited I am. I keep waiting for someone to pinch me.

Here's a couple of layouts I created for a color challenge. I don't think I would have picked these colors otherwise, but really like how they worked with the photos. Some of you may have already seen them over at the MM forum.

Looking at these, it's like something is missing. Good or not so good, I think during this time that I lost my mojo and had taken a break (that was way to long) from scrapping.... I've sort of lost something along the way. Last night I was looking at one of the layouts I'm working on and it's just like this blank area. Hmmmm, me thinks I need to keep looking for the mojo!

Thanks for stopping by. Wishing everyone a fabulous Mojo filled Tuesday!

Where's a good title when you need it?

2010-06-20T17:27:00.006-05:00

Hey All!
I hope everyone is having an enjoyable weekend. I've been fighting a headache all weekend. I was fine yesterday morning. On the phone with a friend I haven't talked to in some time. Just a matter of minutes after I hung up... I felt it hitting. The blurry vision, oh how I hate that! It amazes me sometimes how it can just come out of nowhere! Fine one second and then BAM! It's not near as bad right now, which means it's fairly tolerable... but still letting its presence be known. David and I did go to my grandparents today for Father's Day. We didn't stay long, but it was nice. Matt was able to come eat before work, but we missed Jess & Josh since they are in Boston!

I'm pretty proud of myself... In the last 7 days I've managed to complete 4 12x12 layouts and 2 8x8 ones. The best part... the day's not over yet!! They are both for challenges over at Memory Makers. I've now completed 3 challenges at MM, and that is really something for me!

While I'm not loving one of the layouts.. I'm just not going to obsess over it. I'm calling it done and moving on! I'm starting to feel my mojo coming back! We all know that is an awesome thing!

Both layouts are for my mom's heritage album. Although the second one doesn't look all that much like it belongs in an heritage album due to all the color. But ya know... it's not much fun to do the dark colors all the time and I can't imagine looking through an album with only dark heritagy (is that a word) colors. Besides... these colors (the pink) were just calling to me. It'll be ok. Some day off in the future the albums that are current for me today will be considered heritage.. and let me tell you... I DO NOT live in blacks, grays, and whites!

Ok... I'm outta here. I need to go lay in a dark quiet place I think so I can be feeling fine for True Blood!!! YES! Plus, I must go to work tomorrow.... cause
here's my news! David and I found a house... made an offer the night before we left for KY of all times.... and we are scheduled to close August 30th. I know... why so long you ask? The owners, soon to be the previous owners, are having a house a built and they asked if we'd agree to wait until then so their house would be finished. I was so excited at the time I was agreeing to anything... but now... well I wasn't very blessed in the patience department. So, I'm doing a lot of praying. While there's several things I could be praying for and at different times might... I'm mostly just praying that it all goes according to His plan. If we are meant to be there, then we will... even if it is 71 more days.

Just so you know... I'm doing a lot of giggling and clapping my hands too!

Wishing you a great Monday!

Where is Everyone?

2010-06-17T23:07:00.007-05:00

Where have you guys been? I've been waiting and waiting on you to get here! I mean what's the point in posting if you guys aren't here? I know... I have a lot of nerve! Well someone has to!

Man, it's been a busy few weeks. I'm not sure what all I've been doing, but I know what I haven't been doing!

Ok, let's get caught up! You guys remember Serene was here for a few days right? But before that was the retreat I went to. Then Serene came.... it was wonderful to have a scrappy friend here for my very own! I think we should be able to buy scrappy friends and keep them with our supplies... then take them out whenever we want to play!

Sorry.... got sidetracked. I do have a lot of that...oh what a pretty kitty moments that go on! Soooooooo, Serene came, then she left, :( then it was the big ole Blow Out golf tournament that David was in. I was out there most of the weekend with him and friends. Then we left for Kentucky for a week... where I hooked up with my scrappy friends Susan and Melissa! They are great! Then... oh wait, it's now.. so now here we are!

So see.... it's been go go go! Plus I have some totally fab exciting news...

I feel like I haven't been in my scraproom in for-EVER! Until this past Sunday... I managed to get in there that evening. I've been steadily working on some layouts. I've gotten another one done for the cj... plus almost 4 more that I'm trying to get done for all of Melissa's challenges over at the Memory Makers Forum. It's great fun... and I'm hoping to start posting them tomorrow. I try and take the pictures of them during the day so I can use sunlight from the window instead of my flash, which means at night when I've finished them I have to wait until the next day to take the pictures. Instead of taking pictures at lunch like normal I've been scrapping. I think maybe my mojo is coming back. Get this!... I'd told David I'd lost my mojo... he says get in there and find it! Like it's that easy! I was like, now why didn't I think of that! Anyway, (see... another pretty kitty moment).. my point is that I do have some layouts to share... so stay tuned people! Don't leave me again like you did this last time! Plus... I've not yet told you my most exciting news!!

I'm going to share some pics from the Blow Out with you. We had a great time!

David and his partner Kelly! They've been friends since high school I think... that's a really long time!

Denise and me.... in our very own golf cart. That's cause we were spectators and not players!!

John & Tona. Part of our Friday night crew and David's weekend golf buddy!

The guys..... from the left.... Tony, John, Kelly, and David.

Denise & Kelly! All smiles!!

Tona & Rhonda!! All smiles again!

Me & the hubby.... in happier times! He's about to leave me... you'll see in the next picture!

The hubby leaving me for another woman!

Saturday night entertainment!

Ok peeps... I've got to get busy! But I'll be back soon to share more pics and maybe the fab exciting news!

Sunshine Award!

2010-05-27T13:57:00.006-05:00

A few weeks back my friend Melissa bestowed the Sunshine Blog Award upon me.
It's her way of saying I bring sunshine into her world. Well, she didn't actually say those words...but I know that's what she meant! Isn't that just the sweetest! If you don't visit her blog, then you are missing out!

Here are the rules of the the award...

1. Put the award on your blog
2. Pass the award to other bloggers who bring you sunshine.
3. List the Nominees in your post.
4. Let the Nominees know you nominated them by leaving a comment on their blog.
5. Share the love and link to the person who gave you the award!

I of course can't list you all... even though I'd really like to. I can't list Melissa again, although she and her blog bring me great sunshine!

Erika - Her Blog
Paula - Her Blog
Jenn - Her Blog
Serene - Her Blog
Elaine - Her Blog

My list is in no particular order at all. I tried to pick bloggers that I haven't previously picked for other awards. Some of you I didn't pick because Melissa had or I knew one of the ones I've picked will want to pick you. I should actually put you all down because you ALL bring sunshine to my world! There are even a couple people who don't have a blog, but still help make my world all sunny!

Ok, that's it for now. I shall be back to tell you all that's happening in my world!

Melissa's CJ

2010-05-15T09:22:00.006-05:00

Next in line for our Daily Numbers CJ is Melissa's. If you not ever wandered over to her blog then you are missing out. She is one super uber talented Stampin Whiz! I have to be careful when I go to her blog... she always has something new up and it's always so pretty.. and I'm thinking "Oh I can make that!". So... I order the stuff.... repeatedly! Then it gets added to my someday stack of things to do..... someday. **sigh** You guys know what I'm talking about. Most of you have that someday stack!

Here is the slide show of her album. Pretty great isn't it!

I've got to get busy! I've got more cj pages to get done... do some house cleaning cause Serene will be here next Friday... and I think Jessica is coming this afternoon.

Here's a reminder of the CJ's and order.

Kathi's - 4 things I must take when traveling
Paula's - 3 favorite book characters
Elaine's- 4 things on your door welcome sign
Melissa's - 5 things I can not live without
Serene's - 4 unusual things you've done
Emma's- 3 favorite actors or actresses
Courtney's - 4 things I've repurposed for scrapbooking
Jessica's- 3 reasons why I love summer
Jenn's - 5 reasons I love being a woman
Lisa's - 4 things I miss while I am out of town
Jean's - 4 Verses that have spoken to you

Have a great weekend everyone!

I can't live without you Melissa!

2010-05-13T08:03:00.003-05:00

What I mean to say is 5 Things I can't live without...for Melissa's cj!

Here are my pages for Melissa's cj. After looking at them for the last month I still feel like something is missing, but darned if I can figure out what to put there.

I made some of the organza flowers... and while they are neat little things... I think I need to practice practice and practice some more. Kathi's look so much better! I know... maybe a lesson from Kathi when I see her next week would be good!

I put a little twist on my theme... not the standard can't live without you items.
Hope you like them Melissa!

Looks like we are in for more rain. I stepped outside a minute ago just to test the temp. I quickly came back inside wishing I had a jacket. Now tomorrow it will be in the 90's and we'll have tornado's popping up.

Have a great day everyone. Thanks for stopping by!!
Hugs!

Flip, Flop, & Complete!

2010-05-11T17:40:00.002-05:00

Hallo All!
Yes I meant to say Hallo instead of hello...cause that's how Bones says it! Who is Bones you say... oh my! I'll let Paula answer that one.

I am hoping you all had a wonderful Mother's Day! I did!! We all went to my parent's house and had lunch. Jessia cooked a dish and it was most yummy. Afterwards we played a little cards. Let's just say Jess & Josh won...AGAIN... and I never managed to do #9 from my list below! :(

Here's a little slide show of a mini album I've finished. This is my first one ever to make for me and I'm thinking it's pretty great. I mean I can say I have finished it! It is done! I like being able to say that! It's just too cute! It was a gift from Serene,the kit.. oh about a year 'n a half ago... and yes I am behind in my projects thank you for noticing that! Everything you see comes from the kit, well except for the letters that spell Jess and Fun. I used my punchies from Stampin Up! to make embellies out of the paper. There were a couple of journaling spot stamps, a little bling, and my label machine. But the rest is all kit! It was really fun putting it together and it's perfect for a few of the pictures Jessica and I have from when we went to Florida back in 2007. It was a work trip for me... can't you tell I got a lot accomplished! I really like the way my little book turned out.
Thank you so much Serene for getting this kit for me.. I just adore it!
(no people...this is not the first time I thanked her for it! Come on... I'm not THAT rude!)

So, last week Melissa tells us that there are new items over in the clearance part of SU!. Of course I just have to go look...first page is some of the yummiest paper! Of course I had to have it! Ok, knowing that I'm not going to want to turn loose of it once I get it... I order 2 packs... ok...2! It was delivered today. First thing I think when I see my new paper...
"Oh my gosh... this is so pretty... I can't use it... I'll never be able to get any more of it!"
I've got it so bad with the paper I don't even think a 24 step program would help me!

I'm off to clean my scrap table now. How I make such a mess is beyond me!
As always... thanks for stopping by!

Ten Things That Make Me Happy!

2010-05-05T07:49:00.007-05:00

My friend Susan, who loves the color orange as much as I do, has bestowed upon me (even if it was a few weeks ago)
the Ten Things That Makes Me Happy award! Since right now I am trying to focus on all things happy.. what better time to do this post than now!

Sooooooooo.... here is my list... although there are so many more than 10 things that make me happy!

1. Sunshine, green grass, and flowers blooming!

2. Weekends with nothing to do other than watch chick flicks while I'm scrapping!

3. Matthew's laughter and Jessica's smile. Watching a funny movie with Matt is funnier just because of his laughing.... it's a deep from the belly laugh and just makes me smile! Jessica's smile just lights up her whole face and you can't help but notice just how beautiful she is when she is smiling!

4. Scrapping with Jessica and Emma! I don't even mind them raiding my stash.

5. Motorcycle rides to no where in particular!

6. My Kiara puppy doing her "lets go outside" spin

7. Emails from David. Seeing his name in my inbox never ever fails to put a big smile on my face!

8. New Flip Flops!

9. Turning up the music when I am cleaning house and while no one is there. Dancing around like no one is looking and singing like I'm a star!

10. Sitting at my mom's table with all 4 of the kids... playing cards... everyone trying to talk over each other.... going out before Josh is down! Giggles and squeals... it's perfect!

Now it's my job to pass this one to 3 people.... I looked back to try and make sure I didn't double pick so if you've already been chosen I apologize and as always there is no pressure or obviously a time frame to do this! My 3 to pick are.....

Kathi
Paula
Barb

Retreat Happiness!

2010-05-04T12:48:00.005-05:00

Eeekkkk... look how long it's been since I posted! What have I been doing? Nothing I'm sad to report. I've just been in a funk... and haven't wanted to do a darn thing. Don't know what is wrong with me, but it's about time this funk goes away! Today is a new day.... and I say let's turn things around!

Sooooo, this past week-end I went to Colleyville, Tx. and had myself some retreat happiness! My friend Kathi invited me to a scrap retreat. I have to tell you, I was really hesitant about going. The whole going to spend a couple of days with people I've never met... having to leave my scrap stash... driving to the metroplex all by myself which is something I've NEVER done...instead of being all excited about going I was nervous and dreading it just a little. OH MY GOSH! It was awesome! I had the best time and can not wait until the next one! The ladies there were just amazing and so awesome. I made some new friends and discovered that I'm really not that far away!

I guess I shouldn't rave about them all.... for not everyone was nice. "What" you say? No, really, I promise. One person, no matter how hard I tried to win her over, it just wasn't happenin'! "You can't be serious" you are thinking! I have proof! In black and white... well maybe a little green too. Below is a two page layout she made for me as a gift... I guess to remember our week-end. I was so excited when she gave it to me... then I started reading it!

Go ahead... I'll wait while you read it yourself.

Can you imagine someone you are trying to befriend giving you something like that? Why I was just in shock! And she really talked to me the whole time like that! And can you believe that I... me.... never said a word! I know, shocking! But it's true! She did say though that they would give me another chance and she did sign it love Twee.... so maybe there is hope yet! A girl can dream can't she!

Twee really was a lot of fun... and we got along perfectly. I'm not real sure what she was like the crop before because everyone kept telling me I'd brought out a different side of her, that she was always so quiet before?? Leave it to me huh?
She did make some yummy desserts and gave me something super that I'll post tomorrow! I sure hope she's at the next one.... cause I might just have to make her something a little special!

Don't we just look like we are having a blast! There's three of us missing from the picture. I didn't realize until I was loading the picture.

That's Twee on the far left. She doesn't look like she could be mean does she?

I really did have a great time. The place was so nice... the beds so comfy. I have a feeling that if they will have me I will be a regular! A huge huge thanks to Kathi and Kelly for putting it all together and being such great hostesses and to everyone else for taking me in and being so nice!

Thanks for stopping by and I promise not to take so long to get back here!

Toes Toes Toes!

2010-04-07T16:39:00.001-05:00

It's a wonder I have any! Do you want to know how many times I stumped them while at home just for lunch only? 5! Can you believe it? Talk about pain! I don't know what's going on anymore.. I seem to just walk into walls, doors, and furniture!

Soooo, I was trolling through facebook earlier and saw where my momma had posted she was married. My mom just got her a facebook page a few days ago and I think it's great! I started to go leave a cute little comment on it like saying "yeppers, to my daddy!" But before I could I noticed she had also updated her status listing her children. Imagine my shock and surprise to see that she named both of my brothers, but not me! Now what am I to do with this information? Go into a panic??? Feel sorry for myself and ask why why oh why doesn't my mother love me?? Go on a coke float binge??? Nahhhhh.... instead... for all to see.... all my cousins, all the people I grew up with, and all the people who live in the community where my parents are... (keep in mind this is Country USA where everyone knows your name) I posted in my status update.... "just found out I was adopted!" Then on her page I posted "Well then who is MY momma"? It's only been an hour and already people have commented "WHAT" so you think rumors are not flying... you think by dinner time people wont be calling my momma... perhaps even her own sister? That will teach her!

While I haven't created any scrappy goodness in the last few days... probably because I'm so upset over being a newly discovered orphan.... I did get some scrappy happiness in the mail. My SU! (thank you Melissa) order came today. Here's a smidgen of it. Let me just say, if you've wondered about getting the ink holder... I already know I am going to love it! I got it for free! Yes that's right free! It was my hostess goodies. Well, I think it might have cost me $15... but that's good!

Of course you just knew I was going to at some point get the new Tim Holtz Sizzix dies didn't you. I didn't get them all at once...don't worry. But I do have 5 so far and am sure I'll be getting some more. Do let me tell you this. When I ordered them it said you needed the special size blocks to use with them. Having to order most of my supplies online I was worried if I didn't get the blocks, that I would need them and not be able to use the dies until I ordered them.... so I spent the $6 I think and got them. Save that money for something else. The regular blocks work fine.

Do you see the new Bazzill Bling? You know when the email came in showing this new product I thought oh I've got to have me some of that! Then I saw the price. :( Quickly I knew I wouldn't be getting any... but I told David about it and his theory... it's cheaper than a burger and fries. Hmmmmmm, I don't even eat burgers and fries very often! :) Soooo, I thought ok I'll get a couple and just see. :( :( :(
While they are pretty, I just think they are way over priced. And that's just not something you can see by online shopping like I do. Not to mention how thick they are. I'm not sure I've ever used anything this bulky on any of my layouts. I'm pretty sure I wont be buying anymore of these.

As always, thanks so much for taking time to stop by. Now I'm off to see if my momma has admitted I'm hers or if I need to find a new one!

Elaine's CJ Slideshow

2010-04-07T13:31:00.005-05:00

Oh my goodness, talk about falling down on the job. I am just now posting the slide show to Elaine's cj. I am quite sure there are those of you who are not surprised. At any rate, it's here now.... and just look at the pages for her book. I am sure she is going to be very pleased.
Good Job Ladies!

Dream Man!

2010-04-06T19:58:00.002-05:00

This is going to be a quick post. I had uploaded this layout to the Memory Makers forum and the picture there is just so small. So by having it here, everyone can read the journaling cause they are all going
What's it say?
What's it say?

Elaine, does this guy look familiar to you? How about you Serene?

I'm not happy with my title. It doesn't pop enough... Melissa made a couple of suggestions. One was shadowing which I thought of, but forgot the font name and size I used...cool huh! Another suggestion she made was a mat I think. I may just have to see about that!

My fancy shape pages were made using my Cricut and Songbird Cart. The little circles and hearts were made with my SU! punches and think I used a Nestie on a couple of circles and the flower shapes.

As always, thanks for looking!

Lions & Tigers & Bears

2010-04-02T15:45:00.002-05:00

OH MY!

Guess what I just realized! I am so giddy!!! My self imposed scrapbook spending freeze that I've been under.. yes I know I haven't talked about it much because it really depressed me.... but anyway... When I put myself under it, it was for the first quarter of the year... you know Jan, Feb, and March.

IT'S APRIL!

The freeze is lifted! And tomorrow... I'm going to Wichita Falls. There's a Michaels and a Hobby Lobby and a LSS! Can I get a Woot Woot!! Annnnnnddddd....
hehehe....
the guys will be out golfing... it will just be Jess, Emma, and me!
Can anyone say

DANGER
DANGER

Revision

2010-03-31T13:41:00.003-05:00

Hi All!

It's a wonderful sunny beautiful day here in Duncan Oklahoma! People are out walking in shorts and ya know, I really think I belong out there! My boss just got a new puppy and he's not been sleeping well, so if he'd just take a little nap I'd run outside and play!

I did a little more work on my layout for Elaine's cj and wanted to share it. The guitar just looks so much better... at least I think so. I did have to make a minor/hmmmm major adjustment to the neck. It was way to skinny! I added some brads on it along with the string.

The overall layout is still pretty stark compared to my normal... but I like it. From the picture you can't really see the colors in the printed paper which is a little sad. The one paper looks white but it actually has pale pink flowers on it. I did try black ink on the vellum and didn't like it as well. Anyway, I'm calling it done and moving it to the stack!