Just the Way it is

Treasured Scrapbooking 15th Reveal

2010-04-18T12:44:00.005-04:00

Here are some additional projects I did with the Treasured Scrapbooking April kit! You can still get yours!
Stop and Smell the Flowers!

Just Listen

CCD Crosses

I made therse crosses for the girls in my CCD class.
Be sure to check out the April kit - it is stunning!

More Spot Projects for April

2010-03-29T05:24:00.005-04:00

The Scrapping Spot's April kit is so pretty and so fun to work with!! Here are some more projects I completed with this baby!

You can get your kit here

The Scrapping Spot April Projects

2010-03-28T02:26:00.001-04:00

You MUST check out the April kit at the Scrapping Spot!! It is just beautiful and I am going to share some of my projects with you today - come back tomorrow to see more!!

Birthday Cards for my Dad and my nephew, Jarred!! Happy March birthday boys!

And my immediate family!

Come back tomorrow - I did a slew of projects with this awesome kit!

One more Treasured Scrapbooking Layout

2010-03-27T14:24:00.001-04:00

I created another layout this week and wanted to share it with you - again - I cannot believe how versatile this kit is and it allows me to create layouts and projects that are so different from one another!

Be sure to check out the Treasured Scrapbooking store - huge sale happening right now! ALL CLEARANCE 80% OFF!!!

PLUS TONS OF PRODUCT IN THE STORE 30% OFF. This includes nearly all the paper, most of the albums, alterables, and many embellishments!!

People Let Me Tell You Abouy My Best Friend...

2010-03-17T16:04:00.002-04:00

One more layout form the Treasured Scrapbooking March kit. This is my bestie - she also has the honor of being Jamie's mama. I talk to her at least once a day and she knows all my best secrets! It's always good to celebrate your best friend. Meet Pam.

What Chocolate Cake????

2010-03-16T06:49:00.002-04:00

Another layout from the March Treasured Scrapbooking kit. This kit was so versatile - all the pages I created seem to have a different look. I love when a kit allows you to create unique pages. While the March kit is sold out - you should hop over and subscribe so you are guaranteed an April kit - I know what is going to be in it and trust me....it's going to be another winner!!
Is it any wonder that this kid has stolen my heart??? Oye Vey - he brightens my world! I appear to be obsessed with my punches and the art of creating layered flowers - it is so fun!

How fun is this cork too - I picked up a four pack of cork tiles on clearance at the hardware store - I think it was $1. Couldn't wait to incorporate it into a layout. Look for more in teh near future! How cool will it be with my signature cardboard!
Thanks for visiting!

A Project for a Friend

2010-03-15T06:28:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday Dad!!

Today is reveal day at Treasured Scrapbooking so I thought I would post my projects this week and get this blog humming.

This is a special project I did for my friend Carolyn. I wanted to leave her with a special gift and created this layout and framed it. It is a picture of her and her grandson.This flower was made from packaging paper I received in something I ordered via mail. I do not throw away any cool packaging as I am always looking for ways to incorporate it into my work. So I ripped a piece of the paper and misted it with Maya Mist - after it dried, I accordian folded the strip and then cut a rounded petal on the end. I unfolded the strip and ran it through my sewing machine. Gathering the thread to bunch the paper, I formed a circle as I went and glued the ends. This created the base for the flower. I added some primas and felt leaves cut from a Michael's dollar coaster that had been misted to match. I topped it all off with some stickles accents and there you have it!
It is hard to see in this picture, but I took the Sassafras Lass polka dot paper, punched the top and bottom with a MS punch and misted it to tone it down and match the color scheme. While the paper was still wet, I scrunched it up to the size and shape I wanted. After it dried, it hardened and I added the bits with glue dots. Also - the word Hope was in the Michael's $1 bin. I covered it with glue and immersed it into rough sugar crystal glitter. After it dried, I sprayed it with sealent to keep the glitter in place.

Treasured Scrapping's March Project Kit mini!

2010-03-14T06:00:00.002-04:00

Under Tessa's Umbrella March 2010 Special Project Kit

Have you seen it? WOWOW!! I could not resist. I ordered it sight unseen and could not wait to dig in! This kit is bright and fun and contains the newest release from Prima- Umbrella, custom buttons from Tessa Ann Watte's Button Shop, Coredinations and Bazzill Cardstock, beautiful Prima Umbrella flowers, vintage paper lace, and some assorted buttons. Over $40 retail, for only $29.99!!I have been working on my album and just completed it. I have not put the pictures in yet as I see a fun day planned when it warms up in Florida and my little Jamie jumping through the sprinkler. I misted the covers and highlighted the designs with Stickles. I covered each page with the cool Coredanations cardstock. I embossed each piece of cardstock and rough sanded it to bring the designs forward. The I turned to my punches for additional detailing. After each page base was complete - I had the best time embellishing. All items are from the kit and the March main kit. I apologize ahead of time as this is a picture heavy post. Here we go:

You can order here.

Not only that - Tessa Ann Waite created exclusive buttons for Treasured Scrapbooking and is the Guest Designer for this month! Check out Tessa's album!

Fun Sketch Site!!

2010-03-03T03:22:00.001-05:00

Check out Sketch Inspiration!
This week, Treasured Scrapbooking is sponsoring the site and you could win the wonderful March kit. Check it out!!
We had an opportunity to do a project for the site. I decided to do a canvas. Here is the sketch:

And here is my canvas:

I wanted some fierce texture on this piece so I used spackle for the background - you know - the kind form the hardware store! I misted it and let it dry - love how it turned out! Seriously - go check out the site - they have a ton of cool sketches and a very friendly community!

The reveal

2010-03-02T06:16:00.003-05:00

Here it is friends - my initial layout with the Treasured Scrapbooking kit! This kit is awesome - full of Sassafras Lass - you all know it is my fav manufacturer! Throw in some Cosmo Cricket and I am a happy Camper. I loved every piece so I had to make this patchwork layout to show off all the papers and it allowed me a lot of little canvases!

You can get your kit here

We Love Our Members Contest at Treasured Scrapbooking!!

2010-03-01T06:55:00.001-05:00

Treasured Scrapbooking - We Love OUr Members Contest
Annual Contest
March 1st-28th

Please join us for a four week long contest involving challenges, games and prizes!

Each Monday morning (or late Sunday night) I will issue a challenge based on a design principle, and you will have until Sunday at midnight PST to complete your layout. If you don’t complete a layout, you are out of the contest. Entries will be “judged” by the Design Team and given a score according to the following parameters:

1. Following the challenges directions
2. Photographs
3. Overall composition
4. Success of using design principle

It sounds complicated, but I PROMISE it will be fun! Each design principle will be something easy, most likely it will be things you already do! Digital scrappers are welcome to join in on the fun, but there may be occasion where paper scrapping will be necessary, so be careful to read the challenge outlines each week.

At the end of the four weeks, the participant with the highest score will be our grand prize winner. There will also be a random name draw winner and a weekly winner. There will be games and prizes to go along with the fun all month long!

Hope to see you! All Newbies welcomed!
Erin,
Treasured Scrapbooking Owner

Check out Treasured Scrapbooking now!

Have you see the Treasured Scrapbooking March kit?

2010-02-28T03:45:00.000-05:00

The March Kit will be available tomorrow in the Treasured Scrapbooking Store! Have you seen the March kit?

And the scrump~dilly~iscious add-on kit:

Now - how about a peek of my gallery layout?

Be sure to check out the March Design Gallery to see the whole thing and all the projects the rest of the team has created!!

March Project for The Scrapping Spot!

2010-02-27T15:32:00.006-05:00

OK - the March Scrapping Spot Kit is just YUMMY!!
You can purchase this GEM on the 1st at the Scrapping Spot Store!
I was totally inspired by teh goodies in this kit and created four layouts, two cards and a fun altered project. Here they are:

Do not miss out on this kit - it is huge and full of such good stuff!!

Happy Valentine's day and some Treasured peeks!

2010-02-14T07:04:00.002-05:00

Happy Valentine's day!!! I know some people think this is a commerical holiday - but I adore the chance to celebrate love - I have a date with the love of my life today - my Nephew Jamie - he is four and makes my heart sing. We will be going to McDonald's for lunch then a trip to Target and JJ Maxx - yes - I know it is TJ Maxx, but Jamie calls it JJ! Do you have any plans for today?OK - I thought I would share some sneaky peekies of things to come tomorrow - something to whet your appetite for the mid month reveal tomorrow. Here are a few goodies:

Be sure to check out the February gallery tomorrow for the full reveal of all the design team members mid-month project. I hope you are looking forward to it as much as I do - the design team members always inspire me!

The Scrapping Spot

2010-02-12T05:02:00.005-05:00

Have you seen the Scrapping Spot February kit??? It is so pretty and fun to work with. Here are the layouts I created this month:

Now hop on over to the Scrapping Spot and Get your kit today!!

We have a winner!

2010-02-08T05:24:00.002-05:00

Last weekend we had a blog hop for the Treasured Scrapbooking reveal!! Each design team member gave away a $5 gift certificate to the store! I picked the winner from my blog comment using the random number generator and the winner is..........

Jeannine!!

Jeannine - send Erin an IM to get your code for your gift certificate!!

Thanks to everyone who hopped along with us!

Treasured Scrapbooking's Blog Hop!!

2010-02-01T03:00:00.004-05:00

Welcome to the Treasured Scrapbooking Blog Hop!

Hopefully you have come from Elizabeth's awesome blog on your hopping adventure.

We are celebrating the release of our February Kit and itching to give away some prizes! You can find the February Kit here: Treasured Scrapbooking Store. There are limited quantities, and you won't want to miss out!Be sure to check back in on the Treasured Scrapbooking Blog and post a comment to let us know you are playing along! One random person will receive a Gift Certificate to the TS store! Also, share this on your blog and post back to let us know that you have for an extra entry! Send a friend, have them say that you sent them and you get ANOTHER entry! What can be easier than that? Also, you'll find challenges along the way, every challenge you complete before the end of the week will earn you an entry into another RAK drawing! You need to post your challenge layout on TreasuredScrapbooking.com in the Challenge Forum to get your entry, but what could be easier than that? If you like what you see, please sign up for our newsletter on the main page of our site.

Here is one of my projects for the month!

And now for your challenge!! Being a stamp collector, I think it is time to make an effort to ink them up! My challenge for you is to use a stamp on a project - simple as that
Remember - be sure to post your challenge layout on TreasuredScrapbooking.com in the Challenge Forum to get your entry by the end of the week.
Also - leave aomment on each blog and the Treasured Scrapbooking Blog for entries for the drawings!!

The Next stop on your hop is the very talented Jenni!!

If you're joining us mid-hop, be sure to hop all the way around!

Blog Hop Order:
Julie
Ginger
Elizabeth
Lisa
Jenni
Morag
Eva

The fun continues!! Resolution Crop Projects

2010-01-20T05:00:00.000-05:00

Morag's Challenge was to get organized and create something to help you do so! I altered the cover of my Project Plan book for 2010!
Eva was promoting reading and presented the perfect opportunity to make a book mark! I have been reading a lot lately so the timing was perfect. Here is my new book mark - I used a piece of this new big fat ribbon I got at Michael's
Last, but not least - Ginger challenged us to Clean up our act by creating a page without a lot of clutter! Everyone knows what a challenge that is for me since I am the funky, chunky chick!
Treasured Scrapbooking always throws the best crops! That is not all either - each month every design team member offers up a challenge as well so there is ALWAYS something to inspire you and get you going! Be sure to check it out and say hi when you drop by!

More Resolutions Challenges!

2010-01-19T05:00:00.002-05:00

Here we go with some more challenge from the January Resoluttions Crop:
Jennifer had a very fun Budget Challenge - it required specific elements on teh layout:
1. Use at least 10 circles on your layout...the more the merrier!
2. Use 1 piece of cardstock as your background--not patterned paper.
3. Use at least 2 pictures on the layout.
4. I love me some buttons so I want to see at least 5 buttons somewhere!
I loved using pink girly paper on this layout of Frankie who is such a manly boy!
Elizabeth's fun challenge was to celebrate Family and Friends. Here is my layout:
We are not cone! Come back tomorrow to see more.

Resolutions' Crop Projects!

2010-01-18T05:00:00.002-05:00

Last weekend, the awesome design team, of which I am honored to be a part of...., hosted a crop for the new year! Boy - what wonderful challenges the ladies came up with. Here are the projects I completed for the crop:
Julie Walton is the Design Team Coordinator. Her challenge was right up my alley! Use something recycled! Bring on the cardboard. I also added some Prima packaging.
Carole is the January Guest Designer and created some awesome projects with the kit. Her Challenge was very clever too. It was to use a Frame to make a message board.
Tomorrow I will post some more challenges and projects!

Another layout!

2010-01-17T05:00:00.003-05:00

Treasured Scrapbooking's January kit - the kit that keeps on giving! This is my sweet Boo - I just adore this kid as you all know. Loved teh Cosmo Cricket Earth Love chipboard set. I rearranged the letters from Earth to write Heart.Is he too cute or what!!

Second Set of Treasured Scrapbooking Projects@

2010-01-16T11:48:00.003-05:00

I had so much fun with the Treasured Scrapbooking January kit - just wait until you see the February kit though - brand new product!!! Wahoo!!
This is a simple wall hanging. I used a piece of cardboard from a box as the base and just got to layering!!

Come back tomorrow for some more!

Treasured Scrapbooking Layouts!

2010-01-09T07:12:00.003-05:00

Good morning!
Here are the projects I created with the Treasured Scrapbooking January Kit. Get yours now.
More coming soon!! Be sure to check out the Resolutions Crop - we are having quite the party this weekend! Sure hope y9ou come and play!

Treasured Scrapbooking Resolutions Crop!

2010-01-05T05:00:00.000-05:00

It's a Resolutions Crop at Treasured Scrapbooking!!!
Jan 7 2010 through Jan 10 2010

It's a new year and a time to reflect on the past year and plan for the new year. Not everyone makes resolutions every year but most everyone has some thoughts about things they would like to accomplish, things they might want to make a better effort at and things they might want to change, and usually the beginning of each new year is a time when these thoughts come to mind. So we, at Treasured Scrapbooking, are going to go with the flow, and hope that you will join us for the ride! So whether you make resolutions, steer yourself towards a focus or create an Ideal Scene for yourself, we will have challenges for you to complete that will allow you to get them down on paper...and glue, and embellishments, and....well you get the idea

Each Design Team member has chosen a resolution of sorts to work on and some of the ideas you will see have something to do with:

Weight Loss
Go Green
Clean
Budget
Volunteering
Organize
Quality Time

You will love the way the Design Team has interpreted the themes above! And as if completing new challenges and new pages or cards isn't enough, there will be prizes too!!!

I know you are intrigued, so mark your calendars, add it to your list of things to do, and get yourself on over to Treasured Scrapbooking on January 7th to join in on the fun!

Where: Treasured Scrapbooking
When: January 7 to 10th, 2010

What to bring: Yourself and your supplies

Hope to see you there!

Treasured Scrapbooking's January Kit!!

2010-01-03T05:00:00.004-05:00

Woooo Hoooo! You shold see all the goodies in the January Treasured Scrapbooking kit! The add-ons rock too!
January 2010 Resolutions Kit! That's not all - there is an embellie add-ons and paper add-ons as well as a Fierce Guest Designer!!
Sasha Holloway!! Check out this awesome Album add-on kit. Sasha's Fierce Project Kit Here is a sneak Peek of what Sasha did with the kit: Check out more here in the Treasured Scrapbooking January Gallery!
My Layouts will be posted here tomorrow!

Wonderful Work In Progress!

2010-01-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

I was so excited that Trish asked me to be a guest designer for January! Everyone knows I am a WIP-aholic. The January kit is awesome as ever!
Here are the projects I created:

Thank you Trish - you are a dear and I had such a wonderful time working with teh WIP kit as I do every month!! I am a lifetime subscriber!!

Back from Hiatus!

2010-01-01T07:38:00.000-05:00

WOW - December came in like a storm. I have been busy with work and the holidays. I went to Las Vegas for a week for work as well. I neglected my blog, but hope to be back to your regularly scheduled programming.

I have my Scrapping Spot January layouts to share with you today. The January kit is beautiful and elegant!Here are my layouts:

Check back tomorrow for a surprise!

Treasured Scrapbooking December Full Reveal

2009-11-29T06:37:00.005-05:00

Treasured Scrapbooking Full Reveal - this is the last month with two kits and boy did Erin go all out! A fun, playful kit and a Christmas kit. You can check it out here.
Kit #1Products include:
Papers Crate Paper, Prima, October Afternoon, Sassafras Lass and more!
Embellishments Prima, Pebbles, Jenni Bowlin, American Crafts, Kaisercraft, VINTAGE, and more!

Kit 2 A fun mix of a ton of manufacturers including: Making Memories, May Arts, Queen & Co, Little Yellow Bicycle,Teresa Collins, Webster's Pages, Jillibean Soup, Kaisercraft, VINTAGE, And MUCH MORE!

December Scrapping Spot Project Reveal

2009-11-27T15:58:00.004-05:00

December is my first month on the Scrapping Spot design team. It is a LOVELY kit. You can see it here. I think the kist will be available for purchase on December 1!
Here are my projects:

I used almost every scrap! I have a few stickers left, some paper specks and a couple of Vellum quotes!! I might just squeexe out another card or two :)

Happy Thanksgiving!! So much to be thankful for...

2009-11-26T06:36:00.004-05:00

So it is Thanksgiving. First I would like to wish each of you and your familes a wonderul day full of family, food, friends, football and fun! I hope this Thanksgiving is the beginning of a prosperous, peaceful holiday season. Remember - Jesus is the reason for the season and may God bless you and yours.

I have so much to be thankful for this year. I am healthy, loved and still employed. So far so good! I have been a bit reflective the last few days. Please indulge me for a few minutes. Yesterday was a delightful day. I had a date with my favorite four year old. We started with his 2009 Christmas picture photo shoot. I think this is the winning picture:
After the photo shoot - we had a date. Dates are quite frequent with this little man and I. It starts with lunch at McDonald's where Auntie always asks on teh way..."Do you want chicken or chicken?" To which he answers I want chicken and then proceeds to giggle and tell me they are the same thing! Duh! So off we go to have chicken with caramel sauce for dipping. On one of our dates he was being silly and dipped his chicken into the caramel sauce for the apples. Being the auntie and not the mom - of course I allowed him to make the chicken just a little less healthy! The result - he only dips in caramel now! ;)

After chicken - we are off to Target. We have a shopping routine - we hit the dollar spot, then the movie aisle where he selects a movie which is a maybe - you see - he gets one pressie when we have a date si the movie might be it - but we are not sure yet. Auntie does a little shopping as we make our way back to the Thomas aisle where we peruse the selections and determine if a Thomas train will outrank the movie (which is usually a Thomas movie!). On this day - a new set of wooden tracks outweighed the movie selection. Auntie completes her shopping while Jamie is fascinated with the new toy.

On this day, we returned to his home to wait for the party. You see - it was Spencer's 8th birthday and his party was coming soon! Which brings me to the next awesome part of my day! Celebrating 8 with this little pirate:
Tomorrow tune in for a recap of the phone call I received on the evening of Tuesday, November 24. The party was very fun - great food, lots of family and so much laughing that my belly hurt!! Happy Birthday Sweet Spencer J! I love you!

I also have a Thanksgiving toot! I was lucky enough to be selected for the Design Team for Treasured Scrapbooking. The new team will be in place from January 2010 through June. Thank you Miss Erin for having the confidence that I can represent your new Scrapbook kit club. I am excited to see the changes you will bring and honored that you included me in the talented new team! Here is a list of Treasured Scrapbooking Winter/Spring 2010 team:
Julie Walton- DT Coordinator Extraordinaire
Eva Dobilas- Card Designer
Ginger Graham
Morag Cutts
Elizabeth Carney
Jenni Smith
Lisa Woodhart
Pauline Dirrig (Polinka)
So excited to work with these girls!! I can't wait to see the December kit because the peeks look awesome. AND - I am way over teh top excited for January!!

The Scrapping Spot December Sneaks!

2009-11-25T07:34:00.005-05:00

I had such a good time working with the December Scrapping Spot Kit!! Just wait until you see it. It is beautiful. I made four layouts, 2 cards and an altered item - all from one kit!! You can see kit sneak peeks here. The full reveal should be by the end of the week I think!! In the meantime - here are some peeks of the projects I completed:

I can;t wait to see what YOU create with this awesome kit!!

Treasured Scrapbooking Nov 15th Reveal

2009-11-15T15:41:00.002-05:00

Here are the rest of my design team layouts for Treasured Scrapbooking. I worked with kit #2 - very fun - very vintage.

Scrap a lot Saturday

2009-11-14T18:20:00.004-05:00

Wow - fun day - did some serious damage to my November Work In Progress kit!
OK - so I completed the two new two a week challenges at WillowTraders and five! Challenges at Treasured Scrapbooking's ChaChaChanges Crop!

BE BOLD mirror

2009-11-11T05:48:00.004-05:00

I have wanted to do this project for awhile. I purchased a new Martha Stewart punch on Monday and that was all the inspiration I needed to put this mirror togehter. The flower is huge because the message is be bold - that flower is pretty bold and I love it!

The bottom rub on says:
When you embark
For strange places,
Don’t leave any of yourself
Safely on the shore.
Have the NERVE
To go into
Unexplored territory

The rub on on the left says:
Laugh at yourself
But don’t ever
Aim doubt at yourself
Be Bold

So go........BE BOLD!

2aw #4 - WIP kit + Halloween Clearance = Fun Plaque!

2009-11-08T05:00:00.000-05:00

Good morning friends and happy Sunday!

I hope you all have a peaceful faith filled day!

Today I am going to share my 2AW #4 - Give Thanks! I used the wonderfully awesome Work in Progress November kit to make this fun plaque. I started with a 60% off plaque from AC Moore that said EEEEK!!! in halloween green/black/purple! I knew when I bought it that I wanted to alter it. The fun Cosmo Cricket Nutmeg papers were just the ticket - Trish's kits rock!

It's Baby Shower Day!

2009-11-07T09:42:00.004-05:00

My sister's friend Sara is having a baby boy. My sister and her other friend Ronda are having a shower for Sara today. I was asked to make the favors. Here is a pic:
I purchased baby boy socks - filled them with hershey's kisses - tied the top with a big fat black with white polka dot ribbons and attached two pewter charms - one says it's a boy and the other is a pic of baby feet. The shower invitation had the pic of baby feet on it so I added a little pic of the feet as well. I hope she likes them.
I woke up this morning and realized I did nto have wrapping paper - so I turned to my scrappy supplies. I have a roll of black newspaper so I misted a chunk with gold, copper, green and blue - then stamped one of my favorite Crafty Secrets stamps - a little cherup all over it.Then I wrapped the pressie and thought about bows. If you know me well - you know it didn;t take long to pull out the tulle and big fat ribbon! I made my own bow and slapped a silk flower on top. Not very traditional baby shower, but I think it is pretty:

2AW #2 and #3

2009-11-06T16:43:00.003-05:00

Wow - that is a confusing title! haha!
Here are my layouts for the 2AW Challenges at WillowTraders:

I missed number 1 - time got away from me.

Here is Challenge #2 - Scrap a grandparent - Dziadzi Time
Challenge #2 was to do a layout and include a leaf in celebration of Autumn. Jill also included an optional sketch which I think rocks:
Here is the sketch:
and here is my layout:

Time to Spill!!

2009-11-06T08:22:00.002-05:00

Sorry for keeping you all hanging! I am honored and so excited to announce that Jill and Cathy from the Scrapping Spot have asked me to join their design team! Starting with the December kit, I will have the unbelievable pleasure of working with their fantastic kits for the next six months!!

Be sure to check out the site - awesome kits and goodies in the store!

Just check out the November kit - there are still some available here!!

I have a secret!

2009-11-03T04:49:00.002-05:00

I can't tell - not sure when I can tell, but I am super excited, totally blown away and wicked honored!! Woo Hooo!! Happy Tuesday!!

Treasured Scrapbooking Layout and Challenge Posted

2009-11-01T17:24:00.005-05:00

Today is the debut of the Treasured Scrapbooking November Gallery and the monthly challenges are posted!

Here is my first layout with kit #2:I also was able to post a monthly challenge on the message board - Be sure to check this one out: I challenge you to make a Christmas Ornament for your tree or to give as a gift!!

Please check it out and if you want to participate - that would be SO awesome!! You just create an ornament - upload to the Treasured Scrapbooking Gallery and link it in the challenge thread!! C'mon Willows and my sweet blog friends!! Jump on board - it is a fun, easy challenge. To create mine - I used a metal star from Michael's - it was $1.

I used the back side so I would have a shadowbox effect. I modge podged papers inside the star. Stitched a bit of lace into a flower and used a pop dot to put it in the middle. Then I took a sticker - painted it with Tim Holtz Rock Candy for a crackled effect. Added a large bow to the top and a slip of lace for a hanger. That's it!!

Don't Bug Me!

2009-10-31T07:53:00.001-04:00

Sometimes a picture just makes you laugh. This t-shirt that Jamie is sporting just kills me!

THAW #11 and THAW # 12

2009-10-30T18:05:00.003-04:00

THAW #11
The Candy Corn Challenge from Miss Kim!! Use orange, white, yellow and/or brown on a layout. Here is mine:
THAW #12
OK - The Color-iffic Challenge from Julie! I went - I spun - I got:
and made this:

Holy Scrap! TOOT!

2009-10-28T06:13:00.004-04:00

Wow - I am blown away that Treasured Scrapbooking has picked me to be the November Guest Designer! This is my first time designing for a kit club and I am a bit flummoxed to say the least! OK now I am proud of myself for having come up with Flummoxed off the top of my head! I didn;t even realize I knew that word. Anyway - I digress - you have to check out the site. What a fun group of ladies and a message board that is chocked full of things to do. If you are ever stumped - you have to check it out. Each month they post a sketch challenge - they also post a challenge from each design team member. I even get to issue a challenge! So friends - you must show up on November 1st and check out my challenge and participate!!I promise it will be a fun one! Just click HERE to check it out!!

THAW #10 Let's do Denim

2009-10-27T05:20:00.003-04:00

In celebration of national Denim Day - teh challenge was to use Denim or predominately Blue on a layout!

Check out Blue Moon Scrapbooking 7 Gypsies Giveaway!

2009-10-26T05:24:00.002-04:00

Check out Blue Moon Scrapbooking - they are having 7 Gypsies week - lots of giveaways, designer inspiration and special 7 G Kits!

Blessed Banner

2009-10-25T05:00:00.000-04:00

This is a fall banner I created. The inspiration came from the November Work in Progress kit. The kit included a leaf mini album. I wanted to make a banner so I traced the leaf book on a few different medioums. Then I chunked it up. The letters are basic grey - I misted them first and then outlined them with a Krylon gold pen to give tehm some depth. I used twine to string the banner for an earthy feel. Hope you like it!

Just a little Sass!

2009-10-24T06:52:00.003-04:00

Here are two layouts I made of my bestie's birthday party.
I love Sassafras Lass and I love Work in Progress Kits!! Go Trish.

LEO # 9 Lift a Mag

2009-10-23T05:00:00.003-04:00

Julie challenges us with a fun task - dig out an old magazine and scrap a layout from the mag. I chose to lift a layout from my June 2008 Scrapbook Trends.

Here is the layout in the magazine:And here is my lift - A Pretty Pug Princess!

LEO #8 Scrap a Nut

2009-10-22T07:42:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was national nut day and in the honor of observing National Holidays - I created the THAW Challenge #8 - Scrap a Nut - we are not talking pecans here kids!!

I think this qualifies - here is my layout:The story behind the layout:
The Gubala family consists of one boy and three girls. A long time joke is that it is four girls - Francine rounding it out. Last year for Halloween Francine joined us for Trick or Treat. The funniest thing about the picture is the lack of reaction on Babci's face. Like she is used to it. 'nuff said!

THAW #7 No Regrets!

2009-10-21T19:33:00.005-04:00

BOOOOOOO!! Bad blogger! I am sorry - I am inclined not to post unless there is a picture - since I lent my camera to a friend - I was scrapping like a fool (no comments please) but could not photo the layouts! So here I am with lots of things all stored up - Come back - there will be more to see for the next bit!

Kim's challenge was a good one! Tough - it really pushed us! Go Kim!
Evaluate your life. YIKES! OK I can do this!
Here is my layout:
Here is the journaling:OK - So I did shoot it blurry on purpose so you would think you were tearing up when you read it! HA HA!!

LEO #6 - Lift a Sponsor's Design Team Layout!

2009-10-15T05:00:00.000-04:00

WOW - I love to give lifting a go! I chose Work in Progress's talented design team. This time I was wow'd by Michelle Lanning's What? layout!

Here is Michelle's layout:
And my lift: Hello Silly Boy!~

LEO #5 National Dessert and lowercase Day!

2009-10-14T05:00:00.000-04:00

Fun fun fun clever challenge from KIM! Today is notional dessert day - so the challenge was to use the colors from your favorite dessert - but the challenge did not stop there - it is also national lowercase day - that means the title needed to be all lowercase! Of course I never remember to edit - so here it is!
I had a good time playing!

Tuesday Tutorial for THAW!

2009-10-13T05:00:00.000-04:00

OK - I love love love to recycle - especially cardbaord - like you didn;t know that if you come here often!!

So-when JilliBean Soup came out with the new cardboard alpha - I had to make my own!!

I stripped a piece of cardboard I cut from a box (think Studio Calico kit box)The found a set of Basic Grey nekkid chipboard letters in the size I wanted. I flipped the cardboard over and then traced the letters (be sure to flip the letters upside down so when you cut them out the front side facces the correct way)
Then cut out the letters....and Walla!!Then I added some Tim Holtz distress paint to the letters just so I could get a little messy! I am working on a shadow box for his room so I have to male this up a little bit. Chunky and Funky coming soon. ;)
I hope this gives you some creative ideas for making your own recycled alpha.

LEO #4 The 12 on 12 challenge

2009-10-12T18:17:00.003-04:00

Awesome challenge Julie posted - you had to use 12 of something - I used 12 gems on the half circle!

Check back tomorrow for a fun tutorial!

LEO #5 Favorite Dessert Day and lowercasse day!

2009-10-11T18:31:00.002-04:00

This is for the dessert day and lower case alpha day chellange. My favorite dessert is Red Velvet Cake so lots of pink and red on this layout!! Jamie and his mom!

Jamie Birthday Layout

2009-10-10T18:25:00.003-04:00

As you know Thomas the Train was the star of the party...right down to the pressies!
Loved this Studio Calico kit!!

World Card Making Day Creations!

2009-10-09T05:00:00.001-04:00

I had fun playing with card making last weekend. Here are a few!

Can you tell I am obsessed with the awesome value ribbons I found at Michael's for a dollar!! Thanks for taking a look.

Bad Bad Bad Blogger

2009-10-08T05:45:00.004-04:00

Shame on me! This week has been overwhelming. I am so busy at work and so exhausted when I get home. I feel really bad about not staying ono the blogging track and about not having enough time to fully participate daily with comments on the THAW challenges at WillowTraders. I am here and checking in, but do not have a lot of energy to participate. I promise to be more active on the weekends and work at scheduling blog posts on teh weekend so they are ready to post through the week.

Now - here is some scrappiness from last weekend:
THAW Challenge #1 - Show me a treat!THAW Challenge #2 - A to Z - use an entire alpha on a layout!THAW Challenge #3 - Moldy Cheese - just awesome - check out the thread to "get" it!Check back tomorrow for the cards I made last weekend for World Card Making Day!

Happy Saturday!!

2009-10-03T12:07:00.004-04:00

I have a few goodies in process - three layouts and 1 card so far - working on more. I will post this afternoon.

In the meantime - check this out! Woo Hoo! JessicaLynn Originals - Home of my favorite Brentwood - is having blog candy this weekend!! Check it out - stamps are on sale too - 25% off!My little birthday card was chosen for the Challenge winner! Thank you Jessica - cannot wait to play with some more brentwoods!!

It's Friday! What a long week!

2009-10-02T05:51:00.003-04:00

Good morning!
I have had such a long hard week! Big changes at work including layoffs - which is so hard for me. I feel so bad - some very dear people that work for me lost their job yesterday. My responsibilities were doubled. We have a long road ahead of us. I humbly ask for a prayer or two. We shall survive.

On a happier note - here is my last LEO challenge! I used the super terriffic Work in Progress October kit! Have I mentioned what a Trish fan I am!!

Enjoy your day and look for some updates tomorrow!

I am a slacker

2009-09-30T05:32:00.002-04:00

Sorry - I meant to post this for Monday!
A fun Layout I did for a challenge at Treasured Scrapbooking!

Faces of Fun - Spencer is so photogenic. What a little cutie pie!

LEO #14 Just So Cute and Hip

2009-09-27T07:39:00.002-04:00

This kid cracks me up! The Challenge was to create a layout shaped other than a square or rectangle!

LEO # 13 Presents - More Photos!

2009-09-26T13:33:00.003-04:00

Happy Saturday!
Welcome Willow Hoppers!!
This is my LEO #13 - use 3 or more pics.

LEO #12 Perfect Moments

2009-09-24T06:18:00.003-04:00

Candace brought us a fun LEO - use Fabric on a layout. I cut up some old jeans and added some twine I got at Target in the dollar spot section Sorry for the cruddy picture - it is still dark out here!

LEO #11 He is Now 4

2009-09-22T05:00:00.001-04:00

OK - I cannot tell you how excited I was when Work in Progress had Sassafras lass in the October kit!! First off - Trish is just the best and Jamie is on the Design team - do I need to say anymore about WIP?? Add not only Sassafras lass, but MONSTERS no less and then throw in a birthday for the cutest, sweetest 4 year old I know and yes - I am in my glory!!

LEO #11 was my challenge - Sew Sew Pretty - you had to sew n a layout - machine sew, hand stitch, rub ons or draw the stitches - whatever you please! I machine stitched around the circle and on a piece of red satin ribbon to make the gathered bit at the top.
Here it is!This is all WIP too - I only added the red satin ribbon, the prima pebble and the bling. Go Trish!

Scrappy Cakes

2009-09-21T05:52:00.003-04:00

So - you have baked 32 cupcakes for a birthday party that day - reach for your sprinkles and realizes they are almost gone - What's a scrapper to do? Reach for the Primas! It was actually a hit!

The ULTIMATE sacrafice for your best friend!

Kelly and a Card!

2009-09-20T08:50:00.006-04:00

Good morning friends!

Happy Sunday. What a beautiful morning here in Sunny Florida. I was up early again this morning - today is my bestie's birthday party. She was 40 on the 16th, but today is the celebration. I made 32 cupcakes this morning. They are cooling and waiting to be frosted. I made scrappy bits for the top so I will show you pics tomorrow. I also did her birthday card this morning. used anotehr new Jessica Lynn stamp - ok - if you were not in love with Brentwood from previous pics - check out how stinkin cute this stamp is!!I am sure you are being polite about the card, but really want to see this:Miss Kelly's fantastic album!! I have more than 3/4 done on mine. I will be finishing it tonight or tomorrow depending on the party. OK - I have to tell you - I was not as excited about the album as meeting Kelly. I think she is really talented, but let me tell you how stinkin cute the album is! I also learned some great tricks and tips yesterday. It was fun. I have to tell you that Kelly is as sweet as you can imagine. She is very open and chatty. The time FLEW by because she was so enjoyable. Anotehr thing about her - she has an innate ability to make everyone in the room feel special. She moves about and converses individually with every person. What a fantastic marketing representative for basic grey! I have been to other classes - one in particular - the instructor was a very well known scrapper and face for a manufacturer - she was really nice, but seemed really shy. Not Kelly - she is your best friend before you get to page three! Here she is with the awesome album:
And me and my new best friend - although I think I was up to page 6 when we took this picture.
And this is Valerie and Kelly - anotehr bestie - she is the reason I scrapbook. I refused for a year but she kept at me - telling me I would love it. Knowing my compulsive personality - I resisted as long as I could. But in the end - she won and I am hooked - as you all know! My Valerie!

Woo Hoo Kelly Goree Class Saturday!

2009-09-19T08:40:00.003-04:00

Good morning!
I have been up since 4am - excited for the class and I also wanted to get LEO #9 done. I ended up scrapping LEO #9 and LEO #10 and a card for a challenge at Treasured Scrapbooking. So here you go!

LEO #9 - Scraplift a Layout from a Sponsor Gallery! I selected a layout from the Scrapbook Sussies September Gallery. I selected Zoa Barker's Grow Layout.
LEO #10 was to do a then and now sequence layout. I started lifting a layout from Zany Zinnia for LEO#9 but realized the pics were perfect for #10. Check out Stacy's layout.Finally - this card was created for a Treasured Scrapbooking September Challenge Bee Happy.
This awesome Brentwood Stamp comes from Jessica Lynn Originals.
OK - that's it - sorry for the bombardment - I will be sure to give you a recap of our fun class tomorrow!

LEO #8 - Boy With a Curl and some news!!

2009-09-18T06:15:00.003-04:00

Well ladies- the results are in for the Treasured Scrapbooking Treasured Hunt 2009 - I am still blown away that I was selected for second place. The talent was incredible and the winner Jodi created an incredible layout with so much detail that it should be framed. I wish her much congratulations for a well deserved first place! Rita also brought her game! The level of detail in her stamping and touching journaling was so inspiring. I look forward to trying out some new stamp techniques based on her awesome final project!! Leslie and the Treasured Scrapbooking design team deserve kudos for sponsoring, creating and (holy smkokes) judging this very fun contest! I so enjoyed playing along and pushing myself. Taking the time to enjoy the process and expressing myself with paper, cardboard and scissors!!

I love the layout I did for LEO #8 beacuse of the subject. Jamie has the prettiest blond curls! I don't ever want to forget them so I took a few pics of them on his birthday - knowing I would be scrapbooking them so we can remember them forever!

Last night, Pam and I taught our first CCD class for our church, Saint Katherine Drexel. We have a fifth grade class. Just two students right now, but I am sure that will grow as teh regestrations continue. It was really humbling for me. My heart is so full. I am fearful I will not be able to successfully share the word with the kids. A perfect example of a time to turn to God for the right words, the proper message and total willingness to serve.

Tomorrow is my class with Kelly Goree!! Wahoo - I promise to tell you all about it and share pics when I get home!!

I am so excited because my Work In Progress kits will be here today - I love tracking numbers!!!!!!!

Umm...Kudos to Jamie girl!! Of course - the box was nto checked - haha! IS that new???
Enjoy your Friday!!

Holy JilliBean!

2009-09-16T09:57:00.002-04:00

Check this out - my first EVER layout on a manufacturer blog. Wahhoo - how fun!

JilliBean Soup Sketch Contest Results

I'll take runner uip - I am honored - although I am sure it is the pics of that too cute for words kid that made it happen!

Guess where I am going on Saturday!

2009-09-15T06:00:00.002-04:00

I am going here to hang out with Kelly Goree.

We are going to make a mini album with this:

LEO #7 Use some Stash

2009-09-14T05:31:00.000-04:00

Love love love Sassafras Lass - this is an old line!

Life is God's Novel...Let Him Write It

2009-09-13T07:12:00.003-04:00

I have wanted to do a monochromatic layout for awhile. It happens that it was a challenge at Treasured Scrapbooking so I made this yesterday. My Bestie's birthday is Wednesday and I am going to give this to her as one of her presents. I used a piece of stripped cardboard for the base = then gesso'd it so it would be white. I added a piece of KI Memories sheers over the cardboard.
The white poinsettas on the left are from Michaels. I made a lace bow for the center. Added some Prima Jewels below it and a wooden Prima flower to the center of the bow. Then took a Prima packaging sheet - gesso'd it and covered it with Martha Stewart Glitter. That is used for the journaling base. In the right corner is a Heidi Swapp decal. I added some more Prima flowers and then Heidi Swapp chipboard letters and American Craft silver thickers to complete the quote.

New Cards - Did some coloring!

2009-09-12T05:00:00.003-04:00

Holy canneloni! I found a new love - his name is Brentwood! How stinkin cute is this stamp!! I got him from Jessica Lynn Originals. Check out her blog for some serious card inspo! I colored himi with my PrisamColor Markers. Cut him oout - mounted him on a cardboard circle, added a few rub ons to his belly (he liked it - purred like Roxy does) and there we go!
And here he is with some JilliBean Soup! And the last one is another JilliBean Soup card too.

Treasure Hunt Final Round Layout!!

2009-09-11T05:00:00.000-04:00

This is it girls - the end of the contest. I finished my layout and posted it. I thought I would share with you guys. The Challenge
Layout must include:
- one photo or no photo
- TS colors must be included somewhere in the layout (orange and green) (you may use other colors in addition)
- 2 different kinds of alphabet in your title
- 5 buttons exactly
- some kind of ticket (scrapbooking or real)
- journaling including the words "If I could change one thing about myself..." I had such a good time playing with some different techniques. I cut a big piece of cardboard from a shipping box and stripped it. Then I gesso'd it and painted and misted it!
I adore this cherub stamp and was so happy to include it on the layout.Journaling:
If I could change one thing about myself it would be to…
Get rid of the fear.
Be brave. Be real.
Share my thoughts unguarded.
Be a model of confidence.
Stop worrying and LIVE!
Trust in the Lord.Supplies
Cardboard – Shipping Box
Gesso
Paint-Claudine Helmuth
Mist – Shimmerz
Patterned Paper – Sassafras Lass, Scenic Route, Making Memories, Studio Calico
Acrylic – Fancy Pants
Alpha – Basic grey, American Crafts
Flowers – Prima
Buttons – Autumn Leaves
Scrappers Floss- Karen Foster
Die cut – K&Co
Tickets – Tim Holtz
Rub on – Prima
Stamp – Crafty Secrets
Ink – Staz on
Lace – michales
Bling – Heidi Swapp I am pretty happy with all the layouts I did for this challenge. It has been so fun and challenging. I rarely scrap myself unless I am in a picture with Jamie. But looking deep for emotion and exploring me is not at the top of my list usually. No matter what happens next week - I already feel like a winner, because these layouts would never have been created if I didn't participate. So I already have a pretty cool gift.

LEO #5 Here's lookin at you Kid!

2009-09-10T13:12:00.004-04:00

Oh man - Candace picked out some awesome sketches for the LEO #5 - I picked this one:
And here is my Layout:

Now get this - remember the Treasured Scrapbooking Treasure Hunt that I am participating in? Well - believe it or not - I am still in. We are on the last round - only three participants left. We scarp one more layout for First, Second and Third place. Holy smokes - I am tickled to be included still! Tune in tomorrow for my last layout. It is done - just have to photo it. I think I will save it for a WillowTraders Blog hop post which will be tomorrow!

Happy Birthday Pumpkin Butt and A JilliBean Layout!

2009-09-09T05:00:00.002-04:00

So - guess who is FOUR YEARS OLD TODAY!!!!

Love you Jamie!!

So Jillibean Soup posted a sketch and I used it to make a layout.
Here is the sketch:And here is my Pouty Lips Layout:

Supplies used:
Patterened Paper - JilliBean Soup
Journaling spot - JilliBean Soup
Rub ons-Prima
Jewels - Heidi Swap
Stamp = Inkadinkadoo
Markers - prismaColor
Ink - Staz-on
Flowers - Prima
Paper Lace - Unknown
Charm - Making Memories
Ribbon - Michaels
Cardboard - Mailing box

Journaling reads:
That sweet face! Working it. Those pouty lips are too much for me. You know I will give in.

LEO #4 - Family Time

2009-09-08T08:00:00.003-04:00

First let me start by saying that I had a fantastic time on Sunday with the apple of my eye! We celebrated his 4th birthday with a party. His real birthday is 09-09-09. :) This is not the greatest picture, but it means the world to me because I went over a few hours before the party started. Let me share that this boy is OBSESSED by Thomas the train!!! So I bought him a new outfit with Thomas on it for his birthday. His mama washed it and it was all ready to wear when I got there. He had not seen it so I was able to surprise him with it and get him ready for the party. Now - this is the ONLY almost 4 year old that I know that gets excited about clothes. OK - only Thomas clothes. He selects his outfit each morning and gets himself dressed. He was super excited about the new Thomas overall shorts and shirt. Sorry - back to the picture. After we got him dressed and did his hair (yes - it is gelled just like his aunties :)) He was sitting on my lap talking about his party and I reached out and took this picture of us myself. The actual pic is horrible - way too dark so I photoshopped it and changed it to black and white. This is what we ended up with. Over the next few weeks you will see much better shots of his party through my layouts and posts - but this picture will always mean the most to me because of the moment it captured. I have said it before and you will hear it again - this little man owns my heart!!
Here is my LEO #4 - scrap an old pic - these pics are from May 2008. We went to dinner after Spencer's hockey game. I love the warmth in the pictures (color) with this graphic 45 paper. Of course - besides cardboard I am obsessed with thick ribbon and love wrapping the layout up like a package!

LEO #3 Yard Pirate

2009-09-06T07:00:00.003-04:00

This is not my favorite layout. I screwed up the title. First I tried pen work to highlight the title, but my shaky hand left a mess so I tried to cover it up with stickles and the shaky hand did no better. What's a girl to do? I dore these pictures of Spencer playing pirate on the club house.

Treasured Hunt Challenge #5

2009-09-05T10:32:00.004-04:00

I was lucky enough to move forward in the Treasured Hunt 2009 at Treasured Scrapbooking. The last round reduced the participants to the last 7. After this round - there is only one challenge left. It has been such a pleasure playing along with this talented bunch of scrappers! I feel very fortunate to have been included this far!Challenge:
- Title on layout must be "This Day"
- one picture only - at least 5x7 or larger
- at least 2 chipboard embellishments
- ink
- at least one brad
- 3 different ribbons
- journaling including the words "this day..."
- original designs only - no sketches, please Supplies:
Prima Patterned Paper
Prima ribbons
Basic Grey Chipboard Alpha
American Crafts Thickers
Denim-old pair of jeans
Creative Imaginations Brad
Maya Road Chipboard tag
Lil David Chipboard boarders
Stazon-Brown Ink
AC Zing Embossing Powder
K&Co Patterned Paper
Smooch Ink (Highlights on cut flower attached to tag)
Kaiser Pearls
Glitz Bling
Prima sequins rope Journaling:
December 7, 2003 – Who knew this day, would alter the course of my life forever when we took our friendship to the next level. Who knew that I would learn so much about myself over the next five and a half years? My faith would grow, my heart would be pure, I would know the kind of love that makes it ok to be wrong, to put others needs before my own, to find the joy in giving, to look stupid and realize its ok, to fade into the background a bit. & the confidence to stay out of the spot light - learn from observing more and talking less. This day changed my life in such a positive way. Thank you for this day.

Wish me luck friends!

LEO #2 - Color Challenge

2009-09-04T05:00:00.002-04:00

Candace offered up a yummy LEO challenge yesterday - you could select from two color schemes. I chose this one:

I really did mean to stick to those colors, but I often find when I start out with one thought - the creative process sometimes takes on its own idea. Here is my layout: I just had to add the pink to my Princess' layout! Love this dog!!

It's Pug Wednesday

2009-09-03T05:00:00.002-04:00

I thought I would share a layout I did this weekend with you on Pug Wednesday. Roxy is so excited for daycare today - especially since she will not be going next week since mama will be on vacation! Enjoy your day!!

LEO #1 Lift a Layout from the July LEO Gallery

2009-09-02T05:00:00.002-04:00

The LEO Challenges started yesterday!!
Challenge number 1 was to lift a layout from the July LEO Gallery. I picked my favorite Jamie Pate to lift. Here is her layout: And this is what I came up with. There is a funny Story behind this layout. The only thing Jamie (My Jamie) will eat is chicken. So it is a big joke on date night. I always ask him - Jamie - do you want chicken or chicken? He will say chicken. Then I say are you sure your want chicken and not maybe....chicken? Then he giggles and we do it all over again.

Cookie Munch!

2009-09-01T05:00:00.000-04:00

This is a quick layout I did with pics of Jamie making cookies and enjoying the fruits of his labor!

Studio Calico August Kit

2009-08-31T05:00:00.001-04:00

I did this layout yesterday withteh Studio Calico August kit. Love the green paper - it is a SC original. This layout started off with me cutting up the Sassafras Lass paper. As soon as I saw it - I knew I was cutting those hot air balloons out. Kinda silly - cut all the images out and pop dot them on a different background. Just one of those things a girl has to do! This is my favorite boy and his lucky mama - who happens to be my best friend as well. :)

Two New Layouts

2009-08-30T07:19:00.002-04:00

I made these two yesterday.
Everytime Jamie gets sick of my photo taking - I start with the - Show your teeth smile, Jamie. Here is an example of "Just take the pic and let's get it over with Auntie!! :) Love this kid. This was completed for a challenge at Treasured Scrapbooking - the monthly challenge. Tough part was the requirement to use an oval. Not thrilled with the outcome.
This is my sweet pal Val. She makes me laugh = it was fun to do a page about her!

Treasured Hunt Challenge #4

2009-08-29T10:02:00.003-04:00

This was the most fun I have ever had doing a layout. I took my time and built this throughout the week. I really enjoyed the process. I wanted to try some new techniques and create a layout I could frame to remind me of the Golden Rule.The pocket is made from a sheet of chipboard – I ripped it in half, wet it completely and shaped it the let it dry. After I shaped it, I sprayed it with a variety of Maya Mists and Tattered Angels mists to get the color I was looking for.Journaling:
Pinky Swear
I am not willing to surrender my principles for the easy way out. My firm line of right and wrong is not blurry. Sometimes I do not understand how anyone can give up the only thing they ever truly own – their integrity.
When I give my word – it is golden. I would rather face the consequences of my actions in this life than sacrifice my place above. The golden rule is very simple – do unto others are you would have them do unto you.The Challenge:
Layout must include:
- one picture only
- at least 3 leaves (can be an embellishment, stamped, handmade, cut from paper, real leaves etc)
- stitching - machine or hand stitching (no stamps, rubons or stickers)
- some recycled piece of packaging - plastic, hang tag, price tag, cardboard, etc. (describe in your description if it's not evident what you used)
- journaling of at least 50 words including "I am not willing to..."
- original designs only - no sketches, please
Supplies
Cardboard from delivery box
Chipboard sheet (received in a kit to stabilize paper)
Patterned Paper – Sassafras Lass, Cosmo Cricket (Leaves)
Denim – old pair of jeans
Stamp-Unity Stamp Co
Cardstock-Bazzil
Embossing Powder-American Crafts Zing
Ink-Stazon
Green journal flower-K&Co
Lace-Michaels
Paper Tape-K&Co
Pins-Fancy Pants
Chipboard bunny-Sassafras Lass
Cut Turquoise Paper-KI Memories
Metal Word – Studio 18
Thickers-American Crafts
Ribbon-Michaels
Fabric leaves-Prima
Fabric Flower-Creative Charms
Paper Flower-Homemade from old yellow pages and Maya Mist
Journal sheets-Making Memories, K&Co
Rubon-Hambly

Wish me luck - the next cut goes to 5. Only two more challenges left. I have so enjoyed this contest - after the initial "You must journal for real." shock. I am grateful to have made it this far and have no expectations of moving on. There are some very talented scrappers playing!

Cards, Cards, Cards!!

2009-08-28T17:54:00.002-04:00

OK - I needed to get a stash of cards ready so I found some wicked deals on the BG card sets! Here they are!
Check back tomorrow for some more scrappy stuff! it's a WillowTraders blog hop Weekend!!

Pug Love Thursday

2009-08-27T06:00:00.003-04:00

Took this pic of Roxy yesterday morning on her way to Doggie Daycare - She loves to go play with all the other furry kids! Check back for something crafty tomorrow - maybe. :)

I Believe...(Coming soon to a mini album near you!)

2009-08-25T07:30:00.000-04:00

Found this on the blog of Raechelle Bellus.and I think it is priceless!
Thank you Rae for sharing this with the world.

I Believe . . . That just because two people argue, It doesn't mean they don't love each other. And just because they don't argue, It doesn't mean they do love each other.

I Believe . . . That we don't have to change friends if we understand that friends change.

I Believe . . . . That no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that.

I Believe . . . That true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance. Same goes for true love.

I Believe . . . That you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for life.

I Believe . . .That it's taking me a long time yo become the person I want to be.

I Believe . . .That you should always leave loved ones with loving words. It may be the last time you see them.

I Believe . . . That you can keep going long after you think you can't.

I Believe . . .That we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel.

I Believe . . .That either you control your attitude or it controls you.

I Believe . . . That heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences.

I Believe . . . That money is a lousy way of keeping score.

I Believe . . . That my best friend and I can do anything, or nothing, and have the best time.

I Believe . . . That sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you're down, will be the ones to help you get back up.

I Believe . . . That sometimes when I'm angry I have the right to be angry, but that doesn't give me the right to be cruel.

I Believe . . . That maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you've had and what you've learned from them and less to do with how many birthdays you've celebrated.

I Believe . . . That it isn't always enough to be forgiven by others. Sometimes, you have to learn to forgive yourself.

I Believe . . . That no matter how bad your heart is broken the world doesn't stop for your grief.

I Believe . . . That our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become.

I Believe . . . That you shouldn't be so eager to find out a secret. It could change your life forever.

I Believe . . .Two people can look at the exact same thing and see something totally different.

I Believe . . . That your life can be changed in a matter of hours by people who don't even know you.

I Believe . . . That even when you think you have no more to give, when a friend cries out to you - you will find the strength to help.

I Believe... That credentials on the wall do not make you a decent human being. 'The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; They just make the most of everything'.

A Birth Certificate shows that we were born
A Death Certificate shows that we died
Pictures show that we lived!

Go Live and photograph it! ;)

One more WIP Page

2009-08-24T05:50:00.002-04:00

Here is a quick page I did yesterday morning before church. Love this WIP kit - three different layouts this weekend - each with a different look. So versatile. I spent yesterday afternoon covering the pages of the apple book. Yes Jamie - I am doing another mini!! Thansk for the inspiration Trish!!

I want to give a shout out to Chrissy for organizing the Willowtraders weekly blog hop. I have had so much fun checking out all the blogs of all my new friends. Not only have I "met" some wonderful new crafty ladies, but I have been so inspired. I really am a better poster too. I am a blog hopper daily but I have always hopped and moved on. Since Chrissy started this - I comment so much more. Thanks for that and thanks to all teh talented ladies that share their work with us each week!!

A Couple of Layouts

2009-08-23T05:27:00.002-04:00

I busted into the August Work in Progress kits yesterday. Just love what Trish puts together. The new Cosmo Cricket Boyfriend line and Scribble Scrabble Lullaby of Birdland in the main kit was so fun and I think both layouts have a completely different look.This picture of Spencer is too cute. I saw it on his mama's facebook page and had to scrap it. This picture is of my Niece Kimmy and Nephew Jarred who live in California. I miss these two kids!

Confession time: I have a wicked addiction to cardboard and recycling it these days. I am ripping up all the boxes my kitsa come in and incorporating it into layouts. I just love stripping the top off and uncovering the rippled sheets. Stay tuned - i think you will be seeing a bunch in future layouts. I love the rough texture and that I am not throwing the box away.

I am going to mass at noon todya and then a gold party at Val's house. You bring your old broken bits to the party and they pay you for it. We shall see how this goes. I look forward to seeing Babci and Val today. Hoping Spencer and Jamie will be there too.
Have a wonderful day!
Lisa

Treasured Hunt Challenge #3

2009-08-22T09:53:00.003-04:00

I was lucky enough to move to the third round of Treasured Srcapbooking's 2009 Treasured Hunt.

The Challenge
Layout must include:
- ric-rac
- paint
- at least one hand-made flower (made by YOU) - can be made out of paper, fabric, felt...whatever.
- 1 or 2 photos (no more, no less)
- Life doesn’t always work out the way you’d like it to. Sometimes you yearn to be doing something else, to be somewhere else, even to be WITH someone else…So - what would you rather do/be/have/say? Include the words "I'd rather..." in your journaling - make it long or short as you like.
- must be an original design - no sketches please.

OK - I know I am the queen of excess.
Journaling:
serve the Lord than serve the masses
live alone than feel that heartbreak again!
Supplies:
12x12 Blank Chipboard-unknown (painted red)
Paint: Kaiser
Cardboard from Amazon box painted (cream with Blue crackle over it)
Paint: Tim Holtz Distress crackle
Patterened paper, Stickers-Basic Grey
Album Page-Scenic Route
Tissue Paper-recycled from a kit delivery
Rick Rack-Karen Foster
Ribbon-Doodlebug, Michaels
Lace-Michaels
Alpha-Thickers, Target Dollar Spot
Stickles
journaling cards-unknown
Bling-Prima

Check back - I am in scrappin mode today!

Happy Friday!!!

2009-08-21T05:13:00.003-04:00

Good morning!
It's Friday and I am excited to get this day started! The weekend is just around the corner. I had a "date" last night with my favorite boy in the whole entire world!
We have been doing dates for a long time. The last month and a half have been rough for me and I had not taken him out for that time period. Yesterday I picked him up from daycare after work and off we went. Our dates are always the same - a trip to Target to select a Thomas toy and then to McDonalds for a 6 piece chicken nugget meal with apples and caramel. As we were driving to Target, we were chatting about his day. Then he says " I am glad you are back Auntie. I missed you - did you miss me?" So it looks like 6 weeks can be a long time for a 4 year old. He made comments like "Remember when I was little and we had a date." WOW - I sure do buddy.

Anyway - our weekly dates are back on track and I hope I don't disappoint him ever again. I can't explain how this kid has captured my heart. He is such an angel. So - we had a great time. Singing and dancing in Target - when we started dates - I made up a song that I always sing to him. I love Jamie - I'm not crazy - He's my baby. The funny thing as we walked through Target - he started the song. I think he was reminding me to sing it. So sing it - we did. I ignored all the crazy looks from the other shoppers and sang my heart out to my little monkey.

Other things to be happy about - My Work in Progress kits should arrive today! Wahoo - I will be playing with those babies this weekend. Main, add-on and project. It is also time for another WillowTraders Blog Hop so check back for creative posts!

Hi!

2009-08-20T06:23:00.002-04:00

Just a quick little card I did yesterday morning.

Have a great Thursday! Tomorrow is Willows Blog Hop Friday!!

Great Blogs for You to Check Out!

2009-08-18T05:00:00.000-04:00

I thought I would share some of my favorite daily stops. Awesome blogs that I peruse while I wake up and get ready for work. Ok - the list is really long so I am just going to show you a few today.

Work In Progress - this blog is full of wonderful inspiration, fun ideas, recipes, sneak peeks and helpful hints. I am Trish's number 1 fan - I think she is the coolest lady with the best eye and creates the best kits ever! On top of that - she is an absolute sweetie pie and first class all the way. As a customer, I have NEVER been treated so well. She is conscience, kind and thoughtful. (I am in no way affiliated with her kit club except as a loyal customer!)

Cuttlebug Challenges Love the ideas on the blog itself, but this specific post blew my mind - how clever is this!! Turning a soda can into an awesome elegant embellie! (Not like the fun whimsical angel)The artist, Suzanne Cimini, is super clever!

A Daily Inspiration This blog is super cool. The designers take turns posting a project with full instructions and product sources EVERYDAY!! How cool is taht? They are all very talented too.

OK - that's it for today - I wanted to share my response to a question in the comments yesterday.

Jamie said:
so let me ask you, do you prefer challenges simple and open, or specific like this one was?

I love all challenges - simple and specific. I think the hard part for me is the need to journal a specific topic. This one required me to include this sentence:
"If I were honest with myself..." The first challenge required me to use:
"I wish someone had told me that..." Perhaps the real issue is that I pondered both lines all week long!! The first week I went deep - the second week I pondered deep all week and did not come to a decision on my food fraud layout until Sunday! Can you see anal retentive girl emerging?? Or perhaps I was just fearful of ponying up the real emotions two weeks in a row. :)

So what so you guys think? What types of challenges do you like?

We have a WINNER!

2009-08-17T05:17:00.005-04:00

Remember this RAK from Friday? Well we have a winner.Here is comment #10Congrats Candace!! Send me your address to lisanroxy822@earthlink.net and I will get your goodies on their way to yoU!!

Yesterday I worked on my week 2 challenge for Treasured Scrapbooking The Treasured Hunt 2009 entry. This contest is really pushing me for journaling. It requires a lot of thought. After being serious last week - I thought I would have fun with this one. Here is the second week's challenge:

Challenge requirements:
- Create a ONE page layout (paper only - no digital)
Layout must include:
- at least 3 pictures
- 4 different patterned papers (no more, no less)
- 2 colors of cardstock (no more, no less)
- at least one arrow
- buttons or beads
- must have journaling that includes..."If I were honest with myself...". It can be as long or as short as you like but must include those words.
- must be an original design - no sketches please!

Honestly...I am a Food Fraud

Journaling:
If I were honest with myself I
would admit – I am a Foodie.
Love fancy food, but I take the
easy way out.

Supplies:
Bazzil – tan and orange
Patterened Paper – Scenic Route, K&Co, making Memories, Jenni Bowlin
Rub on Arrows – Kaiser Crafts
Bling – Heidi Swapp
Thickers – American Crafts
Used additional AC Thickers as a mask
Laces – vintage
Buttons – Autumn Leaves
Mists – Maya Road, Tattered Angels
Vintage Image – Crafty Secrets
Twine – Home Depot 
Punches – Martha Stewart, Fiskars

Thanks for visiting - Have a great week!

Happy Sunday!

2009-08-16T07:45:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was a productive day. I finished two more layouts for the X marks the Crop challenges at Treasured Scrapbooking.

This challenge required you to use yellow with red/white patterened paper. I am in LOVE with the BG June Bug! This one was a challenge to lift a design team member layout - the "hook" is you had to turn the layout upside down - too fun!
Here is my layout:
I lifted and flipped Live by DebbieFitz. Very fun and clever challenge.

Don't forget to leave a comment on this post for a chance to win the Pay It Forward RAK! Enjoy your day!!

Woo Hoo - lots of scrappy fun this weekend!!

2009-08-15T08:14:00.004-04:00

Good morning ladies!
There is a whole lot of scrappy good fun happening this weekend!! First off - I have a RAK to give away!

The RAK is the second leg of a pay it forward train! It started with the Willowtraders Blog Hop. While that is fun and motivating all on its own - last weekend I received an unexpected very pleasant surprise! The super talented Nicole - Made by Nicole - Not only shared her creative work - she also was giving away a RAK. Guess what! I won!! In the spirit of paying it forward - and the appreciation of Nicole's generosity - I thought it would be fun to Pay it Forwad with my own RAK! So - this is what I am going to give to one fun guest here on my blog!Four brand new sets of thickers, one scenic route black alpha, one set of fontwerks labels, a Prima chipboard alpha and two stamp sets! I think it would be fun to have a PIF train - win a RAK - host a RAK. What do you think? Have you ever been part of a PIF train? Do you think it would be fun? Leave me a comment on this post and on Monday morning I will pick a winner. The "goods" are already in the envie - I just need the winner's address and off they go! Will it be YOU?

Also - Treasured Scrapping is having an X Marks the Crop! It has been going since Monday and there are a billion fun challenges posted on the board and you have til the end of the weekend to upload for some great prizes! I plan on working on it all weekend! Here is my first layout for Julie's Ahoy! Show me your Treasure Challenge!
Journaling reads:
Treasure comes in so many possible forms. One thing I have learned in life is that the physical things mean so much less than the relationships we have in life. After 30 years that statement became crystal clear to me as I lived the journey of this angel’s birth vicariously through his mama’s pregnancy and birth. Once he was here, his mama selflessly shared every aspect of him with me. From surprise hugs to picking boogers to cuddles and having him fall asleep on my chest to dirty diapers to the ultimate – a simple “Auntie Lisa – I missdid you today. That statement from his little mouth brought tears to my eyes. Jamie – I missdid you too! He is my greatest treasure.

Have a peacful productive Saturday!!

Construction Challenge Aug 11-12

2009-08-13T05:49:00.003-04:00

2 Boyz on Vacation!
I wanted to play with depth, dimension and edgies with this layout. I used a lot of pop dots to stagger the height of the strips of Patterened Paper. This "layout" will actually be framed for the mom of one of the boys. A memory gift of her vacation.
Tomorrow is Friday! That means the Willow Blog Hop!!

Be sure to check back because I am going to do a RAK this weekend. It is a very special RAK and I will tell you all about it tomorrow!!