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Bargains!

2010-07-13T14:45:00.004-05:00

I have been "couponing" since last year and am still amazed by what you can get for so little money! I can not believe what I used to pay for things - it was like tossing money out the window. This is what I got this week from CVS:

2 - bottles of Gatorade
4 - boxes of Pop-tarts (8 ct. each)
1 - large box of Q-tips
1 - Sunday newspaper
1 - 10 pack of papermate pens
1 - 5 inch pair of scissors
1 - full size John Frieda mousse
1 - full size John Frieda gel
1 bag starburst gummi candy

My grand total for all of these items after coupons and extra care bucks was $1.98! Less then the cost of the Sunday paper alone!

Crazy right?!

As good a time as any...

2010-07-11T14:56:00.003-05:00

Hello there!

I can not tell you how many times in the past months I have thought I should get back to my blog. I have missed it. I won't apologize for my lack of writing - sometimes life gets in the way and it is as simple and as complicated as that. I do hope this is the beginning of me "getting back on track" but again who knows? Only time will tell. I sincerely hope (if anyone is still reading this!) that you are all doing well and I hope to get back to my reader soon too.

Fondly,

Friday Fill-ins

2010-01-22T13:43:00.003-06:00

It's Friday! Time for Friday Fill-ins (haven't done one in awhile) be sure to check out a fun give away at the bottom of this post!

1.) You have the chance to start over every single day.
2.) Abbie is baking lemon pound cake right now!
3.)There is a great many things I want to do.
4.) Play now and pay later.
5.)It's time to get back to scrapping I have taken much to long of a break and I am missing my creative outlet!
6.) Jacob's high school schedule for next year is up in the air but we will figure it all out.
7.) And as for the weekend, tonight I am looking forward to having nothing scheduled, tomorrow my plans include haircuts for the boys, Sam's basketball game and some football, and Sunday I want to scrapbook after Abbie's indoor soccer game and shopping for a new computer.

Be sure to stop by my friend Char's blog - she is having an awesome give away for an Ella e-book! :0)

Happy Friday,

8 Things about 8 Things

2010-01-20T21:28:00.006-06:00

8 Things I like about 8 things :)

1.) I like lists. Simple as that - I have always been a list maker and this just falls right into place for me.

2.)I like that it is 8. I would expect 5 or 10 and I am glad it is an unusual 8.

3.) It brings focus to your writing. Not to little not to much - just right.

4.)Scheduled - I like knowing what I will be posting each week on Thursdays. Guess I like structure :)

5.)It gets me thinking and that is always a good thing.

6.)I enjoy reading the 8 Things that my friends who participate write.

7.)I plan to use many of the posts as a part of my scrapbook pages.

8.)The sky is the limit! You really can write 8 things about anything. Look - I just did it! :)

Want to join in? Check it out here.

8 Things: About The Olympics

2010-01-14T07:54:00.004-06:00

I am a big fan of the Olympics. I especially love the winter Olympics and am anxiously awaiting the opening ceremonies! So for today's 8 Things I am going to share some reasons that I love the Olympics.

1.) Pride - I always feel pride during the games. Pride in my country - yes - but also pride in all the athletes from every country and pride in the ability of all of us to cheer on others.

2.) Drive and Determination - knowing the kind of dedication and drive it takes to be an athlete of that caliber is just mind boggling to me. To be honest - it always makes me feel lazy. It also always makes me believe in dreams.

3.) Competition - gotta love a little good old fashion competition!

4.) Foreign lands - love, love, love learning little bits and pieces about the host countries and in most cases wish I was right there! (I am really excited it will be so close this year and in a country I love!)

5.) Unity - when I watch the games I feel a sense of unity with the rest of the world. How wonderful that people from all countries are gathered together in this one thing.

6.) Biographies - I am a sucker for biographies and really enjoy the short pieces when they feature an athlete and you learn a little more about them.

7.) Spectacle - yes- I like the oh and ah - the sappy commercials, the build up, the after game interviews, everything!

8.) Family Time - my whole family watches the Olympics together. It is something we all agree on, all enjoy and it is wonderful family fun!

How about you? Are you a fan?

Free 8x10 Collage Photo!

2010-01-13T08:20:00.002-06:00

I wanted to share this deal with all my scrapbook friends :) Walgreens is offering up a free 8x10 photo collage to anyone who is a fan on facebook. Just go here and become a fan then click on the fan offer tab to access this freebie.

Just use the code FANFREE when you check out and it will take the price of the 8x10 collage off! (If you select to pick it up at your local Walgreens you won't have to pay any shipping!) This offer is good only today (January 13th) so hurry!

I made one with all the pictures from Thanksgiving day so that page should come together quickly! Have a great day!

Feeling Scrappy Design Team Call!

2010-01-12T08:59:00.003-06:00

Just wanted to let you know we are hosting a design team call for several designer for Feeling Scrappy! If you have ever thought about teaching others using your creative talents this is your chance! Check out all the details here - Feeling Scrappy Design Team Call.

Hope you will consider applying!

Hello Friends!

2010-01-07T14:21:00.003-06:00

Some of you have noticed me "missing" on-line (thank you for the sweet e-mails!) Around Thanksgiving, I was feeling stressed about all the things I wanted and needed to do over the holidays and at the top of the list was to enjoy the time with my family. The only way for me to do this it seemed was to get rid of some of the stress I was feeling and the only way I could find to do that was to eliminate some things from my daily routine.

As much as I wish I could have gotten rid of laundry and cleaning to add time to my day - I ended up giving up the computer (for the most part) and scrapbooking. Gasp! It was hard at first but the time I usually spent doing those things was quickly filled up with holiday preparations and then holiday traditions.

The weird thing is - I am having a hard time getting my grove back after being away from it so long! I am over whelmed with my google reader (apparently everybody did not take time off from blogging!) and I find myself thinking - I will blog today but then it never happens. But here I am now on the 7th of January and I hope this will be the start of regular postings again.

With the New Year comes goals and resolutions for a lot of people and I am no different. Of course, I am on the weight loss ban wagon but I am also interested in focusing on a few small projects that I don't like each day so that I can do the things I like guilt free. Working out a plan for this now and hope to have it in effect by the 15th.

Hope you are all enjoying 2010 so far and I look forward to spending part of it with you!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T01:00:00.000-06:00

As you may have noticed, I have been taking a break from blogging over the holiday season but I wanted to stop back in to wish you all a very Merry Christmas. More then that though - my hope is that you will find joy in all kinds of little things in the coming year. Thank you for being a part of my life and for the friendship you have shared! {{hug!}}

Blog Candy

2009-12-14T09:08:00.001-06:00

My dear friend Char is having an awesome give away on her blog. Check it out! Today is the last day so hurry! :)

Layouts

2009-12-09T14:09:00.002-06:00

I haven't shared any layouts in awhile so I thought I would post a few today :) Both of these were made for the last Feeling Scrappy sketch class. I have been taking a small break from scrapping to get a jump on the holidays but I am starting to miss it so I am sure I will be heading back into the scraproom soon :)

Happy Wednesday!

Best Shot Monday - 12/7/09

2009-12-07T15:58:00.004-06:00

My best shot this week was this sunset taken on the James river. We took some time to go for a walk in our favorite spot - Belle Island and this was one of many photos I took during our hike around the island. So lucky to have such a beautiful spot so close to home.

8 Things: Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T11:30:00.004-06:00

For this Thursday, Thanksgiving day, I couldn't resist an 8 things I am thankful for today.

1.) Family - it is so nice to have our family gathered together here in our home. It is hard when you move away from family so twice as nice to have them here.

2.) Traditions - like fun rules. They give everything order and a starting point but are flexible and you can start a new one whenever you want.

3.) Food - enjoying dishes that we only make a couple times a year. YUM!

4.) Telephone - so glad we are able to talk with those we love that can't be here.

5.) Games - love playing board and cards games and am looking forward to some lively ones this afternoon.

6.) Weather - we have fantastic weather in Virginia - it is still fall here and just a beautiful, sunny, 60 degree day.

7.) Christmas music - yep - we start listening to it this weekend and I love it!

8.) Decorations - our house is all decked out and it look and feels so festive.

Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving my friends!

Friday Fill-ins 11/20/09

2009-11-20T13:12:00.003-06:00

It is Friday again and I have to ask - just where did this week go? Ahhh well - it's the weekend!

1.) We need a large area rug for our living room.
2.) Zoe just did this cute little yawn with a whine thing and it made me smile.
3.) If you want to be happy then just be happy.
4.) Fall is beautiful because of the weather and the colors.
5.) Massachusetts has proposed a 5% sales tax on elective cosmetic surgery; I think it is a great idea!
6.) Family traditions make for a happy holiday.
7.) And as for the weekend, tonight I am looking forward to dinner with the whole family, tomorrow my plans include starting on some holiday decorations and hanging more pictures and Sunday I want to relax.

Happy Weekend!

8 Things: Why at 11pm?

2009-11-19T21:47:00.002-06:00

It is 11 pm and I have not posted my 8 Things yet today. Oh I thought about posting - I just never forced myself to sit down and do it. So tonight I thought I would look at the 8 things (reasons) it didn't happen until now.

1.) My mood. Lets just say I was not at my finest today.
2.) Busy work. Lots and lots of phone calls and follow up phone calls.
3.) The rain. Which is partly to blame for #1.
4.) Physical pain. I have been having problems with my vision and my jaw which is giving me a killer headache. (Which is partly to blame for #1)
5.) Homework. The kids needed some extra help tonight and that ate up a good chunk of the afternoon.
6.) Overwhelmed. I have let myself become overwhelmed with my to-do list and thus I am not accomplishing much of it. (Which is partly to blame for #1 - see a pattern here?!)
7.) Good TV. I decided to watch Fast Forward and Grey's instead of being on the computer.
8.) Not wanting to share the yuck. I hate putting negative energy out there so I put off writing my 8 Things but it is 11 and I need to go to bed so it is what it is.

I have loved doing the 8 things and wanted to stay on track. Hoping for something better next week :)

Best Shot Monday - 11/16/09

2009-11-16T08:00:00.000-06:00

Sad, I know. We have had the flu visit our house this week and I have all of 6 photos to choose from. So this will have to do for this week. One of the trees in our yard.
Here is to a better photo week this week :)

Friday Fill-ins 11/13/09

2009-11-13T17:47:00.005-06:00

Abbie and her class pet Juliet 11/09

1.) The last band I saw live was Kenny Chesney.
2.) What I look forward most to on Thanksgiving is having company.
3.) My Christmas shopping is just getting under way.
4.)Thoughts of my mom and sister fill my head.
5.) I wish I could wear tank tops.
6.) Bagpipes remind me of Ireland.
7.) And as for the weekend, tonight I am looking forward to pizza and TV, tomorrow my plans include hanging some pictures and filling our new bookcase, and Sunday, I want to scrapbook (but not sure what we have in store!)

Hope you all have a great weekend ahead!

Layout (to go with 8 Things)

2009-11-12T07:19:00.002-06:00

I realized after my 8 Things post today that I had done a layout about this very thing a few years ago so I thought I would share. A few of the items have changed but many are the same.

What is on your night stand?

8 Things: On My Nightstand

2009-11-12T07:06:00.003-06:00

It is the second day in a row of rain here in Richmond. It's dark, gloomy, wet and a chilly 47 degrees right now all of which makes me want to crawl back into bed with a good book! For today's 8 Things I am going to tell you what is on my night stand.

1.) A Lamp - I love my lamp. I found it at Restoration Hardware about 6 years ago and I really liked it so my Dad got one for each side of the bed for us for Christmas that year.
2.) A Clock - I have had this same clock since I was in college - hey it still works so why change it?
3.) The Clapper - well not really a clapper but that is what I call it. I had always joked that I wanted the clapper to turn off my lights so I wouldn't have to lean out of the bed. Well last summer Don's mom got me this auto switch that sits on the corner of my night stand. Perfect!
4.) Water - you will always find a bottle of water on my night stand. I don't drink it very often but just in case.
5.) Lotion - I always keep some lotion there and put it on most nights before bed.
6.) Books - currently there are 4 in the stack.
7.) Bird - I have a little bronze bird statue that my Mom got me last spring break - it sits on top of my "to read" pile of books.
8.)Magazines - I have two there now - Scrapbooks Etc and Good Housekeeping.

Best Shot Monday - 11/9/09

2009-11-09T14:46:00.002-06:00

A little over exposed but I love the shadow cast by the center of the flower and I love even more that these are still blooming in our backyard!!
Happy Monday,

Cooking Light - Cheap!

2009-11-08T08:52:00.002-06:00

I just had to share this awesome deal with all my friends who like to cook! Amazon has a one year subscription for Cooking Light for only $5.00!! (It usually retails at $49.50.) I learned about this from Hip to Save Just go here to get yours. This offer is good for one week only.

Hope you are having a wonderful Sunday!

Friday Fill-ins 11/6/09

2009-11-06T10:22:00.002-06:00

1.) Plans and schedules keep me sane. I like order in my life.
2.) I'm happy when things are calm.
3.) The last thing I drank was water. That is about all I drink, I hate to waste calories on liquids!
4.) One of the most valuable things in my life is my family. Duh!
5.) I like veggie on my pizza. The more the better!
6.) Dear November, I love you - you remind me to focus on all I have to be thankful for.
7.) And as for the weekend, tonight I am looking forward to veggie pizza and a movie with the kids, tomorrow my plans include Abbie's last soccer game and some running around, and Sunday I want to scrapbook but will probably do something else with the family.

Have a great weekend!

8 Things: House details

2009-11-05T15:13:00.005-06:00

I was thinking about all the things I still want to do around our house to make it more like our home. When you move into a new house there is a lot to be done to make it "yours" and we are still working on that but there are some little details that I am loving and I thought I would share them today.

1.) My stove - See the layout above. It is so much better then any stove I have ever had and for someone that enjoys cooking that is important!
2.) My scrap space - 1st that fact that I have one at all is great but mine is over the top with potential! It is a large room with a slanted roof and large window. I am looking forward to the day I get some paint on these walls and some fun artwork.
3.) Trees - I can't tell you how much having trees in our yard makes a difference to me. I can still see houses but it is so much better seeing them through the trees. I feel like I have a bit of nature right here. I love that the squirrels and birds have a home and that they visit our yard often.
4.) My kitchen back splash - it is one of the things in the house that I got to pick out. I love the slate and the fact that it is strips instead of squares and that it is different from other things I have seen. (You can see a peak of it in the layout above)
5.) The mud room - having a room off the garage that has no other purpose then to toss shoes, backpacks and coats is awesome. It is good to have a dropping off stop when you walk in the door!
6.) Copper accents - I really like the copper accents on the exterior of our house. I have always liked the way that looked and I am happy we have some of our own now.
7.) Odd shaped windows - I really like the window in my laundry room and off the little bathroom - they are unique shapes and I love how they let the light in with style.
8.) Stair rail - I like the mixture of wood and wrought iron in our stair rail - it adds a nice texture to both our loft and our family room.

Layouts: Y&T - My Story

2009-11-04T14:07:00.002-06:00

I am currently taking a class by Ali Edwards called Yesterday and Today. I am a bit behind (it is tough to keep up with that while doing my sketch class on Feeling Scrappy - there is only so much scrappy time in a day!) Here are my first 3 pages (you can click on the layout to see it larger and read the journaling.)

Happy hump-day!

Best Shot Monday - 11/2/09

2009-11-02T16:41:00.004-06:00

Again - not the best technically but I love it - Abbie and Zoe fell fast asleep on my bed after a fun night of trick-or-treating.

8 Things: Halloween

2009-10-29T16:55:00.002-05:00

Since Halloween is almost upon us, I thought it would be fun to list the things I love about Halloween for this weeks 8 Things.

1.) The time of year. I love all things fall and Halloween is right smack in the middle of it.
2.) Pumpkins - love, love, love pumpkins! It is just so festive to see pumpkins all over the neighborhood!
3.) Costumes - it is always fun to help the kids think up what they can be for Halloween then to go on the hunt for everything they need to dress up
4.) Decorating the house - any chance to mix things up a bit and get in the spirit! We go for more of a fall look then a spooky one around here :)
5.) Pumpkin goodies - pumpkin seeds, pumpkin bread, pumpkin pie, etc...Yum!
6.) Adventure - I love seeing my kids go out with adventure in their eyes and a smile on their face.
7.) Little visitors - so much fun seeing all the kids at my door (especially the littlest ones!)
8.) Candy - sitting with the kids while they dump out the goods and show me all the "loot" then sampling a few of my favorites (heath bars and twix)

Hope you enjoy Halloween this year :)

Best Shot Monday - 10/26/09

2009-10-26T07:31:00.004-05:00

One of the new smaller trees in our front yard. I was so happy to see that it turned a beautiful fall color! Richmond is just bursting with color right now and it is so wonderful. I love fall!
Happy Monday,

Friday Fill-ins 10/23/09

2009-10-23T07:15:00.003-05:00

Next to the door in our mud-room that leads to the garage.

I love it and think it is a good reminder as we all head out for the day :) Oct 09

Friday Fill-ins
1. The crickets sing, and remind me of warm summer nights.
2. Come out, come out wherever you are.
3. I want to get far away from the flu. Praying our family stays healthy.
4. That there would be no more homework; this was a dream.
5. But as for me, I am back to WW and going strong.
6. The Midwest is where I come from
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to relaxing, tomorrow my plans include soccer then a sleepover with 4 girls for Abbie's birthday and Sunday, I want to go hiking but we have the girls to get home and then another soccer game in the afternoon.

Happy Friday!

8 Things: Favorite Movies

2009-10-22T09:55:00.004-05:00

For today's 8 things, I am going to share my 8 all-time favorite movies. I love each of these movies for different reasons but one thing is true for all - they are the ones I could watch over and over again :) So in no particular order, here are my favorites:

1.) Forrest Gump - What's not to love? To me this is the perfect movie - it follows someone through their lives so you are not left to wonder what happens, it is rich with history, has a fantastic soundtrack, characters that you really love, and it pulls you through every emotion that exists. Perfect I tell you!
2.) Grease - Ramma lamma lamma ka dingity ding da dong! So fun! I think am pretty sure I could recite every line and sing every song from this movie. I saw it when I was 12 and fell in love. Still love it to this day.
3.) Gone With The Wind - :Sigh: Everything a movie should be. Love, love, love it!
4.) It's a Wonderful Life - Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without a viewing of this movie. It holds a message that we all could use a reminder of - we are important and we change the world for the better everyday. It gives me the warm fuzzies Just thinking about it! :)
5.) Far & Away - This movie was not as epic or acclaimed as the rest on my list but it still ranks up there for me. I love the historical aspect of this movie - I am fascinated with the time it takes place plus a sweet love story always helps :)
6.) Sound of Music - Oh the music! The beautiful scenery! Those children! The history! That love story! Magnificent!
7.) Fried Green Tomatoes - The name alone would make it a favorite but they backed up that name with a winner of a movie.
8.) Steel Magnolias - The connections between characters can't be beat in this movie. I cry every single time I watch it.

What are your favorite movies?

A new sketch!

2009-10-20T10:17:00.004-05:00

Here is a brand new sketch. Check out the challenge over on Feeling Scrappy's Facebook Group page for a chance to win Sketchapalooza 5 class for free! Enjoy :)

Best Shot Monday - 10/19/09

2009-10-19T09:46:00.001-05:00

My sweet Abbie. Taken at the Melting Pot while celebrating her 11th birthday :)

Friday Fill-ins 10/16/09

2009-10-16T07:36:00.003-05:00

Our front porch 10/09

1. So are we going to North Carolina for Thanksgiving? Don wants to but it is still up in the air - we will see...
2. New furniture is what's up ahead. The delivery guys are coming this am!
3. I love to sleep to the sound of rain.
4. Leftovers of some sort is on tap for tonight's dinner.
5. I walk a little to little!
6. A positive attitude is the true elixir of life!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to a night in, tomorrow my plans include soccer of course and Sunday, I want to scrapbook in the worst way but we will see if I actually get to!

Have some Friday Fun today! :)

8 Things: About Abbie

2009-10-15T16:57:00.006-05:00

Abbie taken Sept 2009 while mini-golfing

Today is Abbie's eleventh birthday. How can my sweet baby girl be 11? I am so lucky and blessed to have a daughter like Abbie! For my 8 things Wednesday I thought it would be a great time to share 8 Things I love about Abbie :)

1.) She is driven. She sets a goal and goes after it - whether it is saving money or playing soccer - she works hard to get the job done.

2.) She is beautiful. Of course, I can not help but look at her through a mothers eyes but everyday I catch a glimpse of beauty in her.

3.) She is silly. She is not afraid to let loose and joke around - giggle and have fun.

4.) She is an animal lover. She loves animals of all kinds and I am so proud that she is taking the steps to volunteer at our local shelter.

5.) She is smart. Amazingly so - it is such a comfort to always hear good reports about Abbie when I hear from teachers.

6.) She is caring. She is always willing to lead a hand - she makes efforts to help the environment, her classmates, her family and her friends.

7.) She is changing. Each new day she seems to change in subtle ways as she reaches toward the teen years. It is amazing to watch it happen.

8.) She is a mama's girl. From the time she was born Abbie and I have had a special bond - she has always reached for me first and I am more then happy to have my arms wide open to welcome her.

Happy Birthday Baby - I love you so very much!

Best Shot Monday - 10/12/09

2009-10-13T21:55:00.003-05:00

A day late but here is my best shot from last week. We had a nice fire in the fire pit on Sunday night. It was so nice sitting around with my parents and the family talking, laughing, and of course roasting marshmallows and eating smores! :)

I have been enjoying a nice visit with my parents if you have been wondering where I have taken myself - be back Friday ready to catch up with all my friends. Hope you are having a great week!

Friday Fill-ins 10/9/09

2009-10-09T08:57:00.004-05:00

We got "boo'd" a few nights ago with a hit and run goody bag left on the porch. Fun! The kids had even more fun sneaking out after dark to leave our "boos" on two other neighborhood porches. :)

1. Sweet dreams is what I almost always have - I have only had a hand full of bad dreams in my lifetime.

2. It is so hard to get up when it is dark outside, especially for me.

3. Silliness in the form of made up songs is common around our home!

4. I think we will have more kids then ever stop at our house this Halloween.

5. Outstanding or not, I do not agree with Obama getting the Peace Prize.

6. Sweets are what I want right now! (I have been wanting sweets in the worst way lately!)

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to getting back to the gym then a movie with the kids, tomorrow my plans include watching Abbie play soccer then finishing up getting ready for my parents visit and Sunday, I want to spend time with my Mom and Dad!

Hoping all my Canadian friends have a happy Thanksgiving this weekend!

8 Things: About College

2009-10-08T07:10:00.004-05:00

This week I have been thinking about the past - college in particular. I attended and graduated from the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida and I loved every minute of it. It was a large university with over 40 thousand students and we affectionately called it USF - University of Sun and Fun. As you will read on, I am sure you will glean the fact that the academic part of college was - well - not to important to me. I did what I had to do and no more. I did however put lots of effort into living a fun life! :) So for this week, 8 things I loved about College.

1.) Friends & Boyfriends - I was surrounded with a great group of girls and guys, with so many people around there is always someone available and ready to hang out. There is never a shortage of people in and around a college that are in the same place in life as you. A smorgasbord of social outlets if you will :)
2.) Staying up late and Sleeping in - This was the perfect schedule for me the night owl! We wouldn't even think about going to bed until past 1 am and rarely got up before 11 am. Many times we wouldn't even start getting ready to go out until 9:30 pm - another world from my life today that is for sure!
3.) Night Classes - I learned early (my first year when I failed my one and only 8 am class) that morning was not going to work for me. (See #2) So I started taking night classes. The great thing for me was they met only once a week 5 pm to 8 pm for the same amount of credits as the day classes that met 3 times a week. Giving me all day and all night after 8:30 for fun! (See #1)
4.) My VW Bug Convertible - this little red car was so cute, dependable and cheap. (It cost nearly nothing to fill it up.) My friends loved to pile in with the top down and head for the beach, a party or a park.
5.) Living in the Sun - moving from Chicago to Florida was a shock to the system - in a good way. I loved calling home and hearing it was snowing when I had on shorts. I loved not owning a coat and being able to run out the door as is. I loved the casual, laid back attitude and dress of everyone that lived there. I loved the blue skies, the heat, the palms, the flowers and yes the sun!
6.) Hobbies - I had time - sure I could have studied more but instead I filled my extra time with hobbies. I learned to cross stitch and loved creating things while we watched TV in the afternoons plus buying every thread color known to man. I also learn to love antiques! Several of my friends and I would just go browse around the shops to see what treasures we could find. It started off because we didn't have much money and it was a cheap way to get some things but quickly became a love of mine.
7.) Bars - Yep, I said it. The drinking age when I moved to Florida had just been raised from 18 to 21 but since I was already 18 when it changed I was grandfathered in and was still allowed to drink. The drinking wasn't the important part for me it was being able to get into the bars and party with my friends. So. Much. Fun. We danced, we laughed, we ate oysters and wings, we flirted, we gossiped, we sang, and sometimes we cried.
8.) Freedom - to decide when to clean, when to sleep, when to study, when to party, when to eat...I did not always make the wisest choices of how to spend my time but even that taught me something about living with the consequences of your decisions. Being 18 - 22 was awesome for me - very few real responsibilities and a whole barrel full of fun!

What to play? Join in here.

Win a Feeling Scrappy Class!

2009-10-07T11:36:00.005-05:00

Feeling Scrappy is featured on Ella Publishing's blog today! They are giving away TWO spots in the Sketchapalooza 5 Class that starts October 26th. All you need to do is leave a comment to be entered to win. You have until Friday, October 9th ~ Good Luck!

Best Shot Monday - 10/05/09

2009-10-05T08:08:00.005-05:00

Hmmmm...Monday already is it? Not sure why but the photos on my camera from this past week were sadly lacking. So today I will share some photos of my daughter who has very straight hair. We have talked for awhile that it would be fun to put lots of braids in then take them out so she could have "fluffy hair." We did just that - it was fun for a day :)

Before:After:

Have a good week!

Friday Fill-ins 10/2/09

2009-10-02T11:31:00.003-05:00

The boys found this turtle in the woods near our house. Cool! 9-09

Friday Fill-ins:
1. I have a history of making lists - I have been doing it all my life.
2. Quilting is something I wish I knew how to do.
3. I'm eating (or recently ate) 8 can dump soup.
4. Beef jerky and music is what we need when on the road.
5. So that's it, that's the wrong fridge! Waiting another month for the right one.
6. Something is better than nothing!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to getting to bed early(so tired today), tomorrow my plans include soccer and more furniture shopping and Sunday, I want to get crafty and spend some time outside with the family!

Have a great fall weekend!

Blog Award :)

2009-10-02T10:52:00.004-05:00

My friend Stacey gave me this award on her blog so I thought I would play along :)

This award comes with some rules and a survey I have to fill out.

Rules

1. You Can Only Use One Word!

2. Pass this along to 6 of your favorite bloggers!

3. Alert them that you have given them this award!

4. Have Fun!

The Fun Part

1. Where is your cell phone? kitchen

2. Your hair? clean

3. Your mother? Indiana

4. Your father? Indiana

5. Your favorite food? Thai

6. Your dream last night? kids

7. Your favorite drink? water

8. Your dream/goal? positive

9. What room are you in? studio

10. Your hobby? Scrapbooking

11. Your fear? heights

12. Favorite place to eat? MeltingPot

13. Where were you last night? Home

14. Something that you aren’t? Athletic

15. Muffins? lemon

16. Wish list item? camera

17. Where did you grow up? Indiana

18. Last thing you did? lunch

19. What are you wearing? jeans

20. Your TV? Off

21. Your pets? Cute

22. Friends? wonderful

23. Your life? blessed

24. Your mood? frustrated

25. Missing someone? Mom

26. Vehicle? MDX

27. Something you’re not wearing? jewelry

28. Your favorite store? Scrapbook

29. Your favorite color? pink

30. When was the last time you laughed? yesterday

31. Last time you cried? recently

32. Your best friend? Abbie

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

34. One person who emails me regularly? Judy

I will give this award to:

1. Char

2. Shirley

3. Kyla

4. Lee

5. Tracy

6. Stacey

TGIF! Have a good one!

8 Things: Meals I would love to have again!

2009-10-01T09:05:00.003-05:00

It is no secret that I love food. I really enjoy trying new flavor combinations and foods from all different cultures and areas. I have eaten so many wonderful, yummy things over the years but today I am going to list 8 meals that I would love to eat again.

1.) Fresh Salmon from Vancouver, Canada. I enjoyed this meal in 1990 at a fairly fancy restaurant in Canada. I was attending a conference for work in Seattle, WA and 5 coworkers and I made the trip over the border and enjoyed a fabulous evening. The Salmon was out of this world and like nothing I have had since.

2.) Morning After Pancakes from Texas. In 1996, Don and I took a trip to San Antonio, TX. While there we drove up into the hills and stopped at a little out of the way bakery for breakfast. I ordered their speciality "Morning After Pancakes" Oh my! Apparently they crumble up the danish from the day before into the battery and let me tell you it was fantastic - with or without syrup. YUM!

3.) Garlic Soup & Warm Crusty Bread from Austria. While driving through the mountains in 1999 we stopped in a little village and had lunch at a pub type restaurant. We sat at a charming little table that had a magnificent view while we enjoyed the best soup I have ever had. A perfect blend of flavors then add to that warm crusty bread - close to heaven I tell you!

4.) Potato Pierogi from St. Michael's church in Merrillville, Indiana. Made from scratch by the older polish church ladies, served on paper plates, and dripping with butter in the church basement surrounded by families young and old. So melt in your mouth, stick to your ribs, warm your soul good.

5.) Scallops from Narragansett, Rhode Island. While vacationing we had dinner at a little dive that was located right where the fishing boats come in. Newspaper covered tables, food served in red baskets, prices dirt cheap, seafood right from the boat. We sampled lots of yummy seafood that night including lobster, crab and various fish - all very good - but the scallops - oh the scallops. So smooth and buttery- not tough or chewy at all and the perfect flavor.

6.) Garlic Chicken & Thai Beef Salad - Thai Spice in Omaha, Nebraska. Omaha would be the last place I would expect to find good Thai food but it is there! We ordered take out from Thai Spice every other Friday and they knew us and knew our tastes (we like it HOT!) and it was fantastic. I miss it - a lot. Let's just say my mouth is actually watering as I write this. Sad, I know.

7.) Fire Roasted Vegetables & Garlic - Bistro 110 Chicago, Illinois. Although there are many tempting things on the menu, no matter how many times I go I have to order the Roasted Vegetables. Love the taste and the beautiful colors of the food. The garlic? Oh just think about it...baked until it is soft and buttery served whole by the head with warm bread and butter. You stink for days but it is well worth it.

8.) Greek Olives and Stew at the Flame in Santorini, Greece. Another little place Don and I discovered on our travels - a hike to get there but oh so worth it. The view of the Aegean Sea was spectacular and the food was glorious. A whole bowl of Greek olives and a stew that I can't even name - filled with all sorts of veggies and lots of potatoes with some kind of tomato base. So stinkin' good.

Not even hungry right now but boy do I want to eat!

Join in and share your 8 things today here.

Altered Canvas

2009-09-29T08:08:00.006-05:00

Last Sunday I spent 3 hours getting messy. I have had this blank white canvas (16 x 20) staring at me for about 4 months now and as crazy as it sounds I was afraid to start. What was I waiting for? Enough was enough! So I spread out some newspaper, got out my paints, glimmer mist, mod podge and ink and went to work on my canvas. Once I started that was all it took - I felt so relaxed while I was working and I love the finish product! Not sure where I will hang it but it is not white anymore...

A few close ups to see some details:

Try something new this week!

Best Shot Monday - 9/28/09

2009-09-28T18:45:00.002-05:00

This would probably not be considered a "best shot" by some but to me it says fair and what is better then that? :)

Friday Fill-ins 9/25/09

2009-09-25T07:38:00.003-05:00

Taken at the Botanical Gardens 9/09

Friday Fill-ins

1. One week ago I was doing about the same thing I am now.

2. I loved to eat peas for breakfast when I was young.

3. Mama told me not to sing at the dinner table.

4. ---- you and me. Hmmm - usually something just pops in my head when I see the prompt but not so for this one. So instead of forcing something I'll just leave it blank :)

5. Take your time when spending time with your kids - really be there.

6. These allergies will pass!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to watching a movie with the family, tomorrow my plans include Abbie's soccer game and a bit of furniture shopping and Sunday, I want to go to the state fair!

Happy Friday!

8 Things: About Jr. High School

2009-09-24T08:29:00.004-05:00

Having two children in middle school has me reminiscing about what it was like when I was in middle school (we called it jr. high and went for grades 7,8 and 9) I honestly *loved* the three years I spent at Peirce Jr. High School in Merrillville, Indiana. It was much more about being social for me then about academics! So today for my 8 things, I have made a list of the things I look back fondly on about jr. high.

1.) Friends - I was all about my friends at this age. I loved going to school because it meant I got to be with my friends all day long and after school I spent all night long talking on the phone with them. Weekends? More time to spend with friends. I had a great "group" of friends and they were my whole world.

2.) Boys - yep - we talked about them, dreamed about them, flirted with them, sighed over them, cried over them, and laughed about them.

3.) Pom-poms - I loved belonging to a group, going to practices (again with my friends), and best of all going to football games - so. much. fun.

4.) Lunch - that strange combination of social hour and meal time. We ate the weirdest things - tater tots dipped in butter being a favorite of our table. I spent the time gossiping and making plans for the weekend - oh and the food fights - yes they occurred like in the movies - someone would turn the lights off and madness would ensue until a teacher got to the lights. The girls and I would usually hit the deck under the tables while the boys let loose with the food.

5.) Age - this was a great age to be - old enough to have some independence but young enough to not have many responsibilities.

6.) Belonging - it was a time of great security for me. I belonged. I knew my place in the social network and I had a clear definition of who I was. There was something very comforting about that.

7.) Communication - notes, notes, notes. Because we had no computers or cell phones then we actually wrote each other hand written notes and passed them in between classes. It was not uncommon to be handed several notes by different friends between classes. Then I would write back during the next class and so on. Amazing how much writing we did!

8.)Symbols - long before the LOL's of today my friends and I had all kinds of symbols and written ways to convey a message to each other. A few: BBB = blackberry brandy (which we tried once and thought we were cool so we wrote it on out notes) CTB = Cindy the Bitch (a girl I didn't like in school - we each had one) CTF = Craig the fox (one boy I had a crush on) etc...

Go here to join in on "8 things"!

Plantation Layout

2009-09-23T08:44:00.003-05:00

Sharing another layout I did for the last Sketchapalooza Class. My Mom, Dad and I took a tour of this plantation that has been in the same family for 14 generations - amazing! The current owner still live there on the top floor! I am loving all the history to be found in Virginia!!

Best Shot Monday - 9/21/09

2009-09-21T08:06:00.002-05:00

Another flower this week. The roses are so beautiful this time of year!

Friday Fill-ins 9/18/09

2009-09-18T09:06:00.005-05:00

Taken at the botanical gardens last weekend.

Friday Fill-ins
1. My car still has that "new car smell."
2. My Mom's birthday is coming up next. (and I have no idea what to get her!)
3. Lately, things seem a little "off" guess I am just not settled into the fall routine yet.
4. My scraproom is one of my favorite 'hiding' places.
5. What happened to the summer?
6. Changing your attitude is not impossible!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to a lazy evening with the family, tomorrow my plans include watching Abbie play soccer and shopping for new skates for Jacob and Sunday, I want to sleep in and then play!

Want to join in? Check it out here.

8 Things: Lee Currie

2009-09-17T09:38:00.007-05:00

Ok - here I am, joining in on something Lee found here. I am a list maker - plain and simple - if it is not on the list it doesn't get done. So this fits right in with my love of lists :)

Since Lee has not only introduced me to this idea but so many others I thought it would be fun to have Lee featured in my very first 8 things post.

So here you go - in no particular order - 8 things I love about Lee:

1.) She writes in an interesting and entertaining way that I love.
2.) She is an awesome photographer - She uses interesting angles and perspectives.
3.) She is a fantastic Mom. Love her "mama-tude" and the way she parents her children.
4.) Commonality - I love that the more I get to know her the more I find in common with her.
5.) She is generous - with her time, her emotions, her creativity, her resources and her home.
6.) She is strong in what she believes - not a wishy-washy, non committal bone in her body.
7.) She is real - she is not perfect and doesn't pretend to be.
8.) She is always seeking, learning, and thinking about who she is and what is next.

Thanks for your friendship Lee! It makes my world a nicer place :)

Can it really be fall?

2009-09-16T14:35:00.003-05:00

Wanted to share another layout I did for Feeling Scrappy's last sketch class. Seems like just yesterday we were celebrating the last day of school and the start of summer vacation and here we are in our second week of school for the Fall. Time keeps marching on even when we would like to slow it down a bit!

Best Shot Monday - 9/14/09

2009-09-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

I have been getting lucky with butterflies lately. I like the orange wings contrasted by the green leaves in this shot. I took this over the weekend at the botanical gardens here in Richmond.

9-11-01

2009-09-11T08:14:00.000-05:00

I will not forget.

Layout - Maymont

2009-09-10T08:24:00.002-05:00

This layout was based on a sketch by Stacey Curry and I made it as a sample for the last Sketchapalooza class at Feeling Scrappy. We have been taking lots of day and weekend trips since moving to Virginia last December - so much fun to explore our new area!

Win a Free Class!

2009-09-08T18:07:00.002-05:00

We are giving away a free Simplify the Season class at Feeling Scrappy! Just leave a comment there to be entered - simple as that! :) Hurry you only have until Wednesday night - we will draw a random winner on Thursday!

Best Shot Monday - 9/7/09

2009-09-07T21:37:00.003-05:00

This is my best shot this week because it reflects a best time! We had a perfect day at the ball park in Baltimore on Saturday! More photos to share from our trip tomorrow and some fun Feeling Scrappy news to share!

Ella Publishing is having a party!

2009-09-07T08:18:00.003-05:00

Check it out! Ella is live and having a party! Be sure to check out their e-zine which will be published tomorrow and let me know if you can spot your favorite Feeling Scrappy girl in the magazine :)

I'll be back later today with my Best Shot Monday and an update about our trip!

Friday Fill-ins 9/4/09

2009-09-04T11:00:00.001-05:00

Sam and Abbie with Zoe (the kids where calling her a river rat)

She can swim well but would rather be on the rocks sun bathing! Aug 09

Friday Fill-ins :)

1. I feel bad taking Zoe to be boarded - I know she is fine but I still feel sad leaving her there.

2. Traveling is always fun.

3. Right now, I can hear these things: county music playing softly from Abbie's room, a lawn mower outside, a video game and Don talking on the phone.

4. Summer is almost over and I'm glad we packed in a lot of fun activities!

5. The last time I scrapbooked with friends was July - I miss having friends to scrap with!

6. Looking forward to a family trip this Labor day weekend.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to arriving in Baltimore Maryland and checking out the harbor a bit, tomorrow my plans include taking in more of the city and a Baltimore Orioles baseball game and Sunday, I want to go to the Baltimore Aquarium!

Hope you all have a great weekend! Oh and Happy, Happy Birthday to my friend Lee!!

Happy Birthday Sam!

2009-09-03T21:28:00.004-05:00

We have been celebrating Sam's 12th birthday! First was mini-golf and go-karts, then dinner at the melting pot, pineapple upside down cake (by request) and presents.

In honor of my middle son, I thought I would share 15 things about Sam today...

*He loves to sing and listens to a very wide variety of music.
*He likes to to collect things - currently it is old gameboy color games.
*He is full of drama - both good and bad.
*He likes the colors red and black.
*He keeps his room neat.
*He has a natural swagger when he walks.
*He has curly hair that when he decides to take time with it will make the girls swoon.
*He still likes pokemon and legos but doesn't always like to admit it.
*He hates to be rubbed but likes to be hugged.
*He is a movie buff (and especially loves old ones).
*He is a middle child and has lots of the characteristics that goes along with that.
*He needs to be entertained and always likes to be with someone.
*He is good eater - will try anything and is not picky at all.
*He is 12 and starts middle school (6th grade) on September 8th.
*He is loved.

Happy Birthday Sam!

Best Shot Monday - 8/31/09

2009-08-31T09:51:00.003-05:00

I took this photo while feeding the giraffe at the zoo this past week. I love that big brown eye and those long lashes! I think she looks sort of shy but believe me - she wasn't! :)

So sweet! (layout)

2009-08-29T13:40:00.002-05:00

My kids are enjoying yet another "ice cream man ice cream" as I type this so I thought it would be fun to share this layout I made during Feeling Scrappy's last Sketchapalooza class - it is based on a sketch by Stacey Lokovic.

Friday Fill-ins 8/28/09

2009-08-28T08:00:00.005-05:00

The prairie dog enjoying a feast :) 8/09

Friday again? The weeks fly by! Here is my weekly Friday fill-in, if you want to play along just visit here for the prompts each week.

1. He was a distracted, sweet boy and he is a distracted, sweet teenager (speaking of Jacob - my oldest child).
2. Enjoying the last few days of summer before the kids head back to school is what I look forward to most this time of year.
3. My best friend is much better then a counselor!
4. I hate getting up early, to be honest with you.
5. Appearances can be dead wrong.
6. The last person I gave a hug to was my daughter, Abbie.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to seeing Don (he has been gone all week), tomorrow my plans include...hmmm...not sure yet - but it will involve playing with the family and Sunday, I want to relax and scrapbook a bit!

It is that time again...

2009-08-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

I made this page about the spring soccer season based on a sketch by Tracy Kosofsky from the Sketchapalooza 4 class at Feeling Scrappy.

The fall soccer season has started and Abbie is raring to go. She really loves the game. It is such a pleasure to be a part of something that your child loves so much. Go Strikers!

The Zoo

2009-08-26T18:23:00.007-05:00

Today I took Jacob and Abbie to the zoo here in Richmond (Sam didn't go due to his behavior but that is another story...) The zoo here is fairly small and privately owned therefore very different from our Omaha zoo.

I was couldn't believe how active the animals were today! I was thinking with it being in the 90s the animals would all be lazing around but not so they were very active and entertaining. We had a great time - although I have to say that I never met a zoo I didn't like. Something about strolling along at your own pace with your family watching the antics of animals makes me so happy!

Here are a few photos from our day :)

Abbie feeding the birds:
Jacob with his bird:

The coolest thing was feeding the giraffe:

Best Shot Monday - 8/24/09

2009-08-24T14:17:00.002-05:00

I took this photo during a five mile hike my husband and I took through the woods this past weekend in one of Virginia's many beautiful state parks. I really liked the way this little bridge looked along the trail.

Friday Fill-ins 8/21/09

2009-08-21T09:10:00.005-05:00

Headed to the woods later today :) Photo 8/09

1. I remember, I remember when my babies were born and I couldn't picture them any bigger then they were then. Little did I know how fast they grow!
2. Dear Stacey, I want you to know I am thinking of you today and wishing you a smooth delivery.
3. Is that my dog !!??? (She got a *really* short haircut and looks like a shorn sheep!)
4. I'm trying to resist the temptation of sweets.
5. I'm saving a layout just for you! (I have several to share next week)
6. If I made a birthday list a new camera would definitely be on it!!!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to spending our first night away for the weekend, tomorrow my plans include hiking, swimming and lots of outdoor activities with the family and Sunday, I want to spend the day on more of the same!

See you all on Monday!

Hug your babies...

2009-08-18T18:38:00.002-05:00

they grow up so fast! Here is a layout I did for Sketchapalooza 4 at Feeling Scrappy. (based on a sketch by me) I love this layout - mostly because I love this picture of my son Jacob when he was little - he is now 14. My sweet little guy is still sweet but not so little anymore...

Best Shot Monday - 8/17/09

2009-08-17T07:56:00.002-05:00

Not a lot to choose from this past week as I didn't take a lot of photos but looking through, I am pretty happy with this one :) Flower or weed? I'm not sure but pretty just the same.

Hoping for a great Monday -for me and all of you! :)

Friday Fills and a Layout

2009-08-14T15:27:00.006-05:00

Another layout from Feeling Scrappy's Sketchapalooza class :)

Friday fill-ins...here we go!

1. When will I actually enjoy working out and not have to make myself go?
2. Firefly Beach by Luann Rice was the last good book I read.
3. Everything has its beauty but no buts - everything has its beauty if you really look.
4. Homemade pizza is what I'm having for dinner.
5. I'd like your smile. Everyone looks better when they wear one :)
6. The beach at sunset is where I want to be right now.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to a relaxing night with the family, tomorrow my plans include a few things around the house and Sunday, I want to be creative!

Layouts :)

2009-08-13T15:47:00.006-05:00

I thought I would share a few layouts I made from our Spring Break trip to my Mom and Dad's in Florida last April. I made these as samples for a class we just finished up at Feeling Scrappy :)

Jump! (Sketch by Stacey Curry) I had so much fun creating this digital photo block with PS Elements. I loved that I could fit so many pictures in a fun way.
Search. (A sketch by me) I captured this photo of my oldest son Jacob poolside while he was watching the lizards. The way he sits is "so Jacob" I just had to record it.

Downtown Disney (another sketch by Stacey Curry) Another chance to play with PSE to make the photo block. I have a hard time working with primary colors so not my fav but it is what it is :)

Bok Tower. (Sketch by Tracy Kosofsky) Such a beautiful place. We had a wonderful day there together! Plus I was happy to use up some *really* old paper from my stash!

Hope you have a chance to do something creative soon - it really is good for the soul!

New Feeling Scrappy Class!

2009-08-11T17:38:00.002-05:00

Simplify the Season!
September 14 to October 12, 2009

This class is designed to help you take some of the hustle out of your holidays. We will decrease your stress and leave you more time to enjoy the little things by completing items from your holiday to-do list now. During this four-week course you will be provided with sketches and samples to help you complete all of your holiday cards, tools to keep you organized and help you pre-plan plus you will make at least 4 handmade gifts. As always, you can expect loads of samples and tips from our design team to inspire and motivate you! (The talented Lee Currie will be our guest designer for this class!)

During this course you can expect:

A full four weeks of class running from Sept 14th until Oct 12th
Detailed card sketches made exclusively for you by our design team
At least 7 different card sketches with tips on “mass” production
4 gift projects with detailed step by step instructions
Challenges with prizes each week of class
Tips and tid-bits to keep your creative juices flowing
Tools to help you organize your holidays
Fabulous creative examples for each project and card sketch by our talented design team
A private class forum with lots of support and friendly conversation
Self paced class - do as much or as little as you would like
A PDF file including all the sketches from class for you to keep for future reference
Graduation crop with projects, challenges, games and prizes
Plus a few surprises :)

Cost for this four-week course is $25.00.

Sound interesting? You can sign up here:

http://feelingscrappyclasses.blogspot.com/search/label/Classes

Best Shot Monday - 8/10/09

2009-08-10T11:05:00.002-05:00

I caught this butterfly in action while on our hike in the Shenandoah mountains on Saturday. One of many beautiful sights along the way!

Friday Fill-ins 8/7/09

2009-08-07T13:51:00.005-05:00

One lazy pup! Aug 2009

Time for Friday Fill-ins :)

1. Corn on the cob is my favorite summertime food.
2. My favorite John Hughes movies is Breakfast Club.
3. A baby's soft cheek is something I love to touch.
4. The full moon is just beautiful.
5. Heading to the pool with the kids right now.
6. When daylight fades I love to be sitting out on the patio talking with Don.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to grilling out for dinner then a family movie, tomorrow my plans include hiking in the mountains and a picnic lunch and Sunday, I want to scrapbook and do a few projects around the house!

Hope you all have a fantastic weekend!

10 things I am Thankful for Tonight

2009-08-05T22:07:00.005-05:00

My sister, Kristin, and I - July 3, 2009

My sister - celebrating her on her birthday and hoping she moves to VA!
My bed - I get to sleep in later then 6:15 tomorrow.
Scrapbooking - I have been scrapping a bit everyday and loving it.
Books- Jacob, Abbie and I had so much fun at the library together today.
Facebook - love the quick catch up with friends and the games too.
Asian food - yummy!
Toothpaste - ok a little weird but my teeth feel so nice and clean right now.
Trees - so happy I have some in my backyard again.
Caller ID - no more sales calls, thank you very much.
My MDX - really happy with my new "ride"

:o),

Best Shot Monday (8/3/09)

2009-08-03T06:59:00.003-05:00

I don't really have a "best shot" this week. I didn't take many photos of things except layouts and a few odds and ends - so a photo of my scruffy pup that needs a haircut is what you get :) When I am scrapping she sits right under my desk and when I look down at her she always thumps her tail at me. Such a sweetie.

Summer is flying by!

2009-07-31T08:18:00.007-05:00

Abbie and her cousin Anna - fresh from the pool July 2009

Sam and Jacob with cousins Bryce and Sierra. July 2009

I can't believe another Friday is here. The summer is flying by in a happy blur as it always does...and I feel a little sad when I see it slipping by but I will enjoy it while it is here and know that fall in Virginia will be a whole new experience to savor!

So time for another Friday Fill-ins :)

And...here we go!

1. It's time for me to buckle down on my diet - I have gotten a little off track this summer.

2. Richmond, Virginia; it's not a bad place for summer - most people think it is hot but it is no hotter then it was in Omaha over the summer.

3. I must be lazy - no matter how much I want to like exercise I just don't. Ugh!

4. The love of my family is the best thing I have ever known.

5. My dog Zoe is simply the sweetest dog around!

6. The last time I laughed really loudly was at Summerfest with Judy and Todd.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to seeing Don after his week away, tomorrow my plans include family time - either running around or at the pool and Sunday, I want to do some vacation planning and scrapbook if I can squeeze it in plus a nice family dinner at home!

Hope you have a fun weekend on tap!

My Sweet Baker

2009-07-29T11:12:00.005-05:00

When we went to the library earlier this week Abbie got lots of book - including several cookbooks - namely cookie cook books. I love to cook and Abbie has spent lots of time in the kitchen with me learning to cook. I am not much of a baker - I don't like to be precise in my cooking and with baking you need to follow the recipe more closely then I like. Which brings me to Abbie - you see she is a major sweets girl. She love anything sweet but especially chocolate! So naturally she would want to make sweet treats.

She asked if she could make cookies all by herself from this cookbook she got. Sure, why not?! I have to say - they turned out perfect and were wonderful! I am sure she is planning her next treat as I write :) I am so proud that she is already wanting to cook and doing such a great job.

I already made a scrapbook page about this yesterday but it is for the Sketchapalooza class going on right now. I will share it with you when class is over :)

Hope you are enjoying this summer day!

Best Shot Monday - 7/27/09

2009-07-27T16:16:00.003-05:00

I took this of the James River which is just a few miles from our house :)

Today we went to the Library here for the first time since we moved in and boy is it a nice one! Abbie and I could have stayed all day but Sam was getting bored so we left with new library cards and 12 books in hand. Looking forward to heading back again soon!

Friday Fill-ins

2009-07-24T15:52:00.003-05:00

Jacob and Zoe on our way to Indiana :) July 2009

Friday Fill ins...
1. Being seen without make-up is not the end of the world. (In high school - I would have died if I had to go out without it on! LOL)
2. Sitting here, listening to the sound of rain falling, I feel cozy in the house - perfect for reading a good book! (It is not raining today -sunny and 88 degrees but I can imagine it)
3. Food tastes so good! (Seriously - I love most food - unfortunately for my waistline!)
4. Sometimes, putting others first is the best feeling in the world.
5. Nature is breathtaking, really.
6. Well, maybe there is such a thing as too much scrapbook paper. LOL!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to dinner and maybe a movie with Don, tomorrow my plans include a bit of moving things around then furniture shopping and Sunday, I want to relax and scrapbook!

A list to catch up :)

2009-07-23T11:00:00.003-05:00

I am finally back home and feeling a little more caught up on things :) Thought I would share a brief recap of some of the things we did on our trip...

Left home June 26th for a 3 weeks trip.
Put 2200 miles on our new car.
Drove through 9 states.
Spent a fabulous weekend catching up with our friends the Sipich's.
Enjoyed music, beer, food and general fun at Summerfest in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Spent time at both of Don's brother's houses - letting the kids play and enjoying some time together.
Put my 10 year old daughter on a plane to Omaha, NE all by herself. (so proud!)
Don flew home to Virginia
Spent a fun evening catching up with my sister and family at Hidden Lake's festival in Merrillville, Indiana.
Abbie spent a week at Camp Kitaki in Lincoln NE - her 3rd time. She LOVES it!
Went to Connie and Dave's house on the Lake for the 4th and got rained on.
Ate at our favorite local joints in Indiana.
Went to the casino boats and only lost $4.00 (that is a win in my book!)
Did lots of shopping and got some great new shirts for my birthday.
Jacob and Sam did a ton of fishing at my Mom's.
We went to several movies.
We toured the out Sheriffs house and jail in Crown Point, Indiana where Dillinger escaped from jail. Very interesting!
Went to a classic car show that had my Dad and Jacob drooling!
Zoe (our dog) is the best traveler of the bunch :)
Went to dinner with a friend I have know since I was born and it was like we were never apart - so nice!
Had an awesome scrapbook weekend with friends in Chicago! So much fun getting creative and catching up with each other!
Drove back to Virginia with my Mom, the kids and the dog (lets just say the girl were all well behaved - me, my mom, Abbie and Zoe and the boys - Jacob and Sam - not so much.
Spent a few days doing things like hanging pictures and shopping for rugs.
Took my mom to Belle Island - one of our favorite Richmond parks
Spent the last week since she left catching up on laundry and things around the house.
Whew!

A big thanks to my Mom and Dad and to Don's Mom for putting us up and putting up with us :)

Best Shot Monday - 7/20/09

2009-07-20T20:43:00.002-05:00

Flowers again :) This time taken in my mother-in-laws front yard in NW Indiana at mid-day. Not the best lighting but the flowers themselves are beautiful. I hope to get back to my long neglected blog this week with an update about our looonnnggg trip to the midwest.

Sketch Class starting Monday!

2009-07-09T12:54:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone! Just checking in from Indiana...I will be heading home next week and hope to get back to regular posting but I wanted to pop in real quick to let you know Feeling Scrappy's next skechapalooza class is getting ready to start! Here are the class details as posted on the blog:

We have some exciting news for our next Sketchapalooza class which starts July 13th! Our guest designer for the class is Tracy Kosofsky and she has agreed to make digital templates for each and everyone of our new sketches! Great news for digital scrappers and those that are just starting to dabble in digital!

Here is what you can expect during the Sketchapalooza Class:

A full FOUR WEEKS of class running from July 13th to August 10th
Detailed sketches made exclusively for you by our design team
A full 20 sketches (5 per week!)
New this class! Digital templates for each sketch
Challenges with prizes each week
Several double page spread sketches and more pictures per sketch
Plus tips and tid-bits to keep your creative juices flowing
Fabulous creative examples for each sketch by our talented design team
Paper and digital examples layouts for each sketch
A private class forum with lots of support and friendly conversation
Self paced class - do as much or as little as you would like
A PDF file including all the sketches from class for you to keep for future reference
Graduation crop with challenges, games and prizes
Plus a few surprises :)

The cost for this class month long class is only $25.00. You can sign up by visiting the Feeling Scrappy blog: http://feelingscrappyclasses.blogspot.com/search/label/Classes

Best Shot Monday (6/22)

2009-06-23T15:37:00.002-05:00

This week I like this fun shot of a Krispy Kreme Donut. Late posting again but hey - I was busy talking about my baby :)

44 and 14 Years ago today...

2009-06-22T07:52:00.003-05:00

Fourteen years ago today, my son Jacob was born. It was a bright, beautiful sunny day just like today. Jacob was a scheduled birth and without knowing it was my birthday, my doctor scheduled me to be induced on my 30th birthday.

The thing is - birthdays were always a big deal for me. I loved my birthday! I would start on June 1st with "its my birthday month!" then continue on - usually stretching the celebration over a whole weekend. That all changed 14 years ago when I received the ultimate gift - my son.
When they handed him to me - it was beyond love that I felt - I was, for the first time in my life, completely filled with true joy. I was part of a miracle that day. My life was already a full and happy one but he push it to over flowing - he filled every empty spot in me and gave my life a new purpose - I became a mother.

My family still celebrates my birthday with gifts and things to make me feel special - but 14 years ago I stopped "needing" that - I was shown that it is about SO much more!

First thing this morning I got a kiss and heard the words "Happy Birthday, Mama. I love you."

I love you too my special birthday gift!

Jacob Jones 14 year old today 6/09

Car shopping

2009-06-19T11:53:00.003-05:00

I absolutely hate car shopping. We leased a car for the first and last time 2 years ago and now that the lease is about up - I was forced to do the dreaded job. You would think they could make it a more pleasant experience considering how much you are spending - but no - same old "I have to talk to my manager: - How about I just talk to your manager since you do not have the power to actually sell me a car? Grrrrr....

Anyhow - we have it narrowed down to an Acura or a Volvo. I am feeling lots of guilt about not buying from an American company especially with the state of our auto industry but it is exactly that state that has made us choose not to buy from them. I am concerned about dealership closing and where I will have to go for service or how my warranty will be handled.

Anyhow - can't wait for this to be over with and hopefully by this weekend I will be driving a new car.

Friday Fill-ins

1. All children alarm their parents, if only because you are forever expecting someone to get hurt.

2. Show me a good loser and I will show you an easy-going person.

3. Car shopping is like eating an entire box of chocolate liqueurs at one time. YUCK!

4. Too bad that all the people who know how to run the country are busy running their own households and businesses.

5. I have yet to hear a man ask for advice on how to combine a kids activity and an adult activity.

6. It is impossible to think of any good meal, no matter how plain or elegant, without Family or Friends in it.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to take out, tomorrow my plans include finishing up the car buying and Sunday, I want to celebrate Father's Day and the birthdays (mine and Jacob's are on Monday!)

Sleeping in - way in!

2009-06-16T08:16:00.003-05:00

9:15 and all three kids are still sleeping...I need to go wake them up to start the day but I am enjoying the quiet! Problem is they won't want to go to bed until late since they are getting up so late - and the summertime cycle begins in this house...

Best Shot Monday (6/15/09)

2009-06-15T11:47:00.003-05:00

Our freshly filled bird feeder.

Since moving to Virginia, Jacob has really gotten into bird watching. He can tell you in an instant the kind of bird you are looking at - what kind of seed they like - how they sound and where they live. I am amazed at his knowledge base! His interest has gotten the whole family to pay more attention and we have really been enjoying watching all the birds in the backyard while we sit at the breakfast table every morning.

Happy Monday!

Layouts

2009-06-13T07:56:00.000-05:00

Today, I thought I would share a few scrapbook pages. This first one I made during a class I took at Jessica Sprague in which I learned some things about my new Photoshop Elements program. I made this photo block. Very fun! I think I will enjoy combining some digital elements with my traditional scrapbooking! :)

The next one is based on a sketch by Amy Bell:

Have a great weekend!

Last Day of School

2009-06-12T07:49:00.003-05:00

Today is the last day of school for the year. There is always a charge of excitement in the air leading up to this day and I am thrilled for the kids. I remember the joy of that last bell ringing and racing out the door with my friends feeling the freedom of summer and knowing I had all the time in the world to just be. Ah, sweet summertime! (I hope I will have a few photos to share tomorrow.)

Friday Fill-ins:
1. I grew up thinking I had all the time in the world.
2. Google Reader was the last website I was at before coming here.
3. Why don't you go to bed? (Said to myself every night lately - I just can't seem to get to bed at a decent hour!)
4. Scrapbooking helps me relax.
5. Thanks for the inspiration. There are so many genuine and talent people who inspire me to be a better person!
6. Long finger nails on men is very off-putting. (Ewwww)
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to celebrating the last day of school with the kids, tomorrow my plans include a day of play with the family - maybe a little day trip and Sunday, I want to sleep in then do something creative!

Have a fun Friday!

2 down 1 to go

2009-06-11T07:47:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, Sam graduated from elementary school and will be moving on to middle school for 6th grade next year. He is thrilled to be done and is looking forward to summer. (they officially get out at 11:00 on Friday) I can't believe I only have one left in elementary school! People are not lying when they tell you their childhood will fly by!

The ceremony was a bit too long and everyone was antsy by the end but they had a nice luncheon afterwards for all the 5th graders and parents. I didn't get any usable photos during the ceremony - the lighting and seating were terrible but here are a few from the luncheon.

Sam and I:
Sam and his friend David:

Best Shot Monday (A day late)

2009-06-09T09:50:00.003-05:00

My friend Lee (you have to put her blog on your reader - her posts always inspire me!) posted a link to Tracey Clark's site. She hosts a "My Best Shot Monday" challenge. Basically she encourages you to post your best photo from the previous week. I immediately wanted to play along. Many weeks I am sure I will not have a "quality" photo but I will have a nice record of things I have enjoyed so here I go - a day late but what else is new?!

This is one of my favorite photos from my trip to Cape Cod. I love the water and the color of the plant. I also love that among all the beauty that Cape Cod offers I was able to focus on something small that might be found in any yard. Photography helps me to see the world around me in glorious detail!

Hope you will decide to play along too - would love to see your photos!

Happy Mail

2009-06-08T07:59:00.002-05:00

For as long as I can remember, I have loved to check the mail. Even before I actually got mail - I was always excited to walk down to the end of the drive and open the mailbox to have a look at what was inside. I remember coming home from school and looking at the box before I would walk up to the house - but I would wait until I walked up to the house and dropped off my books then I would walk back down to the mailbox to do the daily check. Loved that part of my day!

To this day, I still love to check the mail - you never know what you are going to have waiting for you! Never a day goes by (except Sunday) when there is not something waiting in the mail box. Sure - many days it is just junk or worse yet bills but other days it will hold magazines or catalogs that I enjoy looking through. But what really keeps me checking with excitement each day is possibility! You may just open the box and find a letter, card or package waiting for you. Happy mail = happy day!!

Just recently, I got a fun little goodie from my friend Lee for participating in a give away she hosted on her blog. (Thanks Lee!!) Have a look at this little piece of fun that was waiting in the mail box:

Making today a good day,

Friday Fill-ins :)

2009-06-05T09:42:00.004-05:00

A busy bee on Cape Cod

Friday Fill-ins (want to play along? Check it out here.)

And...here we go!
1. I am loving my new home. I feel like I am really settling in!
2. My favorite thing for dinner lately has been food on the grill.
3. So glad that my dog isn't one that does much bark! bark! bark!
4. A nice long walk is always refreshing - I really need to do it more often!
5. Love to share some good news.
6. When all is said and done, I am happy with my life.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to settling in with the family - maybe some TV, tomorrow my plans include lots of sports - both soccer and baseball and Sunday, I want to go new car shopping and decide what we are going to buy!

Happy Friday!

Headed for the Championship Game!

2009-06-04T21:52:00.003-05:00

What a game tonight! I have to admit that I sometimes find baseball boring...the first two hours can actually be enjoyable but by the third hour I am usually done and am just waiting for it to be over. Tonight was different - there was an energy in the air right up to the end. Tonight Sam's team, the Mariners, played a great game and pulled it out 3 to 2 putting them into the Championship game this coming Saturday! The boys were so excited!! Sam played well and made a beautiful catch at second base so he was thrilled.

More about Cape Cod

2009-06-02T15:50:00.012-05:00

As promised yesterday, I wanted to share a few more pictures from my weekend in Cape Cod. This first one is a group shot of us having lunch in an English Pub (fish and chips - yum!) I had such a great time with these ladies - each one unique, each one bringing a fresh perspective to the table yet we all blended amazingly well together. That must be one of Lee's many gifts - to see women that would compliment each other and to pull us all together. (Thanks Lee!)

One of the fun things we did was to go on photography field trips. Just out and about to photograph things we thought were beautiful in their own way. That is another great thing about being with women who have similar interests - they don't mind when you stop to photograph something that others might think is strange and they don't think you are silly when you get on the ground to do it. Here are a few of the non-beach photos I took.

An all American ice cream shop:

A tree trunk I found interesting:

Church steeple (screamed New England to me):

A red, white and blue festooned gazebo:

A swing in Lee's front yard:

A garden plant after the rain (I think these are my favorite pictures - love the green and the water):

Spring flowers:

Thanks for looking and letting me share :)

Cape Cod

2009-06-01T21:52:00.009-05:00

Back home in Virginia today after a wonderful weekend in Cape Cod, MA. The weekend was spent with a group of fun, interesting, kind and talented women and it was refreshing to say the least. We shopped, talked, ate, laughed, crafted, walked the beach, play with our cameras and generally enjoyed each others company. I had a great time! I have lots of photos but need to get premission to share some so for now - here are a few of my favorites from the beach:

More to share tomorrow :)

Blue Skies Ahead

2009-05-28T11:07:00.002-05:00

I am headed to the airport for a much needed weekend trip away with girlfriends! I am so excited to spend an entire weekend in the company of talented women I respect and find delightful. Adding to my delight is that I am headed to a place that I haven't had the chance to visit yet - Cape Cod.

I will be back on Monday with pictures and stories to share. Hope you all have a great weekend!

Signs of Summer

2009-05-27T15:49:00.003-05:00

They heard the music before they saw the truck and came running to me jumping up and down and screaming "Mom, its the ice cream truck!" "Can we?" "Hurry! Before he leaves!" After a mad dash for money in my purse, they ran out the door just in time to catch the truck. (I did another mad dash of my own for the camera and was reward with a photo of their first ice cream truck treat of the summer.) Love these little moments of childhood JOY! I know that ice cream tasted much better then the treats we have in the freezer because it came straight from the man himself.

Sam and Abbie picking out their treats (I gave them a $5 because I was in a hurry and of course they each managed to pick a treat that was exactly $2.50):
Enjoying the prized ice cream truck ice cream on our front porch:

Enjoy the little things while you can!

Feels like Monday

2009-05-26T10:16:00.010-05:00

But it is Tuesday. Hope you all had a great Memorial Day weekend. We didn't have any plans and decided to pack a few things and jump in the car for an impromptu trip. We asked the kids "beach or mountains?" and the mountains won out. We headed east and then south down the Blue Ridge Parkway - it was so beautiful:

At one of the pull offs we discovered a tree we had never seen before a Poplar Tulip tree. Huge trees in full bloom. Really lovely. Here is a shot of one of the blooms:Our first day we spent driving (a little further then we wanted to because we got lost on some back roads - which made us all a little crabby but after a nice Mexican meal we got settled into a hotel and we all felt better.) The second day we spent at Natural Bridge. This is an area that Thomas Jefferson purchased and built a hunting lodge because he thought it was so beautiful. Here is a photo of the bridge:

We walked the "nature" trail which ran along side a pretty creek and at the end of about a mile we saw this small water fall:

Abbie and Sam at the waterfall:

Another tree that I found interesting along the way:

Don and the kids taking a rest along the trail:

After the trail we went through the cave/cavern system uder the area. Very interesting! Sunday night, we stayed in an old historic hotel and had dinner at a wonderful little German restaurant then took the kids swimming. On Monday we left around noon and headed back to Richmond. After picking up the dog and unloading the car we went to see a family movie -Night at the Museum 2. The kids enjoyed it and it was fun for them to see lots of the places we have been visiting in DC in the movie.

All in all a fun family weekend :) Now to catch up on everything around here before I head out on Thursday to Cape Cod to spend a weekend with some dear friends.

Life is good!

More Sight Seeing

2009-05-22T08:07:00.011-05:00

My parent just left yesterday after a week long visit - which explains my absents from the blog. Rest assured I was busy doing fun things and enjoying my time with my parents! Trying to convince them that they need to move to Richmond too. :) One of the places we went was to the Shirley Plantation. So interesting! The same family and owned and lived in this house since 1613 - 12 generations. The owner currently lives on the 2nd and 3rd floors. I love history and the way I feel when I am immersed in it!

My parents on the front porch:
The view of the James River from the main house:

The Main house (guest wings on each side of the house have been removed):

The ice house:

The store house:

The kitchens:

While my Mom and Dad where here visiting we put this quote up on the wall in the hallway from our kitchen to the mud room. I am happy with how it turned out :)

And now for my Friday Fill-in:

1. Moving across the country is hard AND exciting!

2. So thankful to live in a country where I am free.

3. My best quality is loyalty.

4. It is all in the details.

5. In nearly 10 years, I will be 53 :faint:, I will have been married for 27 years and I will have 3 kids in college.

6. A maid is what I need right now!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to spending some time with Don, tomorrow my plans include some sort of travel - still unsure where and Sunday, I want to enjoy a day with my family!

Have a great Friday!

Crazy Day

2009-05-14T07:18:00.003-05:00

A photo I took of a weed in the woods :)

I have been feeling a bit harried the past couple days - my mother-in-law and aunt-in-law left on Tuesday after staying with us for a week and my parents arrive today for a week visit. As I sat here this morning making my to-do list I decided I needed to take a deep breath - if it all doesn't get done - no big deal right? Time for a little reflection on the positive in the day!

1.) My parents are coming and I can't wait to see them!
2.) I have the cutest dog looking at me right now and every time I look down at her she wags her tail. So sweet!
3.) I'm having a good hair day.
4.) I can see trees right out my window - so green - love that.
5.) Sushi for lunch.

Now onward with my list. Hope you are all having a nice day!