Charlene Engel

It's 2012!!!! And what a great year it's gonna be

2012-01-09T05:06:00.000-08:00

Well, we finally made it to 2012. I hope you all are having a great New Year so far!! I don't have a lot of time this morning, but I wanted to post something really quick since it has been so long. I am back to school and things are going to change a bit here on the blog. My schedule is going to be EXTREMELY busy so, crafting is going to take the backseat for a while. I have some personal things that I am going to try and finish, but as far as swaps and new projects...won't be doing that for quite a while.

The blog is going to take on a new look. I am going to document my school journey and make it more about my everyday life, so there won't be any scrapbooking or crafting things on here anymore. I will hopefully get to revamping the page some time this week.

Well, gotta run....first two classes are this morning! Wish me luck!

Magnolia Christmas Tilda

2011-10-26T08:32:00.001-07:00

Halo Tilda

2011-10-25T09:55:00.001-07:00

La La Land Crafts - Marci with Flower

2011-10-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

Today's the day.......

2011-10-13T07:12:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:
Well, today is it!! This beautiful unit is coming today! I can't begin to tell you how excited I am about this - for so many reasons...it is a beautiful unit that can be put anywhere and from looking from the outside, you would think it was just a piece of furniture! Oh...not so...open that baby up and there is a world of FABULOSITY inside!! LOL
This will also allow me to free up the spare bedroom. You never know when you might need that room for something else! ;)
This post is short and sweet, but I have to go get ready for delivery..which should be any minute now!
Be sure to check out The Original Scrapbox Workbox
You will absolutely love it! :)

Capri Marci - La La Land Stamps

2011-10-12T07:47:00.000-07:00

Pilot Luka - La La Land

2011-10-12T07:45:00.000-07:00

My Copic Journal

2011-10-11T12:37:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:
I had so much fun today making my Copic Journal. As stated in my video, I believe the PDF files that were created to make the pages were done by Copic Munkie.
I used my Bind-It-All for the very first time and created this journal. I used Tim Holtz's papers, Prima bling, tons of charms and embellishments and the butterfly is from Karlas001 on Etsy.
I hope this inspires you to get into Copics and to definitely create your own Copic Journal!
Have a great day!

Busy, Busy, Busy

2011-10-10T06:08:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:
What a busy weekend we had here in our house! We had new windows put in on Friday and then my husband had to paint the trim. YES..the house was upside down for sure. We finally got everything back in decent order late last night. It looks just beautiful! With the new tile and now the new windows..I just love the way everything is turning out. My poor husband...he travels during the week and then comes home and gets started on home improvements...he never rests! But, I will say..his hard work truly does pay off. Everything looks wonderful.
SO....guess what's coming to my house tomorrow???? The Scrapbox Workbox!!!!! I am SO EXCITED!!! I will definitely post pictures and maybe a video if I can when we are putting it together and then when it's finally done!
Well...you guessed it..I am Copic coloring today! I am so addicted to these markers now..it's unreal! LOL I ordered some stamps today and a Copic wallet. I have been watching some videos on making a sketchbook..I think that's an awesome idea! So, I may experience a bit with making one today..we will see!
I have some swaps to put in the mail and then I will be able to sit down and do some crafting. I found a great crafting store on Ebay...Daryln Magazines and Crafts they have some great stuff...hop over and check them out. I have also fallen in love with Magnolia-licious Stamps such cute images. I would love to hear what stamps you guys are using! I am so new to this but love seeing the images that everyone is coloring. So, if you have some good resources, please leave me a comment and let me know where you shop!
Have a great day! :)

Copic Mania....LOL

2011-10-06T06:38:00.000-07:00

Yes...it's another day of LOVING Copics! I have been watching Suzanne J. Dean's Copic video tutorials and she is just FABULOUS! If you love Copics or you are interested in checking them out or what you can do with them...you have to check out Suzanne's Blog.
I signed up for her beginner's online class today, so I am VERY excited to get started. I have had my Copics for a while and I have played with them on my own...but, I would really like to work toward becoming Copic certified and really learning how to use these markers. I am amazed at the artwork that I have seen created with these markers. It is truly amazing. I have started a small - very small - collection of stamps that work well with Copics. I have put some new blinkies on my sidebar..go check them out. The sites have a wonderful selection and you won't be sorry! If you haven't tried Copics, check out Suzanne's site and then hop over to some of the sites I have listed. OH and let me send you to the best retailer to buy your Copics from.... THE AWESOME OOZAK SITE! and they don't just carry Copics...they carry a lit bit of everything!!! Check them out...and they have LIGHTENING fast shipping and WONDERFUL customer service! I ordered some markers this morning and they are already being packaged and shipped today!! AMAZING! Ok...I am off..please let me know if you visit Suzanne's site or the Oozak site....and if you step into the wonderful world of Copics, I would LOVE to see your artwork...and I will post it here to share! Just send me some photos! :) Have a great day!

Copic Coloring...

2011-10-04T15:01:00.000-07:00

If there is one addiction that I have definitely given in to...it's Copic markers!!! I love them!! I am dying to take one of Suzanne Dean's classes..but, I just haven't gotten around to it quite yet. Anyone...I love LA LA Land Stamps...they are perfect for the newbie Copic artist. This is little Marci! Isn't she darling??
I just had to share what I did with her...Hope you like it! :)
Do you color with Copics?? I would love to see your artwork...leave me a comment with a link to your blog and let me check it out! :)
Have a great day, everyone!!

Hi Everyone...it's been a while!

2011-10-03T17:28:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:
I know it's been a while...I have been having way too much fun! LOL I am the swap coordinator for two wonderful NING sites and I have been busy working on some upcoming swaps.
I hope everyone is doing well. The weather has really cooled down here and I am so excited that Fall is finally here. It's my favorite time of year. I have been decorating the house a bit and getting ready for our new windows that are coming on Friday! I will be sharing some pictures!
Well, sorry this post is so short, but I am heading back to the boards to post some more swaps and check in on everyone.
I am making a ton of charms this week and I will be working on a travelogue entry, so I will be sure to post pics.
Take care!!!

GRAND OPENING - My Etsy Shop - Fish House Dream!! :)

2011-09-20T16:53:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone:

Well, I finally did it!! My Etsy shop is finally open!!
Please go check it out!!! Let me know what you think! Just click on the link below! :)

Fish House Dream

Snowflakes and Hearts Dew Drop Crystal Picks

2011-09-20T10:51:00.000-07:00

Hi All:

Here are the snowflakes and the hearts. These picks are great to add to just about any project you are making! I just love them! They sparkle like crazy..so, if you don't like to deal with glitter, these would be the perfect solution for you! These are available in sets of 4 for $3.00 as well! Just ask for Char's Hearts crystal picks or Clarissa's Snowflakes crystal picks.

CRYSTAL BLING!

2011-09-20T09:19:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone:
I am creating today and I have made these BEAUTIFUL crystal picks!! I just LOVE them! They are a great addition to your scrapbook pages, cards, floral sprays..you name it! They add just the right touch of bling to any project!! I am selling these for $3.00 for a set of 4. Shoot me an email if you would like some! I am also making some dew drops too....I am making hearts ( of course) and snowflakes. I will post those later! Have a great day!!

More Paper Than Shoes Guest Designer Projects for September

2011-09-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

MIA

2011-09-17T16:27:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:

Yes, I have been missing in action!! Sorry about that. We have had so much going on lately. We put a new floor in the house and we have been doing a lot of work putting all of the Summer fun stuff away, closing the pool...the list never ends! LOL

Well, I am super excited....I am a guest designer for Anna Fearer this month! I just LOVE her flowers! I will be creating my project tomorrow...and I will be sure to post pictures. I will also do a video of the flowers that she sent me so you can see them. If you haven't visited her store...please be sure to do so by clicking on the link in this post.

Well...that's all for now and I promise to pop in more often! :)

Have a great day!

My First Travelogue - Your Paper Pantry

2011-08-26T08:04:00.001-07:00

Clay Roses for my Etsy Store

2011-08-23T08:53:00.001-07:00

I AM ROSES - Design Team Call Entry

2011-08-22T07:59:00.001-07:00

And the winner is............

2011-08-22T05:40:00.000-07:00

MPTA BLOG HOP!!! Welcome

2011-08-19T21:48:00.000-07:00

This is "More Paper Than Shoes" first blog hop! See what these
talented ladies design using MPTS flowers from the store! There will
be a huge giveaway too on Anna Fearer's Blog! Please be sure to check out Anna's blog for

the sale that she has going on right now. Be sure to use the coupon code mptsbloghop and you will

receive 15% off of your order!

I used Anna's Sea Foam collection to create this very simple note book. It was so easy to put together and Anna's flowers added that special touch! :)

Blog List:

Anna - http://www.annafearer.blogspot.com/

Patricia - http://pattyandcharlie.blogspot.com/

Marlene - http://uniquelyella.blogspot.com/

Charlene - http://lifeissogood495.blogspot.com/

Kristen - http://huneebcreations.blogspot.com/

Doreen - http://mybedazzledtreasures.blogspot.com/

Patty - http://scrap-happinings.blogspot.com/

Angela - http://theblingtheory.blogspot.com/

Juliana - http://iluvvintagescrap.blogspot.com/

Thank you so much for stopping by. Head on over to Kristen's Blog!

Have fun and happy hopping! :)
**Be sure to leave a comment and check back on my blog on Monday, August 22, 2011. I will be posting a video and drawing names from everyone that leaves a comment. The winner will receive the notebook created with Anna's flowers! :) Good luck! **

MPTS Blog Hop & I am in it! :)

2011-08-03T04:31:00.000-07:00

I am so honored and SUPER EXCITED to be a part of the More Paper Than Shoes VERY FIRST blog hop! We will be designing with the AWESOME Anna Fearer's BEAUTIFUL paper flowers! This event is on August 20th! Be sure to check out the beautiful creations the ladies listed below have made with her beautiful flowers!!!!See you there! :)

Blog List:

Anna - http://www.annafearer.blogspot.com/

Patricia - http://pattyandcharlie.blogspot.com/

Marlene - http://uniquelyella.blogspot.com/

Charlene - http://lifeissogood495.blogspot.com/

Kristen - http://huneebcreations.blogspot.com/

Doreen - http://mybedazzledtreasures.blogspot.com/

Patty - http://scrap-happinings.blogspot.com/

Angela - http://theblingtheory.blogspot.com/

Juliana - http://iluvvintagescrap.blogspot.com/

Today......

2011-07-20T07:12:00.001-07:00

Sometimes, it's just a thought or sometimes, it's a song I will hear. Maybe a picture of when I was little or just a passing memory that will cross my mind. Today...it's my heart. Today, it's the tears that are falling from eyes that you would always wipe away! Today....it's the harsh reality that no matter how much I want to change it...I can't! No matter how hard I fight or how much I want to convince myself that maybe it's something different....it's not! There's nothing I can do! It's the mistakes I have made as a mom...that maybe I wouldn't have made had I had you with me...to tell me what you would have done. It's the times when I feel ugly...lonely...scared and just want to be in your arms and hear you tell me that you love me...and I am still your little girl and that everything will be alright! There are the days that I am strong...you would be so proud of me! There are the days that I am at peace and I know that I did the best I could! But today....that's not it! Today...I miss you, more than ever! I love you more than you could have ever imagined! Today, I am angry, I am hurt and I am helpless! Today....I want to take it all away! I want to bring you home and make everything better! Why can't I do that??? I wanted to do that.....I left it all to do that!! I walked away from my job believing it would all be ok! It wasn't....it was worse than I ever could have imagined! I am so sorry!! I HATE where you are! I HATE this disease! As much as I hate it all....I LOVE YOU SO MUCH MORE....like never before!

Sometimes..you just have to laugh at yourself....

2011-06-30T06:12:00.000-07:00

Ok...so, I am probably gonna regret posting this video of my daughter and I being silly on a little shopping trip before we went to Hawaii...but, sometimes...you just have to laugh at yourself..and this video really helped me do that! So..I wanted to share it with all of you...hope it makes you laugh...and please, go easy on us about how goofy and weird we are!!

Recipe Swap fun.....

2011-06-30T05:51:00.000-07:00

PAPER PHENOMENON!!! :)

2011-06-28T09:55:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!
I am SO EXCITED to share some news with you!! I am now a moderator on the wonderful site PAPER PHENOMENON! I am super happy about this! It's a great site and Kathy is the BEST! She does some AWESOME kits and projects - you truly have to check this site out!!! Come on over and join us!! You won't be sorry!! :)

Much love,

Recipe Box and Recipe Card Swap~

2011-06-19T05:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Sunday everyone!!!
I am hosting a recipe card swap over on Paper Phenomenon and I wanted to let you know this is going to be an AWESOME swap! Not only are we making the cutest recipe box ever...but, you will have handmade recipe cards and you will collect some wonderful recipes! It's going to be SO MUCH fun, so please hop over, join Paper Phenomenon and check out the swaps and sign up! Here is a picture of the beautiful box that Kathy Orta created for us! I JUST LOVE HER!!!!!

She will be doing a UStream class next week to teach us how to make this GORGEOUS box! Be sure to check it out....you won't want to miss this! :)

Much love,

An Exciting Announcement and some fun stuff - too!!!

2011-06-11T06:30:00.001-07:00

I am so excited!!!!! I am a Guest Designer! :)

2011-06-11T04:32:00.000-07:00

Well, Happy Saturday Everyone!!

I can't begin to tell you how excited I am!!! I woke up this morning to an email

congratulating me for being chosen as a Guest Design Team member!!

I don't have all of the specifics yet, but I just couldn't hold my excitement in any longer!

I will keep you all posted - but for now, WOO HOOOOOOOO!!!!!

Much Love,

Baby Clarissa layout!

2011-06-09T10:59:00.000-07:00

I've mentioned that I am working on Clarissa's scrapbook for one of her graduation gifts.

Here is the layout I did for Baby Clarissa! :) I can't believe that she is grown now!

Here is what I used:

The paper is from Stampin Up

The rose trim is from Close To My Heart

The roses are from I Am Roses

The bling - PRIMA of course! :)

The heart ribbon and the lace beneath was a gift that I received from a RAK!

Hope you like the layout!

Update on US! :)

2011-06-09T06:43:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a while since I have posted anything about us, so I thought I would do that today!
We have been quite busy around our house! Clarissa graduated from high school this year!!!! WOO HOO!!! She graduated a year early! We are SO PROUD of her. Getting her out of the public school system was the best thing we could have done for her!! She did a great job..and graduated with a 3.8 GPA..couldn't ask for better than that! We are planning her graduation party now. I am working on a scrapbook for her and I just can't believe how fast time went by! One minute she is a baby and the next, she is a beautiful young woman! Makes my heart sad, but excited for her at the same time. She is not real sure yet on what she wants to do as far as college and what her major will be, so, I will update you on that as soon as she figures it out! LOL
Jeff is busy as ever! He was promoted shortly after he got back from Afghanistan. He traveled for his job before he was deployed but now, it seems like he is gone WAY TOO MUCH!! The job keeps him very busy...he loves it of course, but we sure miss that he is gone so much!!! But..thankful that he is employed! We put together his home office and it's just beautiful!
Me...well, I am definitely the boring one out of the three of us!! LOL I am home, still not working! I will be honest though, I have loved being home! Hopefully, though, something will break soon and I will get back to working! Not sure what I really want to get into anymore! I am really not impressed with the medical field like I used to be! "THAT" hospital really put a bad taste in my mouth now! But, I am sure I will figure it out!
I have been enjoying doing swaps lately! It sure has been a lot of fun! I love doing the charm and tag swaps! Those are my favorite! I am going to branch out and get involved in some of the others too, but right now...these seem to be my favorites!
Well...I am sure I have ran my mouth enough! LOL I am going to get to working on my daughter's scrapbook! I have SO MUCH work to do on it! I have started from birth until now! My work is cut out for me! I would like to have it done by her party...we will see!! LOL

Much love,

Love, Lace and Roses! :) This was a fun swap

2011-05-28T09:38:00.000-07:00

This was such a fun tag and charm to make! I am really getting addicted to these!:) I made a video about this too, go check out my You Tube channel if you haven't already! :) My You Tube name is 495charlene, I also have a link here on my blog that will take you right to my channel!
Hope everyone is having a great weekend so far! :)

Much love,

NEW & EXCITING THINGS ARE COMING.....

2011-05-09T10:32:00.000-07:00

Hi Bloggers:
It's an exciting time at Tender Heart Designs!!!!
Some new and exciting changes are coming and I hope you all will look forward to being a part of it.
Tender Heart Designs will be opening a brand new "gift shop". I will be listing what will be available in the gift shop..but, for now..I would love to hear your thoughts on a name for my little shop....there will be a gift for the person whose name is chosen..so, spread the word!!!! :)
Have a great day!
Much love,

May "Wild" Charm Swap

2011-05-08T17:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day and More! :)

2011-05-08T10:36:00.000-07:00

Hey Bloggers:

Happy Mother's Day to all of you beautiful mothers out there. It's a beautiful sunny day and I am so happy about that.

How many of you have tried Lindy's Stamp Gang products??? If you have not......YOU NEED TOO!!! I just ordered 2 of the try-me sets and I am blown away! I will be working on a video tomorrow to share these awesome products with you!!! Can't wait for you to give them a try!!! You will LOVE them!!

Have a GORGEOUS day and we will see you tomorrow! Be sure to check out my YouTube channel and subscribe so you don't miss a thing! :)

I have some exciting things coming up soon and I will announce them here and on my YouTube channel!

Much love,

MEMORY PROJECT!!! Day 1

2011-04-26T13:38:00.000-07:00

Today was just perfect! Memory Project Day 1 went AWESOME. The patients loved their new memory books. Some of them even spoke who haven't done so in a very long time!!!!

This was such a blessing!!!!!! Thank you to everyone who contributed to make this such a blessing for so many people!!!

God bless you all,

Memory Project Day!!!!!! I am very excited....

2011-04-26T07:41:00.000-07:00

Well...today is the day!!! I will be leaving here in a couple of hours to meet with the director at the nursing home and visit with the patients for Memory Project Day! I should say ''days". We will be planning a few days for this. We wanted to do a small group at a time so nothing will be overwhelming! Hoping to get some pictures if I can....so, I will be sure to post later! :)

"Anything Goes" Stick Pin swap

2011-04-22T18:34:00.000-07:00

Hey Bloggers:

I am hosting an "Anything Goes" stick pin swap over at Paper Phenomenon. Here is what I came up! I can't wait to see what everyone else sends! :)

Birds & Butterflies Charms

2011-04-22T17:09:00.000-07:00

Hey Bloggers:

These are the charms I did for the Birds & Butterflies charm swap that I joined on the Scrap Beach. I am REALLY addicted to these charms! I am working on another swap for charms as well as a stick pin swap. I will post those pictures soon! :)

Have a wonderful Easter weekend! :)

Much love,

Twilight Pages

2011-04-17T18:27:00.000-07:00

Hey Bloggers:

I wanted to share with you the pages that I did for a swap that I joined over on Scrappy Happiness. We had to pick a couple and a character from Twilight. As you can see, I chose Emmett/Rosalie and Emmett. These are the pages I came up! Clarissa joined the swap too...once she is done with her pages, I will post those too!!

Much love,

Color Me Copic Color Challenge #1

2011-04-16T08:53:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone: Here is my image for the Color Me Copic Challenge #1. I am having a lot of fun so far..these Copic markers are truly an addiction.

50's Sweethearts

2011-04-02T13:30:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Greeting Farm stamps!!! They are just adorable! I am having a lot of fun with my new Copics. These little darlings were a lot of fun to color!

Pansies..from Time Traveler! :)

2011-04-02T11:32:00.000-07:00

Hey Bloggers:

I am really enjoying coloring with my Copics. This is a great stamp that my friend, Time Traveler, shared with me. She wanted to see how I would color it..so, Time..this is for you!!! I hope you like it. It was a great image to color and lots of fun!! Enjoy!

Much love,

April Charm

2011-03-31T12:20:00.000-07:00

Hey Bloggers:

I wanted to post a picture of the charm that I made for a swap that I am in over at Life on the Scrap Beach. This tag is for April and the theme was Diamonds and Daisies!

I have links on my sidebar for Life on the Scrap Beach and for Scrappy Happiness! We have SO MUCH FUN over at Scrappy Happiness. I have made some GREAT friends there! :) So, click on my links and come by and check us out. You won't be sorry!!

Much love,

Karate Ian

2011-03-30T14:49:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone:

Well....my COPICS arrived!! Here is my very first Copic coloring! I just LOVE this image!! I entered this card into a challenge - so, we will see what happens!
I will keep you posted!

EXCITING DAY TODAY!!!!

2011-03-30T06:29:00.000-07:00

For two reasons....Clarissa is signing up for her college classes and......MY COPICS are coming today!!!

I am SO proud of Clarissa!! I can't believe the years have flown by so fast and she graduated from high school ONE YEAR EARLY!! We couldn't be more proud of her! So..today is going to be great for her...bittersweet for me, of course!

Well...I didn't think I would do it and I tried really hard to resist the urge..but, it just didn't work! LOL
Copics are on the way to my house! I ordered a few and then I also joined a Copic Club. So, it will take a little bit of time, but slowly..I will build my collection of these great markers. I am all set for them to arrive..I bought the ink pad that was suggested, ordered some paper (boy..there are so many suggestions as to what paper works best with these markers!!!) and I have some images. So...I will be doing a lot of playing today! :)

I hope your day is going great so far...

Much love,

Happy MONDAY!!! :) (Memory Project Update)

2011-03-28T07:21:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:

I hope you all had a WONDERFUL weekend..I know that I sure did! My husband and daughter spoiled me ROTTEN this weekend. My mother and father in law did too!! It's my birthday today and this past weekend, I spent it with my family! We had a WONDERFUL time and to be honest, it made turning 40 (YES..you heard me..the big 4-0) not so bad! :)

**MEMORY PROJECT UPDATE**
I wanted to let everyone that contributed to the Memory Project know that there will be a delay on the scrapbooking day with the patients. I was informed this morning that the director of my mother's unit is on medical leave right now. I am not sure what is wrong with her but they informed me that she will notify me of her return. We had a tentative time of April to start coordinating group sessions for the scrapbooking day, however, it seems we will be looking at May unless something changes sooner. I will definitely keep my blog updated as I find out more. If you are still making albums, you can hold off until you hear something more here. As of today, 3.28.2011, I have 27 albums in my possession that are boxed and ready to be delivered to the nursing home. Again, we will be breaking these down into about groups of 5. It will make it easier and not so overwhelming in the activity room for all of the residents. If you have any questions or concerns, you know that you can always email me at any time.

Well...just wanted to post an update and say hi. I am having a very slow and restful day....my migraine decided to stop by and say hello on my birthday!! Gotta love that!!! :(

Much love,

Memory Project Update!

2011-03-16T05:45:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:

Sorry I have been so quiet lately...it's been a busy week. I am working on going back to college and Clarissa goes to college today to sign up!! I CANNOT believe my baby girl is going to be a COLLEGE STUDENT! WOW..the time sure has flown by! Amazing!

Anyhow...I have received TWO finished albums and lots of supplies! I have an ordered placed for some chipboard mini albums because for me...it's going to be much easier and quicker! I LOVE the paper bag albums, but for some reason...they just consume my time. I think I am too much of a perfectionist when it comes to them and I keep wanting to pick at them!! LOL I have received several emails that albums are being sent to me, so I am waiting for those to arrive. Hopefully, I will have a good amount of albums in my hands by next week. I will be calling the nursing home and scheduling my first delivery of albums and coordinating with the director so we can contact the first set of family members for their scrapbook day! We will be breaking the days up in groups to make it easier and not so overwhelming for everyone. It's going to be a very exciting time for me! I can't wait to get this moving forward and seeing the responses from the patients. I truly am praying that this makes a difference!

Hope this post finds everyone doing well!! :)

Much love,

Love Layout

2011-03-10T08:14:00.000-08:00

- Crate Paper - Restoration Collection - Lace
- Pink Paislee - Chipboard Alphabet Weathered Wood - Scarlet
- Glitz Design Tulle - Yellow
- Jenni Bowlin - Brown Vellum Butterflies

Butterfly Trio Card

2011-03-10T08:12:00.000-08:00

- Jillibean Soup - Sweet Chestnuts paper
- Stampin Up - Welcome Neighbor Designer Paper Pad
- Jenni Bowlin - Brown Vellum Butterflies

Flower Card

2011-03-10T08:10:00.000-08:00

- Miscellaneous Paper - Hobby Lobby

- Pink Paislee - Bayberry Cottage Twill Trim

- Bella Blvd. - Blooms A Bella - Azzurra

Card with pull-out tag

2011-03-10T08:07:00.000-08:00

- The Girls Paperie - paper
- Craft Tag - #5
- Miscellaneous buttons
- Rafia

Vintage Tag

2011-03-10T08:03:00.000-08:00

The following items were used to make this tag:
- Rhinestone Trim - Black
- Tim Holtz Stamp - Stamper's Anonymous - French Collection
- Glitz Rub-On - Scarlett
- Clay Flowers
- Tim Holtz Distress Inks - Vintage Photo, Peeled Paint, Worn Lipstick
- Ribbon
-Craft Tags - Manila #5

Altered Frame

2011-03-10T07:59:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone:

This is a picture frame I altered. The hearts were cut from metal and then jump rings added to put on the frame. The frame was distressed with Tim Holtz Vintage Photo Distress Ink. I added a little bling to each heart in the corners.

Working away.....

2011-03-09T05:57:00.000-08:00

Hey Bloggers: Just wanted to stop in and say hello. Things are moving along with the memory project. I will be meeting with the floor manager at the nursing home, I am hoping one day next week. I have some albums that should be arriving next week and I have some material coming in to help me finish some albums I have started as well. We want to make the groups small when we are working with the patients and their families..we don't want anything too overwhelming. I am so excited about this.

I hope everyone has been having a great week so far. It's raining here in today and then later, that's supposed to turn to snow!! We have definitely had enough snow..at least in my opinion we have!

I will be posting another video soon with some more updates! Have a great day...and a wonderful rest of your week.

Much love,

Memory Project Haul and Product Donations! :)

2011-03-05T08:33:00.000-08:00

Here you go......can you believe all of this wonderful stuff??? I am so excited to start working on the albums! I have placed an order for some chipboard albums. I received a GREAT deal on them and they will help me speed the process up a bit...I am just not really good at the paper bag albums yet...it takes me some time...ok, A LOT of time to get those done! LOL

As stuff keeps coming in, I will keep posting videos. I hope you guys are enjoying seeing what's going on. :)

Have a great weekend!

Much love,

Albums are coming in and so are supplies!!! :)

2011-03-05T07:55:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone:

Here is a video of the first set of albums I have received for the Memory Album Project! They are beautiful!! Enjoy....

I have also received monetary donations which I received products today from those donations. I will be posting a "Memory Haul" video today too, at some point! :)

God bless you all and I hope your weekend is going AWESOME!

Much love,

Let the THANK YOU cards begin!!

2011-03-01T11:49:00.000-08:00

The fun is starting with the Memory Book Project! My heart is SO thankful to all of you!! Your generosity and kindness is beyond words.

So....I have started working on thank you cards for everyone that donates to this project! This is my first thank you card that I will be mailing out tomorrow!

Hope you guys like it! :)

God bless all of you!!!

Much love,

My first swap and info about the memory books! :)

2011-02-22T12:39:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone: Here is a video about my first swap and some information on the memory books! In the video, I mention Life on The Scrap Beach...click on the link on the left hand side of my blog to join!!! You won't be sorry!!!

Follow my blog!!!! (BLOG CANDY GIVEAWAY when I reach 100 followers)

2011-02-18T09:15:00.000-08:00

Hi there everyone:

I am so glad you made it over to my blog!
Don't forget, while you're here..be sure to sign up as a follower and make sure you leave me a comment on this post- so you can be added to the blog candy giveaway!!!!

Be sure to check back often....soon there will be videos, projects and all kinds of interesting stuff posted here!!!

Thanks for stopping by!!

Much love,

Do you love blog candy????

2011-02-18T05:51:00.000-08:00

OF COURSE YOU DO!!! :)

Then hop on over to Linda's Crafty Creations and enter to win her blog candy!!! Have fun.....

Make A Difference!

2011-02-15T19:40:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, my mother has Alzheimer's disease! This disease is horrible! It takes everything away from it's victims as well as from the family members of those victimized by this horrific disease!

My mother's condition has taken a severe turn. She is now in a wheelchair and she no longer has the desire to speak or communicate. Stimulation is the best source of help when this stage is effecting the patient. Pictures, memories...these things are what is used to spark stimulation in the Alzheimer's patient at this stage in the disease!

I want to make a difference, I want to feel that I can contribute to my mother in some way to help her through this horrible disease. So, after discussing this outcome with the director of my mother's unit, I am going to make her a memory book! They use pictures to stimulate the brain and memory. What better pictures for an Alzheimer's patient to look at than those of happy times in their lives! There are 60+ people on my mother's unit who are going through this very same thing! I HATE THIS! I hate to see how this disease has no mercy and just attacks! So many families are going through the same exact hurt that I am and it breaks my heart! I am on a mission to do my best at making a memory book for all of these families! Thank God for good friends - near and far - that are willing and wanting to be a part of this difference!

HOW CAN I HELP? You ask? Send me an email...if you have supplies that you no longer use that you want to donate, if you would like to make a monetary donation for the purchase of albums and supplies, if you are a scrapbook company and would like to donate supplies or retired items, PLEASE...contact me. Any and all help is appreciated! I have received offers of completed albums as well. Even if you can only make a page or two - that's great too! My goal is to make mini albums, these are easier to work with for the patients. Nothing large and bulky. Your help could brighten the eyes of an Alzheimer's patient and set the heart of the family member at peace just to see their loved one smile! Even if it's just for a moment!

God bless you!

Much love,

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

2011-02-14T10:09:00.000-08:00

It's my favorite day!!!! I LOVE Valentine's Day!!! Happy Valentine's Day to all of you and I love you, Jeffrey and Clarissa!!!!!! You both are the best Valentine's Day gift ever!!!!!

Clarissa & Her guitar! :)

2011-01-27T10:32:00.000-08:00

FIVE days until Hawaii!!!!!!!!!

2011-01-27T06:37:00.000-08:00

I can't believe in just FIVE short days, we will be heading to Hawaii!!! This has been a life long dream for me!!! I am so excited.

Clarissa and I are going shopping today for a few things for the trip. I have received quite a few emails from my blog friends that you guys would like for us to "video blog" our journey! So, I decided that today, while Clarissa and I are out and about, we will test it out and see what we come up with. We probably wouldn't be posting any of the videos while we are away because we definitely need to be spending the time with each other, but when we get home, we could edit and post the videos! I think it's a great idea and I think it would really be fun. So...watch for later, we will post our video of our adventures today! :)

Change of Direction

2011-01-25T03:29:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone: I hope this post finds everyone doing well!! We are doing ok over here on this side of the world. We have had a lot of things going on....new carpet on the second level, moving of my craft room, CLARISSA GRADUATED FROM HIGH SCHOOL, JEFF GOT A PROMOTION and HAWAII IS LESS THAN 7 DAYS AWAY!!!!! YAHOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Great Stuff!

I have also had some interesting, trying situations come about as well...you know me, nothing is EVER easy in my world..LOL It's always a challenge! As many of you know and some may not...my mother is very sick with the horrific disease of Alzheimer's. She is in a nursing home. I have had some TRYING CHALLENGES with the nursing home and getting her insurance and financial situations taken care of. It truly has been a struggle. My most recent issue with the finances is my biggest challenge to date. Of course, I am not going to wimp out...I have never been a quitter - but, I have to say that this one has really taken it's toll. I have been informed that I will be unable to go back to school (not permitted to obtain financial aid) and I have also been told that if I work outside of the home (a regular job that I am listed as an employee) there will be percentages of my pay that will be garnished and directed to the nursing home. The part that confuses me the most is that my mother is covered under THREE INSURANCE PLANS!! The nursing home is receiving MORE THAN enough money to cover her care! They also receive her Social Security checks as well! HOWEVER, I am able to be self-employed and that money cannot be touched. I do not know the logic behind this..but, I am not going to question it. I have been doing my research and working really hard to figure out some options. Since you know how much I love stamping and scrapbooking, I am of course going to explore opportunities of working that angle and I have some pretty good ideas that I will be rolling out when we get back from Hawaii. I have been receiving quite a few emails from you guys about offering kits and doing video tutorials online. I LOVE this idea and I have been working on finding ways to make that happen. The only challenge that I forsee at the the present time is finding a way to be able to get the best deal on the products that I can pass on great savings to you guys in the kits. So, hopefully, by the time we get back, I will have found those answers and will be able to get started on that right away.

I will be taking my computer with my to Hawaii. I won't be doing much communication as this time is SO needed for me and my family to relax and spend some uninterrupted quality time together - but, in the evenings, I will be posting pictures.

I hope to get at least one more post in before we leave.

Much love,

BUSY!!!!

2011-01-18T04:35:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone: WOW...have we been busy!!! So much has been going on at our house recently and it seems like time has just been taking off!!! I can't believe we are already at the middle of January! Unreal!

We just had our second floor completely carpeted. It was installed on Friday! What a JOB! My poor husband had to remove all of the furniture from the second floor and he brought it down to the first floor. Our house has been upside down for days! Well, finally...we are getting everything back in order. He worked all weekend to get all of the heavy stuff back in order and then he had to fly out on business. I truly don't know how he does it. With all of the furniture back in place, I can put everything else in order. He even painted the hallway and the stairway as well. It sure is beautiful.

Remember my video on my scrap room??? Well, guess what?? I am MOVING my room!!! Can you believe that??? OH MY GOODNESS! With some recent changes with Jeff's job...he needs a more private home office...so, he is getting the basement office and I am moving to the second floor! LOL So, on top of getting everything back in order from the carpet installation...I am moving my scrap space again. So, this week, while he is away on business, I will be packing up.

Due to my having to move my room, I will be delayed on all of my plans that I had for starting my videos. I have SO many fun ideas coming up, so it will definitely be worth the wait...I promise!

Hope the New Year has been treating all of you well so far!

See you soon....

Finally......

2011-01-10T07:08:00.000-08:00

the holidays are officially behind us!! Thank goodness...that's always so much work...well worth it..but, still a lot of work! :) I hope everyone is having a great start to the new year.

We are doing some MAJOR renovations to the house! New carpet on the second level and the stairs...boy, what a job!!! Jeff just painted everything upstairs...it looks BEAUTIFUL!

So...if I am not posting regularly - you can guess why! We are going to be super busy this week and then we are getting ready for HAWAII!!!! Oh...we can't wait.

Take care and have a wonderful week!!!

Much love,

It's a NEW YEAR.....new beginnings!!!

2011-01-04T05:01:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that 2010 is finally over?? I sure can't..but, I have to admit, I am SO VERY GLAD that it is. I sure had a lot of up's and down's in 2010. It's really tough when I look back on everything that has happened the past couple of years, actually...it amazes me how I have made it through those things. I know that they say "what doesn't kill you, makes you stronger"...wow...I am not really sure about that. The past few months have been a real struggle for me. I can't seem to get out of the slump that I am in. Finding a job and figuring out what I want to do has been a real battle for me. I can't seem to get myself motivated to find that perfect job. I know that nothing is perfect, but I do believe that you have to be happy doing what you do and I am just not there. All of the life changing events that I have been through have really done a number on me. It seems to have brought me down on so many levels. My self-esteem is not the best, motivation and confidence is pretty much gone. SO...in saying all of that yucky stuff....I am doing my best to focus on making 2011 my NEW BEGINNING!! A new me....a new attitude toward finding that new job! Building back my self-esteem and becoming a stronger woman. Just being happy!!! It seems that every time I turned around, there was always something I had to worry about....I am really tired of that! I am sick of focusing on negative things and not being able to be free and happy! I just want to focus on my family and our happiness and not worry about anything else...for once! We have so many opportunities that are opening up to us and I want us to jump right in and take advantage of everything that we want! I hope you are going to do that too. Don't let anything stop you this year. Make 2011 YOUR YEAR!! Be happy, love yourself and make this the best year ever!!!

All my love.......

Merry Christmas!!! and Happy New Year

2010-12-20T08:52:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone:
Can you believe that it's almost Christmas???? I truly cannot!! But, I am so very excited that it is! :) All of the Christmas shopping is done and I am actually going to wrap presents as soon as I am done with this post! I am going to be so happy to sit around the fireplace and open presents with my family and thank God for His ULTIMATE GIFT to us. I am also very happy that Jeff is home safe with us and we all made it through that journey!!! Truly..a wonderful end to a challenging year! Looking forward to 2011 and hoping it brings some easier journeys and health and happiness..not just for us..but for all of you as well!!!
Merrry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

SCARLET LIME - Favorite #2

2010-12-09T04:59:00.000-08:00

This is the best kit club EVER!! I absolutely LOVE it. The price is AWESOME and what you get is UNBELIEVABLE. There's a link on the right side of my blog....go check it out...NOW...HURRY! :)

BECKY HIGGINS - Favorite #1

2010-12-08T05:23:00.000-08:00

SO...my first favorite addition to the blog...BECKY HIGGINS..of course!!

I absolutely LOVE her! I have been a faithful follower of her blog..for..well, let's just say forever!!

I am so excited and blessed to be able to be a very small part of Becky's 12 Days of Christmas that she has going on her blog right now. I was reading her blog and a follower posted how they wished that she had transcripts for her videos since they were deaf and unable to hear the content. I was so excited to shoot Becky an email and see if I could help out. I love medical transcription and I just recently decided to go back to it and when I read this need..I just felt like it fit! I was just recently blessed with the opportunity to do medical transcription in my home again by a wonderful woman....JODEE..thank you! :) and I thought to myself..what better way to express how thankful and grateful I am for this opportunity to work at home again than to "pay it forward" and bless someone else!
So....I would love for you to be blessed as well....hop on over to Becky's blog and take a visit! Follow her for her 12 Days of Christmas...just click her button on the right hand side....you will be SO GLAD you did....she is WONDERFUL!!!

My favorites.....

2010-12-08T05:10:00.000-08:00

So...I was doing a little "dusting" on my blog this morning to get rid of some things I no longer wanted and decided that I am going to start sharing with you some of my favorite sites and favorite people in the industry. I can't begin to tell you how relieved I am and excited to get back to enjoying just scrapbooking...cardmaking and any of the other crafts that I used to enjoy.
So...be on the look out for some new little additions to my blog...I hope you will find some great places to visit and meet some wonderful people along the way!!! Here we go......

So PROUD...and a change of plans....

2010-12-06T09:39:00.000-08:00

This weekend was great. Jeff was given his decoration for his time in Afghanistan. What a wonderful ceremony. I am so very proud of him.

During the weekend, I had a lot of time to myself while Jeff was at the base doing his thing! I really started thinking about the MLM stuff and all of my effort trying to get things figured out and I have finally made a decision!! FORGET IT!!!!! LOL I am not going to continue putting so much effort into making yet another MLM work. I have come to the conclusion...unless you get in on the ground level of these things...you can forget becoming successful unless you invest a TON of money and hold out for quite a few years to get there. AND..the biggest thing of all.....this has made me lose the fun and desire of scrapbooking and I miss having that fun and excitement. I LOVE working on making videos and I just LOVE sharing my love of scrapbooking and even other crafts that I enjoy. So, with all of this said...I am going back to having fun with this instead of trying to make it something more, that is DEFINITELY no fun! I LOVE so many different products, I would be cheating myself and all of you by just sticking to one brand!! Now, that's no fun!! LOL So...I am going to be making videos...you will be seeing ALL kinds of products...not from just one company but from everywhere!!! All of the things I love and enjoy...and that will make me very happy and I hope you will find the joy in it, too!!! On top of this change...I have also changed my career choice. I landed a job in medical transcription and the best part...I will be back to doing it out of my home!!! I am so THANKFUL and BLESSED!! And finally.....I am changing ME! I am ALWAYS the one that tries to fix things...or make excuses for others poor behavior and putting the pieces back together to make everyone happy!!! NOT ANYMORE!!!! I will continue to be the best that I can be...I will continue to do for others as I wish they would do for me. I will work hard at thinking of others' needs before my own. And most of all, I will do my best to live the way that God wants me to and trust in the fact that as long as I do that...everything else will be JUST FINE! :) Much love - xoxo

Mixed Emotions......

2010-12-02T07:32:00.000-08:00

Ok...well, not really! LOL And if I am having mixed emotions...it's no bad emotions!!! LOL Excitement, Anxiety, Joy, yes, maybe a little fear..but, not in a bad way! I am probably jumping the gun a little bit on even posting this...because I am not going to tell you what's going on....I can't!! Not yet...but, things could change soon...and it would be quite a huge change...but, all in all....I am sure it would be for the best. We have all of our emotions going and we definitely are putting the whole situation in God's hands..because through Him ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE. So, for now....we are going to hold on to that!! :) Still no package! Can you believe that??? Maybe today! I am working on a simple card today for my chemo patient. I have to mail a package out to her before we leave this weekend. I will post a picture of the card! Hoping it turns out cute! :) Hope you are all having a great day!! Until next time....

Nothing yet.....

2010-11-30T15:39:00.000-08:00

Still waiting on my goodies!!! I was hoping they would be here by Monday...but, NOPE! Nothing yet!!! So...I have been doing a lot of research on design teams and entering layouts...publications submissions..etc. Any of you done this? If so, how did it go? Do you like it? Is it worth the time and expense you put out? I would love to hear your thoughts. I have found quite a few open calls and I have been looking at the requirements. Quite a few things that you have to do, but I have no problem with that...I just need to get some work/art up on my blog....so..my goal will be to start working on that and then hopefully, by the first of the year..I will be ready to "jump in" and start submitting. In the mean time, I would love to hear from all of you about your experience with this stuff...... Looking forward to hearing from you!

Stuff....

2010-11-29T08:04:00.000-08:00

Ok...the Christmas decorations are almost complete. We just have to decorate the large tree in the living room and Clarissa needs to do the village and we will be all set up! Jeff did all of the decorating outside...it looks great! The house is nice and cozy when everything is turned on...I just love it! Today, I hope...I will be getting some great stuff from Two Peas in a Bucket. I am also hoping my Snowman stamp set comes by Basic Grey! I will share all of those goodies in a video once everything arrives. TIM HOLTZ!!!!! Oh my gosh...this is my new found love!!! His products are simply AMAZING!!! I am watching his demos this morning and there hasn't been one thing I haven't LOVED!! This is not a good thing...OH SANTA...please be good to me this year!! :)

SNOWMEN!!!! I LOVE them!!! :)

2010-11-26T04:38:00.000-08:00

If you know me....you know that I LOVE snowmen!!! I collect them! :) Well...I just came across the BEST stamp set EVER by Basic Grey!!!! Tell me this isn't fun and cute!!!!???? I should be getting this fun little set any day now!! And you guessed it...there will definitely be a video! :) Happy Black Friday! :)

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2010-11-23T08:04:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone has a WONDERFUL Thanksgiving week!! I will be posting after this week is over!! We have so much to be thankful for this year...well, every year...but, this year.....We are so thankful that Jeff is home and we are all together as a family!!! Thank God for all of the blessings we have - friends and family!!! God bless you all!! :)

SICK DAY!

2010-11-21T10:25:00.000-08:00

YUCK!! Today is not a good one for me! I am laying in bed with my laptop and my dog. I do have a load of laundry in the wash, so at least I am accomplishing a little something. This week is going to be a busy one for me, but I am hoping to make at least one post. I will try to throw in a video if I can....but, we will see! I hope everyone has a WONDERFUL Thanksgiving!! We have so much to be thankful for in our home!! What a great time of the year!

KIT DAY!!!!!

2010-11-12T05:44:00.000-08:00

The BOX is on the way!!!!!

2010-11-10T06:59:00.001-08:00

You know I have been tracking my package from Stampin' Up this morning!!! :) YES....it is out for delivery!!!! I am all set and just waiting, so once it gets to my door......I will post the video! :) Hope you are having a great day!! :) See you soon!

First Video!!!!! - What a newbie I am!! LOL

2010-11-04T09:14:00.000-07:00

OK! So, it's not as fancy as all of the other wonderful videos I admire, but - I am well on my way! I will definitely be seeking out the help of my fabulously techy daughter and doing tons of research on-line! I will be a pro before you know it! :)

But, for now....enjoy my learning curve and don't be laughing at me too hard!! Leave me a comment in my comment box located at the right of my blog or shoot me an email!! I would love to hear your thoughts!! Have a great day!

Bittersweet Memories Bring a Fresh Start...

2010-11-02T16:47:00.000-07:00

I took this picture while we were up North in Mackinac. I was going through pictures today and this one really stuck out to me. To me, it's a sign of a new day, fresh beginnings. I have so many things that have brought me to the point that I am today. A couple of days ago, I was sitting outside and just enjoying the fresh air and the peace and quiet that you can find sitting outside. The relaxing state that outside brings is amazing. It was so quiet and peaceful, yet my mind was racing in so many directions. It brought me back to so many memories...some good and some not so good. I examined all of those thoughts and truly, it made me wonder how in the world I have survived some of the things that have happened through the years. If not for God's grace...I definitely know that I wouldn't have been able to come through them. So, this beautiful picture is an awesome reminder...new things are to come...a brighter day is always around the corner...joy comes in the morning!! As much as those past...bittersweet memories will always be there.....the sun rise of a new day will always bring joy and new adventures and happiness. Thank God for a new day and thank God for the bittersweet memories that continue to make me stronger and remind me that there is always a need to hold on to my faith....we are not invincible - but our God sure is...and He can bring us through anything!! I am so thankful for that!

Which Way Do I Go??

2010-10-27T04:04:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt like your standing in front of a place like this?? WOW...I had to laugh when I found this picture, but in the next breath...I had to say, YEP! This is exactly how I feel. Confused, scared and just uncertain. I have NO idea, at this point in time, which direction I should move in and let me tell you...that is NOT a comfortable feeling. Over the past few years, so many things have happened. Some good, some sad, some even horrible...but, in my heart, I know all of these things....good or bad, are making me the person that I am. However, it doesn't make any of it easier. I never thought that I would be to a point in my life that I wasn't working and unable to figure out what I wanted to do...but, I AM...I HATE this! On top of that...finding work isn't easy! There is nothing out there and that scares me even more. I have always been a take-charge kind of person, but for some reason...at this time and decision in my life..I am at a stand still. I guess we all come to that point at one time or another...I guess now..it's just my turn. Hope this doesn't last too long!

Mackinac Island and the Cabin.....

2010-10-20T05:12:00.000-07:00

WOW....it's been a while - so sorry about that. I have been enjoying spending the much needed time with my hubby and daughter!!! My surprise get away was great!! We stayed on Mackinac Island!!! We had such a great time. We spent the first night at the cabin and then drove up to the island the next day. We stay on the island for two nights and then we came back and stay at the cabin again. It was a great time together. We really needed that! The sunsets were beautiful and so were the Fall colors. We really went at the perfect time.

NOW BACK TO REALITY!!!! Jeff is back to work full swing...he started back on Monday! I truly HATE that he is away, but so glad to know that he is finally home! Clarissa is moving full swing on her school work....some exciting times for her!!! She just amazes me!! I am back to looking for a job and getting ready to return to school in January! I can't believe the holidays are almost here! It's starting to get pretty chilly here in Michigan....but, I LOVE the Fall..it's my favorite time of year!!!

WE ARE OUTTA HERE!! :)))))

2010-09-30T10:08:00.000-07:00

We are packing up the car now and heading out the door!!!!! I am SO EXCITED...I have no clue where we are going!! Hopefully, I will be able to post tonight!!! See you soon!!!

Heading NORTH!!!! SURPRISE!!

2010-09-30T05:29:00.000-07:00

Well, in just a few short hours....me and my hubby will be heading north!!! Today starts my surprise getaway with Jeff. I have no idea where we are going, but I am super excited! Of course, my camera is coming with me....but, I am also going to bring my FLIP! I am going to do a lot of experimenting with my camera and with some video, so when we get home, I will share all of my fun with you.

Remember, before Clarissa and I left to go get Jeff I told you that I was working on some things behind the scenes.....crafting fun, of course and some exciting news!! Well, everything is coming together and when I return from this weekend, I will be close to having everything in order to announce. I am very excited and even a little scared..but, I guess that's to be expected. Taking a huge leap of faith but I am confident that it's going to be a great success.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and if I can, I will try to post, but it DEFINITELY won't be a priority this weekend!!! :) I hope you understand! :)))

What a party!!!!!!!!!

2010-09-28T05:49:00.000-07:00

This picture says so much!!! It was UNREAL the amount of love that was shown to my wonderful husband at his Welcome Home party this last week. We truly have the best friends in the world. Their support has been wonderful during this time that Jeff was away. I can truly say, I don't know what I would have done without my friends during this time. I will never forget their support and what they have done for us.

The party was so much fun. Of course, the wonderful husband and father that Jeff is...he couldn't go through the night without doing something for us....he gave Clarissa a $200 gas card, 10 free car wash cards, bought her brand new tires for her car and got her oil changed!! He wasn't able to be here for her 16th birthday, so he wanted to surprise her with something...he truly out did it...as always! :) He also missed our 5th year anniversary, he surprised me another band for my wedding ring!!!! It is ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL!!!! We leave this Thursday for a long weekend surprise trip for me...I have no idea where we are going. Then, when we get back, we are taking Clarissa to Halloweekends at Cedar Point and then we are also planning a Kalahari trip. BUT, most importantly....we are planning our AWESOME family trip to Hawaii!!! I still can't believe that we are GOING TO HAWAII!!!! Jeff's company surprised us with this trip!! It has been a dream for us for quite some time to go to Hawaii and now we are!!! Just awesome! :) We are hoping to go over Thanksgiving, but we have to make some phone calls and see if that time is available. So many exciting things coming up!!! WE are so happy to be back together as a family!!! Life is good!!!!

WE ARE GOING TO HAWAII

2010-09-23T12:39:00.000-07:00

I can't even believe it!!! Jeff's company blessed us with an all expenses paid trip to Hawaii!!!!!!!!

We can leave whenever we want!!! We are making plans now.....I will keep you informed!!!!

HOME AT LAST.............

2010-09-11T14:30:00.000-07:00

We love him so much.........he is FINALLY home and we are so very happy!

WOOOOO HOOOOOOOOO

2010-09-03T09:39:00.001-07:00

Seriously....can I be any happier??? NOPE...sure don't think so!!!! LOL This little flower shows you how happy my heart is!!!!

I can't begin to express to my friends - new and old - how thankful I am for each and every one of you!!! The support that you have given me - phone calls, emails, cards, letters, I can't begin to express my most heartfelt thanks!

I know I have said it a lot..but, this has been SO HARD! Emotions are so mixed when you are going through a deployment. One minute, you try to be happy and the next minute, you could have your head stuffed into a pillow and balling your eyes out. This has been a crazy ride for me. But, enough of the negative side of things....I have gained so much!! WONDERFUL friends...I am so thankful for them!!! A heart full of undying love for my husband!!!! Not that I didn't have it before but OH HOW that has grown. I love him so very much!!! A closer relationship with my daughter - she is the most beautiful girl in the world!!! She is my pride and joy!! I love her beyond measure!!

In a few short days, Clarissa and I get to hop in the truck and head out of here to pick Jeff up!!! We are so very happy and can't wait to wrap our arms around him and never let him go!!

Forgive me if I am absent for a little while, but know that Clarissa, Jeff and I will be spending some much awaited quality time together!! I will do my best to throw some sneak-peek pictures when I can!!

Goodbye for now!!!

Much love~

2010-08-29T04:33:00.001-07:00

NOT MUCH LONGER NOW!!!!!!!!!! I can't believe it!!! He will be home soon...the countdown is on!!!!!!!

2010-08-23T05:13:00.000-07:00

Happy doesn't even begin to describe how I feel!! :) I still can't believe in only 17 days I will be reunited with my love!!!!! Happy....happy......HAPPY!!!!!

Preparing for his homecoming.......and other stuff!

2010-08-14T05:32:00.000-07:00

One thing that I don't like to admit, but it is very true.....is that I am a MAJOR PROCRASTINATOR! Well, let me explain.....at some things! If I am working on a work related project...then I am ON IT! I won't stop until it's done and move on to the next thing. BUT...when it comes to cleaning or other household stuff...yea, I will put that off as long as I can. It's time to get my butt in gear! Trust me, I am not complaining this time. In a few short weeks....JEFF WILL BE HOME!!!! So, today..I am sitting down with my laptop and my notebook and planning out the next few weeks so I am sure to get everything done and not leave anything out. Clarissa and I will be leaving the night before Jeff's flight comes in. I am excited about that. It will be nice to spend the time with her. Since she got her car and she is now working...she is a busy girl. She has had a great Summer and has kept herself very well occupied! This past week she finished up being a crew leader for Vacation Bible School. She really enjoyed working with the little kids. She is GREAT with little ones.

Through this deployment, I really haven't focused on scrapbooking or card making too much! I am sorry for those of you that have been following my blog. But, I have been working behind the scenes and I have some plans in the works for upcoming posts. I have been working with making videos and organizing all of the projects that I want to make videos for. I have been doing a lot of research on monthly kit clubs and I can't wait to share my reviews on my favorite! I am pretty sure it's quite obvious which is my favorite...but, more about that later! I have been going back and forth on what I want my focus to be...if I truly want to dedicate my site to one company of products or give that up and focus on all of the companies that I enjoy! So....that decision is not yet decided, but soon I hope! I also feel bad because my posts have been so random and definitely not consistent. Deployment can really do a number on you! Your emotions can go from one way to the next in a matter of seconds. It's been an interesting, sad, depressing, overwhelming ride...but, I have come out of it a different person...new, more focused and definitely more appreciative of life, family and love!

SO, to wrap it up......the next few weeks...I will be busy...excited and overjoyed! I will definitely be absent from here. I am sure you all can understand...Jeff has been gone from us for about 8 months....we have missed him terribly. We will be focused on the three of us and enjoying our much needed time together. Not to say I won't throw in a sneak peek of what is going on...I will. But, nothing will be consistent and there will be nothing craft related for a while. As of right now...the grand opening is tentatively scheduled for November 1st. New and exciting things and lots of changes. It will be fun. Watch for it....videos, my new adventures, product giveaways, recipes, etc. Lots of fun things to come!! But, for now....I have lots of work to do.....don't forget about me!

Much love ~ xoxo

Class of 2011 ~Amber~

2010-08-08T12:09:00.001-07:00

When you have a client as gorgeous as this one.......an awesome photo shoot isn't hard at all!!! Thank you, Amber for allowing me to spend this special time with you!!! Best of luck to you ~ may all of your dreams come true~

Are you ready to ROCK???? 2 Pedal Getaway will take you there!

2010-08-07T20:16:00.000-07:00

These guys are awesome!! Great time shooting these photos!!! I must say....I was totally diggin' the tattoos!! As you can tell......they are pretty "sweeeet"!! Good luck guys......hope you go far!

Preparing to Welcome Home a HERO!!!

2010-07-28T14:25:00.000-07:00

My Hero!!! That's for sure!

Clarissa and I have waited for this day to come for so long! Many times over the past few months we couldn't even see the light at the end of the tunnel - and now...we are only a little over 4 weeks away from welcoming our hero home!

It's funny how the past few days all I can think about is what I am going to do when I see him for the first time. Just thinking about it brings me to tears! My heart leaps for joy when I think about it for too long! :) It's going to be a very special moment! I know that without a doubt.

What an experience this has been...but, now that it's so close to the end...I can see how we have changed as a family. It's made us strong! It's made our love even deeper and there is nothing in this world that can come between that love!! ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!! We are rock solid and I am so thankful for that!!!

Well, I am off for now.....I have A LOT of planning to do!!

Winding down...........

2010-07-20T04:07:00.001-07:00

The most amazing thing.....is under 6 weeks and Jeff will finally be home! I can't believe that we are so close to this being over. I am so proud of him. This has been huge for us. We have learned so much! It truly has changed us all and it has definitely been for the better. I have learned so much about myself. I have learned so much about others. Some things good and some not so much, but good or bad...it's been enlightening and necessary! I would have never thought the love that Jeff and I share could get any stronger, but it has grown every single day! The journey has been amazing, long and difficult....but through the tears and countless hours of prayer, we have conquered what seemed impossible and we will be stronger for it! Thank you, God for protecting my wonderful husband and for giving Clarissa and I the strength to hang on until our hero is back home! :)

Cherish your loved ones.....live each day like it's your last and never lose sight of your dreams!