Live The Moment

CHA Winter highlights

2012-02-09T16:27:00.000-08:00

Hi all! I was lucky enough to go to Anaheim for this year's winter show! My first time ever! I've always been able to go to summer show since Rosemont is about 2 hours north of here. I convinced my husband that I "needed" to go to California since he is taking so many guy trips this year! Since I am a stay at home mom of two, it's tough to work out me being gone during the week. Luckily, bugs aren't as active this time of year so I could go! :)

I flew out to Orange County on the Wednesday before the show in order to sit in with my boss, Amy, for Crafter's Home. The first full day was AWESOME!! We were treated to a technique tag class with the one and only Tim Holtz! I learned so many new things and got to play with a lot of Ranger's products..something as a scrapbooker, I hadn't taken time for. Now, I can incorporate these techniques into my layouts and mini books! By the end of the day, my fingers were black with ink/stain but it was worth it!

By the late afternoon, my good friend and scrap partner in crime, Malika Kelly, had arrived. We were able to see Ranger's and Tim's new products. I have to say Tim's Stamp2Cut is awesome!!

Friday, we sat in and listened to different companies show their new lines. Many I was excited to see in person! Especially Teresa Collins, Echo Park, and My Mind's Eye! That night Amy, Malika, and I drove to Costa Mesa to Oh Scrap! for a class with one of my all time favorite designers, Teresa Collins! I heart TC! We put together a mini book with her new Fabrications line (pics to come soon). She even gave away pieces from her new lines! My all time favorite is "Every Day Moments". I cannot wait until it arrives in our store! I've already called dibs to teach with. :)

Here Mal is getting her new Signature Series TC idea book signed!

Saturday, Malika and I did a class with Sizzix to learn the Eclips die-cut machine. If you are thinking of purchasing a new system, this one is for you. Especially if you are a fan of Tim's..you will WANT/NEED to have the Stamp2Cut cartridges. We were able to test them out and I can say it's very user friendly and all-in-all COOL!

Sunday was the big day...opening of the show!! It's so fun to walk the floor and see all the new products!

Our first booth was Authentique (had to ask about the company pug they had posted on FB. Sadly, they didn't bring her). I really love the Celebrate line. As always, Authentique has great die cuts and stickers to go along with their papers.

I snapped some pictures in the 7gypsies booth. I really love their new travel line! I'm always amazed at the samples they have in their booth!

One of the most exciting highlights of the trip (yes I'm a geek!) is seeing our number one idol, Ali Edwards! Malika and I used to "stalk" Ali quite a bit. So happy to see her back! She even remembered us! LOL Our store is going to start carrying Studio AE stamps from Technique Tuesday! LOVE!!!!!

Ali is so cool!!!!

Next, we hit up the Echo Park booth. Love their team and I think everyone will be excited to see their new lines!

Here is a layout with the "This and That: Charming" collection. Cool colors!!

Amy, Malika, Madison from EP, and me

We also visiting Teresa Collins' booth a couple of times...mainly to go back and get a picture with her when she wasn't so busy! :)

We saw some familiar faces from back home, as well. Tammy Tutterow is now with Sizzix and was working the booth:

And we talked with the very awesomely talented, Wendy Vecchi!

Lots of great stuff coming out by Wendy! I heart her and can't wait for her to teach at The Scrapbooking Studio again.

Unfortunately, we didn't get to see everything on the floor as we ran out of time :( I will mention a few additional companies who I really am looking forward to:

Before we left the show, we HAD to get this picture for Lori Batronis. Or we would be flogged upon our return to IL! I'm sure Tim thought we were absolutely nuts. And I'm glad security didn't escort us out of the building.

You owe me Batronis!! LOL

That evening, Amy had signed Malika and I up for a canvas/gelatos class with Donna Downey. Now, I am not much of a mixed media girl, so I was a little out of my element. Any apprehension I felt, was quickly gone by Donna's fun demeanor. Oh my, that girl is hilarious!! I loved taking her class, even though I didn't feel like I did a good job with the techniques. It's always good to be challenged!

Monday was back to reality for Malika and I. :( But, we were glad we had the experience of going. Not to mention getting to enjoy the warm, California weather! And oh ya, who can forget Disneyland??!

Just Us

2012-02-06T12:33:00.000-08:00

Hi all! Sorry for my lack of updating. It's been busy around here not only with the usual but I have been covering a maternity leave at my old dental office. It's been an adjustment to have to work outside the home, but I am happy to see my old patients as well as work my some friends! Luckily, I have some half days (like today).
Last week, I was able to go to CHA Winter in Anaheim with my boss, Amy Sprague, and friend, Malika Kelly. I attended Crafter's Home with Amy on the first day and we were able to do a technique class with the one and only Tim Holtz! Malika and I also did a class with Sizzix and tried out the Eclips, as well as Tim's Stamp2Cut cartridges. Very cool! On Friday night, we drove to Oh Scrap! in Costa Mesa to take a class with my favorite designer, Teresa Collins! In class, we put together a mini book with one of her new lines Fabrications.
Today I am sharing a mini book I did for The Scrapbooking Studio using Teresa's Carolina Breeze line. I love the colors, as well as the texture of this paper!

Here is a card I made using the same line. The birdcage is Maya Road chipboard piece; I used a Stampin Up bird punch with my patterned paper.

Next, I am sharing a two page layout I did using Authentique's Journey

line. I love their paper and how each line has its own die cuts and stickers!

I love these pictures from last winter. My sister was brave and took the cousins sledding. It was a really cold day but the kids had fun. I know they keep waiting for some substantial snow so they can go again!

I promise to update later this week with some pictures from CHA!

Thanks for reading! -Jen

Happy Holidays with Bella Boulevard

2011-12-30T12:39:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! Today I am sharing a cute Maya Road stocking coaster album I did for The Scrapbooking Studio. I dug out some old pictures of my daughter, Hailey, when she was just 4 years old. We used to have my family over the weekend prior to Christmas to exchange gifts. My dad would always dress up as Santa....he'd sneak out the backdoor and come around front. It was always fun to watch Hailey..not sure if she ever figured out that it was her grandpa or not. She is probably the only grandchild that would remember...Dad hasn't dressed up since Mom passed away.

love the penguins in this line!

Hailey's face is spaghetti stained..we had Avanti's for dinner. Her favorite!

I also used Basic Grey's Hello Luscious line to create this two page layout and tag!

I love the already made rosette flowers! I don't know about anyone else, but I struggle with making them!

Gratitude and thanks....

2011-11-07T16:01:00.000-08:00

November is a month to reflect on what you are thankful for. I try everyday to thank God for the multitude of blessings He has given me. And because I am human, it's not always an easy thing to do. Sometimes I ask "why God?" But, because of my faith in Jesus, I know someday I will have an answer. The holiday season is hard for me. There is still a huge gaping hole in my life because my mom is not here. I hate it. Daily.

Knowing my mother, I know she would not want me to spend one second crying over her. She'd want me to enjoy every moment. Since losing her, I have changed my attitude and done that. So, I'm thankful for the little, everyday things in life. Mostly, I'm thankful for God giving me a wonderful mother and the time I did have with her.

Sharing a layout I did using Authentique's Uncommon line. I absolutely LOVE the colors.

Here I used Tim Holtz's dress form die and covered it with patterned paper, then added embellishments.

Counting down to Halloween!

2011-10-28T09:29:00.000-07:00

It's almost here! Three more days! The forecast for Central Illinois looks good for Monday. I will be helping in my son's kindergarten class in the afternoon for their Halloween party. The school always has a costume parade around the block :) I plan on dressing up as a prisoner to go with my son's police costume! LOL

Tonight, I am hoping my husband will take the kids downtown to do their annual trick or treat event. Many of the businesses around the square will be open to give out candy. Tomorrow, we are going to carve pumpkins and decorate cookies...both annual traditions!

Both kiddos are off of school today for parent teacher conferences. We are having a relaxing day at home (Noah is still in his pj's and it's 11:30). I am working the crop tonight at the store, so I see a nap in my future!! Plus, I didn't sleep very well last night.

Today I am sharing a mini book I did using Echo Park's Apothecary Emporium. I created this as a sample for The Scrapbooking Studio.

10 more days until Halloween!

2011-10-21T14:05:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year! Some of my friends think I'm weird because I love Halloween so much..but I know there are others out there like me! :)
I love dressing up and decorating the house, trick or treating (the chocolate). It's just a fun time to be someone else.

Today I am sharing a mini book I did with Pink Paislee's Hocus Pocus line from last year. The book is a Clear Scraps chipboard mini, but I did add in some of the fun Clear Scraps acrylic pages.

This weekend we will be busy with IWU's homecoming. Tonight, my husband and I are going to dinner with "the group". Tomorrow, I'm getting my big butt up early to do the Ryan Beaupre Memorial 5k, followed by a day of tailgating. Should be a nice day. :)

Hoping to share more projects with you this weekend!

Fall is here....

2011-10-18T15:09:00.000-07:00

Well, I've managed to neglect my blog again. I've been really busy at the store. I'm happy to say that the store has been a huge success! So nice to have a home scrapbook store again! :) I love working there and it's nice to see familiar faces.

We just had our grand opening this past Saturday and were lucky enough to have Jason from My Mind's Eye come and do make and takes. It was a fun and very busy day!

One exciting thing is that we just had our first design team call. I am coordinating the team and let me tell you how tough it will be to make the decision. Lots of talented crafters in Central IL! I'm excited for the potential team members and can't wait to see what they make!

I myself have been working on store samples, as well as my first class. I'm teaching a mini Christmas book using Echo Park's Season's Greetings line. I really love the colors!

Today I'm sharing two store samples. The first is a mini book using Jillibean Soup's Apple Chowder fall line.

The second is a layout I did using the Pebbles pet line.

I'm back!

2011-09-24T17:55:00.000-07:00

So sorry for my absence! I have been swamped with life's going ons and such. The best news is that most of this month, I was helping to open the Bloomington, IL location of The Scrapbooking Studio! Many of us worked long hours to clean, paint (lots of paint), put displays together, and of course put fun product out! Our opening day was September 17th! And what a fun day it was. So nice to see familiar faces! Amy will be bringing in new product and we have much planned for the upcoming months!! :)

Lori, my good friend and cohort, have been working on getting some samples made for the store. Lori and I LOVE Halloween. Actually that is a bit of an understatement. We are a obsessed with Halloween! It's been fun doing some crafting with all of the adorable lines that are out this year! This week, I put together a 7gypies printer's tray with Authentique's Glowing line. I love the colors and die cuts! I also used Pink Paislee's mistables which is another new product. It's easy to color with Maya Road mist/Tattered Angels or stamp. Or do what I did and do both! :)

Since the holidays are on the horizon, we've been playing with the Christmas lines as well. Let me just say there are so many cute lines, I don't know where to start!

Here I used Jillibean Soup's Christmas Eve Chowder. I love the colors and absolutely adore the penguins! The one thing I love about Jillibean Soup is that they have die cuts, as well as cardstock stickers with their lines. Not to mention many other fun embellishments!

Unfortunately, our house hasn't sold yet. I told my husband today that I think God is telling us to stay put. I'm ready to move on and not have our lives on hold anymore. I'm also tired of being stressed about keeping our house clean, as well as getting my hopes up. We are thinking of bringing our POD back next week. I'm so itching to put our fall and Halloween decorations out!

I promise I will be updating my blog more often! In one week, look on The Scrapbooking Studio's blog for an exciting announcement involving our Bloomington store!!

Happy August!

2011-08-01T11:33:00.000-07:00

Wow, cannot believe it's August 1st already! The summer has flown by, but it always seems to. My kiddos start school in just a little over two weeks. I'm both dreading the day but also excited. My 5 yr old starts kindergarten. It's so bittersweet that he's growing up so fast. I am going to miss having him at home. Our 8 yr old starts 3rd grade and will be 8 the end of the month. She's already acting like a tween.
The nice thing about having them both in school will be that I can get more done at home. I say that and I'm sure I will be busier than ever. I have vowed to devote one day a week to scrapbooking! It will be nice to get into some sort of a routine, as well. The last few weeks have been crazy as I've been subbing a lot in a couple different dental offices. I never know when I'm going to get called so it changes from week to week. I feel guilty for taking the kids to the sitter so much but I figure I should work when I can. The extra money is nice and after school starts, I may not get a call for months!

My extra "fun money" can go towards new scrap goodies this fall! I'm so excited to say that Bloomington/Normal has a new scrapbook store opening next month! My friend, Amy Sprague, has an AWESOME store in Moline, IL and has decided to open a second location here. As most of you Central IL scrappers know, my beloved Scrapbook Friendz closed in May. It's so great that we will have our very own Scrapbooking Studio! I had the chance to go to the CHA summer show with Amy and I can tell you she has ordered a TON of new product! Opening date is scheduled for September 17th, so make sure you come visit. The store will be located in the old Scrapbook Friendz site!

Speaking of CHA, my friend Malika and I were able to go up for an overnight to Rosemont. Monday night, we were able to go to dinner with Amy and Stacy from The Scrapbooking Studio. We had a huge group for dinner...let's just say there was so much talent at that one table!! So much fun!
Tuesday, we hit the show and as usual, were bowled over by all of the fabulous lines!! Definitely loved Maya Road's new goodies, as well as all of Teresa Collins paper lines!! Cannot wait to get my crafty hands on them to make something!

group photo after dinner

Two weeks ago, I had my 20 yr high school reunion. I still think there is no way I can be this old LOL I had a blast with my classmates...stayed out way too late! There is already talk of having a 25th reunion since we all had so much fun!

me with my BFF's since 7th grade

Since I've been working so much I haven't had much time for crafting. But, I did make this mini album for some friends of mine when I was at a crop at The Scrapbooking Studio. I always make my friends an album of an annual Christmas party we attend. They say they like the books...so I keep making them. LOL I'm always about 6 months behind though.

*more pics to come* having issues with uploading my pictures to Blogger today!

Get your Paper Life freebie today!

2011-07-14T11:35:00.000-07:00

It is CHA time and I am loving all of the sneak peeks and give aways!! Amy Coon at The Paper Life joining in and giving away a free printable from her awesome store! Go here to download and print these adorable journaling spots! I love how you are able to print your paper and embellishments right at home from your computer. All you need is white cardstock! I created a mini book with her "Just Beachy" line.

My husband left for Haiti this past Sunday for a pest control mission trip with the NPMA. He is scheduled to come home today, but like Sunday, his flights have been delayed/cancelled. He was supposed to come home this afternoon but now is scheduled to get in at 8:40pm. Please pray he gets in on time! The kids and I are going to pick him up..I know they are looking forward to it. I've missed him a lot!

So in the meantime, I'm cleaning house/doing laundry. All of the fun things us housewives get to do! I hope to sneak in some creating time later. Although we have an open house this weekend and my scrapbook room looks near perfect LOL

Next Monday afternoon, my friend Malika and I, are headed up to Rosemont for the summer CHA show!! Cannot wait! We are having dinner with our friends from The Scrapbooking Studio in Moline, as well as..Tammy Tutterow. :) Never met her before but am big fan!! I'm excited to see all of the new paper lines and goodies that are coming out!!

Curious to see what are some of your favorites?

It's hot out there...

2011-07-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

Central Illinois has been hit with its first official heatwave of the summer! Can't say I'm very excited about it either. I love summer, but really dread the humidity (unless I'm poolside).

It's been a busy week around here...we've had two showings, plus an open house today. I feel like all I have been doing lately is cleaning! LOL Praying that we get an offer soon...both my husband and I would like to be moved before the new school year starts. But, we've always prayed for God's will...so its in His time, not ours. :)

Our daughter, Hailey, is at her first overnight church camp this weekend. I got to have lunch with her today. She is having fun but I know she will be worn out when she gets home, not to mention starving. The girl is so picky...she's hardly eaten anything. I promised her a good dinner out, as well as a major scrubdown when she gets home LOL

During the open house, my husband took our son to see Cars 2 (again)...since I was kidless I splurged and got a much needed mani/pedi. :)
Since its so hot outside, I'm going to share this 7gypsies accordian book I did with the Lucky Girl Crafts' June kit "Hullabaloo". I love all of the colors and it was a lot of fun to work with! (BTW, I think I've had this 7gypsies album for ages....shows how much of a scraphoarder I am! LOL).

Everyone have a fun and safe 4th of July weekend!!

June 29th

2011-06-30T11:43:00.000-07:00

June 29th, 2009 is a day I will always remember. It is the day my beautiful mother passed away. She had battled Stage IV lung cancer for just two short months. By the time she was diagnosed, the cancer was too far advanced; her body already weak. Mom probably didn't weigh more than 80 lbs by the time she died.

My dad, sisters, and I were with Mom when she died...just loving on her while crying our eyes out. I remember feeling relieved that she was out of pain. And that I wouldn't have to walk into the house and see my mother so frail, when all of my life she had been so strong and energetic. Mom always had a smile for you, a hug. You would walk into the kitchen and she'd ask you if you needed anything. Mom was a giver.

I remember just living on adrenaline while Mom was sick...praying constantly to God to heal my mother. Or that this was all a horrible dream that I would wake from. Even til the end, Mom tried to comfort all of us, as well as ensure us she was ok. She would tell us, "My body is sick but my soul is healthy". Still, even now, its hard to find comfort in that. Just plainly because she isn't here. I believe 100% in God's plan and that it is a good thing Mom isn't in pain. But, as I said, she isn't here. She's not watching her grandbabies get bigger (she LOVED being a grandma). I can't pick up the phone and share something the kids said or did. I can't meet her for Chinese over her lunch hour anymore.

I know if Mom was here, she would tell people to stop smoking. Mom smoked most of her life...and it killed her. Lung cancer has also taken my maternal grandparents, a great aunt, and a cousin.

Miss you Mama every hour of every day. My life is not the same without you!! It never will be. I can't wait to see you again in heaven.

Donna Ann Witt

August 19, 1954-June 29th, 2009

The Paper Life sneak peeks!

2011-06-27T11:32:00.000-07:00

The very talented and awesome Amy Coon has some exciting sneak peeks over at The Paper Life!! Very excited for her and all that she has coming up!

Amy was nice enough to share a layout I did with her Country Estate line. :)

Meet Me in St. Louis........

2011-06-24T12:42:00.000-07:00

The family and I are headed to St. Louis overnight. My husband was given 4 free tickets to tonight's Cardinals's game. Unfortunately, the kids weren't excited about going. So, Chris invited our good friends, the Strohbeck's, to go with him. The kids and I are going to hang out at the hotel pool and probably rent a movie.

Tomorrow, Chris and the kids are heading back home and I'm going to visit my bestest friend, Natalie, who is currently in treatment getting help for her eating disorder. I haven't seen her in months and I'm just over the moon excited to spend some time with her!!

In honor of our friends Jeni and Craig, as well as my Natalie, going to share a mini dog album I did for Hailey's teacher last month. I used a 4x4 acrylic Maya Road coaster album. I love how tiny it is! My paper was Basic Grey's Max and Whiskers. The cute pop up doggie embellishments are by KI. Very simple but thought Mrs. Wilson could use it as a brag book for her Herman :)

paper flower tutorial

2011-06-20T14:41:00.000-07:00

A few friends have asked how I have made these flowers, so thought I'd put it up on my blog. By no means did I come up with it, as I'm sure I saw it in Creating Keepsakes LOL. Anyway, they are very easy to make and cute!

1. Using any size circle punch, punch out circle from any double sided paper.

2. Using scissors, cut counterclockwise starting with outside of circle, circling until you reach the center.

3. Once you have cut, starting with the outside, fold paper in on itself.

4. Use a liquid glue (such as Glossy Accents) to adhere flower to base.

5. Adhere embellishment (buttons, Dew Drops, blingage) to center of your flower with liquid adhesive.

6. If desired, use distress ink on edges.

Life is Good....

2011-06-20T14:28:00.000-07:00

That is my dad's motto: Life is Good. I hope everyone who celebrated had a good Father's Day. My family got together earlier this week and had dinner at my dad's. The kids had fun walking down to his new pond that he and a friend just installed. As one of his gifts, I made him this mini book capturing his 50th surprise birthday party last July.

One of the most awesome things about my dad is that he's is always there for us. Always has been. He and my mom met when I was a bratty 13 yr old teenager. It had been my mom, me and my brother for awhile. I was pretty territorial when it came to my mom. Thank God he stuck it out with me through my growing pains. I know it wasn't easy! I love him for that. My dad is techinically my step dad but he's Dad to me. He's the one who walked me down the aisle; the one my kids call Grandpa.

I'm grateful for the way he loved my mother...always showing her how special she was. I know Mom is proud of the way my dad has taken care of us kids as well as how he's tried to fill the void with the grandkids.

Love you Dad!!!

School's out!

2011-05-30T16:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Summer to everyone! Well, I guess it's the unofficial start of summer! My kids had their last day this past Thursday. I know some schools don't get out until this week. We've seemed to fall right into the summer routine with being outside (unless its storming) and some swimming! I can't believe it's almost June.

Our baby boy finished his last year of preschool. I cried when I put him on the bus :( I cannot even fathom both of my kids being in school all day next year. I won't know what to do with myself LOL (ok at least one day will be devoted to scrapbooking!).

I made this 6x6 acrylic Clear Scraps album for Noah's teacher using the Memory Works "Simple Stories" school line. I love love love all of the lines!! I found them at a scrapbook store over in Peoria, IL and had to resist buying all three :) Noah had the same teacher, Mrs. Bennett for both years of preschool. She has a little guy that just finished kindergarten. We will miss her a lot!

Happy Friday!

2011-05-13T10:03:00.000-07:00

Noah and I just got back from walking in the Relay for Life at my daughter's school. It's something I've done with her every year. Two years ago, when she was in kindergarten, I walked with her while my mom was in the hospital battling against lung cancer. Today, Hailey has on a shirt that she decorated that has my mom's picture on it. I know out of all the grandkids, it is the hardest for Hailey, as she is the only one who remembers Mom. I'm sure her grandmother is smiling down today as she sees Hailey be a cheerleader in the fight against cancer.

This week, one of my sisters celebrated her 30th birthday. We gathered at a restaurant in Peoria to celebrate her big day! I made this printers tray as one of her gifts. I used pictures I have taken over the last year or so of her daughter, Sidney. I used My Mind's Eye Fine and Dandy Tickled Pink collection. (love the boy version as well!)

Before dinner, my brother-in-law, Andrew announced that they are expecting baby number 2!! So excited for them!! Will have a new niece or nephew come January! :)

One more piece of news, albeit sad. The local scrapbook store I've been working at for the past almost 5 years announced that they are closing their doors. :( We had our "closeout sale" this past Saturday. I worked most of the day and it was absolutely crazy. I'm so sad to see the store go...if I had the money, I would have bought the store from them. Maybe someday I can open up a store of my own. Thanks to Jim and Margaret for being such great bosses and giving me a wonderful place to work!

Lots of errands to run this afternoon. I'm going to be starting on a 12x12 wedding album that has to be done by next Friday. I guess I work well under pressure?? LOL

So did you see it?

2011-04-23T14:31:00.000-07:00

For some reason, I can't upload a bigger picture. But, my friends and I went to see "Water For Elephants" last night and it was awesome!! Nevermind that Robert Pattinson is the hottest thing to walk this earth (besides my husband of course). I had read the book a few years ago and loved it. I was so happy to hear that they were going to make it into a movie. I was even more excited when I found out RPatz himself was playing the male lead!! *swoon*

Anyway, I highly recommend it! Its a great story set in the Great Depression. I don't think you need to read the book first, but I always love to read so I recommend the book too!

It's a beautiful Saturday here in Central IL. The sun is FINALLY shining and its a good temp. My friend, Michelle, and I went for a nice run this morning. This afternoon, I took the kids to see "Rio". A very cute movie.

Today, I'm sharing a two page layout I did with Teresa Collins' "Celebration" line (which I totally puffy heart love!). I love all of the colors and and prints! Especially the print where you can cut out triangles to make your own cute banner! :)

Happy Sunday

2011-04-17T14:27:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Still been very busy around here. We've had two open houses so far and not many people walk through :( But, it's in God's hands so we're just waiting and praying. At least our house has been clean! LOL The kids have been really good about keeping their rooms and play areas picked up.

I also lost my grandmother on the 8th. She had been diagnosed earlier this year with Stage IV lung cancer. Grandma had been in poor health for a few years unfortunately. I have felt a lot of stress lately missing my mom on top of this. It brings back a lot of feelings of when Mom passed away. I miss her every day!

For Grandma's funeral, I was in charge of doing the photo collages and came across a lot of great old pictures. This one is of me and my mom..I must have been 18 months or so? Mom look so young. I'm sure she was no older than 19. It's just been so different going through life without her. I know she's with me, but I sure wish I could pick up the phone to call her.

I'm trying to not let the stress get to me, but its been tough. I am also worried about a good friend of mine as well. I just keep praying things will get better for her. I feel helpless right now.

Today, I'm sharing a mini book I did for my hair dresser who had her first baby in February. It's a little plain for my liking..but I find that when you don't have pictures before hand, it's tough to embellish. Anyone else have this problem? Maybe its just me. LOL Honestly, my creativity has been lacking lately. I'm sure its all about the stress.

I'm back! (sort of)

2011-04-05T14:05:00.000-07:00

So sorry for my absence! The house is FINALLY on the market! I can breath a little sigh of relief..but not much. We have an open house this weekend and trying to get ready for that. It's hard work trying to keep the house "showable" with two young kids. Thankfully, my hubby has been great about doing a lot of work!

I was able to get away this past weekend to scrap with a group of fun gals. Unfortunately, I felt too stressed to be very creative. :(   Stinks since I was really looking forward to getting away. Friday before I was set to leave I received a call saying that one of my best friends was in the hospital due to a suicide attempt. I was very upset because I had no clue my friend was struggling so badly. Plus, we lost a mutual friend almost a year ago due to suicide. I was able to go visit her for about an hour. I'm glad to say today she is finally feeling better. I hate this..I hate death. After losing my mom almost two years ago, I'm overly sensitive about losing people. It just seems to be 1000 times worse now. Doesn't help that my maternal 72 yr old grandmother is dying of lung cancer. I left the retreat early and went to my aunt's for a family get together. Grandma has been living with my aunt for over a year and a half now. I hadn't seen Grandma in a few weeks and I was saddened about how much worse she was doing. She wasn't able to respond to any of us. It reminded me a lot of when my mom was dying. Just very sad. So if you smoke, please stop!!

On the way home from East Peoria, my car was acting funny.   Unfortunately, one of the front tires came off (just adding to my stress). Plus, my cell was dead.   A group of good samaritans stopped and helped me and allowed me to use their cell phone. One was a firefighter and was able to take the bad tire off. They stayed until my husband arrived. He said I was lucky that I hadn't flipped my car. If I would have been going any faster, it could've been very bad. At that point, I was just happy to be alive and had to laugh at the entire situation.

I told my husband I think my scrap weekend deserves a "re-do" :)   I haven't convinced him of that yet!!

I will post pics of some of my work soon. Until then, sharing a lay out that I did at my last retreat:

Happy March

2011-03-03T08:17:00.000-08:00

Again, sorry for my absence. We are in full gear getting the house ready to put on the market. Our target date is April 1st! So much to do. And all I really want to to do is spend some time creating in my scrapbook room. But, as I type this, I can hear the painter sanding the ceiling in my scrapbook room :( It needs to be done but all of my things are covered in plastic sheets.

I am hoping to get a weekend away here soon....the hubby is going to the Big Ten tournament in Indianapolis next weekend so I am going to negotiate :)

I'm in awe of all of you who take the time each day to create. I hope to get to that point sometime soon. All depends on how fast our house sells.

I know its just how things need to be for now. I keep seeing design team calls or I think of submitting some of my work. But, there isn't time for everything.

Hope everyone has been keeping healthy. I know our household has been hit hard this winter. Noah is fighting a cold and Hailey recently had a stomach bug. I have a cold as well. Boo. So ready for spring.

The good news is that its just around the corner! The first running race of the year is this Saturday (which I signed up for). Following tradition, its supposed to snow/rain. Always happens.

Well, I have boxes to fill and rooms to clean. We are getting a POD tomorrow to help declutter the house.

I will try to share some of the layouts I did at my last scrap weekend away. :)

Happy Heart Day!

2011-02-14T15:27:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day to all of you!!
Whether you have big plans or not, hope your day has been good. My husband and I aren't doing anything special. We actually went out for a bit this weekend. And since we're going to be putting the house on the market soon, we opted to not exchange gifts (he's really hard to buy for anyway!).

The kids are going to decorate cookies after dinner and open little gifts from us. That's pretty much our excitement! They, of course, had Valentine parties at school.

I feel a little sad because my mom always sent the kids cards in the mail. I know its such a little thing but it makes me miss her even more.

Remember to tell your loved ones how much you cherish them!! xoxo

mini Valentine's Day mailbox

2011-02-04T17:38:00.000-08:00

Hello all! Hope everyone has dug their way out of the massive snow storm we had this week! Can I just say I am so ready for spring??

Valentine's Day is just around the corner! I got a cute idea from my good friend, Malika, to decorate these mini mailboxes for teacher gifts. I found them in the dollar bin at Target! How great is that??

I used Pink Paislee's Cupid paper and embellished with ribbon and a chipboard monogram letter (that I spritzed with Maya Road Mist). Very simple but fun! I plan on putting some yummy chocolate inside! Valentine's Day is never complete without a little bit of chocolate! :)

Feels good to be creating again. I'm currently trying to work on my next class! It's so hard right now to find the time to sit and scrap. I have so many ideas running through my head!

Hope everyone has a good weekend! :)

Another snow day

2011-02-02T07:37:00.000-08:00

Like a good part of the country, we were hit by "Snowmageddon 2011" (I've been laughing at all the different names I've heard for this storm). This is a picture I took yesterday afternoon....we live on a main thoroughfare and it was pretty quiet except for snow plows and the occasional car.

I took this picture this morning. The sun is actually trying to peek through and I think most of the snow is over. I've heard anywhere from 13-16 inches in our area, but nothing official. I'm just glad its over!

I had meant to update sooner than today but sickness has been going around our house. Our son had the flu, followed by our daughter having strep. Then, Noah had the flu again! Yikes. I seriously need a hazmat team to come in and disinfect the house! I've been Lysol'ing the heck out of everything. Let's hope its over with and everyone stays healthy until spring.

I also had to have our beloved 12 yr old cat, Roadkill, put to sleep this past week (yes that was his real name). Roadkill was diagnosed with cancer last April and in the last month or so, his health has gone downhill. It was a hard decison, but I know he's up in heaven chasing butterflies and having tuna fish every day. And I know my mom is taking care of him. I was with Roadkill when he passed and I told him to go find his grandma. I know I'll never have another cat like him.

A week and a half ago, my friends and I went to a scrapbook B&B in Bourbannais, IL called Let's Get Croppin'. All I can say is WOW! We were so spoiled and pampered. The food was excellent and we had more than adequate amount of space to crop. Plus, Susie and Steve are just so friendly and accomodating! We are hoping to go back this summer! So, if you live near Chicago (or even further), its worth the drive!

Here is a layout I did using Imaginesce's Teacher's Pet line:

I used some stitching on my journaling.

I have more to share but will get them on here soon! I have a few layouts I created that I absolutely love!! And I'm hoping to do some creating today! But, we'll see..the kids and hubby are home so who knows :)

Happy Friday

2011-01-21T09:29:00.000-08:00

TGIF! It's freezing here in Central Illinois today! We woke up to sub zero temps. This afternoon, I'm leaving with a couple of friends to a scrapbook retreat about an hour south of Chicago. I'm so overpacked, it's not even funny. I have three Art Bins full of paper with pictures. I know I'm being ambitious..but maybe I'll actually get most of it done. I'm hoping, too, that I'll feel better as well. My son has had the flu for the last two days. I haven't felt that great either. So far, so good. Maybe it'll help me not overeat LOL

Today, I'm sharing a mini book I made for a friend...actually I made 4 identical ones. She wanted me to make something to give to her craft group. I used Fancy Pant's Christmas Magic from last year, as well as chipboard covers and pages from Zutter.

Hope to have lots to post next week! Have a good weekend!

crafting withdrawal

2011-01-18T15:22:00.000-08:00

Seriously, I'm not trying to ignore my blog. We are still working hard on getting the house ready to put on the market. My husband and I are hoping that by March, we will be ready. Meanwhile, we've been looking at houses. I'm so ready to get started and just move already!
Still have zero time to scrap....and its killing me! LOL Luckily, this weekend I'm going away with a couple of friends to Let's Get Croppin in Bourbannais, IL for a scrapbook retreat! So I'll have lots of stuff to share when I get back!!

fail...

2011-01-10T18:01:00.000-08:00

I've been so bad about keeping up with my blog. My apologies. The holidays aftermath of cleaning up, plus trying to get our house ready to go on the market has kept me so busy. Plus, I added the usual new year's resolution of losing weight and exercising more. I started a week ago yesterday and have done really well. It helps that I downloaded an app onto my nifty iPod Touch that helps me keep track of my calories and exercise. :) My goal is to lose 30 lbs by the summer (and my 20 yr high school class reunion!). Before kids, my husband and I ran marathons...three of them to be exact. We even participated on teams to do triathlons. I have tried to remain active since becoming a mom, but after breaking my foot last February, I kind of just stopped exercising. I'd go to the gym maybe once a week but that isn't enough for me. A friend of mine invited me to join her weight loss support group and so here I am. I plan on running the Illinois Half Marathon the end of April (God willing that I don't break any bones!!).

I am still itching to do some creating....but my scrapbook room is a mess and I am trying to declutter the house. Luckily, in two weeks my best scrap buddy and I are going to a scrapbook retreat near Chicago. I plan on getting lots of layouts done.

I guess it was a good thing I didn't make any design teams...I think I have enough on my plate right now LOL
We are hoping to get our house on the market by April 1st. I'm praying it sells fast and we find the right house that God wants us to have. It's such a hard decision. I keep praying about it (plus asking God that if its ok with Him, that our new house has enough room for me to have my own craft room again).

Well, its time for the kids to go to bed..which means I'm going to read. Or watch The Vampire Diaries on my iPod ;) (For the record, I am so Team Damon).

sorry...

2010-12-30T12:19:00.000-08:00

The cousins in front of Dad's tree

So sorry for my absence. I can't believe its been close to two weeks since I've updated. The busyness of Christmas has kept me from doing anything crafty! Plus, the last few days, I've been doing some sub work in a few dental offices (I am a dental hygienist). It's been great to work but that prevents me from getting much done at home. I feel like such a wimp...three days of work was pretty much enough. I guess I'm not used to it. But, as I said, it was good....especially to use my mad teeth cleaning skills :) Seriously, I miss doing hygiene but I don't regret staying home with the kids. Hopefully next school year, when Noah goes to kindergarten, I can maybe go back a day or two. It all depends on the job market, which currently stinks right now. Right now, its tough for any new hygiene graduate to find a job.

Anyway, Christmas was crazy busy! We had dinner Christmas Eve eve with our friends Bill and Eric who were here from CA. We joined them, along with the Klein family, for dinner at a tapas restaurant. A lot of fun, but A LOT of food!

Christmas Eve day the snow started to fall. We headed to East Peoria to my dad's for the day. It was nice to spend the day with my family (although my poor grandma couldn't make it due to being sick) :(
The kids had a lot of fun and got the presents they were asking for. I have to admit, Christmas has always been hard for me. I don't know why, although I think its because growing up, my brother and I always had to go to two or three places. Now with my mom gone, Christmas just makes me sad. I still feel a huge hole in my life without her here. Holidays just seem to make the hole even bigger. It does make me more thankful for my family. Definitely.

Christmas Day, the kids woke up to find tons of presents left by Santa and Mom & Dad. It was a blast watching them! Noah kept saying "I've been waiting for this!". Mid-morning, we left for Canton to go to my in-laws. We had a nice lunch and visit with everyone. By 3:30 or so, we had to get on the road to get to my aunt and uncle's in East Peoria. Unfortunately, that was the time most people were leaving. But the kids got to play a few games on my aunt's new Wii :) The highlight of my night was going to Peoria to visit with my sister Jessica and her family! They were in town from Kansas...I haven't gotten to see them since Thanksiving of 2007! It was a short visit but the kids held up great!

me and my beautiful sister, Jessica!

So today is the first day we've gotten to stay home since Christmas Eve! The kids have been trying out all their new toys. Pretty soon though, we need to pack up and I have to go into the scrapbook store for a few hours. My boss isn't feeling good so the kids and I are going in for a few hours LOL Luckily, my good friend Stacey is going to pick up Noah after she gets off work. I don't think he'd last long at the store. Although he loves to greet customers! :)

one more week til Christmas

2010-12-18T10:38:00.000-08:00

Noah at his Christmas program

Where has the time gone?? I can't believe Christmas is almost here! I'm excited but yet, I'm so not ready! This week promises to be very busy with shopping, wrapping, and get togethers. (The latter will be the best of all). My sister, Jessica and her family, are coming in from Kansas the end of this week! I haven't seen Jess in three years! My nephew, Aidan, was just a tiny baby (who I loved to snuggle). He's now an adorable 3 yr old. Jess and Austin also have a son, Caleb, who I've never met.

Tonight, we have the annual Christmas party at Dennis' out at Lake Bloomington. It's always so much fun (probably too much fun). I promised our sitter we'd be home by midnight at least :)

I haven't had much time to do any scrapping either..which bums me out. Don't even ask about my December Daily! I've been taking pics but I'm so far behind. I'm hoping over break I will have a chance to get caught up. I will be home with the kids, but also am scheduled to work three days over break at two local dental offices. Extra cash is always nice, plus I miss doing dental hygiene. I am hoping after Noah goes to kindergarten, I will be able to get a job at least one day a week.

After the gym this morning, we went to look at yet another house. I loved this one...its very affordable and comfortable. I wish our house was ready to put on the market so we could put an offer on this house. It has everything we need without being too pricey. The houses we have been looking at are at least $100,000 more, which is nice. But, it also would make us house poor. And we need some new furniture. Stressful to say the least. Will just pray about it and put it in God's hands.

The kids and I are off to East Peoria to visit with my aunt for a bit!!

Water for Elephants Official Trailer 2011 HD

2010-12-16T09:01:00.000-08:00

Cannot wait for this movie!! I loved the book. It's even better than Rob is playing the lead. *swoons*

Garden Party

2010-12-14T09:37:00.000-08:00

I will admit, I am not a big fan of winter. The snow is pretty for awhile, but I despise the cold. I am already dreaming of warmer weather, green grass, and blooming tulips and daffodils. The wonderfully talented Amy Coon at The Paper Life gave me Imaginisce's new Garden Party line to play with as an assignment. I had so much fun creating with the papers and embellishments. I especially loved all the flowers, as well as the mesh brads, and Snag 'Em stamps. Be sure to check out Garden Party as well as the rest of their cute paper lines on the Imaginisce blog.

First, I created a one-page layout using a picture of my niece, Sidney, when she was 2 yrs old:

Garden Party has so many fun embellishments, including this cardstock sticker tag, as well as coordinating ribbon and flowers.

I used the new Quickutz Lifestyle Craft Essentials to make this cute banner

Love all of the flowers and brads..especially the mesh brads!

I had fun using my new toy I got for my birthday: my sewing machine! Now, I want to stitch everything! :)

Using my leftovers, I created a mini-book using the Maya Road chipboard scroll book and pictures from this year's Easter.

The Snag 'Em stamps are ideal for journaling!

A huge thank you again to Amy! It's fun to take a break from Christmas and do something different :)

Well, I'm off to do some present wrapping and addressing my Christmas cards! I feel so far behind but that's ok. It'll all get done sooner or later. The most important thing is that my kids will enjoy Christmas. Everything else is just a bonus.

Winter has arrived

2010-12-13T09:38:00.000-08:00

Wow, I didn't realize it had been a week since I last posted. I've had a busy week trying to finish up Christmas shopping (I have yet to wrap a present), as well as create some fun things to share! (as well as trying to get keep up with my December Daily!)

We got hit with a "blizzard" this weekend...although not a lot of snow fall, just lots of blowing wind!

Today, the high is supposed to be 9 degrees. Who's ready for spring??? I know I am. Later, I will be posting some cute spring projects to get me in the mood!

my new toy....

2010-12-06T16:46:00.000-08:00

Hubby surprised me with this for my birthday! Well, it wasn't much as a surprise as it was the one thing I asked for! I've been wanting one forever! Can't wait to do some sewing on my pages!!

birthday weekend!

2010-12-06T09:30:00.000-08:00

Sorry for my absence!! It's been crazy busy around here. I taught my 25 Days til Christmas class at the scrapbook store this past Saturday. Plus, today is my birthday and I was doing a lot of celebrating this past weekend LOL. My husband, along with some friends, took me out to dinner Friday night. Then, my hubby surprised me with an overnight stay at a hotel! Here is a pic of our rowdy bunch!

Then, yesterday after church, my dad and sisters came over and took me to Biaggi's for lunch. We went shopping and then saw a movie, Due Date. My poor youngest sister did not like it and walked out towards the middle....some parts were a little raunchy.

It meant a lot to me for them to come over and spend the day with me!!

Today, we started off with swim lessons for Noah. My MIL is coming this afternoon to take me to lunch. I have no clue where to go because I'm not all that hungry. I feel like all I've been doing is eating this weekend!

Tonight, the Brownie troop I lead is doing a tour at the local humane society. I am hoping I will not break down and cry. Our male cat, Roadkill, is almost 13 and he was diagnosed with lymphoma this past spring. He hasn't been doing so well lately and tomorrow I'm taking him into the vet to have his paw checked. We may have to make the decision to put him down. He's been the sweetest cat ever, but I'm afraid he is suffering.

I've also been trying to work in my December Daily, as well as some other projects! There are about 5 things I want to get done! I wish I could just sit and scrap. Maybe this afternoon??

Happy December 1st!

2010-12-01T09:23:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited to get started on my first December Daily! I told myself this year I would take the time to do it, no matter what! :)
It's been a busy week as I'm trying to get ready for a class I'm teaching on Saturday. I'm on page 15 of a 25 page book! It's taken me longer than I thought, but luckily my wonderful boss, Margaret, has been helping me.

Just wanted to share a mini book I put together for one of my BFFs, Shelley, for her birthday:
I used a Maya Road chipboard book, with My Mind's Eye Lost and Found collection. The flowers I used are from Prima.

These friends and I have known each other since junior high.....some of us since grade school! We try to get together at least once a year and do something. Last December, we all went to Vegas for my 37th birthday. I had a friend that had invited me out to do the Las Vegas half marathon....so it turned into a girls' trip! We had a lot of fun. I've been telling all of them to save up...my 40th is in two years and I WILL BE on a beach somewhere!! :)

Ok, better get back to kitting!!

Just a few more days!

2010-11-29T09:17:00.000-08:00

Can't wait to start my first December Daily!! I have always wanted to do one, as I love Ali Edwards! Her ideas are fantastic!

This week will be busy, as I'm STILL getting kits together for my class on Saturday. I'm only on page 5! I am making 10 kits, plus trying to put one together for myself. Yikes. I'll be at the store every afternoon this week. :)

Happy Monday!

Thankful

2010-11-26T08:46:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving! Ours was busy but fun....stopped at three places, starting with my sister in law's in Morton. We had about an hour to visit before spending most of the day at my dad's. Dad bought a new house this year and has completely gutted it. The kitchen was done so my sister, Jody, decided that we should have dinner there. It was fun to be with my family, although a bit sad. Holidays are so hard still without my mom. I know she'd want us to be happy and move forward but sometimes (at least for me) its hard to not get caught up in my grief. However, I am SO THANKFUL for my family. Their support has been tremendous.

My sister Jody and niece Sidney

My dad and sister Jenny

me with my brother Josh

We ended the night at my Aunt Linda's in East Peoria. I just love her. She has been there for me a lot...both while Mom was sick and after she passed away. Aunt Linda is my hero...she has shouldered so much this year, including battling Stage II Lymphoma. I wish I could buy her the world. She deserves it.

L-R: cousin Shane, Aunt Linda, cousins London and Cydney

I did some Black Friday shopping this morning...nothing too crazy. I don't like to go out in the early hours and fight the crowds. I like sleep too much LOL Trying to decide what to do with the kids today... my husband is tiling the back splash in the kitchen. I really really just want to scrapbook, but not sure if that will happen. I'm trying to finish up a mini book.

Hello Monday

2010-11-22T10:44:00.000-08:00

It definitely feels like a Monday! Definitely does NOT feel like the end of November! We are having very warm weather in Central IL today! It's quarter til 1pm and 65 degrees! Such a tease since snow is forecasted for later this week.

Have been trying to squeeze in some creating time between all the busyness! Here is a layout I just finished, using Imaginisce's "Teacher's Pet" line. I bought it last spring while in Northern Indiana at a scrapbook store! Love it!

I also took some pictures of a mini book I did for my wonderful husband for Father's Day. I admit it just recently was finished! Oops! My friend, Malika, gave me the idea of asking the kids questions about their dad. Pretty funny answers, if you ask me! Especially from Noah, who is 4.

I'm SO BLESSED to have such a great husband!! He is a wonderful father to our children!

Getting ready to head to the store to finish cutting for my Christmas class coming up on the 4th. :)

pug sitting....

2010-11-21T12:11:00.000-08:00

This weekend, we are dog sitting for some friends. Her name is Bella and she's an 8 month old pug. I LOVE pugs..I really really want one. But, my husband thinks they are ugly and annoying. I keep telling him someday we will get one! Our 4 yr old is kind of afraid of dogs (he thinks they are going to eat him when really they just want to play).

How can you not love this face?? She is so sweet...very loving! I hate to give her back tonight!

Hoping to get some scrapbooking done today!! I was at a friend's to buy some adhesive off of her this afternoon and we were both saying how we are itching to do some creating!!

Suicide Survivor's Day

2010-11-20T17:57:00.000-08:00

In rememberance of a beautiful soul who unfortunately could not see what others saw in her.

I'd like to you meet my friend, Wendi. I met her a little over 10 years ago at an eating disorders support group. She was a junior in high school; I was finishing up 6 weeks of partial hospitalization. We bonded over the fact that I was an EP alum and we loved one of the French teachers. I had always hoped Wendi would recover for good from her eating disorder. But in the last few years, she seemed to get worse. This past spring, she tried to commit suicide. For three months, she was in a persistant vegetative state until her family decided to take her off life support. I can say no one's life is the same without Wendi. I miss her every day.

So, if you or someone you know is struggling with depression, an eating disorder, or any other addiction, PLEASE get help.

scrapbooking tools I cannot go without....

2010-11-17T13:39:00.000-08:00

1. Tombow MonoAdhesive tape roller

2. Glossy Accents

3. paper piercer

4. Tim Holtz scissors (they cut like butter)

5. Color Box Chestnut Roan chalk ink (I ink everything)

6. Crop-o-dile

7. Miracle tape

8. 3M foam tape

9. Archival black ink

These are my MUST HAVES for when I am creating! I also am a big fan of anything bling, my Making Memories paper trimmer, Glimmer Mist. Man, there is so muc! What do you like to use??

I am such a messy scrapbooker, as you can see. I usually have things lying everywhere LOL

It's such a gloomy day. I'd rather be up in my scrapbook room but the house needed to be cleaned. Lots of other errands to run. Maybe tomorrow!

just pinch me....

2010-11-16T08:01:00.000-08:00

Ok nevermind. Don't.

I'm so excited today! This month I submitted work for Teresa Collin's design team. I absolutely love her and her products! I thought I might as well try, as she is one of my favorite designers!
I happened to be on the computer this morning and saw that Teresa had updated her blog with the list of finalists. I scroll down the list, my heart is racing..my stomach is in a knot. I don't see my name! Until I get to almost the bottom and I see this:

THERE IS MY NAME!!! I feel so lucky and blessed to have made it this far! It's such an honor. I'm just over the moon today!!

Scrapbook Sunday

2010-11-14T17:51:00.000-08:00

Sorry for my absence. It's been a busy few days. The kids and I spent all day Saturday in Peoria visiting with family and celebrating my niece's 4th birthday. All three of us were worn out when we got home. Noah even fell asleep on the way home. Unfortunately, he ended up getting sick last night...my husband was up with him (and cleaning up puke) a good part of the night.

I went to church this morning, then we all went to a couple open houses. One was waaay out of price range but very nice. Not sure if we'll find that perfect house that both Chris and I can agree on.

Anyway, I took the rest of the day to sit in my scrap room to get some layouts done. I feel like I have these ideas floating around in my head and never have the time to make them come to fruition. Well, today I had the chance. It was good therapy as I've been feeling kind of down lately. I lost my mom to cancer last year and that makes the holidays even more tough. Plus, my grandmother is suffering from emphysema and isn't doing well. Ever since losing Mom, I guess I don't handle death and loss as well as I used to. I feel like I've had enough in one lifetime. Rationally, I know that isn't how life works.

My first layout I did I used Teresa Collin's Giving Thanks. The picture was taken on Waikiki Beach with Diamond Head in the background. Last month, Chris and I were lucky enough to get away for a pest control convention without kids! The company footed most of the bill and my youngest sister and MIL watched the kids. It was so nice to get away just the two of us!! It rarely happens that we can even get a weekend away.

My second layout is done with My Mind's Eye Sophie collection. I love their pieces...I found this at an Archivers this past summer when we went up for CHA in Chicago. I bought these piece with this picture in mind. This is the last picture I had taken with my mom. She passed away last summer from lung cancer at the age of 54. Mom fought hard but unfortunately, the cancer was so far advance when she was diagnosed. I miss her so much. My life isn't the same without her.

My third layout involves even more therapy. I did this in honor of my friend Wendi. I met Wendi at an eating disorder support group in 1999. She was still in high school and we bonded over the fact that she had Mme. Pfahl for French. We became friends and occasionally went out to eat or shopping together. She was like my little sister. This past spring, Wendi tried to take her own life. She was in a persistant vegetative state for three months. I will miss her forever. My heart aches so much when I think about her.

I used Little Yellow Bicycle's Freespirit. I bought it for the peace signs...as that was one of the things Wendi loved. The week after Wendi's funeral, my friend Natalie and I went and got tattoos to honor Wendi. Yep...peace signs:

Well, I think this is the longest entry I've had so far! It's time for bed...been a long day. I didn't mention that I broke one of my toes on Friday night either. Yep, just call me Grace.

I heart my friends.....

2010-11-10T15:08:00.000-08:00

Have you seen these?? They've been around for about a year or so, but are now becoming all the rage! They can be done in any theme! A lot of fun to do as well! Here is one I did with Teresa Collin's Freestyle line. I used some older pictures of me and my girlfriends from high school. There are rare times that all seven of us are together. This one night in April 2007 we were able to go out to dinner! This past December, we all went to Vegas for my birthday! (yes, I've made a mini book of that too! LOL)

Travel Ledger mini book

2010-11-10T15:00:00.000-08:00

If you've seen my scrapbook photos on FB, then you know I LOVE mini books! I still like to do the traditional 12x12 layouts, but mini books are my passion!
Here is one I did with Teresa Collin's Travel Ledger line documenting our family's trip to St. Louis this past August! We surprised our son with a trip on an Amtrak train. At 4 yrs old, he is NUTS about trains! The look on his face was priceless!

It's beginning to look a lot like.....

2010-11-09T10:04:00.000-08:00

Halloween! LOL

Ok, with this beautiful 70 degree weather in November and my mini-obsession with Halloween, I'm having an even more hard time getting into mood for Christmas!

Plus, look what I got in the mail this week!

Hocus Pocus from Pink Paislee!! (disclaimer: I had a coupon and I knew our store would not be ordering this. Support your LSS!!)

I can't wait to put together a cute mini book with this year's Halloween pics. I'm even thinking next year, I will do a Halloween countdown book...the 13 days of Halloween! LOL

I know I'm not the only Halloween nut...my friend Lori B. puts up her Halloween decorations in September. And I had a customer at the store

Saturday that loves Halloween more than Christmas!

Ok, I swear this is my last entry for the year about Halloween. I am trying to focus on Christmas. There are a lot of cute new Christmas papers out there to play with. One of my favorites is Pink Paislee's Father Christmas. Very vintage!

Love to know what others out there are liking this year!

ready for Christmas??

2010-11-03T09:13:00.000-07:00

I'm not. I never am. I try to make the fall last as long as possible. However, it is inevitable and before we know it, we'll be busy with Christmas shopping and all that goes with it. I actually am going Christmas shopping with my mother-in-law tomorrow. It's a tradition we have. I love spending time with her!

I have yet to design my Christmas cards. I feel so behind. Plus, there are a TON of things I want to make for the people I love. I wish I didn't need to sleep! :)

I am teaching a "December Daily" sort of class at the store next month. I used Teresa Collin's Noel line. So cute! I LOVE her paper! Here is a sneak peak! If you live in Central IL, I'd love it if you came and joined me. My class is December 4th from 1-4pm.

This book can be used as a Christmas countdown book or to document your holiday events! Besides the paper, my favorite is the Maya Road flower on the front! You get a red and black one in your book!

The saddest thing about November....

2010-11-01T15:14:00.000-07:00

is putting away Halloween decorations! :( A lot of my friends tell me how weird I am because I get more excited over decorating for Halloween than Christmas. I've always been this way.

The hubby is out of town to Indianapolis to see a Colts game with a friend. So, the kids and I are going to IHOP for dinner. Yes, I am mother of the year! It's only 5:15pm and I'm ready for bed.

Fall Mini Pumpkin Book

2010-11-01T11:12:00.000-07:00

I used a Maya Road Pumpkin coaster chipboard album. It was quick and easy.

Happy Halloween!

2010-11-01T10:58:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I'm a little late. I've had a sick girl most of the weekend. I wasn't feeling so well after church yesterday so I took a nap. Which bummed me out because I absolutely LOVE Halloween! We didn't even carve pumpkins this year! :(
I love the weather this time of year...the changing colors of the leaves, the decorations! Plus, I go absolutely ga-ga over the new paper lines! Two years ago, my boss at the store put me in charge of ordering the Halloween papers....let's just say I over ordered!
One of my favorites this year (and have yet to get into my hands) is the Pink Paislee Hocus Pocus line! No one else at the store liked it...so we didn't order.
I also love to create mini books and decorations for the fall/Halloween season. Here is a 7gypsies black printers tray I decorated for a friend of mine. I used Making Memories Spook Alley.

I love making things for other people. My friend, Mal, tells me I need to keep stuff for myself. LOL

current and on going obsession

2010-10-30T15:04:00.000-07:00

I really want a pug. Yes, I know they snore and shed, but I've wanted one for like forever. My husband is not on board with this. Plus, we have 4 cats. I keep trolling petfinder.com and fall in love with pugs that need a home.

isn't he the cutest????

first entry

2010-10-30T14:57:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I don't consider myself computer illiterit but starting a blog kind of scares me. I mean, I have no clue what I'm doing. But, a friend told me I NEED one. I tend to ramble, so I apologize in advance.