The {Scrappy} Girl Next Door

Color in the Craft Room

2012-01-20T18:25:00.000-08:00

I've had fun making a few updates in my craft room this week. I used to have an apple green craft room and realized recently how much I actually missed the color green. I decided to add a punch of color to the room and I love how it turned out!

I found the number canvases at Tuesday Morning and just love them! I think they are perfect for the space, and I think both the colors and design suit the room.

Next, I decided to put all of my mists and paints back in a cute caddy. (When I moved, I thought I preferred some hidden storage of my paints, but guess what? I didn't use them! Out of sight, out of mind...) Not only is this storage container much more convenient, it's fabulous eye candy!

Last but not least, I rearranged some artwork I had in the room, and really like it in a grouping like this:

It's amazing how much little things matter! My room feels new and makes me SO happy! I love the pop of color, and the organization just inspires me to get to work! So, if you're contemplating some changes to your craft space, I say go for it! You need to LOVE the place you create in!

Ready, Set... CREATE!

2011-12-27T11:17:00.000-08:00

I've been creating a bit more during this last part of 2011. (Moving houses caused an extended pause in my free time!) However, I definitely want to make much more ART in 2012! As I'm cleaning, planning and organizing for the New Year, I thought I'd share some of the cards, layouts and mixed media work that I've created. Make time for what makes you happy; make time to CREATE! Happy New Year!

Sew Cute

2011-10-20T21:26:00.000-07:00

My youngest son loves ties! He sees his Dad and his big brothers wearing ties, so he thinks it's just fabulous and fun to add one to any old shirt. It doesn't matter what the occasion is, or if it matches his outfit -- or even if the shirt has a collar!

The photo above was taken at the U2 concert this summer. My son picked out the entire outfit and then threw the tie on as we were walking out the door. I truly thought he was just playing around, but he wore the tie for the entire two hour car trip, and then into the concert.(And actually kept it on the entire concert, despite the 98 degree evening.) People loved his tie, and complimented him frequently. He just beamed! From that day on, the boy has added a tie to many an outfit.

I recently took a class taught by the incredibly talented Amy Tan. After seeing her great creations and using her fun new scrapbooking products, I decided to make an Amy Tangerine inspired shirt of my own. At first I thought of girly shirts for me, seasonal tees, etc. and then it hit me -- a tie shirt for my boy! It's casual, it's FLAT and it's fun! As someone who does not sew, it was a bit intimidating at first. However, once I told my son my idea to make this, I had to persevere. I'm so glad I did, and, I actually enjoyed the process. Here's what I came up with:

and the process went something like this:

And Voila!
(Don't forget to take a photo of your cute subject wearing your cool tee-shirt! :)

If you'd like more detailed instructions on how to make a fun shirt like this of your own, just google "reverse applique tee shirts" and you'll be amazed at all the fabulous tutorials out there! Crafters and quilters have been using this ingenious concept for years, and I'm so happy to have learned how to do it myself. Try it!

Thanks for visiting The Scrappy Girl Next Door, and Happy Creating!

Ella Boot Camp

2011-09-30T21:07:00.000-07:00

I've enjoyed getting some of my summer photos caught up this week with all the challenges from Ella Boot Camp! My layouts have been simple and quick (which is a miracle for me -- I'm the slowest scrapper in the universe!)but the main thing is, THEY'RE GETTING DONE!

Here's a layout I did for the "Fun With Word Stamps" challenge from Nichol Magouirk that I really love! Not only are these special photos, as I had my whole family and my college roommate in town for July 4th, but there's also something nostalgic about summer memories! Love this Bo Bunny patterned paper and I really enjoyed the ease of using a grid format. Easy, peasy scrapbooking!

A Happy, USED Creative Space!

2011-09-16T20:01:00.000-07:00

A few months back I posted photos of my new craft room. I kept meaning to post additional pictures as the room came together, but an interesting thing happened. My room was not photographable! It had either two modes: 1) It looked exactly like it did in the first photos, and sat there clean and unused, or 2) It was an absolute disaster as I pulled out boxes and boxes of art supplies and photos and tried to make it all fit! I struggled for a while with the chaos, and kept moving things from here to there, back to where it started. I knew a change was necessary... I had to make this room really work for me!

I realized that I needed an additional work surface. One desk simply wasn't enough. I needed a place to make art, and another desk for working on the computer. I also needed a place to use my Cricut. Finally, I decided to focus on what the room really was -- a place to make things in -- and it needed to be functional! I decided to heck with "looking clean and perfect" and went and bought a cute little desk at World Market. It doesn't really match my other furniture in the room, and the space is tight, but guess what? It feels great in there and the room is being used!

Also, I want to show you my slipcovered chair that I ADORE! In previous posts here about my old scraproom, you can see that my chair is actually a pink suede office chair. It just didn't suit my new room. I decided to have a slipcover made, as the pink chair is actually really comfortable. I chose a fabric that was neutral and matched the style of my French pillows on my bench. And of course, us Southern Girls love to have almost everything monogramed... I love how it turned out!

Well, thanks for looking at my crafty fun place, and remember, it's not about how a space looks, but how it makes you feel when you're in it! :)

Thirty Days of Lists: Day 8

2011-09-08T09:04:00.000-07:00

Things That Remind Me of My Childhood

1. Little House Books and TV Show

2. Plaid uniforms

3. The Brady Bunch (I feel sure I've seen every episode!)

4. Fashion Plates (My ABSOLUTE favorite thing I played with!)

5. The Official Preppy Handbook (even referenced it last night to my 14 year old; some very practical advice in there, actually.)

30 Days of Lists: Day 7

2011-09-07T16:36:00.000-07:00

Today's prompt from 30 Days of Lists is really interesting to me. Generally, we don't blog about the things we are not good at. However, if you're realistic and approach your weaknesses with humor and honesty, it's all good! So, here I go...

I'm Not Very Good At:

1. MATH

2. Drinking enough water

3. Doing Laundry (don't mind washing, hate folding)

4. Driving a stick shift car (In fact, I couldn't drive one if my life depended on it!)

5. Making gravy (mine is always lumpy)

6. Eating fresh fruit (I'm too lazy to wash it, so I generally get a cookie instead, lol. J/K - well sometimes...)

Wheeew! This almost felt like Confession, but now it's all out in the open! And you know what? I'm good with it! I know what I need to work on (like drinking more water and eating fruit) and I also know what I'm never going to embrace (Math!) After all, calculators were invented for a reason. It's a good thing that I also know my strengths, one of which is eating cookies! :)

Happy Wednesday, List Makers!

Day 6: Favorite Color Combos

2011-09-06T08:36:00.000-07:00

(photo via Pinterest, via www.design-seeds.com)

1. green/coral/grey LOVE this color sample above! Really digging these colors and trying to use these in my new house!

Rug by Amy Butler

2. grey/yellow So trendy these days, and the funny thing is that I never used to like either of these colors that much... Together, they're fabulous!

3. coral/turquoise I love this photo! So much so, I think I'm about to paint the back wall of my built-ins this gorgeous coral color! So fresh, fun and yet classic!

30 Days of Lists: Day 4

2011-09-05T23:01:00.000-07:00

Things To Do On A Sunday Morning

1. Sleep late! (And I do mean late; like 11:30 or so...)

2. Drink coffee. Need I say more?

3. Leisurely read the newspaper. These are my sections, and in this order: Real Estate section, the Target weekly insert, the Best Sellers List, and then my horoscope. (Yea, I'm a total Brainiac, uh?)

4. Drink more coffee.

5. Eating Eggs Benedict. At a restaurant. Me not cooking.

6. Relishing in all the potential a carefree Sunday holds.

Inspired by Color -- and Core’dinations!

2011-08-30T11:11:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to participate in one of the monthly Core’dinations challenges, and today managed to do so! Here is their Inspiration photo for the month of August:

Lovely colors! Fresh, yet timeless, all in one! Using some of the fabulous Core’dinations cardstock, we were to make a layout that used these same colors, and featured an interesting technique. Here is my take on the challenge:

I featured photos of each of my boys, at approximately the same age. I love seeing them as babies! For my fun technique, I made my tag with the yummy turquoise cardstock, and using a chipboard "3" on the back of tag, sanded the cardstock to see the 3 emerge in a slightly lighter blue on the front. So very cool! Also, lots of sanding on this layout, as it's fascinating to watch the background color come through. If you haven't picked up any Core’dinations cardstock yet, I recommend doing so! It's fun to work with, and the possibilities are endless! Happy Scrapping!

Where Women Create

2011-08-25T17:28:00.000-07:00

Call it what you want -- art studio, craft room, etc. -- but I adore looking at rooms where women create! I love getting ideas, I'm interested in seeing how they organize their supplies, I'm intrigued by the color combos, but most of all -- I love the artsy eye candy! Such lovely things..! Various art mediums are stored in these rooms, but the one thing all of us have in common is that WE LOVE TO MAKE THINGS! Here are some rooms that inspire me:

All photos are from my Pinterest Board entitled "Craft Rooms" (Pinterest is my latest obsession, after art studios, of course! It's a fabulous way to store all of your favorite photos or collections!) If you want an invitation to join Pinterest, just contact me and I'll happily send you an invite. Happy Creating!

Card-A-Palooza Card Making Event

2011-08-09T21:23:00.000-07:00

This month I've been having so much fun participating in the Card-A-Palooza Event over at For The Luv of Art! (http://fortheluvofart.forumg.biz) It's not too late to join in, and now that a lot of us have the "wee ones" returning to school, it's an excellent time to do something just for ourselves! It's also a great way to get your creative juices flowing, and kind of "get out of your {creative} box," so to speak! (There are also prizes!!) I hope you'll join in the fun, and if you do, post back here and let me know how you're liking it! The details are posted over on the message board at FTLOA, and it's a wonderful group of ladies! Here are some of the cards I made last week during Card-A-Palooza:

Start Simply... Simply Start!

2011-07-10T17:47:00.000-07:00

I haven't scrapbooked in weeks and weeks -- until today! Between packing, moving, and unpacking, there hasn't been much time for creating. However, I've been dying to get in my new art room and MAKE THINGS! Sometimes I walk into my room and just look at all the stuff, get a little overwhelmed, and walk right back out. (Lame, I know.) I think sometimes if you take a break, it's harder to get started again. Or, if you're just starting to scrapbook for the first time, it's hard to know where to begin.

Well, here is what I recommend: Just do it! Don't over think it; just pick out a few photos you love, and sit down and play! Let your photos guide you, and choose colors that make you happy. The layout above literally took me around 20 minutes (if that) to complete. Although it is extremely simple, it makes me happy! I also feel like a burden of sorts has been lifted from me -- I actually made something! Now the wheels are turning, and I'm ready to turn out a few more things.

I challenge you all to start simply, but SIMPLY START! Don't put it off until tomorrow, don't wait until you have tons of free time because that rarely happens... Just pull out a few of your favorite things, and make something! You'll be glad you did!

Peach Pound Cake: Southern Goodness!

2011-07-06T18:42:00.000-07:00

Last week I stumbled upon this recipe, Georgia Peach Poundcake, on Allrecipes.com. (Recipe below photos.) I made it over the July 4th weekend for friends and family, and I must say, it's fabulous! I would highly recommend this for a summer dessert. I think it's my favorite cake I've ever made. The sugary, crispy crust is what makes the cake so unique. It's a delicious after dinner treat -- and it's also great with your morning cup of coffee! Enjoy!

Georgia Peach Pound Cake

1 cup butter or margarine, softened
2 cups white sugar
4 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups fresh peaches, pitted and chopped

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Butter a 10 inch tube pan and coat with white sugar.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well with each addition, then stir in the vanilla. Reserve 1/4 cup of flour for later, and sift together the remaining flour, baking powder and salt. Gradually stir into the creamed mixture. Use the reserved flour to coat the chopped peaches, then fold the floured peaches into the batter. Spread evenly into the prepared pan.

Bake for 60 to 70 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean. Allow cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.

*Interesting tip: tossing the peaches with the flour keeps the peaches from sinking into the batter.

A Room to Create In... Again!

2011-06-12T14:48:00.000-07:00

We moved six weeks ago and I haven't scrapbooked, painted or MADE THINGS since early April :( You know how it goes -- the important essentials come first: unpacking the kitchen, the bedrooms, being able to actually find clothes and linens. Scrapping and crafting falls kind of low on the list of priorities when a family of five moves to a new home! In addition to not having the time to make things, I also couldn't get inspired in my new scraproom. It was dark and dreary. I just couldn't get my creative mojo going in this lack-luster room...

But good news! In the last two weeks I've been able to focus on my crafting space and now I'm ready to go! Although I'm still tweaking and organizing, I'm loving my new serene little space! I will try to come back over the next few weeks and update with more photos as I get things organized and finished. Check out the before and after photos below.

And as I close, the one thing that pops into my head as I type this entry is this all too true phrase: "If Mama Ain't Happy, Then Nobody's Happy." This Mama is certainly happy now that she has a place all her own!

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Family is the Key...

2011-05-03T19:51:00.000-07:00

Several times a year, I'm fortunate enough to have a large get-together with my extended family. This year at Easter, our time together was especially enjoyable. We had all missed getting together at Christmas, due to a deep Southern snow. (Although a White Christmas is a rare treat, it really made me miss that special time to visit with family.) Therefore, our recent time together was long overdue, and extra fun!

Cousins ranging in age from 8 months to 42 all gathered together on this lovely Spring day. Lots of little kids, a huge Easter egg hunt, and plenty of delicious food! Great conversation, cocktails and laughs (for those of us with older kids, anyway! The cousins with little babies didn't have much free time for chit-chat, as they were always following the wee ones.) All in all, it was such a memorable day and that perfect little reminder that all that really matters is Family.

I'm Going to Scrapbook This

2011-04-05T18:42:00.000-07:00

My son is in a rock band. Two of the kids are 8th graders (one of which is my son), and the other two are Freshmen in High School. To be so young, they are very, very good! (I know I'm a little biased, but as an avid music-lover and concert-goer, they really are good!)

This past weekend the band participated in the High School Talent Show. It was a very fun evening full of great musical acts. Now that I think about it, I think ALL the acts were music of some sort. My son's band did a fabulous job performing and received tons of applause. (Quite cool, especially for the 8th graders, which aren't even officially in the High School yet!) At the end of the show the judges awarded the top three acts. My son's band won 3rd place! They kids were excited to hear their names being called out, and us parents were cheering them on enthusiastically. They were in the spotlight on the stage accepting their award and then all of a sudden the emcee announced that there was a $100 prize for winning third place. THIS is my son's priceless expression when he learned Ca$h was involved:

A Toast to Springtime!

2011-03-28T20:34:00.000-07:00

I recently stumbled upon this fabulous looking Easter cocktail! How adorable is this?? Although I don't eat Peeps (can't stand that chewy, sugary, marshmallowy taste - ick!) I do think they are as cute as can be -- AND a sure sign that spring has sprung! I think this is going to be my signature cocktail from now through Easter. Who wouldn't love to be sipping on one of these? Cheers!

"The Pink Peep"

1.5 oz Vodka
1.5 oz Pink vodka-fruit fusion liqueur
Splash Triple-Sec
1 oz Cranberry Juice
Pink (or any color) bunny shaped marshmallow, sugar covered candy

Fill a martini shaker about half way with ice. (This recipe yields one drink).

Add the following ingredients to the shaker: 1.5 oz Vodka, 1.5 oz Pink vodka-fruit fusion liqueur, splash of Triple-Sec, and 1 oz Cranberry Juice. Shake for 30 seconds.

Pour the drink (no ice) into a martini glass. Garnish this cocktail with one pink bunny shaped marshmallow, sugar covered candy by placing a small slit on the bottom of the candy and placing it on the rim of the glass (so the bunny is standing up). Enjoy!

* Photo and recipe from Pink Peony Blog. Thank you for this great recipe! http://pinkpeonies73.blogspot.com/2010/03/easter-buzz.html

A little reminder to believe in YOU!

2011-03-22T08:09:00.000-07:00

Strolling the aisles of Archivers the other day, I found this stamp. I love this quote! A tiny little wooden block and 54 letters, yet is says so much.

Write down those cute things your kids say!

2011-02-22T19:47:00.000-08:00

There is five and a half years difference in age between my oldest son and youngest son. My older son has always been amazing with his baby brother! He's helped him learn to talk, walk and read. They are the best of friends, and my older son couldn't be a better protector of his little brother.

One day recently we were riding in the car, taking a few of my son's friends home, and my youngest son all of the sudden announced this to the other kids, "I just love Thomas! He's practically raised me, you know!" The teenagers kind of laughed, and then just resumed their conversation about music, girls, or a combination there of. But myself, I had many different thoughts running through my head: First, "What?? What about me?? I'm just the woman who gave birth to you. Natural child-birth, I might add." And then amusement. Then, finally, "That is SO sweet! I love that bond they share. That really touches my heart."

When I would think back on this day, I knew I just had to write it down so I would remember. With the chaos of day to day life, especially with three busy kids, these cute little things sadly sometimes get forgotten. I want to remember this forever. I want my sons to recall it one day when they're older, hanging out together and just reminiscing. These little snippets and firsts are what will one day stand out to them when they reflect back on their childhood and relationships.

I wanted to share with you a little booklet I made for my youngest son. It's a little folded booklet, with holes punched inside and a photo pocket window on the outside. I decided to record all of his First Words in this cute little book. I have all these little post it notes, or scraps of notebook paper in his baby album of the first words he said: "Mic" (milk); "Kitch-ee-ay" (Chick-fil-a) and "inch fries" (french fries.) (Yes, I had babies that were adorably chubby and apparently thought about food a lot!) Now I have an official place to record his very first words; a Baby Dictionary of sorts.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-13T21:09:00.000-08:00

I had great intentions of having a few friends over to make Valentines. I gathered all my heart stamps, a substantial stack of red, pink & white cardstock, and even sorted all of my red embellishments into cute little dishes for the table. As soon as I did all the work, I caught my son's bad cold/fever/virus - Ugh! It seems that I do much better on social events when I just make plans spontaneously -- i.e., calling a friend the day OF and hoping she's free! Oh well... I guess this actually pretty typical for this time of year. Seems like everyone I know is sick right now.

Regardless of the Valentine Crafting party that did not take place, I did have fun this evening playing with all my pink and red goodies. I made a few cards for the teachers, and this one for my husband. It's kind of masculine, and it was very liberating spraying Glimmer Mist everywhere! It was a fun little evening of creating. I hope everyone has a great Valentines Day, and that you make something special for someone you love.

Hats off to you, Sir Punxsutawney Phil!

2011-02-02T07:24:00.000-08:00

I always look forward to Groundhogs Day! When the outcome is good (i.e. an early Spring!) it gives me that little extra push I need to know I can actually get through the Winter! It reminds me that Spring is really just around the corner, even though the gray days of February seem endless. It lets me know on this 27 degree morning that "This too shall pass." It is my little prompt to start planning our Spring Break and visions of the blue shore, sandcastles and flip flops dance in my head!

Hats off to the that chubby little fellow, Punxsutawney Phil, who did not see his shadow this morning and predicted an early Spring! Hooray, hooray -- Spring is on it's way!

Time to Restore...

2011-01-17T20:24:00.000-08:00

I'm loving Brave Girls Club, and think everyone should check it out! Melody Ross is simply amazing, and such a sweet, sweet soul. Not only are we doing a lot of soul searching, we're also experimenting with all kinds of fun art techniques. My days have been filled with creating with Mod Podge, and making lots of collages. I'm kind of hooked -- I had forgotten how fun it is to just make art! Save your loose change over the next few months and take the next Brave Girls online class; it's definitely worth it!

December Album Finally Done!

2011-01-11T14:23:00.000-08:00

I know I always love to mention Shimelle here, and her amazing classes, such as "Journal Your Christmas." I've been working to finish my December album -- kind of a combination of JYC and Ali's December Daily. I wanted to have it done -- totally done, and not unfinished (like a lot of my other projects! ;-) Anyway, just finished it up today, and it feels good to have it done! It's a simple album, but I do love the photos, the memories, and the fact that it is DONE!

2011 + "Soul Restoration" = Just What the Doctor Ordered

2011-01-04T22:36:00.000-08:00

I'm anxiously awaiting for "Soul Restoration" to begin next week! This is an online workshop from Brave Girls Club, and it sounds absolutely AMAZING! Aside from being incredibly talented women, the girls here are so encouraging and know just what to say when I need it the most! I'm giddy, and ready to begin! Go check out Brave Girls Club. You'll be glad you did!

A New Year, a new start, all of it just waiting for us... Wishing everyone all the best in 2011!

www.bravegirlsclub.com

Photo of the day from dressmycupcake.com - Great source for cupcake wrappers!

A White Christmas

2010-12-25T19:10:00.000-08:00

Well, today has been a day of firsts. We had our first White Christmas! In the South, this is very unusual. My husband and I have never had snow on Christmas morning, and neither have my children. It was truly magical to wake up to the crisp, beautiful blanket of white. No cars, no people (as most neighbors had already gone out of town for the Holidays) -- nothing but silence and this magical sight! This was definitely a day I think my kids and I will always remember.

The other "first" that I had was not spending Christmas day with my parents due to the bad weather. (I know, I'm lucky to have spent so many with them, and I'm very grateful!) Although it's amazing to have this snowy Christmas day at home, I do miss seeing them today. I could tell my Mom was a little down when I talked to her on the phone this morning -- and was missing us too. We will just have to plan something for later in the week... I can't wait to see her open her surprise gift -- I got her a KitchenAid stand mixer! What a great treat it will be to surprise her!

I hope everyone had a magical Christmas Day! (And took lots of holiday photos!)

How Amazing is Shimelle?

2010-12-01T16:13:00.000-08:00

Shimelle Laine is one "on the ball," cool, creative chick! Love her! Not only does she put together the amazing Journal Your Christmas online class, but she provides us with all kinds of fun "stuff!"(See manifesto below.)

Can't wait to see how my album comes together. Still planning, and sorting and working. Before I sleep tonight, I will have my first page done!

Thanks & Hugs, Shimelle!

Decisions, decisions.... December 1 is Just About Here!

2010-11-30T23:13:00.000-08:00

Journal Your Christmas finally begins! I want to talk more later about the process, the reasons for journaling your Christmas, and most definitely the amazing Shimelle. Right now, however, I wanted to let you know how difficult it is for me to make decisions about this album! So many glorious choices! Old papers that are favorites, this brand new Imaginisce line that I love, or a combination of all in my Christmas stash? Whatever is a girl to do... One thing that is decided is the size -- I'm doing an 8x8 album. Well, I'm going to sleep on it, and wake up tomorrow and get to work! Enjoy the Season!

Home Sweet Home...

2010-11-19T09:17:00.000-08:00

I found this quote in a magazine recently, and I love, love, LOVE it! It made me feel so much better about my house, about me -- and just happy in general! I'm so glad I'm providing my children with such a warm, loving environment, with plenty of poetry!

"Clutter is the poetry of our homes. It is an intimate view that is not always perfect -- a few dishes in the sink, books piled next to the bed. Everything in its place may give a certain satisfaction, but a lived-in room exudes comfort and warmth."

~ Mary Randolph Carter, author of A Perfectly Kept House Is The Sign of a Misspent Life

Happy Birthday to The {Scrappy} Girl Next Door!

2010-11-03T21:04:00.000-07:00

It was a year ago today that I started this blog! (It actually really blows my mind that a whole year has passed so quickly!)

In usual "Tracy Style," I contemplated blogging for quite some time before actually creating my blog. It went something like this, "Should I really spend time writing down my thoughts? Who's gonna' read it?" or "Do I really want to reveal things about me that are personal, perhaps trivial, and well, sometimes downright quirky?" or "Gee, do I really need something else to work on? I already have plenty of hobbies -- do I need something else to add to my To Do list?" All of these things went through my head, and one day it just hit me -- "What do I possibly have to lose -- Just do it already!" So, The {Scrappy} Girl Next Door was created!

The thing that has surprised me about blogging is how instantly gratifying it is, and how much I really do enjoy going back and reading posts from previous months. These two reasons alone are enough to keep me blogging.

When I say instantly gratifying, I really love that feeling when everything is all typed, spell check is complete and you hit Publish Post. I can spend days and days working on a scrapbook layout, and I rarely get that immediate sense of gratification. (I keep working on the layout, wondering if I should make changes, should I add just one more thing, etc.) I see scrapbooking as sometimes never-ending (with three busy kids and all!) but my blogging can be done in just a few free minutes I have in the evening once everyone is in bed. Love that it's short and sweet, and DONE!

The second reason I mentioned, going back and rereading earlier posts, really does make me feel like I've actually preserved memories. It takes me back to that day, that event, that layout -- whatever the post was about -- and makes me recall specific little details that I might have otherwise forgotten. My posts make me remember very special times (and even a few not-so-fun times: see post Keepin' it Real, when we had Swine Flu on Thanksgiving!) but sometimes they also make me more aware of how far I've come. It's all right there, just for me (and occasionally a few of my followers!) to read. Basically, just the modern day diary!

So, all in all, I'm happy that I became a blogger! Some days I'm not sure how I want to proceed with my blog, and what direction to take. It will be very interesting to see what the next year brings. Blogging definitely preserves some of my favorite memories, and Hey, I don't lose my blog like those countless little spiral bound notebooks I used to buy for journaling!

Thanks so much for visiting my blog! Happy Birthday, Scrappy Girl!

CHECK THIS OUT! Gypsies Journal: A very merry gypsy holiday indeed.... and a GIVEAW...

2010-10-31T14:57:00.000-07:00

Gypsies Journal: A very merry gypsy holiday indeed.... and a GIVEAW...: "Whether you've been naughty or nice this year we think every gypsy deserves of a special gift this holiday season. And here's our gift to y..."

Happy Fall!

2010-10-24T07:23:00.000-07:00

Today we are planning to get outside and enjoy this beautiful day! The leaves are at their peak here, and a big rain front (badly needed rain!) is due in later tonight. I think we need to enjoy every little moment of today, with the incredible color and the warm sunshine! We've been so lucky to have this Indian Summer -- kind of an extension of carefree, summer days. I think some fresh apple cider would hit the spot right now.... Happy Fall, everyone!

Ten Things I Love Today, in Honor of 10-10-10

2010-10-10T14:36:00.000-07:00

1. Sleeping late. Sleeping late is better than cupcakes or chocolate. Or even chocolate cupcakes.

2. This beautiful sunny Fall day, with the trees bursting with a mixture of crimson, burnt orange and sunflowery hues.... 100% Gorgeous.

3. Hearing my son playing on the guitar downstairs. Amazed at how he can hear a song once, then go figure out how to play it, all on his own. (I really did give birth to him, but this blows my mind, as I have zero music ability.)

4. Coffee. (Need I say more?)

5. Sitting by the pool, soaking up the sunshine.

6. The song "Little Lion Man." (And fair warning, it's not for little ears.)

7. Irreverent Madison on Alt Nation/First Wave. You just never know what she will say next, and I love it!

8. Mad Men. It comes on tonight -- Hooray!

9. Running water and electricity. I'm currently reading the book "Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict" and it pains me that they had to go a full five days (or more!) without a bath. And when they did get a bath, the servants had to bring boiling buckets of water up three flights of stairs to fill the copper tub. Makes me tired just thinking about it... Yet usually I think it's hard to walk upstairs and turn on the faucet. (Yes, I admit to being a lazy individual.) Seriously though, we really do take these things for granted. Hmmm..... I think I will go take a shower now. Because I CAN...

and drum roll please for Number 10........

10. My amazing 13 year old son made dinner tonight for us all. We had his legendary homemade Alfredo sauce with pasta. It's absolutely delicious! (Yes, this is the same son that is playing the guitar. Oh, one day he is going to make some young lady such a good husband! Who doesn't dig a cute guy that plays guitar AND cooks? Oh yea!)

Okay, that's my list. Now I'm going to eat my chocolate cupcake for dessert. All in all, it's been a fabulous 10-10-10. :)

When you care enough to send the very best...

2010-10-04T20:36:00.000-07:00

Did any of you participate in WCMD (World Card Making Day) this weekend? I actually made several cards and remember why I love card making so much -- you get instant gratification and a finished project within just a few minutes! Love it! No stress, no never-ending albums, no worries about keeping things chronological, etc. Just an Instant Happy! :)

Relax...

2010-10-02T15:13:00.000-07:00

Easier said than done, uh? Especially for us "busy body" types!

This is one of my most favorite things in my craft room. We were strolling along the beautiful streets of Sea Side, when we spotted this piece of art in a gallery. My husband took one look at it, and laughed, saying, "Babe, this sums you up perfectly!" (He meant this in the kindest way possible, of course.) It hangs next to my desk and reminds me to not take everything so seriously. I especially love the way it says "...YOU decide." That lets me know that it's really all up to me and how I react to things and others.

I {heart} this zany lady -- she helps me Chillax!

Nothing Says Summer Like Tomatoes & Sweet Tea!

2010-08-16T16:05:00.000-07:00

Well it's about time! After tending to 10 heirloom tomato plants since April, we're finally eating these wonderful ripe, red beauties. We've been amazed at how long it actually takes a green tomato to turn red. (An agonizing process when summer is in full swing!) For several weeks now we've been enjoying BLTs and sweet tea for lunch or dinner, or some days lunch AND dinner! And I must mention, bacon is not even necessary. These tomatoes are that good.

In addition to sandwiches, I've also made Caprese Salad and Caprese & Mozzarella skewers. I even threw together a BLT Pasta Salad. Yum. Oh, the possibilities are endless when your cup runneth over with tomatoes...

My latest tomato creation (shown below) was highly requested. My oldest son has been asking for a Tomato Pie for months. It's full of cheese with little hints of delicious fresh basil. Not the healthiest I will admit, but as Mr. Food would say, ""It's Oh, So Good!"

It's Summertime...

2010-07-08T22:17:00.000-07:00

Today I received the Back-To-School issue of Pottery Barn Kids in the mail, featuring the latest and greatest in lunch-boxes and backpacks. Yesterday, I saw a fall display on a store shelf, with autumn leaves and little splashes of orange and brown throughout the arrangement. I did not like either of these things. Not one little bit.... It's Summertime, people! Let's not rush it!

Although I do love Fall, I can't stand the thought of the kids being back in the school routine for another long nine months, or the thought of another never-ending frigid winter. Enough! I just want to enjoy this splendid season: the carefree days with no schedule, my kids all being home with me, fun days by the pool, and just the ease and attitude of SUMMER! Cheers, my friends, to Summer! Enjoy every little minute of it...

Feeling Inspired & Ready to Create!

2010-06-23T23:08:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I attended Donna Downey's incredible Inspired event. It was definitely just what the doctor ordered! We did so many projects that were totally out of my comfort zone, yet I loved every moment! It really got my creative juices flowing. Aside from the fabulous teachers & artists, I met so many great people that share my love of creating! All in all, it was a fabulous get-away! I'd love to share some of my photos from the weekend, featuring work of some AMAZING artists.

Pam Garrison is a mixed-media artist, and was absolutely amazing! She created this canvas for Inspired, and it is so darn cute!!! Now I want to paint a canvas for my scrapbook room. In her class we used vintage papers, acrylic paints & watercolors, collage elements and we even sewed on our pages in class. (For me, that was a huge accomplishment!)

Artist Diana Gessler taught a wonderful class on Illustrated Travel Journals. She showed us her inspiring journals from her trips around the world, and her talent is unbelievable! I love the way each little picture told a fascinating story from her travels. I have my traveling watercolors and my artist's journal -- all I need now is a summer trip! (And maybe a fraction of Diana's talent!)

And last but definitely not least, is this canvas layout by Donna Downey! I'm in awe of Donna's talent, her energy level, and her great sense of humor. I wish I could sew, and embrace the use of fabric like she does! I've never used fabric on my layouts before, but now I really want to! (I even have purchased beautiful fabric and I'm ready to go!)

My most favorite class out of the entire weekend was Donna's Inspiration Journal. Her journals are GORGEOUS. She goes with the flow, and just goes with whatever she's feeling that day. Each page was a true work of art. She would just slap down paint directly on the page, and then start painting, and before you knew it, an exquisite piece of art was before you. After her class I bought two of her blank Inspiration Journals, and I can't wait to start filling up the pages. I will admit, though, I am NOT the type to just squeeze paint directly on the page - lol! I'll try to loosen up a bit, but just not sure that's in the cards for me!

I hope you've enjoyed these little sneak-peeks from The Inspired Artist's Workshop. PLEASE NOTE that the above works are not my work, and that each artist is named. They are shown here for inspirational purposes only. Please visit their websites for more Inspiration. I highly recommend Donna's Inspired weekend (May 2011 is the next scheduled event) and hope to see you there!

Summer's Here!

2010-06-02T22:52:00.000-07:00

Ah, Summer Day, Summer Day -- nothing is as beautiful as those two words! School is out, the kids are sleeping in (and so am I!), and the days are spent poolside or else doing absolutely nothing -- except what we want to do. I love it! My favorite daily summer ritual is to have my coffee outside on the patio before the day gets too hot. I love the cool feeling on my skin, the birds chirping loudly in the trees, and most of all, the excitement of what possibilities the day may hold!

The Southland in Springtime

2010-04-11T21:53:00.000-07:00

After the longest, coldest, snowiest winter that I ever recall, it is finally really spring! Although it has been official for several weeks now, it actually looks and feels like spring. The dogwoods are in bloom, the daffodils and tulips are in their prime, and the azaleas are just opening up. I woke to the sound of birds chirping outside my window, and a lawn mower buzzing in the distance. The grass is the greenest of greens -- that glorious new green that only appears in April. It is absolutely gorgeous out today. Love the Southland in Springtime!

2010-03-21T19:15:00.000-07:00

One of my most favorite quotes, "Imagination is more important than knowledge." by Albert Einstein. Gotta' love it! As much as I believe this, I'm a little hesitant to really push this quote on my school-age kids . Most specifically my thirteen year old who insists Algebra will never help him in real life. (Yes, I remember saying this to my Mom!) I can just hear the conversation now, "See Mom, even Albert Einstein knew that imagination was more important than Algebra, so why should I bother? He was a genius after all." But between you and me, I totally think this is true! (And using my imagination and creativity makes me infinitely happier than Algebra, or any kind of math!)

A Tiny Green Room of Her Own

2010-01-21T19:53:00.000-08:00

I'm absolutely obsessed with looking at photos of scraprooms! I can look at craft rooms, scrap rooms, art studios -- whatever you want to call them! -- for hours on end. Not only do like to see the various styles of decorating, I love to get storage and display ideas for my own room. When someone posts photos of their scraproom, I never think of it as being "braggy" in any way. I think of it as a contribution to scrapbookers everywhere -- A gift to man-kind!

I love so many types of scraprooms -- big ones, tiny ones, rustic ones, green ones, you name it. I have favorites saved on my computer all the way back from 2002. I recognize a scrapbooker's profile pic on a message board and think, "Oh, she's the one with the lovely red scraproom with the cute Pottery Barn Samantha Bench..." You get the idea!

My scrap "space" started out in 1997 as cozy nook with a card table in the corner of my family room, right next to my new baby's Pack'n'Play. He played or napped, and I learned how to scrap, and the rest, they say, is history. Over the years, with moves to different houses, I've had "shared spaces" for my scrapbook supplies ranging from a really large laundry room that had built-in shelves and a desk, to my kids' playroom which had a mural of hot-air balloons painted on the wall, and my little added counter-top in the back of the room. None of these spaces were perfect, but I managed. Of course I kept hoping for my own room, and would constantly reconfigure rooms hoping to find space JUST FOR ME. That finally happened about a year ago. We shifted the boys around, and I took over a tiny bedroom. It was great fun to decorate, and being the only girl in the house, it was quite a new experience buying PINK things! All in all, it turned out well for me and it is indeed my favorite "go to" place.

Although I would hate to think of giving up my room should we move, I do find it ironic that scrapping was actually much easier back when I simply had one Iris cart and a Rubbermaid tub in the midst of teething toys and plush baby blocks. Yes, sounds pathetic, but I swear, I got a TON of scrapping done back then! I'm not going to say that the layouts were exquisite works of art, but they were completed quickly, and the process wasn't at all stressful. (And when I look back at them, I love these early pages!) As I type this, and look around my room which is overflowing with patterned paper of every hue, and printers and die-cut machines covering most surfaces, I can't help but think of one of my husband's favorite quotes: "“The absence of alternatives clears the mind marvelously.”

Hmmm... what a concept! Scaling back? Out with the old, in with the new? Simplifying? Definitely an option to explore in 2010.

Handmade = Love <3

2010-01-09T21:37:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! I've had over a week now to ponder New Year's resolutions. Every year I contemplate various things, and frankly, I don't usually stick to any of them. They usually involve either fitness & diet, or home organization. I must be honest here -- these are not things that I excel at, or enjoy working on. And overall, these aren't things that are really going to matter 50 years from now. [Note: My husband just read this sentence and laughed loudly. He said, "Of course your diet and fitness is going to matter in 50 years!" Let me clarify -- YES, it will matter and I do hope to make some positive improvements. However, my kids won't care in 50 years if I wore a size 8 in jeans or a size 12, know what I mean???] The bottom line is this: In 2010 I want to focus on doing what I love and loving what I do, and doing it for my loved ones -- the people that really matter.

Last night I was taking down my Christmas trees and had time to think about what each ornament meant to me. What memories each one held, the story behind it, and for some, the hands that made them. The hands that made them with love for me and my family.

The top photo is my favorite ornament this year. My seven year old son created this just for me! He made these adorable snowmen with his hand print. Words just can't express how much I cherish this ornament. I love that little hand print, and love those brown eyes that just sparkled with pride as I opened his gift! As the years pass, and his hand grows, I will treasure this ornament all the more.

The next two photos are ornaments that my grandmother made for me over the years. Each little person, or kitty, or gingerbread man was created with her hands. Each eye stitched by her, with love. This is my sixth Christmas without her, and each year I miss her terribly. But it makes me feel close to her when I hang these ornaments and touch the fabric she has touched. It also makes me know I want to be the kind of person that she was. The kind of person who loved to make things for her family; the great mother and grandmother that thought good food was a way to show her love for her children, and that it was worth the effort; the hardworking person that never sat idle and always had a project going for someone she loved. That's what I want to do, and that's the gift I want to give my children.

Just Desserts...

2009-12-28T21:08:00.000-08:00

My favorite flair on Facebook is "Keep Calm and Have a Cupcake" -- Love it! Although there are new cupcakeries (is that a word?) on every corner these days, you just can't beat a cupcake made from scratch right at home! I found a delicious recipe for the chocolate cupcake that included Ghirardelli chocolate and coffee -- the perfect mocha cupcake! A little cream cheese frosting, and some mini chocolate chips = Heaven.

Ghirardelli Mocha Cupcakes (Recipe from AllRecipes.com)

Cupcakes:
1 1/8 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup Ghirardelli Unsweetened Cocoa
1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated white sugar
1/2 cup whole milk plus
2 tablespoons whole milk
1/3 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Frosting:
6 ounces Ghirardelli Semi-Sweet Chocolate baking bar, broken or chopped into 1-inch pieces
3/4 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup Ghirardelli Milk or Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line 12 cupcake molds or muffin tins with paper liners or spray with nonstick spray.
To make the cupcakes, sift together the flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, brown sugar, and white sugar. Whisk in the milk, coffee, and melted butter. Whisk in the dry ingredients. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake molds, filling them about three-quarters full.
Bake for 15 minutes, or until a tester inserted in the middle of the cupcakes comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes. Using a small spatula or knife, remove the cupcakes from the pan. Continue to cool on a wire rack to room temperature.
To make the frosting, melt the chopped chocolate in the top of a double boiler, or in a heatproof bowl, over barely simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth. Heat the cream until hot. Remove from the heat and whisk in the chocolate. Transfer to a bowl and cool to just warm. Whisk in the butter until smooth. Let sit until it reaches a spreading consistency, about 1 hour. Spread the frosting on top of the cupcakes. Sprinkle them with chocolate chips.

NOTE: This recipe includes a chocolate frosting. On my cupcakes, I made a cream cheese frosting because that is what my boy requested! Very yummy either way...

The Perfect Midnight Snack...

2009-12-27T21:24:00.000-08:00

Yes, I do think of the upcoming New Year, and my goals (one of which is eating healthier and starting a workout program -- like the rest of America!), but then I quickly push it way to the back of my mind and go and search the kitchen for one more delicious holiday dessert! I figure I have four more good days left before I have to be really disciplined, so why not make the best of it?! So, tonight I chose my favorite late night snack: homemade pound cake and a glass of milk. Yum! (You can tell from the above layout just how much I really do love homemade -- not store bought -- pound cake!) The kids were all sleeping, my husband was up watching a movie, and I sat by the fire and enjoyed every single morsel of my sweet treat!

A Different Perspective...

2009-12-13T06:47:00.000-08:00

My son recently visited Santa, and was delighted to have quite a lengthy conversation with him. A day or so later, he was telling me that he really thought the Santa he visited at the mall was the real Santa, not one of his helpers. That he could just tell by the way this Santa talked, and what he said, that he was the real deal. I could tell how excited he was, and told him that Santa himself did occasionally make special visits around Christmastime. He then asked me if I had ever seen the real Santa in person. I told him no, that I hadn't, but I then told him a story from my childhood how my sister and I were completely convinced that we saw Santa's sleigh up in the sky late one Christmas Eve. We saw the magical red light high up in the sky that we just knew was Rudolph's nose, and that he was leading Santa and his sleigh to our hometown. My son listened with great interest, and then instantly asked me if I took a picture of the sleigh. I told him no, that back in the seventies people just didn't carry their cameras around with them. (He's used to me having my small point & shoot in my purse at all times, and usually my digi SLR sitting on the kitchen counter top.) He then asked in total seriousness if I had at least taken a picture of it with my cell phone. I laughed, and once again answered no, and then explained that I didn't even own a cell phone until the mid-nineties, when I was already out of college and working a full-time job. All of the sudden, he came running over to me and gave me the biggest hug. He looked up at me, shook his little head, and said, "Gosh Mommy, I'm so sorry you had such a rough childhood!" I knew then that I just had to document this moment... :)

December 1st...The Big Day is Here!

2009-12-01T11:51:00.001-08:00

Day One of Shimelle's Journal Your Christmas! Guess what? I've actually done the assignment! (For those of you who know what a procrastinator I am, Surprise! For those of you who don't know me, just pretend you didn't read this part and think I'm one of those "On the Ball" over-achievers, 'kay?) I definitely prefer the 8x8 size compared to last year's 12x12. I feel like I can squeeze in a 8x8 layout even on a crazy day. Had fun, enjoyed the process -- hooray! :)

Journal Your Christmas

2009-11-27T19:59:00.000-08:00

Ah, the excitement is already in the air! My two Christmas trees are up and decorated, the stockings are hung, and my stash of Christmas paper is EVERYWHERE! It's time to get ready for "Journal Your Christmas", a fabulous class offered by Shimelle. (Go to www.shimelle.com for more info., and this weekend, you can even register to win a FREE "Journal Your Christmas" class! How cool is that??) This will be my second time to participate in Shimelle's very inspiring class. Shimelle sends you daily prompts from December 1st - January 6th to help you focus on your Christmas memories and traditions. Some people do cute little journals, while others do gorgeous 12 x 12 albums -- and many more make every size in between! It's yours to do as you see fit, and what your schedule allows. It can be very simple, or you can go all out. The first year I did a 12 x12 album and I absolutely treasure it! I love the way it turned out, and my kids really enjoy looking back on our Christmas events and traditions. This year, however, I'm going to do an 8x8 album and try to scale back a little. It was actually pretty challenging to fill up an entire 12x12 album -- and I take A LOT of photos!

So I am now at the really fun part: planning my album! The key for me staying current on my album last time was to prepare some pages ahead of time. That way, when it got really busy during December, I already had some "go to" pages! I'm off to work on some pages, and to go through my stash! Truly, check out Shimelle -- she really is amazing!

Keepin' it Real...

2009-11-25T14:53:00.001-08:00

Well, I've been waiting for a good day -- a day when everyone is healthy, a day where I had time to be creative, etc. Then it hit me today -- I blog exactly the way I scrapbook -- only the picture perfect memories! I only scrap the birthdays, the milestones, the CLEAN house, and the picturesque sunsets. I'm sure all you Moms out there know that these moments are few and far between, on this long (yet amazing) road of parenting! SO, I decided to blog about my current reality.

We have Swine Flu in the house, and have had it for 6 days. (Yes, I know it's actually H1N1, but my kids have made so many pig jokes this week that Swine Flu it is around here! Hey, we need some humor to get thru this...) I joke, but my son has been really sick. Not only has he had the flu, but he had a bad allergic reaction to the antibiotic he was on. He's feverish, itchy and feels just terrible. Poor baby -- he's had a rough time of it! The rest of us are on Tamiflu, hoping we don't get it.

So, as many bloggers are photographing lovely fall foliage, or using melodious words to describe the intoxicating smell of their pumpkin pies baking in the oven, I am keeping a written record of Motrin & Tamiflu dosages, checking temperatures, and washing my hands so often that they're raw. But you know what? I'm feeling especially thankful for good health (that we so often take for granted) and family. There's nothing more important, this I know for sure. Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Meet me on the Equinox, Meet me Halfway...

2009-11-17T19:33:00.001-08:00

New Moon opens in a little over 48 hours!!! Yes, I am a huge Twilight fan. I know there are many opinions out there on the subject, and yes, I know the series was written with the teen audience in mind, but I HEART Twilight and the entire Cullen Gang! I can't believe a year has flown by since last year's premiere of Twilight. The above layout shows photos from the Twilight party I hosted last year. It was amazing how that party brought so many women together -- women of different ages and backgrounds, women who've read vampire novels for years and those of us who swore we'd never be into vampires (raising hand here!), and women who are Team Edward and the few who are Team Jacob. (Yes, I am a little biased on that subject -- "Team Edward all the way, baby!" -- as you can see from my t-shirt in the above photo.) I find it fascinating that one single woman, Stephanie Meyer, created this unbelievable sensation all from a story that came to her in a dream! Amazing...

Have many of you purchased the New Moon soundtrack? I got it a few weeks ago, and initially I thought it really didn't compare to the Twilight soundtrack. I should mention that the Twilight soundtrack is one of my favorite Cd's of all time. Love it! But you know, the New Moon soundtrack has really grown on me in the last week or so. I think the Death Cab for Cutie song "Meet me on the Equinox" is SO rockin', and I especially like the track "Friends" by The Band of Skulls. Now, as I'm listening to it, I'm trying to figure out where in the movie each song will go. If you haven't checked out the soundtrack, I would really recommend it. Just skip over track number 4 "Possibilities" -- it is the creepiest song ever! Truly, so eerie and spooky, which I suppose is just perfect for a movie like this, uh?

I will be seeing the movie this weekend with the same group of friends from last year. It's funny, we were all friends before, but I do feel like we have a special connection because of Twilight. I mean, after all, who else would understand our conversations that have sentences that go something like this: "Man, it certainly looks like Forks around here today. Will the rain ever stop?" or "Gee, I wish my husband sparkled like Edward..." or even "Gosh, you must have been really late for school this morning -- We saw you driving like a Cullen!" It's great to have friends that GET IT (and coincidentally, they also GET scrapbooking, too! Pretty cool, uh?) Ah, the thought of girls night out, cocktails and seeing the gorgeous Edward Cullen is just intoxicating! Have fun seeing the movie and the great vampire eye candy! :)

The Daily Five...

2009-11-09T07:20:00.000-08:00

I mentioned earlier that I'm taking another class from Shimelle, Blogging for Scrapbookers. I'm learning lots of great things, and loving all the glittery, cupcake inspiration from Shimelle. One of our assignments this week is to post a list on our blog. It can be any list -- likes, dislikes, etc. So here is mine, "The Daily Five..." Although I don't always get to enjoy this leisurely list every morning, this is what my ideal weekday routine consists of:

Coffee!
Laptop
Facebook (I love seeing everyone's updates!)
Television (I rarely watch TV, but either CNN or the Weather Channel is always on in the background.)
Checking out my favorite scrapbook websites.

Take the time to enjoy the little things...

2009-11-06T10:07:00.000-08:00

Some days it's easy to wish you were somewhere else, doing something else... But it's amazing to me what is really outside our very own windows when we take the time to actually look. It's gorgeous here right now! It's the perfect weekend for a fire in the fireplace, some hot apple cider -- and of course some scrapbooking!

What kind of neighbor would I be, if I didn't provide occasional eye candy?

2009-11-05T13:58:00.000-08:00

I'm a little short on time today, but what kind of neighbor would I be if I didn't provide a little eye candy from time to time? I was just thinking about how much music influences my mood, and how it always needs to be on in my scraproom. Rockin' or slow, alternative or country -- it makes all the difference! This is a simple layout, but it was so fun to work on -- considering the subjects and all ;o) Hope you've had a really rockin' day!

Just the Girl Next Door...That's Me

2009-11-03T15:44:00.000-08:00

I've been on the fence about blogging. To blog or not to blog? I've been kicking it around for a while. Most days I think, "Why do people really blog?" And I'm sure the answers are many. Still, I wasn't sure if blogging was really for me.

I have always been a crafter of some sort. Scrapbooking, card-making, painting... You name it, anything "crafty" is my thing! And the fun part of making things is to share it with others. To make things FOR others, but to also have someone who shares in your excitement and who enjoys the process as much as you do.So, I recently had a realization, of sorts, when it comes to blogging. I was thinking how cool it would be to have real-life friends and neighbors who really GOT scrapbooking and cardmaking like I do. Someone that actually understood my addiction to patterned paper; someone who spends more money in the craft store than on her wardrobe; someone who gets just down right giddy walking the aisles at Archivers, etc. (You get my point.) I actually have a few friends who are like this (and you girls know who you are!), but for the most part, people just don't get it at all. Then I had this crazy fantasy on Halloween night as we took the kids trick-or-treating from house to house. It went something like this: I moved to a neighborhood where everyone liked to craft and scrapbook as much as I do."Oh, a cardmaker lives here... A big time scrapbooker lives there...This really fabulous photographer lives in that house, etc." Isn't that silly? But wouldn't that be the funnest neighborhood to live in?! Can you imagine the cool and creative treats that you'd be getting on Halloween, rather than the traditional candy bar? I know it's crazy nonsense, but I knew then that if such a place existed, I'd move there right away -- house unseen! :)

So, here I go...I'm moving into that scrappy neighborhood! It's somewhere in between Mr. Roger's neighborhood and Wysteria Lane. But the main thing is, it's a place where people GET all things Scrappy!

Check out Shimelle's "Journal Your Christmas" Class

2009-11-03T14:58:00.000-08:00

I'm taking another class from one of my favorite Scrapbookers, Shimelle. She has fabulous scrapping ideas, and even cupcake recipes! If you haven't checked out Shimelle's work before, you must do so! It's almost time for her famous "Journal Your Christmas" class (starts December 1st), so check it out. My "Journal Your Christmas" album is one of my favorites. (Maybe I'll post some of my pages closer to December.) Can't wait to do it again this year! (www.shimelle.com)