The Scraps of Life

Gearing up for the holidays

2010-11-15T11:56:00.004-06:00

It has been far too long,

How are all of you in blogland?

Things have been quite busy on my end

I can't believe November is half over!

I am looking forward to Thanksgiving and all

the yummy food that goes with it...

We had a great Halloween

The kids decided to dress up in a Toy Story theme:

I tried my first "fancy" pumpkin carve using a linoleum

cutter and an assortment of pottery tools.

Introducing Hamm!Here I am with the kiddos

(including baby #4!)

Since it has been so long since I last posted...
Here is a class I taught in October
using the awesome "Halloween in Wonderland" line by Graphic 45

I haven't done a lot of scrapping lately but here is one of my recent favorites
Crate Paper's Restoration line is definitely one of my favorite CHA releases!
It's tough to tell in the photo but I used Tim Holtz
distress crackle paint in "Shabby Shutters" on the word "BEAUTY"

Roman celebrated his 5th birthday and here is a fun page I made
I used October Afternoon's "Seaside" papers and also
some fun little kraft tags from Maya Road
Can't forget the Maya mist!
(I used fern and blueberry on this)

On November 30th I will be teaching another installment of the Bored Housewives...
"Tinsel Time"!
I designed this class with Cosmo Cricket's "Mitten Weather" line
I just love the colors, especially the lavender
I am offering 2 classes:
one at 10:30 AM, the other at 6:30 PM
Call (816) 228-4944 to sign up!

Here are a few closer shots

One more class:
Christmas Tags!

I truly appreciate you stopping by my blog today

Your comments just make my day!
*Tara*

A big thank you

2010-09-09T09:35:00.003-05:00

First, I want to thank all of you who took the time out of your lives to make cards for Summer and Tia.

I know these will mean so much to them!

I was amazed, cards even came from as far as The Netherlands.

Thank you again for your kindness and thoughtfulness. I'm sorry it's been so long since I've posted, I've been quite sick with my pregnancy. Finally the "morning" sickness has subsided...just in time for pneumonia to move in!

I've been in bed for days :( I'm feeling a bit better today but still not back 100%

I do have a new class I will be teaching at The Scrapbook Workshoppe.

I used the school line from We R Memory Keepers for this 2 page layout.

We'll do some paper piecing and make a mini book that goes in the right hand corner of the layout.

The best part is the class is only $12.50!

I will offer two classes on Tuesday, September 21st: 10:30 AM and 6:30 PM

Just call the store to sign up (816) 228-4944

I haven't done much creatively but here is a layout I made with the new My Mind's Eye Lost & Found paper & embelishments.

(a little Jenni Bowlin & Tim Holtz added in there also )

I love this line, it's the perfect mix of flea market and glitz.

This photo was taken in Georgetown, Colorado.

We were delayed due to a traffic accident on our way to Steamboat Springs and we ended up spending several hours in this quaint and charming little town.

It ended up being one of the highlights of our trip!

Thanks for stopping by my blog today, I hope your day is wonderful!

Please read- I need your help!

2010-08-14T11:22:00.002-05:00

On August 2nd, some close family friends of ours were in a plane crash in San Diego http://www.cbs8.com/Global/story.asp?S=12911943

On board were Greg, his wife Lori and their 3 children Summer (11) Tia (10) and Austin(8)

Lori was pronounced deceased at the scene and Austin later passed in the hospital

Greg and the girls are in bad shape with countless broken bones and many surgeries ahead of them.

Summer and Tia are in medically induced comas to help their bodies heal.

First and foremost, I ask for your prayers for the Crane Family

Second, I am organizing a card drive for the girls.

I cannot imagine the physical pain these young girls are facing and the emotions they must be feeling.

Be it a small gesture, I believe a card could brighten their day and bring a smile to their face.

If this is something you'd like to do then simply make 2 cards (one for Summer, one for Tia)and mail them to me, I will mail them in one giant care package to the girls.

(I'd like to do this by 9/1)

Tara Powell

708 SW Joseph Circle

Grain Valley MO 64029

Since this tragedy has taken place I have really started to look at my life differently.

We truly don't know how long we have on this Earth, how long we have with those we love.

God could take any of us at any time. No one is untouchable and each day is a gift.

I can't imagine the pain that this family is facing now.

The unthinkable truly has happened.

I just pray everyday for their healing and for God to comfort them in their time of complete sorrow.

I took this photo while in Steamboat Springs and I think it totally sums up God's promise.

Even in the midst of the darkest of storms, he will never leave or forsake us.

I had some free time the other night and made a few layouts

This first one is Koby and Mia back in 2004, they were so little!
Finding these photos brought tears to my eyes, it seems like just the other day they were this little.

They start 1st and 3rd grade this week for Pete's sake!

Next time I blink they will be grown.

Here are a few baseball layouts of Mr. Koby, the MVP pitcher

I am so proud of the leadership he has shown on the team

While at the World Series one of the other players fathers made a comment about how Koby was one of the "Saltiest" players he'd seen.

I asked him what that meant and he explained...

"It means he has pure grit and is totally committed to his team and the game. Every game he leaves his heart and soul on the field"

To hear someone say that about my son just made my day.

I just love these pictures of him, he is such a little guy still but in these photos you can just see the pressure of the game on his face.

He holds himself to such a high standard and isn't satisfied unless he does his absolute best.

The kid truly eats, sleeps and breathes baseball.

I am so proud of his determination and dedication.

Last week my youngest sister, Natalie, and I went to the Lady Gaga concert. Talk about a show! We had so much fun. And yes, if you are wondering that IS a giant bow on my head ;)

Thanks for reading my super long post, I promise I am going to try and be more diligent with updating my blog!

Have a great weekend and remember to kiss and hug those you love.

An update from Tara- BIG news!

2010-08-05T16:17:00.004-05:00

I have some big news, I won't keep you in suspense...

I am due around Valentine's Day! We recently moved into a new home...
I have been concentrating a lot on my mixed media art work
Here is a piece I recently finished
It is on a 40X60 canvas and has several different textures and mediums on it
It is available for sale in my store

Here is a 4 piece canvas that I recently sold
These canvases were 12x12 each

July 17 was my birthday, I am now 29

(eek!)

I know 29 is still young but I have a sneaking suspicion that

the years will just fly by from here on out.

What's that saying?

"The days are so long, but the years are so short"

For any of you that have moved and had to move all of your scrapping supplies

I'm sure you can relate, it is NOT fun!

Paper weighs a TON and it really gives you perspective on how

fast the stuff can accumulate!

Lately I have been very good about not buying more scrapbook supplies

unless I know it's something I am going to use in the very near future.

It is so easy to let this hobby turn into a product hoarding frenzy and

that is SO not what it's about

It's about preserving memories and in 15 years my kids won't care

whether I used the latest or trendiest products on their scrapbooks

With school being out my scrapping time has been pretty non existent

but here are 2 pages I managed to quickly crank out

the other night:

Koby has started moved up from machine pitch to kid pitch baseball

He is one heck of a pitcher, so fun and intense to watch!

During a recent game he had 9 strike outs and held a total shut out

until the last inning of the game

We recently went to Steamboat Springs, CO to take Koby's team

to play in the World Series.

It was the first time I'd been to the state and I fell in love!

The mountain air, the amazing scenery, and everyone is so active!

Everywhere you look people are riding bikes, walking their dogs,

I just loved the lifestyle there.

We will go back next July and I am counting the days.

I would love to go there this winter and see Colorado in it's snow covered majesty.

I doubt being pregnant on skis is that good of an idea though...

I can make all the promises in the world about trying to blog more often

but the reality is life happens and gets in the way

I miss blogging and miss hearing from all of my online friends

All I can do is try to get back in the habit of updating, once it

becomes more of a habit it's easier and becomes second nature

Thanks for reading my update

I hope each and every one of you are doing well!!

crash.

2010-05-03T16:42:00.002-05:00

Honestly, this describes my life lately.

Crash. Boom Bang.

I was in a car accident on Friday and here's what's left of my vehicle.

God truly had his hand on me and for that I am thankful.

It was raining cats and dogs and I hydroplaned at about 60 mph on the interstate

It spun me into the guardrail, and around 180 degrees into head on oncoming traffic.

The airbag deployed and beat me up pretty bad but not nearly as bad as it could have been.

Seconds after I got off the road two other cars hit the same spot and would have hit me if I hadn't moved in the nick of time.

God is GOOD, no he is GREAT.

Lately my family has had numerous challenges thrown our way and I have been battling with anxiety and depression in a big way.
I'm sorry my blog has sat abandoned but I honestly haven't felt I've had anything worth posting
I did make a layout last week and need to take a photo of it, maybe I'll post it later
Things have just been really rough lately.
I'm sorry to be such a Debbie Downer but I wanted to post an update, no matter how bad things get I know they can always be worse and I am thankful to be surrounded by my family and friends that love me (You know who you are)
I know that this too shall pass
:)

Could it be true? Tara posted an update?!?

2010-03-08T14:47:00.004-06:00

I can hardly believe it myself!

Not a day goes by that I don't think about my blog

How it's sitting all alone, left in the cold

Probably crying itself to sleep at night

Feeling unloved and neglected.

Wait, am I talking about my blog or my scraproom?

Probably both!

Things have been busy, I know, same story, different post!

While I have been insanely occupied I have still managed to crank out a few artistic creations

This is a piece I painted with Golden acrylics on watercolor paper last week

At first I didn't like it but it's starting to grow on me.

Here's a banner I made with the GCD Studios "Homespun Chic"

They had a design team call that I thought I would try for and then I forgot the deadline and missed it! How typical.

Here's a fun layout titled "Flaky Fun" that I made with some My Mind's Eye and Jenni Bowlin

I used some Maya Mist and Maya Road snowflakes as a mask, such fun!

Mia and her Daddy had a blast sledding back in January (even though they broke the sled! LOL)

Mia celebrated her 6th birthday in December and here's a layout I did using Jen Wilson's Life Stories paper, I LOVE this paper!!!

Of course the adorable Sassafras just adds cuteness to the page.

Do you like my misting along the edges?

I misted over some doilies and really am pleased with the way it turned out.

Another birthday layout I quicklyput together using some of the new MME Quite Contrary line

The stamp is Studio Calico and it is a new fave of mine

My best bud, Tina lent it to me

If she thinks she's getting it back she has lost her mind! LOL

This is another quickie I made

I challenged myself to use scraps/materials that were on my table and nothing else

This is the result!
My Koby was missing his 2 front teeth for months but one is finally growing in!
He is thrilled, to say the least

I saved my favorite for last...

This Homespun Chic line is one of my favorites I have seen in a while, anything retro is right up my alley (Being that I am the Head Housewife of the Bored Housewives!)

The black and white letters are K & Co and I have stocked up on them, LOVE them!

My family has been going through a lot lately

If you wouldn't mind saying a prayer for us I would appreciate it more than you could know.

I have total faith that God will see us through this storm
Thanks for stopping by my blog today

I have missed you all!

A new found hobby

2010-02-05T12:40:00.009-06:00

I am ridden with guilt over my blog.

It's hard to believe it has sat with no new posts for another month.

New businesses truly require a lot of time!

We have met so many kind people in our short time in business, and made many satisfied customers. (Just read the feedback on our facebook page!)

I do have a new found hobby but let me bring you up to speed with my scrapping hobby first!

I took somewhat of a hiatus from teaching but got back in the groove and designed some things for Valentine's Day.

Don't you love the Cupid line from Pink Paislee?On this mailbox I used the Crush line from Teresa Collins

I got the mailbox from the Dollar Spot at Target, can't beat that!

The white Prima flower has been misted with Cherry Metallic Maya Mist

I have really taken a liking to Maya Mist, their new colors they released at CHA are gorgeous!

The Scrapbook Workshoppe got them in and I just had to have Carnation Pink, Blue Hydrangea and Fern Green. Such bright, springy colors.

Want to see some new pages I've done?

Here is a funky one I used a lot of Studio Calico on

(The mist used is the Fern Green Maya Mist I was just harping about)
Here's a fun layout with more Studio Calico

I used the January Add on kit for this

When I saw the wooden letters it was love at first sight!!

Missouri has received it's fair share of snow (and then some!)

Collage Press hit a home run with their JoyRide line

I knew it was the perfect paper to scrap these photos of the kids sledding

Have you seen the Jenni Bowlin/Coredinations cardstock?

Here's a small strip of it on this next layout:

Just a fast one I threw together in about 10 minutes

I LOVE these photos of Lola & the boys!

Punctuality is a must for my oldest son, Koby

He hates to be late!
(I could learn a thing ar two from him...)
We overslept one morning, needless to say he wasn't in that good of a mood.

One more snow layout!

Now, onto my new obsession...
Mixed media & acrylic paint!!
My friend, Tina, has been a mixed media maven for some time now
and has graciously started to share her knowledge with little old me!
I love how there are no rules and anything can be used as ephemera
Golden acrylics and mediums are my new drug of choice...

Here is my first piece, "So it Seams"
I used pieces of a vintage Butterick pattern and do you recognize the black floral paper?
Basic Grey! The sewing machine stamps are Studio Calico, I used UTEE to emboss them and then did a light glaze of Titan Buff.
(This is a 16x20 canvas)

Another fun piece on paper with more vintage fun

This isn't mixed media but just a painting I did as a gift for my mother in law

I played around with Light Molding Paste on this

I hope she likes it!

If I can give you any idea of how busy I am...

I started typing this post at 11:00 AM.
It is now 5:30 PM and I am just now finishing

Have a great weekend!

As promised...I'm BAA-AAACK!

2009-12-31T11:40:00.006-06:00

As promised, I am back!

Things have been extremely busy around here and it just seems like the longer you go without blogging, the easier it is to postpone it for another day.

But 2010 is upon us and I want to start it right!

I didn't want to post photos of my December Daily until the outside was finished but I'll show you anyway :)

I used a Prima canvas album and glimmer misted with Peppermint Stick & then Marshmallow on top of that. I plan on putting some green ribbon over the album's edges and possibly stitching "December 2009" on the front...

Here's a peek at some of the inside pages:

I got a lot of my embellishments off of etsy.com

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ormolu

http://www.etsy.com/shop/elles

http://www.etsy.com/shop/livingroomfloor

We have been doing lots of holiday baking

I made over 10 dozen Italian cookies with the help of my 2 sous chefs:

(Notice Miss Mia's new haircut? She got a cute little bob!)

Yum Yum!

Here the kids are on Christmas Eve, so excited for Santa to come!
We tracked Santa all night thanks to the NORAD Santa Tracker

It was utter madness once Santa reached the USA, the kids went bonkers!!

And then the magic of Christmas morning

Koby was so thrilled to get the Guinness World Book of Records!

(he didn't get his 2 front teeth though)

Mia with her Littlest Pet Shop animal

And Roman rocking out!
Santa brought Rock Band!!

We had a White Christmas

Here's the proof!!

We still have several inches of snow on the ground, with a forecast of more to come!

I haven't taken the kids out to play in it yet but hope to soon

I'm sorry I was away for so long and have missed all of my friends

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday with your loved ones

Can you believe 2009 is coming to a close?

It was a tough year for many and I am looking forward to 2010

I am thankful for my health and for the good health of my children and husband

Have a happy and safe New Year's Eve!!

This is just freaking RIDICULOUS!

2009-12-30T13:15:00.002-06:00

Who deserts their blog for a MONTH!?!
What kind of blogger does that?!?

Especially at the holidays?

With three kids and a new business?

Seriously?

I have sincerely missed all of my friends and reading your blogs

Sometime within the next 24 hours I promise to give you an update on me, my life and even post a few pics of my December Daily!

I guess this is somewhat of a tease of a post, just wanted to let my readers know that I am still alive.

I will be back soon!!

A day of blessings.

2009-11-29T12:49:00.004-06:00

Hello friends!

First and foremost I must apologize for my absence.

I never realized just how much time my new business would consume and I have a totally

new outlook on life!

Hats off to all the working moms out there (AND single moms!)

I don't know how you do it.

I feel like I am doing it all, but none of it well :(

This really bothers me as I strive for excellence in all arenas of my life

I know once the store has been open longer we will get in a better routine, in the meantime I am just thankful that God has blessed us with

a flourishing business in these tough times.

It's amazing how busy we have been and how our community

has welcomed us with open arms.

There are other furniture stores in town but we are trying to create a niche and be totally different from them. So far it's definitely working!

I haven't scrapped or done anything creative in weeks and it really is taking a toll on me.

I long to create, I've even been dreaming about it at night!!

Once I get these 42 loads of laundry done I just may have a few spare minutes...

We'll see.

How was everyone's Thanksgiving?

Mine was perfect.

My mom made the turkey this year so that was a big relief

I was just in charge of sweet potatoes, hash brown casserole, cranberry sauce and my famous caramel apple pie...

Gobble Gobble!

My kids...I tell you
Someone needs to teach them that it's not polite to dance until dinner is over.

Here are my sisters and mom and I

After dinner was over I turned on my favorite iTunes playlist and we all danced berserk around the house! I would post some pics of myself dancing but those were all promptly deleted.

Champagne will make you do some crazy things!
Here is Mia and Aunt "Boo" though..

Once we were all tired from dancing we sat down and played several games as a family

We just got Pictionary Man, what a fun game!!

The box said ages 14 & up but once it got to the kids turns we just made a list of easier prompts for them to draw and had them draw one from a hat

I have so many things to Thank God for this year, some simple and some not so simple

In no particular order here goes...

my amazing supportive husband, running water, a cozy bed to sleep in, healthy and beautiful children, the talent God has given me, my 2 sweet dogs, the privilege of living in the United States, my fabulous camera, my safe vehicle, Scooter's coffee, my washer and dryer AND dishwasher!, good music to listen to, good books to read, the new Target that just opened by my house!, safe schools for my children, the amazing teachers at our Montessori school, my friends- in real life AND online friends, oh, and paper and scissors :)

May you have a blessed day and take a moment to count your blessings.

Survived the Grand Opening, soooo busy!

2009-11-18T15:08:00.003-06:00

This whole last week has been a blur

So sorry I haven't had time to update!

Our store opened on Saturday

We had a fantastic turnout!

We were there working Friday night until 4 AM so you can imagine the amount of caffeine that was needed to get us going...

Today was our ribbon cutting ceremony with the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce

We had a pleasant surprise, Bryan Pratt, our Missouri State Representative

came and had a Resolution in honor of our store!

What an honor. Here we are cutting the ribbon...

Mike & I

This is such an exciting feat for us, Mike truly has put his blood, sweat and tears into this

(well, not so much tears...) :)

The store is going to be a success, I can just feel it!

Koby, Mia and Roman...

bless their little hearts,

wanted to play in the leaves last week.

We have one tree that has leaves and this is the extent of it! LOL

Oh, almost forgot to tell you!
I was featured on the ClearScraps blog for my Noel album!

Talk about exciting!

Hopefully this is just the beginning of more exposure for my work

It truly is my passion and dream.

I have missed all of my blog friends so

and promise to update you again when I have a spare moment.

(Maybe once the kids are in college?)

((I know, funny, right?))

Have a great Wednesday!

Jingle Jingle Jingle! And a new exciting venture for me...

2009-11-10T10:55:00.008-06:00

Hi everyone!
Happy Tuesday!

I know I have briefly mentioned our new store but it's really happening, this weekend is the grand opening!

Our sign is up, I love how it turned out!

Take a look at our website, it's the temporary site, our permanent site will have tons of unique features like a custom room builder etc. It should be live in a week or so

In the meantime here's our site:

http://www.quality4less.com/

Become a fan on Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Blue-Springs-Furniture-Gallery/201787249815?ref=search&sid=1003763416.411901949..1

And follow us on Twitter!:

http://twitter.com/bsfurniture

Now, the BIG reveal of my Christmas mini album!
I used a Clear Scraps Mixables album for this and the lovely papers are Pink Paislee Mistletoe & Co.

This was SO much fun to do, I really am enjoying alcohol inks!

The glitter used is Pink Paislee Pixee Stix in Cream Soda & Chocolate

I also used the PP press ons & Expressions glitter alphabets in Berry

I will be teaching this class at The Scrapbook Workshoppe on Friday, December 4th @ 6:30 PM

The cost is $48 and I know this will fill up fast!

Call 816-228-4944 to get your name on the list

Here's a layout I made yesterday of Roman with his pumpkin guts LOL

I used the fun "Boo to You" line from My Mind's Eye

My lovely friend, Lisa T. Howard awarded me with this:

Here's the rule: I need to pass this award on to five people, post on their blog to let them know I left this award, and then I need to answer a list of questions in ONE word

(Umm, I think I'm going to break the rules on that one!)

Here goes!:

1. Where is your cell phone?

in front of me

2. Your hair?

in a ponytail

3. Your mother?

strong

4. Your father?

stubborn

5. Your favorite food?

seafood

6. Your dream last night?

Lady Gaga was in it? LOL

7. Your favorite drink?

frozen drink

8. Your dream/goal?

total security in all aspects of life

9. What room are you in?

kitchen

10. Your hobby?

scrapbooking (duh.)

11. Your fear?

losing someone close to me

12. Where do you want to be in 6 years?

Maui

13. Where were you last night?

home with crazy kids

14. Something that you aren't?

a size 4

15. Muffins?

blueberry

16. Wish list item?

to have a great grand opening this weekend!

17. Where did you grow up?

Independence, MO

18. Last thing you did?

talked to my hubby

19. What are you wearing?

jeans & striped boatneck tee

20. Your TV?

TiVo is my boyfriend

21. Your Pets?

2 poodles: 1 is 6 lbs & 1 is 70 lbs!

22. Friends?

so blessed to have them

23. Your life?

very busy

24. Your mood?

content

25. Missing Someone?

my sister

26. Vehicle?

Tahoe

27. Something your not wearing?

jewelry

28. Your favorite store?

Nordstrom

29. Your favorite color?

robin's egg blue

30. When was the last time you laughed?

this morning

31. Last time you cried?

last week?

32. Your best friend?

Mike

33. One place that I go to over and over?

The Scrapbook Workshoppe

34. Facebook?

every few days

35. Favorite place to eat?

Ruth's Chris

I am passing this award onto:

1.Kim

2.Rebecca

3.Greta

4.Andrea

5.Becky

Still haven't got my December Daily started but I will, I promise!! :D

Have a wonderful day

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Caramel Apple time!

2009-11-07T09:25:00.006-06:00

Our favorite apples are HoneyCrisp apples.

They are seasonal and when they are available we eat them like crazy!

I have been promising the kids that we would make some caramel apples with them

Talk about delicious!

the finished product:

patiently waiting for them to cool

Watching Koby eat his caramel apple with no front teeth was quite entertaining, I must say :)

I have been scrapping lately

(No, really?)

Here's a fun layout I made with Roman on his 4th birthday

I just can't use this Monstrosity paper enough, it is SO dang cute!

I also used several Jenni Bowlin things, LOVE her!

Here's a baseball layout with Mr Koby

The little baseball player in the left corner is glimmer misted

(I used my Cosmo Cricket negative chipboard as a mask)

Here's a quick Halloween layout I did using Inspired Blueprints Sketch #32

I just love their sketches!

I typically try to create my layouts on my own but it is SO nice to work off a sketch, make a cute layout and be done with it!

The papers I used are My Mind's Eye

Another quick layout on Coredinations cardstock with a little Pink Paislee, Basic Grey & Cosmo Cricket.

I love the way this next layout turned out, and it only took me about 30 minutes!

The bingo card is Tattered Angels and of course I used Glimmer Mist on it

I used a Pink Paislee Pixie Stix glitter for the word SPOOKY and then heated it with my heat gun to take the super shiny glitter look off it (it looks more distressed now)

The background paper is Basic Grey, don't you love those spider webs?

The cute little ghostie stickers are Making Memories, I picked them up at Archiver's for 99 cents! And that was full price! How can you go wrong with that?

I am working on completing a Christmas album with the new Pink Paislee

"Mistletoe & Co" papers, you guys are going to love it!

I'm working with alcohol inks with it and the effect is amazing

I promise to post pics once it's finished!

Another fun project I am starting is a December Daily album (a la Ali Edwards!)

My friend, Tina and I are going to do this together and I am SO excited!

What a wonderful way to document your Christmas traditions over the years!

Ah, so many projects, so little time!

As I like to say, I am "Tortured by Art" LOL

Thanks for stopping by, I hope you have a fabulous weekend!

Take time to appreciate the little things, they really are the BIG things.

We survived Halloween!

2009-11-02T17:26:00.005-06:00

How was your Halloween weekend?

Busy?

Was the weather good or nasty?

We expected rain but ended up havng a perfect night

for Trick or Treating.

Typically we visit the pumpkin patch a few weeks before Halloween

but this year we waited until the last minute

We were still able to find some good pumpkins,

(and they were super cheap to boot!)
I even let the kids gut their own pumpkins.
It was quite entertaining...

Mike carved our baseball team logo into one:

Mia wanted a spider

Here are the kids in their costumes,

ready to go get some candy!

Here they are with some old witch:

All in all it was a very fun night, and I was thrilled that

there was no school the next morning.

New rule:

Halloween should be on a Saturday night from now on!

I have been scrapping a little bit

Here's a layout I did with the new Nutmeg line from Cosmo Cricket

The leaves are Prima, I altered their shapes by cutting them

They were white to begin with so I used glimmer mist to color them

Here's a fun layout I did about my blog!

A fast but sweet one that I used Basic Grey's Indian Summer on:

And lastly one with Roman

(in all his naked glory)

I used the Fancy Pants Rough & Tough papers

for this plus several Cosmo Cricket rub ons

Thanks for stopping by

Your comments bring a huge smile to my face!

Halloween Eve is here

2009-10-30T09:12:00.003-05:00

Is everyone ready?

Candy bowls stocked?

Pumpkins carved?

I'm in quite the festive mood today

(despite having three kiddos with the sniffles!)

They are all happily watching

Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas

(one of our favorites)

and I am enjoying my coffee and about to read some blogs! The two older kids are out of school, parent teacher conferences :)

I kept Roman home because of his sniffles and sneezing.

He was very sad, his school was visiting the Waterford Ladies Home today

Each year for Halloween the Montessori children visit the ladies and make Halloween cookies with them

Koby & Mia loved it when they were at Montessori and Roman couldn't wait until he was old enough to go

(You have to be 4)

I explained to him that the elderly ladies have a much harder time getting better from a cold than he does. I would hate to get one of them sick!

He's still peeved at me but he will get over it.

I think we'll just have our own cookie party here at home today!

This week was the Book Fair at our school

For me as a child, the Book Fair was almost as good as Christmas!
I would save for months so I could buy all the books my little heart desired

Koby and Mia did the same thing, it really tickled me!

I made them each a bookmark for their new books:

Back view:

I told Koby that if his best friend, Kole, wanted one that I could make him one also Instead he came home telling me that Kole wanted one and he promised them to the rest of his class as well! Eek! Maybe I'll have them done by Christmas?...

I want to share a Halloween banner that I made using

the Spiders Web line by My Mind's Eye.

I had so much fun making this!

Isn't it a great piece for the mantle?

Don't you love the little skeletons?

Or "Bone Daddies" as Roman calls them LOL

Thanks for stopping by today!
Here's wishing everyone a SPOOKTACULAR Halloween!
(and good weather vibes to all of you!)

58 days until Christmas!

2009-10-27T11:57:00.003-05:00

Well Jolly by Golly!
Can you believe there is only 58 days until the BIG day?

Guess that means you better start on those holiday cards!

Here is the next Bored Housewife Card Club class, "Snow Day"

I will be teaching this class at The Scrapbook Workshoppe

on Monday, November 30th @ 7:00 PM

The cost is $18 and kits are available!

All papers are Cosmo Cricket from the Jolly by Golly line

Don't you love them?!?

Speaking of this paper, here is a layout I made using them

These photos are from Christmas Morning 2006

Mia wanted a Baby Alive so bad and was absolutely thrilled when

Santa brought it!
The poinsettias are new from Prima, talk about beautiful!
I also used some of the Jolly by Golly chipboard and stickers

This is a little project I meant to share with you

but it was buried under 2 other projects!

That never happens to any of you though, does it? ;)
I used the new Nook & Pantry line from Basic Grey on this

It was made for a challenge using "Inchies" over at the AMM anniversary crop

Last I have a fast but cute layout I made with Sassafras Monstrosity!

I have lots to do today and a sick little one...

Thanks for stopping by!

Zoot suit riot- COSTUME REVEAL!!

2009-10-26T08:53:00.004-05:00

How was your weekend?
Mine was a lot of fun, between teaching a class, our Halloween party and a baseball tournament, I was pooped last night!

I think I went to bed earlier than I have in years...9:00!!

I know you have been waiting to see my costume selection...

Well wait no longer!
Now first I want to tell you, this wasn't my original costume choice.

I was going as June Cleaver and Mike was Ward Cleaver...

until the dress I had started to "dry rot" and had a huge hole in it!

I was so disappointed

We threw this look together the day before luckily...

Note to self...never wear a wig again!
Talk about itchy and uncomfortable!
Fuggedaboutit.
Here is my friend, Leslie and I.
She was Robin Hood :)

Speaking of costumes...

This little guy has been in his everyday since we purchased it

Here he is watching TV in it yesterday...

the kids were on the floor romping around and I actually got them to sit still for a moment!
Wonders never cease :)

Crush took 1st place in the tournament this weekend

Here are the boys telling your they're #1!!

(My guy Koby is 3rd from the left, with no front teeth)

Sorry I don't have any scrappi-ness to share

I taught my Glimmer Mist album class on Friday night and it was a doozy!

Promise to have some new stuff to share in the next few days though

Have a wonderful Monday!

Sneak Peek at my Christmas cards and Friday Faves!!

2009-10-23T10:10:00.003-05:00

Happy Friday, everyone!

Are you excited for the weekend?

I am!

We have baseball tournaments and a Halloween party

I can't wait for the party, I love dressing up!

I won't reveal what my costume is but I will give you a small hint... I will be wearing a dress

I know, that's a dead giveaway, right?! :)

I have been busy creating with Cosmo Cricket's new "Jolly by Golly" line

I just love it! They never fail to hook me with each of their lines, I can't think of a single one I don't like!

Here is a fun layout I did last night

I misted the whole paper with Frozen Lake Glimmer Mist

I also outlined all of the swirls with Stickles in "Diamond"

(one of the best colors Stickles has in my opinion, so versatile!)

I won't share all of my cards quite yet but here are 2 teases!

Now for my Friday Faves

I'll do 5 this time :)

1. Silly little boys.

Roman is obsessed with SpiderMan
Everyday when he gets home he takes his clothes off and into the SpiderMan costume he goes!
He has walked into numerous walls with that mask on his little head
(hey, at least it has holes for him to breathe out of though!) LOL

2. Design team calls /Submissions

I have entered a few lately and I am bound and determined to make one!
Although the "no's" are disappointing I feel that I get better with each passing day.
I truly believe that by the end of 2009 I will be on a design team of a brand that I love.
I won't give up!

3. Uggs

I broke out my Uggs today for the first time this season
Putting them on are like seeing an old friend again
I would love to have about 5 more pair...

4. School Pictures

My kids got their school pictures back this week
I remember how excited I used to be to get mine back!
Cutting them up and exchanging with friends was the best
Last night I helped Mia with hers,
it touched my heart to see how excited she was

5. World Series!

I am rooting for the Angels, let's go in there and
show these damn Yankees what's up!!
(Wish my KC Royals were there but that's a whole other post)

LOL

Tell me one of your "faves" from this week!
Have a great weekend

Collage Press Love...

2009-10-21T16:00:00.004-05:00

Hello there

How is everyone's week going so far?

I can't believe it's already Wednesday

Have you been creative today?

I have been playing with Collage Press "Knave of Hearts" and "Sweet Shoppe" papers

and here is what I came up with!
I just love their designs, so fresh and unique!

I can't wait to get my hands on the new Christmas line from them, "Joy Ride"

Here is a little cupcake card, simple and sweet!

A layout of Roman and I

One of Miss Mia on her first day of Kindy

another card

and this is my favorite layout...

I used a bunch of buttons and did some stitching

Here is a paper mache book I altered

I used Tim Holtz distress paints in Concord Grape, Spiced Marmalade and Black Soot

I topped it off with Glimmer Mist in Graphite to give it a aged but shimmery look

The bling around the 31 is Heidi Swapp, it was clear but I changed it to orange with alcohol ink!

If you look closely you can see the crackle effect on the photo

I used the new Tim Holtz Rock Candy...love this stuff!

The chipboard key and lock are Maya Road, papers are Knave of Hearts

If you are familiar with CP you will see a small piece of Grayson Hall on here as well!

Thanks for stopping by and visiting me today

I have been busy working on Christmas cards so stay tuned!

Happy happy Saturday!

2009-10-17T21:44:00.008-05:00

How is your weekend going?

We are busy busy busy but having lots of fun!
Last night we took the kids to Spooktacular at Powell Gardens

It was pretty chilly but we enjoyed ourselves despite the weather

Without further ado, I give you, Billy Mays, Hamburger Montana and SpiderMan.

This is the first year they have had free reign over their costumes

(I know shame on me)

and I am so amused at their choices!

"Billy Mays here!"

The Best of Both Worlds (just on a sesame bun)
Spectacular Spectacular SPIDERMAN!
And here I am on the trolley with my brood :)

Today we played in the "Monster Bash", a Halloween themed tournament in Kansas

We had to be there at 8 AM and it was an hour away, and fittingly enough it was colder than a witch's tit!

In May we went to one of their tournaments and were comparable to the Bad News Bears

I am proud to say that today we were UNDEFEATED!

GO CRUSH!

There were lots of spooky decorations and the kids loved it

Afterwards we went for pizza at our favorite pizza place, Tim's Pizza

Tim, the owner is such a great guy,

the kids love to watch through the glass as he makes our pizza!

Over at A Million Memories there is a Big Anniversary party going on!

I will be honest, I never quite "got" what an online crop is but now that I have officially participated in one, I love it!

Stacy Cohen gave us a sketch challenge and here is my take on it:
(I used the new MME Colorful Christmas line that I won on the MME blog!!! I just got it on Friday and can't wait to make more fun things with it! Thanks, Amber!)

Then we did a Mystery Layout challenge with Lucy Edson and it was so much fun

Every 15 minutes she gave us instructions on what to do next

Here is what I came up with using the new Basic Grey "Eerie" line

(I feel a little silly making a layout of myself called "Hot Mama"

but seriously, I had just given birth like 2 weeks before this photo was taken!)

If you have a minute drop by AMM, the challenges are great

and they are doing tons of giveaways!

Wish us luck tomorrow, we will play in the championship for the Monster Bash

Don't tell anyone but I think it's in the bag

;)

Have I told you that I love Glimmer Mist?

2009-10-15T08:48:00.008-05:00

My local scrapbook store, The Scrapbook Workshoppe,

got the new Tattered Angels Chip Tiles in yesterday

and I just could not wait to create something with them!

I came up with this spooky accordian banner:

added some cobwebs and spiders to make it extra spooky!

up close detail
on the moon and gate I used a white and gray crayon for resisting
I also used Tim Holtz distress embossing powder in Black Soot on the gate under the birdmore detail

Overall, I'm pleased with the way it turned out
I can't wait to try the other Chip Tiles!

Fall has come to Missouri, although it feels like an early winter!

It has been rainy and blustery for the past 2 weeks, not a ray of sunshine!
I don't mind days like that here and there but after a while it gets depressing.

I took some photos yesterday just around my yard

Autumn is my very favorite season.

Speaking of things I love...

How about a "Thankful Thursday"?

1. My babies.

They are so precious and dear to me

Everyday I look at them and have to pinch myself

How did I get so lucky?

2. Thanksgiving.

Can't wait for this day to come!

I am already "researching" recipes for my turkey

Each year I try a new recipe/technique.

In the past I have done brining, maple glazing, and the old standby Herbs de Provence

3. Good Friends.

Yesterday my friend, Tina, and I got to sneak away and scrap together for a few hours

She shared all of her Studio Calico exclusive papers & stamps with me

I was drooling! I have never subscribed to a kit club before but their things are too fun.

So retro-mod!

4. A wonderful Man.

I truly don't think there is a greater man, husband, father

or coach better than Mike!
He is selfless in every sense of the word and knows how to

make me feel like a million bucks.

He surprised Tina and I yesterday while we cropped and brought us lunch.

What a guy!

5. Entertaining pets.

My house is full of them

Between the 6 lb poodle and 70 lb poodle

who are constantly at each other's throats,

the "stray" turtle we rescued and the 200 gallon saltwater aquarium

I have enough to keep me entertained...and crazy. ;)

Life is good,

no,

Life is GREAT.

Enjoy your Thursday, friends.

Some new things to show you!

2009-10-12T11:02:00.005-05:00

Why is it that Mondays are so rough?

It seems that we are always running late and dragging butt on Mondays

(Staying up until 3 AM on Saturday night probably didn't help much)

Mike & I were invited to our friend Chad & Tamera's house for dinner, drinks and games

We played The Newlywed Game, Cranium and ended the night with Shuffleboard.

Chad played DJ all night which was entertaining, it was fun "requesting" songs LOL

Sunday was football day, we are loyal Kansas City Chiefs fans

which frankly, has been quite depressing these past few seasons.

We used to buy season tickets but haven't lately.

See how great our seats were?

Here is a random photo of my kiddos I thought I'd share with you:

I finally drug some fall/Halloween decor out...

this is a witch that my Grandma made, isn't she awesome?!?
Like my giant spider on top of the lamp?

I made 2 layouts yesterday with some of my new October Afternoon

I LOVE this paper!!!!

These photos are from a 2007 Montessori field trip to Shatto Dairy Farm

First I'll show you Koby...

I did some stitching on this and I really like the way it turned out

Everything on this page is OA with the exception of the milkcaps and journal spot

(They are Jenni Bowlin)

and now Miss Mia the "Milk maid" ;)

It was so funny, she milked the cow and the milk squirted all over her

(that explains the face in the last pic!!)

I also used some Jenni Bowlin on this page

the sheer journal spot and leaf pins are Maya Road.

I stitched in pink on this page to match the little piggy on the paper

Mia adores pigs and was excited to see the little oinker on her page!!

That's all I have for now

Enjoy your Monday

(whether you are dragging butt or not)

;)

2 Year SCRAPIVERSARY & CKC!!

2009-10-09T19:21:00.005-05:00

Today is my 2 year "SCRAPIVERSARY"

and I spent all day at CKC with my friend, Becky!

I even won a door prize!!

Saw my friend, Robin

Here are the cards that were turned in today for the contest
I was expecting a lot more!

I think I bought one of everything here!

(Got all of the new "Report Card" and "Farm Fresh"!)

Fell in love with this Clear Scraps album by Tonya Dirk

And now....

Where it all began.

Here is my first layout that I ever made!

I have tons of new scrappy goodies and can't wait to lock myself in my scraproom

and create, create, CREATE!
Have a great weekend!

Guess what tomorrow is?

2009-10-08T23:10:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow is my 2 year "Scrapiversary"!!

I made my first layout on October 9th, 2007

and have been obsessed ever since.

If you come back tomorrow I will post

a photo of that layout.

It's amazing to see how far I've come.

It's late and I have so many shows TiVo'd that I need to watch

but I have a few things to share...

I made this Halloween layout today with the new

Making Memories "Spook Alley" collection.

Once again, I used my Pink Paislee Twilight stamps

(I have sure gotten my $4.99 out of those puppies!)

The bats were cut out of last year's "Night Light" by MME paper

It's hard to tell in this photo but I used 2 different colrs of Distress Stickles,

Spiced Marmalade (my new favorite!) and Fired Brick.

Tomorrow I am going to CKC and Paper Crafts is turning 5!

They are having a birthday card contest and I decided to give it a try.

On this card I used papers from My Mind's Eye Abbey Road

I did a lot of distressing and scraping with my paper piercer

and also used Glossy Accents for additional texture.

Wish me luck!That's all I have for tonight,

come back tomorrow

and help me celebrate my

SCRAPIVERSARY!

My first blog award, and my baby is 4!

2009-10-07T09:20:00.009-05:00

I am so excited to receive my first blog award from my dear friend, Jocelyn!

I look forward to reading her blog everyday, she has faced quite a few challenges lately but still remains an uplifting and postiive person. Thanks so much Jocelyn, this means a lot to me!! Here is how it works....

*Say thank you and give a link to the presenter of the award

*Share “10 Honest Things” about myself

*Present the award to 9 other bloggers whose blogs I find brilliant in content and/or design or to those who have encouraged me

*Be sure to tell the 9 bloggers chosen that you are giving them the Honest Scrap award and provide the guidelines for them

So here goes, 10 honest things about me...

1. Since I was a young girl, I have wanted a large family.

Mike and I originally planned to have 6 children! Yikes.

I still don't feel that our family is "complete" and if God

blesses us with another child I would be thrilled.

(although Mike says "No More!")

2. I love to bake.

My specialty is caramel apple pie.

I hate to toot my own horn but I've never

tasted another that compares!!

3. I am obsessive-compulsively clean.

(physically at least...my house could use some work!)

I have been known to take 2-3 baths a day.

4. I need to shave my legs and my toenail polish is chipped.

5. I am anal about spelling errors.

Maybe I should have been a teacher?

6. I am the oldest of 3 girls.

Being a "mother hen" just comes naturally to me.

We are spaced several years apart but remain very close.

(I am 28, Raven is 23 and Natalie is 17)

7. I still color in coloring books.

I even have my own box of 96 count Crayolas

and the kids aren't allowed to touch them!

8. I am scared of snakes.

While we were in Oklahoma for the World Series

Would you believe a snake got in my house?!?

She was a bit freaked out.

After I found this out I told Mike I wanted to move. LOL

9. I LOVE to read.

I have been a bookworm since a very young age.

If I don't have a book to read then something just doesn't feel right.

I am so happy that I have instilled the love

of books and reading into my children as well.

10. I was scared to tell you 10 honest things about me

at first! It took me a while to figure out what to say!

So, the moment of truth...

I am passing this award along to:

Lisa

Julie

Becky

Sarah

Staci

Deb

Greta

Rebecca

Jill

Yesterday, my youngest little guy, Roman, turned 4.

It is so hard to believe!

Here he was just hours old.

This was him at school during his "Celebration of Life"

At Montessori school they celebrate each child's birthday like this:

"Birthdays are a time to focus on the birthday child’s special day, emphasizing his or her growth since birth. We celebrate birthdays in our classrooms in the following ways:
We dramatize the passage of time since birth by having the birthday child carry the earth’s globe around a candle, representing the sun, one time for each year of your child’s life.
We read special events in the life of the birthday child, as supplied by the parent for the teacher to read or told directly by the parent if they are available to come to class on that day.
We invite the birthday child to bring one photo for each year of life. Your child will be asked to talk or write about each photo. "

blowing out his candles

And here was his party at home:
Can you tell he likes SpiderMan?

4 days old or 4 years old he will always be mama's boy!

Thanks for stopping by my blog today

Your sweet worlds and friendship means so much to me!

Here's the exciting news!

2009-10-05T14:54:00.004-05:00

I promised that I had some exciting news and made you wait all weekend...

Well here it is!
My glimmer mist album is featured on the A Million Memories blog

as layout/project of the week!

It was chosen by Susan Dupre, so a huge thank you to her!!

I am so flattered to be recognized on this site, which is home to some of the most talented scrappers and artists in the industry today.

(Need proof? Just check out their gallery!!)

I am getting excited for this weekend, CKC is here in Kansas City!
I am going with my friend, Becky and I can't wait!

Yesterday I was able to spend some uninterrupted time in my scraproom

It rarely happens so I took advantage of it.

I started a layout but wasn't really "feeling" it so I made a mini acrylic album instead!

I used all Pink Paislee "Twilight" and I think it turned out pretty cute

The orange edges are done with alcohol ink, which I love to work with!

These pictures were taken last year at Powell Gardens Spooktacular

It is an awesome event that we go to every year, I don't know who enjoys it more

the kids or me!

Well that is all for now, enjoy the rest of your Monday!

Make a card! It's World Cardmaking Day!

2009-10-03T17:20:00.002-05:00

Happy World Cardmaking Day!

Here is something I made earlier today using My Minds Eye Boo to You

Isn't it fun?

Halloween is my favorite holiday other than Christmas

I have a fun costume in mind but you guys will have to wait and see what it is!

Do you like to make cards or would you rather just buy one?

I used to be Hallmark's #1 customer until I started making my own.

It's such a nice way to let someone know that you're thinking of them

and took time out of your day to make them something.

Awwww

I know, what a sap! ;)

Ok, back to regular programming...
Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

I'm here, I'm here! I'm alive!

2009-10-01T21:18:00.008-05:00

Shame on me for neglecting you for so long!

Almost a week! I tell ya, these kids and husband of mine need to realize where my priorities lie...Scrapping, Blogging, and then them!

(You know I am only kidding)

We have been busy with baseball, school and work.

I'm not sure if I've mentioned it here but my husband and I

are starting a new business venture.

We are opening a furniture store!

I am very excited but know it's going to be a lot of work.

It will be located in Blue Springs in the new Adams Dairy/Coronado development.

It is right next to Texas Roadhouse and Planet Sub. Our grand opening is November 6th!

Last weekend we took the kids and went to the Plaza Art Fair

Any of you local Kansas Citians know what an fun (and free!) event this is.

Where else can you:

a. look at awesome art

b. bring your dog!

c. drink a Bellini while doing all of this! ;) I'll share some of my favorite pieces with you...

I know you are dying to see, right?

This is hilarious, don't you think?

Here is my favorite, simply titled "BabyMaker"

Ah, a woman after my own heart! LOL

These little siamese robot twins caught my eye, aren't they great?

And this is FAB!

All in all it was a beautiful day, great weather and well behaved kids even!

Moving right along...this is supposed to be a scrappy blog right?

Well guess what, I've got some new layouts to share with you!
Here is a 2 page spread with some birthday photos of Koby. He was turning 6.

He is now 7.5...better late than never though.

(sure....slacker mom!)

I used MME Abbey Road papers and Maya road chipboard

painted with Distress crackle paint.

The letter stickers are Pink Paislee

Here is one that has more recent photos...this time of Mia and her friend, Mia!

I just LOVED these pics and couldn't wait to scrap them. The colors are awesome!

EEEK! Halloween is getting close!
Can you guys believe it is October 1st already?
Here is a layout using the brand new MME "The Spider's Web" papers
Aren't they delicious?
The pics are from 2005 but I could scrap them over and over
(I think this is the 4th layout I have done with them on it!)

Just one more (I know, I'm long winded tonight, eh?)
These photos are so near and dear to my heart, I will never forget my Little Miss Mia
dancing with her Daddy at my cousin's wedding back in June.
She sooo has him wrapped around her finger!
He's not too strict with her...he says she can date when she's married.
LOL!

This week I received some very exciting news but I am going to make you wait until Monday to hear about it. (What a tease!)
If you are still reading then, thank you.
Thank you for being interested in me and my crazy life.
Each one of you mean so much to me and your comments just brighten my day!!

Now I'm off to my happy place...
(hot bath!)
Goodnight!

Blogging for Bliss

2009-09-25T10:13:00.004-05:00

Good Morning to all of my cyber sisters
What is the weather like where you are?
Here in Missouri it's the perfect temperature, 60 degrees and the sun is shining!
The kids are all off to school and I have lots to get working on but I just had to tell you all about an amazing book my good friend, Tina, gave me yesterday.

It's called Blogging for Bliss and it's written by Tara Frey.
I have read 2 chapters and am totally inspired!
If you are wanting to start a blog or just tweak yours a bit then you will love this book.
I am so lucky to have Tina as my friend. The two of us are so much alike however she is about 5'9 and blonde and I am brunette and 5'1 ;)
She also teaches at The Scrapbook Workshoppe and is such a fun person to be around.

Did anyone watch the new show, Modern Family this week? Talk about HILARIOUS! Cougartown is on after it (Courteney Cox stars) and it was equally as funny

Well I need to get going but here is a little about me from A to Z!
A- Age: 28
B- Bed size: King
C- Chore I love: none
D- Dogs name: Maci and Lola
E- Essential start to my day: brush teeth!
F- Favorite color: tiffany blue or periwinkle
G- Gold or Silver: silver
H- How many times have you been outside the USA: zero :(
I- Instruments I play: I have played the piano, flute and clarinet
J- Job title: Mama & wifey
K- Kids: Koby-7 Mia-5 Roman-3
L- Living arrangements: house, 4 bedrooms 3 bath
M- Most popular dessert at my house: ice cream
N- Number of times I have stayed overnight at the hospital, not counting my own birth: 3 times (once with each child)
O- Outdoor activity I have never tried but would like to: jet ski
P- Pet peeve: rude people, oh, and the toilet paper hanging the wrong way!!
Q- Quote from a movie: "Leave the gun, take the cannoli"- The Godfather
R- Restaurant I could eat at everyday: Ruth's Chris
S- Siblings: 2 sisters Raven- 23 Natalie-17
T- Time I wake-up: 7:45 because I have to, but if I had to choose...10:00 AM ;)
U- Unknown fact about me: I dream of being a country music singer!
V- Vegetable I dislike: asparagus
W- What is my dream vacation: a month on the Greek Isles
X-X-rays I've had: teeth, snkle
Y- Yummy food I make: I make the best sugo you've ever tasted (Italian pasta sauce) and my enchiladas are so good you'll slap your grandma!

Z- Zoo favorite: penguins

Have a great weekend!

Spooky Album Spectacular!

2009-09-22T14:13:00.007-05:00

Happy Tuesday, friends!

I am soo excited to show you what I've been working on

It is a Glimmer Mist Halloween album that I will be teaching at

The Scrapbook Workshoppe

on Friday October 23rd at 6:30 PM.

The cost is $49 but for that you get 3 mini bottles of Glimmer Mist, a set of Halloween Glimmer Screens and a set of Pink Paislee stamps!

What a deal!

There are only 8 spots available so if you are interested, call and sign up ASAP

816-228-4944

(Charlene will accept credit cards over the phone)

Last night I had a little time to scrap and made this layout with the new

Sassafras Sweet Marmalade and Amplify papers

Sassafras never ceases to amaze me with their

originality and flair for vintage goodness!

I also used some Pink Paislee letter stickers and of course

the new glitter "Jewelry Box" Thickers

Tomorrow is school picture day so I must get busy with outfit planning

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Allergic.

2009-09-21T09:02:00.000-05:00

Some of you may know I have severe allergies.

These last few days have been miserable for me.

It's been a blur of sneezing, snot, itchy swollen eyes and drowsiness.

I haven't got much accomplished but I did get a layout finished for a class...

"Trouble @ 2"

Tuesday, October 27th

$15.00

I used the new Sassafras "Monstrosity" line on this, are they not the CUTSEST papers ever?!?

I am taking the class When Life gives you Lemons over at Get it Scrapped and I proudly used a "lemon" in this layout. Can you spot it?

It's the middle photo on the left hand page. It was blurry but I cropped it down and used it anyway. At that point in time Roman had this cheesy little chipmunk smile and this was the only photo that showed it close up. Even though it's not the most perfect photo, it still tells the story.

Even though I have been feeling like a walking snotty tissue my beautiful kiddos have kept me entertained.

Here is Koby at his game on Saturday, notice the 2 different batting gloves for good luck?

He hit a home run so I guess they worked.

And my sweet diva, Mia, on the phone with Grandma. I think they talked for almost an hour!

Last but not least, the family goof, Roman. Where do they get these ideas?!?

Enjoy your Monday, friends!

Woo hoo! I won!

2009-09-16T13:35:00.000-05:00

I am so thrilled, My friend Staci Taylor recently had a giveaway on her blog and I won!

Sherry Steveson is teaching an awesome class over at Get it Scrapped called

"When life gives you lemons: make sweet pages from sour photos"

I just bought her new book at Hobby Lobby, Amazon also has it! check it out :)

Today is a busy day for me, I have a class to prepare for tonight but I just had

to check in with all my friends in blog-land!
Have a great hump day ;)

Friday Faves!

2009-09-11T15:02:00.001-05:00

First of all I feel like I have to recognize that today is September 11th.

I was fortunate enough to have not lost any loved ones on that tragic day but I know people that did. My heart goes out to them as I know it must be a difficult day to get through :(

I am going to try and start a new weekly blog post called "Friday Faves"

Here goes my first attempt!

1.New Fall TV!

I am thrilled with all the new shows on for fall!

-"Glee" is fantastic, I love all the music and it is really a funny show!

-America's Next Top Model- I know this isn't a new show but I still get excited for each new "cycle"! This one is a first because all of the models are 5'7 and under! Yay for the non-glamazon short girls! (I am 5'1 so I totally relate)

-The Vampire Diaries- yes, I know it's on the CW and their shows tend to be a bit cheesy but this show may have potential! However the vampire looks about 30, not much of a high-schooler!

2.Yoplait Delights Yogurt

OMG- if you are a fan of yogurt this is a must-try

I am addicted to the Lemon Torte...heaven!

And even better...only 100 calories ;)

3.Gloriana
They are a new country band, just bought their debut CD and it rocks!
Still country music but a little Fleetwood Mac-esque.
Nice scrapping music

4.New scrappy stuff!!
My favorite store The Scrapbook Workshoppe is getting shipments of new goodies everyday
Among them are: "Abbey Road" from My Minds Eye, "Monstrosity" from Sassafras, New Fancy Pants "Rough & Tough" boy paper, new Bazzill dotted swiss scalloped cardstock, TONS of new Prima...I could go on and on!

5.Sunshine Cleaning

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0862846/

If you are looking for a good movie to watch I highly recommend this one. I'm a big Amy Adams fan and she was great in this.

6.Giant Mushrooms
Get this. A ginormous mushroom grew in our yard, all that was missing was some little gnomes to live underneath! Roman took it in to share with his class and of course they were fascinated.
It's amazing how much entertainment can be had through giant fungus.

I made a layout yesterday with Fancy Pants' new "Trick or Treat" paper line.

It is such a fun line, I LOVE all of the monsters!

I will be teaching this at The Scrapbook Workshoppe on Tuesday October 20th at 7:00 PM

The cost is $15.00

if you'd like to sign up or purchase a kit just call (816) 228-4944
I am super excited for this weekend, tomorrow night myself and 25 other girls are going to see Mamma Mia at Starlight Theatre.

It's going to be a blast!
Have a great weekend!

Funnel cakes, four wheelers and a few new kits!

2009-09-07T23:30:00.000-05:00

How was your Labor Day weekend?

Mine was superb.
We did a whole lot of nothing and it was great!

Once a year there is a festival in Independence, MO called Santa Cali Gon Days

http://www.santacaligon.com/

Ever since I was a child it's been a tradition to go, look at the craft tents, pig out on funnel cakes, root beer, kettle corn etc!

This year I thought my kiddos would enjoy going to the carnival and maybe riding a few rides.

They had other plans!
Half an hour and $30 later we left the carnival with three tiny, cheap, worthless, crappy stuffed "animals" (I'm still not quite sure what kind of "animals" they are...)

So much for this ride, Mom!However, Roman did this jump thing and pretended he was SpiderMan the whole time!

Lots of fun to watch ;)

Can't end the evening without enjoying a funnel cake!

Today was spent laying around the house and playing outside with the kids.
Koby and Mia took turns going with rides on the four wheeler with Daddy (with helmets on of course)
I asked Mia if she had fun and she told me she saw a dead deer with vultures eating it.
Nice.
Then she told me it may have actually been a horse because it was pretty big.
Even better.

I actually was productive in a the scrappy sense though!
A new scrapbook store has opened up in Lee's Summit, MO called "Scrapbook Boutique"
It's located at the corner of 3rd and Douglas in the downtown area. (such a fun place to spend the day!)
The owner, Judee is just as sweet as can be and her store is sure to be a hit!
I will be making kits for her store and the price of these two are $15.00
(click on photos to see larger)
If you are interested in either of these kits you can call the store at (816) 525-0060

Well tomorrow is back to school and back to work!
Have a great night :)

Lost: Mojo, Reward if found!

2009-09-04T15:09:00.000-05:00

All week long I have been meaning to update my blog but never seemed to have anything that important to talk about!

I've been busy trying to complete an album for a client (I scrap for hire) and my creativity seems to be zapped.

Where oh where has my mojo gone?

So Labor Day weekend...whoopie!

Hopefully the sun will come out so we can go do some fun family things.

Koby's baseball tournament was cancelled, all of the other 8 year old teams pulled out at the last minute. (Guess they heard Crush was going to be there and got scared!)

Speaking of Crush...I've been meaning to share some of my World Series photos with you, now just might be the perfect time!

Here is my auto-graffiti for the drive down :)

Finally, our name in lights!Crush moms, showing team spirit (my toes are the orange ones!)The team on the field at BricktownKoby, Number 5, in the process of throwing someone OUT!Hitting a home run!
Preparing to slide into home! (Check out the look on that catcher's face!!)
I promise to have some new creations to share with you within the next few days

Enjoy your holiday weekend!

Monday musings

2009-08-31T10:13:00.000-05:00

This weekend I was able to go to a 15 hour crop with 3 of my favorite scrappy friends

By the end of the night we were delirious!

I completed this layout, "October Memories" and will be teaching it as a class on September 22nd at The Scrapbook Workshoppe.

(just click on the photo to see it larger)

Here's a layout I made with Melissa Frances Fresh Twist papers: It's hard to believe that baby in the photo is nearly 4 years old now!
See how big he is now?
(And isn't the new Sassafras "Me Likey" line too cute?!?)

Here is a layout featuring Miss Mia on her first day of Kindergarten

I used mostly Jenni Bowlin on this

And another with Mia, this time as the "MVP Diva"

My LSS recently got in this new baseball paper from Best Creations and I couldn't wait to work with it!

I also worked on a mini album (the new Melissa Frances Bingo card book!)

It's not yet complete but I will post some pics as soon as I finish it.

I can't believe tomorrow is September 1st!

August has flown by.

Here in Missouri we are having some early fall weather, it got down in the 40's last night!

Fall is my favorite season so no complaints from me!

This weekend our baseball team will play in our first fall tournament and I can't wait.

We have some awesome new players on our team and I can't wait to see them all in action. Now that I have a few photography classes under my belt I'm looking forward to getting some great shots!

Enjoy your Monday!

2 new classes!

2009-08-26T10:52:00.001-05:00

So sorry it's been a week since I've updated!
I had this crazy preconceived notion that once the kids got back to school I'd have all this free time...what was I thinking?

I have been busy creating though.

Last week I picked up the store's Pink Paislee order from Rebecca herself at her house...talk about Scrapbook Heaven! I think I heard angels sing when I saw all the Pink Paislee!

Here is Class #3 in the Bored Housewife card club, "Spiked Apple Cider"

I am in love with this paper, the colors are just beautiful!

The class will take place on Wednesday, September 16th at 7:00 PM

To sign up for the class just call (816) 228-4944

The cost is $12.50 and kits are also available!

Next we have a fun class called "The Witching Hour". I used the new Pink Paislee "Twilight" paper line for this and love how everything turned out! This class is October 13th @ 7:00 I promise not to stay away so long again!

Have a fab Wednesday :)

The BIG day.

2009-08-18T10:23:00.000-05:00

Well it is official.

My baby girl is a kindergartener.

It didn't really hit me until this morning and then the tears began to fall.

Koby is such a gem, he assured me that he would help her with her lunchbox at lunchtime and pick her up in her classroom at then end of the day.

How many big brothers do you know that will volunteer to do that? Having your name on your backpack makes life more bearable ;)
So do knee socks and mary janes...

And here she is with her emotional mama, smiling through her tears!

For the rest of you out in blogland, Happy Back to School!

Back to School Flashback

2009-08-15T10:18:00.000-05:00

Last night we had "Meet the Teacher" night at Koby & Mia's school.

I am thrilled with their teachers, I think this is going to be a great year!

Mia is starting Kindergarten and this will be her first year not in Montessori.

I think she is a bit sad but also excited to go to "big" school with her brother.

Koby is starting 2nd grade and it just doesn't seem possible.

Time has flown by! Here's a layout of him on his very first day of Montessori.

(he was only 2!)

Fast forward a few years...

And I'll end with my baby, Roman.

Here he is starting Montessori last year.

Tonight I have my 10 year high school class reunion...should be interesting! Have a fun Saturday!

And so the last week of summer vaca begins

2009-08-10T11:23:00.000-05:00

This summer has truly flown by, it's hard to believe that in one week the kids will be back in school!

Personally, I prefer starting school the first week of September.

It just seems like tradition, but what do I know? ;)

On one hand I'm excited to have them back in school so I can actually get a single task done (no, really?)

On the other hand I will miss their little faces and silly antics.

Each day I try and remember that these days will be gone before I know it.

I've been having lots of fun with my new camera, here's one of my favorite shots of my Mia:

I just love the innocence of her big eyes.

I'd like to keep her at this age forever.My hibiscus are in bloom full force! I love them, they're like my own little bit of Maui here in dreadful Missouri LOL

Last night I did some scrapping after watching my fave show- True Blood.
Anyone else watch?
I have read all the books (by Charlaine Harris) and I highly recommend them!

Anyhoo, here are my layouts!
Enjoy your Monday!

Confessions of a Tooth Fairy...

2009-08-07T10:20:00.000-05:00

Koby now has one less tooth.

He and Mia were rough-housing and in the mix the tooth came out.

Little did I know that at the time he also was chewing watermelon bubble gum...

Just so you know, I have always told my kids "No gum until you are 10", however this summer I have gotten a little relaxed with that rule. NEVER AGAIN!!

Somehow the gum got all over the couch and carpet...I was thrilled.

All I have to say is Thank God for Goo Gone!

Fast-forward to later that night...

Koby is getting ready for bed and super excited for the Tooth Fairy to come.

He puts his tooth in the little bag and places it under his pillow, and off to dreamland he goes.

I told myself, "Don't forget to get his tooth and leave some money!"

What did I go and do? Fall asleep!

Morning-

Koby runs into my room and says, "Mommy! My tooth is still there! She didn't come!"

Crap.

"Well Koby, I let her know that I wanted to keep your tooth this time. Surely she left you some money though!"

I stealthily run and grab some cash and put in under his pillow...

"See? It's right here!"

"oh! I didn't even see it Mama!"

phew!

Target had a ton of toys marked down 75% off so we picked up a giant bubble maker

Roman made the biggest bubbles of everyone, believe it or not!

This pic is my favorite...

Have a great Friday!!

Off to clean the scraproom...

2009-08-03T10:27:00.000-05:00

This will be a short and sweet post...I am cleaning my scraproom today!

(If I don't post for a few days please alert the authorities...it's pretty hairy in there!)

Here is a layout I designed for a class, "Ready 2 LEARN"

I will be teaching this on August 20 at The Scrapbook Workshoppe.

The price is $15.00.If you want to sign up call the store at:(816)228-4944

Here is a funny of Koby and Mia.

You can totally tell the stage they are at with each other.

Some days they are best buds and other days they are out for blood!

They are 19 months apart so I assume that it's to be expected.

I used My Mind's Eye "Breaking Free" papers and embellies, it's one of the best summer lines out in my opinion!

Lastly I will share a layout about my 2 boys.

I took these photos with my new camera and I LOVE them.

They look so sweet and innocent.

Aren't the new Collage Press "Knave of Hearts" papers amazing?

I love their products, I recently bought some of the new Cupcake papers and can't wait to use them!

Enjoy your Monday, thanks for all your comments

They truly make my day!

New Cosmo Cricket!

2009-07-30T16:55:00.000-05:00

Thanks to a little birdie (Lisa T Howard!), I figured out how to get my new camera's photos onto my computer!

Thank God for smart friends. ;)

My second home, The Scrapbook Workshoppe (http://www.scrapbookworkshoppe.com/)

got the new Cosmo Cricket in already, I squealed with delight when I opened the box!

Here's a layout I made with "Earth Love":

and one I used "The Boyfriend" papers on!

Since it's been so long I will share a few more layouts

I used October Afternoon's Cherry Hill on this one

(These pics may look familiar to some of you!)And this is a mixture of Jenni Bowlin, Prima, OA and even a Cosmo Cricket sticker ;)Here's one of Mia with the new Basic Grey Lemonade line. I also used Core'dinations cardstock (gosh, I love that stuff!)

Now that I have figured out how to access my photos I will be posting some World Series pics very shortly...stay tuned!

bummer.

2009-07-29T10:28:00.000-05:00

I'm quite irritated, my computer does not recognize my new SD card that my Nikon uses.

I really want to post some of the photos I've taken!

Until I can figure it out I will post some pics from my point & shoot...

Notice Roman, all the way to the left.

This is exactly how I am feeling now.

On another note, we went to a Royals game. Here is a Koby, saying the Pledge of Allegiance.

And here he is next to the World Series trophy. I truly believe that one day he will play Major League ball, he has talent and heart like no other!

Have a great Wednesday!

28 days later..

2009-07-24T13:55:00.000-05:00

Has it seriously been almost a month since I last blogged?

Wow.

My sincerest apologies.

Things are going better health-wise for me.

Thanks for all of your prayers.

These past few weeks have been super busy.

We traveled to Edmond, OK for the Little League World Series and took 4th place.

Most days it got up to 106 degrees and it was miserable.

I will never complain about Missouri heat again!

I visited some very neat stores while there though, Paper Crown is one of the neatest shops I've been in!

http://papercrownokc.blogspot.com/

I also went to Just 4 Keeps, a very nice store in Edmond.

http://www.just4keeps.com/

My birthday was July 17th and I got the most fantastic birthday present ever...

A Nikon D60!!!

I have dreamed about having a SLR camera for some time and I literally cried tears of joy when Mike gave it to me!

Right now I am just shooting in AUTO mode but will be taking some photography classes in the coming weeks ahead.

Last night I taught my first card class.

I have started a card club called "Bored Housewife" Card Club.

We are at 17 members our first month and I couldn't be more excited!

The first class was "Dishpan Hands" and here are the cards I designed for the class:

Our next class, "Haute Mama" will be Thursday, August 20th at 7:00.The cost is $12.50 and anyone who brings a friend will get to make a free card.

That is all for now, I promise to post some new photos taken with my new camera in the upcoming days ;)

Prayers needed.

2009-06-27T00:28:00.000-05:00

Sorry I have been MIA for a few days

I'm having some health issues and could use some prayers/positive thoughts
I had some testing done today and will have a procedure done next week

I won't lie, I am scared but I know that God is in charge.

I have to brag about my new blog...

Shaina did my re-design and I couldn't love it more!

She is super talented and as sweet as can be.

(You can find a link to her blog in the left column)

On a happier note, Koby's baseball team has been invited to play in the

Little League World Series, July 12-19 in Edmond, OK!

We are super excited and working our tails off to find sponsors.

Enjoy your weekend, I will update soon :)

Call off the hits.

2009-06-22T11:55:00.000-05:00

ALERT! ALERT!

Call off the hits!

The bride and groom loved their album.

The wedding was amazing. Ashli has impeccable taste.

I took a ton of photos but will just share some of my favorites.

Here is my cousin, Nick, with his beautiful bride Ashli:

Roman is totally in love, all night long he told me "Mommy, I am still watching the princess".

When the princess came over to see him he totally clammed up though ;)

Here's a photo of her bouquet; peony, gerber daisy, calla lily, hydrangea, roses...can you say to die for?

Here's me in the middle of my little sisters:
And Koby, Mia and I

(just ignore my bra. Hey, at least I have one on!) And Nick, going in for the garter...

That boy is always prepared LMAO
Mia dancing with her Daddy

And I will leave you with the highlight of the evening...

My father after a few too many. I couldn't have been more proud.