lucky me

moving!

2009-07-07T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone (yes, all 6 of you. *lol*),

I'm officially making the move to TYPEPAD.

Update your bookmarks and Google Readers - you can now find me HERE.

see? I told you.

2009-06-16T20:16:00.000-07:00

Lots of cards...

No supplies list because it would just kill me to type it out. And I made so many cards that instead of individual pictures, it's in slideshow form. :)

Enjoy.

there are also 2 more cards that I didn't include in the slideshow. :)

what was once lost, now is found...

2009-06-12T21:36:00.000-07:00

I've gotten in a groove recently and have found my once-lost mojo.

When Carl's at work, I can get both kids in bed by 930pm. If I have done all my measly chores - dishes done, laundry folded, etc. - I find a little time to scrap and make cards. I usually get about an hour before I turn into a zombie... Then it's time for me to get ready for bed, time to feed Malia, wake up every few hours to feed her and then it's up by 8:30-9am to start the day with 2 kids.

Then repeat.

Sometimes when they nap at the same time during the day, I find some creative time too. But sometimes all I want to do nap along with them...

And once a week my in-laws come to help me (hubby works nights, usually in a succession of 3 in a row) so I get more time to scrap.

Since last week I've made a TON of cards. I haven't taken pictures (still need to do that), but believe me, it's a TON. I've also scrapped 4 layouts (darn my stupid scanner. I'm having problems with it!).

Go me. :)

layouts!

2009-06-05T12:08:00.000-07:00

Once in a while I get a chance to sit down and scrap... Sometimes layouts only take me less than an hour. Sometimes layouts take a few days. Creating layouts isn't the problem sometimes though... I just don't have the energy to scan them to post here.

The computer that's hooked up to our scanner is an almost 5 year old Windows based PC. It's sometimes a little finicky, sometimes slow, and most of the time ANNOYING since I'm used to my trusty Mac Book Pro.

I guess I could use my camera to take a pic of my layout and upload that instead... I just can never take the picture right...

Anyway, here are the layouts I've worked on these past few weeks... I'm pretty proud of myself because I used what I've had in my stash. Go me!

patterned paper: Fancy Pants
tranparency: Hambly Studios
pen: Sharpie
rhinestone title: Me and My Big Ideas

patterned paper: Fancy Pants
jounaling tag, title: My Mind's Eye
felt numbers, bracket, plastic flowers, brads, pen: American Crafts
stamping Ink: Crafter's

Stampin' Up!
cardstock: Pacific Point
patterned paper: Good Morning Sunshine DSP
lace cardstock: KI Memories
pen: Uniball Signo
vinyl letters: American Crafts

Stampin' Up!
cardstock: Bazzil; Whisper White (SU!)
patterned paper: Hand Drawn DSP
lace cardstock: KI Memories
stamp set: Big Bold Birthday
ink: Pacific Point, Riding Hood Red, Old Olive, So Saffron
font: Century Gothic

It's just been so cathartic to create again. I'm going to be bummed when I have to go back to work and divide my time. Why can't I just be a millionare and a stay at home mom and scrap all day??? :)

finally... some cards!

2009-06-04T18:13:00.001-07:00

I finally found some "me" time and was able to throw together 2 cards. I found a tutorial online on how to create a slider card and had to try it out! It was actually fun putting together - and super easy too! :)

All supplies Stampin' Up!
paper: Good Morning Sunshine DSP
cardstock: Pacific Point, Kiwi Kiss
inks: Pacific Point, Kiwi Kiss
stamp sets: Big Bold Birthday, Birthdays Count
accessories: ribbon - Kiwi Kiss 5/8" grosgrain, staple

I made the next card for Carl's goddaughter for her confirmation. The Special Blessing stamp set was perfect! It's hard sometimes to find religious stamps that are versitile... This one is pretty cool because there are sentiments for Baptism, First Communion, Marriage, and a generic one (like the one I used) that can be used for any other religious event. So pretty!

Anyway, this card served as a little money holder... Super easy! :)
All supplies Stampin' Up!
paper: Walk in the Park DSP
cardstock: Baja Breeze, Cameo Coral
ink: Baja Breeze
stamp set: Special Blessing

The supplies I marked in RED are retiring at the end of the month! I'm pretty bummed about it too. This season's In Colors were really fun to play with and I'm sad to see them go.

BUT, the good news is.... the NEW In Colors that will be debuting on July 1st are SO NICE! I can't wait to get them in my hands and PLAY!!!!

To order from the current catalog and get a chance to get your hands on these items and more (before it's too late) go to my Stampin' Up! site! :)

Last Chance!

2009-06-02T23:56:00.000-07:00

1) The "Last Chance" (formerly called "retired") lists just released yesterday! These are the stamps, accessories, decor elements, etc. that will only be available until the end of the Stampin' Up! year. That means, they'll only be available until June 30th. If you've had something on your wish list for a while now, but didn't know if you wanted to buy it, now is a GOOD time because once it's gone it's gone. They will only be available until June 30 or until they SELL OUT. So hurry!

Click on the links below to see the lists:

- Decor Elements Last Chance list
- Last Chance list (alphabetical)
- Last Chance list (numerical)

To view the Decor Elements catalog go HERE. To view the Spring-Summer 2009 Idea Book And Catalog go HERE. (these will take you to .pdf documents for download. Just FYI).

If you plan to order any Last Chance Accessories, I suggest you order them immediately through my website. I hesitated for just 12 hours and one paper set I wanted (actually TWO OF THEM) sold out before I got a chance to order them! Ugh. I regret that I didn't order it immediately!

The Last Chance list seems to be changing daily with new things being added or moved to the dormant list... Here's the latest as of 6/2/09:

Item #	Product Description	Price	Discount	Sale Price	Availability
112735	RUB ONS HIDDEN GARDEN BLOSSOMS	10.95	0.5	5.48	Available
112970	LO MEJOR DE TODO	19.95	0.5	9.98	Available
105143	DAYS TO REMEMBER 6X6 FR	9.95	0.5	4.98	Available
113888	RUB ONS MANY OCCASIONS	10.95	0.5	5.48	Available
109044	PUNCH SNOW BLOSSOM	10.95	0.5	5.48	Available
111364	RIBBON POLY TWILL SO SAFFRON 7/8"	8.95	0.5	4.48	Available
106961	STAZON REFILL WHITE	4.95	0.5	2.48	Available
114341	COURDUROY BUTTONS PACIFIC POINT	9.95	0.5	4.98	Available
114316	RIBBON ORIGINALS PIG TAILS	13.95	0.5	6.98	Available
111414	RUB ONS HIDDEN GARDEN	10.95	0.5	5.48	Available
114351	DESIGNER HARDWARE HOORAY	4.95	0.5	2.48	Available
114338	COURDUROY BUTTONS KIWI KISS	9.95	0.5	4.98	Available
114019	ACCENTS & ELEMENTS FLEURETTES	9.95	0.5	4.98	Available
114317	RIBBON ORIGINALS DRESS UP	12.95	0.5	6.48	Available
102875	HEMP TWINE RED	2.95	0.5	1.48	Available
101259	HEMP TWINE BLACK	2.95	0.5	1.48	Available
113979	ACCENTS & ELEMENTS CANVAS CUTS	7.95	0.5	3.98	Available
114350	DESIGNER HARDWARE SOHO	4.95	0.5	2.48	Available
111363	RIBBON GROSGRAIN PINK PIROUETTE 1 1/4"	7.95	0.25	5.96	Available
111365	RIBBON TAFFETA RIDING HOOD RED	6.95	0.25	5.21	Available
111847	RIBBON DOUBLE STITICHED BAJA BREEZE 1"	8.95	0.25	6.71	Available
111371	RIBBON GROSGRAIN STRIPED TANGERINE TANGO 5/8"	9.95	0.25	7.46	Available
111373	RIBBON GROSGRAIN STRIPED PINK PIROUETTE 5/8"	9.95	0.25	7.46	Available
111372	RIBBON GROSGRIAN STRIPED KIWI KISS 5/8"	9.95	0.25	7.46	Available
113884	RUB ONS FASHION DISTRICT	10.95	0.25	8.21	Available
114318	RIBBON ORIGINALS VALET	12.95	0.25	9.71	Available
111374	RIBBON GROSGRAIN STRIPED RIDING HOOD RED 5/8"	9.95	0.25	7.46	Available
111370	RIBBON GROSGRAIN STRIPED PACIFIC POINT 5/8"	9.95	0.25	7.46	Available
111415	RUB ONS GREATEST MOMENTS	10.95	0.25	8.21	Available
113887	RUB ONS BRIGHT DELIGHTS	11.95	0.25	8.96	Available
111416	RUB ONS CHATEAU BELLA	10.95	0.25	8.21	Available
111338	NOTES TEXTURED LOVE ASSORTMENT II	12.95	0.25	9.71	Available
111879	RIBBON SATIN KIWI KISS VERY VANILLA	7.95	0.25	5.96	Available
111277	RUB ONS A PERFECT DAY	10.95	0.25	8.21	Available
110730	DIE CUTS POCKETS & PIECES	8.95	0.25	6.71	Available
107272	PUNCH KEY TAG	15.95	0.25	11.96	Available
113980	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER CANDY LANE	9.95	0.25	7.46	Available
111375	RIBBON GROSGRAIN STRIPED BAJA BREEZE 5/8"	9.95	0.25	7.46	Available
112010	DIE CUTS BLOOMS AGAIN	8.95	0.25	6.71	Available
113991	TASTE OF TEXTILES	9.95	0.25	7.46	Available
101399	STIPPLE BRUSHES	6.95	0.25	5.21	Available
112092	BUTTON BOUQUET	7.95	0.25	5.96	Out of stock
112139	NOTES CAROUSEL II	11.95	0.25	8.96	Available
111336	NOTES SCALLOP II	11.95	0.25	8.96	Available
111840	CLASSIC STAMPIN INK REFILL PACIFIC POINT	2.95			Available
111841	CLASSIC STAMPIN INK REFILL TANGEIRNE TANGO	2.95			Available
111843	CLASSIC STAMPIN INK REFILL PINK PIROUETTE	2.95			Available
111839	CLASSIC STAMPIN INK REFILL RIDING HOOD RED	2.95			Available
111842	CLASSIC STAMPIN INK REFILL KIWI KISS	2.95			Available
112161	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER PATTERNS KIWI KISS	9.95			Available
112042	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER URBAN GARDEN	9.95			Available
112156	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER PATTERNS PINK PIROUETTE	9.95			Available
112150	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER PATTERNS PACIFIC POINT	9.95			Available
112153	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER PATTERNS TANGERINE TANGO	9.95			Available
111844	CLASSIC STAMPIN INK REFILL BAJA BREEZE	2.95			Available
111836	CLASSIC STAMPIN PAD RIDINGHOOD RED	5.95			Available
111838	CLASSIC STAMPIN PAD PINK PIROUETTE	5.95			Available
113966	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER GOOD MORNING SUNSHINE	9.95			Available
109123	STAMPIN WRITE JOURNALER BASIC BROWN	3.25			Available
113981	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER BELLA BIRDS	9.95			Available
112157	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER PATTERNS BAJA BREEZE	9.95			Out of Stock
113975	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER RASPBERRY TART	9.95			Available
114037	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SPECIALTY SWEET SLUMBER	11.95			Available
113978	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER URBAN OASIS	9.95			Available
112041	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER BELLA ROSE	9.95			Available
112468	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SWEET ALWAYS	9.95			Available
111834	CLASSIC STAMPIN PAD TANGERINE TANGO	5.95			Available
114039	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SPECIALTY ROCKABILLY	11.95			Available
108590	CARD STOCK NATURALS ASST 12X12	8.95			Available
111337	NOTES GIFT ASSORTMENT II	9.95			Available
112471	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER RAINBOW SHERBET	9.95			Out of Stock
112464	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER MANCHESTER	9.95			Available
112006	ACCENTS & ELEMENTS FLOWER FUSION II	14.95			Available
111837	CLASSIC STAMPIN PAD PACIFIC POINT	5.95			Available
112461	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER WASHINGTON APPLE	9.95			Out of stoc
113993	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SPECIALTY PARISIAN BREEZE	11.95			Available
112155	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER PATTERNS RIDING HOOD RED	9.95			Available
111353	CARD STOCK KIWI KISS 8-1/2 X 11	5.5			Available
111348	CARD STOCK RIDING HOOD RED 8-1/2 X 11	5.5			Available
112172	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN ROCK A BYE BOY	19.95			Out of stock
100900	GIFT SACKS WHITE	2.95			Available
114605	SIMPLY SENT CARD KIT MORE THOUGHTS	42.95			Out of stock
102264	COLUZZLE STARTER KIT	19.95			Available
111346	CARD STOCK IN COLOR 12 X 12	8.95			Available
111835	CLASSIC STAMPIN PAD KIWI KISS	5.95			Available
111350	CARD STOCK PACIFIC POINT 8-1/2 X 11	5.5			Available
105668	TATTOO KIT I	13.95			Out of stock
111349	CARD STOCK TANGERINE TANGO 8-1/2 X 11	5.5			Available
109231	SIMPLY SENT CARD KIT SENDING HAPPY THOUGHTS	54.95			Available
111351	CARD STOCK PINK PIROUETTE 8-1/2 X 11	5.5			Available
112165	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN ROCK A BYE GIRL	19.95			Out of stock
113950	DIE CUTS BUILD-A-FAIRYTALE	8.95			Available
111345	CARD STOCK TEXTURED IN COLOR 12 X 12	11.95			Available
105669	TATTOO KIT II	13.95			Out of stock
111833	CLASSIC STAMPIN PAD BAJA BREEZE	5.95			Available
113936	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN HOPPY MEMORIES	19.95			Out of stock
111347	CARD STOCK IN COLOR 8-1/2 X 11	7.95			Available
107288	ENVELOPE WHISPER WHITE EXTRA LARGE	5.5			Available
104310	CRAFTERS TOOL KIT	39.95			Available
111352	CARD STOCK BAJA BREEZE 8-12 X 11	5.5			Available
113943	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN 2 SWEET	19.95			Available
113925	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN SWEET NOTHINGS	19.95			Available
112179	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN LOVE STORIES	19.95			Available
113911	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN SUNSHINE GARDEN	19.95			Out of stock
112054	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN BEST EVER	19.95			Out of stock
111253	Blooms & Bulbs	6.5			Available
109684	Doodle	8.5			Available
111257	Happy, Happy Birthday	8.5			Available
109692	Love	6.5			Available
109568	My ABCs	6.5			Available
109682	Perfectly Pretty	6.5			Available
109687	See You Around	8.5			Available
109683	So Swirly	8.5			Available
111260	Something Fishy	8.5			Available
111262	Stems & Silhouettes	8.5			Available
105516	Watercolor Joy	6.5			Available
114528	Embosslit Flower	11.95			Available
116209	Note of Thanks	9.95			Available
116210	Birthdays Count	9.95			Available
112966	Curly Label Bundle*	33.95			Available
115535	Hand Drawn Bundle				Available

* The punch which is part of the Curly Label Punch bundle will carry over into the 2009-2010 Idea Book and Catalog

--------------

Anyway, my blog seems to be turning into a SU! blog hasn't it? I'm thinking of doing a couple of things... I'm not sure if I will do any of them yet. I may move to Typepad and move this blog over too... I *think* they have a way having multiple blogs and there's also a way of linking them together. It might be a good move too since they have templates that might make it easier for me to manage a SU! dedicated blog (to help promote my business), a scrapping blog, and a private family blog...

I'm still not sure of the move yet since Typepad is a paid site... I might just have to wait until I'm back at work and have regular paychecks coming my way.

We'll see. :)

Summer Fun!

2009-05-29T12:27:00.000-07:00

I can't believe June is only a couple days away! Half of the year is almost over... And come the week of July 19th my maternity leave is over and it's back to work for me. :(

In other news...The new Stampin' Up! 2009-2010 catalog comes out on July 1st! Such an exciting time. I'm used to receiving 2 catalogs a year! How can I live off of one? Should be easy though... I have a TON of items on my wishlist that I would LOVE to check off.

I'm starting to think about being a serious SU! Demonstrator. It makes me nervous to think about and I don't even know if I'll have enough time to do it - 2 kids, running a household, full time RN job but I'd like to try.

So if you're local and would like to hostess an SU! workshop and wouldn't mind a newbie demonstrator - EMAIL ME! :)

Or, if you would like to reserve the new catalog that's coming out on July 1st, let me know. I'll keep a list and as soon as the catalogs are in my hands, they'll be out in the mail to you! Each catalog is $10. I'll pay for shipping. :)

----------------

Dates: June 1-30, 2009

Promotion Details:

Customers who either host a workshop or place an on-line product order from $250-$399.99 will receive an additional $20 in hostess free merchandise dollars.
Customers who either host a workshopp or place an on-line product order of $400 or more will receive an additional $40 in hostess free merchandise dollars.

With the release on June 1 of Stampin' Up!'s Last Chance Stamps and Accessories (formerly referred to as "retired"), you can stock up on your favorites and earn additional hostess free merchandise with the Summer Fun Promotion.

Stampin' Up! May update

2009-05-18T23:51:00.000-07:00

Well, like I've said before, I'm mostly a hobby demonstrator, but I thought I'd pass along the latest deals Stampin' Up! has to offer this month!

Scrapbooking Promotion!

1. Buy any 3 packs of Designer Series Paper (including Specialty Designer Series Paper) or 12x12 textured cardstock, and get one pack free!

2. Buy a sneak peek stamp set from the 2009-2010 Idea Book & Catalog--Jumble Alphabet (set of 52; double-mounted)--at a 20 percent discount. See a sneak of what the alphabet looks like HERE.

There are so many great deals (I'm especially excited about the paper!) that I have to pace myself in ordering what I want! *lol* So bad for the wallet, but SO nice for the STASH! *lol*

AND, in celebration of National Scrapbooking month, SU! is offering an awesome deal to become a demonstrator for only $75 with the limited time scrapbooking starter kit that includes:

Item Code	Description	Retail Value
113510	Schoolbook Serif Alphabet stamp set*	$42.95
113059	Simply Scrappin' Petal Party	$19.95
108697	Earth Elements Assorted textured card stock (12" x 12")	$11.95
105240	Whisper White Craft Stampin' Pad	$7.50

*Substitutable for any stamp set up to $43.95 value.

Please note: Each of the products listed above may be substituted for like items. Please see the Scrapbooking Starter Kit Order Form for details.The Scrapbooking Starter Kit also contains all the business supplies contained in the standard Starter Kit:

Getting Started DVD
Getting Started Guide
Guest Invitation Postcard (100)
Idea Book & Catalog (8)
Occasions Mini Catalog (8)
To My Hostess Envelope (10)
Recruit Folders (5)
Recruit Brochures (20)
Hostess Brochure (20)
Hostess Benefits Form (10)
Customer Order Form (50)

Awesome deal if you ask me!

To place an order online, go to my Stampin' Up! website HERE. :)

recipe: flourles Peanut Butter Cookies

2009-05-16T16:26:00.001-07:00

Yes, please. :)

I got this recipe from a couple of places. I guess the foodie/baking/cooking & blogging community is intertwined somehow. I have 2 blogs saved in my Google Reader and this recipe was posted within days of each other.

Understandable, really. It's really good. So I'm sharing it here...

Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies
(from Joy the Baker and Honey and Jam)

1 cup all-natural chunky or smooth peanut butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 tsp baking soda

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a baking sheet with butter and set aside. In a mixer combine peanut butter and sugars until well combined, about 2 minutes. Add egg and baking soda and mix for another 2 minutes. Roll into walnut sized balls and create a cris-cross pattern with a fork. If you’d like, add a few chocolate pieces to the top of the cookies. Bake for 10 minutes, until lightly browned. Cool on a baking sheet for two minutes, then transfer to… your mouth.

-----

This recipe is SO GOOD it's DANGEROUS. I've already made 2 batches since discovering the recipe a few weeks ago. And each time I've had to give half of the batch away because I had consumed the other half in a matter of hours.

And just a warning though: since there's no flour, the cookies are pretty delicate. And I used old-fashioned PB - it works just fine. There's already a ton of sugar in it anyway!

Enjoy! :)

feeling crafty.

2009-05-14T17:13:00.000-07:00

Now that my mojo is back, it's hard to use it now that I barely have any "me" time. Between chasing a toddler and tending to a newborn, when I do have some free time, all I want to do is SLEEP! *lol*

Over the past few weeks though, I managed to bust out a few cards here and there - an easy way to utilize inspiration and feel productive. :)

I made a couple of cards for my mom and mother in law for Mother's Day...
(supplies: Candy Lane Designer Series paper, ribbon, All Holidays stamp set, stamping ink, scallop oval punch, scallop border punch: Stampin' Up!)

(supplies: patterned paper: Making Memories, Stampin' Up; All Holidays SU! stamp set; ribbon: SU!; scallop oval punch: SU!)

I made this card for my BFF... :)
(supplies: Stampin' Up! - cardstock: Baja Breeze, patterned paper: Walk in the Park Designer Series Paper, stamps: Great Friend set, ribbon: So Saffron, ink: Blue Bayou (retired), Groovy Guava (retired), Versamark, clear embossing powder)

and another card for my BFF's birthday. I just *heart* her. :)
(supplies: Stampin' Up! - patterned paper (Hand Drawn Designer Series paper), stamps: Big Bold Birthday set, scallop edge punch, wide oval punch, ink: Only Orange, cardstock: Tangerine Tango)

Her birthday happens to be 2 days after her 1 year wedding anniversary. Since I was in her wedding party and since she was so nice enough to remember my 1 year wedding anniversary 4 years ago with a present, I thought I would do the same. I made her a wedding slideshow using her engagement and wedding pictures and burned it onto DVD. And then I made this little envelope.
(supplies: Stampin' Up! - patterned paper (Candy Lane Designer Series Paper), ribbon: Rose Red, scallop oval punch, ink: Rose Red, Close to Cocoa; stamps: Congrats set)

So, even though I haven't been creating scrapbook layouts like I would like, I've been keeping myself plenty busy creatively. :) It's a nice feeling.

Happy Saturday. :)

Happy Belated Mother's Day...

2009-05-12T09:22:00.000-07:00

Sorry this post is coming so late. It was a long weekend for us... We spent Sunday at my family's house and we spent a low key Mother's Day with them and my in-laws.

And my husband, who is notorious for dropping the ball on holidays and special occasions and gift giving, gave me an awesome Mother's Day-Belated Valentine's Day-push present wrapped up in one:

His name is Louis and I'm in LOVE. *lol*

It's too expensive and extravagant and I told him that... But he knew I had been eyeing it for a LONG time so he got it for me anyway. Major points scored there!

It's my 3rd Mother's Day and I've loved every celebrating every single one. I'm reminded of how lucky I am to be a mother to 2 awesome kids. Yes, I'm tired all the time. I get impatient. I get frustrated. And I no longer have the "me" time that I SO need to just breathe... But I wouldn't change it for the world.

My BFF sent me this forward and I thought I'd post it here. It's so appropriate.

Before I was a Mom,
I never tripped over toys
or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not
my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never been puked on.
Pooped on.
Chewed on.
Peed on.
I had complete control of my mind
and my thoughts.
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held down a screaming child
so doctors could do tests.
Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night
watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held a sleeping baby just because
I didn't want to put her down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces
when I couldn't stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small
could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom,
I didn't know the feeling of
having my heart outside my body..
I didn't know how special it could feel
to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond
between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small
could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night
every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth,
the joy,
the love,
the heartache,
the wonderment
or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much,
before I was a Mom ...

I hope all of you out there had a beautiful Mother's Day weekend... Whether you're a mom, a step-mom, a fur-mom, a godmom - you all are special and should be celebrated. Thank you for all that you do for everyone around you! :)

recipe: One-Pan Chicken and Potato Bake

2009-05-08T10:47:00.000-07:00

4 bone-in chicken pieces (1 1/2lb)
4 large potatoes, cut into wedges
1/4 cup Italian Dressing
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 400F. Place chicken and potatoes in 13x9-inch baking dish.

Pour dressing over chicken and potatoes, sprinkle with cheese.

Bake 1 hour or until chicken is cooked through (180F). Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Makes 4 servings.

-----

I found this recipe in one of my old Kraft Food and Family magazines (I'm such a pack rat!). It looked really good in the picture... But when I made it, it was just ok.

I only used 3 potatoes (do you see how big those suckers were?) and I just used whatever chicken I had. The dish itself was tasty, but it was missing something. Hmmm...

I do have to give it props though... Super easy to make and it required just a little bit of time. If I ever made it again, though, I'd probably tweak it somehow.

Happy Friday!

5 weeks old.

2009-05-06T09:55:00.000-07:00

Time is FLYING. I can't believe that Malia is already 5 weeks old!

We celebrated her first Cinco de Mayo yesterday here at home. Low key and didn't do much, but it was such a nice day to be chilling at home. :) I'm learning how to use our Nikon and shoot in MANUAL mode. Kind of daunting, but thankfully, my DH has really been into photography (his knowledge about photography surpasses mine) and he gave me a quick-bare-bones lesson on how to shoot in manual.

Here are a couple pics I took with our Nikon D200, Nikkor 50mm f/1.4 in manual mode (and I didn't do any post processing).

It's been really really fun learning something new. I don't expect to be an awesome photographer like Caroline, Maria Grace, Ali, Tara, or Kelly, but I just want to step my game up a little bit.

And since I can't find any ME time to do anything crafty, I've rediscovered my love for cooking and baking again. I tried doing a cooking/baking blog and that didn't work, so I'll incorporate my food here in this blog (wish I started a while ago - I have been cooking up a storm!)

------------------

EASY CHICKEN & CHEESE ENCHILADAS

1 can (10 3/4 oz) Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup

1/2 cup sour cream

1 cup Pace Picante Sauce

2 tsp chili powder

2 cups chopped cooked chicken

1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

6 flour tortillas (6"), warmed

1 small tomato, chopped

1 green onion, sliced

1. Stir the soup, sour cream, picante sauce and chili powder in a medium bowl

2. Stir 1 cup picante sauce mixture, chicken and cheese in a large bowl

3. Divide the chicken mixture among the tortillas. Roll up the tortillas and place them seamside up in an 11x8" shallow baking dish. Pour the remaining picante sauce mixture over the filled tortillas. Cover the baking dish.

4. Bake at 350F for 40 minutes or until the enchiladas are hot and bubbling. Top with the tomato and onion

---

They didn't come out like the picture in my magazine showed, but they were still pretty good! And they were super easy, so I'll be making these again! :)

Have a great week!

3 weeks old

2009-04-19T18:17:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken a couple days ago by Carl. It's one of my most recent favorites.

We're so lucky that Jonah loves being a big brother!

Malia is already 3 weeks old today and we can hardly believe how big she's gotten! She eats all day and sleeps a TON. Her pediatrician says she's going through a growth spurt.

But even though she's sleeping a ton, I still haven't found any ME time yet to sit down and scrap some pictures. Both of them don't seem to sleep at the same time during the day and when they do, I seize the opportunity to sleep too! Can you blame me?

Have a good week y'all...

welcome to the world.

2009-03-30T10:53:00.001-07:00

Meet our beautiful baby girl Malia Noelle... Born just yesterday. (I'd put her stats here, but since this is a public blog, I'd rather keep it quiet)...

Yes, I have a chance to blog. Proud Daddy is holding her while she's asleep and we get free Wi-Fi in the hospital.

Hooray! :)

cricut cartridge storage: mission COMPLETE!

2009-03-23T17:41:00.000-07:00

I admit it. I'm terrible with completing projects. My mind has so many projects I'd like to tackle and I'm good at starting them, but I'm terrible with the follow-through.

Anyway, I came across this little project that seemed easy enough... It's a storage box for Cricut cartridges. How convenient! Kudos to the ladies who came up with this (I'm nowhere NEAR that creative!)...

Instructions can be found HERE...

I got the Snapware ribbon storage box from the Container Store when I made my trip with DH today... There's also a coupon going on for 25% off so I got it for a little over $8. :)

I got the plastic canvas from Walmart. $1.97 for 6 sheets. WAY more than I need. I don't have that many cartridges and don't know if I plan to buy more since I have SCAL now.... so if anyone wants me to cut the sheets to size and mail it to them (we'll discuss reimbursement later), let me know! Just leave me a comment here...

Isn't it cute?

I'm so proud of myself. As for the original boxes that the carts and booklets came in...I haven't decided what to do with them yet. I don't want to throw them away just yet... And if ever I decide to sell them or give them away, I'm sure the buyer would like the box. So, for now, they're shelved in the closet and away from my main scrap area. We'll see if I change my mind...

I've been getting a lot done...

2009-03-23T17:32:00.001-07:00

I've been doing pretty good while waiting for this baby to make her appearance. I've been scrapping and cleaning and just trying to do some crafts. It doesn't feel like she'll make her appearance any time soon so it seems like I'm getting a LOT done...

Here are some layouts and cards I've made recently...

supplies: patterned paper, letter stickers, die cut shapes: Sassafrass Lass; letter stickers, pen: American Crafts

supplies: patterned paper: (unknown, will update later); felt border: KaiserCrafts; letter stickers, chipboard letters, chipboard shapes, pen: American Crafts; rubber stamp: Cat's Life Press; stamping ink: Color Box, Versamark; embossing powder: Stampin' Up!

supplies: cardstock: Bazzill; patterned paper, bingo card: Jenni Bowlin; letter stickers, journaling pen: American crafts; chipboard: Scenic Route; transparency frame: My Mind's Eye; other: ribbon

supplies: cardstock: Bazzill; patterned paper: (unknown, will update later); rub on sentiment: American Crafts; circle cutter: Coluzzle

supplies: cardstock: Bazzill; patterned paper: (unknown, will update later); rub on sentiment: American Crafts; oval punch: Marvy Uchida; die cut label: Top Note Die for Big Shot - Stampin' Up!

So, as you can see, I'm making the most of my maternity leave. I'm hoping the mojo will stick around after she arrives!

(I couldn't remember the name of that patterned paper I used in the layout and the 2 cards... Preggo brain, I swear! *lol*)

a layout

2009-03-19T16:52:00.001-07:00

I should have been putting my feet up and laying on the couch when Jonah was napping. Instead I scrapped a page.

supplies: patterned papers: Making Memories, Flair Designs; Letter stickers, journaling pen: American Crafts; heart punches: Stampin' Up!

Used what I had lying around... Including a piece of patterned paper that was an impulse buy (and I have a hard time using patterned papers that are too busy!)

Professional photos are my achilles heel. I have a hard time scrapping them... and big events that have tons of pictures - birthdays, christmases, etc. Ugh.

baby update...

2009-03-19T12:54:00.000-07:00

We are officially 38 weeks and 1 day pregnant.

This picture was taken last week when we were about 37 weeks.

I'm having contractions every so often - still irregular, but my doctor said I'm about 2cm and 70% effaced.

I'll take these contractions over back labor (like I had with Jonah) ANY DAY.

I downloaded a Contractions app for my iPhone. Yes, I don't know how to count and tell time. Seriously though, it's because Carl is working every night until Saturday and I'm very afraid of going into full blown labor without him.

I still have scrapbooking on my mind (as you can see with my previous post!).

I'm excited that the hospital where we're delivering has got Wi-Fi (they didn't have it 2 years ago when Jonah was born.)

I'm anxious about going into labor again. They measured her and said she's about 8lbs 5oz (give or take a pound). Leave it to her to already be kicking her brother's ass (he was born at 7lbs 7oz at 37 weeks and 6 days). *lol*

wish list...

2009-03-19T12:26:00.000-07:00

You know, I really should stay away from scrapping messageboards. All they ever do is enable me... and make me want things I cannot afford right now, but SO WANT. I'm a tool junkie. Besides idea books, new scrapping tools make me weak...

On my list?

A Making Memories Slice. They now carry it at Michaels. But of course, you can't use the coupon on it. I guess it's because it's still a new item?

I still want one.

It's cute. It's portable. And the the images and fonts on some of the cartridges are too adorable!

Another thing on my list? Stampin' Up's exclusive Big Shot. I know I can get the Big Shot anywhere... But I like the sleekness of the all black SU! version. And I know that I already have a Cuttlebug and a Cricu - what do I need a Big Shot for?

There are some dies exclusive to SU! that are just so cute and I'm not sure that my Cuttlebug will accept them without breaking. I think I'll buy this next quarter though to help me with my minimum sales...

Nestabilities Dies! Aren't these labels so CUTE? I never knew about Nestabilities until last night while hanging out on the 2Peas board. AND then I found a Google video on how to use them in the Cuttlebug. I SO want them all.

But it's a bummer because I JUST bought a bunch of punches. These would have been better. I would have saved some money AND space!

**edited to add** - Ok, I caved and bought this set online at Cut@Home. If you join their mailing list, every month you get a 40% off coupon to use on one item. So I used it on this label set. I couldn't resist the price!

There's also a sale going on for a few days on Nestabilities at Joann.com. But if you're patient (like me), I'd just use the Cut@Home coupon once a month until I collect all the dies I want. It'll take a while but it'll be worth saving the money in the end!

been busy...

2009-03-12T10:09:00.001-07:00

We've been busy preparing for the little one's arrival, who, according to my OB, can arrive any day now. I know it's early (I'm only 37 weeks!) but with my previous history with Jonah (he was just shy of making it to 38 weeks) and my gestational diabetes, there's a chance she'll want to make her appearance sooner or she'll be too big for me to carry to full term. We will see...

So, I've been frantically trying to organize the house, the scrap room, and get everything ready for her arrival. It's been busy to say the least!

But I've had time to scrap a little! Yay me!

supplies: kraft cardstock (Stampin' Up!), patterned paper (Candy Lane Designer Series Paper - Stampin' Up!), font die cut letters (Fling font cut with Cricut and SCAL)

I finally got SCAL loaded into my laptop and I'm having a lot of fun with it! No more investing in new cartridges... Well, maybe it will decrease my desire. I can't promise anything! *lol* It's so easy to use. I love it. I just hate how it cuts so SLOW. But I guess that's the price you pay for the value...

Anyway, I made 3 other similar cards.. And I made this one:

supplies: American Crafts patterned paper and cardstock; Thank You rub-on: 7 gypsies; stamping ink: ColorBox; scallop and circle punches: Marvy Uchida

I made the cards for some co-workers at work who gave us some awesome baby shower presents. :)

And there were a couple of group gifts from some units so instead of cards I made layouts to display in their report rooms:

This one was an 8x8 layout... I hadn't scrapped in this size in FOREVER. I love how liberating it is! supplies: cardstock, silk flower: Bazzill; patterned paper, brad: American Crafts; scallop border punch: Stampin' Up!; font: 2Peas Sailboat; die cut letters: Alphalicious (Cricut)

And this is a 12x12 layout I did for my unit... supplies: patterened paper: Sassafrass Lass; cardstock: Bazzill; silk flower: Prima; font: 2Peas Sailboat; die cut letters: Alphalicious (Cricut); felt letters, pen: American Crafts

And finally I made a card for my MIL's birthday this past Tuesday. Super simple! supplies: patterned paper: I can't remember what set, but it was a hostess set from the Spring/Summer 2009 catalog from Stampin' Up!; fabric label: Making Memories: scallop border punch: Stampin' Up!

Whew! I've been busy, haven't I??? I want to use all the scrapping mojo I can before the baby's arrival. I doubt I'll have time after that!

Have a great rest of the week!
\

book review: Get Creative with Type

2009-03-05T17:59:00.000-08:00

I finally had a chance to go through the book a little better and I do have to say I'm pretty impressed.

Pros:
- lots of great ideas for using fonts in titles and journaling!
- lots of tips on how to use them effectively on layouts.
- I loved the different examples they gave. Lots of fun artists in there!

Cons:
- While I do love fonts, I love them FREE. I really hate paying for fonts. I mean, WHY should we have to pay for them if they'll be used for personal stuff? Most of the fonts showcased in the book are PAID fonts. (I googled most of the ones that caught my eye.) And these fonts AREN'T cheap. They run anywhere from $29-49 each! Insane!
- The book doesn't go into detail about how fonts actually can slow your computer down. My husband told me that a while back - Especially if you're using a Windows based computer. Fonts take up a lot of the hard drive and actually slow down the way Windows runs (I'm not sure about Macs)...

Anyway, I have a gift for you... I found the Fling font online for free when doing my research... It's the font that's used in the title of the book "Get Creative"...

Follow this link... You might want to hurry too. I'm not sure how long the link will be valid!

take a guess!

2009-03-04T14:46:00.001-08:00

Anyone want to participate in our baby pool?

Anyone want to take a guess? No official prize, but I'm curious to see what you all think!

Here's a little info:
- We're having a GIRL.
- She's due April 1st.
- Jonah was 2 weeks early.

Good luck!

no photos... but...

2009-03-01T18:21:00.000-08:00

I made 2 cards the other day. Both were birthday ones and I must say they were really cute. I didn't get a chance to take pics of them because I was rushing off to my baby shower and I already gave them away! Bummer. So take my word for it, I made 2 more cards. :)

3 more shifts left of work (tomorrow, Friday and Saturday) and I begin maternity leave. Can you tell I'm excited???

I swear the UPS guy is going to kill me. *lol* I've had more packages delivered these past 2 weeks than ever - I know I said I'm on a strict budget, but I'm trying to get the room organized and I need help with that! Anyway, here's my latest purchase. It's a hard carrying case for my still unused sewing machine. It's such a shame. My mom was a seamstress before she retired. She worked for the for quite a bit when I was growing up as a kid. She can make sleeping bags with one hand tied behind her back (well, not really, but you get the point. *lol*)

Anyway, she got me a sewing machine a couple years ago for my birthday because I asked her for one - to try and learn some simple sewing and perhaps sewing on scrap pages, but the thing is STILL in it's box and sealed. *hangs head in shame*

So I got a carrying case so I can get it out of the box and out in the open. Maybe seeing it out of the box will convince me to use it someday.

Or maybe it'll just be more convenient for my mom to use when she comes over so I can ask her to alter my pant hems. *lol*

nesting instinct?

2009-02-28T10:10:00.000-08:00

I don't know if it would be considered nesting instinct if it has nothing to do with the baby or cleaning the rest of the house, but I think the nesting thing is starting to kick in - HARDCORE.

DH put my Expedit together and I have to still organize it and the rest of the room.

We're planning to make a trip to Home Depot one of these days for some wall shelving. We've had a gift card for a while and while it was for DH for his birthday a year or so ago, he hasn't used it yet so I'm claiming it as MINE now. *lol* I can't wait to start storing stuff vertically and OFF the floors! *lol*

And I got 2 new idea books recently (I'm a sucker for idea books, you all know that)... I haven't had a chance to look at them in their entirety yet, but they both look promising. I don't know why I have an addiction to idea books - maybe the pictures? The guidelines? The actual IDEAS? Who knows... I just can't get enough of them. Thank goodness for Amazon and their discounted prices and free shipping. I can't see myself paying whole price for one of these things.

Keep on the lookout for a future post. I may advertise a virtual garage sale here on my blog after I'm done purging my stuff... I'm thinking of making kits with the stuff I'm getting rid of (Thanks for the idea Ady!), getting rid of some older idea books and magazines, some wood mounted rubber stamps I don't use anymore, etc...

But that's a WHOLE 'nother project to take on aside from organizing the scrap room and pictures so that's going to have to wait.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend! I'm off to celebrate a baby shower honoring me and our baby girl. :)

new look?

2009-02-24T23:57:00.000-08:00

After almost 2 years of this blog, I thought I'd give it a facelift and try something new...

What do you think of the new look? Love it? Hate it? Too bright? Too busy? Lettering and such too small?

Hmm... I'm usually a minimalist, but I like how fun and vibrant this is... I may leave it this way for a while...

Here's where I got the template:

Oh and I guess if you follow my blog via Google Reader, it doesn't affect you much, does it?

Our Love Story (mini)

2009-02-19T21:32:00.000-08:00

So here's the little book I made for Carl for Valentine's Day...

Not bad for losing my mojo for the past year, don't you think? :)

supplies:
cardstock: Bazzill
patterned paper: American Crafts, Teresa Collins
letter stickers: American Crafts, My Little Shoebox
silk flower: Prima
mini brads: Queen & Co.
stamping ink: StazOn
chipboard and epoxy stickers: Love, Elsie
other: binder rings, Cropodile, ribbon (various sources)

Wish I could also say that I also got an awesome and romantic V Day gift in return, but sadly, I didn't. *sigh* Oh well...

i'm on a mission.

2009-02-18T17:30:00.001-08:00

I'm seriously on a mission to reorganize my scrapbook room/office. I think that's a HUGE part of why I lose mojo so fast - I can get SOOOO disorganized!

And that's such a terrible trait - I'm a VIRGO for goodness sakes! (I didn't mean for that to rhyme. *lol*)

The scraproom is really cluttered. I need to gut the place and start fresh. But there's just so much stuff I don't even know where to begin.

Over the weekend, Carl and I made a trip to Ikea and I got an Expedit bookcase! It hasn't been assembled yet and we haven't brought it up from the garage (we need help doing that), but I'm super excited to get it done. We also picked up some drawers for some of the cubbies and a couple of doors. It should be interesting to get it finally finished.

And now onto Stacy Julian's newest book... I thought I just had it on my wishlist on Amazon but imagine my surprise when I got an email confirmation saying that the book had shipped and would be delivered this past Monday! I was super excited - there was a huge lag and wait time for the book - 1-2 months - and that's why I never added it.

But I'm SO GLAD that I did (even if it was by accident! *lol*). This book is awesome. It's totally inspiring me to go through my pictures and reorganize the way I scrapbook. Her style totally just fits mine. I love it. I can't wait to implement her ideas and adapt them to my own.

I went ahead and ordered the index card file boxes I had mentioned in a previous post. I can't wait for those to arrive so I can organize my pictures!

And yes, I know I should be saving money.... But you know what? We called our loan guy to see how it would look if we were to buy a house while still owning the condo - it doesn't look so good. Stupid economy. So, while we're stuck in our condo for goodness knows how long, we might as well make ourselves comfortable and happy. Don't you think?

Yes, I'm totally trying to rationalize my spending. :)

But it's ok though - I've got a really supportive husband!... who happens to have expensive (if not MORE expensive) hobbies too... :)

lots of layouts and cards...

2009-02-09T18:46:00.001-08:00

Last Friday I organized a girls night out with some gals I met on a mommy messageboard. A couple of us hit up Remember When's weekender crop. I had never been to a crop there before but it was super fun! I got 4 pages done and I'm almost done with hubby's Valentine's Day gift. Yippee...

Here are the layouts I did:

don't mind the mess on the desk!
supplies: patterned paper: Making Memories, October Afternoon; letter stickers: Heidi Swapp, journaling block: Making Memories; journaling pen: American Crafts.

supplies: patterned paper: October Afternoon, Digital Brush: Ali Edwards (www.designerdigitals.com), chipboard heart: Heidi Swapp, font: Century Gothic, other: corner rounder

supplies: cardstock: Bazzill, patterned paper, chipboard letters: Scenic Route; journaling sticker, pen: American Crafts; epoxy stickers: SEI

supplies: cardstock: Bazzill; patterned paper, letter stickers, rub-ons: Heidi Grace; grommets: We R Memory Keepers; digital brush: Ali Edwards (www.designerdigitals.com); font: Century Gothic, Susie's Hand

As you can see, I'm totally a fan of enlarging my pics and using Ali Edwards' digital brushes from Designer Digitals. I love the look it creates. So much fun playing around with them in Photoshop.

AND, that's just not it, people. I actually got busy and made some cards. I didn't make them at the crop night, but it was still fun creating them at home. :)

supplies: cardstock, scallop border punch, stamping ink: Stampin' Up!; stamp: Pun Fun (Stampin' Up!); ribbon: Target

The following 3 cards were made using the Love You Much Bundle that Stampin' Up! offered last month... The deal is over, but the paper, stamps and paper punch can be bought separately!

supplies: stamps: Love You Much set; paper: Candy Lane Designer Series paper; Heart to Heart punch; scallop circle punch; scallop border punch; ribbon (unknown)

supplies: Party Hearty set, stamping ink, paper crimper, cardstock, stamping ink - Stampin' Up!; other: ribbon from Target

supplies: Big Bold Birthday set, stamping ink, cardstock - Stampin' Up!; other: mini-brad (unknown)

So there you have it. I think I did pretty good with my vacation time don't you think? :)

And if ever you want to order some Stampin' Up goodness, go to my website! Sale-A-Bration is going on right now and it's a great way to get free stamps!

Well, I'm back to work tomorrow night. *sigh* Hope you all have a wonderful week!!!

quickie update

2009-02-08T09:58:00.001-08:00

Congrats to my friend Jamie who delivered a beautiful baby girl yesterday! So excited for her and her husband! Baby Keira is beautiful!

Sorry for the lack of updates! I've been on vacation this week just to chill and it's also Jonah's birthday week so we've been a little busy. Zoo on Monday. Aquarium on Wednesday (his actual birthday) and his birthday party is today. Whew! It's exhausting!

I DID get together with some friends and got some scrapping done! 4 layouts and I'm almost done with a *gasp* MINI-BOOK for the hubby for Valentine's Day.

I haven't scanned or taken pictures of my finished stuff, but I will as soon as I get a chance (probably tomorrow... Hubby is going out with some friends in the afternoon and if Jonah takes a good long nap, I have a date with the scanner. *lol*)

Pregnancy #2 is going well so far. I've accepted the gestational diabetes, but the OB keeps throwing curveballs at me - now I have to go to the hospital twice a week for non stress tests. *sigh* I pray for a healthy baby. All of this is for her.

4 more weeks of work. I'm so excited to be on maternity leave. I absolutely cannot wait. You KNOW I'll be counting down the days. *lol*

More later...

must. show. restraint.

2009-01-31T11:14:00.000-08:00

CHA just ended and it seems like everywhere I turn, there are sneak peeks and beautiful eye candy of scrapping goodies everywhere!

Must. Show. Restraint.

I'm tempted. Believe me, I really am. But I have to remember that my maternity leave is coming up and I won't be earning the same amount of $$ that we're used to. With a baby on the way, we're going to have to readjust our budget. AND, we want to move out of our little condo by the end of summer so we have a down payment to save up for.

Must. Show. Restraint.

*sigh*

Last night, the nesting bug kicked in - scrapping style. *lol* I didn't feel like cleaning the house, but I felt like organizing my craft room/office. So I worked on inventorying the stuff I have. So far, I made a list of punches that I have. Now I'm working on the stamps. That's going to take me a while since I've accumulated quite the collection.

Other stuff to inventory?
Cricut carts
Quickutz stuff
Cuttlebug stuff
Sizzix stuff
acrylic stamps

Then I want to organize the pictures I have to work on scrapping. I like the idea of this... Currently my pictures that I have to scrapbook are all scattered all over the room - drawers, boxes, envelopes, etc. I don't have an organized system for it all. But I got this idea off of Stacy Julian's Library of Memories class (I'm not taking the class. I can't justify $90!) and I liked the concept.

And then after inventorying my supplies and organizing my pictures, I want to finally purge stuff I want to get rid of. I REALLY need to do this. I was going through my punches last night and I realized that I have a TON of Paper Shapers that I don't plan on using again. But I tend to be a packrat (like my mom) and purging is going to be difficult. I tend to find a way to convince myself that I *may* use something one day. And Carl doesn't help with it either - his philosophy is that if you spent that much money on something, why should you get rid of it for less money or no money at all? *sigh*

I also want to create better storage for my acrylic stamps. I haven't found a system that works for me yet and I have tons of acrylics. I found this video a few weeks ago and really want to try out this system. Jennifer McGuire totally rocks. That's another project I want to work on...

So, as you can see, I have a lot that I want to do, but I don't know if I'll ever have enough time or energy to do it all. I tend to start projects I don't finish, but I'm determined to finish these...

Wish me luck!

me? fabulous?

2009-01-22T23:37:00.001-08:00

So my dear gal pal Gabrielle, who has stuck by my blog even though I've been mostly M.I.A. in 2008, awarded me with this cool little award. :) Thanks girlie!

And in the spirit of the award, I am supposed to admit 5 addictions and name 5 other bloggers whom I think are just as fabulous. :)

Addictions:

1. Days off and spending them with the family. I adore my hubby and son. I'm lucky to spend so many of my days of the week with them - Just the 3 of us (soon to be 4!)

2. shoes - specifically UGG boots. I've got 3 pairs and still want a couple more. I think I call that an addiction.

3. my laptop - I'm on it way too much. But there's just something about my MacBook Pro that whispers my name - ALL the time.

4. reality TV - I'm getting better with cutting back the killing-the-braincells kind (examples: Rock of Love Bus, Real Chance of Love, etc.) but I still love me some Amazing Race, Survivor, Jon & Kate +8 (though not as much as I used to), Top Chef, and Real Housewives of Orange County. Can't wait for Making the Band 4 to start back up again!

5. scrapbooking - duh. *lol*

And now I award:

- Corinne - my BFF who hasn't blogged since last July, but I love her to death anyway.
- Jamie - she's been so supportive of me since I've been diagnosed with gestational diabetes.
- Ady - another gal pal who frequented my blog even though I had nothing to blog about! *lol*
- Kim - LOVE her. And she's having a girl soon too!
- Mars - she takes digital to a whole new level

It's getting late and I should head to bed! Goodnight!

layouts for the new baby...

2009-01-22T23:08:00.000-08:00

I never completed my pregnancy with Jonah album... I don't know if I'll ever finish. But I'm determed to scrap a few pages about this Baby Girl! I don't want her growing up and feeling neglected!

supplies: cardstock: Bazzill; paterned paper, die cut letters: KI Memories; felt letters, pens: American Crafts; journaling block: Making Memories; flowers: Prima; mini brads: unknown

supplies: cardstock: Stampin' Up!, Bazzill; patterned paper: Scenic Route; pen, brads: American Crafts; letter stickers: Heidi Swapp

I made this card for a friend whose sister recently passed away. I plan on getting people from my unit to sign it and also I plan to collect money for her family. Her sister passed away before her life insurance went into effect and before she was able to make any payments (next month!). So sad. :(

supplies: cardstock: Bazzill; patterned paper: Stampin' Up! Holiday Treasures Designer Series; ribbon: Stampin' Up Rose Red 1/4" grosgrain; rubber stamp: "For A Friend" set (Stampin' Up!); scallop border punch: Stampin' Up!, scallop oval punch: Marvy Uchida

So, there you have it... I'm on a roll. :)

so awesome for our nation...

2009-01-22T18:54:00.001-08:00

I didn't get a chance to post about this earlier... But I do have to say that I'm proud to be an American. So hopeful for the future of our country!

Stamp to Scrap 2009

2009-01-21T16:52:00.000-08:00

I found this post over at Split Coast Stampers...

Here's how it works:

For every fifteen cards you complete, allot yourself $20 to spend on supplies. That way you're using your stash but able to shop as you go! (Adhesive is NOT included - you can buy those whenever you need to do so)

If you're a scrapbooker, every five layouts would be $20. If you're big on altering, every ten altered items would be $20.

Put it on your profile and keep it updated on how many you've done and how much you've spent. For instance:

Layouts: 17
Cards: 18
Allotted: $80.00
Spent: $45.00

You can change the amounts as needed for your own budget.

I think Corinne and I tried doing this a couple years ago but we didn't really stay too strict on our goals and we were scrapping like crazy at the time - we totally justified our spending with the fact that we were creating layouts!

But I think I'll do better with it this time... Especially since we're saving up for a house and we've got baby #2 on the way to save up for. NO FRIVOLOUS SPENDING, right?

I DO have exceptions though:
1. adhesive
2. organizational tools - I've been frantically working on cleaning up my scraproom to make it look decent. I really need shelving in there.
3. Stampin' Up! stuff - I became a demonstrator mostly for hobby since their stuff is just too cute and irresistable. BUT as a demonstrator I need to make the minimum amount in quarterly sales. And since I don't host workshops (no time!), the only person who's buying from me is me. So I am left with no choice but to buy their stuff...

AND the new 2009 Stampin' Up! Spring-Summer Idea Book and Catalog just released... 212 pages of stamps and awesome ideas! I can't wait until my shipment box comes in!

To view the catalog without purchasing it go HERE.

If you'd like me to mail you a catalog, email me at joboogie at gmail dot com. The catalogs are $9.95. I'll pay for shipping ($5) OR if you pay for shipping, I'll give you a $5 credit on your first purchase (from the 2009 Spring-Summer catalog only).

RIP Simple Scrapbooks

2009-01-17T11:20:00.000-08:00

I guess it was a matter of time before more magazines would cease production. Simple Scrapbooks was probably one of my favorites. I subscribed since the beginning and just renewed for another year (it'll be credited to my CK subscription I guess)... I'm super sad to see it end. It was one of the few magazines that I felt truly inspired that I could actually create layouts for me, not for show.

Here's the official announcement.

So sad. :(

2 cards...

2009-01-17T09:26:00.000-08:00

I met one of my goals that I set for 2009! I actually created 2 cards. 1 for a co-worker who I love dearly but is moving to another unit, the other for our assistant manager who is pregnant. :)

Super happy that I used what I had around... AND super happy that I actually got a chance to sit down and have some ME time. It's been a rough week...

(I used mostly Stampin' Up! stuff with this card... I'll add the supply list later...)

(again, I'll add the supply list later..)

-----

In other news... We're a 29 weeks along in this pregnancy and we've had our ups and downs. This week I was diagnosed with borderline gestational diabetes. And I was devastated at first, but after talking to a few people (whattup Jamie!) I know I can get through it... It's a healthier lifestyle change and it'll help not only me, but our baby girl too.

It's going to be tough - I love carbs. I love desserts and chocolate... and baking... But I have to remind myself it's only for the next 11 weeks or so...

And leave it to my husband to think of the silver lining: "Well, at least you have something to add to baby girl's scrapbook!" And yes, he's right. *lol*

Stampin Up!

2009-01-09T10:18:00.000-08:00

A few months ago I signed on to be a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator... I'm mostly doing it as a hobbyist as I don't have very much time to do workshops and stuff. I love their products and their stamps are just AWESOME.

So, here's a little shameless plug about some awesome promos they have going on right now...

----------------------

Inventory Blowout

Dates: January 5-18, 2009

Promotion details:

Get retired, retiring, and current products up to 50 percent off regular price!

Items retiring from the Fall-Winter 2008 Idea Book & Catalog:

Item	Page	Description	Regular Price	Discount Price
109190	180	On Board 9" x 9" clipboard	$7.95	$5.99
107925	181	On Board Bitty Book	$9.95	$6.99
105384	183	Mellow Moss 6" x 6" Linen Post album	$19.95	$14.99
105381	183	Real Red 6" x 6" Linen Post album	$19.95	$14.99
103977	187	Bold Bright buttons	$6.95	$4.99
104389	188	Double Circle punch	$5.95	$4.49
114447	n/a	Country Living Holiday Collection Stampin' Kit	$49.95	$24.98

*Items available while supplies last; page numbers refer to the Fall-Winter 2008 Idea Book & Catalog

Retired items from the Spring-Summer 2008 Idea Book & Catalog:

Item	Page	Description	Regular Price	Discount Price
109013	163	Blue Bayou Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.25	$3.99
109012	163	Groovy Guava Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.25	$3.99
109011	163	Purely Pomegranate Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.25	$3.99
109010	163	River Rock Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.25	$3.99
109009	163	Soft Sky Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.25	$3.99
109014	163	Wild Wasabi Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.25	$3.99
109179	178	On Board Ginormous Pieces	$14.95	$10.99
109189	190	Beachfront Ribbon Originals	$12.95	$7.99
109187	190	District Ribbon Originals	$12.95	$7.99
109188	190	Fairy Tale Ribbon Originals	$12.95	$8.49
109185	190	Jersey Ribbon Originals	$12.95	$8.99
109184	190	Sherbet Ribbon Originals	$12.95	$8.99
109186	190	Theater Ribbon Originals	$12.95	$8.49
109062	191	River Rock double-stitched ribbon	$8.95	$6.49
110716	191	Wild Wasabi striped grosgrain ribbon	$7.95	$5.49

*Items available while supplies last; page numbers refer to the Spring-Summer 2008 Idea Book & Catalog

Current products appearing in the upcoming Spring-Summer 2009 Idea Book & Catalog:

Item	Page	Description	Regular Price	Discount Price
111349	162	Tangerine Tango 8-1/2" x 11" card stock	$5.50	$4.49
111345	162	In Color (2008-2009) 12" x 12" textured card stock	$11.95	$8.99
109110	185	Fire Circle Rhinestone brads	$10.95	$7.99
109112	185	Fire Square Rhinestone brads	$10.95	$7.99
109113	185	Ice Square Rhinestone brads	$10.95	$7.99
111325	185	Styled Silver Hodgepodge Hardware	$29.95	$22.49
112454	185	Styled Vanilla Hodgepodge Hardware	$29.95	$22.49
113451	n/a	20th Anniversary Embosslits die	$11.95	$9.49

*Quantities at reduced price are limited; page numbers refer to the Fall-Winter 2008 Idea Book & Catalog

-----------

Love You Much Promotion

Dates: December 23, 2008 - January 31, 2009

Promotion details:

Get ready for Valentine's Day with the exclusive Love You Much Bundle (item 115405). The Love You Much Bundle includes the following:

Description	Retail Value
Love You Much stamp set	$25.95
Candy Lane Designer Series paper (Close to Cocoa, Pink Pirouette, Riding Hood Red, Very Vanilla)	$9.95
Heart To Heart punch	$15.95

Bundle Retail Value	$51.85

Love You Much Bundle (20% off; item 115405)	$41.48

-----------

Anyway, if you'd like to place an order feel free to comment here and leave your email address... I also have a website that you can order directly from: http://joann.stampinup.net

Happy Stampin'! :)

new year. new me.

2009-01-09T10:03:00.000-08:00

Well, not really a new me, but I do have some New Year's goals... I didn't do so well with last year's scrapping related goals, but I hope to do better with BabyGirl on the way... Cross your fingers that I can do it!

1. Use what I have. - Yes, I know. I think I say this every year. But this time I mean it. We're saving up to buy a house and we just don't have room for any more stuff.... Also, I shouldn't spend money that could be used for our savings... And with me going on maternity leave soon, our finances will be spread thin. Time to budget.

2. 1 project a week. - Kind of broad right? I can whip out a card, a layout, a mini book, etc... It's kind of a non-committal type of goal. I can do it. I know I can.

3. Post my work here. - I've been slacking in that department. I scrapped a handful of times last year, but never got a chance to scan or take pictures of my layouts for posting here. My mojo was gone, but I still was able to do stuff. I just was too lazy to share with all of you (there ARE still people out there, right? *lol*)

And there you have it... 3 goals. Almost a year's worth of time to keep up with them. I can do it. I know I can... (just don't get mad if it doesn't happen within the month BabyGirl is born. *lol*)

here are some layouts I did last year that I didn't post here...

LAME!

2009-01-01T10:44:00.001-08:00

So, just when I think I've gotten my mojo back and I'm inspired to start scrapping again... I wanted to purchase the new CK KOTM today since it released today... I had it in my cart along with some other stuff and when I went to checkout the site was SLOW, it wouldn't accept my password and email combo when I KNOW for a fact that it's the one I've used since 2000 for their site.

It worked when I logged in to the messageboard but when I went to purchase something it didn't... So now, the kit is SOLD OUT.

Grrr... How LAME IS THAT?! Not a good way to start off the new year. Grrr... I'm hoping they'll offer it again because it was so popular... But I hate the site. Hate it. Hate it.

the reason...

2008-11-13T21:24:00.000-08:00

Ok, so the reason why I haven't blogged... and the reason why I've been busy... and the reason why I haven't scrapped a single page in what seems like I forever:

Yes, you're reading it right... We're expecting a BABY GIRL on April 1st, 2009. We're so excited - an addition to the family AND Jonah's going to be a big brother! :)

Now seriously... I need to start getting my mojo back. Not only do I feel so behind with Jonah's scrapbook, I have a baby girl to scrap about too! Ack!

4 years ago...

2008-10-11T12:10:00.000-07:00

Didn't have time to blog on our actual wedding anniversary but we didn't forget...

4 years ago (plus a couple days...) I married my best friend. We've been together for over 13 years now. That's quite some time. Time flies by so quickly, yet when I look back and think about our lives together we've been through so much. And we have a lifetime to go...

We haven't celebrated yet - we actually both worked on Thursday night... We didn't even get each other presents this year (well, that boudoir photo shoot was enough to last me through Christmas! *lol*) Carl didn't get me anything. We didn't exchange cards. And for once, I'm okay with that. I really am.

We may go out to dinner tomorrow to celebrate depending on if my family can watch Jonah... If not, we may, instead go to brunch. We'll see!

hello. remember me?

2008-09-24T17:26:00.000-07:00

Yes. I've been terrible. I haven't been here in over 2 months! So crazy. But forgive me, I've been busy with life and the craziness of it all. Jonah had daily swim lessons. My birthday came and went (sorry no RAK this year). And I've just been tired.

But I'll try to update more. Does anyone even still read this?

*lol*

I made a layout a couple months ago... yes, ME. And it was DIGITAL too.

supplies: patterned papers, ribbon, tag, sentiment: "eieio" digital kit (Mindy Terasawa, http://www.designerdigitals.com); swirl brushes: "Skinny Mini Swirlies" (Mindy Terasawa, http://www.designer digitals.com); font: Century Gothic; Milky BW photo action: Mindy Bush (http://mindysphotoactions.blogspot.com)

I hope all of you out there are doing well. I do keep up with your blogs via Google Reader (love that thing!) but I'm always too much in a hurry to comment. Miss you all...

grrr..

2008-08-13T14:16:00.000-07:00

I want to change the header for my blog, but I can't figure out the size I need.

Can anyone help me? I seem to be falling a little short. I'll mess with it later.

what a surprise!

2008-08-12T17:29:00.000-07:00

I was down in the dumps last Friday as I was leaving the house for work. Jonah was crying his brains out when he saw me leave and I just didn't feel like working 3 nights in a row. Imagine my surprise when I found THIS waiting for me on my doorstep along with a TON of goodies (I have to take a pic to show you. The amount is ridiculous).

Yes, I've been published again. :)

This time 1 digital layout and a mini album. So freaking awesome.

I know I've been terrible with the blogging (and the scrapbooking... Surprisingly, I've been doing well with cardmaking!). It's hard to keep up with an 18 month old who runs all over the place, has daily swimming lessons... and did I mention, runs all over the place?

So, even though I'm not scrapbooking as much as I should, I'd still like to keep this blog open and keep you all (there are still some of you out there, right?) updated every once in a while.

But YAY, I've been published again. I'm super excited.

Hope everyone is having a great summer!

the most awesomest thing ever.

2008-07-18T21:14:00.000-07:00

I'm officially addicted to my iPhone.

It sounds so materialistic, I know, but I just can't help it. I really *heart* this thing.

Carl got it for me for Valentine's Day this year and since then I've thought it was 'pretty cool' but now, after downloading the software update, I'm just ADDICTED. So very cool.

And I've recently become addicted to Facebook...and now Twitter - I've had an old account, but I love how it links to Facebook AND I can now update right from my phone.

gotta love it.

So for those friends who miss me or want to see how I'm doing, sign up for a FB account or a Twitter acct and be my friend! :)

Happy 4th of July!

2008-07-04T15:28:00.000-07:00

The 7th month of the year... Where has the time gone?

Jonah is taking a well-deserved nap and I had some uninterrupted ME time just like everyone previously suggested. I also was overwhelmed with guilt because I have TONS of unused and unopened Studio Calico kits and tons of scrap supplies that haven't even touched.

It's time to use what I have. :)

AND I've been itching to sit down and scrap for quite a while now...

So in the meanwhile I've been making cards. Forgive me, I sometimes don't get a chance to take a picture or scan each one. I'm guessing my card count for the year is pretty awesome. I'll update it when I get a chance.

Here are a few cards I made a couple weeks ago for Nursing Assistant Appreciation Week:

AND, the fun doesn't stop there, party people. I SCRAPPED. Yes, that's right. I scrapped TWO whole layouts. And I'm posting one that I did a few months ago.

The next 2 layouts were inspired by Ali Edwards' Life Artist book. Love that book. I can read it over and over again...

patterned paper: making memories, paper salon
stickers, pen: american crafts
stamps: ck media, october afternoon
ink: StazOn, ColorBox

I was totally inspired a few months ago to create that layout - Jonah was having a good day and I wanted to document it. It's one of my most favorite recent layouts.

And then yesterday I finished up with this one:

cardstock: bazzill
patterned paper: love elsie, fontwerks, scenic route
foam letters: american crafts
pen: uniball signo

I felt like Ali was speaking to me when she scrapped her Christmas cards. I'm such a packrat and I can't bear to throw letters and cards away. I feel like the senders take so much time to send us their cards, I shouldn't hastily throw them in the garbage. So I took Ali's advice, grabbed the biggest square punch I own (in this case, 1 9/16th, wish I had a 2 inch punch) and went to town. Pretty happy with the result. :)

Ok, and my last layout... I just finished it RIGHT NOW. It's my favorite one. Pretty cheeky, but it was fun and I had fun making it with a Studio Calico kit I had never opened or used. Forgive me, I don't know which month it's from...

cardstock: Bazzill
patterned paper: scenic route, sei
journing block: college press
letter stickers: sassafrass lass
stamp: 7gypsies
bling, chipboard heart: heidi swapp
pen: american crafts

And I have to share the journaling because it cracks me up:

"pics: 9/25/07, journaling: 7/4/08
subject: Just so you know...

Dear Justin Timberlake,
You know, watching you perform in concert for what seems to be like the MILLIONTH time makes me wish for an 'NSYNC reunion...
But then again, watching you perform as a solo artist makes me realize it's not going to happen anytime soon.
Just so you know I know...
Sincerely,
JoAnn Valderama
Your #1 Fan"

I hope that brightened your day, everyone. Happy 4th of July! :)

i'm a scrapper... er, collector.

2008-06-30T21:43:00.000-07:00

I know. I know. I should use what I have...

But I can't help myself every once in a while with buying scrapping supplies. Listen to me. I haven't scrapped in over a month and I'm still buying stuff to fill my scraproom with more scrapCRAP.

It's an addiction, I tell you... An indulgence... The thing I splurge on.

And this time it was Stampin' Up stuff. I couldn't resist - my demonstrator was having a bit of a sale, so I had to stock up.

Listen to me - "had to". *lol*

But it's getting me thinking about being demonstrator/hobbyist in the future. We'll see...

---

And I'm going to get better with blogging... Or at least posting a pic when I blog. Here's Jonah enjoying dinner tonight. Wing Stop. :)

It was a treat tonight for the family... Diet begins tomorrow. :)

summer summer summertime...

2008-06-26T23:13:00.000-07:00

I can't believe summer is finally here. The weather is hot (most of the time) and the air is filled with smoke from the California fires. I really pray for everyone affected by the fires. I hope they put all of the fires out soon.

Life has been busy. So busy that there's still no time to scrapbook (believe me, I've tried)... But Carl and I have been taking a ton of pictures...

Having fun with the new fisheye lens:

My family's dog... You can't tell, but he's really sick right now. :(

Celebrating my mom's birthday with an ice cream cake from Cold Stone...

And the main reason why I've been so busy and tired:

He's WALKING. And I'm worn OUT.

must have kit.

2008-06-04T22:30:00.001-07:00

The fabulous people at Cocoa Daisy collaborated with my girls Mars and Brooke and they put together an AWESOME digital kit.

What are you waiting for? Go there NOW. :)

we're doomed.

2008-06-04T22:21:00.001-07:00

He's 16 months today and for the past 3 or 4 days he's getting better on his feet.

We're in trouble, aren't we? *lol*

time flies.

2008-05-19T16:41:00.000-07:00

Time just flies, doesn't it?

Between Corinne's wedding, our mini trip to Reno and then our trip to Disneyland in April, we've just been SO busy! Work has been a little chaotic and tiring. Jonah caught a stomach bug in DL (he's better now). And now we're just getting back to the swing of things.

I can't believe May is almost over.

Mother's Day was good for me. Went to breakfast with our families. Carl gave me an awesome present this year: this lens for our camera. We had rented it for our DL trip and I guess I had so much fun with it, he thought it would be nice to add to our fast growing lens collection.

Super fun lens to play with. :)

Anyway, hope everyone out there is doing well! Hope everyone is creating some awesome stuff - I'll be visiting your blogs soon to check!

happy belated NSD.

2008-05-04T14:10:00.000-07:00

It's my normally scheduled weekend to work so I knew that I wouldn't be able to participate in any scrapping activities for NSD.

But above all that, I couldn't participate because Jonah has been sick since Friday... Really sick. Like throwing-up-and-having-diarrhea-all-over-the-place sick.

My poor baby.

I don't know where he could have caught this bug from - probably somewhere in Disneyland - but I just hope he gets rid of it soon. I hate seeing him so miserable.

oh happy day

2008-04-22T22:35:00.001-07:00

Well, I'm back from Corinne's beautiful wedding. It was just so beautiful to be a part of her big day. *sigh* It makes me want to get married all over again - well, have a wedding day. *lol*

Then it was off to Reno for 3 days with my parents, Carl and Jonah. Carl had a class to take. And now we're home and I'm glad... and relieved... and oh-so tired.

Corinne and her hubby had an awesome photobooth at their wedding - super cool, btw... Aren't the pictures cute? Totally scrapbook worthy. Can't wait to get the creative juices flowing...

But it'll have to wait a while - We're headed to Disneyland next week! :)

a bunch of cards and cupcakes too.

2008-04-16T16:27:00.000-07:00

I may not be scrapping lately, but I have been making cards - it seems like the card creating is neverending though - from 2 good luck cards for co-workers who are moving on to bigger and brighter things... to 8 thank you cards for our clerks in honor Secretary's Day next week... to a few birthday cards... I didn't take pictures of them all, but I got A LOT done. Trust me. It was insane.

2 good luck cards
4 birthday cards
8 thank you cards
1 bachelorette party card
2 bridal shower cards
1 wedding card
_________
= 18 cards in 2 months

HOLY COW!

Here are a few I did get to take pictures of...

And in the midst of making all these cards, I somehow found time to bake some cupcakes last week (and since then, I might add, I've been ITCHING to bake more!). I have to restrain myself though - only 2 more days until Corinne's wedding and I have to fit in my bridesmaid's dress.

But don't these look good? Check out the recipe at my other blog...

feelin' a little crafty...

2008-04-11T15:58:00.000-07:00

I have a confession. I've been in a scrapping rut lately. I thought this loss of mojo would be temporary, but it wasn't.

I'm on vacation starting today so I'm hoping to get something done in the next week or so. My scrapbook room is in serious need of some TLC.

Got 2 layouts done though! Yippee!!!

supplies: patterned paper: Basic Grey, Tinkering Ink, Sassafrass Lass; letter stickers, pen - American Crafts; felt flower: prima; journaling card: College Press; stamping ink: ColorBox; other: ribbon

And in honor of my BFF Corinne who is getting married next Saturday!

supplies: cardstock: Bazzill; patterned paper; Love Elsie; ghost heart, bling: Heidi Swapp; label sticker; Fontwerks; rubons, chiboard letters, pen: American Crafts; stamping ink: StazOn

So, yup I did it... 2 layouts done...

Next on the checklist - ORGANIZATION. Ugh.

toot TOOT! it's been a while.

2008-03-10T19:52:00.000-07:00

I'm having difficulty keeping up with my scrapbooking blog. I just checked and I haven't posted since February 15! That's almost a month ago! I've probably lost of few buddies and readers - for that, I'm really sorry.

I will try to keep up from now on. And I will try and post at least twice a week. Even if I'm not scrapping, I'll pop in and say hello.

Just got back from my BFF's bachelorette party in VEGAS so I'm a little tired, sick, and just out of it. Had a GREAT time. More fun than I thought I would. Lots of partying and just hanging out with the girls. And I'm glad Corinne had a good time too! :)

While there, I checked my email and found out Scrapbook Trends wants to publish one of my mini books and a digi layout for their upcoming Vacation idea book! So exciting! First 1 layout in their wedding idea book last year and now a layout and a mini album. I'm THRILLED! :) toot TOOT for me!

So hopefully these toots will get me to scrap more and motivate me to get published more too. :) Mojo, come out come out wherever you are! :)

Jonah's 1st Year...

2008-02-15T19:14:00.000-08:00

I made this slideshow to show off at Jonah's birthday party...

Since Corinne reminded me, I thought I'd share it with you all... Enjoy!

guess who's 1...

2008-02-15T18:11:00.001-08:00

I am now officially the mother of an active, witty, 1 year old.

We celebrated his birthday with our family and friends this past Sunday the 10th. Over 100 people - I'm still recovering.

Just wanted to pop in and share one of our favorite pics of him on his special day... A pic taken by his Ninang Corinne. :)

Yeah, and do you SEE that red icing? The bakery must have used an awful amount (and possibly toxic amount - j/k!) of red food dye. Poor Jonah and I were pink for DAYS afterward.

Anyway, wanted to let you all that I'm alive. Haven't scrapped in a while because I was busy planning the party and I'm still recovering. Once I catch my breath I'll post layouts soon. :)

LMAO

2008-02-05T16:16:00.000-08:00

This is just an example of how we shouldn't take ourselves too seriously. :)

brought to you by the number 3...

2008-01-24T10:47:00.000-08:00

I had some time to work on some layouts so I finished 3. :)

This one makes me laugh because Jonah was only just shy of 4 weeks old and we were already tormenting him with pictures. *lol* And we were battling the cradle cap crap so his complexion was all weird at the time...
supplies: patterned paper: Kristina Contes Collection by Scrap In Style TV; letter stickers: Chatterbox; felt letters: American Crafts; transparency overlay: Hambly Studios; tag: College Press; pen: American Crafts; stamping ink: StazOn; other: staples

I created this layout after finding an old pic from my 29th birthday... I was 4 months pregnant at the time...
supplies: patterned paper: October Afternoon, Autumn Leaves; letters: American Crafts; felt flowers: Prima; journaling tag: College Press; stamping ink: ColorBox; pen: American Crafts; other: ribbon

And this is me with Jonah on my 30th birthday...one year later...
supplies: patterned paper: October Afternoon; felt letters: Creative Cafe; price tag: Creative Imaginations; stamping ink: ColorBox; other: mini brads, string, ribbon

So I guess I could say I've been pretty productive. My goal for the year is to complete 100 layouts. 3 down, 97 to go... Haven't set a goal for cards and other projects yet... But I guess that will come in time. :)

----

Jonah's birthday is in less than 2 weeks and his party is coming up so I don't know how much I can scrap between now and then. I'm truly amazed at how fast time flies!

At almost 12 months he loves:

his sign language videos (he can sign "milk"!)
cruising around
climbing up the stairs
climbing off the couch
puffs
lots of time with Mommy and Daddy
his snoedel

-----

Anyway, have a good rest of the weekend, everyone! :)

my moment finally arrived.

2008-01-18T22:22:00.000-08:00

The other day a package arrived in the mail with my name on it. At first I was a little confused, but I was pleasantly surprised to find out that it was my goodie box from my very first pub!

My very first published layout is on page 67. :)

Thank you Scrapbook Trends!

Hope everyone has a wonderful holiday weekend. :)

i'm too nice i guess.

2008-01-16T22:54:00.000-08:00

Darn. I had this awesome plan to put Jonah to bed at his normal bedtime, forgo watching American Idol and being amused, and actually sit down and SCRAP.

Well, my awesome plan fizzled after getting a phone call from a friend and despite my "I gotta go now"s I was on the phone for an hour and a half and got one page done.

And now I'm too tired to scan it and share with you all.

*sigh* I was hoping to get at least 3 done tonight. Oh well...

representin' my peeps...

2008-01-09T21:52:00.000-08:00

This makes me really proud. Gotta love Ellen. :)

hello mojo.

2007-12-27T22:07:00.000-08:00

I don't know what's coming over me. Today I had the urge to clean... Well, I shouldn't say CLEAN since all I did was tidy up the house. It started with the kitchen, then the dining room... And then it led me to the scraproom/office.

And I stared at all the unopened kits I have from the past 3 months: Studio Calico, A Million Memories, Label Tulip - all of them just staring at me in the face, chanting: "Use me. Use me. Use me."

And I did.

And it felt good.

I finally got around to scanning a layout I did last month...

supplies: patterned paper: Basic grey, Fancy Pants, Scenic Route; chipboard: Scenic Route; stamping ink: ColorBox; journaling tag: My Mind's Eye; pen: Uniball Signo

The picture was taken at a family member's wedding in September... Carl took it. I love the photo. It's totally Jonah. :)

And tonight I sat down and created this:

supplies: cardstock: Bazzill; patterned paper: Basic Grey, 7gypsies; notepaper: Making Memories; acrylic tree: MME; pen, letter stickers: American Crafts; stamping ink: StazOn

I'm getting closer to making my 100 layouts this year goal.... 3 more and I'm there! Unfortunately I won't have the time to scrap between tonight and Dec. 31st... I work all weekend and I have a huge party on New Year's Eve...

But who knows... I might find a layout I'd created and never posted... Hmmm...

Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas! Here comes 2008! :)

happy holidays. :)

2007-12-22T23:48:00.000-08:00

hi all...

I've almost found my mojo and we'll be back to our regularly scheduled program shortly.

Chasing a 10 1/2 month old all day gets exhausting and when it comes to "me" time when he falls asleep at night, I just want to hit the bed too!

Disneyland was awesome. So much fun... Here are a couple of our favorite pics:

It's a Small World was his first and favorite ride. He sat on my lap the whole time and held on to the bar in front of him. So cute!

Can't you tell he's at the Happiest Place on Earth???

The castle at night... (hubby took this pic...)

It's been non-stop busy since we've been back! AND the day we got back we went to Santa's Tree Farm to cut down our tree. :)

Happy Holidays, everyone! :)

hola.

2007-12-08T08:05:00.000-08:00

Just thought I'd post a little bit... Even though I'm running low on mojo I'm sure some of you want to know what I've been up to. (at least I think you do! *lol*)... Since Thanksgiving, it's been pretty busy!

We leave for Disneyland tomorrow! So excited!

Still don't have a Christmas tree up - I have to add that to my to-do list when we get back from Disneyland.

I've been good with the Christmas shopping and I'm almost done with gift buying... Hope I can find more things while I'm out of town. :)

Jonah is getting bigger and he's way more active. He's got his first couple of teeth in but lucky for us he's still sleeping through the night!

My mom is doing great - thank you all for your thoughts and prayers!

Here are 2 layouts I never posted in my blog last month. My bad, I totally forgot... That brings my November count up AND I only need 5 more layouts for the rest of the year! Yay! :)

I created these for my November CT assignment at K-Joi Studios using Joanna Hope's Monster Mash kit and my BFF's pics since I didn't have any Halloween pics this year.

Hope everyone is doing well! I'm sure I'll have plenty of Disneyland pics to share when I get back! :) Have a great weekend!

come out, come out, wherever you are.

2007-11-29T21:45:00.000-08:00

Has anyone seen my mojo? I seem to have lost it.

*sigh* I swear I don't know why I've been in this scrapping funk lately - ever since we came back from Vegas. It's terrible. I sit at my desk and I can't seem to think straight. Paper just looks like paper to me. My stack of photos are overwhelming. My scraproom is an utter disaster area.... It's no wonder I'm not inspired.

I think it's because the holidays are on and I'm stressing out about everything - buying Christmas gifts, getting a tree and decorating, Disneyland in a little over a week...Ack! I'm freaking out!

Only 7 more layouts to do and I'll hit the 100 mark for the year. It's probably the most I've scrapped - ever... I really need to get my butt in gear.

Someone help me!

update

2007-11-24T10:44:00.000-08:00

I've been MIA lately - and I'm sorry... With the hustle and bustle of the Thanksgiving holidays, life has been hectic and crazy.

My mom suffered a minor (thank God) stroke on the 15th and was in the hospital for a couple of days last weekend... Needless to say, she's better now and I couldn't be more grateful. We really do have a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving.

Work has been a little busy to say the least. We've been really short staffed and we incorporated a new computer charting system so it's been really busy...

Haven't worked on any scrapbook layouts in a while. With my mom and her stroke, work and it's craziness, Jonah and his cold and teething and fussiness - I just haven't had time. I miss it though.

Yesterday I went to the "So You Think You Can Dance" concert in Oakland with my SIL. Super fun. Her bf gave her tickets for her birthday and I was lucky enough that she asked me to go with her. Thanks Ian and Claire! :)

Here's my favorite routine from the tv show... so glad they performed it in concert!

We didn't celebrate Thanksgiving, to let my mom rest and also because Jonah is still sick AND I had to work... But tonight we're doing a shindig here at our house. My first time cooking a turkey. Wish me luck!

Oh and for those who are interested - I've been really feeling domestic lately and started a cooking blog: Cooking Girl Jo - Check it out!

Have a great weekend!

tag. i'm it.

2007-11-14T20:49:00.000-08:00

Totally didn't realize my BFF tagged me a while back. Finally am able to sit and type right now! Thanks Rinne! :)

I've been tagged (thanks to Chenguna!):

5 things I was doing 10 years ago (November 1997):
1. My first quarter as a Nursing Student.
2. working at my first job - at a video store!
3. getting to know new friends in my nursing class.
4. enjoying my first cell phone.
5. 2 years dating Carl. :)

5 things on my to do list today: (well, since it's late at night... I'll apply this for tomorrow.)
1. head to Target or Best Buy to pick up the new DVD releases this week - Shrek 3 and Oceans 13!
2. cook dinner.
3. scrap.
4. take care of Jonah - I think he's coming down with a cold. :(
5. clean.

5 snacks I enjoy:
1. Peanut Butter/Chocolate Chex mix.
2. chocolate.
3. trail mix.
4. mocha almond fudge ice cream.
5. chocolate.

5 songs I know the lyrics to:
1. JT's Sexy Back.
2. any 'NSYNC song.
3. MJ's Thriller
4. Irene Cara's What a Feeling
5. MC Hammer's U Can't Touch This

5 of my bad habits:
1. Procrastinating.
2. Pack rat
3. shit talker. *lol*
4. Being lazy.
5. buying things and not using them.

5 things I'd do if I were a millionaire:
1. Buy a house.
2. By a house for my family and Carl's family.
3. Pay off our bills.
4. travel.
5. quit my job.

5 things I will never wear again:
1. Skinny jeans.
2. leggings.
3. anything that shows off my stomach.
4. short shorts.
5. a size 6 or less. *sigh*

5 of my favorite toys:
1. Camera.
2. my MacBook Pro.
3. TiVo
4. Cropodile
5. Cricut

NOW I tag these people to answer the same:

Kim
Cathy
Gabrielle
Brooke
Mars
Laurie

Don't know if anybody will do it, oh well! :)

i'm a slacker.

2007-11-09T17:54:00.000-08:00

I got back from Vegas last week and I not only lost some money, but I lost a little scrapping mojo too. *lol* I haven't touched my scrapdesk in a couple weeks and the only thing I'm remotely tempted to work on are digi layouts.

Who would have thought that I would become a digi girl?

Got another DT rejection email today - funny because I don't even remember applying for this one. *lol* I guess that's a good sign.

I've been overwhelmed with my supply stash - I sub to like 3 kits and since I haven't been scrapping much lately, the stuff is just piling and piling up in my scrap room. Ugh, I hate being unproductive.

Hopefully the mojo comes back and I can wow you all with more dazzling and fresh LOs. :)

Til then, have a great weekend!

Happy Digital Scrapbooking Day!

2007-11-03T12:35:00.000-07:00

There are a bunch of fun activities over at K-Joi - check them out when you get a chance!

And here's a link to some fun freebies! :)

back from Vegas.

2007-11-01T20:58:00.001-07:00

Spent the weekend (Saturday-Tuesday) with Carl, his parents and Jonah in Vegas. Had a great time. Didn't win any money, but got a little scrapping done. *lol* We stayed at his family's house and we weren't on the Strip very much so we had a lot of chill time at home. :)

Got a couple of digi LOs done:

supplies: patterned papers, staples, jelly buttons: Little Bit O Spunk mini kit by Gina Cabrera (Digital Design Essentials); swirl brushes: Skinny Mini Swirlies by Mindy Terasawa (Designer Digitals); "Happiness" ingredients brush by Andrea Victoria (ad challenge 07/01/07 freebie, Designer Digitals); fonts: Century Gothic, Susie's Hand

supplies: paper, hibiscus stamps, journaling stamp, alpha: Gina Cabrera (Digital Design Essentials); fonts: Century Gothic, Susie's Hand

I've really been getting into the digital scrapbooking lately and I'm losing the mojo for the paper scrapping. Don't get me wrong - I still have love for paper and adhesive, but I just love how digi is so easy and no cleanup required! *lol*

I'll probably work on more paper LOs this weekend, but for now I'll continue with the digi - at least for little bit while I've got the steam. :)

Happy weekend, y'all! :)

haven't done one in a while...

2007-10-24T21:42:00.000-07:00

I scrapped a picture from my wedding... :)

She's one of my good friends yet we don't talk nearly as often as we both would like. Still, she's one of the greatest people I know. She just rocks... :)

Created this LO for one of my assigned 2 layouts for K-Joi... I thought this kit would be perfect to scrap some more wedding photos! :)

supplies:
Digital Kit (patterned papers, embellishments): "Soft Vintage Garden" by Jolanda Meursen (http://www.kjoistudios.com)
overlay: Overly Template Swirl-4 by Jolanda Meursen (http://www.kjoistudios.com)

Photography credit: Sharon Dawson (http://www.dawsonstudios.com)

Also used a Color Wonder PSE Action by Mindy Bush. :)

And I just finished another...

A rare LO about my mom... I don't know why I don't scrap more layouts of us... I'm lacking pictures? I'm not sure. I need to do more...

supplies:
Digital Kit: "Soft Vintage Garden" by Jolanda Meursen (http://www.kjoistudios.com)
fonts: Century Gothic, Susie's Hand, Plastique

photography credit: Sharon Dawson (http://www.dawsonstudios.com)

TFL!

what's meant to be...

2007-10-24T08:41:00.000-07:00

Well I guess it isn't meant to be - me being a DT... Applied for one this month and got the rejection email today. With each rejection I'm getting better about it and I know my time will come soon... But lately I've been starting to re-evaluate if I even want to apply to various DTs anymore... With all the hype around Creating Keepsakes and Kristina Contes and HOF, it made me ask myself if it's really worth it to even put my name out there...

Not saying that I would, but what if my name became a household name someday like Elise, Becky, Ali, Donna, or Cathy Z.? Do I really want my personal business out there? Like when people started putting 2 and 2 together when Elsie stopped posting pics of herself and her husband in her blog and stopped creating LOs about him and their marriage, it made people wonder...and those wondering people did some research and more snooping and discovered she went through a divorce and announced it on 2Peas (and from what I heard, found the legal documents online and posted them too)... How wrong is that?!

Do I really want that? No way. I already lack privacy because I'm a registered nurse. Any former patient of mine can look me up on the board of registered nursing website. How safe do I feel?

So yeah, with the rejection email, I'm actually ok for once. I might retire from applying to more DTs for a while, at least until the holidays are over... I'm also in this weird funk where I don't even *feel* like scrapping lately. Maybe a little loss of mojo? I don't know...

I'm also feeling awesome about the rejection too - I really don't want to be defined by deadlines and minimum requirements for layouts and messageboard posts - I want to create stuff and make stuff and for now, I want to make them all for me... :)

3 more...

2007-10-19T00:15:00.000-07:00

I guess you could say I was on a roll this week... Which is good - at least I feel productive, having been off since last Thursday night. Well, technically, I wasn't off since then - I had to take 2 classes this week that were mandatory for work...

So I have 4 more shifts of work before I go on vacation to Vegas in a little over a week. Excited? A little bit. I just need a little getaway. :)

supplies: patterned paper, ribbon, pen: American Crafts; die cut letters: "Printing Press"; font cartridge for Cricut; stamping ink: Color Box Chalk Ink

First time using the Printing Press Cricut cartridge. Had a lot of fun!

supplies: patterned paper: Kristina Contes paper collection at SIStv.com; transparency overlay: Hambly; felt letters, flowers, brads: American Crafts; tab punch: McGill; stamping ink: Color Box Chalk Ink, StazOn; Dymo Labeler

And it was a rare 8.5x11 layout. Super proud of myself! :)

supplies: patterned paper: Basic Grey, Tinkering Ink; transparency overlay, rub ons: Hambly; label sticker: Fontwerks; pen: American Crafts; chipboard letter: Lil Davis Desings; chipboard number: Heidi Swapp; stamping ink: Color Box Chalk Ink, StazOn

Had a lot of fun creating that one... the "V" is for our last name... but I'm thinking it could stand for "version" in a future layout... Might have to think about that one. :)

Have a great weekend, everyone! I'll be spending it working for 3 nights and being tired. Ugh.

jonah layouts...

2007-10-17T23:23:00.001-07:00

I went to a friend's baby shower this past Saturday and it got me in the mood to scrapbook more of Jonah's pictures - don't want to get behind!

So I was on a roll with the layouts... I had been working on a couple of them for a bit (sometimes I walk away from my desk when I feel uninspired) and finally finished them up...

My favorite is the first one here:

supplies: patterned paper, foam letters, chipboard shapes: American Crafts; font: CK Jot; stamping ink: Chalk Ink by ColorBox, StazOn

I like it because it's pretty much displaying the story of Jonah's first night of sleep in his crib... I remember being so happy that he did it, but I was sad because I knew he was growing up. So bittersweet.

Then I worked on a few more LOs...
supplies: pp, chipboard, rub ons, foam letters: AC; pen: uniball signo; rub on stitching:L Daisy D's

supplies: cardstock: Bazzill; pp: Cloud 9 Design; ribbon: Scrapworks; transparency: Hambly; font: 2Peas Tiny Tadpole; rub on letters: American Crafts; stamping ink: Chalk ink by ColorBox

supplies: cardstock: Bazzill; patterned paper: Basic Grey, Prima; rub on stitching: Daisy D's;
fabric tag: Scrapworks; stamping ink: Chalk Ink by ColorBox; letter rub ons: American Crafts;
stamp: 7gypsies; Dymo labeler; other: tag, date sticker; photography credit: Corinne

And then I made this card today:
supplies: patterned paper, rub ons, pen: American crafts; stamp: 7gypsies

Remember that baby shower I metioned earlier in this post? Yeah, well, the baby wasn't due until around Thanksgiving. On Monday (mind you, TWO days after the baby shower) we get a picture text message - our friends had the baby! So exciting and surprising and I know only TOO WELL what it feels like to deliver early and feeling unprepared (Jonah was born 2 weeks early and the day after my baby shower!). I made the card for our friends to let them know we're here for them - for a hot meal delivery or even advice givers... We hope all is well with them...

Hump day is over - have a great rest of the week!

one.

2007-10-14T16:58:00.000-07:00

Been a slow week with producing LOs... I've been super tired lately when night comes around and when Jonah's asleep so I haven't been exactly motivated to work on LOs. bummer.

Got a digital one done, though:

supplies: patterned paper, die cuts, word art by Lynn Grieveson (Hugs kit, www.designerdigitals.com); doodles by Jackie Eckles (Whimsicality Series #1 Element pack, www.littledreamerdesigns.com)

I did it just because... Not for my CT work or anything. The K-Joi Studios site is down and I didn't download my assigned kit this month so I'm behind. *sigh*

I've scrapbooked these pics before, but I love them so much that I could make a million LOs using them. *lol*

Have a great week, everyone!

i've conquered my everest.

2007-10-09T17:48:00.000-07:00

*lol* Well, sort of.

I had been struggling with Photoshop Actions for a while and I finally figured them out! I had forgotten I had downloaded a few to play with a few months ago and I was disappointed that I couldn't get them to work. But finally - FINALLY - I figured it out. :)
http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif
Here's what I figured out...

I used the Image Transfer Action from Something Blue Studios for that one...

And used the Antique Paper Action from Little Dreamer Designs for this one:

Yay! Now I'm officially addicted. *lol*

a handful of cards...

2007-10-05T11:03:00.000-07:00

Finally got a chance to take pictures of my latest card creations... Here they are...

Got this idea from Cynthia - I SO love the Cricut "New Arrival" cartridge! :)

Have a great weekend everyone!

productive... well sort of...

2007-10-04T23:49:00.000-07:00

I've been in a good mood to scrap these past few days, but I've really been unhappy with what I've been coming up with. *sigh*... I get in these ruts sometimes. The best thing for me is to just push through it and get past the slump...

This first LO is a LO I did a while back and used it for a DT submission... I really liked it because it's kind of funky yet clean... And I like the pictures I used: the one on the left was 1 week before Jonah was born and the on the right was the day before (at my baby shower)... Brought back memories when I created this one...

supplies: Daisy D's, American Crafts, chipboard, ribbon

This next LO is one I just finished tonight. It's my interpretation of the 2nd dare in the We Dare You book: "Safe Place." I couldn't think of just one place so I scrapbooked about the fact that I feel safe any place far and away from work. *lol*

supplies: My Mind's Eye, Scenic Route, Art Warehouse, Century Gothic Font

And finally... This is a LO I did a couple days ago... Love this picture but I didn't know what to do with it... Eh... Used some old stuff in my stash: the KI monograms! Yippee. :)
supplies: Sassafrass Lass, Fancy Pants, KI Memories, Hambly, American Crafts

Sent in another DT submission this evening... Keep your fingers crossed and say a little extra prayer for me, will ya? :)

Have a great weekend everyone! :)

another one bites the dust...

2007-10-03T15:18:00.000-07:00

Tried out for another DT and well, no surprise here, I didn't make it.

Today, I'm actually ok with it... Tomorrow might be another story.

I don't know... Rejection always leads me to question my talent and ability. It makes me reflect on why I scrapbook... And it always makes me wonder if I'm sending in my very best stuff - like, I may think it's my best, but personal style is so subjective...

But I'm ok this time... Really, I am. :)

fall tv lineup

2007-09-30T21:49:00.000-07:00

While surfing around my buddies blogs I was beginning to notice lists of what they're watching this fall... So in the same tradition, I'll list mine...

Sundays
- don't know yet. *lol*

Mondays
- Dancing with the Stars
- Heroes
- The Hills

Tuesdays
- Jon & Kate plus 8
- Dancing with the Stars

Wednesdays
- Kitchen Nightmares

Thursdays
- Survivor

Fridays
- none

Saturdays
- SNL

Let me just say, thank goodness for TiVo... I don't even know what shows are on what days half the time! *lol* Totally looking forward to the Top Chef finale this week... The Rock of Love Reunion next Sunday... And Project Runway coming up!

Bummed that Lost back until January! I need to know what happens!

testing... 1...2...3...

2007-09-27T11:05:00.000-07:00

Scrap in Style TV has this cool new function where they give you a cool script code so you can place it in your blog as a widget. The demo looked cool. I'm going to try it out right here...

Created a few little cards in the past couple of days... Used a bunch of my scraps so that made me super happy. :)

Finally got my "We Dare You" layout done - based on the first dare of the book. Super simple, but I'm really happy with the way it turned out! :)

Happy Thursday! I have to work tonight so I don't know when I can get more scrapping done! :)

scrapping on the brain...

2007-09-26T23:02:00.000-07:00

Lately I've had scrapbooking on the brain and I've been itching to work on a couple layouts... Unfortunately, Jonah's daily schedule is changing - he's taking less naps and the ones he DOES take are shorter. Oh well...

I've been working on a couple of challenges and got one done tonight:

This one was for HMITM #52: Use 30 scraps. Super challenging but it was a lot of fun working with old scraps I have lying around all over my scrap room. *lol*

supply list:
Quickutz Stiletto font
Cricut Base Camp font
Bazzill cardstock
Patterned Papers: Tres Jolie, Cherry Arte, Jenni Bowlin, 7gypsies, Lil Davis Designs, Basic Grey, Prima, Daisy D's, Bo Bunny, Heidi Grace, Scenic Route, Crate Paper, A2Z Essentials

The other day I also finished my second digi LO for K-Joi Studios:

Really simple LO I did using the Cafe Pigalle kit by Dragons Lair Designs. Didn't come out the way I wanted, but I'm happy with it. :)

And and this is super awesome: My Love Story matchbook is LOTD at AMM. Yippee! :)

Have a great rest of the week! :)

one more!

2007-09-25T12:12:00.001-07:00

I forgot to share my little 4x4 chipboard book I made about our son...

Click on the picture to see more...

I made this the other night using some scraps I had from KI Memories It's a Boy line. Also used some American Crafts rub ons, some pre-printed twill, lots of ribbons and some tags...

Probably one of my favorite book so far! TFL! :)

lots of stuff to share!

2007-09-25T11:48:00.000-07:00

I had worked on a few projects these past few weeks and now I can finally share them! I wasn't sure if I was going to use them for DT submissions, but since the deadlines have already passed I can now share with all of you! :)

The following LOs and card are things I created for Suzy's store Picture Me Perfect for guest designer for September. Laurie sure created some really challenging assignments! :)
Assignment: Use the AC Thickers and 1 PP and 2 CS to create a LO... I added more AC goodies, Heidi Swapp chipboard letters, ribbon, and Hambly journaling block rub on. :)

Assignment: use the Thickers and create a card too! So I created a card using more American Crafts stuff and also cut the little feet using my Cricut (love that thing!)

Assignment: Use the Luxe Jotters... I was kind of stuck with this so I created a simple wedding LO because I wanted the picture to be the main focus instead of a ton of embellies. :) Used more Luxe paper and cut more letters with the Cricut. :)

And the last assignment was to create a LO that incorporated a house as a design element (click on the pic for more details). This was a little tough for me, but I had fun. The door is on hinges so inside the door is our address, on the sale sign are the details of our house and the chimney pulls to reveal journaling. This took a while to create but it SOOO worth it and super fun. :) Used Daisy D's paper, Heidi Swapp chipboard, Paper Salon ink, and other random goodness. :)

And then I created these last 2 LOs a while ago but never posted until today. :) Wasn't sure if I'd use them in DT entries or not!
supplies: Piggy Tales, Paper Salon ink, button, pre-printed twill

Click on the pic for more... But I created this LO to show the progression of my ever growing tummy (hence the title. *lol*) Used A Million Memories' August kit and had a great time! I might change up the journaling block (I don't like how it's smashed in there and it's crooked), but for now I'll leave it as is... One of my favorite LOs I've done in a while...

This book came in the mail the other day and I can't put it down! I never really participated in the Effer Dares before because I only got back into scrapbooking regularly recently and I couldn't find time to participate.

But this book is so awesome - it's pretty much having all the dares at your fingertips and you don't even need an internet connection to get started!

Corinne and I are going to each dare weekly and post our progress here... She already got the first one done - I need to get started! *lol*

Have a great week everyone! :)

more altered stuff...

2007-09-20T16:30:00.000-07:00

I've always wondered - do cards count as altered projects? Sometimes when I apply to DTs they want x amount of layouts and at least one altered project - defined as something that is not a page. Things that make you go hmmm... :)

Created a couple more cards (I really need to use up the scraps!) and a little matchbook inspired by Cathy (yes, Corinne, the matchbook you made for Jonah inspired me too!) - I've discovered that it's an awesome way to use up those scraps as well!

Click on the pic to see what's inside the little matchbook...
I really liked the "Brighton" line by Scenic Route (I used it for the "Love U" card and the matchbook)... I think I had picked it up a couple years ago and had it laying in my stash for a while - it's so bright and fun and totally atypical for using in those "love" themed projects! I'm so bummed I didn't pick up more of it when I had a chance.

I made the "Congrats" card on behalf of my co-workers for another co-worker who's getting married next Saturday... I guess that's what happens when your whole unit knows you as the "creative one who scrapbooks and makes cards" - you get volunteered to do things like this. I usually don't mind - it's a great way of using my stash up (especially all those little Prima flowers that sounded like a good idea when I bought a million of them in every color! *lol*)

altered stuff...

2007-09-19T23:32:00.000-07:00

I always feel like my altered stuff is my downfall - I'm not nearly as creative as I'd like to be and I find that it really stretches my creativity when I actually DO sit down and take the time to work on these...

I love mini books though - there's just something about being able to hold so many memories in just the palm of your hand.

And with a few DT deadlines coming up, I've been feverishly working on a few minibooks and other altered projects...

Click on the pics for more...

I'm getting better with photographing my stuff... Still not as awesome as I'd like to be, but Picasa sure does wonders. :)

been scrapping...

2007-09-18T22:06:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not, I've actually been scrapping lately... Haven't posted anything here recently because I'm saving them for some DT entries that end at the end of this month and I'm not sure which ones to use...

But I do have a couple to share:

Love this one because I used a picture of when Jonah was so small and cuddly. Now he's bigger and all over the place. *lol* I miss him when he was little. :(

supplies: patterned paper: Heidi Grace, Scenic Route; transparency overlay: Hambly Studios; vinyl letter stickers: American Crafts; other: ribbon

And I still find BamPOP super challenging for me, but I forced myself to make it work. *lol* Used the SOML April kit and some other stuff...

supplies: cardstock: Bazzill; patterned paper: BamPOP; foam letters: American Crafts; ghost clock: Heidi Swapp; other: ribbon

-----

So yeah, I've got some LOs and cards that I've done, but I'm keeping them in my back pocket before I show them off... I'm still unsure whether or not I'm going to use them in my entries or not, but for now I'll keep them safe and unpublished (in an internet sense...) Sometimes I feel that my LOs are really strong, but my altered project is the one that is my downfall most of the time. Then again, there's a lot of competition out there - I might not even be a contender. Who knows?

Yesterday, I scrapped with my good friend from work who's *almost* as into scrapping as I am. She's up there, but she's not CRAZY like me. *lol* It was really fun - had a ton of laughs as she pulled out random pieces of patterned paper in her stash and we were like, "What were you thinking?!" Had to be there.

What was even more awesome about scrapping yesterday was that we got to call into work for a conference call, put the phone on speakerphone so we both could listen AND put it on mute so we could scrapbook and talk smack.

Good times...

And productive too... Awesome combination. :)

TGIF!

2007-09-14T15:24:00.000-07:00

Totally NSBR but I was in the mood to post about randomness...

With all the hype surrounding the VMAs this weekend I thought I'd post this...

Britney at the VMAs 9.9.99 (oh and my beloved 'NSYNC too! *lol*)

And Britney exactly 8 years later...

What a difference 8 years makes... So sad. :(

yay! a digi!

2007-09-12T21:00:00.000-07:00

I don't know why I've been neglecting the digital stuff lately... I think I've been really inspired by the traditional stuff moreso? Hmmm... I don't know.

Well, it's September and I need to create 2 layouts for K-Joi Studios for my CT commitment and I hadn't even started as of the weekend... Finally I worked on something and came up with this:

Simple and fun... Just like me. *lol*

Digital kit: Cafe Pigalle Page kit by Dragons Lair Designs (background papers, paper clip, brads, ribbon) at http://www.kjoistudios.com
font: Daily Birdie by Audrey Neal at http://www.oscraps.com
alpha: Surfer Dude Kit alpha by Gina Cabrera at http://www.digitaldesignessentials.com

RAK winner!

2007-09-11T09:12:00.000-07:00

First off, I'd like to thank everyone who wished me a happy birthday last week and played along with my RAK drawing. :)

My hubby randomly picked a winner this AM and it is:

Cathy!

Yay! Cathy - email me your snail mail addy and I'll have your goodies in the mail by the end of the week!

Again, thanks to everyone for playing along. Stay tuned I may RAK more stuff off in the near future! :)

k.joi grand opening events!

2007-09-07T09:57:00.001-07:00

K.Joi Studios is having their grand opening event weekend! :) I won't be able to participate in any of the activities since I'm working all weekend long but be sure to stop by and say hello on the messageboard or even take a look around and shop!

i rock. :)

2007-09-06T23:35:00.000-07:00

So I'm trying to catch up with all my buddies' blogs before I do my 3 in a row weekend starting tomorrow. Ugh.

And my Filipina pal Mia tagged me:

Yup, it's the second time, but I thought I'd post it here again. :) Because, well, I ROCK. *lol*

And now I tag... hmmm... everyone who reads this post. :)

MWAAAAHHAAAAHAAA...

Another toot for me!

2007-09-05T23:25:00.001-07:00

A couple of weeks ago my very favorite LSS in the whole wide world asked me to be Featured Scrapper of the month for September. :) What a way to celebrate my birthday month, huh?

Check me out here: TA DA! :)

So awesome. I'm super excited... Laurie gave me a list of assignments to do by the end of the month so that should keep me busy for a while... Got to working on a few of them tonight. I'll scan and post them when I get a chance.

Thanks so much for the opportunity - Suzy, Laurie and the rest of Picture Me Perfect! Hope I don't let you down! :)

3 layouts...Wii!!! :)

2007-09-05T17:22:00.001-07:00

I guess, with my birthday celebrations I forgot to post my newest layouts last week. :)

supplies: SOML April kit: Bazzill, Crate Paper, American Crafts, stars; Fontwerks stamp, Ranger stamping ink

supplies: Label Tulip August kit: Scenic Route, Prima, ribbon; Fontwerks rubons, Hambly overlay transparency, American Crafts

supplies: AMM August Kit: 7gypsies, Autumn Leaves, Prima, lace; Hambly, American Crafts

AND this layout was Layout of the Day at AMM on 9/1/07 - I just found out 2 nights ago. :)

So far my birthday week has been pretty awesome... Got a lot of cool gifts, including a new iPod from the hubby, Mario Party 8 and Carnival Games for the Wii... Super fun...

I'm thinking of hosting a Wii party. There are eVites with Wii themed invitations. :)

Now THAT would be a cool scrapbook LO. :)

Have a great rest of the week!

Happy Birthday to ME! :)

2007-09-04T14:51:00.000-07:00

30 today and still feel young at heart...

My hubby asked me today if I feel 30... Well, how does someone FEEL a number, right? I mean, if you start thinking about my creaking joints, the stretch marks, the 20lbs I've gained since high school, the fact I've been a nurse for 7 years, a wife for 3, and a mommy of 7 months - then yeah, I feel old. hahaha...

But I'm young and feel young... I love drowning myself in creativity aka scrapbooking... Getting ink on my hands and adhesive on my fingers. I love the smell of chocolate chip cookies baking in the oven... I love playing video games with the hubby... I love Disneyland and vow to take my son there every year since I missed out when I was a kid. I love smell of fresh cut grass in the spring. Hello Kitty and Sanrio things make me smile. :)

So despite the fact that I am entering a whole new decade, I'm welcoming it with open arms. :) One of my best friends wrote in my birthday card: "30 is the new 20, you know..."

Yup, I know... But shhh... don't tell anyone. :)

----

In honor of my birthday, I've got a little bit of a RAK to give... I don't have a pic right now, I'm sorry! (A few weeks ago I won an Around the Block drawing that included 2 4x4 mini albums, colored pencils and paper... I'll most likely give this away unless I think of something cooler. :)

RAK rules:

Leave a comment on this post by Sunday, September 9 at Midnight PST... Tell me if you're a first time visitor or if you've been lurking *wink*... And tell me about your favorite birthday memory. :)

I'll draw a winner on Monday and post by Tuesday the 11th. :)

Can't wait to see your posts! :)

I'm a LUCKY one. :)

2007-08-31T14:15:00.001-07:00

A few months ago I was uploading layouts to the Scrapbook.com's site and they had a Lucky 7 contest going on... 7 grand prize winners ($700 gift certificates to the site... 7 - one for each different category) and 70 honorable mentions - 10 each for each category ($70 gift certificate to the store).

So I uploaded and completely forgot about it... I rarely visit sb.com because, well, I've got a lot of scrap sites I visit already... but when I do visit, I tend to do it in huge waves.

A few weeks ago I got an email saying I was one of the HONORABLE MENTIONS! Scroll down - 8 rows down, right side. :)

I couldn't announce until they made their official announcement today but YAY! My first contest and I won a prize...Now I'm addicted to entering contests... Hmmm... Maybe HOF or MMM is in my future next year? *lol*

Yeah, right. :)

checking in...

2007-08-29T22:48:00.000-07:00

i'm behind with my daily cards... between working all weekend, trying to catch up with sleep, going to a meeting at work, getting ready for my 30th bday celebration, renewing my license at the dmv, i'm EXAHUSTED. i tried to sit and scrap tonight, but i'm so sleepy.

i'll post something cool and scrapworthy soon. i promise.

now to catch up with the zzzz's... :)