this is MY life

Baby Shower gift

2011-04-10T21:06:00.003-05:00

Baby Shower gift for Irina - Bo Bunny word "Baby" I used up stash for this with an older LRS kit filled with Making Memories product... I loved the Pink and Green combination as she is supposed to be having a girl.. random flowers and brads, I used a Jillibean soup

stamp for the butterfly and a BG rub on. I found some of my little Maya Road heart pins leftover from Valentines day and stuck them on too.

Until next time!

Missing You - Vacation

2011-04-03T09:31:00.006-05:00

Duchess, I can hardly believe yesterday was 2 years since you went to puppy heaven! I miss you every single day! The joy and happiness you brought to my life will last my lifetime. I miss seeing you everywhere but mostly I miss you by my side and sitting on the chair like this while I craft or taking you for ice cream. No other dog was as loved as you were my puppie.. You definately left your pawprints on my heart... love and miss you puppie! RIP 9-13-1996 4-2-2009

Duchess

Now this little birdie Sparkie takes up most of my free time... she is always around wanting to be out of her cage and loved... But alas a bit too much loving and she thinks its fun to lay eggs for me.. arrrrrrrrrrgh enough already... This was her hunt the day she laid her last clutch. Looking into the pantry... oh no you don't

Really thinking looks good back here mom! No dearie you head up to your cage where she promplty started her latest clutch... where they belong.. Now to break her of this cycle... 4 clutchs of eggs since Thanksgiving is not good!!! hard to not love her so much but we are shaking up her cage and routine to break her out of the Nesting mode...

February came and went, not sure If I posted this little batch of valentine pillow pockets or not.

Peeps at work loved them.! Now to make some Easter ones, finding this is the best way to make alot of things, uses up stash!! wooot wooot... and can put together quickly.. Ok, so while on vacation I spent alot of time by myself during the day while peeps at work. So I went on a photo shoot... hehehe here is one of the better self shots I really need to get myself more into my books and stop being so hyper critical of how my photos come out.. I me afterall this is what my family and friends see when they look at me and LOVE me just the way I am so need to do some self loving myself..

Westminster Massachusetts, The Old Mill is now a Restaurant, but in a previous life it was a grist mill.... love this shot taken thru the old granite wheel...

New England is full of covered bridges like this one.. got to love the simplicity of it.

With the amount of snow they recieved this year, the brooks are really ragin with water.

Not to be left out is this not the cutest thing ever, my sister's Bunnie Bunnie on a leash!!! hahaha he loves being outside and OMG my sister is just to darn cute talking and walkin him..

Off to work on a baby scrapbook using the BoBunny word book "Baby" and a stash of LRS kit.

Got to love using up stash... have to as I completely fell in love with some newer lines and NEED them... Work later, but hope to photo some of my layouts from the Aquarium I have made

Peace Out.

Until next time!

2011-04-01T18:08:00.003-05:00

One of the few photos from my recent Boston trip to see Mary Poppins and Family.My son Josh just turned 22 and I got to spend time with him chatting and eating. Got to say it is a weird feeling the first time you have a drink out with one of your kids! Also have to say he was pretty much the only family member who WILLINGLY let me take a few photos... love love love that he did.. was pretty much grumpy icky faces all around except him. Thanks son!

Trip to Boston to see Mary Poppins, the Boston Opera House was great! Loved the architecture and the show was good... Random Boston photos and one or two from the subway... Enjoy

Jennifer and Sarah with forced smiles :-(

Mural on wall at State Street Subway station

View of city sidewalks

Dusk, lights coming on

Really wished I could have taken photos of performance... but this will be scrapable :-)

Sarah with her new shirt...

Crafty Creation for my Sister Cindy! I had so much fun doing this, I NEED to make one for myself now.. Used a wooden birdhouse from Joann's and adhered paper to front, paint and sparkles with a bow on top!! walaaaaaahhha

Paper from the LYB Twig Line, ribbon random from my stash, paints were old stash making memories (remember all those fun little bottles?) and Sparkle Mod Podge to finish it off.

Front

Back

Ready to be wrapped!

Until next time!

TGIF

2011-03-25T20:59:00.002-05:00

How come the first couple days after a vacation you feel refreshed and rarin to go, and wham day 3 knocks you on your butt!?!?! lol Had a wonderful time with family on vacation and work has wiped me out this week, thank goodness I have this weekend off trying to recuperate.

I was not able to get as many photos as I wanted to (family were all grumpies) sigh... but my dear son stood and just let me take his.. OH how I love this young man and miss him so much. We did get to spend time together and I am so hapy for it.
I will get photos loaded up and possibly posted tomorrow. I also have been scrapping my latest trip to the Aquarium and making some cards... so I have been busy even if not here..
I do appreciate those that stop in and check out my random chatter... Thanks and I look forward to catching up on my blog friends
Until next time!

Short Vacation

2011-03-10T09:45:00.001-06:00

Don't worry, I'll be baaaaaaaaaack..... lol
Taking a trip east to visit family and see Mary Poppins!!! woooohoooo
Will update with photos on my return... Have a great 10 days ladies

Until next time!

Orchids!

2011-02-27T11:14:00.002-06:00

Yesterday, my friend Nina and I went to an Open House for Orchids! I have never seen so many Orchids in one place ~ well maybe the Flower show... but hey that's they way they are.
I fell in love all over again with Flowers.. I could not believe how many different varieties and color combonations there were. Simply Breathtaking, then we had lunch after at Bucca de beppo, another fun place. There is no order for the following photos, I just selected 5 of them to show here, with the last one the type Nina purchased for me.

This is the color and type I have, now to find the perfect spot in my craft room.

It was a great way to spend a gloomy yucky day! Today, I am working on some layouts and cards, I have been busy just not posting them here no reason why, just havent... lol

I do want a trip to Archiver's 30% off coupon burning a hole in my wallet I tell ya!

Did recieve happy mail on Friday - order from Unity came.... I love getting things in the mail, so I guess I will be making some layouts and cards with new stamps soon. I think I am going to start a collection of gifts with homemade cards, and perhaps a fun box for storage.. thinking ahead for birthdays and Christmas. I have been trying to use up stash, but lets face it I NEVER EVER EVER will be able to use all the stuff I have.. Time to weed out some I guess, but how to part with something you loved but now seriously have not even used.. I honestly think I could win the contest for most unused patterned paper. Tell me blog readers what do you own way to much of??
Until next time!

a bit o progress

2011-02-24T15:50:00.003-06:00

So, onward with the Unity story. I placed another where is my order calltoday. Got ahold of Andrea who says she will reprint my invoice and check into it. Verified my phone number and let me go. I waited for about 10-15 mins max for the call back. She did not dissapoint this time. Called back, apologized and told me they shipped out yesterday. :-) Good news for me.. Hopefully they will arrive tomorrow if not then maybe Saturday.
Probably a good think not today. I have felt crummy all day, eyes want to shut, and I never feel this way unless overtired. so possibly a nap instore for me? Hoping to seperate my Aquarium photos and get them ready to scrap.
Until next time!

Shedd Aquarium

2011-02-24T04:38:00.002-06:00

What to do at 4am? Upload photos of Aquarium visit? write on long neglected blog? Think about your recent order at Unity Stamp and have to call and complain about lack of Customer Service? oh yes, the things we think about when we should be sleeping!!!

Last week my good friend Nina and I went downtown Chicago to the Shedd. Love this Aquarium, besides the fabulous view of the Skyline off Lake Michigan, we have a great aquarium filled with lots of fun things, got my photos developed and can't wait to scrap them.
1. Sponge fish

Seahorses, forgot to copy this one so it will mean another few minutes at the photo lab on friday!

Snake fish

Don't remember the name of this one, however it was striking and I love how it came out.

and quite possibly my favorite one, the Starfish

We had an amazing time and best of all it was totally FREE, as part of Target Corporate days!

gotta love free admissions....

Now my deal with Unity. I realize it is a new company and starting to expand however I really expect good, no let me say Great Customer Service everywhere... (so many years of my being in Customer Service)... I love the product they have great stamps for the price and the fact that they are co branding with major paper lines that I use and love. However an email or phone call goes a long way in resolving a problem... I placed an order back in Jan. for some of the new stamps to come out (CHA stuff) expected them not to ship till after the 7th of Feb as they stated when ordering... NOT to mention everytime I try placing an order I have to struggle with the order process... UGH. I paitently waited till the 21st to see if they arrived, nothing yet so I place a call to them on that day. Got in contact with them and was told they were having a snow storm again.. and should get an email later that day or the next.. ok, i'll be paitent a bit longer... it's now Thursday and no response so I will have to call them later again.. In the meantime I did recieve my kit of the month, questioning wether to continue with it or not now, Service goes along way with me. sorry to my few feaders, but I am tired remember I said it was 4am... lol and really just want my stamps... hehehe....

I did pick up some small 4 x 6 paper pads from the new Stella Rose line by My Minds Eye... oh they are so pretty... these smaller versions have the smaller prints, great for Cardmaking makes me think of Kristii and her amazing cards...

Until next time!

Long Time NO Blog!

2011-02-04T19:51:00.003-06:00

Hello Blogland~ Happy 2011~ I have been reading everyones blogs, but just found it easier to post on FB ~ I truly have missed blogging here though and figured I would post tonite. I have been crafting, not sure If I posted these two layouts before I got lost.. lol

This was created with the Jillibean Soup Christmas line this year, I loved how it came out, now just really need a photo to put on it. :-) Huge hint to my sister to send a couple along...

I created this one for my Niece Sarah's album when my dad visited. I jsut love the Unity Stamps.... so much I joined their Kit of the Month.... Yikes...... but so worth it so far. I got my January set and love it, looking forward to the new releases too, I ordered them all up! lol

the Banner is Unity and the Owl and trees are from the Bella Blvd. Honey I'm home set.. If you have not gotten any of these stamps I strongly suggest you check them out... they are great.

Now on to Snowmageddon 2011 as we were calling it in the Windy City. Actually when all was said and done and the sun was shining I was in heaven... Love this photo of the front of the house. But longing to forget the 45/50 mph wind gusts while trying to shovel... snow drifts 3 / 4 feet high, and of course on to -negative degree temperatures....

This was our street the very first time I had to ever call off work and had a real "snow day" was because the STREET was not Plowed... lol our neighbor took his snowblower and created a snow maze in the street to get across.... gotta love it.

I loved this little Owl flag I picked up at Michaels, it really brightens the front yard with all this snow.. Just barely can see it now :-)

This past fall and on into winter has been amazing for my Bird watching hobby. I have finally lured a few Blue Jays to our feeders Up to 3 at once... lol

Also a White Breasted nuthatch, they are now coming in pairs, I have the Red Breasted ones also but no photos of them yet

Oh MY! and yes I even have a Red Tailed Hawk that comes from time to time lookin for a snack or two.

This was pretty amazing to see, last month I had a huge flock of Robins at the waterfall in yard.. they were so excited to stop and visit. Also the day after the snowstorm they were eating the berries off front yard tree!

Until next time!

Life goes back to NORMAL~

2010-12-25T16:49:00.005-06:00

Christmas has come once again~ I hope all my family and friends had a wonderful time. Kerry and I went to inlaws Christmas Eve and spent our Christmas day relaxing.

I got this wonderful metal trash can all decorated/painted up by my sister in law! I love it, it is to hold some of my bird seed. I can't wait to use it, but wanted to photograph for friends to see.

rotating around the can

another rotation

one last rotation

The top cover.

I also found my envelope templates at the last minute and made a couple "pillow boxes" for treats, will have to remember these for Valentines day and Next Christmas, so easy, so fun, sooooo many compliments! lol

Papers are LYB Christmas Delight! Free hand bird, MM ribbons, random brown twine

stamp = not sure who to credit, have had it for a few years now and label is worn off.

Same papers, stamp, ribbons totally different look! I see so much versatility with Valentines Halloween, Next Christmas!!! etc.. I used a smaller template and made a tiny note card to insert inside for a coworker (no photo) and used the box as the envelope She LOVED it.

Possibly the whole worlds favorite Christmas/Winter paper line. Snow Day by Crate paper, I'm in love with it. I made a ton of cards using it, for thank yous and various occasions - maybe photograph some later.. But this little box was picked up at Walmart, painted and decorated the top. I spy something cute and little going inside? Or just looks cute sitting on my shelf. :-)

We had snow for Christmas Eve.. it was so pretty this morning too. I have been watching the birds at the feeders all day, BlueJays, Cardinals, Downey Woodpeckers, Juncos, Mourning Doves, Ginches, Sparrows, and I now Have White Breasted Nuthatches (a couple weeks back I had spotted Red Breasted ones too) I'm trying to attract some Tufted Titmouses.. we shall see....

Aglimpse of my tree this morning.. Kerry and I really didn't get much for each other, we both tend to get stuff all year, but since I LOVE Christmas so much (kerry not so much!) lol we do a few trinket things..

Prime rib has been cooking allllllll day, smells so yummie I think its about time for dinner. Looking forward to blog hopping this week to see photos from my friends and there festivities. I am anxiously awaiting some photos from my sister Cindy of Christmas Eve with family at my Dad's last nite. So sad that I work retail and have not spent a Holiday with my family in 8 years... breaks my heart, but I will go on. Hoping 2011 allows me to go home for the Holidays. I really miss it. Love and Peace to all!

Until next time!

Happy Saturday!!

2010-12-04T10:38:00.005-06:00

The first snowof the season, that accumulated to anything! It's actually still lightly snowing at 11am!

I spy something RED!!

These little critters love my feeders as much as my birdies

Peaceful pond, notice the snow on the rooftops of my birdhouses?

No pictures to prove it (yet) but I had 3 Blue Jays today in the trees feeding. I have has a solitary Bloe Jay for a bit now... wonder if they are family??? lol

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas at my house. I love these trees don't you? They are actually supposed to hold Christmas cards at the top, but I just loved the way they fit on my entrance wall and left them! Scored them at Home Goods a couple months ago I just love Home Goods, so many great finds.

I did decorate my tree early this year first time ever it was up before Dec. 1st, that ususally has been the "tree day" in my home.. I guess I am so thankful to have a home and place to put my tree up that I wanted to enjoy it as long as possible. To me the best gift I have recieved this year has already come, when my dad surprised me with a stopover visit.. I am so blessed to have my dad with me still I love and miss him everyday!

I love this Christmas Cactus. It was a gift from my friend Marcia many years ago, probably 10! I have moved from Massachusetts to Illinois with it. The counter it is on suits it perfectly for blooming every year since I recieved it, a beautiful reminder of a great frienship!

Snowmen are cute and fun! I just love this tea lite candle holder I got a number of years ago, it is one of my decorations that just make me smile everytime I see it and stays up long after Christmas.

Not truly a Christmas decoration, but hangs up all year. I change out the ornamental hangings to meet the seasons. This time of the year it's birds what else... lol They are actually a set of 3 I recieved from sil for Christmas one year.

Working on Christmas cards and some gifty crafty things today.. Wrote out the first group of cards last night, and trying to finish them up this weekend.. Monday hopefully will be mail the card/gift day, I love to get things done early and concentrate on ENJOYING the holiday!

Just finished "Postcard Killers" by James Patterson, he has to be my all time favorite author, I am never dissapointed. Started "Deception" by Jonathan Kellerman. If I didn't have so many projects running in my head I would be stuck in my chair reading all day... but alas I am up and about, hehehe but still in PJ's just thought you would want to know.

Until next time!

Crafty creations

2010-11-25T11:12:00.004-06:00

Can you stand it! Another post in same day from me lol
I've been busy scrappin and crafting using up stash, ok and purchasing some newer stash but then I am a paper hoarder....... :-)

Woodpeckers love suet and my feeders.

Summertime flowers ~ first time I had either of these bloom nice surprise

Lazy kitty

Butterfly Weed in my garden with a nice bonus surprise!

The best photo I have scrapped this year!!! Love that Dad visited me and I got a great shot in my front yard for proof. Love this man he is definately my Hero, taught me everything I know and is the best dad ever.... Love you and miss you lots!

Until next time!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T10:16:00.003-06:00

Hope all my bloggin / scrappin friends have a wonderful Turkey day with your families. Take lots of photos! I'm going to inlaws this year as mil was not feeling like coming here. So Kerry is cooking turkey over there! Told him call me when ready... lol

I have been scrapping and card makin like crazy here. Lots of photos/layouts completed using up stash and some newer products too. I should take photos and post, but just haven't, maybe todays post will be the lucky one.. we shall see.

Went to Circus last night with good friends from work. We had a blast, can't wait to scrap these photos.. I think a Circus mini is in order don't you? Those I have uploaded to FB, but I will post some here. We had awesome seats, and all access tickets, meaning we could go right down on the floor before the show and interact with the performers.. so we got some great photo ops! Awesome score for scrapbookers huh?

She was the cutest little clown~

with the biggest feet! lol

The body benders~ OMG~~ these girls were contortionists.. amazing movement.. I just hurt watching them!~

The Torres Family~ 7 dirt bike riders in a cage.. was fun to watch.

The newest addition to the Circus ~ Baby Barack with his momma Bonnie.... so cute, and very hairy little one.

Until next time!

Surprizes are the best things.

2010-11-09T22:34:00.002-06:00

No photo today, but I will get one tomorrow or 2 or 3... lol
My dad came to visit me the first time since I moved here 8 years ago. I was not expecting anyone, and Kerry came to the craft room and said you have a visitor. hmmmm I never get company figured it was my sil with puppy..... NOPE , it was my DAD... he was stopping in on his way back from stepmom's grandsons wedding in Iowa, I never knew he was even drivin out for that... So I scrambled to get tomorrow off and will work thurs this week. Looking forward to a couple photos tomorrow and a few more hours visiting before he heads on back to Massachusetts. gotta LOVE IT
Until next time!

And the STASH goes Down!

2010-11-06T10:44:00.004-05:00

So remember my Old photos use up stash challenge to myself? I have been working on these and happy with the results.
This is my niece Sarah, she always was dancing in her party dresses. I used to make all her dresses when she was little. And I believe at 13 she still has them all in their attic, my sister Carrie had a hard time passing them on.. so who knows.
Dance ~ Used Junkitz again, pp's and stickers. Random buttons and New Jillibean courrageted letters.. love em.

Some old DCWV paper stack, Scenic route stickers and journal spot. Daisy D's buttons and Halloween ribbon for Josh's book

And one to record and recognize my Mother in laws battle with breast Cancer!

Bazzill basic card stock, Basic Grey Bittersweet pp, Quickutz Storybook font alpha for "Cure"

random mini brads and stick pins. Celebrate it ribbon from Michaels, Fancy pants flowers with Michaels recollections pearls, Scenic Route "make a wish" sticker, and New Unity Vintage Banner stamps!!! o I am loving this stamp line.

Finished up another gift for my best friend Rosa, another 7gypsies not postin here as she occasionally checks out my blog to see what I am up to and I know If I post she will have that sixth sense to look.. lol

Remember last Christmas my Cockatiel laid eggs? oh dear I think shes gonna do it again.. Honestly I tried not to LOVE her tooo much.... Shes acting like shes going to do it again. So stay tuned for further developments on that front.

Finished "Fragile" by Lisa Unger and loved it, definately would reccomend this one!

Need to grab my Passion Tea Lemonade (homemade knock off of Starbucks) and head to store and library. Hope you all have a great day, and thank you to anyone who takes time to check out my blog and leave comments.

Ilove hearing from you all!

Until next time!

New Month = New Layouts

2010-11-01T09:36:00.002-05:00

Stash, MME Wild Asparagus
7Gypsies tag, Paper Studios brad, Quickutz owl with WRMK stash paper! total stash project :-)

Stash~ Bazzill cardstock ~ Pink Paislee Vintage Moon sticker and chipboard border ~ kraft
journal tag kraft kuts by Fancy pants ~ DCWV title block another full stash project :-)

Bazzill cardstock~ Junkitz Christmas paper and Gift sticker ~ celebrate it ribbon bow on present~ stash, New Jillibean soup journal tags Chestnut Soup Christmas

Finishing up another layout with stash today :-) somehow using up older photos is making me dig and use up stash, I should continue on this pattern as I do have plenty of Older photos and stash to work with.... I mean who doesn't Is anyone truly ever caught up on scrapbooking? I started in 1998 and have no way put a dent in photos I have hangin out in my closet... but I so feel that working with them I am accomplishing something good, I hope my family will treasure these for their lifetimes.. I have been trying to fill up some post binders for Jennifer, and Sarah, Josh to send them off for Christmas.. Probably will keep Josh's as I am not sure he is ready to be responsible for them. But I know Sarah and Jennifer will love having them.

Finished up my book "She's gone country" FUN read~

Starting another one today "Fragile" by Lisa Unger starting off great.... should hook me in and be one of those I can't put down books.

So Trick or Treat went well here. Kerry handing out candy since I had to work :-(

we had 3 pieces left in the bowl... yes 3! but then again I didn't purchase oodles of candy, its so expensive these days, and I didn't want tons left over. No halloween photos to scrap :-( sighhhh

hope everyone got some great shots.

Until next time!

Still Crafting~

2010-10-29T09:05:00.002-05:00

Finally using up more stash!! I have been scrapping a group of old photos I came across on my vacation last week. Along with the memories I have been able to use up some stash!
Christmas photos for my nieces album
MME papers tags = stash
LYB~ ornaments and word memories, and blitz ~ new
JBS~ joy tag new
and I have discovered I like embossing templates, = New Tim Holtz Alterations textures Holiday Words
White cardstock ~ American Crafts

My sweet baby girl at 3 days old!

MME ~ Wild Asparagus line, and tags ~ stash

Quickutz alpha ~ Katie I love this font!

Bazzill shimmer cardstock and random brads.

Another layout with the Unity Vintage Banner stamps!! I totally love this set!

Pokemon Princess = Stash MME Laundry line exclusive paper pack to Archiver's for the pattern paper

Random mini brads and buttons

American Crafts Cardstock

Fiskars circle punch with Making Memories tiny alpha stickers

I have another layout on my table to finish up using stash also. It's such a nice feeling to finally be using these products. I really need to concentrate more on just choosing a photo and then digging in stash to see what works with it. Problem is these new papers that come out just scream at me in the store.... pick me pick me... lol

Finished reading "A Secret Kept" by Tatiana DeRosnay... she wrote Sarah's Key which I was enthralled with and think everyone should read. This newer book just was not as good in my opinion, I figured out the "secret" fairly early, and then just felt I needed to finish the book to see how it played out.. really not going to be on my reccomendation you MUST read list... lol but to each is own.

Started a new one "She's Gone Country" by Jane Porter so far its enjoyable... light reading. The library called has somethings on hold, so I am off to return and check out new reads! Wonder what is in store.

Work tonite... UGH I really need to win the big lottery so I can stay home and craft/watchbirds/blog/check out facebook/ and do it all over again..

Until next time!

Birdwatching

2010-10-23T17:06:00.002-05:00

I love watching the birds through my window! I am blessed to have such a great view and work hard at getting different birds to visit. Yesterday I had my cute little "Red Breasted Nuthatch" visit the feeder again, these are common in IL, and I used to have plenty back in MA but this little one appeared about a week ago and has been coming by daily. As you can also see I do have a frequent visitor "Mr. Squrriel" I really don't mind them visiting for a bit (I mean they need to eat too right?) but when they park at the feeders and gobble all the Special Attraction seed, I say enough is enough and shoo them away!!! lol

I also have a solitary BlueJay who visits. I have been trying to catch him on photo for a bit and finally was able to, not the best photo but I'ts proof!!! lol

And this beauty came to visit today, stopped twice on my bird baths, (GREAT photo OPP MISSED) ugh... but he did come back and I caught this one. I know all Gods creatures need to eat and I am ok with the cycle... but it has to be "to go"~ no dining in!~

Reading "Eight Days to Live" by Iris Johansen, really enjoy her work. Summerland went home today, was fun to have a puppy around for a bit.. I have another layout of my niece Sarah almost complete should get it finished up and posted today/tomorrow. Some rain this morning made it easy to stay inside and read. Sounds like rain in forcast for tomorrow too.. we shall see, as my vacation comes to a close this week I have to say it was very Crafty... but still no Halloween cards made... lol

Until next time!

On a Roll

2010-10-21T19:25:00.003-05:00

Loving me some Unity stamping... I just love this banner stamp set! Scrapping with stash - the Unity that is new... lol Crate Paper Lemongrass and Prudence papers,Bazzill and kraft twine. Photos are of my daughter Jennifer taken a number of years ago.. I found them and just needed to scrap them. Lots of older photos being scrapped this week.

Again Crate Paper ~ Lemongrass and Prudence pp, random ribbon and Bazzill cardstock

More stash and old photo... BoBunny Love Bandit line for pp stickers, and Owl cut using Cricut Cartridge, Give a Hoot I had this pieced together already in a small stash and found it works just great with this paper line.

I need to make some Halloween cards and some sort of treat for co~workers too, but having so much fun with older photos they are just keeping me scrap happy!Dog sitting Summerland for a couple days shes a good dog, kinda a barker (not used to that) but I'm having fun with her anyway. She will be the subject of a mini album for my SIL for Christmas. How can you not love this face?

Well off to look at more old photos, they are just screaming to me Scrap ME Scrap ME!!! lol

Until next time!

Layouts and Cards

2010-10-20T18:07:00.000-05:00

Busy Busy Busy today..... First layouts are the scraps from the last 7gypsies frame
Unity Stamp border~ I am loving this stamp and the border/banner trend
7gypsies tag (preprinted)
Jillibean Soup~ Journal sprouts
Random buttons from stash, Ribbon May Arts and kraft colored twine
All I need now are photos, the first one will hold a 4 x 6 or 2 smaller 2 x3's
second one is sized for 4 x 6

A couple cards utilizing more scraps

I found this photo of my daughter Jennifer at 2mos old with my MEME (her Great Grandmother) taken in the 70's. Got to love the furniture pattern! The sofa was a hand me down from my parents when I got married in '75 :-)

I am loving 7gypsies right now can you tell? Got to love the manila tags printed
Random buttons from my stash, American Crafts cardstock from the Autumn collection
I was diggin in basement stash and came up with the slide holder and acetate word "Generation" how appropriate huh?
When I was in Joann's the other day they had this fabric quarter on sale for .99cents..... and I had to have it, loved the colors as it reminded me of fall, but when I started on this layout I knew I had to incorporate it somehow... all that is left now is to Journal.

I really should be making Halloween cards, but I do have some other photos cropped and just itching to get worked on... sometimes I find my greatest inspiration comes from the older photos I have so many and will never get them done, but keep working on them.
I am so loving my Fall Vacation.........
Until next time!

And The Vacation Rolls along~

2010-10-20T09:02:00.005-05:00

Hello Blogland Friends

Really been a relaxing vacation so far.... Yeahhhhhh :-)
Day 3 produced another 7 gypsies frame for my middle sister.

I was able to use up some Stash... Who out there remembers Teresa Collins' Junkitz Line going back to 2007 now ya all... lol I loved this Christmas line Homespun Holiday... and given the fact that us paper hoarders always get at least 2 or more pieces of each design I had plenty left to make this, Create a layout page(thinking ahead with blank spot for photo/photos) and a card so far....Will post later when photograph.
I will admit I needed to purchase some of the preprinted 7gypsies manila tags, and the Joy and Merry Christmas buttons. I have some Jillibean soup in here and the Cut Christmas tree is a Unity banner stamp turned upside down.. Random ribbon from Michaels Celebrate it line
I must say once you get an idea these little frames suck you in and you just roll along........

While at Joann's I found the cutest reuseable bags... I have really been good about these, and with so many out there on the market I hope someday plastic bags at the grocery/retail stores become a thing of the past!! I know other countries have been doing this for years, why is the US so lacking in somethings ahem... like common sense...... and so great in others like.... the land of opportunity?????
Finished my book, now to look at bookshelf and see whats up next... thing is there is usually no shortage of books to read here only shortage of time! I can spend hours in a book store writing down titles and authors and hours in the library putting them on hold and scouring the shelfs. I should have known from my "Trixie Belden" & "Bobsey Twins" days this would be a lifetime adventure for me.. A good book has entertained me for many hours and days of my life would I change it.. NOT EVER... and to know my dear daughter Jennifer has this habit of mine also warms my heart.

Until next time!

Hello Vacation ~

2010-10-17T18:59:00.004-05:00

I'm so excited to start my Fall vacation off with a beautiful day. Sunshine and warm temps!

~First up a couple layouts I recently completed using up some Scenic Route stash, the butterfly was a photo from my sil garden last year.

I wanted to utilize this color photo from last Christmas of Kerry's family, this is the same photo I used in the 7 gypsies frame for his sister. Using up last years stash by Imaginiese, random ribbon and Jillibean journal sprout.

This was last weekends view of my neighbors tree, I can view it from my patio in my back yard, I am so glad I took this shot as this weekend it is bare!

Summer pots, filled with mums make me smile. I am happy I got 3 different colors makes them shine!

Here is my next Christmas gift I completed today for my youngest sister... go me.!! I used NEW stash... lol the paper was from The Little Yellow Bicycle Christmas line. Random snowflake buttons, some stamping and I got that little snowman angel hanging from the ribbon at Michaels.

Currently reading "Poison" by Sara Poole a new author, it is a tale of the Rennasiance and has me hooked into it. Plans for this week to read, scrap, make Halloween treats/cards and another 7 gypsies frame this one a Christmas theme for my middle sister.

Newsflash~~~ I have the best husband ever.... he just walked in with a Pumpkin Blizzard from DQ!!!! woot woot I'll be back soon, going to enjoy my treat!~

Until next time!

TGIF!!

2010-10-08T19:09:00.004-05:00

What a long week it has been for me. Nothing drastic, just that Friday took foreva to get here... lol

I have been reading : Whiplash by Catherine Coulter

Death Echo by Elizabeth Lowell

Ghost Moon by Heather Graham

and a stash of books to plow thru from the library. Weather today was 80 degrees, its the middle of October, I wish this could last for rest of year but I truly know better. Before long it will be a much different view out my windows, but for now this is one of the beauties of nature I get to see A Downey Woodpecker, I have both males and females that visit... :-)

Remember my bird houses from earlier postings, well the little birdies are checking them out again, looks like they might be looking for shelter against what they know is coming!

I was blessed to see my first "Red Breasted Nuthatch" here in IL.... this week, hoping it returns again so I can get a photo of it.. and I am still chasing that illusive Blue jay photo.. Funny thing is for years I really admired the birds but never had a desire to photograph them but they are such a part of my life now I want them all captured in my scrapbooks.

I am hoping to get some cards (Halloween/Thanksgiving/Christmas) done this weekend, and maybe another present... looking for inspiration everywhere. Thanks to all my great blogging buddies, I do not have to look far. I do have a couple layouts done will share photos later

Until next time!

1 Gift done, multiples to go

2010-09-27T10:53:00.002-05:00

Yes, I did spend some time scrapping this weekend! Used up some more stash on some existing photos I have wanted to scrap. Very simple photos/layouts but something accomplished and it got me into the "groove" again. So much that I started and completed One Christmas gift... :-)
First up, my Beta really doesn't have a name, last one was Jake so this is Jake too! lol
It was the very first photo I took with my new camera and I was hooked right off.
Scenic Route stash

Now this is a terrible horrible no good very BAD photo of me! lol but I have to scrap me right, the good, bad, and real me... The kids will appreciate it some day.. :-)
My Sparky and Tia (Cat) love each other somewhat amicably... however they both get jealous!
Stash ~ Creative Imaginations ~ Studio 101 Basics.. I have had this paper for about 3 years... imagine my surprize that I finally have a photo to use it with!

Random piece of paper from Fancy Pants ~ Kewl just lying around.
American Crafts ~ Tropical cardstock used for the title cut out with my Cricut Expression ~ Songbird cartridge
American Crafts bird ribbon, random journal spot and button

Which brings me to my GIFT! I saw this at Archiver's as a class coming up, but I just purchased the class kit with my 30% off coupon and made it myself! Love how it came out, and anxious to make another one. All supplies were 7 gypsies except I wanted that Prima Flower in that box in lower left, as I really was not a fan of the patchwork design they had prepared. Ribbon on top was a random piece from my stash.

So all in all a productive weekend was had. I am working on another layout today, not sure if will get it posted but will keep it going Using up stash by Imaginese from last years Christmas line.
Until next time!

Another Month GONE

2010-09-24T12:20:00.007-05:00

Wow, its been a month since I put anything random here. Lots of photos to follow, some projects, some random shots of stuff I am loving now.... First up.... Starbucks Passion Tea Lemonade~ YUM my newest find..... but being frugal... ok cheap and wanting to save $$ I discovered Tzao Passion tea, brewed and put aside with a tablespon Splenda tastes just as good at a fraction of the cost... So you do the math.... 1 Starbucks Venti (16oz) $3.10 vs 1 box Tzao tea (at Target $3.29for 18-20 tea bags I don't remember exactly) It takes 2 teabags to make a Venti !!! Ok so if you want to add lemonade - Simply Lemonade at $2.04 at my Target... Still huge savings!! Score one for me... hehehe

Yes I hae been scrapping and just having fun with whatever photos jump out... Here are some Backyard Birds using DCWV stack

Tia with a kit from Making Memories

My Father in law with some random paper from stash and Basic Grey Monograms sprayed with Glimmer mist

K & Company ~ Susan Winget ~ Nature collection fit this Heron Beautifuly..

Working on a Mini book of my 2010 Staycation! Really really want to travel somewhere but $$ just not there so looking for opportunities to find new things here in our own backyard so to speak... First up Italy!!! woooo hoooo I saw the Leaning Tower of Pisa (well a true replica)!

Just loved this view... it is amazing how many "faces" you can find in just random everyday things.

Then onto Chicago Navy Pier This is a special place for me.. it is the first place Kerry took me when I visited Chicago for the very first time 9 years ago... I still love it today! This is the left side of photo album Used the Mammarazzi Paper line by Bo Bunny

This is the right side with journaling of why I "LOVE" it so much.

This carousel is just beautiful... Looks really old but was made in 1995 for the Pier.

We did take a tour on Lake Michigan (another first for us together) I was captured by the young lad with the very Irish brouge trying to get people to take the tour.... :-)

A nice couple took this one for us.. very very rare photo of both of us.

Another day by friend Nina and I toured this Mandir not too far from our home. Just so peaceful and a beautiful place. I used up yet more stash by WRMK Precious Metal line (I truly have had this in my drawer for Years...) lol

Got a bit creative trying to save some space so I made a number of pages using flip ups with another photo underneath and journal spot on back side of the flip.

Just some random paper, but with a Martha Stewart punch :-)

The grounds were beautiful and so peaceful.. really a nice place to visit

Reading like crazy still I currently am into a romance trilogy by Heather Graham The first book was "Ghost Shadow" now reading "Ghost Night" and looking forward to "Ghost Moon"

Highly recommend "The Glassblower of Murano" by Miria Firono, "The Red Pyramid" by Rick Riordan a YA book very good reading.. I like to keep up with what the kids are reading too.

So I have been good using up stash... but alas the new CHA stuff just sucked me in...

just purchased the Jillibean Soup ~ Christmas Soup line & Basic Grey ~ Wander

Echo Park ~ Life is Good & Crate Paper ~ Snow Day and Restoration

the girl's paperie ~ on holidy and paper girl die cuts and a couple sheets of their paper.. the banner one and the stripes..

Stamp set by Unity ~ Banners

Martha Stewart punches ~ Cherry Blossom, ghosts, ribbon loops

some Prima flowers and a couple 7 Gypsies trays (these are for gifts!)

I will say that I have gotten a number of these things with coupons $$$ saved.. lol but I really can't not have this stuff right... I mean YEARS from now I might just have the "Perfect" photo and yes I will have the "Perfect Paper" to scrap it... see simple justifications...
Until next time!

Life is just flying by!

2010-08-27T11:36:00.004-05:00

Lots of adventure this past month! I can't believe August is almost over summer just flew by. With the economy being what it is we had a "Staycation" lol like so many other people... Oh I spent alot of time reading, gardening, photographing places & things, scrapping, watching tv (USA, TNT seem to have GREAT SHOWS!)

The first two butterflys are from today right in my own backyard!

This Lantana plant has rebloomed late this summer and the birds and butterflies love it.

About a couple weeks ago Kerry and I took a short day trip to visit a Butterfly house in Geneva

there were about 200 inside and these are a sampling of just how pretty they are!

Purple and Orange my favorite colors!

The macros setting on my new camera is automatic and wonderful.

I just thought this one was striking on the walkway don't you agree?

I also spent one of my days off with my friend Nina and we visitied a Mandir (Hindu Temple) it was so peaceful and the workmanship and detail in the Limestone and Teak wook were very impressive!

This is the entrance to the Haveli, it is a Cultural Center. The Teak wood was all Hand carved in India and then shipped here to be assembled.

One of the columns outside

We were not allowed to take any photos inside the Haveli or the Mandir, they even had me surrender my camera!! This Mandir is the Largest in the United States, made of Turkish Limestone and Italian Marble. It was shipped to India to be hand carved and then shipped to Chicago to be assembled!

Fountain in front of Mandir facing the exit

They had topairy sculptures around the gardens. I loved the Giraffe!

Reading list is quite extensive... I really love to read and have a stack of books to get to. Right now reading The Whisper by Carla Neggers. Have today off from work and spending it reading, catching up on blogs and crafting.

Until next time!

Chicago bound

2010-07-28T23:47:00.004-05:00

Remember my last posting? I got to test out my new camera downtown Chicago and was duly impressed. Kerry and I took our first cruise on the lakefront viewing the Chicago Skyline from Lake Michigan... wow!

This is the lighthouse and breaker wall along the shore line to keep the waves at bay.

Possibly my favorite place is Navy Pier in Chicago, I love it! I guess the sentimental value is when Kerry and I first started our long distance relationship, he invited me to Chicago and that was the first place he took me to. Navy Pier in December!!!!! Brrrrrrrrr but I loved it...

This little seagull was definately not afraid of me and I love how the shot came out. He was on the pier as we were walking around.

Who wouldn't love this carousel?

Or want to take a ride on this 150 ft ferris wheel?

Or lunch here? We acutally ate at another place Riva Cafe on the Dock, outside seating... it was great to watch everyone walk by...

The same day I got to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa too!!! Well the replica one built in the sister city of Niles, Illinois it was worth the trip.

Pretty amazing If you ask me.

Ok and this little feathered friend (I now believe it is a House Wren) decided it likes the 2nd floor of my purple house! This little one is actually removing a nail from the house. I can just hear mama bird telling him "not in my nest"! lol

So I do have some layouts to complete, having fun this summer relaxing and reading.. Just finished up How to Knit a Love Story by Rachael Herron another new author found. This weekend is a 4 day weekend for me Woot Woot! I am so excited not sure if we will go far, but I am sure we will do something.. looking forward to more photos!

So here is a photo of my Beta, poor little guy never got a name... lol but takes a mean photo! I loved that my camera automatically set itself to the macro setting and then focused it so I could

get this great shot... double image and you can even see the air bubble!

Until next time!

Thursdays ramble....

2010-07-15T12:04:00.003-05:00

Today another hot hazy humid day of summer!! Gotta love summer time, up until this year the heat never bothered me... now NOT so much>>>>> UGH must be getting hormonal with that ole menopause thing! YUCK.... well enough of that drama, moving on.....

I was happy to see my Purple bird house that bil made me is now home to some little birdies....
I grabbed my new camera (still figuring it out for focusing.. it has a stabalizer that is more sensitive than my last camera) but I snagged a photo of I believe a finch, lol it was removing a nail which was supposed to be the "perch" but they made their own. Will post photo when I get to it..

Working on a couple layouts, figure I will continue doing them and then post together!
Reading ~ The Worst Case by James Patterson
Heading to library to pick up a hold and request some new ones.. Maybe lunch out at Qdoba..?
Off work 4 days WOOT!! Kerry buzy with folks and Dr. appts :-(
Maybe a trip to City for something fun?
Need to win the Lottery..... don't we all?
Until next time!

Already July

2010-07-09T22:46:00.005-05:00

So we all know time flys right? but this year is just whizzing by!!!
I have been so busy with my outside time (gardens, birdwatching etc.) that my poor ol scrapping and bloggin has been neglected.

I did complete a layout today, will photgraph and post tomorrow... I have been reading alot also, just finished up Magic Hour by Kristin Hannah a must read! I loved it, started The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown, was on the waiting list FOREVER at the library. Tonite a trip to Borders brought me lots of new books to put on hold. I love reading so much, but the cost of purchasing said books gets over the top, so I scour the book shelfs and write down authors and titles... then head over to the fantastic libraby and put a hold request on them. :-)

On Father's Day my SIL brought her puppy "Summerland" over... she is adorable huh?

I did make a splurge this week and purchased a new point n shoot camera!!! Woot Woot.... I can't
wait for it to arrive. It is an Orange one :-) Canon PowerShot 14.1MP movel SD1400IS I really wanted to upgrade, but a DIgital SLR is still a bit out of the price reach right now... so I know this one will keep me happy... I was able to get it online at Target, it was on sale, and I used my discount and rewards points and scored a huge savings. Actually made it so worth while.. Now stalking the front door every day!!

A couple of the new Cricut Lite cartridges were a must have a tad pricy but Hoot 'n' Holler and Meow had my name written all over them.. So far they are exclusive to Walmart, hoping the price goes down a bit. I saw a couple more would consider.. It's time for me to start Christmas gift making so these could come in handy.

Until next time!

Summertime Beauty

2010-06-28T12:10:00.002-05:00

So where is the summer going? It is happening so fast, I can barely keep up with it! I love being outside in my yard, enjoying nauture and the gardens. I really miss blogging and keeping this updated, but soon summer will be gone and there will be time to blog then.
I have the pleasure of a hummingbird again this year. They are one of God's amazing creatures. I am totally mesmerized by these little guys. Here is a shot of one enjoying my Bee Balm :-)

and the baby birds are so cute around the yard and the bird baths. This bird bath attracts the most action in the yard, we added some small river rocks in it to make it more shallow and accessable to more birds. They all love it but I think the Robins love it the most. They are so much fun to watch shakin and shimming and just getting cool! Here is one of the young ones

Let's not forget that I have a multitude of feeders and go through hundreds of pounds of seed a year. I tend to by it in 50 lb bags. So always happy when my Cardnials come to visit. I actually have been getting a Bluejay(no photo yet though!) he is attracted to the peanuts I got for him.

I love that my hens and chicks flowered this year, I have never had one flower and it's still blooming too :-)

And just so everyone knows I have gone off the deep end... Trix Swirls not just for kids! lol I have been snacking on these colorful bites... great color combos for summertime huh?

I found a romance author Barbara Freethy I like. Read these books, Suddenly Summer, On Shadow Beach and In Shelter Cove. They all represent a small coastal town called Angels Bay and feature some of the same characters.. Good Summertime reads....

Still creating a bit not much focus on it right now, but keeping eye out for ideas and need to get photos (recent ones) printed out.. Will create as summer rolls on and post.

I really need some vacation down time, and a road trip... hopefully I can get Kerry interested in checking somethings out next month.. as June is about done.

Until next time!

Fun with Kraft

2010-06-05T18:13:00.003-05:00

Most of you know I scrap multiple photos for family members and always try and make them different depending on who they are for.
these for Jennifer's album

these for Josh's album

Joshua's album

and one for Mom!

above were using Kraft paper and random buttons, burlap twine and Kraft kuts by Fancy pants for the pattern papers, stash used up!

Combined DCWV paper stacks for this one Songbird and Flower Shower. Love how it came out simple yet classic style for me.

Today's reading is by Karen Hawkins called "Lois Lane tells All" a fun romance.... catch you laters.

Until next time!

Blooming Cladium

2010-06-03T16:56:00.003-05:00

Quick posting ~ not much going on to blather about, but wanted to share this photo I took of my Cladium plants. I have them in a nice container pot at the back edge of our yard and was surprised to see the bloom on it. I have had these in the past but it never bloomed.

I just finished up a book by Rene Gutteridge called "Listen" definately worth reading!

Baking brownies/cookies today and hope to finish up a couple layouts.. ahhhh summer how I love thee.

Until next time!

Sunshine and Clouds

2010-05-27T12:36:00.002-05:00

Thursdays are a blast.... My day off, working in the garden been up since 5:30am. But got my plants all tied up and tended :-) relaxed and watched a couple mallards visit the feeder and a single bluejay seems to like me now! Whooo Hoooo good bird day!

Kerry finished painting part of a ceiling this am... Thank goodness wanna know how much fun it has been having a 16ft ladder in your living room since Turkey day 2009?? NOT FUN>>>>>> but he treats me so well and never complains about anything.. so in turn I just walked around the ladder and didn't complain.. I love that we compliment each other in this way it's those small compromises that make our marriage work and is stronger than ever!

Working on dual layouts for Jen/Josh books - same photo with both in it and 1 for me.. Using some Kraft papers and it's pulling together nicely. Have used up some more stash... but I do need to confess Archiver's is calling my name loudly..... I did not go yesterday, so far today held off but no promises...
Will post layouts when done...

This weeks first read is by Heather Graham "The Killing Edge" so far good, but she is a tried and true suspense author for me.. so I will like it I am sure.
Until next time!

Random photos

2010-05-23T19:46:00.003-05:00

Tia is too funny, after making sure I am up and paying attention to her she is all about rolling around on the floor. Like look at me... rub my bellie... crazy cat!

I have such a great sister in law! Look at the little garden decoration she created for me for Mother's day. I was aprehensive about putting outside but it's too darn cute not to use.

Looks perfect here in my garden, and all those little birdie statues are the finishing touch.

I did manage to do 1 layout from a SC sketch in my pile to catch up on.. adapted it to 8 x 8

Bazzill cardstock and Deja Views dog days paper pack (from stash)

Remember those brother in law bird houses? well here they are... Don't you just love em.. I do the tops are copper!! even prettier in real life.

So Kerry really hates the heat.. I mean really hates it. I was so lucky he was willing to put these up today for me.. I just love him and the location is perfect. Now just to enjoy and hope that someday some little birdies call them home...

Finished my book Photo Snap Shot! oh my Joanna created an ending I never saw coming! I just love when authors do this! If you have not read this series I urge you to go get them because I am thinking the next one will be the best yet!!

So as I spent the lazy day sunning myself I started and could not put down till I finished it today "Not My Daughter " by Barbara Delinsky another compelling author... This book was fantastic, I have been wanting to read it since seeing all the reviews on FB definately put on your list.

Until next time!

Busy as a bee

2010-05-22T10:43:00.002-05:00

Oh my blog how I have neglected thee!! So sorry, i've been busy as a bee planting, reading, working, watching tv, FB, and longing to blog and craft.. Well enough is enough I'm here today to try and catch up a bit.. Been reading my dear friends blogs and they are so busy too. Lots of LIFE happening all around us this is a good thing!

Current read is by Joanna Campbell Slan called "Photo Snap Shot" I just love her style of writing and of course it helps its about our passionate scrapbooking!!! Kiki is such a treat I never know what she is going to do next. Thank you Joanna and I can't wait for your next book and I am not finished with this one. :-)

Last week was a fun mail week for me (photos later) my youngest sister Carrie and I could be twins we think so much alike and have the same warped sense of humor... I got a great card from her about a memory from our childhood that made me belly laugh all the way to work! I also got 2 had made specially for me birdhouses from my bil :-) I can not wait to put them in the yard they will be a bright fun addition ~~ favorite colors too, Orange and Purple.

Work had been one drama after another this week, one wonders how the younger generation will survive (well at my work anyway!) the group of mangement I have above me are all 20 or 30 somethings who think they are the rulers of the world... lol been there done that... Have to laugh as I have a daughter older than them and a son their ages... I just get into "MOM" mode with them and make a decision / take charge / and move on... yes it really is that simple kids..
Frustration level up because they are the ones who are supposed to be doing this. And my peers and I get paid less, work harder and make more sound decisions than they ever could.... UGH
Enough of that~~ moving on lol I really don't let it consume me it's just one of the things that kept me away from my bloggin and scrapping time...

Gardens are so very relaxing to me, I just love working in them (even the weeding I tend to keep up so it's not bad!) They are coming alive with color and I've planted a few container pots and a couple more perennials... I have been adding one or two to my gardens for a couple years now and it has been very successful and bloom all summer!! Yeah me.
Been raining a bit, but I spy some sunshine heading our way today hope to get out and enjoy it very soon. I have been blessed with a chickadee nesting in one of my existing birdhouses so fun to watch them flutter in and out all day.

Scrapping on hiatus??? Summer time is hard for me due to being outside so much, but I had made a ton of cards and posted couple weeks back... not much since then. Cleaned off work space and did a layout of my sister's family for my "family" book.... really want to do more but that whole it's nice out calls to me... Hope to get something accomplished later today, I am 4 weeks behind on the SC Sunday sketch, I loved doing them and need to get caught up quick..
Until next time!

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T13:23:00.006-05:00

I hope all my Mom friends are having a great day. You are all special women and deserve the best!

I spent the morning relaxing with my book of the week "The Neighbor" by Lisa Gardner.... finished up a Canvas project. and cleaned up my scrap table (the lil birdie called Sparky loves to nibble on anything left out!)

My first canvas.. I used the new BG "Max and Whiskers" line loved it very fun colors. I went to Michael's yesterday and bought the random flowers in the upper right. Button from stash and random twine. Martha Stewart bling on flowers.

I have been making cards lately, not sure what that is all about except I fell in love with the Jillibean soup line with kraft paper!!! It is amazing to work with and just looks so "fresh"

Fiskars flower punch, MM button, DMC embrodiery floss,

Scrappy cat flower stamped and cut out. Fiskars circle punch BG stamp

Quickutz nexting frame , Hand cut birdie, BG stamp

Hero arts sentiment stamp

I did make a SC Sunday Sketch, have to admit I am about 2 weeks behind but will catch up.

Fiskars circle punch, Scrappy Cat stamp image of flower and cut out, random white buttons, and embrodiery floss by DMC

Until next time!

Dick Tracy

2010-04-25T12:27:00.003-05:00

A two page layout of Dick Tracy photos. I used up some LRS kit stash from 10/08! Yes I still have all my kits... Never knew what I was saving them for, the perfect photos? I really am a paper junkie.. I love paper and have more of it than I could ever use in my lifetime. Sigh, but it still doesn't stop me from wanting or purchasing more..
So the paper was Sassafrass and seemed to fit these photos pretty good.

Foam sticker letters by The Paper Studio
Evidence card by 7 Gypsies

Rainy weekend here but was able to do a small bit of rearranging in one of my gardens. Spent time with family yesterday celebrating MIL birthday. Watched all my tivo shows of General Hospital so all caught up again.. love that I can tivo them and watch all in a row, makes it much more fun. Did laundry, and started my book for this week: Deadlock by Iris Johansen.

Looking forward to the SC Sunday sketch ~ I think in meantime I need to make up some Mother's Day cards. I can not believe April is almost over, time just flies by too quickly. Don't forget to stop and smell the flowers and make sure you tell those you love "I Love YOU" everyday!
Until next time!

this is what I think

2010-04-22T17:02:00.003-05:00

Happens on Thursdays, Life slows down and I get to do exactly what I want when I want.. not bad huh?

I did manage to get a couple Sunday sketches by SC done and hoping to move on to my Dick Tracy photos, I am one behind on the SC plan, gotta see what I can come up with before Sunday.

Bella Blvd. Papers Rock!!

Honey I'm Home collection and Bazzill cardstock.

Websters Pages Sweet Willam paper

Quickutz vine border

**** random rubon

Bazzill cardstock

DCWV paper from the Doodlin Around stack

bird and tweet paper from KI Pet Shop Birdie

I have made a few purchases of Cricut Cartridges and LOVE them! Looking forward to more and more items with diecuts.. funny how in the past I never really used punches or diecuts now I love them. I guess my style has evolved from all the great ideas and inspiration we find on our blogs.

Current read this week is Lavender Morning by Jude Deveraux

Hoping for good weather this weekend, but forcast shows rain :-( If that is the case I will have time to scrap and make up some fun cards.

Until next time!

Wow time has flown~

2010-04-15T18:58:00.003-05:00

Who fights crime and talks into a transister wristwatch?
Who wears Yellow and a fedora hat?

Dick Tracy that's who!!
A Naperville resident who helped bring this comic strip to life with drawings and words since 1950 was honored with a 9 foot almost 2,000 pound statue that was placed on the Riverwalk where I live!! Today I took a trip downtown to see this for myself, WOW quite impressive I can't wait to develop this set of photos and scrap them! But also to give you some background information, I photographed the plaque with the info!
See I can be a good blogger when I blog... lol

Informational plaque

Dick Tracy

View from across the Riverwalk area, It really is a beautiful setting, and I noticed a lightpost right behind him that I am sure will be lit up at night. I will be heading back there to check that out and get a photo or two!

This is another section of our famous Riverwalk. It just is so peaceful looking and this area was completely empty at 3:00 in the afternoon. I shot this from my car at a stop light..

I have done a few pages but have not posted yet, will try and complete the above set with the latest SC Sunday Sketch from this past weekend that I have not done yet.

I have been busy in the yard getting some weeding done and planning out what I want to do for container plants this year. Kerry is very flexible as long as we can come up with something that flowers most of the season.. so much like me in that aspect.

I read a great book by Beverly Jenkins called Second Helpings... I should have read the first one

Bring on the Blessings beforehand, but none the less I found it at the library today, so I am kinda reading the backstory... lol since I already read the sequel. I so love our Library system over the 8 years I have been here it has saved me lots of $$$. :-)

Off to watch Bones.... love this show!

Until next time!

Easter baskets ~

2010-04-03T12:09:00.004-05:00

Happy Easter everyone!! How about a little Springtime fun?
I was trying to figure out something different and creative for MIL and SIL for Easter goodies...
I really didn't want to purchase anymore baskets so searched my room for stash!! LOL ~ by the way I have lots of stash!!!

I found these paint pails remember when they were all the rage???? oh yeah I got tooo many back then and stuck them in a corner. Well pulled them out and pondered.. Not my best work, but quickly and easily completed on a rainy morning..

I found these cute bird stakes at Joann's couple weeks back on sale and purchased them for all of us they came in blue, pink and yellow. There is also a gemed stake in the midst, I got some foam for floral arranging and cut one brick in 1/2 and inserted in the pail to hold sticks up. Some Green tulle for ribbon on handle and I had some leftover crinkle shredding stuffed inside too.

I also made the cute Carrot box I found the link on FB under the Cosmo Cricket blog I don't remember who designed them but she gave a great tutorial on how to make them.

But I tried it out and they were soooo easy and darned cute too!

Painted outside with White acrylic paint
streaked MM green paint and brown paint on bottom
added flowers ~ not sure who provided them but I really have alot still leftover
used some sparkle and pearl beaded gems for centers and used wacky tack to stick on pail.

Working later tonite then off at 10... will need to create one more basket for niece and would like to try something fun for FIL this time too.. who knows.
Nothing on the reading list today, finished up The Geometry of Sisters by Luanne Rice last night and need to check out more at library next week. So for a couple days, I will be reading some of my bird magazines and flower mags to look for new ideas for yard/garden...

Until next time!

Need Sleep!

2010-04-01T04:53:00.002-05:00

LOL I'm gonna be sleeping in late in the morning.. oh it is morning.. Got up at 3am and still up at 5 UGH! no reason, probably went to bed too early. I scoured all the blogs, read all my mail, watched for Molly, updated my FB status.. what more can I do, oh I guess I will post a photoless blog update. hehehe

Book of the week is an author who I watch for Luann Rice I picked up "The Geometry of Sisters" the other nite and just started it. Liking it so far, takes place in Newport RI... I love reading books about places I have lived or visited and the East coast holds a special place in my heart, I constantly look for books with settings there. I got a book on tape a couple weeks back for Kerry (that's his version of reading!) and it took place in VT funny thing was it was mentioning a river "Cold River" and there is actually a river near the camp called the same thing. I was aware of this connection, but until Kerry started reading or listening to this book he didn't know about it.. of course he liked it!

SC sketch went up on blog late this week, I have it ready to work on tomorrow ooops later today and will post I think I will be making more than one layout with this one too. I just have done so much with these sketches.. Thank you SC for the inspiration.. if you guys have not checked them out head on over get your mojo going.

Easter coming up fast can not belive its April already.... I am so ready for Spring / Summer looking forward to garden time.. and some fresh ideas. well getting tired again heading off but
Owl see you later!

Sunday Crafting

2010-03-28T13:08:00.004-05:00

Well have you seen Molly??? I am hooked, not to mention I loved Owls before she became popular but now I really love them!! If you haven't checked it out go here: www.ustream.tv/theowlbox

And more wildlife ~ our backyard ducks have been returning everyday now! I love that they find our pond comfy! Here they are taking an afternoon nap in the sunshine

Another sketch based on last weeks SC Sunday sketch~

Stash used up again.

Crate Paper Blue Hill collection was a previous LRS kit!

American Craft blue cardstock

A Fun find last week at Target!! I hardly ever go on the salesfloor, trying to save $$ lol. But this was in a shopping cart ready to reshop (put back on shelf) and I said I'll take care of this... hehehe. Looks great in my room and it is on the wall to the left of my computer so I can see it all the time!

Ok now for the crafting session of today's post.... I am using some of my newer Cricut cartridges and working on some projects and Easter cards/decorations for baskets.. Have you seen these new ones yet they are Fabulous!!

Made this little one with American Crafts Cardstock

and the "Straight from the Nest" cartridge Cute huh?

Sorry this is sideways, but some additional cutouts from same cartridge to adorn something later.

Owl be seeing you!

Owlaholic here!!!

2010-03-24T22:37:00.003-05:00

Yikes, I am so tired lack of sleep last few days from the Overnite shift on Monday.
Too much time staring at Molly, and her owlets Max and Pattison but was well worth the effort tonite. I saw the daddy McGee bring her a mouse for dinner!!!!
I hope to check in on them tomorrow, it's supposed to be yucky weather again, so I will be scrapping and making a couple birthday cards.. Yeah more stash going to get used up and I definately will be using my new Cricut Cartridge!!

Until next time!

OWL Hatching!!

2010-03-23T22:56:00.003-05:00

I was so excited to find this post on LRS about a live owl hatching on
www.ustream.tv/theowlbox
If you have not seen it yet you need to check it out!~
I am sooooo hooked so far 2 baby owls have hatched...

Until next time!

SC Sunday Sketch

2010-03-22T12:39:00.004-05:00

I loved this weeks Sunday sketch!! I was able to pull it together today rather quickly and love the final outcome.. It is a photo I scrapped before but since I scap for multiple family members it's okay to use it again. I love that I can use the same paper line too and it looks totally different!!!!

I used the Crate paper Orbit line again :-)

and free hand cut the border, not thinking I have a border like this on my newest Cricut Cart :-(

will have to look there first nex time.

Stickers and other embellies and stickers part of the Crate paper kit

American Crafts cardstock

Kerry and I ran out for a bit Saturday evening, just to do something and went to a bargain bookstore. I really didn't see anything I was interested in But he found a book for me and surprized me with it. So this weeks read is

Johnny Depp ~ The Illustrated Biography by Nick Johnstone!!!! Swoooooon

Tonite is inventory nite at work means working 7:30pm to 4am... UGH>>> I am not a napper so I will be beat in the am.. Off to make some pasta salad (we bring potluck) and peanut butter cookies.. yummm

Looking forward to having a 4 day weekend It's supposed to be nice Friday,

so I told Kerry that is our Road Trip day to anywhere!!! We both need the time away and I am yearning to see something new and take photos.. I have the new Scooter vacation line by Imagineice (sp) I can't wait to try out.

Until next time!

Long week

2010-03-21T19:11:00.004-05:00

Last week was the longest ever at work, seemed to go on foreverrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr..... lol

But today was start of a new work week, and I have a 4 day weekend coming up!! Woot Woot.

I did 2 sketches last week for Studio Calico's Sunday sketch.. one I love the other not so much, but it's done and in the book! First up the "not so much" one.. lol

Tia and Attumn Leaves Pet collection not really sure what it is but I think was all that blue cardstock.. lol

And the one I loved

This was stash use up for both...

Bella collection by FooFaLa!! for pattern papters, ribbon

and rubon journal spot

Supermarket Quickutz alpha letters and scalloped border

random buttons

Last weeks read was by Melissa Senate and was "The Secret of Joy" good read!

Have not picked out this weeks yet, but will post when I do for those who might be interested.

Looking forward to this weeks Sunday Sketch, need to check it out and get some supplies a moving and groovin...

Until next time!

ScrapLift ~

2010-03-13T11:02:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was a good mail day.. got my CK and my Birds and Bloom mags.. Woot Woot!
I grabbed a cup of Latte and snuggled in my birdwatching chair with Sparky (bird) and Tia (cat). I came across this layout by Jen Jockisch on pg. 81 and knew I would "lift it"
I mean seriously, do you see that pile of books? Lots of the same authors I read, and of course I had a photo ready and waiting for scrapping. I loved the stitching, but didn't want to drag my machine up, so I faux stitched the edges of the scallops and the circles.
got kinda carried away with the circles (but it was covering up the writing I did on the paper
I didn't use lines and when I was done it was all over the place... ) so hence circles saved the layout.!!!

Punched out circles from various Scenic Route papers
American Craft ~ white cardstock
Bazzill ~ orange scalloped
Sassafrass ~ for the lined journaling paper
And Walaaaaa another layout completed.

Just vaccumed my craft room, talked to my sister on phone, cleared of table, and now searching for the next scrappy project. I want to use my newest Cricut Cartridge today, so thats the plan and I'm sticking to it.
Raining again, road trip on hold :-(
Alice in Wonderland a possibility.. we shall see.
But most important I am off work today.. whoooo hooooo! Love time off, thankful I have the job and benefits, but seriously I could be an at home person in the blink of an eye~

Until next time!

Where does time go??

2010-03-12T10:12:00.003-06:00

I can't believe how long since I posted... Yikes

I've been scrapping, reading, catching up on TV... spending time with Kerry... so there it is in a nutshell I have been living LIFE!!!

This weeks Studio Calico Sunday sketch

Used LRS Feb '07 kit

Features Artic Frog ~ Ski Bunny for stickers and pattern paper

Fiskars new limited edition punch for the flower

random button

Chopsticks font for 2009 by Quickutz

Hero Arts December stamp

I got this photo of my Dad from my niece Sarah! She loved the photo and thought I would like to frame it.. I decided to scrap, using a previous Studio Calico Sunday Sketch.. I have to say I love this sketch and have multiple layouts with it.. :-)

Cosmo Cricket ~ Wanted Line

random buttons

random stamped Notes

I would love to say I have done more, but I have made cards with the scrap leftovers.. that counts right? Went on a spending splurge... YIKES.... now back to stash using up... lol

I did purchase some new Cricut Cartridges, got one in my hot little hands right now.. Hope to use it this weekend.. It's "Straight from the Nest" avail on HSN..

I preordered 3 others from Scrapbook Corner and am waiting on them to show up on my doorstep.. :-)

I have been loving the new Bella Blvd. lines so ordered some from A walk down memory lane!

it was all on sale (cricut cart.. on sale too!) so I have been kinda good.. lol

This weeks reading will be "Gone to the dogs" by Mary Guterson.. another new author...Hope to start this today..

Have you all seen there is a new Cricut Challenge Blog starting up. I can't wait for these challenges to start, will be helping me use my Cricut more plus I am really liking the additional boost to get something done.

Hoping to get my couch potato hubby out this weekend for a day road trip, somewhere, anywhere I don't care, just out of town!!! lol I love adventures... Will take photos for sure and document our day!

Until next time!

SC Sunday Sketch & others

2010-03-04T17:15:00.002-06:00

I'm back, with my promised layouts. This one is this weeks Sunday Sketch @

Studio Calico... I enjoyed digging through my older photos to find something that I wanted to use.

This was taken on a trip to Puerto Rico and I believe Jennifer was 9 yo then.. :-)

Stash used ~

Crate Paper ~ Cowgirl Collection

American Crafts cardstock

Martha Stewart punch for the small flowers

Prima for the cloth flower

Circle punch by Fiskars for the scalloped edge on right side

Quickutz nesting for the scalloped square

Also I scrapbooked a couple memories from 2010 Winter Olympics... straight off my tv screen all photos courtesy NBC tv .

Stash used ~

Journey patterned paper from KI Memories.. really old stash!!!

Quickutz ~Chopstix alpha and scalloped border

Bazzill cardstock

Opening night

Shaun White ~ snowboarding

Scalloped nesting circles Quickutz ~ Chopstix alpha

Journey pattern paper KI Memories ~ Bazzill Cardstock

Scenic Route journaling spot

Making Memories Metal Believe

Joannie Rochette

Skating Bronze Medalist

Journey papers KI Memories ~ Bazzill Cardstock

Scenic route journal spot

Quickutz ~ Katie Grand limited alpha

Quickutz ~ maple leaves

Apolo Anton Ohno

Short Track Speedskating

Bazzill Cardstock ~ KI Memories Journey pattern paper

Quickutz ~ Katie grand limited alpha

Quickutz ~ frame nesting for scalloped square

These were my favorite sports to watch and root for the USA teams.. I however do applaud Joannie for her performance and poise under the duress of losing her mom just days before!

Did you know Apolo's middle name Anton means "priceless" I discovered that online today and I totally agree with it.. He is a priceless young man and a definate role model athlete for the younger generation.. in my opinion... lol

Next up on reading is by Diane Chamberlain and title is "Breaking the Silence" can't wait to start it. Oh by the way lunch was great ~ Chineese food is my favorite... along with Lobster and Italian.. What's your favorite food?
Until next time!

Quick Teaser....

2010-03-04T12:36:00.002-06:00

I am finishing up my Studio Calico Sunday Sketch... and will post later, along with couple other photos I worked on this week using a different SC Sketch..

Finished my book Cut, Crop & Die.... LOVED IT!!! can not wait for the next one in May.
I just love Kiki and hope the next book has more of Detweiler... hmmmm somethings up and I hope he comes back, I love the interaction with them. Thanks Joanna for a great read!

Going to eat... how does Chineese sound>> YUMMIE be back later...
Until next time!

OMG!!!

2010-02-28T10:43:00.001-06:00

I hope I don't jinx myself but looks like my BLOG is baccccccccccccck!!! lol more to come later I have to see if it's for real... or my wishfull thinkin.

Until next time!

Blogger Drama!

2010-02-27T16:57:00.007-06:00

Blogger is driving me totally absolutely nutz!!!! Yesterday I get this error message and says my html code is broken, and walaaaaaaaah all mysidebar things got moved to bottom of blog?? UGHsince I am so technically challenged not a clue in the world how to get them where they were.. I decided to create instead...

Here is 2nd page of Jennifer using the Sunday Sketch from Studio Calico and the Scenic Route Sonoma line I can't believe how long her hair was back then!

I got Sarah mail too... I could not wait to scrap this photo for her book.

Stash used up again! Crate Paper ~ Twirl Collection pattern papers

American Crafts cardstock

Quickutz scalloped border

Martha Stewart punch for flowers ~ cornflower

and random buttons

Reading matter ~ Cut, Crop & Die ~ by Joanna Campbell Slan A scrapbooking Mystery.

Today was Library day, and I scored a group of new author books. I love to read, and continually look for new authors to experience. As my reading list goes on I will keep you all updated here.

I have a couple photos from the Opening 2010 Olympics and had them printed today. I planned on using them on the Project 12 Feb page.. Need to do Jan and Feb as March is here tomorrow!

Owl be seeing you!

Where art thou Bella Blvd.?

2010-02-25T12:12:00.003-06:00

I am sooo in love with this company's papers and have moved them to the top of my Want/Need to have list, right under the new Cricut Cartridge releases.. I have been stalking everywhere online trying to find these papers instock..... Yikes no luck yet but I will not cease and desist until I have them... hehehe I need to raid my piggy bank of course to purchase above said items but I think it would be worth it..

This week's Sketch from Studio Calico really works for those old 3 x 5 prints.. Remember them and we thought they were great not those silly square photos from the "Olden Days" :-)

Crate Paper is another <3>

Little Sprout collection works here

with a couple glitter brads

Then moving along in the old photo album, I found these photos of Josh and have loved them for years, finally doing something with them. I hope to put these into an album for him.... Not chronological by any means, but there are some other cute ones from his 1st year.

Again stash used up~ Little Sprout, paper letter sticker and random buttons/ribbons

I wanted to post these, and move on to the next ones. I hope to have a scrappy weekend off and think I will try to hold the photos and not post every single one. hehehe

Willpower.....

This weeks reading is very light another new author actually Young Adult author's Elizabeth Craft and Sarah Fain... I finished their first "Bass Ackwards And Belly Up" and have the sequel "Footfree and Fancyloose " started this am.. definately a reccomendation for teens!

I purchased a new border punch yesterday the Martha Stewart Checkerboard..... I can not believe how addicting these have become.. I never used them much before, but thanks to some of the layouts on Jocelyn and Kristii's blogs and the LRS girls I have gained a new respect for them. Thanks for the inspiration!

Owl be seeing you!

Monday's layout

2010-02-22T12:35:00.003-06:00

So wanted to do this last night, but the Sunday Sketch wasn't up when I was scrapping :-(
Later before going to bed I checked and found it, printed out for my reference book and this morning started digging through old photos looking for something I wanted to work with.
Found these old 3 x 5's of Jennifer and they were perfect for this layout!

Since I have a number of 3 x 5 photos I think this layout could work for me a couple more times this week!! Yea I am so excited I have a 4 day weekend coming up this week and hope to get some scrapping done.

These photos were taken in 1989, Jennifer has always been extrememly photogenic and still is (lucky girl) She was always "Striking a Pose" when I had my camera (which was almost all the time!) I wanted to use the Strike a Pose as the title, but it didn't seem to fit on page when complete... so I moved on to just her name. I do have a couple more photos from this same day and think I will make this a two pager and put the Title on the 2nd one? What do you think?

Stash used ~
Scenic Route ~ Sonoma papers, stickers
(wish I had more of this one but I only got 3 sheets of 3 different ones!)
Borders punched with Quickutz scalloped brown flowers
EK Success for Notebook edge
Martha Stewart for scalloped dotted border
Fiskar circle punch for hand made flowers... Thanks to friend Kristii for inspiration on how to do these!
Uunknown Glitter brads

Until next time!

Lots of nothing :-)

2010-02-18T12:22:00.004-06:00

Another layout with this weeks Studio Calico Sunday Sketch~

Used up some Stash ~ Crate Paper again, I just love the texture of this line of paper...it's a touchy feely paper for me.
Lemongrass line ~ for pattern paper and button embellies and flowers
American Crafts brown ribbon
Quickutz bead border

This weeks reading is "Now and Then" by Jacqueline Sheehan ~ to quote it's "A Magical tale of hope, second chances... and a not-so-little dog". Loving it ! How could one not be drawn to this book, just looking at the cover made me want it.. lol

Have you been to the Olympics 2010, I have... via TV ~ I took this photo of my tv screen opening night of Shaun White. I think he is a great athlete for snowboarding. Why the interest in snowboarding? Josh loves the sport. He started before we moved to Chicago, (we lived very close to a major ski resort in Massachusetts and it was difficult for him to continue here without something so close by. But I got so excited to watch Shaun last nite take the GOLD in the men's halfpipe competition.. I was excited these photos came out so well, I want to scrap them as part of February Project 12 when I get around to it.. I think this is going to be just a one page project book so as to keep closer to getting it done. I still need to do my January page, perchance today???

Go Team USA!!!!!

Until next time!

Sunday sketch

2010-02-15T12:07:00.002-06:00

Sunday Sketch ~ by Studio Calico
Stash used:
Crate Paper ~ Orbit Collection
American Crafts ribbon
Bazzill cardstock for matting
Pearls ~ by Recollections Autumn collectin by Michaels

This photo represents a time in my life when Josh was going through those "growing pains" It was a very difficult time as he moved East and not under the best parting ways either. I was so happy to get this and other photos from my sister. I cried daily and can still cry thinking about this period of time. However this photo does make me Smile because I could see he was physically alright and looked happy! Two years have gone by since then and things are much better between us. It was fun to put this into a sketch... I actually chose this photo due to the area where I could slap the title!!! lol but so glad I did.

I could see myself using these sketches for quite some time to come!
Finished my book Christine Falls and off to search the bookshelf for this weeks read ~ stay tuned for more selections and scrapping

Until next time!

Random things

2010-02-13T15:38:00.002-06:00

Just a little reminder of those "simple everyday things" that make me love Kerry. The 8th anniversary passed last week :-) and I wanted to scrap the memory, so when I am older and grayer I can look back and Smile.

No sketches involved here, just one photo journaling and I was done.
Pebbles ~ So Tweet pattern paper
Bazzill cardstock
Studio Calico Free downloaded tags for Valentines (I used a punched circle of the heart on popup dots)
Stampendous Stamps ~ exclusive to Archivers for the little love journal note

Watched the opening ceremonies last nite for the Olympics I enjoyed the "tour" of Canada my heart goes out to the Team, Family and Friends of the young man who died on the luge. Such a tradgey. I was in awe of the moment of silence. It truly was a defining moment of the ceremonies. So many people and you could have heard a pin drop!

Got a hair cut today.. whew I have needed one for so long and just never got there. LOL but today was the day, I woke up and was this is it no more put my straight stragley hair up in a clip... Took about 2 1/2 inches off gave it some layers and I feel better.. Not sure if I will get an updated photo we shall see.

Got a couple movies lined up for later, Kerry hasn't been feeling all that well and wanted to couch potato it.. lol and that is different from when hes feeling ok how????
Engrossed in my book ~ Christine Falls very good read.
Wanting to scrap some more this weekend. Maybe later when it's dark out right now the sun is shining through my window and it's a blessed sight to behold.
Tommorow is Sunday!! Look forward to the Studio Calico Sunday Sketch I know I will create something for sure then.
Until next time!

Hanging by a toe!

2010-02-11T15:56:00.002-06:00

My backyard critters ~ well ok front yard here.. never cease to amaze me.This little guy was hanging precariously from the branch and the wire on the bird feeder. They are clever and eat the sunflower seeds. I don't mind them visiting occasionaly, but lately I have
more critter action than birds :-(

Not too much else going on here, went to Michael's this am and picked up a new Martha Stewart punch called Daisy Dot.. I'm finding I like these punched out borders for my pages and cards, thanks to all the inspiration I have found at Studio Calico using the Sunday Sketches... Today they have a great Valentine's tag download FREE so hurry over. I downloaded them already and think they have multiple possiblities.

This week's read is a new author Benjamin Black called "Christine Falls" it's set in Boston and Dublin in the 1950's so no wonder I was drawn to it... hometown and dream country.. lol So far so good!!
Need to get my butt in gear, wanted to bake cookies for co~workers for Valentine's treat, and since I am off this weekend need them tomorrow, not sure If I will pull it off, or not. But I planned on using the Tags mentioned above on them we shall see....
Until next time!

Quick post and run!

2010-02-08T13:05:00.002-06:00

Sunday was my 8th wedding anniversary!! I awoke to find this display sitting on my makeup table! Do I have the best Husband or what??? I think so he's the best for me...

These orange tulips have opened up nicely :-)

I took this one on the macros setting on my camera, looks pretty good, can't wait to have it printed up and scrapped.

So many books ~ so little time!

I have been an avid reader for years, as far back as the "Bobsey Twins, and Trixie Belden... remember them? Going from the bottom of the pile up, I have been sucked into these books and would reccomend them to everyone. Something different on them all. So the bottom 4 have been read and I will be passing them on to one of my BFF from work....

Sunday Sketches by Studio Calico have been so much fun for me! I get to scrap, use up stash and try out new things...all plus factors in my book! And furthermore, it scraps a photo of ME!!! :-)

another 2010 goal met.

Jennifer (my daughter) and I in Maine

You know how you buy paper and then stash it never pulling it out and wondering years later why you bought it to begin with? Yes that is me, I am a paperaholic... something draws me to a paper line and I have to have it... and so on .. but makes for fun searching for something different to use.. and end up kinda liking it.. hehehe

This was American Crafts cardstock

Daisy D's - Autumn collection from a few years back

Stickers, patterned paper are from this collection

Used my Quickutz scalloped border and bead dies for this.

Random buttons from collection

Until next time!

New Sketch

2010-02-01T09:20:00.003-06:00

Here it is this week's Sunday Sketch from Studio Calico!
I anxiously awaited this sketch (and revisited and created with the previous ones) all day yesterday. Well when this one came up I was ummmm I don't know not sure if I can work with this! Mainly because of photos, not sure I could readily find something to crop 3 x 4 in size!!! Yikes, but dug alittle bit and came up with this.. Concept of layout was easy to use, struggle for me will be photos, but I am sure I could dig deeper and have lots of fun with it.

I used a LRS kit from May '08 Yes I have all my kits still. Good thing the end of 2009 and 2010 is all about using stash for me.. ;-)
This kit featured SEI papers! The Dill Blossom collection
Rub on Believe ` MM
unknown scraps of lace
SEI Brads
Prima Flowers
American Crafts ribbon for flower stem
Stickers ~ which I rarely use SEI

Thanks for looking!
Until next time!

Another take ~

2010-01-31T13:01:00.003-06:00

Ok, we all know we can scrap the same photos multiple times and It is ok... I do this quite frequently as I scrap for multiple family members and sometimes the same photos come into play. Like these from Maine. I did this one for my own album (previously seen for Jennifer's album) This is a Sunday Sketch by Studio Calico~ Have I said I am loving their sketches and finding them so easy to make my own... Ta Da!

Same photos ~ Scenic Route papers again, Quicktuz flower and scalloped border (I am quite loving these diecuts) Cricut for circles and EK success for the 5 tiny stars... wow I have not used that punch in forever surprising that I knew I even had it.

Hope this weeks sketch is just as fun can't wait for it to get posted.... off to stalk the Studio Calico site.....

Until next time!

Sunday randomness

2010-01-31T10:07:00.003-06:00

Yum, who loves good Mexican food??? I do I do..... Thursday was girls nite out with a couple of my Besties from work. We had a blast, and tried out this new place. One of the girls had a coupon for $25.00 off when you spent $35.00 great deal. (not including drinks but worth it) Of course we were all about saving cash... the food was fantastic and the Margaritas and company was better. Looking forward to next months outing. We decided once a month to do something like this.. Yeah for fun in twenty ten!!

Last weeks Studio Calico Sketch was fun, and I created another layout with it last nite. Waited till today to photograph and post. My dad is my hero, I have learned so much from this man and continue to learn from him everytime we talk. I really need to get some written down information about his past and document it for future generations.

Dad~

I used up stash again.. loving the sketches and use of materials on hand. I even made 3 small thank you cards with the leftover pieces.. go me!

K & Company Urban papers and stickers

Quickutz flowers

Cricut George and Basics for Circles ~ loving my Expression!!

American Crafts cardstock ~ Earthtones

Can't wait for this weeks sketch to get posted, I am all over this process like a wet noodle or white on rice.. lol In meantime I am duplicating the sketches I made for Jennifer's book for my own mixing up the scenic route colors a bit, but still doing the Studio Calico Sketches.. probably will not post not sure yet, as they are same style as last week.. who knows, will wait and see.

Finished up The Weight of Silence yesterday.. Definately a book worth reading! It was this authors debut novel, and if she writes another one like this I would read it. This weeks reading list is by Holly Chamberlain called "One week in December" it's off to a good start and of course it doesn't hurt that it takes place in Boston and Maine!!! :-)

Last nite Kerry and I watched The Ninth Gate with Johnny Depp, I purchased it last week on sale at Target.. and now it's sitting with my "Depp" collection... I am anxiously awaiting Alice in Wonderland this year with him as the Mad Hatter... I just love his work, he has captured my attention since 21 Jump Street... who remembers that show?

'Until next time!

"Tweet" Sketch

2010-01-28T11:20:00.004-06:00

I Love how this weeks Sunday Sketch from Studio Calico turned out!

I really can see myself using this one over and over again. Best part is I have been doing these sketches every week since they started this challenge. Go me!! lol

Last of the Maine photos for Jennifer's album. A slight break away from that Scenic Route, but this "So Tweet Collection" by Pebbles was just called to this photo and layout... I kinda wish I had done this one for my own book, sighhhhh but I will use this sketch again for some other birdie type photo I am sure.

American Crafts cardstock
So Tweet Collection papers by Pebbles for patterned papers.
Quickutz again for flower and scalloped border
Technique Tuesday's stamp for "home"
Cricut "George and basics for circles"
Freehand Bird
Martha Stewart punch for the bottom border

Bitter cold out again, our winter thaw lasted about week and 1/2! but the Sun is out and that makes a huge difference in your attitude. I so love being outside winter is tough for me when its bitter windy cold.. hard to sit and read with that type of weather... lol

On this weeks reading list is "The Weight of Silence" by Heather Gudenkauf ~ new author for me and I can't put it down. Music is "Songs from the Heart" by Cletic Woman.

Until next time!

One more layout

2010-01-25T11:09:00.000-06:00

Ok, so I hurried up and finished this layout. Plain, but with bright colors and it's done.. lol
I have a bit more journaling in the pull tab on upper right :-)

Until next time!

Do we ever have enough time?

2010-01-25T10:02:00.003-06:00

Long weekend at work! Not crazy busy, but steady enough not to get everything done. But do we really ever have enough time at work? I vote no... lol there is always something that needs attending to. And there are always many people wanting too much done and not enough time or people.. so goes the way of retail... shruggin.... we do what we can.. that's all, and I do not stress over it, afterall there is always tomorrow and you all know NO one is going to do it for you!!
Watched the football game with Kerry last nite.. enjoyed the time, sorry the Vikings lost but my point being the "team who has there game on" will win and that's what happened, couple bad calls for both teams, some bad choices but in the end "they" have to live with those choices not us. For us it's entertainment...
Here are last weeks layouts no sketches here, my own layups lol
Still using up that Scenic Route paper, will be sorry when it's gone, but it just seems to work great with these Maine photos . American Crafts cardstock seems to be my go to.. or Bazzill the colors just speak out to me.. I have another layout on table, hope to finish up today and get posted. Quickutz border for the scalloped edges and the flower..
Sister Carrie ~ shes the youngest of the 3 of us and the most like me in personality :-P

I want a line of these chairs for my yard don't you?

Other news, rain for last couple days washed away all the snow! We have greenish brownish grass lol not for long though winter is not over here in Chicago we usually get about 50% of our snow in Jan/Feb... so can't put those boots away just yet!
So make time to scrap/read/whatever you like to do... there is always time just waiting for you to make a choice.. and I choose fun time... hehehe
Until next time!

to sketch or not to sketch?

2010-01-18T11:42:00.002-06:00

Studio Calico has been doing Sunday Sketches for 3 weeks now and these are my takes on last weeks ~ Nubble light

and this weeks ~ Maine take on the sketch Love the "Scenic Route" line will miss it!

Got to use my Cricut ~ George and Basics for the circles, quicktuz for the star and flowers

and the scalloped edge border, ek success notebook punch... and of course stash...

These are for Jennifer's album as I move on in my Maine photo collection.

So in other words to sketch or not to sketch? I loved these layouts once completed, but part of me was too wrapped up into making them look as close as possible to them.. Going forward I know this will be easier and not so time consuming (seems took me forever to duplicate them).

I know they are for the basic idea but my mind is like if you are duplicating it you need to follow it .... lol

Until next time!

a bit of this and a bit of that

2010-01-16T16:01:00.005-06:00

Today was a crafty day, Kerry spent the morning sleeping and I was busy creating a few more pages to finish off Carrie's book from our "Girls Day" I think she will enjoy the book and hope she enjoys the last photo. It was taken during the same visit but not when we were together. I figured she wouldn't mind as it was a current photo of me! lol

I do love my birdies and owls... too bad this roadside place was closed when we stopped, I know I would have purchased one of these babies for my yard. they were beautiful and unique.

I just love my HOUSE!! Here it is in all it's winter glory, just sitting there inviting you inside. I never thought a winter photo could look this good. I hope to use this in my Project 12 January session, not quite sure yet though.

I love the look of flags hanging outside homes they make me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. I grew up in the country and was a country themed decorater till moving here. Kerry is Not into country, says it looks "old" lol and he's old enough!

That being said, I do grab bits of country "feel" where I can. Hence this cute snowman with the yes you guessed it "Birdies" lol (note to self - you need a new pole!)

Saw this little Woodpecker in my tree enjoying the bird seed. I wasn't able to get a better photo but I think it was a Red Bellied Woodpecker based on the markings.

In other news Sparkie seems to be "over" her nesting stage for now. Thursday was the true test, I removed the 5 eggs and kept her in the cage downstairs most of the day. Well I think she was just tired of sitting on them all the time, because she is certainly over it! I hope it was just a one time deal!

Kerry has been excited with his new Blu Ray DVD player we got for Christmas. Last night we watched " A Leauge of Extronadinary Gentlemen" with Sean Connery... sighhhhhhhhhhh :-)

Wonder what the next newest and greatest technology will be, but for now we are content with this.

I have been watching some of the CHA reviews and definately am in Like with the Bella Blvd. lines Robot Love and Campout both are great for those boys in your life. Jocelyn I think you should check them out!

Currently reading a Scrapbooking Mystery by Laura Childs called Tragic Magic... good series if you have not read them worth checking out.

Until next time!

Winter is here to stay

2010-01-07T16:43:00.002-06:00

Looks like winter will be hanging around my house for awhile this year. We got probably 9 inches of this fluffy white stuff between last night and today. I love wht effect it is giving our backyard pond. We purchased a heater to try and keep the water from freezing solid for our critters. It works great. Kerry keeps and eye on the temperature and makes sure the waterfall is not freezing too. If you look off to the top right of this photo, there is a bee balm plant leftover from summer glory full of snow!

For those who know me you know I am a nature person. For those who might be visiting my blog for the first time I love photographing the nature and the little critters who visit my backyard stress free zone. This little guy was cute, I purchased a small bag of shelled peanuts and put them by the back sliding door. He spent time burying most of them in the snow and the others like this one sat and nibbled it..

Here are a couple sneak layouts from my gift album to my sister Carrie.. I am doing an 8 x 8 of our girls day in Maine last summer with my daughter Jennifer too (another album forthcoming for her! ) I selected a few favorite photos and the ones with good stories to remember.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Sister Carrie

I'm using mostly the Scenic Route Seasons ~ Summer line some inking and natural color cardstock. Having fun working on this especially on cold winter days!

Until next time!

On a roll

2010-01-04T12:32:00.003-06:00

I started an album for my sister Carrie yesterday and it's moving along nicely. I am doing a "Girls Day" from our Maine outing last summer when I visited. I know she will appreciate it and I am having so much fun scrapping and making progress. I promise to get photos uploaded soon, just not today. Time is slipping away and I need to work tonight... sigh having my first full weekend off since before Thanksgiving was great! Lots of relaxation, scrapping, reading and watching movies.. Last nite was "Edward Sissorhands" gotta love me some Depp!!

Finished my book and moving on to James Patterson's "Alex Cross's Trial" I am a huge James fan and can't wait to start this one.

The last evening of 2009 had this "Blue Moon" ~ meaning the second Full moon within a month.

12/31/09

And since I had to work 1/1/10 it was still out.. another beautiful shot.

I am more in like with the early morning shot...

Until next time!

New Stamps = Cardmaking!!!

2010-01-03T15:03:00.004-06:00

Back again.......

Getting a little ahead here ~ Valentine's day card. Yikes you can tell I work retail, the holidays just rush on by. Hope to have a few fun projects in the works for the niece and nephews with some little mailboxes I got from Target last year..

But todays card was an experiment with my new Stampendous cling rubber stamps ~ both the sentiment and the owls they are exclusive to Archiver's and I just had to have them!! The cardstock is from stash, I have not used chalk in ages.. but felt it would be a good addition to these little owls...

Off to read for a bit and dream up another project to work on.. Today is a lazy PJ day here
Currently reading ~ Finger Lickin Fifteen by Janet Evanovich.... this is a lol series starring Stephanie Plum.
So whats on your reading list right now?
Owl be seeing you!

New Challenges, New Year

2010-01-03T12:11:00.004-06:00

I found a new challenge posted on facebook this am from studiocalico.blogspot.com
and was all over this one.. They are doing Sunday sketches!! :-)
I got this card in the mail yesterday from my sister Cindy and what perfect timing this was. One challenge completed, one layout down for 2010!

Stash used : Bazzill cardstock
Quickutz font alpha "Katie ~ Grand version"
Papers ~ Reminisce ~ Polar Frost ~ stripes
Reminisce ~ Frosted Flakes ~ snowflakes
buttons ~ ribbon ?
Until next time!

photos finally!

2010-01-02T13:03:00.002-06:00

Yes! I got photos uploaded ~ Thanks to Jennifer for suggesting Picassa....
I'm baaaaaaaaaack!
So I have my 5 Golden (White) Eggs!!! lol Sparky is very possessive of them poor thing keeps sitting on them keeping them warm.. Ihave to research how long she will continue sitting before giving up.. (They are not fertile and was told to leave her be for now).

I did manage to get another Maine layout done while I was off computer for a bit.. I love the color combination on this one.

A couple winter type cards using my "SnowFriends" Cricut Cartridge... :-)

Have a couple more winter type photos, will get scrapping and get them posted soon!

Thanks for stopping by! I love the fact that people find my blog worthy of reading.. Thank you all so much for doing so and leaving such lovely comments! I appreciate all of you~

Until next time!

Happy 2010

2010-01-02T10:05:00.002-06:00

New Year, New Ideas, New Stories......
What will your new year bring you... Lots of Love and Happiness and Scrapping!!! :-)

I've been busy reading... Finished "Lovely Bones" and almost done with "The Time Traveler's Wife" both excellet reading choices if you have not read them. Thanks to my friend Kara who got them both for me :-) I love when you find someone wo shares a love of reading and has similar tastes, makes it easy to purchase gifts.

New changes on blog background... would really like to experiment more here but have so many more fun things to do.
Weather has turned COLD.... hmmmm well it is winter right? Do have some photos to share, will try and get them hooked up today, Kerry is busy with his mom not feeling well and took her to emergency room last night they kept her overnite and ran some tests. Still waiting on results, in meantime I am sure I can figure out getting my puter up and running again to upload photos..and get my creative juices flowing again.
Until next time!

Lisa, you were right!

2009-12-25T12:47:00.002-06:00

So a couple posts back I mentioned having Christmas gifts and wrapping them.. Lisa was so right I got a Cricut Expression from Kerry, he was so funny bound and determined thats what he was getting me for my big gift. Well I was able to find it on the CustomCrops web site for a good price and got another Jukebox, 12 x 12 cutting mats and 2 storage boxes for my Solutions cartridges so it was a very "Cricut" Christmas in my world. I also got the "From my Kitchen" cartridge. :-)

So glad I have rediscovered my Cricut and love of it!! I am so excited and can not wait to create some more.. Resting and relaxing today with Kerry. He got a BlueRay dvd player and we have "Angels and Demons" and "Night in the Smithsonian" to watch :-)

And still working on getting photos uploaded et al....
Love to all and Merry Christmas I can not wait to hear how your Christmas was....Who got scrappin stuff??

Until next time!

Color me Happy!

2009-12-24T20:22:00.002-06:00

Christmas Eve with the inlaws was a blast this year!!! I love them they are so cool, for instance I got scrappy goodness from them in the form of a Cricut Jukebox!!!! I'm so lucky, for my birthday earlier this month I scored the Wild Card cartridge from them too!!
Can't wait to play with it.. Off to snuggle with Kerry and find something good on tv.
Love to all friends, and may you have the very best Christmas time with your families.
Until next time!

Inspiration~

2009-12-23T21:26:00.002-06:00

So I've been here and not here and here again. Frustration that I need to reinstall my photo software.. have a few good shots to share.. Maybe tomorrow I can work on it. Until then know I am fine and reading ~ ok devouring every single word and idea on the blogs... keep them coming.. lol it's my sanity check...
So here is a Irish Blessing I found on the FB Tourism Ireland site..

"May the very best of this year be the very worst of next year"

I love it and need to scrap it.. Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah (over) but most of all Peace and Happiness to you all..
Until next time!

So far behind...

2009-12-17T12:50:00.002-06:00

With Christmas looming right around the corner... I am never this late and it's bothering me more than ever... UGH
So the good news is my dear husband Kerry (who really hates decorating since owing a mens clothing store for years and doing the windows and stores.. ) put up my TREE!!!! I have the best hubby ever.... and love him for this.. I know how much he hates doing it but there is no doubt (never was!) how much he loves me!!

Trying to round up the last few items to mail out to family back east.. Good thing they are gift cards and will be easy to finish up.
I so miss holiday baking, have not had time for it yet. I need to get my butt in gear and "Git er DONE!!!! LOL

Oh and radio in car is broken(well antenna) and I have been listening to the same cds for over a month now... time to switch them out with my Holiday cd's - so where did I put them last year?? anyone seen them???

Christmas for Kerry and I have few surprizes, we both bought what we wanted and wrapped it up... I know what my big present is - not telling you what it is but you will be as excited as I am when you find out.. I promise and it's scrap related.... So anyone want to guess... ???

Oh and I need to reinstall camera software... so I can upload photos..
Until next time!

Virus gone....

2009-12-07T11:53:00.002-06:00

Virus is gone, but not back to normal yet.. :-(
I wanted to upload some photos of birthday gifts and cards/layout I made however seems I need to re-install my photo stuff first.. UGH...

So until then I'll just have to be patient.. as I am a technophobe.. lol just ask my daughter!
She was the one who installed it all in the beginning, so I guess I will have to read and figure it out.. could be a few days time. Work is extremely busy right now and still have Christmas shopping to do... Wish the niece and nephew would give up their lists.. NOWWWW lol
gotta have time to get the gift wrap it and mail it to arrive on time..

We got a small heater for our pond, looking forward to having critters visit for water this winter.
Speaking of we got our first dusting early this morning. It's colder and now finally feeling like winter is on its way.
Hope all is well with my blogging / Scrapping friends, look forward to seeing your blogs soon.

Until next time!

ARRRGH

2009-11-16T10:43:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was a FML day! My computer caught a virus and I need to be MIA for a bit... UGH!!!!
Watched a full day of football, finished up 2 layouts for Sarah's book, finished up my Christmas mini present for Mother in law this morning... Looks like I will be very productive till the Dr. can cure my virus... lol
So I will check in when I can, I have Kerry's computer right now but its attached to the business so I don't want to work on it more than necessary. Until then I will be pining away for your craftyness and wittiness... Love yas!
Until next time!

Burst of Color

2009-11-15T12:29:00.003-06:00

After years of longing for the Fall Foliage in New England, this year I have my very own Burst of Color!! This tree sits out front of our house on the parkway and since it was planted it stayed green all year. This year was the very first time it changed its colors!! I was so excited to see nature working right in my yard. I took this photo on the 2nd of Nov. and even today it still has most of its beautiful leaves attached.. I will enjoy my "tree" as long as possible this year.

In other news : I scrapped another photo of my niece Sarah. I love this photo it brings out her natural beauty! This again is using up stash ~ I did purchase one of the Martha punch sets this weekend, I wanted the loops but alas nowhere to be found at my local Mikes.. so I settled for the "rings" hope to use it on Christmas cards.

I did get some Thanksgiving cards whipped up this weekend and they are all addressed waiting to mail out on Monday ~ Again using stash :-)

So today I'm working on mini book for mil for Christmas, and couple mini's for daughter and sister. I have sewing to do and finished up "206 Bones" by Kathy Reichs great book. Kerry meanwhile is watching the Vikings on TV he's a "Farve fan" and sorting his toolbox. Don't ask!! lol What are you up to this weekend?

Stash used: DCWV Fall paper stack 2008

American Crafts ribbon

Random buttons

Quickutz Cookie Cutter Heart with Bazzill Bling paper

Clear stamp by Autumn Leaves ~ Romance of Spring collection

Until next time!

Keeping the "Simple" Strategy

2009-11-07T10:55:00.004-06:00

My Goddaughter/Niece turned the big One Three this past Summer!! Sarah was so excited about her birthday coming she constantly wrote letters to me telling me how excited she was to become a teenager. I love getting Sarah mail and her excitement made me decide I HAD to be there! Kerry and I planned our summer vacation trip to coinside with her party. I had not been home to see family in "3" years so this was pretty exciting for me too. When asking Sarah what she would like for her birthday I got the typical "I don't know, I haven't thought about it"! response.. So I was like "how would you like Aunt Lorry to come visit"? Whooo hoooo big score, the best present ever... lol well besides the scrapbook that I have been making for her.

Simply said here is the birthday Girl at "13"

Supplies used:
LRS Jan 08 Kit ~ featuring Heidi Grace ~ Paradise Point
Quickutz ~ Zelda font
Rubons ~ birthday girl ~ Rhonna Farrer Greetings
~ blow out the candles ~ Marcella by K ~ Modern Birthday
Epoxy Wish ~ K & Company ~ Classic K McKenna Endearments
Glitter Stars ~ Making Memories

All were used up Stash!!! Go Me!!
Until next time!

Simple is the best way

2009-11-02T12:55:00.005-06:00

So like my title says Simple is the best way to scrap.. you get more completed faster... lol Yes I've just discovered it... :-) So here is my son all grown up... I just love this picture and who he is becoming.. after some rough years, he is discovering himself. I am so proud of the changes hes making and wanted to scrap it. Another Stash use up LRS kit again Jan 08 kit and featuring Heidi Grace Paradise Point papers... and a touch of Ofray ribbon...

You might remember this little critter with the peanut butter bread... Today's feast was a slice of apple. I found it quite cute to watch, he ate all the inside of the apple wedge, leaving the skin.. lol must be a youngn

Until next time!

Octobers gone!

2009-11-01T09:26:00.004-06:00

Just one last Halloween photo then on to Summer Vacation.. This has been sitting on my counter all month and lit up every night! I got this bucket from Target in the $dollar spot, and put 2 tealight candles inside and lit them up. Was a cute and inexpensive decoration.

Rutland Vermont `09 Not the most flattering photo of meself....lol but figured it was worth a laugh or two in years to come. Kerry loves this restaurant "Sewards" they grew up going here and we must have eaten here at least 10 times in our 2 week vacation... according to him they make the best Black Raspberry ice cream and know how to make real hot dogs (with the bun grilled) neither of which we can get in Chicago!!

Downtown Rutland~

City is the 2nd largest in Vermont... you would not believe it but there is a Walmart right downtown! Quite a different version of City life than Boston or Chicago for sure. But typical New England city.. the State Fair is held here too, so there are fairgrounds not too far from these photos.

I used up stash from LRS kit Pink Paislee ~ Vintage Moon Collection ~no cricut this time :-( The letter stickers were part of the kit also Pink Paislee. The little pearl stones from Michael's Recollection line ~ Autumn and the Stamped owl is Hero Arts, stamped "You're a Hoot!" is Stampendous. I felt this paper gave an older feel to the city.. and the color matched the bricks.

Todays beautiful outside, need to get leaves raked up but since Kerry is taking a nap, I figured I have time to read and scrap!! Currently reading "Casting Off" by Nicole R. Dickson new author for me and I love her style. Story takes place in Ireland and is about the Fisherman's handmade sweaters telling a story...How each is unique with feelings stiched into rows, memories into patterns. Of course with my lust for Irish tales, and the country itself it's a perfect fit. So if you read What are you reading now?

Until next time!

Cute Candy idea

2009-10-31T10:15:00.003-05:00

I think this photo says it all.... lol Hope everyone is having a great day, and you have lots of fun with the trick or treaters! This is one of 3 cute little decorations I found this year.. and have them all hanging in our entranceway to the office.

Whooo's got Candy?? I do I do.. this is something quick I made up this week for some friends at work. Very simple and fun.. I took a regular size Hershey Chocolate Bar and cut Halloween papers up with my trimmer to 5 1/2 x 5 1/2 inches square. Then with a little adhesive (duck brand tape runner) I wrapped it around the candy bar. A small amount of ribbon tied around the center with a hand stamped tag attached. Quick, easy and FUN! Halloween papers were from last years DCWV paper stack - Fall.... see more stash being used up!

On to summer 09 to Vermont here is a layout I created this week.. I am loving my Cricut... this one is using the "Stretch your Imagination" for the birdhouses. Freehand birdie and papers are from the DCWV "Doodln Around Stack" I chose computer journaling for this one, as I was trying to stay within space I left open.

Left side layout

Right side

Until next time!

Random nothings..

2009-10-28T16:46:00.003-05:00

Where has the time gone? Yes it's the middle of the week and last week of October and I've gotten all my Halloween cards done and mailed whew... sorry I did not photo any, was to anxious to get them out! I've got a layout or 2 on my table, of vacation from Vermont this summer.. Think I found the perfect paper, now need to journal, embellish and then I can post.. and file away!! I also think I just might be able to use my Cricut Stretch Your Imagination cartridge on this one too.. Score, using up stash and using the Cricut... what a winning combination!!

I miss my scrapping time, I've been too busy at work with the upcoming holidays and trying to hire a couple new team members to boot. I am off this weekend and really hope for some dry NOT rainy weather.. we need to get the leaves to the curb for pickup and maybe take a photo or two of the backyard leave fest...hahaha

So on the way home from work the other day I had to sit and wait for the Geese to cross, glad I grabbed my camera and took this shot... which proves I have to get busy and take normal photos, and not stalk the birds... lol

Well this little critter was happy today! I get them in my bird feeders all the time digging for the sunflower seeds and knocking all the other seeds to the ground.. get frustrated sometimes with it, but the birds deal and life is good!

Good thing I had water in the bird baths too, he needed a drink after this.. lol

So sad that the "new season shows" are into repeats already on a couple of them :-(

Kerry and I ran to Blockbuster to pick up a couple movies with a $2.99 coupon they sent me, so we will watch something tonight..
Until next time!

2009-10-22T13:03:00.008-05:00

Warning ~ Photo heavy!!

So yesterday was a "fun mail" day, my friend Jocelyn sent this cute little Halloween Card!! I just love getting fun mail and sending it...Thank you Jocelyn for inspiring me to work on my cards today on my day off! It's raining here again, and I love the fall snuggle weather but I really want to be OUTSIDE in it.. lol

Card from Jocelyn!! Love it and you Girl!

Remember a few posts back I had some sneaks, well I finished up this mini gift album and here are a few pages. I like how it came out.. I used a couple pressed boards I found a Michaels, and painted them terracotta and made them look like a "flower pot". The papers were October Afternoon from a LRS kit. I found the perfect embellishmet for the front from Michaels part of their Recollections Autumn Splendor line.. Love that dragonfly!

This photo says it all!

I love stamping in my books too! I have many stamps that work well for lots of things and love the look it gives them!

The flowers are from Prima.. love Prima flowers almost as much as Real Flowers... lol

So while I was taking a peek at Laura's blog today she had a session on a mini book, and you all know my love of mini's so I figured I would photo some of them! These all sit on a shelf in my craft space to review and enjoy!! Hope you like them, a couple are still being worked on others are completed.

Owl still needs the perfect photos, I think I will use it for my growing collection of things "Owley" lol is that a word??

I love this one with actual photos covering the front!

There is one I did on my Faith... I do have a belief in God and all his glory, but do not attend a church faithfully. This mini was a documentation of growing up Catholic and my foundation of religion as I grew and acceptance of who I am and how God fits into my life. There is alot of journaling on the last couple pages.. This book is actually made of recycled cardboard and inked up around edges and through out.. I used the Basic Grey "Urban Couture" line for this and love how well it worked with those old black/white photos.. Growing up I do not have alot of photos of myself or family, but through my hobby I am making sure my children have them! Sadly I lost touch with the other children in these photos as we moved out of W. Boylston, I remember the name of the Church, but have no clue who the Priest or Nuns were. Nothing was written on back of photos :-(

My Faith ~

Sorry photo turned out blurry when enlarged.. It looks fine irl...

Inside back cover ~ the previous page I left out as it was personal journey through religon for me!

Hope you all have a wonderful day, and since this took so long to post, I'm off to find lunch...lol

Until next time!

Tour de Naperville ~ back home

2009-10-18T21:26:00.005-05:00

Home Sweet Home.....

I love the bright colors of the fall, and this little flag greets all who walk up our path.

Remember all my bird stalking (watching) stories.. lol well this Birch tree is where most of it takes place. It sits right out front and I am blessed to have a corner of our living room with two large picture windows to view out of. I just love the contrast of the bright yellow and clear blue sky!

Around back I have this planter with 3 smaller mums still going strong. I love how it perks up our bulkhead. Soon these too will be gone for the season and I will be awaiting the end of winter for spring to fill this up again to bloom.

I have taken alot of photos of birds in this birdbath, it never ceases to amaze me how much they love this one! I do have a couple others in the yard, but they all gather around this one. Today it was over run with Robins.. lol they kept coming and really gettin down... LOL
I love my Sparky, he spends alot of time out of his cage with me and it's fun to watch him looking out at the birds. He is usually pretty good and not startled by much unless it's a Hawk... Yes a Hawk, we live close to the Prairie Forest Reserve and they are always there.. I am ok with them coming to visit as long as they do "take out" not "dine in". Sounds gross I know but it is a natural

fact of nature.

Here is a close up of the Red Tailed Hawk that swooped in.

Last but not least, this makes me Smile every time I sit to eat!! I love Halloween.

Until next time!

Tour de Naperville

2009-10-18T20:52:00.005-05:00

So a friend did something like this on facebook the other day and it was pretty cool. She did a tour of her town and posted some photos. I tried to get more posted here but blogger is acting out and not uploading them so I'll start with these and add when I can.

Downtown Naperville is a fun place to go, lots of small shops, and a great River walk along the Dupage River. This is one of the fountains in front of a covered bridge that crosses the river. There are plenty of places to sit and relax and just enjoy!

Today when I was there I watched a couple who were getting photographed here, fun times! I wondered if they were engagement shots or just fun shots? My guess was engagement they were having so much fun.

Who could resist this fun place? Alot of the side streets downtown are filled with unique shops like this one.. Yummie Cupcakes

This is a newer place and my eye zoomed in on the Pumpkin Yogurt!! I love the fall and all the treats that go along with it. Have to say Pumpkin is my favorite fall treat!!

So moving along on our tour... don't you all just love this place? The distribution center is located here in Naperville and mind you it's HUGE..... lol I pass this everyday on my way to work..

Ok, so this is not unique to Naperville but it is fun. The weather was great so I whipped out my

gift card and stopped in for a Treat... Can you guess what I got?

Yup, if you were paying attention earlier you would have guessed a Pumpkin Muffin and Hot Chocolate yum! I sat outside and enjoyed the weather wondering to my self why everyone was staying inside to eat.... oh well their loss.

As we continue our tour, I've headed back towards my home on the Southwest side of the city. This is one of 4 High Schools we have, my son graduated here in 2007 with a class of over 1,000!!

This is one of 3 Libraries we have too! This is the newest one and Naperville has been ranked #1 for a number of years running according to the library index. It is awesome and I spend lots of time putting books on hold and going to pick them up!!

Until next time!

I'm still here... lol

2009-10-16T18:50:00.002-05:00

Wow can you believe my last post was on 10/8? Time flies... I have been here reading all your postings but didn't have anything I felt was blog worthy to post.. lol still don't.
Fall is creeping up fast, and will be gone before we know it. In retail the holidays all blurrrrrrrr together... we are already pushing past Halloween, and thinking Christmas.. UGH!!!!
I really want to enjoy my holidays, so I am taking time to breathe :-)

I heard from my daughter the other day.. we had been playing cell phone tag.. lol I told her she could catch me on my regular schedule.. but hmmm never thought she didn't know what it was..
I have to put a call into my Dad this weekend the company he was working for closed it's doors today.. hes pretty bummed out.. @ 77 and still was working 3 days a week.. he will go stir crazy if he can't find something to occupy his time.. UGH.... parents are not supposed to go through this stuff.

Yesterday was my day off and I was working on a gift scrapbook for a baby shower, it's kind of cute looking, I was using the Nana's Kids papers from DCWV for a boy and my
Quickutz monkey die, going to pull out my Cricut Animal Kingdom cartridge and try making a couple more diecuts with it.. I am loving my Cricut.. and try to use it for every project I work on.. got to try and get my $monies worth from it.. lol And guess what the Nana's kids paper was in my Stash... lol gotta love using up stash.

I can post some photos later of it or tomorrow.. I need to work on some more scrapbooking this weekend and get some sewing done for Christmas projects, supposed to be cold and possibly rain/sun/clouds...
Until next time!

2009-10-08T15:44:00.002-05:00

I found this "Over the Top" award on callista's blog and loved it, like her not going to follow the rules, but wanted to play along so here are my answers and hope you want to play too!

Here are the rules for the Over The Top Award:USE ONLY ONE WORD! It’s not as easy as you might think. Copy and change the answers to suit yourself and pass it on. It’s really hard to use only one-word answers so try your best. Tag 6 other bloggers and let them know that you think they are 'Over the Top'

1. Where is your cell phone? Counter
2.Your hair? brown
3. Your mother? passed
4. Your father? Hero
5. Your favorite food? Chineese
6. Your dream last night? none
7. Your favorite drink? cold
8. Your dream/goal? Ireland
9. What room are you in? craft
10. Your hobby? crafting
11. Your fear? lonliness
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? traveling
13. Where were you last night? home
14. Something that you aren’t? thin
15. Muffins? Blueberry
16. Wish list item? housekeeper
17. Where did you grow up? Massachusetts
18. Last thing you did? laundry
19. What are you wearing? slippers
20. Your TV? big
21. Your pets? Cockatiel
22. Friends? Best!
23. Your life? Fabulous!
24. Your mood? annoyed
25. Missing someone? Duchess
26. Vehicle? Jaguar
27. Something you’re not wearing? socks
28. Your favorite store? Archiver's
29. Your favorite color? Orange
30. When was the last time you laughed? today
31. Last time you cried? week
32. Your best friend? Rosa
33. One place that I go to over and over? Library
34. One person who emails me regularly? Susan
35. Favorite place to eat? home

I'm not going to follow the rules and tag anyone, if you want to play along, feel free to!

Until next time!

2009-10-08T11:19:00.003-05:00

What a fun award, thanks to my friend Jocelyn I get to share some things with you so Thank you sweet friend here is some Honesty straight from me!

Here is how it works....*Say thank you and give a link to the presenter of the award*Share “10 Honest Things” about myself

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

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

1. I was SHY when growing up! I tell people this now and they never believe me because I am so OUTGOING now.. lol

2. I collect Boyds Rabbits and Bears: started with the Rabbits and when they got scarce I moved on to the Bears, I have friends who give them to me and they are all displayed on a shelf in my craft room.

3. I love to Bake more than Cooking, especially in the fall/winter. I give alot of homemade goodies as gifts.

4. I wanted a tattoo years back, the sun, moon, and stars. Had it all picked out and where I would get it, BUT never wanted to pay the $$ to have it done alas no tattoos for me. And more so still don't do it because still won't spend the $$ but Kerry hates them on women.. lol

5. I love to travel, honestly thought at this stage of my life I would be doing more of it than I do! But until the economy picks up its short road trips that don't cost alot. Does this bother me yeah but I need a roof over my head and food to eat more than exploring right now.. lol Someday will come I have faith in that.

6. I love M & M's and separate them by color to eat them!

7. I always have funky socks on at work it's the little things that make me smile.

8. I hate liars, rude people, and know it alls....

9. I will answer pretty much any question asked of me, but always state this " Be careful what you ask me, you might not like the answer". I am direct and to the point and will tell you like it is. I will not sugar coat things to make you feel better. I will tell you things you really don't want to hear but you need to and that no one else will.. LOL I do it nicely but it will be the Truth.

10. I love my life and family, dislike working retail but the job does pay the insurance and allows me to have a better life and time with family, than if not working.

So now I'm supposed to bestow this Honesty to 9.... lol I've got a few. These ladies, have wonderful blogs great inspiration to me both in family and creativity.

Raining here again, hoping to finish up embellishing the Mini for Sisterinlaw's gift giving project. And move onto more vacation photos. I was able to pick up some WRMK page protectors at Archiver's to work on some Hybrid scrapping, I love the look of the pages done this way and the creativity of multiple photos. Best news is they are on $ale right now so time to stock up on a few more.. I have decided I love 3 ring scrapbooks much better, and look forward to working with these more. What about you.???. Is it Post Bound or 3 Ring? Side loading or Top loading?? I prefer top loading.

Until next time!

Monday Monday

2009-10-05T11:29:00.003-05:00

Ahhhhh Monday again, amazing how fast it rolls around.. I just had a great 3 day weekend reading and relaxing. I finished up my Road trip to Iowa, started a Christmas gift for my Sister in Law, don't want to post just incase someone checks out my blog. It was something she wanted me to make for a friend of hers, I struggled a little in the beginning thinking of how to pull it off, but as I got into it was pleased with the results.. Maybe I can do a couple sneak peeks??

Fall is coming fast to Naperville, Kerry has been so busy at his sisters fixing window/wall/floor drama ~ don't ask... a simple project turned into a Nightmare... lol so he has been straight out for last 2 + weeks, our yard has been neglected.. :-( I should have used my time working outside, but it was rainin, cloudy and overcast Fri. & Sa.t so I had a General Hospital tivo marathon!! whooo hooo I am all caught up.. Yesterday was gorgeous, I swear I should have gone photo hopping around town, but Christmas will be here before I know it and I wanted to get this project out of the way.. made good progress, will put fininshing touches on this week.

Hope everyone has a great week !

Until next time!

Road Trip ~

2009-10-02T16:09:00.004-05:00

Remember back in September Kerry and I took a road trip to Iowa, well today I was busy scrapping that trip here are the first two pages. I am using the American Crafts ~ Travel papers and Cardstock. And best of all I used my "Going Places" Cricut for the designs and "George" for the alpha letters, I am really liking using my stash and Cricut.

Beginning of Road Trip album~ First stop Fulton, Illinois

It is a Huge Dutch Commnity, I wish I had some wooden shoes on my Cricut... lol would be perfect fit here.

I really wanted to go to Archiver's last nite on my way home from work... lol I even pulled into the parking lot and got a spot right infront of the door!

But I must say my willpower won out last nite, I never even made it to the front door, What you say? you went to the most fantastic Scrap store around and you didn't go in... LOL Yup, I managed to turn around and get back into my car and head home to use my very own STASH!!!!

But my dear blogger friends, there is always tomorrow! lol We shall see~ I have a coupon burning a hole in my wallet!! lol not that I really need something but $aving money is always nice.

I have a 3 day weekend this week and today has been fun, scrapping, reading, and playing with Sparky. I ordered Chineese for lunch and Kerry and I enjoyed that. I'm going to finish up another layout from said road trip ~ loved adding these diecuts... Fun Fun Fun....

Now I am off to watch a bit of Tivo~~ I love Tivo, I have been a fan of General Hospital for over 30 years and got behind while on vacation, so it has been a soap marathon to catch up.. :-)
Until next time!

Why o Why???

2009-09-26T12:10:00.003-05:00

***Was it when I went looking for another job 5 years ago I chose Retail??? What was I thinking??? Obviously I wasn't thinking that was my problem.. lol, Sighhhhhhh I long for the days working Mon-Fri and weekends OFF!!!! I realize I have Thursday's off but, when your week goes on forevah and evah, you just long for the "WEEKEND" kwim?? Alas, I have to work tonight and tomorrow and let's not forget my usual Monday night... lol sure you say you can sleep in, problem is I am a morning person, and night Owl~~~~(wonder if that's why i'm loving owls??)

***But at least today was productive ~ another vacation photo done from Maine trip with the girls... I used my Life is a Beach cart again, and wondered when I was purchasing the Winter Woodland cartridge last week from Michaels if I needed the "Cooking" one.... hmmmm I figured not, YEAH right... I NEEDED it for this layout, so hence the Lobstah, is a Crab.... lol

Until next time!

TGIF!!!

2009-09-25T17:55:00.002-05:00

UGH, this was the longest week ever and still not over for me. I have to work this weekend on the closing shift, at least it's supposed to rain, so I will read, and scrap... lol might be beneficial..

**Do you have a pet peeve?? I do it's people talking on cell phones when checking out... its my biggest one, close second is RUDE people... UGH!!! makes me wanna slap them silly... and ask are you always this rude or only when your here?!?!?!?!?!? and what really pizzed me off was it was a 23 yr old executive... double UGH!!!!

**So enough of the rant an rave... lol I feel better don't you, just knowing that??? lol

**I did make another layout yesterday from Maine Vacation photos and used my Cricut "Life is a Beach" cart... I am loving my Cricut... no fancy pattern paper, just plain ole American Craft cardstock. Got plans to try another one tonight :-)

Until next time!

Crafty Thursday project

2009-09-24T15:34:00.004-05:00

Well its October Afternoon, in September>>> I finished up my layout and after I stuck all the flowers in place I had one thought "Flower Sneeze"!!!

I do kinda like how it came out just wished I used smaller flowers for some of them, but like the little title on the arrow says, it made me Smile!

I used up stash from my LRS Oct. 07 kit! another plus, found this cute owl stamp on vacation for my collection. The flowers are random that I have had forever, can not remember who manufacuter was.

Owl be seeing you next time!

Reading frenzy

2009-09-24T12:37:00.002-05:00

Crafty Thursday is here again.. what a long week so far. I've been wanting to work on vacation photos for a few days now but "work" has gotten in the way!! LOL
I did however finish up my book "Knock Out" by Catherine Coulter... great as usual and started and finished one by Fern Michaels called "Razor Sharp" then moved on to "Mr. and Miss Anonymous" also by Fern. So as you can see I have been reading not scrapping in my spare time...and watching my birds, with the coming of fall I have put out some suet and the little woodpecker has found it already. Yesterday both the woodpecker and a Blue Jay came to visit and this morning while sitting in my chair I caught a glimpse of my Hummer!! He is filling himself up for his long journey for the winter months.

I did start a photo from my trip ~ currently looks like I will be using the October Afternoon selection but it's still on the table being worked out. Will ponder and hem and haw I am sure before I finish it up. See this photo is the one on my profile.. One of the very few "GOOD" ones I have of myself and it's kinda like a "Life Bird" to me ~ that is one of something you never saw before and have been wanting to see.. this self photo is "one" of those items very rare.. lol
I will post when it gets finished.
Just got off phone with my Dad and he sounds good. I love when he is feeling good and that he gets excited about his weekends away with his Old Car Club. That makes me SMILE!!!
So what made you Smile today?

Until next time!

Curb Appeal ~

2009-09-20T09:10:00.004-05:00

*Thanks to my sister Carrie, she has sparked my interest in this topic! LOL while I always try and make my yard and home look appealing this can always be improved right? I have to laugh at my sister using this term... you see I teased her about her house being 1/4 mile down a driveway in the woods!!! like who can see your beautiful home from the road???? Sheeeeeesh Sista, and she tells me I CAN!!! lol I gotta tell you that was a great "girls day" I had not had that much fun in ages....

*So on to MY curb appeal.... I purchased a couple mums to brighten up the front yard, hung out my Fall flags, and put away the bright spring/summer ones. I love the fall it is my favorite season. Last year I planted "mums" near my mailbox, and was blessed they reseeded and came back!!! Now thats Free Curb Appeal!!! gotta love it.

*I found this adorable plant hanger on clearance at Hobby Lobby about a month ago and never really got it hung up. Well yesterdays venture to Home Depot scored this wind chime. It sounds so pretty, I have a hearing disability and some sounds I can not hear great. This one has a nice tone that is perfect for my ears!!! I was Smiling like the Cheshire Cat sitting on our patio listening to it.

* And Kerry was working on curb appeal in a big way too! Thursday I went to lunch with my friend Nina and came home to this~ He pruned ok correct term is BUTCHERED my Forsythia bushes, they were a great privacy fence so to speak... lol well Not so much now!!

*In his defense they really needed to have this done, we have been wanting to do it for a number of years and never got to it, it was just the SHOCK of seeing it completed when I came home. I will trust that they will come back in the spring and BLOOM Beautifully.... This is what I came home to, and Yesterday we added the tiki torches and lit them up!! soooo pretty.

This photo is a portion of the branches he cut off those bushes!! We are fortunate to have the city come a couple times a year and collect these as long as they are on the "curb" by a certian date.. well that date is this week... So Kerry really was on top of this one! I love this man, he always makes me smile :-)

Today I hope to get some much needed card making done and hope to get a gift wrapped and ready to mail tomorrow, maybe a layout or two??? Hope so as I want to review my vacation memories again and again and again..

Until next time!

Crafty Thursday project

2009-09-17T13:25:00.002-05:00

I've done it, I actually scrapped for the first time since before vacation!!! Toot for me... Yippiee.
Here is a photo I posted earlier from Cape Neddick, Maine. Nubble Light is a pretty famously photographed light house, I have probably taken a few photos over the years going there but this one was the most "Beautiful" one I captured.
I used a LRS kit from Dec. '07 of Scenic Route papers, rubon and Jenni Bowlin stickers. I was able to use my Cricut!! I purchased the "Life is a Beach" cartridge just before vacation hoping to use it with photos taken.. Well Here it is.. I like how it came out.

I can't wait to try it out with the photos of my chairs all lined up... stay tuned for more craftiness... Off to lunch with Nina!
Until next time!

BFF gotta love them

2009-09-17T11:42:00.002-05:00

You have one I know you do.. a BFF that is there for you no matter what! Well this is mine, lol I am the only one she lets get away with calling her "Rosa" tee hee. She is a great mom, daughter, sister, and true blue friend. I am so happy she and her fiancee are engaged and finally thinking about setting a date!! I can't wait to be able to go to their wedding. I will be as beautiful as she is.
No other reason for posting other than I was thinking about her and spending time with them on our vacation. I know she checks my blog from time to time, so when she does I wanted to shout out I LOVE YOU GIRLFRIEND!! :-)

Until next time!