The Storytellers Spot

It's a Template Tuesday from Andrea!

2008-04-08T11:54:00.001-04:00

Lots of New Releases Today in the GDS Store! Brag book templates from Shana, Wonderful new Page Kits from both Christy and Maria and Lots of new Commercial Use Products too!

Check Em Out HERE!

Commercial Use Products Just Released at GDS!

Here

Many More in the GDS Store !

A Template from Andrea for us today! Yahoo!!

Happy Tuesday Everyone...

Thanks so much Andrea!

Monday... Monday....

2008-04-07T11:13:00.000-04:00

What a great day for a beautiful quickpage from Verena!

Made from her wonderful Romantic Season Page Kit

Thanks Verena!

Happy Saturday! Baseball Practice Here We Come!

2008-04-05T07:38:00.003-04:00

Ok.. so we have done dance, gymnastics, swimming, soccer, piano, t-ball and indoor soccer. You'd think I'd be able to get through this in my sleep. Why is it so difficult? Hannah's father and I are divorced and now... lol..he's coaching... fun fun!

The things we endure for the love of our children. Here I go, put on a happy face :)

Hope you have a wonderful Saturday!

Isn't this a wonderful Mini from Maria! Love these rich colors!

Thanks Maria!

Happy Saturday Everyone!

*image is clickable*

Happy Friday

2008-04-04T08:12:00.001-04:00

This week sure went by fast. Liz is well and back scrapping... She even did a layout!

Here's a very useful classic from Jessica! It's all your very basics in Silver!

image is clickable

Thanks Jessica for this useful little goodie! Check out Jessica's New Products and Color Challenge too!

Happy Friday Everyone!

Thursdays Fun!

2008-04-03T12:21:00.000-04:00

Check out the GDS Daily Download today from our newest Designer Christy Skaggs!

This is an add on to her Last of Winter Page Kit and it's free for you today!

You Can Get it Here!

Don't forget to check out all of Christy's wonderful products in her store which

are on Special 25% off for her Grand Opening!

Tuesdays... Get Well Soon Liz

2008-04-02T08:30:00.003-04:00

One of our beloved members Liz has been very ill. She had an allergic reaction to medication at the dentist which has sent her to the hospital and through a horrible ordeal. Thankfully she has taken a turn for the better now! Here's shout out to Liz... Still praying for you Lady and am so happy you are doing better!

Here's a layout CharliesNana made dedicated to Liz

The GDS April Collab Kit is Here!

Spend $10 bucks in the store and get the collab kit for free!

Over 30 papers & 60 elements, an alpha, template set and quick page!

April Digiscrapping Classes are also open for enrollment!

WEDNESDAY'S DAILY DOWNLOAD Another Great Alpha from Scrapkut!

You Can Get it Here!

More on the Dance

2008-03-31T08:11:00.004-04:00

Thought I'd share a few pics from past shows

Hannah's the one pushing the cart

As a Newsy

In the Finale in her "gown"

Beautiful Sunday & the Diva!

2008-03-30T12:46:00.004-04:00

Well we made it to dance again today. Yesterday Hannah was told she would be a "red" fish for the show in May.... Well, my little diva of a child was crushed..she wanted to be a blue fish (no girly girly stuff for her these days) - So she give me that, Mother, be my hero and save me from this horror" broken hearted protest so what do I do? Oh yeah, I act like the overly rediculous Mother of the Diva child and ask the dance teacher if there is any flexability on the "color"... cringe cringe! Low and behold, I'm a hero... Dance Teacher lined up all the kids, worked out the colors visually and changed Hannah to Turquoise! I know, I know.. terribly indulgent..but hey, a Diva only lives once!

Here's the Daily Download for Sunday at GDS..It's from Shana! Thanks Shana!

Snag it Here!

Saturday's Scoop

2008-03-29T08:45:00.004-04:00

Thanks for your opinions on the blogger vs. wordpress issue... looks like I'm gonna be forced to be familiar with both, which seems ok with you all's encouragement. Guess I'll live...LOL!

Hannah was suppose to start baseball today, but it was cancelled due to it being too cold and windy. Yaaaay! No freezing our buns off today :) Of course there's dance workshop at 10 am so the fun never ceases anyways... not complaining... I love it when we get there and I get to watch her doing her dancing...it's the getting out the door that makes it so stressful!

Anyways, hope your day is not as stressful and warm and beautiful!

And here's a little something to get you started... Check out Helen's Daily Download for today...
It's Called Lavender Fields Mini

You Can Get it Here!

Blogger or Wordpress?

2008-03-28T09:29:00.004-04:00

I've always used blogger and now we have gone to wordpress on the site, so I'm learning wordpress now. Do you have a preference? I'm actually getting the hang of it now and it seems pretty user friendly. :)

TGIF Everyone~! Oh and here's my newest product, April's Romance. Boy was it ever fun making this one... much needed creative therapy! Ever have those kinds of days?

and since April's Romance is going to be the featured kit for the upcoming Quick Page Exchange... here's the posting bonus for participating

And here's a few example layouts

Thanks for looking and TGIF!

Meet My... Princess Challenge

2008-03-27T09:06:00.002-04:00

If you haven't checked it out yet, now's the time! I have a new Meet My... challenge running at GDS! You Can check it out here!

Don't forget to snag today's daily download from Leslie Emery... She really creates the cutest products!

GDS Thursday Daily Download!

Hope you're having a fabulous Thursday!

Here's the Very First Daily Download from Scrapkut!

2008-03-26T09:34:00.003-04:00

Isn't it nice. Such a great all-purpose kinda alpha!

Snag it here!

Bringing back the GDS Daily Download!

2008-03-25T16:51:00.004-04:00

What an exciting thing! Seems like it's been so long since we did the daily downloads...and yes, they drove me crazy and yes, sometimes I hated the program...but today, I'm loving it again. It's great to see some of the past community members stop in..it's great to look forward to finding out what the next Designer in the rotation will create... it's just plain ole' great!

You can snag it here!

Home for the Day....

2008-03-23T07:36:00.002-04:00

So much to do today. What is it about the holidays that make us grow so crazy stressing ourselves out? And then you turn around and it's all over and we are sitting around wondering where did the day go? Hey, I guess I'll take it. Any opportunity to stop the world and spend the day with family is a good good thing! Hope you enjoy the day, no matter what you're doing :)

Here's my contribution to the Scrap Now for Autism Charity Kit. I was just happy to be doing something. I hate the helplessness associated with watching others go through this.

Happy Easter Weekend!

2008-03-22T07:31:00.006-04:00

Lot's of fun happening... You Can Check it out here!

What a week! So glad it's the weekend. Can't wait to have all the kids home for a visit tomorrow. It's hard when they grow up and move out..Much harder than I ever imagined it would be. Then again, no more dirty clothes, dirty dishes, fighting, loud crazy music -- who am I kidding, between Hannah and Kristin, none of that has changed... I'd take it all again with the boys just to have them home. Alright, enough sap already from me this morning.

Finally put my newest kit in the store.. yaaay!

And there's the Meet My... Princess Challenge with this posting bonus!

Disregard..

2008-03-21T09:14:00.002-04:00

It's a Home Grown Call

2008-03-21T06:35:00.002-04:00

GDS has exciting news! We've always gone "out into the digi-world" to do our Designer calls. Not today! It's so exciting to send out such an "intimate" call. And now I'm kicking myself for not having thought of it sooner... We have the most fantastic community, why in the world would we not call from within. Boy, I can be so dumb sometimes...Anyways, already have a few interested prospects and it's so exciting!

Hope everyone has a wonderful Friday!

It's a home Grown Call

2008-03-20T13:27:00.002-04:00

It's Magical!

2008-03-09T07:50:00.003-04:00

Sitting at dinner last night, just Hannah and I and she says to me, "So hard to chew with your lips closed." Then she paused, tried doing a little more polite chewing and slowly turns and smiles at me and finishes with, "we don't really have to right now, no one's here but you and me!".... What a riot...and what fun she is going to be as a teenager!

I always wanted to be able to do one of those magical layouts. I just never was any good at - just couldn't get the perspective right. Then yesterday I was playing around making some "springy like" kinda papers and the next I knew I was making wings... and then the magic happened! I think I love Saturdays!

It's a Weekend Thing!

2008-03-08T07:59:00.002-05:00

GDS has a new contest running the month of March! There will be 3 winners and all three will recieve the April GDS Collab Kit as the prize! You Can Find out more info here...

Here's a little Freebie for you!!

You Can Find It Here!

Help....!!

2008-03-02T10:38:00.002-05:00

Can anyone tell me what is going on with my Rebel?

Turn Your Life Into ART!

2008-03-02T08:24:00.002-05:00

Digi Class Enrollment at GDS will remain open until March 7!

You Can Find More Information Here!

Here's What Other's Have Already Had To Say:
[I]
"I participated in the Beginner's Class in October. I have been using PSP for several years but felt that I knew very little. I wanted a firm foundation and basic knowledge of the program to use it to its full potential. Daphne's explanation and videos are awesome. Being able to read the lessons and also see the application make it so much easier to learn. I learned shortcuts and felt the material really explained areas I had previously not fully understood. I especially learned from the Template lesson and working with text. I also now can use tools that I had previously shied away from. Being able to ask questions through the Forum is also very helpful. I highly recommend this course and cannot say enough about Daphne's professional ability and readiness to help her students."

"I took this course in November, having completed the Beginner's class. This course really builds on basic concepts. I especially have enjoyed the lessons on brushes and also photo techniques such as extractions that have intrigued me in the past, but I had no idea how to do. Daphne has developed the video lessons so that you can now download them to your computer and keep for future use as well as the written pdf lessons. This is invaluable, as I continually am going back to check a point. Daphne's practical approach to PSP make these lessons a valuable tool. She is also very knowledgeable in various versions of PSP and willing to help you wherever you are. I highly recommend this class and I look forward to taking the Advance class after the holidays."[/I]

2008-03-01T08:30:00.003-05:00

Jess's New Freebie...

You Can Get it HERE

Just Having Fun

2008-03-01T08:23:00.004-05:00

March Already? I can't believe it...but am happy that it is too..I can't wait for Spring to get here!

Here's the GDS March Collab Kit! It's even better than the preview!

Click HERE to get more info

Happy Sunday

2008-02-24T09:11:00.002-05:00

So Glad it's Sunday! What a crazy week!

Meet My... Cat

Here's the link to the Meet My... Cat Challenge

Meet My... Cat Quick Page

You Can Find it Here

Freebie Alpha too!

Have a Wonderful Day!

GDS Has Lots of New Freebies Today!

2007-09-30T08:08:00.001-04:00

Lot's of new Freebies at GDS including Andrea Gold's double template and my Girly Gurl Quick Page...Lots of other goodies too!

Check them all out here in the Giveaway Area at GDS! But hurry... they won't be here long!

Happy Sunday Everyone!

Glitter Elements & Sunday Freebie Quickpage

2007-09-16T10:53:00.001-04:00

New Glitter Stuff on sale at gDS

Shhhh Baby Sleeping Quickpage... Enjoy!!

Link to download located here

Back to the Real World

2007-08-17T08:23:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to our Newest GDS Design Team Member... Helen! She won The Next Big Designer Contest! Congratulations!!

Here's her last round kit

This and That

2007-08-14T07:25:00.000-04:00

Just Released... Finally and it's 20% off now thru 8/25!

I named this page kit Sisters in honor of Holly's birthday coming up. She loves pinks and plums and...well, there you go!

Hope you like it... love to hear your comments and the 15th person to comment here will get it free!

Well it is the last day of the TNB Designer Contest....All the kits are really outstanding. If you get a chance... check them out here and the voting is still open so helps us out and give us your opinion.

Here's just a few of the contestants kits!

Last Day of the Month... Thank Goodness!!

2007-07-31T07:40:00.000-04:00

The Next Big Designer Contest is in it's Second Round and we really need your help on the voting... Lot's of free downloads of these gorgeous page kits.

You Can Check It Out Here

Hope you have a wonderful Tuesday!!

Carnival Nights....

2007-07-28T07:53:00.000-04:00

I was so happy to get this layout completed. You know those layouts you feel pressure to complete like graduations, weddings, dance recitals. Don't get me wrong, I love doing them, I just hate the pressure I feel to get them done.

The reason it's completed though is purely one of those magical digi moments. So, wanna hear the story..lol..shaking your head, "uh no, not really" - ok, I'll tell it fast. Jessica has this challenge called "The Lunch Crunch" every other Thursday at 1:00 pm at GDS... So I decide to check it out *haven't had a moment to scrap a page in months, btw*. I go into the chat about 5 minutes late and there Jessica is saying "Use something red somewhere on your layout... you have 45 minutes to post in the gallery and link back here... Go!"

Whallaaaa... there it is in all it's 45 minutes completion Glory! Talk about a happy camper!!

Credits: Beauty mark overlay by Angela and Emily Powers, Template #4 by Thompsen.

Hope you're having a Wonderful weekend and don't forget to check the site for more new goodies in the Round 2 Gallery of The Next Big Designer Contest as well as lots of new challenges too!

The Next Big Designer Contest Heating Up!

2007-07-27T07:33:00.001-04:00

Finally got moved and ready to get back to business!

click photo for credits

Check Out the products created and free to download for The Next Big Designer Contest Here!

And Here's a Template Freebie from Andrea

You can find her template and other Designer Giveaways here

Sunday Fun!

2007-07-15T11:05:00.001-04:00

Hope everyone is enjoying their weekend! The daily download is still available from yesterday so if you need a little kit for your summer photos... it just might do the trick!

Doesn't This Look Like Fun!

2007-07-14T07:14:00.000-04:00

The Next Big Designer Contest Details can be found HERE

Saturday Daily Download at GDS...
You Can Download the Summertime Fun Minikit HERE

Free Template from Andrea!

Download Link can be found here

Natalyna has a wonderful Denim Add-On Here!

Need Your Opinions?

2007-06-27T08:09:00.001-04:00

Since it's Summer I've had this teeny tiny nagging to get this kit into the store ... do you like this kit? Would you use it if I put it up in the store? Please let me know what you think... I don't know whether it's really worth putting it out in the digiworld or not.

4 Days Until We Move

2007-06-27T08:02:00.000-04:00

It's sad to leave our home. We live at the end of the earth..lol but it's a beautiful place. I am not sure if I'm going to miss it or not yet. I know I hate the drive, especially with all of Hannah's activities. There are kids all over the new neighborhood and we'll be back in civilization again... close to her school where she starts in August and close to everything else. Change. Maybe that's the problem. I'm not a good person dealing with change. and... Here we go again.

How hard is it to balance family and work?

2007-06-25T10:10:00.000-04:00

Is anybody else out there struggling with this? I know I do.. every day. Being a mother, nurturer, cook, cleaner, animal caretaker, digiscrap designer, abstractor... and the list goes on and on... not really complaining. I'm blessed beyond measure. all of my children in good health and doing well. Everything else is just icing on the cake as far as I'm concerned... so why is this so hard sometimes?

Ok...lol.. back to juggling!

New Page Kit and New Challenge!

2007-06-23T12:29:00.000-04:00

Simply Irresistible

You Can Check Out the Challenge and Posting Bonus Here!

Doodle Frames at GDS!

2007-06-22T09:08:00.000-04:00

Adorable Doodle Frames Freebie! Get Em Here!

Snow Bunny

2007-06-22T08:11:00.000-04:00

Hard to believe she's now 5 1/2. Time has flown by so fast as the kids have grown up. And with Hannah, it's just flying even faster. I miss my baby.

Credits: Remember Me page kit by me and Janeal's Corner Template.

What a Great Surprise!

2007-06-21T07:57:00.000-04:00

It's funny how the simple things can make you happy. Jason came strolling in the house last night about 11:00 pm exhausted from working and stopping by his friends' house Aaron to have a beer (or two, probably).

Anyways, I was so happy to see him. Of course as a digiscrapper, when he laid down on the couch and Jax, Sandy and Prince were crawling around all over him and burying him in kisses all I could think about was getting pictures. Didn't get any though because I knew it would only validate more to Jason what a scrap-aholic I am!

He spent the night and left to go back to work this morning. It was nice to be able to get up this morning and say, "Have a nice day Son".

Andrea's Giving Away Another Fabulous Template!

You Can Get It Here!

More Activities

2007-06-20T10:58:00.000-04:00

Well, summer is in full swing. Hannah's now playing soccer in a camp every day this week and tonight starts her dance program too. Tomorrow night is her T-Ball party and we can't wait to see her trophy... I'll be back with pictures!

Off to run like a chicken with my head cut off! Happy Wednesday Everyone!

Win!

2007-06-19T11:08:00.000-04:00

Win an iTunes Gift Card!

Check out the Contest over at GDS! Fun and Easy to win this one!

Back to Monday!

2007-06-18T08:23:00.000-04:00

It's Monday already?... nooo! Oh well...guess that just means we're 4 days away from Friday again! Yaay!

My goodness, for a single 24 year old, he sure looks serious doesn't he?

Denim Freebie

2007-06-16T18:56:00.000-04:00

Here's a cute little freebie you can find here from one of our GDS Members!

Last Day of T-Ball!

2007-06-16T13:33:00.000-04:00

Whew.. what a morning. Today was Hannah's last day of T-ball. It was funny to see so many parents doing the happy dance! The kids were done too!

See Ya Next Year!

Andrea's Got Another Template Freebie!

2007-06-15T11:57:00.001-04:00

Andrea's posted another freebie in the Designer Freebie Section and it's perfect for the A Hero's Thank You Challenge!... Yaaaay!

You Can Find it Here!

A Little Proof...

2007-06-15T08:21:00.000-04:00

Someone mentioned being surprised about all my kids and thier ages...lol.... of course that's a great compliment so thanks! But here they are, same munchkins in my header... no editing included. So funny, they never grow up, they still had a ball at Animal Kingdom! Jason's even holding not one but two dinasour toys! Oh and kristin's holding her's too! And she couldn't leave without one of those big cups that filled your cabinets and NOBODY ever uses again!

Kristin's growing up... still amazes me every time I come across this photo.

Dare to Dream GDS Daily Download for Today!

2007-06-14T09:17:00.000-04:00

GDS is having a Father's Day Sale! Today thru June 17th 20% Off!

It's been so long since I got to do a GDS Daily Download. Andrea's ready for a break so I'm back in business! Hope you like it!

You Can Get It Here!

Lazy Summer Days....

2007-06-14T07:43:00.000-04:00

Aren't you happy it's finally summer time. No, it's not quite official but yesterday was the last day of school around here and for us that means it's finally summer time! We are so ready for barbeque and swimming and flip flops!

Doggy Kisses

2007-06-13T00:37:00.000-04:00

Prince just loves everyone.... His kisses are sweet but oh.. that breath!
He even loves Jax and that's not easy to do...I caught him with this expression and Hannah's swears he's smiling.. What do you think?

Andrea's Got A Free Template!

2007-06-12T10:15:00.000-04:00

Lot's of other wonderful Designer Giveaways to snag here too!

And don't forget to check out all the cool challenges to join - posting bonuses are amazing too!

Have A Wonderful Day!

Beach Girl

2007-06-12T00:14:00.000-04:00

I hope she always finds her treasures and loves the beach.

Another Freebie for the Hero's Thank You Challenge

2007-06-11T09:01:00.000-04:00

Alice just put up this wonderful template freebie for those who want something to use for the "A Hero's Thank You Challenge"... You can get it here.

Here's a few of the layouts going out to Freedom Fighters on July 4th to say our Thanks You's!

A Hero's Thank You Gallery

Join In.. I promise you'll feel good about it and you'll touch a Soldier's heart!

Like My New Header?!

2007-06-11T07:40:00.001-04:00

I'm so proud I made that thing myself and uploaded it without any techy help from my little sister! Ha Holly... I did it!

And what do you think of my beach alpha, papers and elements up there? Yep, they're all mine... and look for them coming SOON! That alpha is pretty awesome isn't it? (Can you tell I'm a little pleased with how that came out!)

Hope you all had a nice weekend... Here we ago again with another fabulous week of digiscrapping! *to self* okay, no more coffee for you this morning!

Eastern Shore Living

2007-06-11T07:14:00.000-04:00

Hannah rescued this huge horseshoe crab who had beached himself upside down and surely would have died if she had not come along to throw him back in the water... She threw him in and he swam back up to her... "thank you Hannah"... sometimes you just don't need the words...

Sunrise on the Eastern Shore

Remember Me

2007-06-07T23:21:00.000-04:00

Yep, another new kit! I'm on a roll! Coordinating Alpha is a freebie you can pick up HERE !

Welcome Home Prince

2007-06-07T07:39:00.000-04:00

Here's My Newest Products at GDS

Meet Prince

It's been two months since we adopted this sweet guy. The family has accepted him with open arms. Just look at those big brown eyes..and don't even go there about those ears! He's a Hound Dog... I wish you could hear him when he barks. Actually, he's a hound dog who wouldn't hunt... just my kinda guy!

Ready Position

2007-06-05T21:32:00.000-04:00

Time to Get Back to Blogging!

2007-06-05T20:51:00.000-04:00

Wow it's been so long! GDS is growing and we have so many fabulous members! The Supreme Team Contest was such a ball and all the new Supremes are rolling.

Hannah's out of pre-k and will be on to Kindergarten in the fall. Kristin's home from her first year of college... I'm so glad she's home! Don't know how I'm gonna get through it when she heads back in August.

Did you see that great pic of John Paul and his girlfriend Alex? They've been together almost a year now. *Yikes* that's hard to believe! Hope that means I'm moving a little closer to "Grandparenthood!"

Now Jason, he's just hopelessly single. I so hope to see him meet a nice sweet girl and fall madly in love! *soon*!

Oh.. There's a new Challenge at GDS... Something near and dear to my heart! You can check it out here...It's Called A Hero's Thank You.

And I made a little Freebie just for the occasion! Hope you like it!

You Can Download it Here

2007-03-08T21:57:00.000-05:00

Hannah & Kristin.. a brief moment on the couch together while Kristin was home from college for a week in February. I can't wait until this college spring semester is over and she's home for the summer... just 8 weeks to go!

2007-03-08T21:55:00.000-05:00

Fun Layout I made while playing around making stars for the GDS 6 Month Anniversary Collab Kit.

Tampa In The Spring Page Kit

2007-02-20T12:09:00.000-05:00

Here's my newest page kit creation

New Daily Goodies at GDS!!

2006-11-20T09:41:00.000-05:00

[SIZE="4"]Do we love freebies?!! Why Yes We Do!

So, here at GDS... We think it's time our members got a daily dose!
Therefore, as of Today... [I]Everyday[/I] our Designers here at GDS are going to be offering a free bit of goodies for you to enjoy!

Today's Daily Goody comes to you from Alice! Enjoy!! [/SIZE]

[URL="http://godigitalscrapbooking.com/shop/index.php?main_page=products_new"][IMG]http://godigitalscrapbooking.com/shop/images/large/holidaytinsel_preview_LRG.jpg[/IMG][/URL]

Time for an update...

2006-09-22T21:29:00.000-04:00

It's been too long. Kristin's all tucked in at college. John Paul has a steady girlfriend, Jason is preoccupied with becoming a professional pool player and Hannah has started another year of pre-school. We've had a summer of lots of activities and it seems that fall has finally come for real. Here's a look at Hannah on her first day of pre-k. Hard to believe that next year she'll be going all day in Kindergarten.

NEWS FLASH.... NEWS FLASH....

2006-09-03T23:36:00.000-04:00

LOTS OF FREEBIES (like this one below) AND lots of FUN * Look for the New challenge for free kits from the store!

{Feels Like Fall}

2006-08-30T14:59:00.000-04:00

Leaves falling off the trees, wind wrustling (is that a word?)... the sky's are gray and it's a bit damp and cool. Weird weather for the end of August. Hmmmm, maybe I'm just hurrying it along with my wishful thinking.

Hannah's napping so I thought I'd upload this new stitching set which will be a freebie on Holly's new site coming up soon.

Any Designers out there looking for a new home... give me a shout out and we'll talk! :) Download it here.

Baby's Drawer

2006-08-29T16:07:00.000-04:00

Download ithere

Meg's Prompt

2006-08-28T09:30:00.000-04:00

Has there been anyone that you've encountered in your life (however briefly), that you wish you had gotten to know better?

There are quite a few actually. Teachers in school, friends of friends, even distant family members. The person though, that I wish I had gotten to know better was the husband of a friend. No, it's not what you're thinking! Sadly, he committed suicide and left a son and a widow. I wish I understood him better.

Halloween Sunday

2006-08-27T20:32:00.000-04:00

Such a quiet relaxing day. Hannah's at her dad's, Kristin's off in college, the boys were at thier house resting from a hard week's worth of work, so... I'm scrapping. Made a new kit. And then found the inspiration from a new magazine to dig out old Halloween photos to make another kit! What a blast. Michael got pizza and I had a half of a cold cut sub and sat on the porch working on my laptop. I miss my babies... but a quiet few hours scrapping can be just the mental therapy us digi-scrap-aholics need to restore our creative souls, kwim?

Here's the Halloween page I made using my fun little kit... I'll be uploading the kit as a freebie after Michael and I watch the blockbuster movie that's due back..uh, yesterday. It's Posiedon. I know, I know, I loved the first one too and I know it won't compare, but I'm thinking the graphics on this new technology aged one might be pretty cool. I'll let you know :)

I am so ready for Fall and Halloween...

WARNING: Your gonna need sunglasses to view this baby!

My Ex Husband always said I was "such a control freak"... Well, is he right?

2006-08-26T08:17:00.000-04:00

I remember when I was big huge pregnant with Hannah we drove to the doctors office for those last appointments that you have every week... I really was a mess by the end of the pregnancy (lol... doing childbearing is really for the younger crowd if you ask me) and I don't know whether it was the fact that this was my fourth baby or what but I had those braxton hicks contraction which were really quite nasty whenever I rode in the car... Anyhooo, we pull up to the doctors office and I roll my big ole' self out of the car and he gets out of the car and comes around to my side and starts walking along with me. Well, as I'm waddling along he gets mad at me and says, "you're just doing this on purpose, trying to control me!"... (Apparently, my waddling along wasn't moving along fast enough). Sadly enough, our marriage only lasted until Hannah was 18 months old.

You Are 36% Control Freak

You have achieved the perfect balance of control and letting go.
You tend to roll with whatever life brings, but you never get complacent.

Are You A Control Freak?

What 3 Random Acts of Kindness?

2006-08-25T09:33:00.000-04:00

The prompt is, "if you were able to, what 3 random acts of kindness would you do where no one would know that you did it?"

Wow, the possibilities and potential are endless. There are so many. The key seems to me to be in the first part of the prompt - If I were able....
#1. I'd cure every childhood disease so no child ever had to endure this again. #2. I'd rid the world of child predators. #3. I'd lead the world to God so we could all be saved.

Wow, that was easier than I thought :) Have a great weekend everyone!

A little Layout Therapy

2006-08-25T01:44:00.000-04:00

Credits: IOD papers freebie, Tracy Simms stitches, ribbon and butterfly, flower doodle I can't find the name tag Pink Kisses, by ksharonk.

Journaling Reads:
It seems as though I spent the summer watching you go. First was Prom in May and then your high school Graduation and then your senior week trip to OC on your own with your friends and finally, you moved to Florida Southern College just this past weekend to begin your four years of studies there.
I’m so proud of you and I love you so much. Letting go is so painful even though I know it is what I have to do.. I say a prayer for you always and I ask God to please Bless my butterfly.

Moving into her Dorm

2006-08-24T11:57:00.000-04:00

Such a great best friend Emily is... here they are packing kristin's car for the road trip to Florida.

Saying goodbye to Emily was very hard for Kristin.

Goodbye to Grandma Mary and her crazy early birthday concoction!

Her Dad gave her that last kiss before we got on the road.

Standing in front of the dorms, if you go to the left, that's Kris's building.

This was the first view of the dorm room. Her roommate hadn't gotten there yet so she got first dibs on what side of the room she wanted. She ended up choosing the window side and by the time we were finished, it was looking pretty comfy! That's my Dad there looking all great and in shape (especially those calf musces after hiking those 3 flights of steps!) And that's my sister "Aunt Holly" and Kris sitting on her bed after a little re-arranging. She just had to have that lamp from Target that my dad says looks like tentacles that might attack her during the night! Oh and if you look really close you can see the "snack shelves" way back in the corner that we put together thanks to the brilliant suggestion from my sister! She even has those horrid raymon noodles which were a part of the thoughtful care package put together by her best friend Emily.

What do you like best and least about where you live?

2006-08-24T11:48:00.000-04:00

I have to say that I really do love where we live. We are on the water with a beach and it's like a dream come true. The water is shallow (2 feet deep) all the way out past the end of the dock so it's safer for the little ones. The moonlight on the water is serene and beautiful. The house is newly renovated and modern with an airy and open feel including cathedral ceilings and a huge master bedroom with a jacuzzi tub.

It also has it's negatives. Hannah's bedroom is on the main level away from the master bedroom so rather than have her down there, we put a toddler bed in our room so I can feel secure as to where she is at night while we're sleeping. Of course that's working ok now, but it won't be lasting forever! I'll have to get an alarm eventually.

We are also 10 miles to the nearest gas station, etc. We also live on an island where there are no movie theaters and the only department store is a K-Mart! Have to go across the Bay Bridge to get to a target!

Life's a compromise though, right?!

Jason & Hannah

2006-08-24T09:33:00.000-04:00

Credits: Carrie_Stephens_FishScrapssnuggles_and_sunshineQP found as a freebie on her blog ~ Thanks Carrie!

Violet Dreams Freebie

2006-08-24T07:47:00.000-04:00

I created this little Violet Dreams Kit for my blogger friends! Hope you enjoy! If you use it, please send me a link, I'd love to see what you do with it... :) Have a great Thursday!

She's In her Dorm...

2006-08-22T13:37:00.000-04:00

After a long 1000 mile drive together, jamming to Staind, Nickelback, Tupac and a little country music, we made it Saturday to Dads in Tampa. Sunday morning came fast. Moving Kristin in to her dorm room and shopping at Target to get all those extra items was fun with Holly and Dad. Dad says to not forget the 3 FLIGHTS OF STEPS!! oh yes, she's on the third floor.... The point is, after Prom, Graduation, Goodbye parties and all the college preparations... she's in. She's there and settled in. I'm headed home. God Bless my butterfly...

Who would I trade with?

2006-08-22T13:34:00.000-04:00

If I could trade my life with anyone's who would it be? I have to agree with Tink, trade.....? They might mess mine up. Not sure they could mess it up any worse than I have, but then again, things can always be worse. I am way too furtunate to risk it!

Meeting the girlfriend

2006-08-06T16:49:00.000-04:00

Ok, I have to admit, I was so happy to hear that John Paul had gone out on a date with a "new girl"... visions of my little grandbabies dancing in my head :) Meeting Alexandria, "Alex" for short was "interesting" and great. She's 24, training to become a hairstylist and very friendly. I liked her right away. I guess we'll just have to see what happens with the new "happy couple".

As for this weekend... It's been a blast! Michael's sister is in town and she and her family as well as Michael's mom and dad and my mom came over for a barbeque yesterday. Jason showed up in the early evening and John Paul with Alex came over too. We grilled hamburgers and hot dogs, cooked corn on the cob, pasta salad, fresh cantalope as well as fresh ice tea, a little beer and wine. We just hung out doing a little swimming, fishing, paddle-boating and ended the night with a bonfire on the beach and the little ones loved doing the s'mores :)

Now I'm worn out and lazing around... Hope you all had a great relaxing weekend too :)

Serious Swimmer

2006-08-04T13:45:00.000-04:00

Places of My Life

2006-08-03T10:20:00.000-04:00

If you could tell the story of your life by taking someone to a half dozen places, where would you go?

The first place I'd take you is to my Grandparents house's (both on my Dad's and Mother's side) to meet them. First thing you'd find is a warm welcoming handshake from the most kind hearted people, rich conversation and laughter and loads of comfort foods being offered to you until they thought you could stand no more. Love my Mom and Dad, but it was my Grandparents who provided me with the unconditional love and attention that I needed to validate that I am a person worthy of concern. I miss them very much and thank them for being such wonderful Grandparent role models. I pray I do half as good a job when my turn comes as they did.

Next place we would go is to the beach. Anytime there has been real trouble in my life I have ran for the water. Standing there at the waters edge, hearing the sound of the waves, seeing the constant motion and the vastness of nature, it has always provided me with the knowledge that life is as God intended and the world is a beautiful place.

My children's worlds would be next. They are my life. If you wanted to see the story of my life, it is there in them. Football fields, swimming pools, teacher conferences, countless playgrounds, the dinner table at suppertime, in the car singing to music, packing and moving a zillion times, hollering at them for things they should have or should not have done, countless hours watching scary movies together, playing and loving the many pets. Through every tears and all the laughter, they are who I am.

A courtroom in the PG County Courthouse. That courthouse was witness to 2+ years of hell. It was a place where life decisions were made. Where battles were waged, lost and ultimately won. That experience profoundly changed who I am today.

And finally, I would bring you to our home to meet my husband. We would have a barbeque and you would find out why I fell in love and married him. He would offer to drag you down to the pier to do a little fishing and he would try to cater to your every need. If it meant singing you a little rock n-roll, doing a little silly dancing, he'd be doing it. If you're nice back, he might even fix your car :)

I thank God every day for my life...

All the Leo birthdays!

2006-08-02T22:05:00.000-04:00

ok, now it's a shout out to Dad... Happy Birthday Dad!

Blog Prompt: Indulgences
My favorite indulgence is my computer time. I so enjoy dsp and digital scrapbooking and learning new techniques. It is hard balancing all the things I want to do and the time I have to do it. So again, more computer time with be my indulging wish or like someone else said, more time in a day would be good too :)

2006-08-01T08:49:00.000-04:00

Ok, First I have to sent a Happy Birthday Shout to my Mother-in-Law.... Happy Birthday Sweet lady!

Prompt from Meg:

Describe a childhood game you used to play. Who did you play with? Any special (ie. made-up) rules?
I don't remember much before the age of 10 or so. I do remember riding bikes where we lived in the culde-sac. We'd go around and around in circles, all us kids in the neighborhood. That's wear I chipped my front teeth...lol.. oh and the rules, well I only remember one... which was from my parents -- you have to sit and let your food digest before you can go back out and play after dinner. I was always plopped down at the front door just staring out at all my friends riding around while I "waited for my food to digest".... fun fun!

Without Words...

2006-07-31T17:20:00.000-04:00

The prompt was, or my interpretation of the prompt was: Who or what occurance has left you speechless?

Laid in bed last night going through the "to do list" in my mind. That led me straight to Kristin and the countdown list of needed items and things to do beforehand. No problem there, just get through that list and off we go to do the 1000 mile drive to Florida and she reports to her college, unpack everything, go through her orientation, run around with last minute items we can buy down there. Hang out in her dorm room and get a little knowledge about her dormmate. All that sounds good, methodical and a pleasant new adventure.

Then it hits... full force... stomach goes into nots, throat goes dry and closes... ringing in my ears.. tears and horrible horrible pain. and the question that runs over and over again... "how am I going to get on that plane and leave her there?" "How am I going to do that?" How am I going to be able to tell her how much I love her and am going to miss her? How am I going to get on that plane? I am without words...

IM Conversation with Dad

2006-07-29T10:50:00.000-04:00

John Paul arrived at my Dad's last night for the weekend. His 26th birthday gift was a round trip ticket for this Florida trip... here's a glimpse of long distance family gabbing....
Dad: hey
me: hey
me: is he still sleeping?!
Dad: howdy your son just got up
me: fun
Dad: we had a late dinner at applebys and home at 12
me: were you guys out last night?
me: ahh
me: sorry.. Kristin's on the phone... brb
Dad: havn't firmed up plans for today,probaby beach ,where is kris?
me: shes getting her new car
Dad: ahhh MUSTANG?????
me: was running to the bank for the cash...
Dad: ahh
me: she and her father are going
me: John Paul eating bagel?
Dad: tell her to pick some up for ME
me: she's gone now...
Dad: not yet he's on the THRONE
me: ahh...TMI!
Dad: i think he slept perrty good
me: lol... he's easy to please...
Dad: yep
me: very low maintenance...
Dad: yep
me: he'll be in heaven there with you!
Dad: like ALL your kids
me: well, I wouldn't say that!!
Dad: what do u have planed today?
me: recovering from the carnival... we were there until after 11 pm... Hannah won a goldfish ...
me: as did Bre
me: grocery shopping... the usual
Dad: neat guess she was excited
me: oh yeah... now we have to get this poor thing some goldfish food...
me: how are u feeling?
Dad: cool something for the CAT
Dad: i'm fine
me: you mean cat's "s"... lol
Dad: yep
me: lol.. there's always the bay... think it'd live in the bay?
Dad: one way to fine out
me: you are so bad!
Dad: throw the dog in too
Dad: just kidding
me: not nice... poor Jax.. everyone has it in for him these days..
Dad: gotta go...fix the young man some breakfast
Dad: luv ya bye
me: have fun ... D
me: luv ya bye too, hugs & kisses to JP too... enjoy your day!

{All In A Day}

2006-07-29T10:09:00.000-04:00

My yesterday was a busy one. Terrible fight with Michael over Jax. Found out Kristin's dream car sold an hour before we were to get there to possibly buy it... poor Hannah whined and fussed all day awaiting the time to go pick up Bre to go to the carnival. Kristin actually found the car of her dreams same year, a little higher mileage but better shape and silver loaded with sunroof and leather instead of black. John Paul flew to his Grandfathers for a first time weekend visit from the round trip ticket we got him for his birthday. Ha, what to get the 26 year old who has everything! Funny, John Paul called to let me know he had "made it" and was standing with his Grandpa Jack at the airport while Hannah and I were on the tilt-a-whirl and watching the fireworks. Speaking of the carnival rides... that was so fun. The lights, the families with their kids, the teenagers running around, the candy apples and hot summer night air, there's something really intoxicating about carnivals with their dirty ride operators and neon light pacifier toys. Bre loved riding the zipper and rode it twice. Hannah rode everything that she could ride for her height! She and Bre even won goldfish which we got the pleasure, Michael and I, to lug around all night. One thing though, nothing like riding those unbrella things that go up and around. I thought I lucked out when they didn't have the ferris wheel running - hint, hint, something's broken! Well, Michael rode the unbrella ride the first time with the girls and when they decided that was the ride of choice for the last ride he declined to go again so I rode with them -- Talk about scared... I screamed and hollered like I was on the biggest roller coaster on earth. I was simply terrified. Something about the way it dipped and swayed so high up in the air - I was for sure we were going to come unbolted from one of the little bolts holding this travelling ride together! Must have been quite amusing to my Michael far down below ~ oh the small revenges of marriagehood.

The Whole ShaaaaaBang

2006-07-29T09:38:00.000-04:00

Here's a rare photo of my munchkins all together - oh boy do they grumble when I gather them around for one of these- came across it yesterday looking for a header photo and thought I'd share.

Advice for my younger self...

2006-07-28T10:17:00.000-04:00

Ok, well this list is probably going to be long.

1. Try not to grow up too fast, there's plenty of time for that.

2. Never forget that you matter and you can make a difference in this life so believe in yourself.

3. Decisions you make may effect the rest of your life so make them wisely.

4. Find a career that you love and never let go of it. Establish routines that work for you and save for retirement.

5. Learn to be still. Contemplate the world around you.

6. Eat healthy and drink lots of water.

7. Give more than you take.

8. Be a good friend at all times... you can never have too many friends or be a friend to too many people.

9. Be honest always with others and with yourself.

10. Surround yourself with children and pets and people you love and never forget that you cannot take "things" with you when you leave this world. What matters is your soul. Leave this world the best of you.

Tag!! We're It!!

2006-07-27T17:41:00.000-04:00

Tag!! We're it! Stacey42 tagged us with an Internet meme! Copy and paste this into your blog and answer the questions, if you want to play along!
1. Have you ever been searched by the cops? My car has
2. Do you close your eyes on a roller coaster? Why yes, yes I do…and scream too!
3. When's the last time you've been sledding? Wow, it’s been 10 years!
4. Would you rather sleep with someone else, or alone? With Hubby of course!
5. Do you believe in ghosts? Yes, in the spiritual sense.
6. Do you consider yourself creative? Yes, but only recently.
7. Do you think O.J. killed his wife? Absolutely!
8. Jennifer Aniston or Angelina Jolie? (silly, I know ... but very "now") Jennifer. I believe woman should stick together and NEVER take another woman’s man.
9. Can you honestly say you know ANYTHING about politics? Only that I think having the two parties is stupid and allows people to side with a “party” rather than debate each issue on it’s own merit.
10. Do you know how to play poker? Yes but I’m a blackjack girl really.
11. Have you ever been awake for 48 hours straight? I have 4 children, need I say more?!!
12. What's your favorite commercial? The back to school Staples commercial
13. Who was your first love? John Roberts
14. If you're driving in the middle of the night, and no one is around you, do you run a red light? nope
15. Do you have a secret that no one knows but you? Of course… but just one
16. Boston Red Sox or New York Yankees? Baltimore Orioles!
17. Have you ever been Ice Skating? Yes
18. How often do you remember your dreams? Not often
19. What's the one thing on your mind? My family and where’s my camera?!
20. Do you always wear your seat belt? Sadly, not always
21. What talent do you wish you had? Singer22. Do you like Sushi? Nope!
23. What do you wear to bed? T-shirt – big one!.
24. Do you truly hate anyone? People who hurt children.
25. If you could sleep with one famous person, who would it be? Tim McGraw
26. Do you know anyone in jail? yes, from church actually.
27. What food do you find disgusting? Sushi, fish, mussels, brains, liver
28. Have you ever made fun of your friends behind their back? Yes (blush)
29. Have you ever been punched in the face? yes ex's are ex's for a reason!
30. Do you believe in angels and demons? yes angels and .. please refer to #29.

{My Contribution to the Freebie World}

2006-07-27T00:21:00.000-04:00

Here's my exciting news... I hope you all like it! You can download it here.

Kielbasa Dinner - Family Recipe

2006-07-26T16:00:00.000-04:00

1 pack of kielbasa
1 large can of cream of mushroom soup
1 cup of red port wine (most of the time I just use my zinfendel)
4 cups of boil in the bag rice
1 can of green beans

slice kielbasa into 1/2 pieces, fry until brown, add cream of mushroom soup and wine, lower temperature to simmer and simmer for atleast 20 minutes. Boil rice. Heat up green beans. Serve keilbasa over rice with green beans as side item. We like to add bisquits with honey as well!

There Goes My Life

2006-07-26T15:45:00.000-04:00

Kristin found out yesterday that she got the job at the college too so instead of reporting on 8/20...she now has to report 8/16. I know, it's only 4 days. But for a mom who is really struggling to come to grips with my daughter leaving home, going a thousand miles away... 4 days is another punch in the stomach. My baby's leaving home...

Credits:
Artsy Smartsy page and elements Created by Elisabeth Weaver
flower photo corners by Angie Briggs
doodles by Rene Bross
Your Are My Sunshine Patch & yellow flowers by One Fine Day Element PackCreated by Stacey Jewell Stahl
Fonts: Old Script, & my shoes

Hannah's Dancing...

2006-07-24T08:36:00.000-04:00

As far as Hannah was concerned... there was no place better to be at the reception than on the dance floor! She danced with everyone and to almost every song and snagged Seth for the slow ones!

Back to the wedding...

2006-07-24T08:07:00.000-04:00

Amy's wedding was, I can honestly say, one of the best wedding's I've ever attended. The church was relatively small and intimate and the reception was within walking distance. Unfortunately the weather at that hour of the morning (11 am - a rant unto itself!) was rainy and with the heat we've been having... can u say muggy! The wedding was so "nice", there was no appearance of stress - it was simply wonderful. And Amy was such a gracious bride. She never showed a moment of irritation with the kids as they scampered around her constantly seeking her attention. Congratulations to the newlyweds!

Sunday Ramblings...

2006-07-23T12:10:00.000-04:00

Pastor Jeff asked, "What are you living for?" and he asked are you living your life "your way or the High way?" and also talked about "living the High way will be free but will cost you everything". What a strong impact all of that was on me. Everything and how I am living my life came into question, some things in focus and some very abstract and yet unreachable. The essance was really about being unselfish and putting others first. Being Christ-like is what being a Christian is suppose to be. When I see what Christ did for us, it's not hard to understand why I should fall on my knees for him. He did the ultimate, he gave his life for me. He loves me and has mercy and provides me with a beautiful place to live. That verse in a song, "The universe declares his majesty" really hits home with me. I mean, I know realistically I can't even begin to do for others what he has done for me. Yet, there is still so much I could be doing. More time I should be spending just with my family, more devotion to my husband, more time to those who just need someone to show they care. How about my million dollar home on the water? My SUV with the tv in it for Hannah's enjoyment? Move to Alexandria to be closer to my husbands work so he wouldn't have to commute 3 hours a day? Of course that would take Hannah away from her father and cause a custody battle that I would have to trust in God's hands. Would Christ do all of that? Yes, I believe he would. What am I living for? Isn't it amazing how you can sit in on a sermon and feel it's being spoken directly to you - don't know if it applies to the rest of the congregation..but it sure applied to me.

Family Fun Friday...

2006-07-22T08:25:00.000-04:00

We had such a fun day yesterday... Everyone's getting ready for Amy's wedding tomorrow - my second cousin's wedding. It's an early one at 11 am today. I can't imagine getting married at this hour of the morning..but ok! Anyways, Grandma Mary gets her hair done here on the island so she was planning to stop by afterwards. Hannah was so happy about her Grandmother coming over...she was up early at 6:45 am and by 9 am she couldn't stand it anymore and called Grandma's cell phone. Grandma didn't answer but Hannah was really upset and complaining to me about how "mean Grandma didn't answer her phone!" so my mom called her back immediately as soon as she could get outta the hair salon. It was so funny, Hannah was so happy to talk to her on the phone, "Grandma, when are you going to be here? I've been SOooo missing you!"... and oh boy the greeting she received when she got here! All the years the boys and Kristin were growing up they never really had that relationship with their grandma - not to say that they aren't close now because they are. But Hannah absolutely adores her Grandma and I would venture to say that my mother has never received the greeting from anyone that she receives from her granddaughter Hannah. We convinced Grandma to get in the pool with us and then had lunch, Hannah got a nap and Grandma left to go finish her "wedding grooming preparations!" When Hannah woke up she asked if we could go to the park which sounded good to me (if we could stand the heat). We met Keiley at the park and when the fun turned to thunder storms Hannah invited Keily back to our house. They ended up playing and romping until 8 pm. Kristin has had Emily here all week while her family's been on vacation which has been nice. Thursday was Kristin's last day at Harris's so now it's up all night, sleep all day... She and Emily went to the grocery store and ran errands to the bank and post office if I'd agree to make "breakfast for dinner" which I did. Hannah and Keily weren't that interested in eggs and bacon for dinner so on the way taking Keily home, we did a Mcd's run for some of their favorite foods... yes of course, "chicken nuggets and french fries". Off to get ready for the wedding ... Have a great weekend!

She Dances....

2006-07-21T10:06:00.000-04:00

Very Best Advice....

2006-07-21T09:09:00.000-04:00

I've been married 4 times. I have 4 children, 2 from my first husband, 1 from my 3rd and 1 from a man I never married but was together with for over 10 years (my 17 year old daughters father). To say I'm not very good at taking advice would be a gargantuan(sp?) understatement! Let me just say this, I like to learn things the hard way. Truthfully, it has been my children who have paid the price. I look at them with amazement and a gratefulness to God for making them turn out as the incredibly wonderful people that they are. God's grace is a wonderful, wonderful, wonderful thing. Having said that, maybe it explains why I think the best advice I ever got isn't so great really, but it did help me along the way. It came from the very first Alien movie (I know, gotta chuckle on that one... anyhoo... there's a scene in the movie where they are being attacked by the aliens and one of them says, "We can't afford to let even ONE of them get in here!" Well, I have heard that comment going around in my head ever since... "pay the bills, can't afford to even have one of those bill collectors get in here!"..-- Ok, so I've confessed my most shameful life choices and spoke of aliens all in the same paragraph, how scary is that?! Now giving advice, Oh in retrospect I'm probably worth a fortune in all the things "NOT" to do! If given the choice though, I can't imagine changing anything about my life if it meant altering anything about my children.

He proposed....

2006-07-20T08:02:00.000-04:00

lol...which time?!

Michael and I had only been dating for 6 months when he proposed to me after dinner at a wonderful restaurant in old town Alexandria. He had the ring and the truth was, he just couldn't stand it anymore trying to wait and just "impulsively" jumped up, got the ring and dropped down on one knee... Poor man, didn't even begin to know what he was getting himself into!

Here's a picture of us taken by Kristin the night we were headed out on a date to see Tim Mcgraw in concert....

I love you Michael!

And thanks you guys for all of your nice comments along the way... Have a great day!