Memories to Last a lifetime

{ I ThInK i DiD oKaY....}

2012-01-16T07:29:00.002-06:00

I'm taking an online photography class at Big Picture Scrapbooking with Elisha Snow called "Get Great Photos With Any Camera." I decided since I just have a slightly advanced point and shoot and no hope of adding an SLR to my home any time in the near future, I would make the best of what I already owned. I must say I am pleased with how my little composition photo shoot went with Bryn and her friend Mya. We started out at the City Park, moved on to my mother-in-law's, and ended up downtown. The next few were taken at my mother-in-law's.

Bryn and Mya looking serious in front of the old barn.

Pretty girls sitting on the ground. Love the from above angle.

Here they are straight on. I had to lay on the ground too.

Mya striking a pose by the old fence around the pasture.

The next few are from downtown.

Bryn on the fire escape.Love the evening light on her hair. Her eyes just pop here! Love, love, love this one!

Mya in front of an old turquoise wall. The colors and lines here are awesome.

Another fire escape shot. There were lots more good ones. I am so happy with the tips I have gotten already and can't wait for the next assignment this week. So much fun! Oh, and a really funny sidenote to this shoot. They had been laying around in their pj's all day when I asked if they would help me out with my assignment. They said only if they didn't have to bath---OK. Next, thing I know they are putting on make up, fixing greasy hair, and worrying about their outfits,HUH?!?!!? Go figure, nasty but still gotta do makeup and outfits. I don't get it but pics are still good!

{ YES, It's Been A Looonnnnggggg Time}

2011-12-14T10:16:00.006-06:00

Life just gets so busy that all my crafty and bloggy time has disappeared! I haven't done much ( or any) of these in the past year. After looking back through some of my albums, I have made a decision to put forth the effort to make time for the memory keeping! I miss being crafty and I really miss all of those things I didn't capture last year!

Currently, I am working on my December Daily album! I am loving this. I did one in 2009 and started one in 2010 ( No! It isn't finished!) Once I get my camera back up and working, I will take a few photos of it and post them here. And if that wasn't enough memory keeping for me, I orderd the Becky Higgins Clementine Project Life Core Kit. I am sooo looking forward to this. I am going to take Ali's advice and keep it out and ready to work on easily. I have just the place picked out. I will also set up a small camera printer there along with a few essential items to make it much easier. I think this may be the key! Contemplating combining the "One Little Word" project into Project Life. I have been wanting to do it for a few years. By incorporating it, I think it will be doable for me. Wish me luck!

And now for a few (low quality iphone) pics from our life as of late......

1. Making smores by the fire on a cold Saturday night.....

2. A real winner at our house, a message from Santa via Portable North Pole. ( Sean may be 23, but he will always believe in Santa.) It was pure joy to watch his face as he viewed his personal message from Santa!

3. Ryan is home for semester break. He is growing up and it is nice to enjoy some time with him.

CaN yOu BeLiEvE iT?

2011-02-01T10:44:00.003-06:00

I finally got a layout done, photographed, and I am blogging about it!!! Not to mention I misted on the layout! Amazing that I got all this done isn't it? It has been very busy here. I seem to never have time to indulge in my hobby. So what changed, you ask? Sean has been home sick, I caught up on housework, and I am not in my classroom while I am home with him. I could get used to this!!

Enough about all of that! Here is my layout I wanted to share.

I absolutely love it! I used the current sketch from Sketchy Thursdays. It caught my eye as I was wandering around blog land! So, what else---I decided to play along! The products are all from Studio Calico kits with the majority being from On the Easel.

Well, on to change out a load of clothes in the never ending battle! Happy Tuesday to ya!

{MeRry ChRiStMaS}

2010-12-25T08:23:00.002-06:00

Wishing you the peace and joy of the season. Happy birthday Jesus!

My Layout is in October's Scrapstreet

2010-10-02T07:56:00.002-05:00

I was thrilled to have my layout published in this month's Scrapstreet Magazine. I was contacted by Nicole when she saw the layout in The Nook's gallery. She asked to use it and I was thrilled to let her! It was a layout completed with one of the Fabulous Simply Obsessed kits! There is lots of inspiration to be had over at Scrapstreet so make sure you check out everything. You can get a look at my layout HERE . Hope your weekend is Fabulous!!!

It's Been A Loonnnggg Time....

2010-09-25T08:24:00.006-05:00

since I have blogged! It has gotten so busy here since school has started. I miss blogging. I also haven't had a chance to scrap since mid August and I miss it terribly. It won't be happening again this weekend as it is Sugarcane Festival and we have many plans not to mention all the catching up from a full week of school with after school activities. Uggghhh... when is Thanksgiving break going to get here?

I have a few photos from Bryn's 10 th birthday party to share. We took Bryn and four friends to our camp on Vermillion Bay for a weekend of fun! They had a blast swimming, fishing, crabbing, boat riding, and generally just keeping us up to all hours of the night! What do you expect with a bunch of 10 year old girls celebrating! I really enjoyed them all though. They are growing up and are so much fun to visit with.I am a lucky mom to have such a wonderful daughter and her sweet set of girlfriends! Take a look at these pics:

{Happy Third Birthday Simply Obsessed}

2010-08-12T05:56:00.002-05:00

Simply Obsessed is 3! In honor of our third birthday we are holding a blog hop. It includes our fabulous DT as well as some of our talented members. I hope you will get the chance to hop along with us. You should have come here from the SIMPLY OBSESSESD blog, if you didn't go HERE to start. Don't forget our Hop will wrap up in the Scrap That Vacation Crop hosted this weekend by our design team member Jenny! Our last crop was lots of fun and this one is sure to be also. Here is a card created with the SO August kit in honor of our birthday. I LOVED this kit and I think there are a few left so if you don't have your's stop by the shop and snap it up!

Your next stop along the way is RONDA"S BLOG. Happy Hopping and see you at the crop!

{MUDSLIDING}

2010-08-06T11:14:00.004-05:00

is how little girls entertain themselves while mom/aunt is away at work and their teenage sister/cousin is in charge! Aren't they adorable? YUCK!! Bryn is visiting her cousin Jansen in Baton Rouge for a few days before school starts. They can get into some things when they are together.

I miss her and she has only been gone a day.

{August Sketch Challenge at SO}

2010-08-02T13:17:00.003-05:00

Good Monday Afternoon to You! I have a layout to share based on a sketch I did for the sketch challenge over at Simply Obsessed. Take a look at my layout "Pure Joy"

I used the fabulous August Kit from Simply Obsessed and my very own sketch which you can check out HERE. This photo is of my daughter enjoying the waves on the beach. The look on her face fits the title perfectly! I hope you will stop by SO and take a look at the sketch and maybe even give it a try. If you do be sure to link it up to this thread in the forum! Enjoy the rest of your day and stay cool!

Join In!!

2010-08-01T12:08:00.000-05:00

Simply Obsessed is turning 3 and to celebrate we are having a blog hop! We would like to get lots of people to sign up to participate in the hop. Check out all the details at the SO Forum! Deadline to sign up is August 9! Hope to be hopping with you!!

{Escape}

2010-07-28T05:54:00.003-05:00

Good Morning All! Just wanted to share a layout with you. THis one was completed for the SO crop this last weekend. It was my example for the summer hobby challenge. I used lots of American Crafts here! It is a mix of a few different lines and I adore the way it all came together! Take a peek at "ESCAPE"

It has been getting busy around here with school getting ready to take off in a few weeks. I have been in my classroom working a few times and always have something at home to work on. I am getting excited to welcome my new group and get back to the routine. But, at the same time I am sad to leave summer behind. I love having more unrushed time with my sweet children! Have a wonderful day and I will be back soon to share my last reveal as part of The Scrappiest design team:( It is time for a new group to share their scrappy creations!

This May Be the Queen of Kits!!

2010-07-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

The colors in this kit are to die for!! I kid you not!! They are absolutely beautiful! If you haven't purchased a kit yet, I think you need to hop on over to the store and take care of that!
Here is what I came up with:
Up first is a layout I absolutely adore. It is a photo of my daughter and I. The journaling talks about how God has blessed me with the privilege of raising such a wonderful girl! She is definitely "The Queen of my Heart"

I used a sketch by Frances Sylvia for this one because well- I liked it! I wanted to showcase the cute little silver crown that came in the kit so I gave it a special place accenting my title. The cute flower is nothing more than one of the punch-0ut journaling tags that I added some adhesive to the back and went around it with the ribbon pleats. Finally, I layered three cork buttons on top and there you have it!

Up next is a layout about my son, Kyle. On vacation I was sitting on the beach watching him in the surf. I noticed how much of a man he has grown into. I grabbed the camera and snapped some photos (not something he stops for often!). The journaling talks about how fast he has grown and how it just hit me here on the beach that he is now a man. I am one proud mamma---

This is a very straightforward layout with lots of layering--papers, journaling tags, ribbon pleats. The journaling tag is the packaging from the Prima pearls in the kit. It was just the size I was needing. I decided to use the bling frame to call attention to the photo where he faces forward.

Okay, you know me, I love the vintage feel of this one! I wasn't sure about the Yukon Gold cardstock, but it was the crowning touch here. The photo was taken on vacation in Panama City Beach, Florida in June. There were nine of us on the trip (the one missing is our photographer, Kyle). The journaling discusses the number present and how I dearly missed my husband and other two sons who didn't make the trip with us. We always do vacation my my brother-in-law and his family and it just wasn't the same with half of mine missing.
So here is "9"

The one thing in this layout to talk about are those nice big flowers. Boy did they give me a hard time! I used the clear border strips and the creamy yellow side of one of the Queen Bee papers to make strips to fan-fold. Because the border strips are kind of plasticy it was a battle. But I did get it done with lots of glue dots!!

Lastly, is this layout---I am going to be honest---I just don't like! But, I am going to share it anyway (I thought about just keeping it to myself!!) However, even if the photos are not great they capture my third son who is having MAJOR high school growing pains enjoying himself while acting silly! I so rarely see this happy side of him anymore. It makes me so sad to know how unhappy he seems most of the time. So, these rare moments are so special.
Here is "A Glimpse"

Let me explain THE OUTFIT! He was going to ride the four-wheeler and it was cold. After I shot these he even put a pair of jeans over the warm-ups. We just don't have clothes for really cold weather here in tropical South Louisiana! Here I made a few little flowers from the left over ribbon pleats, layered up some of the items from the kit here and there. Oh yes, the cute little fleur de lis at the top right was cut from the border strips. Even If it isn't my favorite, it holds some special meaning!

Okay, not only do I have these four layouts, I also have layout I used for my Sketch Challenge that will go up August 1. i LOVE it too! Then, there is a card I will share later! AND I still have enough to do a few more cards and could probably squeeze out another layout! This kit just keeps giving! One more bit of advise, the bittersweet and yukon gold cardstock are a must have! They can be purchased as an add-on. Don't miss out on yours and be sure to join us for the "Just Beachy" crop over in the forum. Pre-crop is underway and we really get rolling on Friday! Hope to see you there, Susan

Flea Market Style Giveaway!

2010-07-21T15:47:00.002-05:00

Check out this giveaway:

Go here to leave a comment for a chance to win:

Too Fast

2010-07-20T06:58:00.003-05:00

Why is it that it seems like only a short time ago that he was my sweet boy? In a blink he has become a man! I am proud of him and somewhat in awe of privilege of being his mother!
This layout for the latest sketch at The Scrappiest talks about how he has grownup too fast. Take a look:

The photo of Kyle and my niece, Skyler, was taken on our recent trip to Florida. They are 2 months apart. Both are sweet kids that I am proud of. Well, remember to stop by The Scrappiest and take part so that you are eligible to win the July prize! Don't forget to join us for the "Just Beachy" crop at SO. Pre-crop is underway and the official start is Friday! See you there!

Just Beachy Pre-Crop Has Begun!!

2010-07-19T07:02:00.003-05:00

The pre-crop at Simply Obsessed is underway! You can check it out and join in HERE. There are few challenges and games to start on with the official crop beginning Friday, July 23 and ending midnight July 25. Hope you can join us for some beachy fun!

Scrappy Saturday

2010-07-17T16:08:00.005-05:00

Happy Saturday to all of you! I have been scrapping away the last few days using up some American Crafts stash! Love this stuff. It is a quiet weekend here with Bryn at a friends and the boys out doing their own things (whatever teenage boys do!) Carlyle spent most of the day fishing! So, I was doing my scrappy thing!!
Here are some scrappy goodies:
"Bliss"

Bryn and Jansen on the beach in Panama City Beach, FLorida. Love the angle of this photo as I catch the two of them enjoying the beach. It truly is bliss to be on this white sand and turquoise water.

Now a card-----

I love the soft colors and layering here. So pretty!

Finally, I did this frame with some photos of Bryn and me. Lovin all the Dear Lizzy, it went perfectly with the colors in the pics. These are various shots from the last few months. Best of all this was an old brown frame that I put a white washed type finish on.

Hope you enjoyed my scrappy sharing and I am wishing all of you a great weekend. See you on Monday with a reveal for The Scrappiest and the beginning of the "Just Beachy" crop I am hosting over at SImply Obsessed! I hope you will join us for lots of scrappy fun!

Sweet Summertime!

2010-07-12T05:53:00.006-05:00

Summertime is always busy, but I wouldn't trade it for anything! SInce last blogging we have been on vacation to Panama City Beach, Florida. It was beautiful and we had a great time. I have also been working on some projects around the house that I only seem to have time for in the summer. Painting has taken over here! I have painted Bryn's room a lovely creamy yellow called Honey Butter from Behr. It is just right! My room was a challenge! The first color Summer Sorbet from Valspar was too Beachy Blue for what I was after, so after painting two coats on a wall I started over! This time I went with Tradewind by Sherwin Williams. It appeared to be a nice grey blue, but alas in the light in my room it was BABY BLUE!!! Well, at this point I am getting frustrated. You know when you have a image in your head and you just can't recreate it!! Next move was to take the tradewind back to SW and discuss what was happening in the room and the look I was after. The solution---mix the tradewind to as close to Quitetude as we could manage. It is PERFECT! It is not quite Quitetude,but better! The room is slowly coming together. I will share pics once it is.

Now for a few reveals. First up is the July Simply Obsessed Kit and Sketch Inspiration sketch #132. So is sponsoring the prize this week over there and it is none other than the sold out July Kit. So if you want to win it get over to SKETCH INSPIRATION and play along. Here is what I came up with using the sketch and kit:

"BEACH GIRLS"

AND since it is Monday, it is time for another reveal at THE SCRAPPIEST! This sketch was great as all of Liz's sketches seem to be. I got to use a few more vacation pictures and these are priceless! My son Kyle is usually very reserved, so getting these shots was a treat. He and his cousin Skyler are acting silly while shopping. I love getting a glimpse of this side of his personality! Aren't these shots funny?
"SINCE WHEN"

This was completed using the June Studio Calico kit Partly Sunny.
One last thought to share with you that I read recently that has put things into perspective for me, "The beauty is in the imperfections." I love this quote because it is so true. Life isn't perfect, but there is beauty in all of it! Makes me appreciate all the things in my life!

Hope you are having a great week and look forward to sharing some finished bedroom pictures soon!

You Make Me Happy!

2010-06-28T13:00:00.002-05:00

Time for another reveal at THE SCRAPPIEST! And this lovely Lily Bee paper makes me happy. This was completed using my July Simply Obsessed kit which is sold out. However if you get over to the message board before Tuesday and tell Heather you would like one, she will order it. HERE is the thread.

This layout features my Mom waiting for Bryn and Cameron at the Mini golf course in Hot Springs. I decided to use the sketch for an 8 1/2 x 11 layout. Take a look at "You Make Me Happy"

I really love this layout!! It is hard to see here, but there is a lot of dimension. The paper strips are popped up as is the circle and photos. The only thing that lays flat on the page is the rub-on title and the journaling.

Make sure you head over to The Scrappiest and take a look at Liz's great sketch along with the other DT layouts. Since, I am gone to Florida and this is a scheduled post I haven't seen them yet, but I know they will be inspiring! See you when I get back from the sun and sand!

Susan's "Hello Sunshine" Reveal

2010-06-22T17:09:00.006-05:00

Love, love, love this kit! It is sold out, but Heather will order some more if you let her know you want it. AND YOU DO WANT IT!! HERE is the thread in the message board so you can put your name on the list. This kit is very versatile. I have completed these three layouts and have 2 more in the works. One is even a Christmas layout! Well, on with the creative stuff!

"Chloe"

This is our West Highland Terrier, Chloe. She is for once clean (she doesn't know she is suppose to be a fancy dog! She loves nothing more than to chase critters, swim in the bayou, and generally just get filthy!) She is also constantly trying to keep everyone in line as she sees fit no matter if it is human or another canine. Can you say bossy! Everything on the layout is in the kit except the ribbon and twine. Those are from my stash. I used MM Blue Lagoon Paint and a paint called Fresh Foliage to paint the banners. The letters are the yellow ones from the kit. I just peeled off the top layer because yellow did not suit the layout. The border was cut from one of the MME papers. Love that Lilly Bee Rub-on. It was just perfect to relate our story about living with Chloe! I really love the colors here!

"Hello Sunshine"

Now, I ask you who could resist using this big rub-on as a title? Not me! I used lots of small pics and rub-ons here. I even made the red envelope from the kit card stock that holds my journaling tag. I punched the confetti stars and sprinkled them around with the rhinestones from the kit! Love this one too! My daughter, Bryn, and my nephew, Cameron, are having a blast shooting each other with water in the bumper boats. They had a blast while we were in Hot Springs.

"Thoughts on You"

Here they are again. This time playing put-put golf. Funny!!! This one includes my thoughts about the two of them as a pair. I hand cut the paisley shape and popped it up. I used a rub-0n on a punched scalloped circle and adhered it to the paisley. Again the ribbons and twine are from my stash. Hope you get your hands on this awesome kit. I can't wait to get back to my other two layouts! have a great day!

Cast the Net

2010-06-20T15:19:00.004-05:00

Well it is Monday and that means it is time for another sketch reveal at The Scrappiest! I really enjoyed using this one. I decided to use 3 photos instead of 2 because they all went together and I wanted the full effect of the sequence. Take a look at what I came up with.

I used my June Studio Calico kit for this one. Love it! Remember you can check out the sketch and other DT inspiration HERE. Create your layout based on it and be eligible for the monthly prize. Hope you have a great day!

Time for a Crop at Simply Obsessed!

2010-06-18T08:21:00.005-05:00

Hope you will join us HERE for all the fun and games! Have a great day!

Layout for #69 at The Scrappiest

2010-06-14T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday! Just a quick post to share my layout for the latest sketch at The Scrappiest. I took a few liberties with this one! I sort of slid the whole thing over to the left side of the page! Just goes to show you a sketch is a jumping off point, a way to get your creative juices flowing!! Take a look at "In the Playhouse"-

This one uses one of my past Studio Calico kits ( can't seem to remember which one just now! Just goes to show you that I need to use up some stash!!) And yes this is another photo from the playhouse tea party. We really had a nice time at this and plan to do it again this summer. I really love the people I work with and it is so nice that our children can enjoy each other while we visit outside the workplace! Yes, I work with some really awesome people! Anyway, go check out the sketch HERE . Enjoy your week!!

Lovin Summer!

2010-06-07T05:51:00.002-05:00

I am able to get so much done around the house that I have not had the time to do during the school year! The back patio is looking great! My next project is painting a few rooms and updating window treatments. We had the opportunity to spend Memorial Day weekend at our camp on Vermillion Bay. We had a nice time enjoying the water and wharf. Speaking of that, my layout for Sketch #68 at The Scrappiest features a picture of Bryn relaxing on the wharf. Take a look: "On the Wharf":

I used one of the kits from Paper Poppy for this one. Liz had one circle on the sketch, but I decided to do a series of 4 layered circles. I laced the green paper with some twine I had laying around. The yellow sunflowers peeking out I just cut free hand from a square of yellow felt. arranged them and voila, a nice pop of color.

Well, I will be out of town for a week or so! Sean, Bryn, and I are joining my parents for a week at Lake Hamilton in Hot Springs. This will be my first RV vacation! Wish me luck because I am a hotel kind of girl!! Be sure to check out the sketch HERE and play along to win that fab prize. You will also want to check out the other DT layouts as they are awesome as always! Have a great week!

Goodie Box WInner Is.........

2010-06-07T05:41:00.002-05:00

Tami said...
I just became a follower Susan-thx for the chance!

JUNE 2, 2010 8:17 AM

Email me your address and I will get the box of goodies out to you! (susan111066@yahoo.com)

Imaginisce June Sketch

2010-06-05T11:21:00.003-05:00

Hope everyone is having a great weekend. Lots of patio and garden work here! I am so ready to get it all in shape since school is out! I thought I would share a little scrappy goodness today. I decided to do the June sketch over at Imaginisce. You can check it out HERE.

This is my take on it "In the Playhouse"

I had fun with this one. Love the gridwork! It was perfect for all of the pics we took at the playhouse tea party! That's all for now! See you Monday with a reveal from The Scrappiest! Don't forget the giveaway post below. i will be drawing a winner on Monday!!

Time to Purge!

2010-06-02T06:42:00.002-05:00

I am feeling overwhelmed by all the extra scrappy product I have laying around, so I decided to fill a flat rate box with scrappy goodness. I am going to send this box to one lucky blog follower! How do you get a chance at free goodies shipped right to your door? Well, become a follower, that is chance 1. If you are already a follower, you are automatically in. Chance 2, blog about it on your blog with a link back here. Chance 3, leave a comment on this post telling me you which of these you have done. If you blogged, leave me a link to the post where you did it. Did I mention this box will have a variety----papers, cardstock, chipboard, alphas, stamps, ribbon, and other embellies. Okay, get your comments and posts in by Sunday, June 6 at midnight and I will randomly draw a winner and post on Monday. Have a great day!

I Am In LoVe!!!!

2010-06-01T21:30:00.004-05:00

With my new blog look! It is simply gorgeous and I have Krisitne Davidson to thank for it! Kristine did a makeover for Frances and when I saw her blog---well----I WANTED IT!!! And since I very well knew I couldn't have Frances' blog I decided to email Kristine and see what she could whip up for me. Now let me tell you, Kristine is one talented and patient lady!! I changed my mind on the background color a number of times until I settled on this glorious turquoise!! Don't ya just love it?? Anyway take a look around, I am in serious love with it! And don't forget to make a stop by Kristine's Blog and check out her other makeovers. Heck, you might decide you need one of your own!!! LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this new look!!!

Happy Memorial Day!

2010-05-31T12:44:00.003-05:00

This day is a day to remember all of the fallen soldiers who have served our country. The phrase "All Gave Some, Some Gave All" comes to mind. I am truly thankful for these men and women who have played a part in keeping our country the great place that it is! In being thankful I also reflect on my own blessings. The country I live in, a wonderful and supportive family, and the beautiful children God gave me the pleasure of raising. The layout I have to share today focuses on how thankful I am to be the mother of my very wonderful daughter, Bryn. Take a look:

I still Can't Believe

I love the soft colors here! It uses sketch #67 from The Scrappiest and the May Studio Calico Kit "Granny's Cupboard." Make sure you stop by The Scrappiest to check out the other design team layouts and the wonderful prize that is up for grabs. Just create your take on the sketch and link it. I can't wait to make my way by your site to see what you create. Remember........

Simply Obsessed June Reveal

2010-05-25T04:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday and ALMOST summer vacation to you! We have just four more days to go here and this teacher can't wait!!! How about some more exciting news? The June Kit from Simply obsessed is just great! I was wondering just how these colors would work for me, but they came together so easily. Here is what I came up with.
First up is a layout featuring the May Magpie Sketch. I saw this sketch and knew I wanted to use it!
"Two of a Kind"

This is my husband and daughter hanging out. They are very much two of a kind! I cut the blue circles out and used them to create a scalloped border.

"Sometimes I Wonder"

This layout features a photo of my father when he was six. i just love working with old photos. I love the color combo going on here. Notice the flower at the top. I just cut a circle from the orange cardstock and cut out the blue diamonds on another paper and used them as the petals. I hand cut the star and journal tag also. i know this will be one of those layouts I treasure.

"And He Says "The Girls Like Me"

This is my first ever 8 1/2 x 11 layout and I really enjoyed working with this size. I see more of these in my future. The photo is of my oldest son Sean at the "Very Special Prom" at his high school. This prom is held for students and past students of the special education classes here. He looked forward to it for a long time and while getting ready he informed me "The Girls Like Me!" Oh boy, what do we have in store for us? The Kraft colored letters are just the Cosmo ones that came in the kit. I just peeled the top layer off because I thought this color better suited my layout. The tiny brown alphas are from my stash. This extra long title required lots of alphas!

"World's Best Dad" Card

Finally. a simple card for Father's Day.

This is a great kit and I loved working with it. Make sure you snap yours up. (GO HERE) Have a wonderful day, Susan

The Scrappiest #66

2010-05-23T06:58:00.003-05:00

Just a quick post to share my layout for Sketch #66 at The Scrappiest. It was another great one and I really enjoyed working with it. Here is my take on it:
"Sweet Fairy"

My little girl dressed for the Ren Fest at her school. Anyway, pop on over there and check it all out and play along for a chance to win! happy Monday to ya!

It's Been Some Time

2010-05-22T19:22:00.002-05:00

Since I posted here. The end of school is very near and I have been super busy. This is just a quick post to share a little scrappy goodness. I did this layout as part of the scrap lift relay challenge at Simply Obsessed. This was so much fun! The best part was the layout picked to start of the lift was one of mine called "Camera Shy" Anyway, Here it is: "Keeping Score"

I will be back Monday with more to share. Have a great weekend!

A ChAlLeNgE & A rEvEaL

2010-05-03T07:18:00.001-05:00

A quick post to share some scrappy goodness. First up is my take on sketch #63 at The Scrappiest. I changed it up a bit to fit some photos I wanted to use. Here is what I came up with:

Stop by The Scrappiest to check out the sketch and DT goodness. Make sure to play along for a chance to win the may prize!

Next is my challenge over at SImply Obsessed. I challenge you to use a song title as the title of your layout. I used "Then" by Brad Paisley. The photo is me back in 1970! (Notice the chair fabric ---YIKES).

I hope you will stop by Simply Obsessed and play along. That's all I have now! Hope your day is great!

ReVeAl TiMe

2010-04-25T08:06:00.007-05:00

It is that time again at both Simply Obsessed and The Scrappiest. Time for the May Kit Layouts by the design team at SO and time for the design team reveals for Liz's sketch at The Scrappiest.
First up is my reveal for the Simply Obsessed May Kit featuring Crate Paper Pink Plum. There are some really beautiful colors in this one browns, pinks,and oranges. They were perfect for some Easter Hunt photos.
THis layout is a hoot! My daughter is the youngest in the bunch of grandchildren and the older kids no longer want to hunt eggs with her. Problem solved, Pappaw stepped up to the plate and made it quite the contest. They were too funny and had a blast. She has the very best Pappaw!
"Ready, Set, Hunt"

Here she is again hunting those eggs. I love this shot from the back as she finds one in the tree in her grandparent's yard. The branches on the bare crepe myrtle add so much to this photo.
"You Are a Delight"

And here is a vintage layout featuring my parents during their senior year in high school. Not a great photo, but you take what you can get when they are this old! THey are on their way to the football banquet at Springhill High School in February 1963! For this one I fussy cut the floral pattern from one of the papers in the kit and layered it over the cardstock. I think I like it!
"Back Then"

Now for the AWESOME sketch over at The Scrappiest! I love this one and will probably use it again soon. I used the Studio Calico Joyland Kit as well as pieces from all three add-ons. I scrapped a photo of Ryan blowing out his candles on his birthday cake. My youngest boy turned 17 on April 20th. I really love the way this one turned out. It is so masculine and has just enough in a simple kind of way!
"Just 17"

Be sure to stop by The Scrappiest and check out this sketch. It is so great that I know you will want to use it. Get it done before the end of the month and link it up HERE and you could win the fab April Paper Poppy Kit Spring Melody. Also, Hop on over HERE to check out the super beautiful May Kit at SImply Obsessed. Join us on the blog May 3 for some DT challenges. I have mine ready to go and it uses the May kit and it may just be my fav of the 4 layouts I have done so far using this kit! Have a great Monday!

Scrappy Sunday

2010-04-25T07:52:00.004-05:00

Happy Sunday to you! It is a beautiful spring day here! I plan on spending some time enjoying it after I move a mountain of clothes! I have a little scrappy goodness to share with you today. Here is my layout based on the April sketch over at Magpie Club. It was created by Julie Bonner and I just loved it. I had the perfect photos of my sweet little boys to scrap using this one. SInce I have been scrapping only a few years and my boys are 21, 19, and 17, I am still catching up on old photos. Anyway, here is my take on it "The 3 of You Are My Favorite THings"

I used the Studio Calico Joyland kit here as well as pieces from all of the add-ons. Be sure to check out Magpie club HERE.

We have had an enjoyable weekend here eating boiled crawfish on Saturday and Sunday nights. We got to enjoy the company of our boys and their friends while we boiled and ate. I love to have them around. I hope your weekend is going as well as mine! I will be back tomorrow with lots of scrappy goodness to share. Have a great day today!

A Little Joyland and The Scrappiest

2010-04-19T11:00:00.000-05:00

That is using the APril kit from Studio Calico "Joyland" and sketch #61 from The Scrappiest. Love it, too!

My daughter happens to be into golf right now and her dad is trying to teach her a little (a little since he doesn't know a whole lot about it himself!). She really seems to love it and is getting much better at it!! Well, just a quick post! Be sure to stop by THe Scrappiest and play along for a chance at Aphra's Awesome kit from the Paper Poppy Kit CO. Have a great day!!

Gettin Sketchy at Simply Obsessed

2010-04-15T05:41:00.003-05:00

Happy Thursday everyone! Hope your week is going well! A little something extra this week-- Ronda has posted a sketch challenge over at the SIMPLY OBSESSED BLOG and it is a beauty! I completed an example layout to go along with it. Here it is:
"Circa 1971"

Ofcourse, this uses the amazing April Kit from SO! It also has some more vintage pics of my brothers and me! Love the way this came out ! The pleated pieces around the circle are small squares of paper I folded, inked, and arranged to look like pleated fabric. Love this effect! Well, I hope you will stop by SO and take a look at the sketch. We would love to have you join in with all the fun at SO. It is a really great place to gain inspiration, not to mention Heather's great kits!! Hope to see you there playing along!

Oh the Joy!

2010-04-11T18:14:00.004-05:00

Good morning everyone! Well, it is Monday and I am back with another reveal for The Scrappiest! And it is another great sketch! FOr this one I opted to use one big photo in place of the 2 smaller ones. I love this one of my husband and daughter working on her golf swing. SO sweet! I decided to use my new kit from Studio Calico "Joyland" It is so yummy! This layout is mostly the main kit with a little from two of the add-ons thrown in( Wacky Shack and Skycoaster). I hate to tell ya that you missed out as all of these are sold out:( ANyway, here is my take on the sketch. It is very linear and simple, but I really love it. I think because it lets the picture do most of the talking!

"Teach Me"

Make sure you get on over to The Scrappiest and take a peek at the sketch as well as all of the inspiration. Then you will want to create your layout and link it up so that you are eligible to win the AWESOME April PAPER POPPY KIT! It is YUMMY! That is all for now, have a great day!!

Layout Challenge at Simply Obsessed

2010-04-07T20:22:00.004-05:00

Happy Thursday! You remember that kit from SO that I am absolutely in love with? Well, I HAD to use it to do my layout challenge over at the SO forum. It went live today. You will remember I said it was versatile and great for scrapping those older photos. I used this as my jump off point for the challenge. Also inspiring me was the scrap lift relay that is going on over in the SO forum. I wrapped all of these ideas into one and came up with the following challenge:
1. Scrap an old photo of yourself or your siblings when you were young.
2. Scrap lift a scrappy someone who is an inspiration to you.
For my layout I used photos of myself at Easter when I was 4 ( One black and white and one color) and I scrap lifted one of my all time fav scrappers, Stephanie Howell. She has such a clean simple style. I also love to read her blog, she has the sweetest personality! Anyway, this is based on a layout she did about her two beautiful little girls.

And here is my layout "Four Years":

I would love to see what you create, so play along and link your take to this thread in the Simply Obsessed forum. I can't wait to see what ya do!!! I will leave you with a quote that our own Coach Beth at SES ends all her emails with: "Have a better than average day!"

Lots to Share

2010-03-28T17:46:00.010-05:00

It's Monday and that means a reveal at The Scrappiest! Also,this Monday I have my reveal for the AWESOME April kit at Simply Obsessed. When i say I LOVE this kit, I mean I REALLY LOVE this kit! I know I will use every last scrap! I received the kit on Saturday and had 4 layouts done by Sunday morning! Anyhow, on with the reveal.
First up my take on sketch #58 at The Scrappiest. I used the sketch pretty much as it was because it fit my photos so well. But you could flip it or shrink it easily. Take a look:
"That Special Bond"

I used my March kit "Quilting Bee" from Studio Calico for this one. A few of the elements are from my stash. I love the wood veneer diecut shapes that were in this kit (circles). I used Spiced Marmalade distress ink to color them orange. i then used some Tea Dye distress ink to tone it down a bit. Supplies used are: AC coffee cardstock, Patterned papers: Studio Calico English, Cosmo Cricket Calico and Measuring up; Sass Cherry Flag banner stickers, Spring house crochet flowers from AC. The alphas were not in the kit and are AC dear lizzy.
Be sure to stop by The SCrappiest and check out the sketch and the other DT inspiration. Play along for a chance to win the March prize, $20 bucks to spend at Scrapbook Stash!!. Liz offers some great prizes and inspiration. So, you can't go wrong!

Now for my layouts with the Simply Obsessed April Kit featuring all that OA Thrift Shop wonderfulness!

It is great to scrap older photos because of the vintage vibe! For my first layout I went way back to when I was 4!!
"Fond Memories"

I chose this photo of my brother and I on the beach in Grand Isle, LA. I blew it up to an 8x10. I wanted it to have lots of impact. The color combo I used here is one of my favorites-yellow, bird's egg blue, and red. It is a combination that pops! I used strips of paper on both sides of the photo. I inked everything with Tim Holtz Tea Dye distress ink. I also tucked a piece of the blue paper that I cut around the shapes to resemble scallops under the strips on the left side. I used the journal stickers off of the sticker add-on sheet down the bottom left side of the photo. For the cluster at the bottom right I layered a MME ticket, stickers from the OA sheet, a piece of the blue paper that I cut the entire floral piece from, a JB button threaded with the red twine and a butterfly punched from the red cardstock in the add-on. I added the title with the OA sticker letters at the top left along with another sticker and a butterfly.

For the second layout I have scrapped my sweet little girl when she was 3 at the beach in Gulf Shores, AL.
"You"

This one uses kraft cardstock as the base. I punched a few scalloped circles here and there and backed them with different OA papers. I created the scalloped edging with black cardstock and my apron lace punch. The cluster at the bottom left of the photo features one of the alphabet cards. To it I added a few stickers from the OA words sheet, red twine, some of the flowers, a JB button, and one of the K&Co frames that I cut apart and used around the edge of the alpha card. The title is from the flocked black add on sheet. I added a few stars from the sticker sheet just plopped down randomly. I drew lines and journaled directly on them. The blue cardstock that backs the photo helps it to pop off of the page.

Okay, for layout #3 I went back to my wedding day. This is me and my little cousin, Haley, before the start of the ceremony. "Little Haley" now has two children of her own, YIKES!
"Almost Time"

I used the OA pattern paper as a background here. Love this stuff!I layered three different papers in the center along with the photo. I also used the blue border sticker from the add-on sheet along with the floral one at the bottom. Cluster #1 at the bottom left of the photo used stickers form OA sheet, green twine, the GCD studios acetate lady, a ticket, decorative pins, a flower I made from the word paper, and a few initials. Cluster 2-The title with the black flocked letters, a round sticker from the add-on, a K&Co frame, and a piece of kraft left over from the "You" layout that I inked with faded denim distress ink. Cluster #3-top left-- a small piece of the blue border sticker, another piece of leftover kraft, and a word sticker.

Okay layout # 4 goes back to 1971. I love these photos with my two brothers.
"The Way We Were"
The background is green cardstock from the add-on. A wide strip of floral paper, a strip I used my large scallop punch on were placed slightly off-center. I matted the photos on black, added a pleated ribbon I used some of the blue stripe paper to make.Also contains some border stickers, a ticket.flowers, pins, and cut-outs from one of the papers. i used the small word stickers down the right side of the wide floral paper. My favorite element on this one is the kraft envelope. I attached it to the back with a glue runner and let the flap come over to the front. Inside is a journal card with all of my nostalgic memories about these pics! I used a JB button as the other side of the closure since the other is adhered to the back of the layout. I also inserted one of the shapes I cut from the paper. The title used ledger stickers and the multi-colored alphas that came in the kit.

See what I mean---VERSATILE! And wait until you see how completely different the other layouts I have in the works are! I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this kit! I hope you were able to get yours because they are now sold out!! ( Just in Heather has ordered a few more kits, so go HERE quick and get yours!)I hope I inspired you and I will be back with more because I intend to use this kit until there is not one scrap left, LOL!! Have a great Monday, Susan

Time for #57

2010-03-21T15:17:00.004-05:00

at The Scrappiest. Another great sketch to help get your mojo in gear! Here is my take on the sketch. I flipped and used 1 4x6 photo instead of the two smaller ones. Take a look:

If you get a chance drop by The Scrappiest and have a look at the sketch and the other design team inspiration. Play along and you could be a winner!

Scrappy Sunday

2010-03-21T15:06:00.003-05:00

Hope everyone is having a great day! I have had a little scrappy time today and got to play along with the crop challenges at Simply Obsessed. I have done only 1 layout, but I combined challenge #1 (Bling swirl, glitter or stickles, and a shiny embellie) with challenge #3 ( use 3 butterflies). I used a picture of Bryn from last May after Kyle's high school graduation. To say the least she wasn't in a picture mood!! Take a look:

Supplies used: Patterned paper-Jenni Bowlin, Sassafrass, American Crafts; Cardstock-Bazzill; orange butterfly-Jenni Bowlin; metal button-Making memories; Label Sticker-Two Girlz Stuff; bling swirl-Prima; rhinestones-Little Yellow Bicycle; Alphas-American Crafts; Ink-Tim Holtz Distress.
If you haven't joined in you have until Monday at midnight to get your layouts in. Hope you will join us.

Swing into Spring!

2010-03-20T09:52:00.003-05:00

at the Simply Obsessed Mini crop this weekend! Come join us for some inspiration and fun! While you are there you can order up the great April kit that went up for sale just this morning. It is packed full of October Afternoon Thrift Shop and it is AWESOME!!!! Not to mention the great add-ons which I got all of! Check out the main kit:

So head on over to Simply Obsessed and join in the crop in the forum! Check out the kit and get yours while it is still in stock ( I think this one is going to sell out fast).

Taking the Plunge!

2010-03-15T11:55:00.001-05:00

Well, Bryn cut most of her beautiful long hair off Friday. It was sad for me! One lady at the salon told her she had "Pantene Hair" like the girls in the Pantene commercial and that she should not cut it. Bryn had already made up her mind though. She kept telling me it is almost summer and I want it shorter. I am secretly hoping that she lets it grow back. A little brain washing may be in order here, heehee!
It is Monday and that means another sketch is up at The Scrappiest. I chose to use a before pic of Bryn with long hair and an after pic with the shorter hair. I flipped the sketch on it's side to better fit the pictures I had. I love the result. Take a look:
"Before and After"

I used strips of patterned paper. I also used some of that awesome wood veneer that came in my March Studio Calico kit. I hope they put some of that stuff in the shop there. It is great!! I did some inking and a little misting though it is hard to see!
( Supplies used: card stock-Bazzill; Patterned paper-Sassafras and Basic Grey; wood veneer diecuts and ribbon-Studio Calico; Rub-on and crocheted flowers-AC Dear Lizzy; Butterflies-Jenni Bowlin; Alphas- cork= Making Memories and yellow=Basic Grey; Bingo Card-Vintage from Paper Poppy March kit; Ink-Tim Holtz distress; Mist-Tattered Angels glimmer; Pen-AC Precision; brown stick pen-Maya Road.
Make sure you stop by The Scrappiest take a look at the inspiration there. If you complete at least one sketch and March and link it up, you are eligible to win the prize. So get your glue out and get busy we can't wait to see what you create!! Have a great day!

A Color Challenge at Simply Obsessed

2010-03-11T06:03:00.006-06:00

Good morning everyone. Is your life crazy busy so you feel like you might just be on one of those hamster exercise wheels?? That is the way I have been feeling lately. However, I do know that I am so lucky to have all I do no matter how hectic it may all seem sometimes. I hope each and every one of you feel as blessed as I do.

One of the things that I feel lucky to have found is my creative outlet in scrapping. It is really so relaxing and important to me. A few days ago I read a post on Stephanie Howell's blog on why she scraps and I couldn't have said it any better. She summed it up perfectly. If you want to read it go here. Stephanie is one of my favorite reads. She is just so real. Thanks Stephanie for inspiring me often! Now for my creative sanity---Scrapping! I have a color challenge up at Simply Obsessed. Here is the combination I chose to use:

I love these colors together ( red, blue, pale yellow, and white)Now for my layout using these colors "On the Pier"

I only used a little of the yellow, but it is there! These are my sweet boys when they were little on vacation in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Love to scrap these old memories! Be sure to stop by Simply Obsessed and play along. Upload your take on this challenge in the gallery there.
Have a wonderful day!!

Buttons

2010-03-10T12:41:00.002-06:00

I found this really great site that has the cutest buttons and things. Oh, and she is having a giveaway, so go check it out! You will be glad you did! Go to Little Red Rocket.
Have a great day!!

The Paper Poppy and The Scrappiest

2010-03-07T11:29:00.004-06:00

Happy Monday to you! I have a little scrappy goodness to share today. It is time for sketch #55 at The Scrappiest and as usual Liz has created another winner. I combined the sketch with my new kit from The Paper Poppy Kit Company. This is a brand new kit company from Aphra Boyler. She is a fellow Louisiana girl who is one super talented lady.Her kit is overflowing with goodness from super paper combos to handmade and vintage goodies. I absolutely love it. She only has a few left so if you want one go here quickly and order up! I can't wait to see what she has in store for April!

Here is my take on #55 using Aphra's awesome kit:

I first misted some kraft card stock with Scarlet Glimmermist. I then layered up some papers and photos of my oldest when he was 2. (Yes, these are some old ones!) I then added the Jenni Bowlin banner stickers as part of the title, some embellies from the kit including that vintage bingo marker. Love it! Overall, I love the way this one turned out!

Make sure to stop by The Scrappiest for the sketch and to check out the other design team inspiration. Play along and complete one of the sketches from March, link it up, and maybe you will win this month's prize! Don't forget to check out the Paper Poppy. You will be glad you did! Have a great day!

Revealing it at Simply Obsessed

2010-03-03T05:52:00.005-06:00

It is time for my first reveal as part of the awesome design team at Simply Obsessed! I am so excited to be a part of Heather's wonderful team not to mention getting to design with her awesome kits! Lucky Me! And the March kit features the LYB Lucky Me line. This line contains the most beautiful colors. I really love the look they can achieve! Anyway on with my reveal.

My first layout "You Dream Big"

I wanted to do a masculine layout featuring my son Kyle. He graduated last year and is doing well with his job, etc. I decided to use an oversized black and white photo of him I took one day after work. I used some of the striped paper under the photo as well as the brown ribbon from the add-on. Over that I layered the little shamrock border sticker. I created a cluster of embellies on the lower right corner of the photo. For the cluster I punched a large circle and a medium scalloped circle from some of the green coordinating paper. I outlined and inked these to help them pop a bit. I used pop dots and layered them with a clear cut clover, I Love You sticker, a threaded button and that adorable little clover. I used rub-ons to create the title "You Dream Big." I also made a little border above the top left corner of the photo using some of the stickers.

Layout #2 "Luckiest Girl in the World"

I really love this second layout. Bryn posed for these one afternoon in her new sundress. The colors coordinated perfectly with these papers.I used two papers and stitched down the center to form the background paper. I used one 4x6 photo of Bryn matted with the plaid paper. This photo is popped up with pop dots. Next to it I placed three 2x3 photos. I added a cluster at the top left corner using punched circles, stickers, and a cute little button.There is also a little hidden journaling tag that sticks out at the bottom of the little cluster. To create this I just cut a rectangle, punched a hole, tied some ribbon and wrote my thoughts down. I tucked it behind the photo and used a little piece of bling to hold it in place. There is another cluster at the bottom right using stickers, buttons, bling, and the little prima roses that I inked with some brown distress ink. I added one more little sticker at the top left of the wallet photos.

Layout #3 "Everyday"

The last layout I have to share has lots of "white space." I used two different patterned papers to create a background. I cut off one side of the die-cut paper and let it stick out from under one side. I layered a ribbon over this and tied a little bow near the bottom. I created a cluster at the top left of the photo using a punched circle, stickers, buttons, and a clover I cut from the other side of the die-cut paper.The title went at the bottom of the pic. To tone down the bright green here I applied a little stazon black ink to the letters before placing them on the layout. The journaling was done on a little label sticker(not included in the kit) placed near the bottom of the page and under the ribbon. The last little touch I added to balance the layout was a couple of scraps of paper and a sticker that I stitched to the top left corner of the layout.

AND I still have lots left to play with. I intend to work on another layout or two this weekend using the kit. I will repeat myself here---the colors in this kit are just wonderful! So you know you NEED one! Well, that is all for me today. Make sure you check back tomorrow because there will be another reveal for the March Kit! You don't want to miss that! Oh yes, YOu can go here to check out the kit and order your very own! Have a wonderful day!

Still Lovin Baker's Dozen

2010-02-28T16:02:00.004-06:00

I am still getting layouts done using the February Studio Calico kit "Baker's Dozen." I just love this kit and their March kit just went up for sale and it is another winner. I used the kit to complete the latest sketch at The Scrappiest! I just love Liz's sketches. They really help get my juices flowing! Anyway, here is my take on #54 "by the Fire."

Bryn was enjoying a fudgesicle by the roaring fire on a VERY cold night here in South Louisiana. I thought this was such an example of complete opposites I just had to snap a few photos. Leave it to my girl to do things slightly backwards! I love the Basic Grey doilie against the pale pink card stock. The ice cream border strip was cut from a Sass paper. The Martha Stewart doilies were inked with some distress ink and layered with a crate paper journal sticker on top. I topped it all off with a sweet bow and a Sass feltie fudgesicle! Overall I really like the way it came together!
Be sure to stop by The Scrappiest and take a peek at the sketch as well as the other DT inspiration. Play along and you could win the March prize! Have a happy Monday!

Just some pics...

2010-02-26T19:17:00.005-06:00

Happy Friday Night! So glad for the weekend so I can slow down just a bit and enjoy! Thought I would share a few photos of Bryn I took yesterday. She was cooperative due to the rose,LOL! Guess I'll have to bribe her with flowers!

See you Monday with a reveal for The Scrappiest! Have a great weekend!

Happy Monday Blog Friends!

2010-02-20T19:15:00.007-06:00

Hope your week has started off well! Mine has, I am back at school after a week of vacation for Mardi Gras. I am refreshed and ready to get with it. Since it is Monday it means it is reveal day over at THE SCRAPPIEST. As always Liz has a wonderful sketch to spark your imagination. #53 is very versatile. Take a look:

My layout this week features some very old photos from an Easter Sunday when I was 13. It was a tradition to take photos each Sunday before church services in my grandparent's front yard. So here we are! I used the February Studio Calico Kit as well as pieces from all 3 add-ons. I really loved all of these. I tried to get a slightly vintage feel here. I even used mist this week. The little Martha Stewart paper doilies that form the base of the flowers were first painted with an orange shimmers paint. Then they were misted with coffee, daisy, and sherbet Glimmer Mists. I am impatient so I dried them with my embossing gun! The stamp "back in the day" was included in the main kit. I can see me using this one often.Anyway, here it is "Easter Sunday" (1978 or 1979 ?) I will be checking with my mom before I add the date, heehee!

Head on over to The Scrappiest to check out the rest of the DT examples. Make sure you play along this month, there is an awesome kit from Scrap for a Cure that is up for grabs! Have a wonderful Monday!

It's Up.....

2010-02-15T06:58:00.005-06:00

Sketch # 52 from The Scrappiest! It is another great one- layers, great embellie placement, and some white space. I used some pictures of Bryn climbing the big live oak tree in our backyard. She likes to climb it because this one branch touches the ground. These were taken a couple of weekends ago when south Louisiana finally had a nice sunny day. Anyway here is my take on the sketch:

I used the February kits from Studio Calico ( the main as well as items from the add-ons. shhh... I got all three!) I did lots of cutting and layering strips from the patterned paper under the pics. I love that prima canvas that is backing the pics. I used Tim Holtz mustard distress ink on everything. I love the vintage feel of this one.
Be sure to head over to The Scrappiest and check out the rest of the design team inspiration. There is plenty of it!! Complete your layout, link it up using Mr. Linky, and you could win that awesome kit form Scrap for a Cure! It's that simple. Hope everyone had a wonderful Valentine's Day and that you have a wonderful Monday!

Things are really "POPPIN"

2010-02-12T10:36:00.002-06:00

Aphra has a new kit club that will start up the first of March, but until then she is counting down the days with a new giveaway each day! Hop on over there and see what is "poppin"!">

Just a little goofy...

2010-02-07T11:13:00.004-06:00

We recently got an IMAC and I am pulling out my hair with iphoto! Can't figure out how to do many things I could manage with picaso3! However, the kids really love the photo booth application! I have many pics of them making silly faces etc. and taking snapshots using this! It is so funny! The pictures in my latest layout are some of Bryn and her friend Mya acting silly for the camera. I think they don't realize I am keeping some of these.

Anyway, it is Monday again and time for another sketch reveal at The Scrappiest! My take on it uses those candid shots and items from the February Noel Mignon kit . Here is my take "Goofy"

I think the title fits nicely! They are too funny! Make sure you head on over to The Scrappiest and play along. There is more inspiration from the rest of the design team and an awesome prize up for grabs. Have a great day!

I am Simply Obsessed

2010-02-05T17:02:00.002-06:00

Whooo Hoooooo.............I can now let the cat out of the bag! I have been given a position on the Simply Obsessed Design Team. I am over the moon excited! Simply Obsessed is an awesome kit club and a friendly inspiring scrapping community. I am so thrilled, oh, I said that already. Heather is keeping the suspense going. I am the third one of the new DT announced and we are waiting for more! Check out the site here and bite your nails with the rest of us! THANKS HEATHER!!!

Happy Monday!

2010-01-31T17:10:00.007-06:00

It is that time again over at The Scrappiest. Yep, sketch #50 is up! It's a good one with circles and layers of paper. My take on this one is "Just a Little Sass"

I love my little spiral flowers. They came out so cute and add just the right touch to the layout. Aren't they cute? I also used the die cut paper in place of the circle and trimmed it down. ANd yes doesn't my sweet heart look just a little sassy with the tilt of her head and her hands on her hips. Gotta love it! I hope you will stop by The Scrappiest, check out the sketch, and play along! Liz provides some really great inspiration. Have a Happy Monday!

Just Fun

2010-01-24T12:09:00.004-06:00

It is that time again....Sketch #49 is up at The Scrappiest! Once again Liz has provided some really great inspiration by way of her sketch not to mention the other Dt layouts! It has lots of opportunities for layering paper which is always good, circles (love me some circles), ribbon with a bow. and 3 wallet photos! I decided to use only 1 4x6 and a cool journal card from the Studio Calico Homefront collection I got this month! In fact the base of the layout uses the Homefront collection with a few other things added in that just felt right! This is my third layout with this collection and I still have plenty left!! Well enough, take a look at my layout based on the sketch:
"Just Fun"

It is an older photo of Bryn and her friend Ben. They were playing at Ben's Aunt Claudia's house while Ben's mom and I were closing up our classrooms for the summer. They love to spend time at Claudia's because she is so much fun and such a sweet person. THis day they got to play in the sprinkler! Oh what fun!

Make sure you stop by The Scrappiest and check out the sketch! You will want to get your entry in to Liz as this is the last sketch for January and the last chance to win that super awesome Studio Calico Home Front collection.

A Little Sugar and Spice...................

2010-01-22T08:32:00.008-06:00

Hi everyone and happy Friday!! Today I have my entry for Butterfly Crafts. I completed this layout based on their sketch below:

I also used the elements from the Noel Mignon Sugar and Spice Challenge. All the items used came from Noel's Sugar and Spice Kit! (Sorry it is sold out!) You have to stalk the site the morning the kit goes up to score one! They don't often last long!! This one was super fun!

Bryn's expression in this one is priceless! I used squares of paper to create pleating ( lifted this technique from A Scraphappy Southernbelle). I love all the texture it adds. Enjoy you weekend!

Lovin This Sketch

2010-01-18T12:22:00.004-06:00

Well, Liz has done it again, another great sketch! At first I wasn't so sure about this one, but it may be one of my all time favorites. That off center circle is just great! I used the Homefront collection to complete this layout of my son. Ryan was about 8-9 months here and is now fast approaching 17!! How time flies!! I love the way this turned out. I used some of the fab rips to create the flowers. They were super easy and quick! Anyway, make sure you head on over to THE SCRAPPIEST and check out this one. Play along for a chance to win the ENTIRE HOMEFRONT collection!! Have a great Monday!

LUCKY ME......

2010-01-11T12:03:00.002-06:00

A new sketch is up at The Scrappiest and it is another good one! Here is my take on #47 "Lucky Me"

I used my Home Front collection from Studio Calico.You could win yourself this awesome collection by playing along at The Scrappiest! Just complete one or all of the layouts in January to be eligable for the drawing!! Have a great Monday.

Madness.......

2010-01-07T12:26:00.004-06:00

Sock monkey madness that is!! My newest layout is up at Let's Scrap. The sketch is great! I did the A side only, but it is a double sketch. Stop by, join up, and play along with us at Let's Scrap! It is a great place to find inspiration!

Sock Monkeys are my daughters current love. Here she is with all of them in the bed in the hotel room in Natchitoches.
I framed the picture of her with some patterned paper I cut free hand to help it stand out. The monkey is some clip art I printed and cut apart to make a paper piecing pattern. I used pop dots to add a little dimension to parts of him. Overall I am happy with it! Hope everyone is having a great day and remember to stop by Let's Scrap to check it all out! Oh yeah, watch for my challenge that will post tomorrow at Let's Scrap.

WOW!!

2010-01-03T16:46:00.007-06:00

is the Januray sponsor at The Scrappiest . The January winning layout will win the entire Homefront collection!! Take a look at this sweet prize:

Isn't it great! Ya know ya want it. So here is what ya gotta do for a chance to win. Complete any or all of Liz's January sketches at The Scrappiest and you will be entered to win. THat's it!!!!
The first sketch is up for January so get on by and get to work! Here is my take on it:

I used my December Studio Calico kit to complete this one. The pic is too funny. THis is my son, Sean. He is 21 and still loves Santa!! It is priceless!! He was so excited when "Claus" showed up on CHristmas Eve at my mother's house for a visit! It made his night!!!

Have a great day!!

So Quirky!

2009-12-28T19:49:00.000-06:00

The latest sketch is up at The Scrappiest and it is a winner! I got to scrap pics of my daughter modeling a hat in front of our tree. Sometimes these little moments remind me of myself. Get by THe Scrappiest and check out this great sketch and the other DT examples for inspiration. And then, play along with us!

Hope everyone had a very merry Christmas--we sure did!

Merry & Bright

2009-12-23T06:00:00.000-06:00

The latest sketch is up over at Let's Scrap. It is a 2 pager, but I chose to do the A side only. I used some of the pictures from our trip to Natichitoches.

I am lovin my handcut and pieced tree. I drew the tree on cardstock to create a pattern. i then cut it apart and traced onto different patterned papers, which I put together using foam dots to add dimension. I added a few brads for ornaments, some stickles glitter glue in icicle for snow( hard to see in pic!), a ribbon threaded button for the top and finally, a handcut trunk. Love it!! Go check out the sketch and play along. I will be watching the gallery to see what everyone comes up with. The rest of this week will prove to be way busy, so if I don't make it back on here before-----Merry Christmas everyone!!

City of Lights and Some Craftiness

2009-12-21T06:06:00.016-06:00

Bryn and I spent the weekend of December 11 in Natichitoches with my parents. We stayed a a beautiful little inn that was one block off of Front Street. The rooms were just beautiful. Natichitoches is known as the "City of Lights" because it hosts a Christmas Festival each year. THis year was the 83rd. We had a great time shopping, eating, and watching the awesome fireworks display. Bryn even got in her visit with Santa. We throughly enjoyed ourselves. Here are a few photos from the weekend.
The Church Street Inn

Shopping on Front Street

Eating at the Pioneer Pub

Visiting with Santa

Fireworks and others

Sketch #44 is up at The Scrappiest and it is a great one photo sketch. I used one of the photos from our Natchitoches weekend and the December Studio Calico Kit( alphas and floss not part of kit) to complete this one. I tore paper, inked, and hand stitched.

The journaling explains the title! My dad secretly bought Bryn her latest obsession, Sock Monkeys, while we waited outside on this bench. He came out to join us with the bag. Bryn was unaware that his bag holding his recent purchase contained three of the current craze. She was thrilled when he gave them to her later that night. They are now her constant companions! Make sure you get over to check out the sketch and get your entry in for the December prize.
And here she is with those prized possessions!

Have a wonderful last few days before Christmas. It is crazy, but remember to enjoy this special, beautiful time! Have a wonderful day!

Ahh Christmas!!

2009-12-14T16:31:00.003-06:00

Rushing, no time,feeling overwhelmed, but remebering all those special things! In the end it's all worth it! Yeah, I am givin myself a little pep talk right about now! Things are getting really crazy during this last week of school before Christmas vacation. There is way too much to do and attend. My layout for sketch #43 at The Scrappiest is one of those memories I cherish from a Christmas past. My sweet little boys dressed as angels. Yeah, I know you can see a little devilish gleam in Ryan's eye!But isn't this just such a sweet pic! Love it and miss this time!

Make sure you play along at The Scrappiest for a chance to win Liz's great prize! Oh and I got an email from Liz today that I am sooooooo excited about!!! More details to come later!!Yipeeeeee!!!

YOU GOTTA CHECK THIS OUT......

2009-12-08T12:57:00.006-06:00

A really wonderful giveaway! Check out the giveawy for this desk and desktop on Stephanie Howell's blog. This is one BIG giveaway.
Here is the desk---How awesome is this!!

Here is the desktop----I'm in love....

Check it out or NOT!!! ( I would have a better chance this way:0))

#42

2009-12-06T15:26:00.003-06:00

I LOVE this sketch!! I decided to use some older pics of the boys from Halloween 95. Aren't they cute as little crayons. I miss the days that I got to choose costumes and they were happy to wear them. Anyway, stop by The Scrappiest and check out this great sketch and all the other DT inspiration! Have a great day!

Excited!!

2009-11-24T07:14:00.007-06:00

I have to toot my horn! I have a layout published in the November issue of Scrapbook News and Review! Be sure to check it out. THis magazine has lots of great inspiration.

Next up, my layout for Sketch #40 at THE SCRAPPIEST. This sketch is great and I just love how my layout came together. The other DT examples are sure to get your creative juices flowing! Be sure to check it out.

supplies: Most items came from the Noel Mignon "Dear Santa" kit. This kit is jam packed with awesome Chritmas goodies. It is also sold out! Sorry. I did add a Jillibean large red button and a strip of red and white ribbon from my stash.">

#39

2009-11-16T09:50:00.003-06:00

Oh to Be back at the beach with my classmates!!! That would be great. This is another picture from my 25th reunion beach trip to Orange Beach, Alabama. This was taken on the evening we arrived. We were ready for some fun and we had us some! Anyway the layout is based on sketch #39 from Liz at The Scrappiest and as usual it is awesome!! I used lots of products from my studio calico kit to complete this one. I just love the Maya Road kraft envelopes. I placed one behind the patterned paper and had the flap hang over. Inside is a journaling card with some sentiments. Love the way this one came out.

Stop by The Scrappiest to check out the sketch and the other DT layouts. Lots of great inspiratiom there! Hope everyone has a wonderful week!

Hosting my Second Challenge

2009-11-15T08:26:00.004-06:00

over at Let's Scrap! Be sure to go check it out, join up if you aren't already, and play along! I would love to see what everyone comes up with!

Okay here is the challenge: Use tissue on your layout. That's it! Use it any way you can think of. For my sample layout I used colored tissue strips and modge podge to create the background for the page. It was simple and added a lot of punch!

Deadline to enter is Thursday midnight! Let's see what cha got:0

Also, check out the main page for this week's sketch. You might play along there also. Here is my layout based on the sketch.

Mosh Posh Blog HOp

2009-11-12T13:34:00.001-06:00

Check out the blog hop at Mosh Posh, a great kit company. There are some great prizes not to mention awesome inspiration!! Here is a link Have a Happy Thursday!!

#38

2009-11-09T12:20:00.003-06:00

Loved this sketch from Liz over at The Scrappiest! As usual she offers wonderful inspiration! Be sure to check it out and play along for a chance at the November prize. Happy Monday to ya!!

Holiday Giveaway....

2009-11-06T13:07:00.001-06:00

on Lindsay's blog Three Little Blessings! Go check it out for a chance to win!!

Pumpkin by Design

2009-11-02T10:06:00.001-06:00

Yes, I have a "pumpkin designer" at my house! This year Bryn insited that she could design her own without any help! She did just that.
My layout Pumpkin Design is based on sketch #37 from The Scrappiest. I took a few liberties with it---flipped it, moved the embellie cluster over slightly, used 4 wallet photos in place of the one larger photo, and incorporated a bracket instead of the circle! I made those super cute pumpkins using the oval on my Cricut George cartridge. I simply cut 3 and glued together in an overlapping fashion to create a pumpkin shape. I added a few handsewn stitches. (Thanks for this inspiration Frances!) I love my layout! Follow this LINK over to The Scrappiest and check out this super sketch along with all the other DT inspiration! Have a great Monday!!

Supplies: Cardstock-Bazzill; patterened paper-Pink Paislee, KI memories, Lily Bee, Scenic Route; Die cut paper-Creative Imaginations; Bracket-Pink Paislee; Floss-DMC; Journal and date cards-Pink Paislee; Ribbon- Pink Paislee;Punch- EK Success; Alphas-American Crafts, Making Memories; Stash-buttons.

The Witching Hour

2009-11-01T07:23:00.009-06:00

has come and gone! This year I had a Dark Bride to escort. She and her friend, Mya, had a wonderful time! They were a bit scared to enter the haunted houses that were up for their enjoyment, but with much coaxing I got them to go into one. Their response, "It wasn't even scary!" Hope everyone had a Happy Halloween!

A smiling Dark Bride??

Sweet little ones

What a crew!

A Gothic Cheerleader and The Dark Bride

Bryn posing with her most fav decoration!

Found my parents on facebook! Popeye and Olive Oil!!

Celebrating Nine

2009-10-29T10:04:00.003-05:00

My beautiful little girl turned nine on Sept.15. She had just a couple of friends over for some fun. We went to a movie and then they became "craft divas" for a little more fun. These pics are some I snapped of them at work! The sketch is based on this week's reveal at Let's Scrap! It is a nice 2 pager. Be sure to check it out. Who knows you might win the fabulous prize. Have a great day!

Antics

2009-10-27T12:00:00.001-05:00

Here is my take on the latest sketch at The Scrappiest! These girls can be something else!! I included some quilling on this layout. It is something I had been wanting to try for a while. I loved the way it turned out. Hop on by The Scrappiest and take a look at the sketch. While you are at it why don't you join in the fun! Happy Tuesday!

Those Everyday Moments

2009-10-19T12:05:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I just sit back and think about all of the wonderful things in our everyday life. It often gets so busy that we don't take time to appreciate those small things. I love that I caught Bryn enjoying her giant lollipop. She was all wrapped up in her TV show and was licking away! She had no idea I snapped these. These everyday moments should be treasured!

This layout is based on Sketch #35 from The Scrappiest. Be sure to stop by there and check it out. Play along if you get the time. Liz offers up some nice prizes. For this layout I used a combination of past Studio Calico kits. I just kind of grabbed bits and pieces from about 3 different ones. THe corrugated edging is a Starbucks coozie that I opened up and inked. I think it adds some nice texture.

Check Out My Challenge...

2009-10-15T21:31:00.004-05:00

over at Let's Scrap! I was in charge of posting a challenge this week and here is what I came up with:
1. Use my sketch
2. Use a handmade embellie
3. Use threaded buttons
4. Use journaling strips
That's it!
Here is my layout "Growing Up"

Here is my first ever sketch:

So why not join in and play along. Get your layout done and upload it over at Let's Scrap! Who knows you might just win a prize package from ME:0) Happy Scrappin!

Go Strickers!

2009-10-15T05:53:00.004-05:00

ANd boy did they! A win for their first game! They played hard and had a great time. This layout is based on the new sketch that is up over at Let's Scrap. I used it twice. Look below at the Hip Layouts to spot it yet again for "Ren Fest". Hop on over to Let's Scrap and check it out. Be sure to check back tomorrow because it is my turn to post the DT challenge this Friday. Hope to see you play along! Have a great day :0)

Layouts and Cards

2009-10-13T05:59:00.020-05:00

Time to share the layouts and cards from this great kit!! I loved it especially the Jillibean corrugated alphas. Those are awesome. Kimberly still has some of these left, so get by there quick if you want to purchase one!

Have a great day!

Helloooo................

2009-10-12T20:00:00.001-05:00

It has been crazy busy around here! I have been scrapping away, but have not been able to post much. Today I have a reveal! This is for sketch #34 at The Scrappiest. THis is a really great sketch and I got to use pictures from my girl's trip to Orange Beach, Alabama. Fifteen of us from the Mt. Carmel class of 1984 spent a long weekend together in celebration of our 25th year since graduation. We had waaaayyyy too much fun!

Head on over to The Scrappiest check out the sketch and play along!
I will have a post soon with all my cards and layouts from the September Hip 2B Square kit! It is a wonderful kit! I also have a great mini from a project pack Kimberly sent from Hip 2b square!

I'm Published!!

2009-10-04T09:07:00.000-05:00

In the October issue of Scrapstreet Magazine. I sent in a layout for the Use Orange color call and was thrilled to be contacted because my layout "A Perfect 20" will be included in the October issue:0)You can check it out HERE. I am still doing the happy dance about this one!:0)!!!!:0)!!!!

A Little Nostalgic

2009-09-28T05:59:00.004-05:00

Hello everyone! Happy Wednesday to you. Today a new sketch is up at Let's Scrap and I have a reveal for you. This one was a two pager or we could do only one side. Well, I had every intention of doing two pages, but this just kept calling me. So, i went with it and am so glad I did. I love the way this layout came together.

This picture of my sweet girl has me nostalgic for those sweet little baby girl days! I miss them so much and until I look at pics like these I forget how much she has grown!
Products: AC white cardstock, patterened paper Basic Grey Lemonade, Journaling stickers Making Memories, Butterfly rubon Jenni Bowlin, alphas Anna Griffin, Basic Grey, and Making Memories, Cardstock stickers Basic Grey.

Head on over to Let's Scrap to check out this sketch as well as a new design team challenge that is posted each Friday. There are some nice prizes to be had.

Well, this will be my last post for a few days. I am headed off to the beach with the girls from my high school senior class for a twenty-five year reunion. We get to spend a whole four days at the beach catching up and having fun! I am so excited to see everyone. Have a great week:0)

Go Big Red

2009-09-26T08:19:00.006-05:00

Well, it is Monday and time for another Scrappiest reveal. You can check out Liz's latest sketch HERE. She provides some really wonderful sketches that truly inspire. I also was able to incorporate the menu challenge over at A La Carte. This is challenge # 8 Sack Lunch. Frances and Aphra put up a new menu twice a month on the first and the fifteenth. You choose at least three of the items to include in your layout. It is always lots of fun. Be sure to check them out. Both The Scrappiest and A La Carte offer a monthly prize. Oh and at A La Carte they are looking for a guest designer each month. I was able to do that in August and I just loved it.

Bryn's new school, Catholic High of New Iberia, is proving to be a success! She has joined the Little Panthers Pep Squad and is loving it! There are 71 4-6 grade girls yelling their hearts out for the Panthers!!! They are a force to be reckoned with!! Anyhow, this was their first game to cheer for---a varsity football game. She loved it! It brings back so many memories as this is the school her dad graduated from and where I spent my high school years watching him play football. Gotta love that!
The A La Carte menu items I used were: use a brown paper bag, use notebook paper, use primary colors, use the word first somewhere on your layout (in my journaling).
Happy Monday!

My Sweet Girl

2009-09-20T11:26:00.005-05:00

It is Monday and time for another sketch at The Scrappiest! This was a fun sketch and gave me a chance to use this Anna Griffin paper I have had for a while. I took advantage of the trees so that I could cut out a few of the little monkeys and place them hanging from the trees. I just love these bright colors--orange, pink and green- on the white background with a little black added to help hold it all together. I cut a strip from the green basic grey paper, punched it and then pleated it. I layered some green paper lace over that and then some wide black ric rac. I just love the way this layout came together. Bryn is in Pre-K in this picture and she just has the sweetest expression. Hurry on over and check out the rest of the DT examples along with the latest sketch #31. It's a winner!

Last Post for Today....

2009-09-16T16:44:00.009-05:00

Lots of posts for today! I promise this will be it for today! I have a few layouts and cards to share. They were all completed using the project pack from Hib 2b Square Scarpbooking! Here they are:
Doin' Her Thing

I love the way this layout came together! I used a September sketch from over at So Sketchy! Allison has some great ones. Be sure to check her out. This is Bryn's first year of soccer and she is practicing EVERY chance she gets and lovin' it!
Celebrate Being 2gether

And finally 3 cards competed with bits and pieces left from the project pack.

Be sure to drop by Hip 2b Square to order the project pack!

Gotta Share

2009-09-16T05:56:00.006-05:00

The September Hip Kit and Add-on kits from Hib 2b Square! They are really great!!

Fall is here and our September Hip Kit embraces everything that September has to offer. Back to school, cooler weather, and rich colors. No kids - no problem - each of the themed papers have a great non - themed reverse side. The embellishments are purely fall. Lots of texture, great lines and fabulous colors. If you aren't a member of our Hip Kit Club - there is still time to sign up to receive our September Kit.All of this for $25.00 - plus you get our design work for free!

Great products from Ocotber Afternoon, Jillibean-Soup, Scrap Within Reach, Sassafras Lass, Dream Street Paper, Jenni Bowlin, Bazzill, Coredination Cardstock, Tim Holtz, Creative Imaginations and more. Don't miss out - sign up soon!

Contents:
1 package Jillibean-Soup Corrugated Cardboard Alphabet Die Cuts
1 package Prima Marketing Brown Felt Floral Stems
1 package Prima Marketing Burlap Bittles Flowers
1 package Red Embroidery Floss
1 package Parakeet Green Embroidery Floss
1 package Whirlpool Blue Embroidery Floss
1 package Prima Marketing Self Adhesive Pearls and Gems
1 2 oz. bottle Americana Bitter Chocolate Acrylic Craft Paint
Cost $18.50
Our Add-On Kits come in limited quantities - so when they are gone their gone. If you are a Hip Kit Club Member - make sure to reserve yours soon - so you don't miss out. Email kimberly@hip2bsquarescrapbooking.com if you have any questions.
Check it out at HIP 2b SQUARE.

Just for You

2009-09-15T20:46:00.004-05:00

A new sketch is up at Let's Scrap! It is a unique one. I wasn't quite sure what to do at first, but I love the card I came up with. You can check out the sketch HERE as well as what the other design team members came up with.

Look What I made............

2009-09-15T19:54:00.015-05:00

with products from Hip 2b Square! Kimberly sent me a fabulous project pack that was literally stuffed with all sorts of wonderful goodies. I had a great time creating this mini album.

"Summer Oh Nine"

I also created a couple of layouts and cards using this bulging pack of goodies. Stay tuned as I will be posting these soon. Each DT member received a different pack of products and their reveals will be going up on the HIP BLOG over the next week or so. Be sure to drop by and check it all out. While you are there be sure to check out what Kimberly has to offer in the store, which is where all of these goodies came from:)She is offering this album as a class or you can order a kit containing all the items needed to create it.

Latest Sketch at The Scrappiest.

2009-09-13T15:29:00.005-05:00

It is that time again. Another sketch from Liz over at The Scrappiest. She has the most wonderful sketches--I just love working with them. Sketch # 30 is up so check it out HERE. Here is my take on it:

"My 3 Boys"

When I saw this sketch I knew I wanted to use these pics of my boys when they were little. It is so sweet to remember them this way because now the range in size from 6 feet to 6 feet 2!!! It is hard to believe these big boys were once these small children. Anyway, this was taken at my grandmother's house on Easter Sunday 1995. They had a day full of fun hunting eggs and playing outside with their cousins.The patterned paper is BG June Bug. The large base for the Dymo journaling is Prima packaging. Remember to check out Liz's sketch and what the other design team members did. Get your layout based on the sketch done and email it to Liz for a chance at the monthly prize. Hope everyone has a happy Monday and a great week!

So Sketchy and A La Carte

2009-09-12T08:45:00.007-05:00

"& She Is" is my entry at both SO Sketchy and A La Carte. It is based on the Sept. #7 Sketch from So Sketchy( Check it out HERE) and used menu items from the Challenge #7 at A La Carte. I used four of the menu items: symbol in title, 3 shades of green, silver embellie, and bookprint. I just loved this sketch and am thinking of flipping it and using it again. Gotta reuse those oh so great ones! The pic is of my daughter in second grade when she was an altar girl for our school mass. She looks so sweet!! Go check out both So Sketchy and A La Carte. Play along, who knows you might just win one of the prizes!!

I WON!!!

2009-09-12T06:11:00.004-05:00

The August prize that is at the SO SKETCHY blog for my layout "Chillin at the Beach"! Thanks to all those who voted. Allison has lots of sketches up for September already. Be sure to go check them out. I love her sketches. I already have two more done for this month. I just have to get them photographed and sent in to her and then I will share them here. Hope everyone has a great weekend. Here is another look at my winning layout.

The Scrappiest Sketch #29

2009-09-07T17:30:00.003-05:00

Happy Labor Day Everyone! I have a layout to share today! It is for SKetch #29 over at The Scrappiest. It is a really great sketch and you can check it out HERE. I used an old pic of my daughter from when she was in pre-k. This was taken at the Tea Party. I used a handmade embellie, the tea cup. Go on over to The Scrappiest and check out what the rest of the DT did with this one. There are some really great takes on it! I just have to say Thanks Liz for the wonderful inspiration!! What cha waitin for get over there and play along! Who knows you might be a winner!!

Vote For Me......

2009-09-06T13:53:00.002-05:00

I am showing no shame!! My layout "Chillin at the Beach" is up for public vote on the So Sketchy blog! Please go on over and vote (preferrably for me:0) Thanks a million! SUsan

September 2 Sketch at Let's SCrap

2009-09-02T19:30:00.004-05:00

I am so excited to have my first layout as part of the DT up over at Let's Scrap! There is a great sketch you can check out here. Here is my take:

I love all of the photos I got to include with this one. I used Jillibean soup papers. I even got to do a little recycling-the red netting is an onion bag! Stop by Let's Scrap and check out the sketch. There are also some great challenges and even prizes. You might even check out the forum. It is a great place.

More Layouts and Cards with the August Hip Kit and Sketch #28 at The Scrappiest

2009-08-31T20:10:00.010-05:00

The August Hip Kit is just wonderful. I have had so much fun with this one. The mix of papers and embellies is perfect. These are a few more cards and layouts that I completed. If you haven't yet, you SHOULD go check out Kimberly's wonderful kits at Hip 2b Square!

A new sketch is up at THE SCRAPPIEST! You can check it out here.It is a great sketch! My layout features lots of ribbon pleating around the heart. This is an older picture of my family at the Krewe of Artemis Mardi Gras Ball. Head on over to The Scrappiest so you can check out what the rest of the DT did with this one. They are all very unique.

A Couple of Layouts featuring the August Hip Kit

2009-08-29T07:00:00.008-05:00

Hi everyone! It has been crazy busy around our house! The start of a new school year, soccer season, Little Panthers Cheer Squad, voice lessons.....and the list goes on!!! Anyway, I have been working on my Hip Kit layouts when a moment arises. I have 2 that have been revealed over at the Hip Blog and wanted to share those here. The kit is just wonderful.
"1 True Friend"

This is a very simple layout featuring a photo taken of my dear friend Peggy and I at a 50th wedding anniversary party for our principal and his wife. He is the most awesome boss! I used the pp to cut different size circles to highlight my pic. I distressed the edges and inked them with black ink. I used a journal sprout as a base for my title and added a little impact with some swirls cut with my cricut and smeared with black diamonds stickles.I also added one of the great Prima flowers with the puff paint. These provide so much texture. I finished it off with a threaded button. Since I must be addicted to the Dymo, I added journaling using black label tape.

"Far Far Away"

Here is my second layout using this kit. It features photos taken at the Krewe of Artemis Coronation. My dad is the captain of the krewe while my niece is a princess ( kind of like a debutante in South Louisiana Mardi Gras, but this is North Louisiana Mardi Gras. I guess a few things are different!)I used a little color blocking with the patterend paper in the kit. I just loved the Jenni Bowlin crepe ribbon and I used it as a tie in the hand cut journal tag(cut from the pp in the kit) as well as pleating it across the top of one side of the layout.I used the journal sprouts as a base for my monogram A cut from the cardstock using my cricut. I aso inked it with the black ink. I used the other as a date tag. I layered up those wonderful Prima flowers, cardstock cutouts,and chipboard accents. Last, but certainly not least I added a few threaded buttons.
These kits are packed full, very affordable, and just wonderfully coordinated! They are a must have, so go check them out here. Stay tuned for more layouts and cards featuring the August Hip Kit and a project completed with a really sweet project pack provided by Kimberly.

Scrappin' with

2009-08-24T08:29:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to be designing for The Scrappiest! It is a great sketch blog. Liz offers some awesome sketches with a chance at a great prize each month. To play along just create a layout based on one of her sketches for the month,email it to her and your name goes in the hat for the prize! It's that easy!
Here is my take on sketch #27 :

You can check out the sketch HERE. SO get on over there, check it out, and join in the fun :0)
Happy Monday to all!

Hey....Let's Scrap!!

2009-08-16T14:03:00.003-05:00

Woot! Woot! I have been given a spot on the design team over at Let's Scrap! Let's Scrap is a scrapbook inspiration blog and community that offers a weekly sketch! I am thrilled to have been chosen and can't wait to get started! So, Hop on over to Let's Scrap, join up, and play along. I know you will love it!

Hope to see you there :0) Susan