SuperMom Scrappin

Night Owl Scraps--Quickpages rock!

2010-11-23T03:09:00.003-05:00

I have had the pleasure of playing with these GORGEOUS quickpages from Night Owl Scraps (formerly MajorTigger). I just couldn't wait to share! (click on photos to see them larger).

There are more pages to play with and her Steampunk kit is coming soon! There are a couple free quickpages over there right now--just be sure to leave her some lovin'!

Photoshop fun

2010-11-07T14:51:00.003-05:00

So I have been seeing lots of cool digital art work and wanted to take a stab at it myself. I took this photo:

and added some brushes from Obsidian Dawn and some textures I had as well as some papers I had scanned in.....and this is what it became:

A gorgeous woodland pixie!

Playing with ink

2010-09-29T17:45:00.004-04:00

I have been a busy supermom lately! I have been playing with paint, glue, inks, and more! I have created my own alcohol inks as well as glimmer mists. I have created domino art and I am working on a very cool box. I have taken tags, tape, cheesecloth and alcohol ink and made gorgeous tags--but don't take my word for it....here is the evidence!

These dominoes have been painted or inked...some have both, some have paper glued to them....they are coming along nicely!

This is my fairy box using the same technique as the tags below. The stamp is from Smeared Ink from their Faes set.

I really love how this tag turned out. It looks so vintage and just wow!

Like little bits of stained glass....love these!

So pretty!

2010-09-26T21:20:00.005-04:00

It's here! Burst Into Spring is a wonderful new collaboration from Siamese Studio and Recherché by KH Designs and it's a must have for your collection.

Visit Kiki's blog!

Guest Designer in September!!!!

2010-08-29T08:20:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to let you all know I am going to be the guest designer for Smeared and Smudged for the month of September! There will be a challenge from me, and lots of fun artwork I have been working on to show to all of you! I got my guest designer button and everything! (Love the fire Goddess, how perfect!)

For now I have one little sneak peak:

I have lots of projects for you to see all September long! Enjoy!

Kiki's blog

2010-08-14T11:44:00.001-04:00

I wrote another blog over at Kiki's Blog all about back to school and some great websites you can share with your kids! I love the internet, it is great for learning! You can find anything and everything on the internet. So go check out some of the links to places I have used with my children. Enjoy!

Very cool Tutorial at Kiki's blog

2010-07-24T19:48:00.003-04:00

I created this hybrid digi layout and this is the second tutorial for making the fun and fabulous layered flower.

http://kiki-scraps.blogspot.com/2010/07/more-hybrid-inspirations-for-your-super.html

Super Saturday Stretch

2010-06-26T11:01:00.004-04:00

Go over to Kiki Halbert's blog and check out my post! I am doing Saturday challenges for her and am very excited! I created a new layout (need a photo of DH grilling though) using something coming soon!!!! Go see it!

Kiki Halbert Creative Team Call!!!!

2010-06-14T22:29:00.004-04:00

Come one come all and submit your info for this creative team call. Kiki is a wonderfully fun digi-designer. Check out the info below!

http://www.digishoptalk.com/boards/calls-15/kiki-halbert-designs-ct-call-ends-june-25th-243366/

Do you love my designs? I’m looking for some fun-loving, motivated scrappers to help create layouts for a new business venture!

Do 3 layouts per month
Post to 3 galleries
Be active in my CT forum

Send me an email with your bio and a link to your fave gallery to: kikihalbertcall@gmail.com

Call ends June 25, 2010.

It's A BOY!!!!!

2010-06-04T17:21:00.006-04:00

We are proud and excited to welcome Kirby to our home this weekend. He is a retired champion showdog, Shetland Sheepdog aka Sheltie, who needed a nice home and family to live out his days. They will be full of kids, love and a big back yard!

The kit is called Can We Keep him by Royanna Fritschmann of Divine Digital.

The Marvelous Mae West

2010-05-13T12:30:00.020-04:00

A quote book of some of my favorite Mae West quotes. I used various papers for backgrounds, distress inks, copper ink, Bombshell Stamps and photos of Mae West.

Front Cover:

I used the Bombshell butterfly wings stamped on transparencies for the corners of the frame on the cover.

Front Cover hidden photo:

Quote on the back of the tag covering the hidden photo.

First page:

I used Graphics45 vintage paper along with a Bombshell stamp covered in rhinestones (above). Below you can see the photo of Mae on the back of the vintage man.

This is the next page I created the background on chipboard using various distress inks and copper ink. The stamps are from Bombshell Stamps and went well with the quote!

Isn't she a hoot!?! Here is the next page using the Dark Fairy stamp found at Sweet Pea Stamps (created by Ching-chou kuik) and another bombshell. The feather is covering the M in made....

Next page:

And now my absolute FAV page of the entire book--I just love how it turned out...and yes it took me a while to make the fishnet stockings! :)

And the very last page....whew.

Spring Flowers

2010-04-26T20:52:00.003-04:00

No more snow, just chilly rain, but that is ok as I am working on layouts and fun stuff. I have a quote book in progress, my dd is making an accordian book of inventions she wanted to learn more about and I have 2 new digi layouts.

I share with you now Spring Flowers. Thanks to Char for the gorgeous photos!!! Thanks to Hoppity by Deanna Patterson of Shabby Scrap Designs for the wonderful papers and elements. I also used Template #21 by Stepinette. Very fun!

I have another digital layout I am printing out to add dimension to. I am really excited about my idea and how it is turning out, so be sure to check back!

And the Winner is:

2010-04-04T15:17:00.003-04:00

I had 10 people enter my giveaway and I assigned them random numbers as follows:

1. Itzjust4me
2. Carole N
3. Danielle
4. Madeleine
5. Alison
6. Carol-Ann
7. CrazyCreations
8. Betty
9. Kim Wilson
10 ArtDoll Jean

And using the random.org tool the winner is:

Number 9: Kim Wilson! Congratulations to Kim, I will email you so you can get me your information so I can send out this package! Thanks. I will have the next package ready next week. Have a Happy Easter all!

Altered Art-recycled

2010-04-03T10:09:00.000-04:00

Over on Smeared and Smudged we have been discussing various things that we alter. There are fairly "normal" things like books and boxes...there are interesting items like light switch plates and there are recycled items such as license plates or packaging. I wanted to share with you something I did recently with packaging.

Here is what the package looked like.

I bought a bunch of fun beads and upon opening one I thought "Hum, wouldn't this be a great frame for a project I am working on?". So I painted it with this awesome copper paint from Jaquard (they make pearl ex powders) and voila--this is what I got:

Now I just need to finish it up with a photo and maybe some texture. Still not bad for a free chipboard frame!

Come back tomorrow to see who the winner is!

Spring Cleaning Giveaway!!!!

2010-03-27T21:36:00.003-04:00

Here is the Spring packet! Look at all the papers, fibers, tag sticker and more! You want it? All you need to do is leave me a comment here for it. These papers are from all different places.

I will pick a winner next Saturday, April 3rd and announce the winner April 4th. The winner will be random from the names that leave comments. This is ONE package! I hope to have a wedding package for the next one to give away so keep looking for the next Freebie! Thanks for playing.

Too Much Stuff means FREEBIES for someone else

2010-03-24T22:48:00.004-04:00

Over the past 10 years I have collected and been giving lots and lots of scrapbooking supplies. I have come to the understanding that 1. I will never use all of these items....2. I don't like some of these items (they are just not very *me*), 3. I want to "freecycle" some of them to new homes. So over the next few days I will be putting together packages of items to give away just for coming to my blog and saying--WOW that is great stuff send it to me. I will then use a randomizer to choose a winner for each package.

Doesn't that sound great! I will put photos up when I get them together. This could be buttons, ribbons, papers, stamps, chipboard, pieces parts and more. I will try to arrange a package of JUST Christmas items as well as a bits and pieces set. So check back here this weekend and see what I have available. If you want it, leave a comment on my blog and a lucky winner will get the package. Free free freebies to a good loving home!

Angel Watching

2010-03-13T23:39:00.003-05:00

This layout was inspired by a photo shoot with my daughter. My dear friend Char took the photos of my dd. I took the other photo in this layout and used papers from Kiki's Retro Jungle by Kiki Halbert at Scrapbook-elements.com as well as some elements from her kit.

Smeared and Smudged Blog Hop

2010-03-04T08:00:00.011-05:00

I want to introduce you to some new creative friends! I found an amazing group of women over at Smeared and Smudged! The group has been growing so fast we wanted to do something special on our blog and then send you to see fantastic art of all shapes and sizes at their various blogs.

I have been working on a bunch of projects this week that I wanted to put up for the blog hop, but things got so crazy here I didn't finish them and I hate putting up 1/2 finished projects. I do want to share this digital layout I created using Kiki Halbert's Retro Jungle kit. I just love the barbed wire and the glitter!

Digital stamps and papers are great--no mess! LOL If you look at my previous blogs you will see some other fun projects I have created since finding Smeared and Smudged.

Meredith

Kathi
Kim
Alex

Kelli
Monica

Alison
Black Dragon
Steph
Michelle
Kas

Kymberly

Kymberly
Kymberly

Keely
Lisa
Lynda

Sarah
Jean

Terra

Sweet Pea Stamps

2010-02-26T09:55:00.004-05:00

These stamps from Sweet Pea Stamps are so beautiful! I created this ATC sized one using clear embossing powder, alcohol ink/pearl ex mix sprayed over top. Used a marker for the eyes and orange ink smudged on the butterfly and some edges for adding a different color to the mix. Then covered it with pearl ex powder for more shimmer.

This next one I inked with Staz-On black and then colored in with watercolor pencils. I used my brush to smooth out the pencil and put it on a mat then on a card. I added some fun Mermaid style stickers to create this one of a kind card.

Bad Romance

2010-02-24T17:53:00.004-05:00

Most of us have had them....been through them. Smudged and Smeared had an awesome new challenge that really got my brain going. The rock n roll challenge uses a video as inspiration. The first video is by Lady Gaga's Bad Romance video. So here is my layout.

I have some journaling as well as a wonderful quote about a woman scorned. I created a rub on of the Lady Gaga photo (doesn't she remind you a bit of Cher) and did all sorts of fun techinques with this. The black boot with lacings was a white cardstock piece that I spray painted shiny black and punched holes in. I used 4 different types of stamps, some words from the song and the video and combined it all together. The lips down the side are clear embossed with spray ink/pearl ex mix over them.

Finished ATC

2010-02-11T13:53:00.002-05:00

Here is one of the finished ATC's. I printed out MajorTigger's digital paper from her Wild Paper set, cut it, inked the edges, added mulberry paper and a flower with brad in the middle. I like how it turned out. They will each be a little bit different and I will get photos of them before I send them out.

Artist Trading Cards

2010-02-10T13:02:00.003-05:00

I love the stamps my best friend, and amazing designer, Deb aka MajorTigger created. They are stunning! Here is the link to the Joy stamp. I joined a group called Smeared and Smudged and they have an Artist Trading Card challenge. This month it is aged and distressed and so I thought I would used the gorgeous stamp, print it in a brown, tear the edges, add tea dye, color in the stamp using ink and layer it onto the ATC. This is what I have so far. I really love how it is turning out so I wanted to share.

Awesome Stamps!

2010-01-30T19:16:00.004-05:00

I have been searching for special stamps. High, low, everywhere. Well I found a place called Smeared and Smudged that has many talented artists. I looked at some of the stunning stamps they were using and here are a few new places to look.

My new dream stamps reside here: Sweet Pea Stamps

Just look at the gorgeous fairies! Ching-chou Kuik is an amazing artist and has used her art to create the most fantastic stamps. I want them all! If you look at Smeared and Smudged you can see how unique others have made the stamps. Love them!

Next try Queen Kat Designs. She has a blog where you can see the stamps in action. I really like the following ones...
Che Glison She has the cutest stamps! I love the goth, fairies, and vamp kids....very interesting. When you click on one of the thumbnails you can see what someone else did with the stamp. Very cool!

Looking for stamps with attitude? Look no further than Bombshell Stamps. Tattoo style stamps from flames and cars to old style pin up girls and more.

Looking for old ephemera to use with your vintage art? Try The Vintage Moth! Be sure to leave your thanks and only use the scans for your personal work.

What about Fairies, Unicorns and Dragons? Check out Faerie Song Stamps.

Enjoy!

Altered Art--Today's subject--Bags

2010-01-29T23:43:00.005-05:00

I saw a challenge to go to the Dollar Store and purchase a bag then alter it. I found a few interesting bags there but choose this one with fish in what looks like a pond shape...Here is the before photo:

Close up of the fishies:

I took Pearl Ex powder and put it on the water area -- it is tough to tell from the photos, but it gives a nice shimmer. I used a toothpick and a plastic knife to put gold liquid beads on the fish. Once that was dry I added the green rhinestones for the eyes. Using Diamond Glaze I made little bubbles coming from the fish. I took flower petals and put them together to make a lotus blossom and fixed it to the "pond" using a gold brad. I finished the bag off with beaded trim at the top.

I was thinking of putting flowers on the handles but I couldn't find the flowers I know I have. Another thought for the handles was to use a flower lei, but I think they all got used for something else. Here are the finished pics.

Imperfect

2010-01-16T17:40:00.004-05:00

Does anyone else out in cyberspace scrapping get tired of all the perfect layouts? Every layout seems to be about the perfect husband, kids, house, pets, life.... but life isn't always "perfect". It is harsh, messy, painful, cruel and sometime downright horrible. I have a lot of stories written down and stored in my head. I have things I have wanted to get out but never do it in layouts because that is so taboo. Well no more. These events made me the person I am. I have chosen different ways, different practices and broken many many cycles that could still be going for my family if I didn't choose to survive those things. To keep going despite the obstacles and the stupidity of others. Despite the choices others attempted to impose on me.

I am going to start working on stark truths. Things I am proud of, things I still have nightmares about, things I have a hatred for, things I miss, things I loved. Some will be dark and scary....some will be sad. All will show how victorious I have been and when my children are older or curious they can look at these layouts and know I have worked so hard to give them more love and support--to treat them as human beings with true choices--and not just an adult who "owns" their children. An adult who could beat them, scream at them, hit them with cars....I am sure some people will be offended...some will be surprised. Some won't care and some will read and wonder why they never did anything to help me. I do not worry about those things. I survived on my own... Always on my own. I pulled myself up, I got through and moved on.

I have a wonderful husband and family now. Although they will never quite understand where I have come from they will always love me. They have seen the cruelty of my family up close and quite too personal for them and have asked that we no longer have contact with them. I am fine with that and it actually feels GOOD! I am sure there are people who will see this post and say I need to be forgiving, etc etc but when the issues never stop, the emotional and verbal abuse never stops, when the physical abuse is still present with grandchildren, when those people never ever change, I do not need to keep myself around them. I may understand WHY they choose to be that way. I may understand why they try to project their issues on me or why they believe untruths about me, but I will no longer be the peacemaker. I will only be the survivor, the one that breaks the cycle. I have already begun with my children. Who else out there has done or is in the process of the same? Join me! Shout it out!

SUNSHINE!

2010-01-14T14:39:00.003-05:00

We actually have sunshine today! Whoot! Kids have been having a great day playing in the snow and sun. My son made an adorable snow man too, will get pics up soon. In the meantime I have been waiting for the sun and trying to think happy sunny thoughts. So I went back to summer photos and created this layout using Kiki's Age of Aquarius by Kiki Halbert of Scrapbook-elements.com although I played a lot with the background....

I have another layout I am working on, but need to find photos of myself first. I forgot to move pics from my previous laptop to this one... *sigh* If it is sunny where you are enjoy it while you can!

SCF--Snow Cold Funk

2010-01-12T14:58:00.004-05:00

What is it about this weather that makes me so miserable? Is it just the cold and snow? Maybe the bleak days with no sun and never knowing for sure what time of day it is because it all looks the same? Bleh!

I have a secret.....I have SCF. Snow Cold Funk. It is kind of like SAD but it only happens when there is lots of snow and no sun. I never thought of myself as a depressed person, I love being alive and fight to remain so...but dang this weather is killing me! LOL

So my newly minted crafting room has a fresh coat of Mango color on the wall to give me inspiration (they say orange tones do that) and to give me a bit of a tropical flavor to this gloomy January.

That is one of the little desk area....not completely little...but so nice. I am working on getting the room all set up so that I can do all the things I love in here and have a place to put it all away! Now to just get a comfy chair! Still, I have gotten to do some digi-scrapping in here--lots of light during the day. Not sunny mind you, but daylight bounces off the snow too...HA!

See, I am trying to think warmer and these summer photos work well for that. I used Deanna Patterson's (Shabby Scrap Designs) Harvest Moon Mini for this June desktop layout. Ok enough for today. More this week!

Once more, with photos!

2009-12-22T09:48:00.005-05:00

I am so excited to get to use these scraplets I made....here are the results:

These layouts were made using Wrapped Around Christmas by Deanna Patterson of Shabby Scrap Designs.

A Blog Award

2009-12-21T01:23:00.006-05:00

It is always nice to be noticed and recognized for something you love to do. I was given an award by MajorTigger if you haven't seen her work be sure to hop on over there and take a peek.

5 Things about me:

1. I love being involved with theater and music. There is something wonderful about transforming into someone else for a show that just feels good.

2. I am a survivor. I have stared evil and death in the face, fought fiercely and won.

3. I am a loyal friend and love my close friends dearly.

4. I live life with a passion in all things. I am very passionate--love, anger, happiness, cooking, crafting, everything is done with gusto! :)

5. I love to hibernate in the winter! I could spend the whole day snuggled up under blankets reading to kids or watching movies or documentaries with them. Or cooking over a warm stove/oven! If we aren't crafting or learning, we are hibernating--although still learning! lol

Five blogs I love (other than MajorTigger as she gave me the award and is so incredibly amazing there are no words...although maybe Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious would work) in no particular order:

Linda Walton/Bon Scrapatit: For being a cheerleader, confidence builder and great digi-scrap friend, Linda has "been there, done that" and can send cyber hugs to boost you up. She is also an amazing designer!

Kiki Halbert Design: This "up and coming" designer worked for 3S when I was there and I always enjoyed her work. She is fun and always creating! Thanks Kiki for choosing me for your CT Team, I am loving it!

Rina Kroes: Rina is a fabulous person and wonderful designer. I originally met her at 3S and have followed her work ever since. She is sweet, kind and very talented.

Deanna Patterson: When 3S was closing, Deanna gave me a place to hang my layout designer hat. She has helped me see that I am a designer and have an eye for layouts....even some of my stranger ones...I can be unique and myself and she loves it. I appreciate her friendship and her design skills.

Kimmi Stewart: This designer has been through so much...maybe that is why I love all these designers so much--we all can relate and empathize with each other while pushing and encouraging each other on to victory! :) Kimmi's designs are always a joy to work with. She is fantastic!

If you haven't gone to check out these wonderful woman and designers please do. Read through some of their blog posts, get to know them and then thank them. Their designs help layout artists like myself to grow and create.

As for Major Tigger, I want to thank her again for this award. This has been a difficult year in many ways and I don't think I could have gotten through it without her honesty, friendship, caring and wit/humor. I am thankful that we met 10 years ago and that she has let me into her "loner" world of art and vision. She has given me so much inspiration, hope and confidence--I hope she realizes what a blessing she has been in my life. Great Big Cyber Hugs from SuperMom!

Desktop Layout

2009-12-15T15:29:00.003-05:00

I am creating 12 months of desktop layouts for my MIL for her new computer. This is the first layout featuring my dd and her recent hair cut to give her hair to Locks of Love for Christmas.

Kit: Kiki's Snowberry Punched Up by Kiki Halbert Designs, Scrapbook-Elements.com; Font: Penshurst

More Christmas Scraplets!!!

2009-12-14T18:41:00.005-05:00

These next scraplets are using more modern colors for the winter/Christmas season. I just love how they look! I used Kiki's Snowberry Punched Up by Kiki Halbert Designs at Scrapbook-Elements.com (which comes with alphas too!!!) Get sparkly and plush with Snowberry Punched Up!

Scraplets!

2009-12-10T09:11:00.003-05:00

I have been working on scraplets for Christmas photos and am excited how they are turning out. The first one was made using Twas the Night and the last 2 were made using Wrapped Around Christmas both by Deanna Patterson of Shabby Scrap Designs.

12 Days of Christmas

2009-12-01T13:48:00.003-05:00

I am so excited! I have decided to create desktops for each month of next year and give them as a gift to my MIL. I had been keeping up on designing and sending them at the end of each month for the next months use....but I get behind (3 kids homeschooling, theater, TV show filmings....) and forget to work on them. So I am creating them now and will put them on a disk for giving to her for Christmas. They are coming to visit the 16th - 20th. I already know what my present is--they are helping me redesign the craft room! This room had a sink and cabinets in it (upstairs) and they are going to rip that out and help build some really cool stuff including a fold out table and this thing my hubby designed for my projects in progress (PIP). I can't wait to see how it turns out. What color should i paint the room??? Crafting should have something fun and not too overwhelming...hum

While we wait to see how it goes I will continue to post layouts here. First a few fab shots of my eldest son....Growing up so fast!

Or how about this young lady with her after Lock of Love hairdo?

Contest Entered

2009-11-20T16:28:00.001-05:00

I would love it if you would vote for my layout here:
Contest Layout

Christmas Spirit

2009-11-18T13:35:00.005-05:00

Usually I am a "Not until after Thanksgiving" kind of girl. I don't even want to look at decorations let alone listen to Christmas music until then. WHY? Because it has become so commercialized that people have lost the true meaning of the holiday.

This year is different. I want to decorate NOW! I am humming songs, watching Christmas movies and designing cards, layouts and more. What is going on here!!!! I think it is because I know that I don't care about the stores and what the world is doing to the holiday, but that I have the spirit and am ready to DO something with it. I have knitted items to take for the Women's shelter, I have started creating our Christmas decorations for in the living room and here are a few of the layouts I am prepping for the photos!!!

The above scraplet was created using Deanna Patterson's Gingerbread Man kit and the one below was using her Winter's Night scrapkit both found at Shabby Scrap Designs.

Layouts

2009-10-29T15:53:00.002-04:00

I created some new layouts using Feeling Fall by Deanna Patterson of Shabby Scrap Designs. I hope you will enjoy them.

Suicide, memories on a rainy day

2009-10-28T23:24:00.002-04:00

I had a dream last month about a couple people I knew in school. It was people I had actually cared about and tried to keep up on. Today I found out one of them committed suicide around the same time I was having the dreams, during Wizard of Oz practices. I hadn't been to the website in a while.... Another friend contacted me because he thought I would want to know. I have been crying or numb since.

I will never understand all the factors that lead someone to take their own life. I know I have been through many things sometimes wondering if I should continue to live. I know there were times growing up I thought it might be easier to be dead, gone... I know after being stalked, raped, beaten up and left for dead on my own doorstep I could have attempted it. I drank a lot back then to get rid of the nightmares. I turned things around and decided it would be better for me to help others and be there for those who needed help through trying times. To show those pedophiles and rapists that I am stronger than they are. That I can make something of my life, my love, my way... To stand up to my abusers, family and not, and say you can't treat me this way any longer...

This man was the most amazing drummer I had ever heard play. I met him in 2nd grade and he loved his drums. In 5th grade he got permission to play a small (maybe 2 or 3 songs) set for us on the last day of school. I only remember Alice Cooper's School's Out and thought how fantastic this was, I knew he would be famous or in a famous band someday. He was.

Maybe his death has brought to mind all the pain and torture this world can bring down on us...maybe how short life can be....maybe it is the thought I never got to thank him or tell him how I appreciated how kind he was to me in HS when he could have easily been a jerk like so many others. How much I loved that he got to be our drummer for Show Choir or how much his kindness in classes meant....

Maybe it just reminds me of others I have lost to things that make no sense... Aids/HIV....drunk drivers....murder......overdose of drugs.... Or things that are at least understandable like heart attacks, but that happen too soon....

I have spent a lot of time crying, it just hurts. Maybe it is just the "old soul" in me coming out, maybe it is just sad....but on a rainy day like today, all the painful hurts are oozing to the surface hoping to be washed away by the drops...

Layout of the Week

2009-10-12T00:57:00.001-04:00

I was pretty excited to find out this layout had been chosen as Layout of the Week over at Nuts4Digi .

Make-A-Wish foundation and Creative Memories

2009-10-07T12:42:00.005-04:00

I just recently became a Creative Memories consultant and really love the products. I have used many of them for years. My pens just started drying out and I have had them for 10 years, but pens from craft stores haven't lasted more than a year or two. I love all the shapes and the punches. I have had kids drop, smash together, toss and misuse them but they keep working through it all.

I recently purchased the new Wishes and Dreams set with the starburst punch and LOVE it. I will be posting my versions of the pages and borders I have made with it soon. You can find more information at the Creative Memories website. If you would like to order be sure to add it to your basket and on checkout be sure to put my name as your consultant; Amberlee Batchelor. I will send free gifts to anyone who buys from me and helps to support the wonderful Make-A-Wish foundation. You can help a child in need AND scrapbook your memories! (Please note I am unable to do fundraising or other discounts through the website, thank you for your understanding.)

Mondays with Da album

2009-09-08T03:02:00.000-04:00

And the last photo in our vacation album! Special thanks to Deanna Patterson for her wonderful Mondays with Da album kit.

Mondays with Da album

2009-09-07T02:58:00.000-04:00

A photo of most of the great-grandkids with my DHs grandma. It is such a blessing to have her here. The kids had such a blast!

Mondays with Da album

2009-09-06T02:51:00.000-04:00

I am highlighting this wonderful album by Deanna Patterson of Shabby Scrap Designs here this week. I am busy with practices for Wizard of Oz (we open the 11th!) and don't have a lot of time, so I wanted to get these set up to go. I hope you enjoy them.

This layout is of DHs dad who had just gotten home from Afghanistan (he is in the National Guard). We were all very happy to have him home. He looks happy to be back!

Mondays with Da album

2009-09-05T02:48:00.001-04:00

More photos from our fun week in Northern Michigan. I just love all the lakes and rivers, even if it was a bit chilly. The forests and beaches are amazing and being together was even better.

Talking to Myself

2009-09-04T02:41:00.003-04:00

I know there really isn't much reason for me to continue writing this blog, I think 2 people read it once in a while. LOL It is helpful for me to get my feelings out. I like to put my graphic design/art on here as well, even if it is just so I can see it.

I did this layout of my DHs family get together this summer:

I used Deanna Patterson's Monday's With Da Album. I actually created a whole album of summer photos from this event! I will put the rest on this week.

Wizard of Oz

2009-09-02T17:35:00.002-04:00

It is a good thing I am in this show right now as the Wicked Witch, it will be so cathartic. I am able to get all that anger out on stage and really work toward healing myself. I love how quiet it has been since the phones were turned off a few months back. With the email being filtered right back to the offender that should help as well. I look forward to enjoying life and not feeling I have to conform to something someone else has designated. I wish I could have done that back in High School...but parents have all the authority and can keep you from dreams they may think are stupid or "wrong". One thing I have learned from having children of my own is that I am just a facilitator. I am not a dictator, I am not the one who has to live the life they choose. I am here to help them reach for the stars, find what they love and are passionate about. I am here to love them no matter what mistakes they make and not make them feel unworthy and less than 3rd class citizens. I am here to listen and hold them when they need. Take them to the library or auditions for a show, help them get the computer software they want, help them take classes, be there to give them advice when they ask.

I am not perfect, never will be, but I can strive for more....and give something better to my children.

Finding Hatred

2009-09-01T17:34:00.005-04:00

I never thought I would get to this point in my life. I guess I knew it was coming. I have been abused and treated like crap for so long, I guess you kind of get used to it--until people come along that treat you with love, compassion and honesty and you realize just how different it should be....Maybe it is part of the letting go, maybe it is defense, either way I have never felt such venom and hatred at anyone--but it is there under the surface waiting to explode because I finally realize that the only way to get rid of the cancerous feelings is to let go and cut them out of my life altogether.

I will never ever understand family that believes "blood is thicker than water" but treats you like CRAP and expects you to pre purchase something for them and wait to be paid....I don't understand family that thinks it's ok to show up unannounced, or invite themselves over when it is convenient for them. I don't understand family that claims to believe in God and Jesus and will treat people they meet on the street better than their family. I am sick and tired of having to deal with family. We got rid of our cell phones so we didn't have deal with listening to them on the phone for hours at a time with no word in edge-wise. Or my personal favorite, "I have to sing this tonight, listen..." sing the entire song on my voicemail...."Isn't it wonderful". YUCK! There is unfortunately still email. So I am setting up a system to deal with that as well because I am tired of being blamed for things that are NOT my fault or things my sister doesn't want to take responsibility for. I am tired of listening to the lies and the BS and I WILL NOT TAKE IT ANYMORE! I AM DONE! I wanted to have a family that was kind and caring and I thought maybe my sisters and mom would grow out of it, but they never have. The only smart one is my little sister who lives in CA and left long ago. She tries to stay in touch, but I am sure she feels the same way about being judged for her choices. Well, I am tired of it. I have been judged on my choices since I was 8 or 9 years old. I will be who I am and spend my time with those who really matter to me.

I guess maybe it would seem harsh to tell a sister or parent to never email you anymore because it just isn't worth your time, but it isn't and I don't want her around me or my children. I don't want anything to do with her kids either. I used to think if something happened or the kids were taken away we would help, but I don't want to deal with the level of neglect and abuse they have dealt with just because we are "family". Where is forgiveness and compassion??? I can't give anymore. Even Jesus kicked the dust off his sandals and walked away at some point.

Great Grands

2009-08-29T11:36:00.002-04:00

This photo is missing 3 or 4 of the great grandchildren, but it was some get together. I used a kit called Heather Falls by Deanna Patterson of Shabby Scrap Designs. The word art is by Bethany at Elegant Word Art.

If I were a Dinosaur

2009-08-26T00:19:00.001-04:00

We love our museums here and the Dino exhibit is a favorite. I love this photo and the kit was made by Deanna Patterson of Shabby Scraps Designs.

Fun Stuff

2009-08-03T11:23:00.002-04:00

I created this desktop for August using photos from our vacation. I like how it turned out. The papers are from His Life by Deanna Patterson of Shabby Scrap Designs.

Hi there, remember me?

2009-07-14T07:46:00.006-04:00

Well we have been busy! We auditioned for a theater show and we all got parts. Hopefully it will be a wonderful experience -- especially as it is the 2nd time we have all done Wizard of Oz. It will be interesting to see this director and choreographers take on the show. Hubby and I will reprise our roles as Lion and Wicked Witch. Eldest son got the role of the Scarecrow, 2nd son will be the munchkin Coroner and flying monkey, dd is a munchkin/monkey and dancer. Our first practice was very professional --this is a good thing!

In the meantime I have been creating layouts so here are a couple...

My dd and a new found friend. The kit is Monna Lainson's adorable Burst of Spring set found at One Single Seed.

This is a desktop I got from Rina Kroes website. One of her very talented creative team members, Denise, created this layout using Rina's Something Nautical scrapkit. Isn't it cute! You can get it free at Rina's site.

Layouts Updated

2009-06-17T19:37:00.002-04:00

Here are the photos I put into the layouts I made...the layout was perfect for the shots I wanted to put in.

Summer Album started

2009-05-28T20:36:00.004-04:00

I have been playing around and this has created a few fun pages and a couple quickpages for a summer album. Using Tilly, a kit by Deanna Patterson of Shabby Scrap Designs and One Single Seed, I have these 2 pages for my album:

Beauty and the Belle

2009-05-24T13:04:00.003-04:00

My dd got to meet Belle from Beauty and the Beast in Pittsburgh. Belle was quite sweet and we got to get some photos. Wish we could have seen the show.

Kit: Willow Wisp by Deanna Patterson of Shabby Scrap Designs and One Single Seed
Font: The King and Queen and Chopin Script

Loneliness

2009-05-20T16:17:00.003-04:00

We moved here 2 years ago with big hopes and bright dreams. Although we are a close family and love to be together, I really thought we would meet some people who we could be good friends with. (Our closest and dearest friends are the family of Major Tigger Scraps, but we aren't close enough to see weekly.) We thought maybe our church would be a great place for that. However it hasn't been.

Maybe I shouldn't care, but it bothers me. I have an introverted side, but I like social interactions. I am missing theater dreadfully!
I have been so emotional lately and not sleeping well--I feel like such a mess. I am sure it will pass, I have always relied on my DH and he on me as we have been all we have had since getting married. Things that have happened lately have just shown me how lonely it really is here. I hope all our friends know how much we love them and how when we do get to visit how much it means to us that we are still close friends.

Ok onto a nice spring layout. This is from Willow Wisp kit by Deanna Patterson of Shabby Scrap Designs (also found at One Single Seed!). I love this photo we caught with a lovely couple riding through the park. How fun, and they looked so natural.

Hearts and Souls

2009-05-20T16:12:00.001-04:00

Looking at a photo of me before children and my dd I could see the similarities and differences and was really struck by how beautiful she is and how I never felt that way.
Like mother like daughter, we have so many similarities yet can celebrate the differences that make us independent
and separate while being closely bonded. We have different passions, big hearts, and a love two souls, one mother one daughter, should have!

Kit: Momma by Deanna Patterson, OSS

journaling: Society will never see the same beauty that we see. They will look upon our faces...our body shapes and ask why we aren’t like so and so. But we know that our beauty shines from our hearts and not a magazine cover.

Like mother like daughter, we have so many similarities yet can celebrate the differences that make us independent
and separate while being closely bonded. We have different passions, big hearts, and a love two souls, one mother one daughter, should have!

Mother's Day

2009-05-09T02:57:00.003-04:00

I know this isn't the most popular blog, I started it as a way to keep track of what I was doing...add a few layouts, keep in touch with less than a handful of people....A way to reach out through cyberspace, a bit of online therapy with a dash of daily life tossed in. I am not prolific, most days I have little to say. However, I am always creating layouts, even if they don't show up here.

As Mother's Day is almost here (it is also our wedding anniversary this year) I wanted create something for my mom. My sister was given a bunch of photos to scan for my mom and sent me some through email. I love this photo of my mom and thought it would make a great layout. I used a new kit from Deanna Patterson (Shabby Scrap Designs and One Single Seed) called Momma. It is a beautiful kit that was the perfect touch for making this old black and white photo pop but still look soft and gorgeous. I had to fix the picture just a tad, but it looks perfect--I think.

A new day

2009-04-22T10:45:00.004-04:00

So here we are, it's Wednesday--middle of the week. It is much cooler today and although I don't see rain yet, it is grey out. The grass, on the other hand, has gotten huge and is a nice lush green! Either way, as you can see...."Spring is the time when "da bears" come out!"...(Kit is the April Mega Kit from One Single Seed...so much I can do with this set).

Yesterday we went to a very cool shop called One Up on the Southside and T got his first, brand spankin new Skateboard!!! Yes, I know....I am sure many of you are seeing hospital visits to come. However, if you had seen him his first time on a board and seen the absolute GLEE on his face you wouldn't have been able to resist that freckled smile either. I will post pics of the Boy and his Board soon. Even the people in the store were surprised he had good balance. He is always moving so much, maybe the board can just keep up with him??? LOL

His sister wants a scooter, she thinks the skateboard would be too difficult without something to hang on too. That is fine with me. She is planning for it and researching online too. I love the internet!

And the Band Played on

2009-04-20T10:23:00.003-04:00

Have you checked out Pandora yet? Not the old legend of the woman who opened the box that would destroy the world, but the internet radio service. It is free and easy to use and I am hooked. I can create playlists, listen to groups new and old, find new music to purchase and more! So far I have rediscovered old bands I loved to listen to, added a few fun and funky options and created a couple of extremely eclectic "stations" to listen to.

My FIL is scheduled to ship out to Georgia this Saturday to prepare for his next trip which will take him to Kwuait and then off to Kabul. We'll keep you posted. In the meantime here is a layout of my son with his grandpa.

I need to redo this in a rectangular version and make it fit Grandpa's iPod Touch. He already has a set of layouts for his Touch.

New Featured Designer at the Seed

2009-04-10T14:42:00.004-04:00

Ladybug Pages is the featured designer this month and she is having a huge sale!!! Come check it out. She has some really cute designs.

I have been busy preparing for a Good Friday concert--which is tonight! We have practiced and prepped and now it is time to get ready and go. Have a wonderful Resurrection weekend.

Vote please!

2009-04-06T07:49:00.003-04:00

I don't think there is much time left, but One Single Seed is having it's voting for the March Mini Album contest. I entered my altered art digital mini album, it is the only digi one over there! So if you like it, please vote for me! Here is the link:

March Contest

It just happens to be the very first photo. To vote click on the little round button and scroll down to the vote button. Thanks so much!

Here is another layout I did using the new April Mega kit at OSS...The sketch was created by Nancy aka SillyGrama.

April Mega Kit at One Single Seed!

2009-04-01T22:41:00.003-04:00

This is a GIGANTIC mega kit! Seriously! I have so many beautiful papers and elements to choose from I could make whole albums just from this one amazing kit. Here is the preview:

This preview does not do justice to the wonderful items inside. It is currently on sale at One Single Seed--get it quick! Only $3.50 for 20 files worth of April!

Mixed Emotions

2009-03-24T12:17:00.007-04:00

Kit: Army Man by Kelly Dietert (formerly of 3Scrapateers)

I won't be in much this week as we are bustling around getting ready to go out of town for the weekend. It is one of those mixed emotion vacations. My father-in-law, aka Dad, is a member of the Michigan National Guard. He is going to Afghanistan in April and this is the only chance we will have to go spend time with him, give huggs and kisses, before he leaves. His "mission" to Afghanistan is 2-fold. First, he is relieving another soldier so the soldier may go home to his family. The soldiers baby has a fatal disease and he is needed at home. Our Dad is going to take his place so he may be with his wife and children at this time.

It is also a Humanitarian Aid mission. Dad will be there to help others, which he is so good at now. He is a Physician's Assistant in our normal world, and will be using that talent and skill as well as his Lt. Col-ness to help those in need in Afghanistan. However, we all know that being a solider, a good man, and one who loves others enough to go in the place of this young father doesn't keep bullets from flying or bombs from going off. Kabul isn't the hot vacation spot like the Bahamas, and so the emotions are high as we think of packing to go see "Grandpa".

The children seem completely unphased by this prospect. They know he is going to help others. They know there is war over there, but it seems so far away that I don't think they realize there is possible danger. Or maybe they have that faith that children have, that faith that says there is nothing to fear and that all will be well no matter how long Dad will be gone. I have mixed emotions only because he will be so far away from us. More than the 12 hr drive it is to visit them now. That doesn't mean no worry sneaks in at all, I wouldn't be human otherwise!

I worry most for my husband who is sensitive and loving. He adores and reveres his father. He knows what a wonderful man his dad is and how much he is loved by him. He is not ready to lose him. I remind him all we can do is pray and love him. It won't be easy.

Dad is only supposed to be gone for 4-5 months, but that is a long time to us. I don't know how career military have gone to the battlefield for 18 months or a couple years at a time leaving their families. I wonder how young men go on tours of duty in the hottest zones of our world. I know many are peace loving individuals who really care about our brothers and sisters of all shapes, sizes, colors, religions and creeds and have chosen to do their best as soldiers of the USA. I know that the men who will meet Dad will realize you don't have to be a "typical soldier" to be in the military. That you can be kind, caring, to the point and loving....even peaceful. I am proud to know that he will be a great example of what a man can become. An example of being tough without cruelty, sensitive without being a "sissy" (lol), honest, smart, kind and understanding with a dash of good humor. They are getting a wonderful man, they better treat him well.

Hooray a Working Scanner!

2009-03-22T07:00:00.004-04:00

Although I am still without a laptop computer, I have gotten a new scanner--and I love it! I can't wait to have the laptop too, so I can use them together. This is a really really nice portable scanner. I was joking with my DH that with the Canon CanoScan LIDE 200, I could go out into the woods and scan the leaves right from the trees! LOL

It is USB powered and plugs right into the computer for power and use. It is super clear too. I scanned in a Q-tip, puzzle piece, a ribbon and lots of photos and they all look amazing. I can't wait to play with it some more.

I have been churning out layouts, mostly because I have a very short time on the shared computer so I have to do them quickly! Here is another one:

I used the March Mega kit from OSS for the backgrounds, mat, flowers behind the picture. The ribbon between the backgrounds and wrapped on the photo are from BonScrapatite, I made the journaling tag and the Iron Alpha is by Bethany of Elegant Word Art.

BUGS!

2009-03-21T07:00:00.003-04:00

My dear friend MajorTigger went and made bugs look completely adorable! I don't usually like bugs, but these made me want to create a layout for spring. So here are here bugs one her linen paper background. Just click on the linked names to be taken to her page so you can download these lovely critters (and shroom....oh and cute frog too) right away!

She has over 180 freebies on her blog!!!! WOW. She is completely amazing, be sure to leave her some love too.

Week 3 Layout

2009-03-20T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here is the layout I created yesterday for the 3rd round of the Supreme Team VII contest. Another wonderful kit called Kick Back and Relax by One Moment At A Time over at GoDigitalScrapbooking.com. The word art is also over at GDS; Just Relax by JAB Designs. I loved the colors in this set and the beautiful elements! So I found a photo from a trip to the Metro Parks and put it front and center in this layout.

Week 2 Layout

2009-03-19T07:00:00.000-04:00

I think this was my favorite layout I created last week. I captures a moment of peace... a moment of silence, a moment when this lovely child of mine was not moving...he was actually asleep! I know it is hard to believe, especially for any who know this kid. LOL He is my study in perpetual motion!

This lovely kit is called Waiting for You kit by Majula Designs at GoDigital Scrapbooking. I don't usually like pastels, or baby kits, but this one is beautiful. So sweet and perfect for a boy or a girl.

Go Digital Scrapbooking

2009-03-18T19:19:00.004-04:00

About the time I entered my name for the Creative Team at One Single Seed, I also entered the design contest at ScrapMatters AND the competition for GoDigitalScrapbooking.com. I never thought I would get picked right away for One Single Seed and after I was I thought for sure that GDS wouldn't pick me to move from Round One.....Wellllllll....they did. Here was my layout for week one:

This layout was created using the kit Your Day by Dani Alencar, GoDigitalScrapbooking

I will post the layouts for Week 2 and Week 3 tomorrow and Friday. Yes, I have moved on to the 3rd round and I am so darn excited!!!!

Wow! Another Award!

2009-03-16T11:07:00.003-04:00

I was looking at my comments from the week and there was a note from Tishia that she was giving me a blog award! Granted, my Portuguese is rusty, but I am pretty sure the award says "We are Women well resolved" or "decided" basically "determined" which is quite fitting. (Yes I actually studied in Brazil for a summer...) Very cool. So now to pass it along to other resolute women I know:

1. I wouldn't be attempting to design with out Major Tigger.

2. I wouldn't still be looking to create layouts for creative teams without Deanna Patterson of Shabby Scrap Designs or

3. Linda Walton of Bon Scrapitit, who constantly gives me encouragement and love

4. I wouldn't have a new scrapping home without the wonderful One Single Seed.

5.Kimberly Stewart, designer extraordinaire! She has some lovely freebies right now too.

6. Rina Kroes, another simply fantastic designer (have you seen her frames!!!!)

7. Tammy Dunlap, a woman determined, a sweet friend--she really deserves this award too!

Thats all I have for now. Thanks again for all the great comments. We got a new amazing scanner (finally) so I hope to be coming out with some funky cool stuff soon. :)

The rest of the mini

2009-03-13T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here are the other pages for the mini I started earlier. I like how these turned out. I think I am going to print them and make an album for them to go in.

The photo is from a sunset on Christmas 2008 through our back window. The backgrounds and leaves are from One Fine Day; Frame from Kindred Spirits; Heart recolored for this layout is from Bits of this and that; All are by Deanna Patterson of Shabby Scrap Designs.

The statue is from a photo I took. The kit is Kindred Spirit by Deanna Patterson, Shabby Scrap Designs. I love this set, very Easter! Gorgeous!

iMatter

2009-03-12T07:00:00.002-04:00

I am excited to announce that I have been accepted as a Creative Team member for One Single Seed! So I have a new layout to commemorate why iMatter. The poem was written by my DH today after I mentioned the title of the challenege. I thought of iMatter -- written like iPod. Then he mentioned Albert Einstien and the definition of matter. We had an interesting discussion. So he wrote the words and I created the layout!

Kit: March Mega Kit from One Single Seed
Journaling:
I, Matter
Occupy three obvious physical dimensions
Have volume, affect my environment
Action / reaction, cause / effect
I, Mother
Occupy the not so obvious
spaces in hearts and minds
Inspire creative outbursts
Charge or quell passions
as the moment requires
My words and deeds
expand beyond the here and now
they stretch on to the horizon
through my children
to my community
to the world around.
I, Matter

GRAND OPENING!!!

2009-03-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

You may have heard of Treasures to Scrap, but it has been given a makeover, renamed and is having it's Grand Opening this week as One Single Seed! Join them this week for all sorts of cool stuff! Fun challenges, the store is on sale and so much more! The OSS has a paper store and a digi store. Very cool. I know there is an acrylic album I have had my eye on, I will have to check that out! Here is all the details:

Come on over and have some fun!

Have you ever dealt with...

2009-03-10T07:00:00.003-04:00

I am sure we have all been there listening to people say things they shouldn't, gossiping or speaking about someone out of turn. How many of us actually stand up for those people anymore? Is that a lost art? I know I stand up for them and regularly ask people not to speak of anyone in a negative manner. You can talk to me about problems but when you start naming names instead of just wanting to vent the issue, I put my foot down.

So what happens when you are the brunt? Do you seek the person out and try to discuss the problem with them? I do. Usually the offender is not sure how to handle being caught. This time it was tuck the tail and RUN (literally) around the corner because they knew they had been caught lying...

The person they were talking to turned red and was quite surprised that I refused to discuss the problem with them. I explained that it was wrong to take it to a third party and that they should have said they didn't want to hear it. The person should talk to me OR the person in charge. That is it. Being a confidential type of person I REFUSE to talk about others behind their back that way. If I can't say it to their faces, I don't say it...

So this ordeal, (that was supposedly over the first day in email, but has lasted over a week now because the nameless person has talked to almost everyone I know slandering me,) has given me a chance to get out my frustrations in altered digi-art! Whoo hoo!

This last ATC is a tribute to my husband who did stand up for me when he overheard the person starting to tell yet another person something untrue. What would I do with out him? Love definately conquers all....

So here you go. If you like them and would like to have them for your own collection (ATCs) I will package them up as freebies and give them away. Let me know if you like them. I think the first one is my favorite, although the Lies one is haunting. I have one more I am working on to finish this up.

Not ready yet I guess...& Freebie

2009-03-09T04:49:00.009-04:00

The Design Star contestants moving on to round 2 have been named and only 24 of 90+ made it to that round. I was not one of them. Considering I have never been a designer and everything I did for my kit was completely learned on the fly the week it was made, I think I did really well. I am proud of my Travel kit and glad I got a chance to toss it into the pot with seasoned pros and amateurs. I got a lot of great comments and want to offer my kit to you here as a fun freebie! Enjoy!

http://www.box.net/shared/6m71ypipbn

http://www.box.net/shared/poecigtche

http://www.box.net/shared/e25lkiz24v

We all win!

2009-03-07T02:03:00.004-05:00

You all know I have tossed my hat into the design star contest over at ScrapMatters. They just sweetened the pot...we are all waiting as patiently as possible so they decided to see how many people we can get to register at the site to look at our work and pick up over 100 FREE Mini kits!!!!! So here is what you do:

First when you go to ScrapMatters and register be sure to use my user name amberlee16 as the referral name. That way I get credit for you.

Then you will be able to learn about this gorgeous FREE kit you will receive just for registering in the forum and the store then uploading 10 layouts to the gallery! (They have a 5 a day limit)

After you do that go to the gallery and look at all the Design Star Contest participants mini kits. There are links in each one for downloading the mini kits. They are all so adorable and amazing. I know you will love them!

You are helping me toward winning prizes and I am helping you get all sorts of digital scrapbooking kits for FREE!!! Thanks for your help!

Old Kentucky

2009-03-06T14:37:00.002-05:00

Last August we went to Kentucky for my mom's wedding and went by the capitol. It was gorgeous, and another way to think summer. I guess it is working because right now it is 67 outside!!!! On the 6th of March! WOW. So here's to the warm weather.

This layout was created from the ScrapMatters RoadMap Challenge posted this morning. I had soooo much fun with it. You can find the link and all the item info here.

Here is the layout:

Think Summer!

2009-03-05T15:05:00.003-05:00

Sick and tired of the cold? Check out these gorgeous colors and elements by Jeni Hopewell (ScrapMatters) from her adorable At The Beach kit. The Bead Alpha was created by Megan Turnidge also of ScrapMatters. Very cute! The template it is based on was created by Denise Beatty.

Thanks for stopping by today. I haven't heard anything yet about the design contest--so I will just keep myself busy by working on layouts. :) See you tomorrow, maybe there will be news then.

waiting, hoping, waiting, hoping

2009-03-03T23:29:00.004-05:00

The suspense is thick. You can barely see through it. And so we wonder....will we make it to round 2? Will we have the chance to work with an actual designer? When will the cuts be made? In the meantime we try to clean, live and create layouts and pretend nothing is happening outside the norm....but our hearts know otherwise....and so we hear every tick of the clock.

While waiting I attended a Speed Scrap at ScrapMatters. Lots of fun. They challenge you with different things you need to do with your layouts. Here is what I came up with.

All items in this layout were created by Deanna Patterson from Shabby Scrap Designs except for the Heart which is from the blogwear by Kimberly Stewart.

They have more speed scraps coming up for March so feel free to come check it out!

More exciting news!

2009-03-02T10:37:00.007-05:00

Life just keeps getting better and better. Some of you may know I have another addiction....I am addicted to FIBER! Yarns of all shapes and sizes. I love to knit and crochet. Well I have to tell you what I got to do this weekend. I got to meet the funny, amazing, fantabulous Franklin Habit. He has written the most adorable book called "It Itches" which includes adorable cartoons and fun essays from his knitting world. Franklin is the most amazing lace knitter I have ever seen! (hum, sounds like a song parody just waiting to happen..."Amazing Lace") Just look at this! I got to drool on this in person--up close and personal. It is the most gorgeous shade of racy red. OOooooo....

I couldn't help myself. There I was, almost 6ft tall and well...."Fluffy" as Gabriel Iglesias likes to say....and the shawl called to me....no, it screamed "TOUCH ME". I was polite, I did ask if I could touch it. Of course he was gracious (hopefully not afraid for his life as I am larger than life baby!)and said I could. He then donned his nightcap that he had knit from an 18th century pattern he deciphered. He signed my copy of his book in a handwritten script that would make you all jealous! (Even his handwriting is perfect. *sigh*) Well, if he got to wear the hat for our pic together, I got to wear the shawl. And there we are, too adorable for our own good. LOL I am just happy I made him laugh!

Don't worry, my hubby didn't mind. He understands this fiber lust, he can't help but touch all the alpaca, angora and merino skeins when we visit our favorite yarn shop, Natural Stitches.

To Franklin, don't worry, my adoration isn't an obsession or some love sickness, it is more of the sisterly love one would have for a knitter of your caliber. It is a hope that I could learn and grow and maybe, just maybe, eventually knit one fourth as well as you do! Thanks for a wonderful day and for your humor that hits the spot.

ScrapMatters Design Star

2009-03-01T14:53:00.003-05:00

Come on in and look at what the contestants have created! I can't tell you which one I am (we all have numbers for the first week), but I will say I have no trees or adorable little animals (that squirrel is too darn cute!) Go to ScrapMatters and pick up the FREE mini-kits! There should be about 100 of them by Monday night. Enjoy!

Busy Insanity

2009-02-28T00:23:00.002-05:00

I have gone and done it.....a mere scrapbooker has taken on a Designer challenge! I have been busy honing up my Photoshop skills and trying to create something the judges may think warrants a chance to become a real aka professional designer for Scrap Matters. They are looking for the next design "star" and I jumped on the boat.

Come to their site and see what is in store for the 100 people who have signed up to take this on! I am excited about my entry and hope that I can compete with some of the professionals who have joined the contest. I am not allowed to post my papers and elements here, yet, but they will be up on the site next Tuesday evening. I'll be good and not give away which one is mine, as for the first week we are all getting numbers.

I hope they will see I did the best I could with what I know so far and will keep me in the contest. I would love to apprentice with someone like Britt of Britt-ish Designs (see my sidebar, love her!) so cross your fingers, say your prayers or whatever you do to wish me luck! Thanks for your support!

My Blog Won!

2009-02-19T07:00:00.001-05:00

What a cool award! I was so surprised to see my blog won something. It's nice to have friends that nominate you for such wonderful things. Here is what this award says:
"The Premio Dardos is given in "recognition of cultural, ethical, literary, and personal values transmitted in the form of creative and original writing. These stamps were created with the intention of promoting fraternization between bloggers, a way of showing affection and gratitude for work that adds value to the Web."

The award was bestowed upon me my by Major Tigger Scraps who got it from With a Russian/Dutch Heart. A word about Major Tigger Scraps blog, as I can't give her the same award twice...She would be my first choice. She is the epitome of this award. She is brilliant in mind and art, and a wonderful friend to boot! I have seen her work in person on Sets for theater, altered art, and now her digital work has far surpassed what I would expect to be seen in a digital art store for sale. She is a truth seeker, a great mother and I love her dearly. I salute you Major Tigger Scraps! You are an honored and trusted friend. *huggs*

I have been asked to link back to the website that nominated me (which I have and is a permanent sidelink) as well as choose 5 new blogs who fit this description and send them the award as well. Since my best friend and favorite blog has already accepted her award, here are my other 5 (in no particular order!!!):

1. Bon Scrapatitdesigns: Linda has been an online friend and digi-scrapper for years now. I am so proud of her becoming a designer and for her lovely work and blog. She sure can write! She also has beautiful designs, so be sure to leave her some love! She is an amazing lady!

2. Britt-ish Designs: Who wouldn't love a blogger who loves Disney and has such a fun way of writing about things? She also has adorable designs, and I just love her work! Thanks Britt for giving us a positive upbeat outlook and colorful design ideas.

3. Spoonful of Sugar by Jessica Acs is another of my favorite blogs to turn to. She always has the most amazing mini albums, gorgeous paper ideas, and fabulous photos on her blog. Take time to really look at her photos, she has gorgeous photography.....I need a new camera! :) I can't wait to get her book either (payday is coming!!!!)

4. Journal Revolution (the Art Army website) is another of my absolute must haves. They blog about everything and make me laugh, cry and think about the world we live in...They are sisters who have written books together and do super cool altered art projects. They definitely deserve this award! Talk about fun and fearless--Viva la Revolucion!

5. Last and certainly NOT least I want to give this award to Deanna Patterson of Shabby Scraps Design. She picked me up when I was down and gave me something to DO! Her blog is full of beauty and fun. I hope you will enjoy it too. Thanks for believing in me Deanna! Thanks for making gorgeous digital art for us to preserve our memories with!

Now if ya'll would please link back to the blog that passed the award to you (that's me, lol) and then pass it on to five other blogs, we can keep this blog award moving forward. Be sure to check out the blogs that have it already too. Have fun!!!

How cute are these?

2009-02-16T11:59:00.005-05:00

The Pittsburgh Institute of Art has this cool T-Rex that they decorate for the holidays. Well this year, he got cool decor for the Superbowl as well. Check this out!

Of course my dd's favorite part of the parade were.........the horses!

Outside my comfort zone--BIG TIME!

2009-02-03T18:33:00.008-05:00

I just had to do it.....I couldn't avoid it. I don't deal well with large groups of people since having children, among other things....but I just had to do this. I didn't melt down and I didn't completely lose it. I was able to breath (just kept looking up at the clear sky... My kids and husband were just as excited. That's right I went downtown!!! We were LIVE IN PERSON for the STEELERS parade.

My husband works 2 blocks from where the parade would pass. His boss said we could hang out there and stay warm before going down to "ground zero". People were gathering at 9am. The parade started at noon, but it took another 30 mins to get to us.

I had a small panic attack waiting for Jason to join us, but I did well. He got there just before noon (he had to do some work at least) and then we stood together as a family and cheered, waved our terrible towel, chatted with other Pittsburgers and waited for the marching bands and trucks with our beloved players.

My highlights were seeing Big Ben, as he video taped the crowd and waved at us, James Harrison, Chris Kemoeatu #68 and Our MVP Holmes....but the BEST part was Polamalu....not only was he shaking hands, waving and getting everyone going (unfortunately with his back to us the whole time!!! pout!) he made the truck stop at the intersection not far from us....gave a 1, 2, 3 with his fingers and dove into the crowd to crowd surf!!! I wish I had been on top of the parking garage for that photo opp! Too funny.

After the parade we went and ate lunch at Jason's work to warm up and rest our feet, then off to the downtown library for a couple of hours of looking for books (and knitting for me). Then back to get the man from work, across the bridge to the parking lot and a quick and easy (by rush hour standards) ride home. A wonderful day of family fun and togetherness, even if our feet felt like ice cubes. Here are a couple good shots we got. I will post more later. WE LOVE YOU STEELERS!

#68 Chris Kemoeatu

Big Ben and the Mayor

Steelers Win the SuperBowl!!!

2009-02-03T07:00:00.001-05:00

I had tears in my eyes as the beautiful and talented Jennifer Hudson sang the National Anthem. Her clear tones and gorgeous high notes were an honor to have as the opening of the SuperBowl. I know how difficult it must have been to be there without her dear family. I felt blessed to hear her sing something so precious and dear to our country and Super Bowl tradition. She was completely amazing from head to toe.

By now you know the Steelers won. The kids want to go to the parade when they have it. I guess it depends on where, when and how cold it will be. It was an amazing game with all the wonderful players stepping up their game. Of course we will never forget the 100 yard dash performed by #92, James Harrison! We couldn't hear the TV we were all cheering so loudly.

What about Santonio Holmes, #10, and his amazing ballet pointe catch? Not to mention all the other solid catches from Big Ben he snatched. He truly deserved the MVP of the SuperBowl. Ben Proved he was over his Super Bowl jitters and did a great job leading the team on the field. We know that without all the other wonderful players a 6th win wouldn't have been possible. So even though 3 seemed to have stolen the spotlight, don't worry we love all of you collectively and appreciate your hard work and dedication

So Pittsburgh turns 250 years old and the Steelers put the icing and candles on top of the cake. Thank you team for your hard work and turning what could have been a loss into an amazing 6th Super Bowl win. Although I am a transplant and not a PA or Pittsburgh native, I have always loved the Steelers. To actually be living here when they win their 6th....listening to the hoots, hollars, honking and more outside when the game was over...PRICELESS. So thank you again my dear Steelers. You worked hard and didn't stop playing till it was over.

Bon Scrapatite Designs

2009-02-01T07:00:00.004-05:00

My dear friend Linda from Bon Scrapatit Designs will be featured on my blog this week. She has such GORGEOUS kits! I love the new Valentine's kit called "Love Me Tender". Here is my first layout from this set.

If you go to Snowsmoon Designs you can find a lovely free Quick Page made from Bon Scrapatit's Love Me Tender set. Be sure to leave them all lots of love!

Super Steelers!

2009-01-31T22:02:00.004-05:00

It's coming...the superbowl....it is almost here. Pittsburgh can feel the excitement from Florida, too bad we aren't getting the warmth too... Here is the first paper. I have gotten a bit behind but I plan to have more for after the game.

Download your Pigskin paper here:
Pigskin

Snow is here!

2009-01-29T11:28:00.005-05:00

We have had snow for over a week now! I can't believe it. We had a snow day yesterday as it was a wet icy snow. Great packing snow. Today it is lightly snowing and looks so pretty. I know that other places have a ton of snow. Ours isn't bad. We have some icing on the wires though. Not as bad as most of the midwest though. I have heard it has been deluged with snow and ice.

Here at our house we are getting ready for the Super Bowl. We aren't big sports people, but we love our Steelers and are so excited to be here when they go to the bowl!

So to get you all ready for some STEELERS FOOTBALL, I have a couple freebies. I have more coming so stay tuned for papers and maybe some elements. For now here is what I have.

AND

Get your file downloaded here:

Steelers Word Art

7:00 AM????

2009-01-28T07:00:00.004-05:00

You don't think I am really up at 7:00 AM do you? Not if I can help it! LOL I am not an early morning person. I *can* get up early when needed, but I have always much preferred afternoons and evenings to early mornings. Guess I'd be a good vampire!

Speaking of Vampires, have you all read Twilight??? I was hesitant. I wasn't sure I would like it, not a romance reader....but this book has bite! I quite enjoyed it and my son and I went on a mom son date to see the movie before it left the big theater here.

I really enjoyed the movie, as movies go. It is difficult to take a well written book such as Twilight and turn it into a movie. Think Harry Potter Order of the Phoenix....not even close! However, Twilight has a brilliant cast and did a fair job of sticking to the story line without being exactly like the book and therefore a 4 hr movie. LOL

Still it was quality Mother/son time. We enjoy our "date" time. He was a perfect gentleman too, got my car door for me and everything. This surprised me a little, because it is usually his father that does that. :)

So here is a sky photo, after the sun has left our view...a photo that leads to Twilight....

365 day challenge

2009-01-27T07:00:00.003-05:00

Have you seen the Becky Higgins 365 day challenge? I hadn't until I went to WeScrap for a tech class and there were these beautiful and funky layouts using something that looked like baseball card holders. So I went and investigated.

I LOVED the idea so much I used a binder given to me by Major Tigger Scraps and had my hubby pick up some card holders from Walmart of all places. (Didn't know they carried them, thought I would have to go to a hobby shop). I have a mix of digital and regular papers in it right now and am working to get all the days for this month together.

I decided to make it a family album, so the first week after New Year's is all photos my dd took herself. I will have her write little journaling to explain why she took pictures of what she did. If any of you are interested, I made cards for the cover page that I am giving away free. They were so much fun to make!

Project 365 printable Digi-Cards

Kindred Spirits

2009-01-26T07:00:00.003-05:00

We all have met people we just click with. People we feel connected with as soon as we meet. My DH and I have that connection. You would have thought we had known each other for years if you had heard us during the bus ride home when we met. Yes, we met on a city bus... I am sure we all have at least one person in our lives that is like that.

My ds has a dear friend that is a kindred spirit. They had so much in common when they met from books they like to read to movies to watch. Moving so far away we weren't sure they would ever see each other again. Thankfully there are cell phones and email to keep in touch.

A few months ago we got a phone call that his friend's family were going to a baby shower not too far away and they would like to plan a stop over. He and his friend were up talking most of the evening. It was wonderful. I used the add-on setDeanna Patterson's scrapkit Kindred Spirits for this layout. The original kit is on clearance at her boutique for $2!!! Quite a steal.

I also used a free action by Scrappy Pony called Lighten and Brighten to brighten up the photos in B&W. I like how they turned out.

Free Heart Template

2009-01-25T07:00:00.002-05:00

Major Tigger has done it again! She has created some funky cool Valentine's Day items and you simply MUST go and get them. She sent me her heart template and I turned it into a .psd file for all you Photoshop users out there.

You can download the PS version here:
Heart Template

If you need it for Paintshop Pro, check out the website here:
Major Tigger Scraps

Enjoy!

One more Fab Quick Page

2009-01-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

This is another Quick page from Deanna Patterson's Cutesy Kind of Love:

My dd and our dear friend's (Major Tigger) dd showing off the handwarmers I made them. They look so happy.

Cutesy Friends

2009-01-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

My daughter after a play date with her dance class friend. They have such girly fun together. The kit is Cutesy Kind of Love by Deanna Patterson, Shabby Scrap Design.

And this one is using a Quick Page from the set:

A Cutesy Kind of Love

2009-01-22T07:00:00.001-05:00

We took my dd to the Build a Bear Workshop for her Christmas present. She wanted a stuffed friend for her BABW Bear, Kaylee. She came home with this adorable girly bunny named Sunflower. This kit can do anything from Valentine's and love to baby girls and wedding showers. I really love the elements Deanna Patterson has created for the set. I am working on cards for my 365 day project too. Lovely.

Proud to Present: Deanna Patterson of Shabby Scrap Designs

2009-01-21T07:00:00.004-05:00

I love Deanna's work and have the privilege of working on her Creative Team. This week I want to feature her newest kit designs on my blog through layouts I have done this week. The Valentine's set is called A Cutesy Kind of Love and can be found at her website Shabby Scrap Designs.

Here is the first layout:

Inchies everywhere

2009-01-20T07:00:00.001-05:00

I just love these! The sheet I gave you yesterday can be printed out, painted, roughed up, grunged, and used for collages. I thought I would give you a close up of one of my favorites.

Also, the tags can be printed with your wording on them. Pretty cool. I have a square punch from Creative Memories that works perfectly for punching out these inchies from the paper. I hope you will try them out. Give me a few more days and you will have other items to play with.

I found out that the link didn't work, so I am adding the working link for the inchies here! Enjoy

Zoo Inchies

GO STEELERS!!!!

2009-01-19T17:55:00.006-05:00

If the whole team plays for the Super Bowl the way Troy Polamalu played last night for the AFC Championship we should have no problems winning a 6th Super Bowl. I could have kissed him when just seconds after I turned to my family and said, " What we need right now is an interception" and as if he heard me the big defender JUMPED into the air, caught the ball, and ran it for a touch down with our entire family jumping and screaming the entire run! It was so beautiful! Don't get me wrong, I love our entire team, but last night he stole our hearts, and the ball, and had us hooked! Not only did he intercept for a touchdown, NO, he pulled off 3 interceptions and made the most PERFECT tackles I have ever seen. Just beautiful! So here is my tribute to Polamalu -- AFC Champ, Super Bowl Bound!!!!

Congrats to the entire Pittsburgh team! Looking forward to the Bowl! In fact, I am working on some Steelers papers for anyone interested. Keep your eye out for them.

Inchies!

2009-01-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

These are later than I wanted them to be and I apologize. I kind of had a bit of a hosptial stay and it put me behind... *sigh* I am fine. They have no idea what the deal is, of course. But they wanted me to stay for observation. My heart is perfectly fine, strong and working....something else is causing issues with my blood pressure. They said it went up and down all night which is odd. Anywhoo, enough about me....here is something fun! Zoo and Aquarium Inchies!!! The first half of the sheet I played with the pics a little. The second half is normal photos with fun tags added. I hope you like them. I am working on some bright, glowing goofy inches....so look back for those soon.

Download your Zoo Inchies here: Zoo Inchies

Major Slump

2009-01-07T18:08:00.002-05:00

I have been in a Major slump ever since November. My eldest turned 13....3Scrapateers was closing, then not closing....my computer has been giving me issues and haven't had money to get it put back together again. I haven't felt like scrapping or doing anything arty...

Enter Major Tigger Scraps and New Years. We talked, crafted, laughed and got me back on track. Pretty exciting. I have been doing collages here with my dd....I have been thinking a lot about ease of use for things like ATCs and mini albums. So I am working on some new things for you. Have you all heard of Inchies? I am working on some cool sheets FULL of inches to be used in your altered art and collage projects....or scrapbooking endeavors.

It looks like I may have my computer fixed by the end of January....so hang in there if I am sporadic in blogging. I have cool things in the works. Thanks to MTS for getting me going again.

Special Gift for you all!

2008-12-08T14:15:00.002-05:00

MajorTigger Scraps and SuperMom (that's me!) are excited about Christmas! She has been designing some amazing Christmas pages and elements. I have a freebie for you from her. I have saved it as a layered .psd file. She will have it on her blog as PSP file. This is a GREAT template for funky fun paper pieced trees! Below you will find the template for Photoshop users. Be sure to bounce over to Major Tigger's blog and snatch up the rest of the goodies!!!!

Here is a preview:

Tree Template