Just Scrappin' Happy

And Here It Is: My 1st Giveaway Of 2012!

2012-01-03T14:46:00.000-08:00

I have a confession to make: I have WAY more "stuff" than I care to admit to. I mean...I have enough paper craft supplies to open TWO scrapbook stores...no joke! And so...this year is all about opportunity for me. This is an opportunity to:

1. Destash
2. Make some new papercraft friends
3. Share my love of paper with all of you

And so, I am giving away this set of scrap goodies:

This set includes beautiful papers, chipboard letters, and flowers from Prima, a chipboard mini album from Maya Road, and rich earthy buttons and lace ribbon.

Now, you're probably asking...so...how do I win this wonderful set of goodies? What's the catch? Well, my scrappy friends, here's all you have to do:

1. Leave me a comment. Say hello. Tell me your name. Nothing too time-consuming.

2. Post this giveaway on your personal blog. Be sure to leave the link to your blog in your comment.

3. Subscribe to my feed...right on the lefthand side of my blog. I'll be checking...so don't skip this step!

4. Tell a friend to join you in entering. For this, you get an extra chance at winning. (Make sure they tell me who sent them.)

That's all my crafty peeps. Good luck! I can't wait to see who enters...and I can't wait to share my goodies! I've already picked out my next package for February...so if you don't win this month, don't give up.

First On The Site: 2 New Layouts!

2012-01-03T08:49:00.000-08:00

I am super excited to list my first two layouts for 2012! Here is a sneak peek:

"Bundle Up for a Snow Day" using papers and embellishments from Pink Paislee.

"August Adventures" featuring Imaginisce.

Both of these layouts will be available on my website until they sell out. Quantities are limited, so please order early. Details are on the site.

I've got a great freebie coming later today. Stop back this afternoon for details...you don't want to miss it!

Happy 2012!

2012-01-02T18:37:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but I'm pretty excited about a new year. So much hope and excitement is in the air. I saw on the news that most people believe 2012 will be filled with opportunity for personal growth. I am one of those people.

I've gotten "back on the wagon" and have already started eating better and moving more. I decided to again be conscious of what goes into my mouth...and to be in the moment of how full I feel. I also signed up for an online class with Cathy Zielske called "Move More Eat Well 2012." My good pal Jenn Penn and I have agreed to do it together and will try to keep each other accountable as we take better care of ourselves. I'm pretty excited about it!

I've also decided to do my own version of a "Project Life/365" this year. I want to document each day thru my camera and turn those photos into a year-long album. I am totally commited to getting myself caught up on my scrapbooking...and this will be a constant reminder to document my life...past, present and future. I'm so excited about my goals for 2012. Days one and two have been a success!

Yesterday's adventures brought me out to the boardwalk at White Memorial in Litchfield, CT.

The temps were in the low 50's with no wind. A perfect day for a walk!

And today I took the boys (my boy and my nephew) out to the mall for some "end-of-vacation" shopping:

Time is passing so quickly...I want to live every minute of it!

And so...as you can see...I've got lots to look forward to this year. I would love to hear about the goals you have set out for 2012...big or small. Leave me a comment.

And...some exciting news for all you scrappy people:

1. Starting tomorrow and continuing every month, I'll be posting a new GIVE AWAY filled with scrappy goodness! I want to share my love of scrapping with all of my readers. Full details will be in tomorrow's post, so please check back. Wait till you see the goodies I've put together!

2. I'm restarting my kit business in 2012. I'll be offering page kits, mini album kits, handmade embellishments and more. I'll share new ideas and tips as well...so get out your trimmers & tape runners...it's time to get back to scrapping!

Happy 2012 Happy Scrappers! Wishing you the very best!

Celebrating What Matters...

2011-12-01T19:24:00.000-08:00

...or, as many of you scrappy people call it: the "December Daily."

I started a December Daily. Last year. It's still not finished. Sound familiar?

How about the 2011 challenge I took with a dear friend. Michelle, I tried to keep up. I really did. But I have fallen short of my 365 scrapbook layouts. So very short.

And my promise of more blog posts. But the laundry. And the picking up and dropping off. The music lessons and the swim lessons. The church commitments and the school functions. Dinners to make and clean up after. The grocery shopping and the bill writing.

And, on top of it ALL, I have come down with bronchitis. Again. Times 5. Yes. 5 times this year. I am run down, out of breath (literally), and out of energy.

And yet, I hold onto my dreams.

This week I have put all of this aside to celebrate what matters. And what matters to me is my family. My son. My husband. My little niece and (now 2) nephews. My dearest friends. And of course me. The only things in my life that truly matter.

Today, as I celebrate the 25 Days of Christmas, I take time to reflect and refocus what matters most in my life. I celebrate all that makes my heart sing. Today, that something is my son.

Merry Christmas to all those near & far. I wish you the best of holiday seasons...and hope all your dreams come true!

Returning After A Long Hiatus...

2011-08-02T13:45:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wished for a "break?" A chance to just walk away from your life to find yourself? Sometimes, if we are lucky enough, we get a chance to do just that. For me, it was a hard decision to leave behind a job that I loved, people that I cared about, and a profession in a field I had always dreamed about being in. But I was stretched too far, broken in so many places. I had lost who I was. My family was hurting on the inside. And so, I took a break.

Fast foward 4 months. Reconnecting with my son this summer has been the greatest gift in my life. I can honestly say this has been the best summer of my life. We've gone on trips, we've gone to the ocean, we've gone to the movies and the drive-in, we've kayaked, gone on picnics, taken long nature walks, been to amusement parks, sailed on tall ships, planted a garden, and through it all, we've gotten closer than we've ever been. My greatest gift has been falling in love with my boy, all over again.

He makes my heart melt!

Now that I have re-organized my life, I'm getting ready to jump back into the crafting scene. My love of crafting extends way beyond paper, and now I have the time to dedicate to all my crafty desires. I will be launching (or re-launching?) my two crafty companies...Canterbury Village and Just Scrappin' Happy this fall. Just Scrappin' Happy will showcase my love for scrappy goodness and all things paper. Canterbury Village will be my home for stitchery, wood, pillows, prim and more. I hope you'll follow me along on my crafting adventures...I'm excited to return to the craft scene! It's been long overdue!

Here's a sneak peek of what I started working on today:

Tea dyed grunge tags, complete with a sprinkle of cinnamon. These beauties will be pinned to my pumpkin pillows. The muslin is soaking a a bath of tea as we speak! Get ready friends...I'm back in the saddle again!

Wishing For A Dream Come!

2011-03-08T18:12:00.000-08:00

I did it! I applied for the Design Team at Jillibean Soup. This would be a dream come true for me. I have loved this company from the very start. I only hope that they find what they are looking for in me.

Want to know what my samples were? Here we go:

I couldn't resist this picture of Katherine playing in the rain. I've gotta get me a pair of those boots..for sure!

I didn't have red Jillibean letters, so I used white ones, which I painted to match.

I love Jill's trademark flower.

And how cute are the girls in their cowboy hats? Now all they need are horses!

These corrugated letters are my absolute fav!

The Trail Ride is always worth the wait!

I'm sending this card to Kelly Jo tomorrow. Shhh...don't tell! :)

And this card is going to my friend Karen...who took good care of me these past two weeks with my pneumonia and bronchitis. Think she'll like it?

I made a couple Christmas items as well, but didn't enter them as part of my application. I'll show you guys just the same:

Joy. A sweet little wall hanging.

I'm telling you...I LOVE these letters!

Such cute snowmen.

I even doodled with my favorite white pen!

Well crafty friends...I've got to head back to my studio & pick up my mess. And then it's off to bed to catch up on some reading. Wish me luck...pretty please! I hope Jill & Kimber like what they see!

5 Weeks of Illness!

2011-03-05T11:02:00.000-08:00

That'll set ANYONE back. Just a bit. It's been a struggle trying to keep up with school work, work work, housework, homework, and whatever other kind of work I've had to contend with. I finally see the light at the end of the tunnel: my breathing is getting better day-by-day, I am getting lots of rest, and I am starting to resume "normal" activitites (on a limited basis, of course.) Things like vacuuming the rugs, doing laundry and cleaning the bathroom tire me out quickly, so I try to do them in limited intervals. I am on Spring Break from school this week and am hoping to get back to my regularly-scheduled-life soon!

In the midst of all my suffering from bronchitis and pneumonia, I have some fun creating new projects with the February and March "Company Kits" from NESC. Here were a couple of my layouts from the February kit:

Just before I became sick I had purchased a new leather journal and had begun drawing sketches for new layout designs. I was feeling a little stuck when I went to create my 1st sample, until I remembered my sketches. I love how it turned out!

Bo Bunny's line was amazing to work with. I especially liked the dimensional stickers included with this kit.

The Thickers alphabet allowed me to create my own title.

I am just starting to get comfortable making single-page layouts. I take so many pictures that it makes it hard for me to focus on only one. But, sometimes that perfect photo comes along, and you want to showcase it.

I used one of the mini album pages as the base for my embellishment focus, creating this multi-layered accent.

I don't like my pages to be flat...I can always been seen with a good supply of foam pop dots!

For the March "Company Kit" I was again compelled to create a single-page layout because of this photo of me & my son. The photo (from 2006) captures our relationship to this day!

That boy tugs at my heart strings like no one else can! He is my reason to get up in the morning; he puts the smiles on my face. I loved showcasing this photo with the beautiful pastels of the March kit.

I had fun playing with the ribbon, gathering and ruffling as I went,

I used my Fiskars punch to add flair to my layering. "Do You Remember" is the PERFECT title for my page!

I plan to spend some more time this weekend playing with my fabulous kits from NESC. I imagine many of the ladies who buy the kit will be just as inspired as I am. I'm also going to play with the new Berryliscious line from Imaginisce and catch up on some of the Designer Series kits I have purchased. Leave me a message...I would love to know what you are working on!

Enough Said!

2011-01-01T19:26:00.000-08:00

Found this quote while blog-hopping tonight after dinner. I thought it was way better than anything I could come up with on my own. Thanks Becky Higgins: you've said exactly what I was feeling.

Happy New Year everyone. I wish you happiness & peace...today & always!

"It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year"

2010-12-08T13:57:00.000-08:00

It is indeed. Days 1 thru 7 of my "25 Days of Christmas Countdown" have been nothing short of amazing. I have enjoyed every bit of it!

Day 1 was filled with excitement as I informed my family & friends about my acceptance back to UCONN! After many-a-year, I took some time in November deciding if it was the best decision for me and if it was the right time to go back and finish my degree. My answers came. And starting in January, I will be a full-time student studying for my Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Go Huskies!

Day 2 was family night...a very important component to the Schimanski household. We took a drive to Springfield, MA to see "Bright Nights"...a drive-thru light spectacular. Complete with hot cocoa, of course!

Day 3 was super fun: Movie Night at our church. The night's premire event: The Polar Express.

Days 4 was spent baking treats for a cookie swap with friends. I am much more of a "chocolatier" myself...so I made CAKEBALLS instead of cookies.

Day 5: spent with friends old & new. A yummy potluck, a cookie swap and belly laughs. Jen, you were the perfect hostess!

Day 6 brought joy to my heart. I spent the evening with my in-laws as we watched my son and fellow band members put on a winter concert. This year Andrew is playing both the clarinet & the saxaphone. That boy makes a mama proud!

Day 7 was spent with a friend buying gifts for people in need at our church. She has a daughter Andrew's age and the two of them enjoy hanging out with each other. They both came along as we shopped and tried to pick out the perfect gifts. Before we left for Target, I snapped this shot of the setting Decemeber sky:

Merry Christmas blog readers! Thanks for following along on my first week! Hope yours was just as delightful!

The Stockings Were Hung.

2010-11-27T05:56:00.000-08:00

Hubby's schedule has him leaving us next week till mid-December. So yesterday, we got staright to work to get the house decorated so that he could enjoy the the season before leaving.

We watched the Macy's Thanksgiving parade (that I DVR'd from the day before) while we decorated the tree. Yes...all of our ornaments are snowmen!

I can enjoy the holiday festivities and not worry about the hustle & bustle.

Taking time to remember the "Reason for the Season" is what Christmas is about. Hoping you take time to enjoy your holiday season too!

Taking Time To Play.

2010-11-24T07:58:00.000-08:00

Some people I know have a lot to say. Not me. I figure no one wants to hear my schedule. Everyday. My life's not too-terribly exciting. And I kinda like it that way. Don't get me wrong...I've got a LOT going on...but we ALL have a lot going on. And really, I have no interest in re-hashing it all. Where am I going with all this? A daily post on my blog is just something I can't get done right now. Until I reach a point where I can show you all something I've made everyday, I've got nothin'.

I do, however, have something today.

Saturday I spent the 1st half of the day at my friend Cookie's house. She recently moved to the sticks (for you locals...that's Norfolk, CT) with her hubby to a gorgeous, sprawling ranch with lots of woods. Beautiful! We spent the afternoon downstairs in her scrap room. I was so excited to start my "December Daily - Christmas Countdown" mini album designed by Stephanie Ackerman.

(Pay no attention to the Twix bar in the corner...)

All the ingredients to create a beautiful Christmas Countdown are included in her kit. I changed mine up a bit to reflect my personal style and my pictures, but I love how she put the coordinating pieces all together. I'll get back to this in a moment.

Here are some pics of Cookie's scrap room:

Organization is KEY to a great working space.

Her cardstock is color-coordinated.

She has everything she needs right at her fingertips.

And the island in the middle is great for spreading out. I've got to get my act together & re-do my stiudio space!

As for my Christmas Countdown album, I worked on it again on Monday. I'm finished thru page 19, including the cover. I can't wait to get it finished this weekend. Then, I'll be all ready to capture my December moments, one day at a time. It's important to stop and celebrate the season each & everyday. After Christmas, I'll print my photos and adhere them to my completed album. And my memories of the season will be saved forever. Take time this holiday season to remember the moments that matter. Create a keepsake of your own and have it for many Christmases to come. Wishing you & yours a very happy Thanksgiving holiday!

Taking A Moment To Catch Up.

2010-11-16T09:18:00.000-08:00

Things have been C. R. A. Z. Y. busy these past few (10+) days. The scrapbook store had a retreat we sponsored in Simsbury, I had pies to help deliver for the PTO fundraiser, Andrew started the junior swim team, and hubby had to make an emergency visit to the knee doctor for a cortisone shot. Not to mention the 5000+ other things I had going on. But today I am taking a wee-bit of a break to get myself somewhat caught up.

I've got a few sponsor opportunities I am working on. Last night I made some toppers for my bags of goodies:

I purchased my very own stamp from the Scribbling Club.

And I'm working on these:

But this isn't the finished product. You'll have to wait to see how cute they are when they are done.

I've got a list full of things to get done before I head off to work. It'll be a late night for me, but tomorrow is my day off...maybe I can sneak in a nap.

A Good Day.

2010-11-07T14:54:00.000-08:00

A great big thanks to all the ladies who came out today to spend their Sunday with Debbie & I working on their calendars. I had a wonderful time teaching, laughing & having fun. It was a lot of hard work...

...but it was worth it. Now imagine...think of these kits...times 20 students...times 12 months.

Man, that's a lot of paper!

Everyone worked hard to stay on task. (You know how women can be...all chatty & giggley!)

These two ladies did me proud! They were doing two kits at the same time. Talk about dedication.

See Debbie way down the end? She was on her break. I didn't get a break...I'm just sayin. HA!

Now I'm home and hubby & child are making me dinner. BBQ chicken, sweet potatoes, green beans & iced tea. I've got the life! Happy Sunday!

A New Adventure Begins.

2010-11-05T19:14:00.000-07:00

If there is one thing I dislike, it's coming off a new routine. I know myself...once I fall off my wagon, it's hard for me to start up again. I was going strong with my blog posts...and then...WHAM-O! I missed a day. But I've had a real busy week, so I'm trying to get over it. Trying...

Today was no exception to the busy-ness. Hubby came home at 2am (yes, you read that right...) this morning. That woke the dog up. And with the dog up barking, I was up. And I stayed up. All through the night. And now it is 10pm...and here I am writing to all of you. I ought to have my head examined! It's been a really long day. *Yawn.*

Back to my title. Adventures. We're always starting new ones around here...especially this time of year. Tonight Andrew started the Jr. Laser Swim Team at the YMCA. It was his 1st time, so we all were a bit anxious. But, being the proud mama that I am, I have to tell ya that he was F.A.N.T.A.S.T.I.C. He didn't stop once. I am so proud of him.

He continues with his once-a-week lesson on Saturdays and will meet with the Jr. Swim Team on Fridays.

I have two more long days ahead of me so I am off to bed for some much needed rest. Wishing all my peeps a good evening. Sweet dreams!

Switching Gears

2010-11-03T12:08:00.000-07:00

On the 1st Saturday of November our church plays host to a Fall Festival. This year's event is this Saturday, November 4th from 9am to 3pm. We offer handmade crafts, baked goods, a raffle drawing for beautiful baskets and a yummy lunch with homemade soups, sandwiches, hotdogs and desserts. If you are local and would like to stop by, we would love to have you. Admission is free and is handicap accessible.

I often assign myself the job of creating a "snowman-type" craft every year. For anyone who knows me, you know I ADORE snowmen...country-folksy type snowmen. We decorate our tree every year with snowmen ornaments. So, I don't mind crafting them for the fair. Here is one I am finishing up today:

I have 8 of these guys waiting for some type of seed for the bottom. I went on the hunt looking for dried corn, but alas, I found only sunflower seeds. Walmart no longer carries wild-bird food; only domestic. And Home Depot had cracked corn, not whole corn. So, I settled for seeds.

Here is my finished one:

My hope is to make a few more tonight to put up for sale on Etsy. If you love him, and would like one of your own, leave me a comment with an email addy we'll talk.

I'll be working late in the studio tonight on another snowman creation. Enjoy your day. I've got lots of work to do! :)

Teaming Up To Teach With A Good Friend

2010-11-02T18:28:00.000-07:00

If you local & are looking for a great gift-giving idea, consider signing up for this spectacular calendar class, offered by my friend Debbie...and me. Take a peek:

This class has limited seating, but we have a few spots left. We would love to have you!

Here are the details:

*Debbie B. & Christy have teamed up to offer an 8 x 8 calendar class on Sunday, Nov 7th, 10am to 5pm.

*Feel free to bring a lunch or go out...we'll break for a half an hour.

*This class always sells out, and we've got a limited number of seats available.

*Cost is $62.50 per calendar.

*Call to reserve your spot soon. 860.693.9197

*Can't make the class? Call to sign up for a kit.

*These make great holiday gifts.

Hope to see you there!

The Trickers Have Come & Gone...

2010-11-01T06:10:00.000-07:00

...and the treats have been put away. It's November dear friends. For us that means voting, a Thanksgiving feast, and holiday preparation. Lots to do, lots to do.

I came across this pic today from one of my cyber friends, Stephanie Ackerman. Her passion for life and her optimism inspite of doubt really inspire me to be a better person. Her work is A.M.A.Z.I.N.G! She is a self-taught "crafter-extraordinaire" but don't take my word for it. Go take a peak at her work on her blog. Tell her I sent you!

Most mornings she is kind enough to remind us we are all here for a reason. Today's Facebook post was fitting for me:

Doesn't this just make you think for a second? Wow. She's right. We all have that potential. Thanks Stephanie! You have shaped my goals for today.

Make you day extra-ordinary. Why? Because you can! Happy November everyone!

It's Finally Here!

2010-10-31T13:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween everyone!

Thank you Vanessa for making my mantle look so good!

Vanessa taught this amazing banner class two years ago and I still hang it out every year. I love it.

We got to play with Stickles and ink.

And die cuts and chipboard stickers.

And ribbons too!

And no spider would be complete without the googley eyes!

This afternoon we carved our pumpkins and we're all set for our trick-or-treaters.

Wishing you a very safe & happy halloween.

Kind Of Like Kermit The Frog...

2010-10-29T19:55:00.000-07:00

...well...almost. Remember how he says "it's not easy being green?" Well, I'm not green, but it's not easy. Being famous that is. It's hard work. Now, I may not be as famous as some people...Kermit, Craigy Ferg, Bon Jovi, or Queen Vanna, but I'm famous enough. The NY girls at the store tonight knew who I was...the chic with the blonde side-ways hair. And people tell me they read this blog-o-mine. So, in my mind, I've got peeps. I've got friendies. And that makes me famous! (Remember my tv appearance??)

In my last post I promised pics of my other Halloween layouts. Truth be told, I forgot my camera. All week. I FINALLY remembered it today and was able to take these shots. I hope you enjoy...I myself just love these layouts. And it's all because I love My Minds Eye products. See for yourself:

This will be the layout I use for the trick-or-treating pics I take. These little costume people are

SO STINKING CUTE!

Their eyes just make me giggle!

My Minds Eye...you rock!

Here is the second layout I did from the leftovers of the 1st. I'm thinking I might use it for the pumpkin carving pics I'll take tomorrow:

Not too shabby for just using leftovers, huh?

Wouldn't these guys look great with some pumpkin carving photos?

Even the CROW is stinkin' cute! Did I mention that I love this line?

I'm sad that Halloween is almost here, and that it will be over soon. But I've got two days before it all comes to an end, so I'll see what else I can crank out before then. And so, to all my peeps out there...HAPPY HALLO-WEENIE!

I'm Feeling Inspired

2010-10-25T11:44:00.000-07:00

I had some creative mojo this weekend. I was really digging the Halloween theme and that feeling really came out in my projects. Here's just a sampling of what I did:

A few weeks back a received a "freebie" from Part Time Sally. If you placed an order over $20, you received a Halloween goodie including papers, rub ons, ribbon & a mini album from Cosmo Cricket. Here's what I did with my loot:

The rub ons went on so smooth...just like "butta!"

I had been saving these little spiders from an earlier Little Yellow Bicycle collection.

He looks so cute on the web!

This velvet-y purple scalloped ribbon was great to work with.

I can't wait to add this year's pics to it!

Echo Park Paper has a nifty little challenge going on right now. I'm trying to win (of course!) so I just submitted this layout on their Facebook fan page:

I really loved working with their Halloween collection.

I am a sucker for foam pop dots. My pages gotta have dimension!

I added a pop dot to my spider too...so spooky!

I've got some projects to showcase tomorrow using the My Mind's Eye Halloween collections. Stay tuned scrappy friends.

I've Finally Got Something Worth Saying...

2010-10-19T06:54:00.000-07:00

...so I'm gonna say it. HA! Really, to tell you the truth, it's just been very busy around these parts. Not that all of you haven't been busy...I'm just sayin'.

For those of you who follow my crazy antics on Facebook, you probably know that we went to my hubby's sister's wedding last weekend. A little bit of car trouble (a check engine light & a flat tire...just not all at once), a craft show:

some corn:

and a BEATUTIFUL ceremony. It was a great weekend!

My sister-in-law and her new hubby OJ. Congrats!

This past weekend was just as busy. My busy little nephew Michael turned 5 on Sunday. My sister threw him a cuper cute Halloween birthday party. All his little friends from daycare came to celebrate:

(You can tell I am getting older when I start to twitch over 6 little five-year olds!)

We had witches and cowgirls...

...and Batman & soldiers...

...a Gladiator (this is Andrew...the "big" kid cousin)

...and a vampire! Michael, you look so spooky! Happy Birthday!

I love being the "crafty aunt." I get to make cool little things for the kids. And since Andrew is getting older, I take every opportunity I can. I made these cute little owl-treat bags for the birthday kids:

I don't know about the kids, but I know the moms really loved them! I borrowed the idea from here.

Next, I getting ready to go away for a weekend scrap event in MA. I haven't really worked on my own albums all year, and I think my family is starting to notice. Andrew asked me if I was ever going to put together anymore Disney albums. (We've been 11 times and I have one album completed. Yikes!) So, the plan is to make up kit packs & spend the whole weekend scrapping. We'll see how much I get done...sometimes my need to socialize gets in the way! Wish me luck!

Finally...Some New Goodies Listed On Etsy

2010-09-20T09:58:00.000-07:00

Things have pretty much started to settle down...school is in full swing, hubby is back to work, and I am able to spend some time on my own crafty projects. Today I listed a few goodies in my Etsy shop:

It's not too early to start thinking about the holidays! How about this cute snowman photo holder?

The 1st day of fall is this Wednesday...these are just perfect for your autumn layouts or cards.

Deep red flowers for embellishing cards, pages, tags and more.

Cute lil' mini pumpkins!

Mini autumn colored flowers...super cute!

Ladybug embellishments for cards or pages.

And butterflies with beautiful pearl accents.

I've got more crafty items coming soon...so visit me again later this week to see what I've been up to! Any special requests? Let me know what I can create for you!

Changes

2010-09-14T05:32:00.000-07:00

I enjoy this time of year when summer comes to a close and fall is right at our doorstep. Truth be told, I like it when all of the seasons are changing from one to the next...the 1st snow fall, the 1st hint of spring, the 1st beachy-type day. And while spring is my favorite season of all, fall comes in as a very close second. The cool, crisp chill in the air, the colors of the leaves, the nutty smell in the air...I just love it all! So, I tend to jump the gun a little and start to decorate my house for the season change Labor Day weekend...a time when most of us are pushing for that last little bit of summer. So, as I was getting ready to change over my decor, I came upon these lovely little items from my friend Kim at Valley Primatives:

These lil pumpkins are just the cutest ever!

And I have always loved her selection of framed stitchery. (I think I own about 12 different ones.)

Kim does a fantastic job on her creations...I highly recommend her crafts if you love the "prim" look. I can't tell you how excited I am when there is a box from her filled with country-prim goodies! Thanks Kim. She has started listing Christmas and winter items too, so be sure to check her out!

This weekend I had the opportunity to meet and work with some amazing women as we gathered for a retreat and convention to commit to "Acting Boldly" for God. I am a part of the Women of the ELCA (the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America) and our district, the New England W/ELCA gather every two years to recommit our faith and service. Among the many women I had an opportunity to met, I connected with a powerful woman named Moloko, who is from South Africa. In an instant she changed my life forever! Words cannot express the way she impacted my life. I am truly blessed to have met her, and sincerly hope that we will remain friends for a lifetime.

My newest friend Moloko and my friend Sharon from my church. Both of these women are amazing to me.

I urge all of my friends to take a moment to stop and reconnect with our higher power. Whatever your personal beliefs are, stop and listen and breathe in peace. If we all took a moment to do just that, our world would be a much better place. I wish all of you a blessed day! ♥

I Need A Sign...

2010-09-07T19:16:00.000-07:00

...that says "Schimanski General Store." We've been busy canning...and canning...and canning some more. I *almost* feel like a squirrel! :)

Pickles...check. Sauce...check.

Jams...check. Fruit...check. Applesauce...check.

It'll be so nice come the winter time when I can walk downstairs & grab a jar of somethin' tasty!

Then, after all of that, I've re-started my lil' sweatshop in the studio. Now that things have calmed down, I can get back to my own craftiness. Here's what I put together today:

Look for crafty-goodness coming soon! I've got all KINDS of things up my sleeve!

And So It Begins.

2010-08-30T07:34:00.000-07:00

The beginning of a new school year. My baby has grown up & is now a middle schooler. I don't think I can stand it!

He let me walk with him to the bus stop. This is a big deal. In elementary school, the bus stop was at the end of our driveway. It's now one street up from us on a fairly busy cross street. As of tomorrow, I am no longer allowed to leave the house.

He also let me take "some" photos. But only because today is for the 6th graders. As of tomorrow, I better not DARE to embarrass him!

And...there he goes. I promised him I wouldn't cry in front of all the kids. I didn't make it.

Ummm...Hello! (Cuz I know I'm gonna hear about it!)

2010-08-27T08:29:00.000-07:00

This one's for you, Michelle Knuth! :)

It's summertime. Extra activities. Vacations (not my own...but covering for other people.) An injured husband. Wait. What? Yeah. Hubby got hurt at work...tore his menicus in his left knee...5 weeks ago. Needless to say, it's been a long 5 weeks. He had surgery last week. Doing better. He goes back to work on Tuesday. Thanks be to God!

In other news, I've been working really hard to getting my act together. So far, not so good. But atleast I'm trying. My life goes back to "normal" next week when Andrew heads back to school. Less hours at the store. More time home being a mom. I really miss that part of my life. It's nice to have that opportunity again.

I've been doing a little crafting here and there. I made this fabulous mini album from a kit I bought at a scrapbook store in Hyannis. Super cute...I'll put pictures from our camping trip a couple of years back.

And last weekend Vanessa & I had the pleasure of taking a class with Cheryl Mezzetti to create this GORGEOUS pumpkin chipboard album:

I was hired to create a custom album for a gentleman in Canton for his wife's 60th birthday. I'm happy to report that he absolutely loved it! I hope his wife does too. Now it's time to get back to my own albums.

Sometimes You Just Have To Roll With It!

2010-07-11T20:04:00.000-07:00

And so, the 'stache saga continues. Andrew & I got our 'stache fix at the grocery store in the bubblegum machines (thanks T.H.O.M. Thom!) yesterday afternoon. And we stood in front of the mirror taking goofy pics of ourselves. And then today, Pastor Mike asked Andrew to help him out with a skit during the children's message, which required Andrew to dress up like Pastor Mike, mustache & all. And dang-it...I didn't have my camera with me! But it SURE was funny! The whole church was rolling!

But, I think it all came to a peak this evening when Vanessa whipped out her "Mustache in a Bag" kit and I got to make myself my own 'stache. I tell ya...I can "Rock a 'Stache!" And my friend Sue helps me complete the look! Thanks Sue! :)

You Know When You're Having A Bad Day...

2010-07-08T19:34:00.000-07:00

...and every little thing is bugging you? And then you realize that it's YOU making it hard on yourself. That was today...until I sat down on the ol' computer for some Facebook time. After an 1 1/2 hours of coming up with ways to make fake mustaches with some very. funny. friends...I was all better.

My solution to the mustaches: SQUEEZE CHEESE!

Vanna says we'll have to re-apply all day long. But only if we have crackers. Town House? Club? Ritz?

A New Blog Design & Some Newly Scrapped Pages

2010-07-07T20:19:00.000-07:00

Don't get me wrong. I liked the old look of my blog. But it was "fallish" looking with all the deep browns & earthy tones. It was time for a change. I found this new design while helping out a friend who wanted to start her own blog. So thanks Chris...you were my inspiration of change!

The heat has been almost too much. Both Andrew and I have weak stomachs in heat, and are prone to heachaches. We almost had an air conditioner mishap, but thankfully we got it all worked out. My studio is in the basement...a nice & cool place to hang out in. Andrew and I spent some "crafty time" together. I've been busy:

This was a class kit from my good friend Debbie. I am in awe of her talent!

My goal is to work on some Disney pages later this week. I have loads of Disney pics to catch up on. We are hoping to go to WDW in December & spend Christmas there now that Andrew knows "you know what about you know who" in the red suit.

And, before I leave you this evening, I'll share a link to a local newspaper. They interviewed me on Tuesday for a story on veterans and scrapbooking. It was an interesting story...hope you enjoy! Stay cool!

Yes...I am a Scrapbooker!

2010-06-19T08:42:00.000-07:00

Some of you are patiently waiting for a new post. (I know who you are! *wink*) You want to know what I am up do...what I've been doing...have I done anything "crafty?"

Andrew "graduated" from 5th grade last week. It was an emotional week for me...lots of tears and big smiles. He was awarded the "Presidential Award for Academic Excellence" from President Obama. What a big honor! We are so proud of him. His last day of school was Monday...I've been on vacation this week to spend time with him. So far, his summer is off to a great start.

Monday after the kids got out of school, I took Andrew & his best friend JT to see "Karate Kid." I highly recommend this movie...it was great! On Tuesday Andrew & JT went to Six Flags to celebrate JT's 11th birthday. Wednesday we took our niece Mackenzie with us to Mystic Aquarium. Thursday...a walk and another birthday party...this time a pool party for Andrew's friend Jacob. Yesterday we played mini-golf in the afternoon after going out for lunch. Then we waited for Curti to get home and off to the fair in Goshen. Wow! Today, we are feeling a bit weary...Andrew has a bad cold/allergies so we are going to go see "Toy Story 3." Then off to church tonight for a dinner theater show.

I've also been busy in the "scrappin' studio." Here is what I've created:

Using the new "Snugglebug" collection from Little Yellow Bicycle, I created these two layouts.

And here are some others:

This "Goofy" layout is a class kit from my friend Diane Roule. Cute!

Well kids...that's all I've got for now. I'm off to the movies to see Woody & Buzz.

"To infinity...and beyond!"

It's A Basebal Kind Of Day...

2010-05-20T19:53:00.000-07:00

...around here. And that's true most days around here. Andrew has two practice days and two game days every week, on top of all of his band commitments and school work. I find myself scheduling my life around his schedule lately. Needless to say, I've taken a LOT of photos. Now it's time to get scrapping!

Here are some pics of Andrew's games:

Tomorrow we are off to Boston for his 5th grade field trip. And you know what that means...more photos!

Phew!

2010-05-11T09:51:00.000-07:00

Taking time out is such a challenge these days. My only real day to sit back & relax was this past Sunday on Mother's Day. After coming home from church, I put our roast in the oven, got into my jammies, cuddled up with a blanket & took the day off. Now THAT was a nice treat!

Every Mother's Day our church selects two moms from our congregation to honor as "Mother of the Year." When I asked my dearest friend Paula if she had decided who the lucky moms would be, she was still deciding. I suggested Adrienne, a woman who hs become my rock & my "big sister" over the past year or so. Paula agreed she was the perfect choice. Our only problem was how to guarantee that she would come to the service. Well, as things went along, Paula ended up telling Adrienne that I was picked as mom-of-the-year & that she needed to be at church to make sure I would be ok. So, she came, but boy was she ever surprised!

(Adrienne is the woman on the right with her back turned getting her flower pinned on by Pastor Mike. She is joined by family Paul, Hannah, Molly & Abby. Paula is standing in the back next to Pastor Mike smiling.)

So, as for the rest of our time, we have been trying to keep up with Andrew's busy schedule. Band practice and clarinet lessons, baseball and field trips, homework & school...life is a blur. Not to mention how busy I have been at work these past 3+ weeks. Doesn't leave me with much time for crafting...I tell you that!

Since the boys know how much I love country decor, they spent the afternoon in the garage making me FANTASTIC Mother's Day gifts. Andrew hand-sketched a heart, cut it out of wood with his dad, painted it, and created a coupon book for me:

And they made me this ladder complete with hand-sketched stars:

So, all in all, it's been a hectic but wonderful few weeks. My goal for the rest of the month is to get back into the swing of craftyland. Wanna come play with me??

A Little Bit Crafty

2010-04-13T18:25:00.000-07:00

As promised, here are some of the layouts I did this weekend:

This is my cover page for my 2007 album. I used some Fancy Pants papers - thought they were perfect for my boy sucking on a lemon!

This is a take from a page Debbie Fitz designed last year. She usually does one-pagers and I usually do two-pagers. So I just continued the theme to the other side. The paper is Bo Bunny.

Using the same papers, I put together this layout for my 1st car.

This is the current Kit of the Month at NESC. This kit was designed by our design team member Tracy.

Another Debbie Fitz creation. She made this layout as a Kit of the Month last summer. She used papers from Basic Grey & Core'dinations.

Now it's time to get my own mojo in gear & start creating some of my own designs. We'll see how I do! Happy crafting!

Not Exciting...Part 2

2010-04-12T05:52:00.000-07:00

Sleepover...the next morning. I dragged all the boys out for a walk. This is hubby's favorite place to go for a walk...White Memorial in Litchfield.

Easter Morning. Jake found the "Easter Bunny."

Andrew was happy with his goodies.

Just getting back from church service.

My brother made the "big save of the day" for the soccer game in the front yard.

Then it was back to work on Monday...and back to school for Andrew. Lots of homework, a field trip, tons of band practice and 3 rounds of baseball practice. Hubby had an MRI on Friday. All-in-all...a very busy week.

Andrew is on spring break and is spending the week at "Camp Grandma." Both hubby & I have to work. I was able to sneak out yesterday & spend some time with my friends and get some scrapping done. And then we finshed off the weekend with a last-minute picnic at Burr Pond with my friend Jen and her family.

So kids...that's all for now. I will be taking pics today of the layouts I did this weekend. And now, back to your regularly scheduled programming...

Enjoy the day! :)

I'm Not An Exciting Person...

2010-04-09T10:30:00.000-07:00

...but who is? Sometimes I get caught up in the "oh my goodness...what will I write about on my blog..." slump because I often feel like I have to show off or impress my readers. But then, I have some very good friends who say to me..."hey...you haven't posted to your blog in a while and I like reading what is going on in your life. Get on it and keep me up to date." It make me feel better that my friends want to know about me...and the boys...and about what I am up to...not about a "fake...having to impress people" entry. So, this is me, real life stuff, no bells & whistles, no "keeping up with Martha Stewart" blogging. I guess I'm the one who had better deal with it! :) So here's what's been goin' on:

I helped Andrew's 5th grade class organize a bake sale to help raise money for their end-of-year events. We raised $300 by selling cookies, brownies, popcorn...and juice. Note to self: cakeballs are NOT a good item for a bakesale...no one knows what they are.

Vanessa made me a gorgeous mini album. Every month we make each other something crafty, something pretty to give to each other. This was my March prize. I just love it!

Andew and his friend Kayla had a playdate. We have a wooded lot in back of our house where our brook runs. They were exploring the area and found lots of trash. They decided to be good "stewards" of Mother Earth & picked up bags & bags of trash. Let us take lessons from the 11 year olds of the world!

I took Good Friday off from work to spend the day with my boy. We took a walk around the reservoir between New Hartford & Canton. It was a gorgeous day to spend outside.

More signs of spring from my flower bed by the front door.

Another playdate. This time JT (Andrew's best friend) slept over. Burgers, milkshakes, s'mores...a good night to hang out!

Sticky faces!

Coloring eggs.

To be continued...

Bird Watching

2010-03-19T08:37:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to have my bird feeder up again...the ground was frozen when we moved back home and this was the 1st opportunity I've had to get it back out there. So, on my day off, I raked the front yard & put the feeder back out. And then I waited:

And it was worth it! Happy spring!

Newly Listed!

2010-02-27T17:10:00.000-08:00

Pretty Lil' Butterfly Embellishments:

These and other spring colors now listed in my Etsy Shop. Thanks for looking!

In Case You Didn't Know..

2010-02-25T20:20:00.000-08:00

...I like to make stuff. And although I may not blog all that often, I am always making something. So, without further delay...here's what I have made recently:

Oreo Pops. Look for the recipe here.

A 6" x 6" mini album. I used the Valentine Line from Bo Bunny.

I used the Bo Bunny refill pages from the 6" x 6" ring binder.

This is the layout I made a couple of weeks ago using Making Memories paper...I took another pic in better lighting.

And this was the scene on Tuesday from my front door:

The snow was so wet and heavy...look how it stuck to the branches of my burning bush.

We are drowning in rain at the moment, but the weather forecast is for a change in the temperature and more snow. Rumor has it that we'll get upwards of 8+ inches. Yikes!

Behind the scenes I have been sewing and tea staining up a storm. Andrew helped me stuff my lil' creations and all I have left to do is sew up the seams. I'll tackle that this weekend in between my work schedule and going to the gym.

Well kids...that's all from here. I'll be back soon with more tales from my studio! Stay tuned!

What A Day!

2010-02-10T18:24:00.000-08:00

So...due to the forecasted amounts of snow, we had no school today. As for the snow...well, it never showed. But we'll save that for another post!

Ok, back to a "no school day." Mackenzie came over to play with Andrew. After a rough start, she got settled in and watched some movies and played with Jake. He wore her out! Here they are taking a nap on the couch:

I don't know who was more tired!

I called my buddy Fitz (Debbie Fitz that is) and she got me thinking about how I haven't spent much time creating layouts for myself. So, after dinner, I snuck down to my studio & created a layout from some paper I bought from Two Peas:

I am not happy with my lighting...the layout came out very nice in real life...but you get the idea.

What do you think?

I have a bar in my studio that I hang layouts from, which I change from time to time. I had a blank spot:

So added the new layout to fill the hole.

And now my bar is complete!

Not only did I get to complete a layout, I made crock pot ribs, made applesauce muffins, baked a cake for cakeballs, did a load of laundry AND watched movies with Mac & Andrew. Mama is pooped!

And finally, my hubby called me to let me know that on his way home he was listening to the local 97.3 WZBG station & he was caller 4...which got him a Lil' Love Heart cake from Carvel! Woohoo! Go hunny go!

This is my Valentine's surprise! Thanks hunny!

Well...that was one busy day!

The 11th Anniversary of Giving Birth

2010-02-09T07:46:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was an exciting day here for one important reason: Andrew turned 11years old. Yikes! Where has the time gone?

He woke up so happy and excited...couldn't wait to get to school. He shared chocolate dipped rice krispie treats with his friends. It was also his day to present his "volcano" experiment to the class.

I took the day off from work to clean up, bake & wrap presents and to be home when he got off the bus. He requested a special cake:

Caramel Pecan Fudge Cake

A few gifts for him to open.

Just a lil' excited!

Nerf Blaster

Make a wish!

Great cake Mom! Great Birthday!

The Perfect Ending To My Day...

2010-02-02T07:19:00.000-08:00

...was coming home to a package on the table...for ME! Lookie what I bought from my friend Kim @ Valley Primitives:

They look perfect in my black iron bowl on my dining room table. Hubby was in bed when I got home from work, so I get to show him tonight. Thanks Kim! :)

Sunday we took Andrew & his best buddy to Ski Sundown for their 1st snowboarding lesson. They had a BLAST! Poor Mama's hands were frozen the whole time we were outside...but I did manage to get some great shots:

They were both exhausted and wanted hot chocolate when the lesson was finished. But they can't wait to go back again! Maybe in a couple of weeks!

Things are very busy at the store this week. Yesterday was Bus Tour registration and then we have the Scrapbook Summit this weekend. I am one busy Mama!

I Know...I Know...

2010-01-28T17:56:00.000-08:00

...I have been MIA for a while. 22 days. I know. And I don't have much to show for it either...well...nothing you can really see anyway. Behind the scenes there has been a lot going...but it's boring and not worth mentioning.

I did, however create a new Just Scrappin' Happy page kit. About time huh? I've only been promising new kits since I moved home from California. But hey...moving across the country & back takes a lot outta ya...and the transition back & forth had not been easy on my son. So I hope you all understand my spending extra time with him instead. Anyway, here it is:

I have it listed on my website for anyone that's interested. I think it's super cute!

Here's a fun lil' pumpkin I made at the store last week using a 3" scalloped circle punch:

Vanessa asked me to make an apple using red paper. That'll be her prize for this month along with this layout I made for her using the Love collection from LYB:

Every month we make each other something from our "stash." It's fun to get a little goodie from your friends...and it's even better when you don't spend any money to make and share! Maybe you have a buddy that you can exchange little prizes with every now & then. Be creative...use your stash...and have fun. Just like the "Hokey Pokey" that's what it's all about!

Bursting With Creative Inspiration!

2010-01-03T11:08:00.000-08:00

Today is a perfect day to stay home. The wind is blowin'...up to 50 mph winds...snow is flying and it is about 12 degrees out. Yes...the PERFECT day to stay home. Andrew has his friend Abby over for the afternoon and they just finished up lunch. They have played Wii, they have had a Nerf sword fight and now they are sitting upstairs getting their reading homework done. After that they will make some "break & bake" cookies. My roast is in the oven...Curti is napping on the couch...Jake is chewing on his ball...I am toasty wrapped up in my Snuggie. Life doesn't get any better!

Yesterday I had the opportunity to spend the day with some of my favorite "scrappy friends" at NESC. It was me, Michelle, Monique, Debbie & Vanna and we had a blast! So much fun laughing & scrapping.

It was the perfect opportunity to get caught on some much needed Scrap Can Do! work. We recently purchased a very cute paper line from Pink Paislee and we had the cutest "stamp" album from Maya Road. We will introduce the album on our blog on Monday but I thought I would share a lil' "sneak peak" with you:

I call it "Love Notes" and I was very pleased how well it came together. Some of the ladies who were at the store who saw me work on just loved it...that makes me happy. Vanna took the pictures today and the instructions are complete. I can't wait for the "formal" release!

Later today I think I'll work on another mini album...maybe the Maya Road tree album I have an idea for. Or maybe the baby album I started. Or the purse. Or...

Goodness...I have a lot to do! Enjoy your day...and stay warm!

Welcome 2010!

2009-12-31T20:55:00.000-08:00

From my family to yours, wishing you all a very Happy New Year!

Getting Back To Things...

2009-12-30T20:01:00.000-08:00

...after being away is sometimes so hard...for me. But I'm determined to "get my groove on" and get movin'! Many of you who follow me on Facebook know that I came down with the flu the week before Christmas. For those of you who don't follow me on Facebook, this explanation may explain why I have been M.I.A. here on my blog. Very sick...yes...but I have made a full recovery.

While I was sitting here in my "lazy chair" with nothing to do but sleep and feel bad, I decided to do a lil' something for my son. We have this nature reserve one town over from us where my family & I like to take nature walks. I have been going there since I was a teenager and just love it! I used pictures from a walk Andrew & I took in Oct. 2008 to create this lil' mini:

I was inspired by the pictures to use this fun line from DCWV. I based the cover on a similar album done by Angela Moen but used a Maya Road album instead because I thought it fit my pictures better. LOVE LOVE LOVE how it came out! Andrew loved it too, which made "Mama" VERY HAPPY!

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas (belated) and a joyous and peaceful New Year! Thanks for stopping by!

My FAVORITE Christmas special is...

2009-12-15T17:07:00.000-08:00

"A Charlie Brown Christmas"! I don't care how old I am or how often I watch it...it always puts me into the right mood. And it's such a gentle reminder of what this holiday season is all about. It's the best half hour of my day!

On the 13th Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

2009-12-13T21:41:00.000-08:00

some new goodies from my new friend Kim @ Valley Primitives. Here's what I got:

I loved the last stiched frame so much, I just had to get this one!

And this snowman stitched mat will look great with my collection! Thanks again Kim!

Today I spent the day with my girl buds at the store for our annual Christmas party/crop. I worked on a calendar for my mother-in-law most of the day and then started on my Christmas cards.

I used the idea from my handmade ornament. Using a snowflake punch, I punched out white and green snowflakes and arranged them in a circle. I added some red bling gems to some of the snowflakes and added a red grosgrain bow. I am very happy with how they turned out...elegant but not over-the-top. 4 cards down...26 to go!

On the 11th Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

2009-12-11T19:19:00.000-08:00

a 10 year old who still believes in Santa! Hey...I still believe in Santa...so...it's all cool.

This year Andrew has asked for (in addition to the usual Wii games, Nerf blasters, gift cards...etc) a puppet. Deb, our pastor's wife and the head of the Puppetude ministry at church helped me research some puppets and recommended this guy from Puppetville:

This is "Kenny". Isn't he cool? His legs are removable and he comes with an armrod. Hubby & I think he has a lot of character. His clothing is removable too, which makes him very versatile. I hope Andrew will like him...I know I do!

On the 10th Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

2009-12-10T20:17:00.000-08:00

a few days off from the computer!

"Wait...what is she saying?" Lemme explain. Instead of spending days 4, 5, 6...and so on talking and typing, I decided to spend some time doing. So...here's what we've been up to:

Saturday night we had our 1st real snowfall. I just love it when it snows at night and everyone has their Christmas lights on. This is a pic of our house (I took it from across the street.) Vanessa had to talk me thru how to use my night settings. It wasn't the kind of night to be setting up a tripod...so this was the best I could do.

This was the scene from our front door Sunday morning. Such a beautiful shot with the snow covered trees. Andrew couldn't wait to get outside and play!

Sunday afternoon Andrew had a puppet performance at one of the local nursing homes. He belongs to our puppet ministry at church...it is a group of kids headed up by our pastor's wife and they perform Christian holiday songs to our seniors and kids clubs/events throughout the year. He plays the black faced lamb in the this song. Check it out!

Monday hubby helped me finish "decking the halls." We made fudge and pecan turtle treats. And we had some tv time.

Tuesday I spent the evening working in the studio. I am making both of my sisters albums for Christmas. I hope they like them.

Wednesday we had another snow day. Andrew was home from school so we spent the day in our jammies and made cookies.

These reindeer cookies are made from peanut butter cookie dough and are decorated with pretzels for the antlers, a red M & M for the nose and mini morsels for the eyes.

Andrew had the best job...decorating the reindeer & licking the spoon!

Today was another busy day here in the Schimanski house. Tonight Andrew had his Winter Concert at school. We invited both Grammas to come and watch. Andrew was selected to perform "Jingle Bell Rock" with a few of the band students and the band teacher. He did such a great job!

It still amazes me how talented he is! And not just becasue I am his mama!! :)

Stay tuned for the 11th day of Christmas!

On the 4th Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

2009-12-04T21:47:00.000-08:00

...new handmade ornaments for my tree.

Did I mention how much I LOVE LOVE LOVE snowmen? These three cuties will look FAN-TAS-TIC on my tree! Thanks Valley Primitives! I love your shoppe!

And...lookie what else I got from her:

This lil' frame will look really nice in my kitchen. I can't wait!

On the 3rd Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

2009-12-03T18:56:00.000-08:00

a *giggle*...watching you lick a spoon.

Andrew and I had such fun tonight making "cakeball treats" for his band Christmas party tomorrow. I dipped while he added the most important ingredient...SPRINKLES!

Yes...they ARE as yummy as they look!

This is the finished batch for school in the morning.

Am I a cool mom or what??!!

I made the following holiday ornament for the employee tree at the store:

I cut out several snowflakes from a Sizzix die in both white and blue. I adhered a layer of white snowflakes followed by a layer of blue onto a "wreath" circle cut out. I added a third layer of snowflakes (white) and added a blue/silver ribbon bow at the bottom. I embellished a few of the white snowflakes with pearls and added a silver tie at the top. Kinda cute huh? I think so. It certainly got my "creative juices" flowin'!

On the 2nd Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

2009-12-02T05:54:00.000-08:00

...a painting of three snowmen...singing!

Andrew's school publishes their artwork on Artsonia...a public site for schools to showcase young artists and their artwork. He has had several items showcased on this site...this is the 1st piece for this year. So cute! When this one comes home I'm taking it over to Michael's to have framed.

Today I am thankful for a sleeping puppy under the tree. December Daily...Day 2.

On the 1st Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

2009-12-01T19:19:00.000-08:00

...a decorated Christmas tree. Yip...my two honeys decorated our tree last night while I was working downstairs in the studio.

It was so wonderful this morning to wake up to the tree already done on the 1st day of December. Some of you may be follwing Ali Edwards this month while completing your own "December Daily." I have decided to do my own version and take a picture each day that brings joy to my heart about this wonderful holiday season. Here is my 1st one:

Each ornament on our tree is a snowman. This is one of my favorites. He chunky-grubby with a carrot nose...can he be any cuter?

This week I started getting the itch to make something "Christmasy." I took the chipboard Christmas keychain from Maya Road and decorated them. Take a look:

Candy cane with red Stickles. I used the Fiskars holly punch and added a red button.

I covered the tree with green swirl paper from Reminisce and added red bling jewels.

I covered the ornament with red Bazzill, used an EK Success circle punch to punch out a center from Imaginise paper, added a title, star and button to complete. These sure got me into the Christmas spirit!

New Format

2009-11-18T14:48:00.000-08:00

I was getting bored with the how my blog was looking. Thought I would "jazz it up" with a template from Butterflygirlms Blog Design. I picked this one out from her many designs...and thought it fit. I like the "stretch" feature that she offers...it fills up the page so that all the little "buttons" are evenly spaced throughout. Let me know what you think! :)

"Touchtones..."

2009-11-14T19:50:00.000-08:00

...so the printer is broken. And Vanessa is trying to help me fix it. And the radio is playing....and I hear the "touchtones." So I say...to Vanessa..."touchtones". And she continues to work on the printer. And then a few seconds go by...still the printer. Then she picks up the phone. She calls 96.5 fm. And the D.J. answers..."what are you doin?" And she says..."what are YOU doin??" And she wins! WINS! Freakin' Vanessa!

And the printer is still broken.

(But she is giving me the tix...cuz she doesn't like Daughtry.)

So hubby is taking our son to see Daughtry.

Thanks Vanessa! :P

Imaginisce Design Team Call

2009-10-27T09:52:00.000-07:00

So...can I tell you that Imaginisce is one of my FAVORITE scrapbooking lines? I fell in love with the company last fall with the release of their Halloween line. And the rest is history.

Early this month, Imaginisce announced on their blog that they were looking for scrappers to join their design team. I was SO EXCITED!!! The deadline was yesterday and you had to submit 3 projects, a layout, a card and a project of choice...so I submitted the following:

I hope that they pick ME! :) Wish me luck!

When I do it...

2009-10-15T17:57:00.000-07:00

...I do it up BIG!!! So, by now I am sure you have all heard that my family & I moved back here to CT. My hubby was offered a job here in CT on a Monday afternoon...we packed up the car with all of our crap, our kid & pup and left Tuesday at 5:30am. We pulled into my mother-in-law's in Bristol at 9:43pm on Friday night and the rest is history! Since then it has been a whirlwind trying to get back in the swing of things but I can tell you it was all worth it! We are so happy to be home!

When you get the chance, stop by NESC...you'll find me there...right behind the counter...where I always used to be. Lynn & Sue have taken me back & I can't be any happier! Have a great week! :)

So...Where Ya Been??

2009-10-01T17:22:00.000-07:00

I've been here...in sunny CA...trying to get some kind of schedule together. Things have been busy at my store with the big sale last week. I have been trying to work on class samples, page kits, page kits for Just Scrappin' Happy, Scrap Can Do! kits, work, take care of Andrew, etc etc etc. Never enough hours in the day. All while trying to survive out here with no family...no friends. I can tell you...it's hard.

Thankfully, my gals back home at NESC are letting me continue to work for them 3000 miles away by letting me be a part of the Kit of the Month (KOTM) program. Here is the sample I did for October:

I know there will only be a few kits available once they prepare for the pre-sold kits, so if you want one, don't delay.

Things are CRAZY 'round here...

2009-09-10T19:11:00.000-07:00

I know...I'm not the only mom trying to get back into the swing of things with the start of school. But this school year is especially hard...not just for Andrew. Although, I do have to say that he is dealing with things VERY well. He has already made some new friends. And they play soccer in recess...which he just loves.

This is Andrew with his "Nana." She is a teacher in his school (4th grade...he's in 5th.) So they ride in together. Love this pic.

So what's MY problem?? Well...all new papers to fill out, forms, different rules and procedures. Different times. Different everything. It's taking me some time to get it all together, not to mention working at the new store and learning their policies & procedures. Sure, the scrapping is the easy part. It's just everything else to learn. I'm not complaining...just trying to keep it all straight.

Wokring hard on my lil' business. Trying to get new kits added to my site soon. I'll keep you updated as they are released.

Next, it's on to new Scrap Can Do Kits. Vanessa & I are busy planning new designs with all new product lines. Fancy Pants, SEI, Pine Cone Press...we've got BIG plans! Look for new releases later this fall.

It's Official!

2009-09-02T18:32:00.000-07:00

Come see my new site!!!

www.justscrappinhappy.com

New page kits just added!

Someone is giving Vanna "the bird..."

2009-09-02T00:25:00.001-07:00

When I moved out to CA, I thought it would be fun to do a "page swap" with Debbie B. (my friend and colleague from NESC.) She jumped on the idea and we have had a great time thinking of themes and trading pages. I wanted to do a swap with Vanessa too, but she rarely scraps. BUT she makes other LOVELY crafty-type items (to see click HERE.) So instead of a "page swap" Vanessa and I are doing a crafty "prize swap." And this month, I am giving her "the bird."

I kill myself laughing...

One Kit Left!

2009-08-17T17:27:00.001-07:00

Ok kids...only one left. I am *THRILLED* at the response to the page kits. The Bo Bunny line was fun to work with and I can't believe I have almost sold out.

Gearing up for my second kit...found some lovely holiday paper from Melissa Francis that I just HAD to play with. And I think that it's never too early to get holiday pages done...or perhaps catch up on past years. I'll post later this week when it becomes available.

Vanessa and I are also gearing up for new Scrap Can Do! releases. Our previous kits have had great response...so well that we are down to our last few. New releases this fall include a "Disney-type" album, new baby albums, a "berry sweet" album and more. Look for the new "travel" album to be released later this month. I'm tired already just THINKING about it!

Looks like I'll be busy for a while. Happy Scrappin'!!

And...So How Did It Go?

2009-08-12T17:32:00.001-07:00

Let me tell you...

The owner of the store is fantastic...she's a peach to work for! I feel right at home with all of the paper and embellies and ribbon. There are (of course) things I have to learn...like the register (we use different software than what I am used to), where things are, store polices, etc. But all in all, it's just grand.

Today I helped this nice lady (she's 80 but doesn't look a day over 65!) help start her scrapbooking adventure. She had never done scrapping before but wanted to put together something with her pics from the pageant she was just in. (CA is so different from back east!) We have one-on-one sessions that a person can sign up for, and since there were 3 of us on today (and me being the newbie) I was asked to help her out by the owner. What a sweet lady! But I felt confident & comfortable helping her start her book.

I talked with the owner about teaching classes and she was excited about the idea. I will be teaching in Sept and the woman I helped today wants to sign up already! I think I'll continue to teach once a month...just like at NESC. :)

For only working 4 hours and being all excited...I am pooped!

AND...I have only 2 more Just Scrappin' Happy Page Kits left...so hurry on over here if you still want one...cuz they're going...going...going...

Getting Back To Work

2009-08-11T20:31:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, my vacation is finally over. I am rejoining the work force and starting my new position at the scrapbook store here in CA. I can't explain how excited I am to be getting back to work...a little anxious too because it will be different from NESC. But I treated myself to a crop on Friday night and was pleasantly surprised at how "at home" I felt already. (But I did call Vanna to "check in" and talk "cropping." AND I was Facebooking Debbie.) But I met some new gals who were very friendly. I think I'm gonna be ok! :)

Tune in tomorrow to see how I did!

AND...for those of you who have asked...I am now offering "Just Scrappin' Happy" Page Kits. I have listed my 1st kit here. Same great design efforts (by yours truly), same great detailed instructions and a color photo. Plus I offer FREE SHIPPING! I have a limited number of kits available, so don't delay!

Sunny CA

2009-07-22T13:31:00.000-07:00

Just checking in to let you all know we are having a fabulous time here in sunny California. The first few days we spent getting ourselves settled and we did some driving around to get ourselves used to the area. Then, on Sunday, we spent the day at Disneyland. Andrew had the best time! There was hardly any waiting for rides and the weather was perfect!

My husband's father and his wife have been so loving and caring with our transition. They have made it easy for us to make ourselves at home.

Friday we fly back east to pick up Jake, finalize some personal things and visit with family & friends once more before we make the trek across the U.S. to our new home. We are excited about our upcoming adventures. I am planning on taking MANY pics along the way...including all of the CORN FIELDS (*giggle*)! *corn corn corn corn*...

As far as employment...you'll never guess what I have landed...a job at our local SCRAPBOOK STORE! Well, it's not final yet...I'll know definitely tomorrow whether or not I have the job...how how great would that be? Can you imagine...me...working at a SCRAPBOOK STORE? Life is GRAND!

Check back soon to see what we're up to...sending love & hugs to you all!

How Do You Say Goodbye...

2009-07-09T11:35:00.000-07:00

...to the people and places that you've known your whole life? Let me back up...

Sometimes life throws you a curve ball...out of nowhere. And that curve ball changes the dynamic of your life. And with that comes choices. Choices that you have to make to survive and protect your family. So, we made some choices.

Today is my last "official" day at New England Scrapbook Co. My family is moving to CA (as in California) later this month. It's hard to believe that I was only at NESC for 2 years...it feels like a lifetime. I couldn't have asked for better employers, better colleagues, better customers...or better friends. How many people can honestly say that they love their job and the people they work for. My tenure at the store was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. And to leave it behind leaves a big hole in my heart.

So many of you have had the chance to say goodbye to me while others of you are just finding out. What I have to say now - I say to ALL of my family & friends...you never know how much people mean to you until you leave them. I carry all of you in my heart...now and always.

I'll be updating my blog with news & events of our trip to CA and once we get settled. I hope you will continue to follow my adventures even though I'll be on the opposite coast. Many of my "scrappy" friends have asked me to continue to post pics of my layouts & have even gone so far as to request that I still make "Designer Series" kits once I get settled. Please keep me & my family in your prayers as we embark on this new and exciting journey. I miss and love you all.

Sad News

2009-06-18T19:11:00.000-07:00

I try and keep on top of my "electronic socializing" by updating Facebook, Twitter, my personal blog, my biz blog, etc. And in the course of doing so tonight I found very sad news:

I am a bit of a news junky, so this was very upsetting to me. I can only hope for the best.

These are the moments that make me smile!

2009-06-03T18:03:00.001-07:00

This kid just cracks me up! Coach Jack was juggling baseballs around tonight during the practice session right before the game. So what does Andrew do? While I am on the phone with hubby, Andrew decides HE wants to "teach himself how to juggle" just like Coach Jack. Meanwhile, the dog wants in on the action too, because afterall...those are HIS balls. So everytime Andrew drops the balls, Jake is right there to fetch them. This would make any Momma smile!

New Designer Kits Now Available!

2009-06-03T09:48:00.000-07:00

We've been busy making new Designer Series Kits. Hop on over to the store before they sell out!

Busy Little Bees

2009-06-02T05:44:00.000-07:00

Vanessa & I are gearing up for our upcoming workshop on June 14th at New England Scrapbook Co. We are teaching two sessions...a travel kit in the morning and a family kit in the afternoon. Hope you can join us for one (or both!) Here is a "sneak" of the morning class:

So...It Was My Birthday...

2009-05-15T17:56:00.000-07:00

...on Wednesday. And instead of spending the day celebrating the BIG 3-5, I was laid up with this darn illness. So NOT how I wanted to spend my day. Thankfully, my family & I have already made other plans to celebrate. Next weekend, we are combining my birthday, my hubby's birthday, Mother's Day & Father's Day and we are taking off to VT. We will leave after Andrew's game on Saturday & stay the night in Springfield, VT. Then, Sunday morning we are off to visit Burlington, VT and the famouos Ben & Jerry's factory! Yippee! I have always wanted to go! (My favorite flavor is in the "graveyard"...) We are looking forward to a weekend of fun & relaxation.

In other news, Vanna & I are getting geared up to create 2 new Scrap Can Do! kits for an exclusive NESC workshop. Be sure to visit the blog for details! We just received new shipment and can't wait to get "crafty."

I'm Sick...Did You Know?

2009-05-14T13:48:00.000-07:00

Bronchitis, major sinus infection, laryngitis, allergies. Yikes! I am on the mend, but I can tell you I am exhausted.

I have listed a couple new things in my Etsy shop this week. Here's a sneak peek:

Look for more great creations coming to my shop soon!

New Designer Series Available @ NESC

2009-05-06T17:38:00.000-07:00

I love putting together new layouts for our Designer Series @ the store. We had a customer request for a "baseball" themed layout. I had taken some pics of Andrew playing 1st base this past Saturday & thought the color scheme of this line from Best Creations was perfect! There are a limited number of these kits available, complete with color photo and instructions so hurry in...they won't last!

Fun in Philly

2009-04-29T13:05:00.000-07:00

We had such a great time visiting Philly this past weekend. This shot is the clock tower on Independence Hall. Another tourist visiting the area came over to me while I was taking this shot and told us that on the news the night before he saw they (the city) was fixing this clock later this summer & it was a good thing I got the pic when I did because soon there would be scaffolding up. I think it's a great shot!

These two markers gave me goosebumps when I saw them. To be standing in the exact spot were each of these men gave speeches just blew me away.

Next we went to the cemetery where Benjamin Franklin and his wife are buried. Again, goosebumps.

Such amazing history. It helps align your thinking and it shows you what matters in your life.

There has to be a better word than "STRESS"

2009-04-28T05:05:00.000-07:00

to describe what I am feeling. Overload? Mania? Running in place? You get the idea. I feel this huge sense of neglect and total chaos in my life right now. And it's hard to know what to do to change that.

You ever feel like you are neglecting your kids? It is a feeling I hate most of all. Last night after I blew up at my husband and son (we'll get to that later) I was drained. Just drained. And it had been a nice time before yesterday afternoon. Let me back up.

Work was really crazy last week...trying to get ready for the Summit is always challenging. By the end of the week I was FRIED! Saturday morning I had to squeeze in a couple of hours at the store to cover until Vanna could arrive. And I was in danger of missing Andrew's opening day of baseball. I walked out the door as soon as Vanna got there and made it to baseball on time. But I had had enough. I decided last minute to take the family and drive to Philly for the weekend, right after Andrew's game. And we had a great time.

Then comes Monday. Andrew is off to school, Curtis & I off to work. I came home. They came home. We went out, came back. My house was neglected...time to start cleaning. To my surprise...I was the only one doing anything. That's when I blew up. And we all know how that goes...

So, after I cool down, they start pitching in...you know the routine. Andrew & I are upstairs in his room and I see the puppet he made in school. I ask him how come he didn't show it to me when I asked him what he did. He tells me that he thought I wouldn't be interested in it...he says that I am always working. My heart broke. And the guilt flooded over me.

My nerves are raw, my head pounds, my heart aches. I have let things and people get in my way of being there for my son when he needs me...even if it is just to show me things he made in school, or tell me about his day or about the book he is reading. All I can say is I've had enough. And changes are on the way...

Busy Times In the Scrap Can Do! Design Studio...

2009-04-16T17:44:00.000-07:00

So many of you have asked about new Scrap Can Do! kits..."when are new ones going to be available, what kits are you releasing...etc." Here's a "sneek-peek" of one of our new kits available next week:

This one, titled "Happiness" combines the fun tag album from Maya Road with the "Cold Raspberry" soup line from Jillibean Soup. The kit is filled with fun papers from the Jillibean line, along with plenty of fun embellishments, ribbons, buttons and more. Stay tuned for more Scrap Can Do! news and be sure to visit the official blog!

And the winner is...

2009-04-06T13:24:00.000-07:00

..."BarefootFairyMum" from the land of the Fiskateers! (I had my son choose the winner by picking a number.) You my dear have won a Stampin' Up! stamp set! (Please email me with your info so I can get the set out to you.)

Today, I subjected myself to the QueenVanna sweatshop. She has a HUGE wholesale order to finish up for the University of Alabama, so I took a drive over to her neck of the woods to put together some magnet packs and decoupage clothespins. We had fun laughin' and eatin' and craftin' our cares away.

Get ready for more Scrap Can Do! projects coming later this month. Check out the blog for upcoming events, album kits & the like. AND...check out our contest! So much fun...it's hard to contain it all!

I don't usually do this...

2009-04-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

...(steal a post from another blog) but I thought this was an excellent idea!

So, I wanted to share it with all of you! You can find her blog post here and see how she keeps all of her ablums organized with what is inside of them. This is perfect for those of you who love to use the same type of album or the same color album for all of your scrapbooks. Try it and let me know how it works for you.

Have you seen this one yet?

2009-04-02T19:56:00.000-07:00

If you haven't seen Slumdog Millionaire yet, I highly recommend it. And a box of tissues. And someone to watch it with. And be prepared. I am exhasuted...extremely intense but WELL WORTH IT!

Hello...Is Anyone Out There?

2009-04-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

Let's play a game. I love games.

This games means you have to do some work. (Don't worry...it won't hurt or take too long...I promise.)

How many of you are out there reading my posts? How often are you checking my blog? Am I one of your favs? If you have your own blog, am I listed on your reading list?

Post a comment here on my blog by Friday, April 3rd (I'll give you till midnight) and I'll choose a winner at random to win a Stampin' Up! stamp set from the new catalog. The post doesn't have to be fancy or long, just a quick hi, maybe a note and perhaps why you would love a stamp set.

See...that didn't hurt, did it? :)

Alissa Stopped by for a Visit Today...

2009-03-31T19:34:00.000-07:00

...and she brought the baby! What a lil' sweetie pie she is...and only 7 weeks old! I finally got to hold her for a bit...and it was hard letting her go back to Mama. For April's Kit of the Month at NESC, Alissa created this BEAUTIFUL layout with recent pictures of the baby. I have to tell you: there are only 4 kits remaining so if your interested in getting one of these adorable kits, please call the store or stop on in tomorrow...they are sure to be gone very soon!

(April KOTM)

What's that quote from "The Music Man"?

2009-03-30T19:10:00.000-07:00

"That's my son!"

Just look at him! Ten years old; his 1st band concert; lookin' sharp! I am a PROUD momma! I even have the scrapbook materials picked out for this page. *Sniff* Kind of makes me a little sad...he's growing up too fast!

Stupid Bug!

2009-03-28T14:10:00.001-07:00

I spent the better part of this past week on my bum...in bed...sick as a dog! I dunno what I had or who gave it to me but boy let me tell you it was a doozie! Finally, finally I feel almost human again. I never want to go thru that again!

With the sunshine this week and the warmer temps, I have been inspired to get workin' on some more projects. I have some ideas for new layouts, new Scrap Can Do! kits and some things to list in my Etsy store. Catch up with me again this week for an update. Until then, I'll leave you with this:

(Magnets from my online store)

More From Scrap Can Do!

2009-02-19T16:41:00.001-08:00

These two kits, designed by Vanessa, are just too precious. She used paper lines from one of her favorite scrapbook companies, October Afternoon. Both are filled with beautiful embellishments, ribbons, buttons, and more.

For you animal lovers, I have created the Go Wild! album seen here:

This just makes me smile!

2009-02-18T17:38:00.000-08:00

This is one of four new releases from Vanessa & I at Scrap Can Do! You can see all our our kits on our site, or, if you're in the area, you can stop by NESC and take a look. We have had such an overwhelming response that we can hardly keep our excitement contained. We currently have 15 kits available; something for everyone! And, this weekend we are getting ready to purchase materials for our next release, due out in early spring. I just can't wait!

Two Posts in One Night?

2009-02-12T18:39:00.001-08:00

Who can stand it?

Anyway, I wanted to get the word out about the fun class we held a couple of weekends ago at NESC. A group of girls from Loomis, a private school in Windsor stopped by for a private class. We had such fun making an 8" x 8" mini album. Click on my Flickr page to see additional photos from the day.

Valentine's Celebration at School

2009-02-12T18:03:00.000-08:00

What do you do when your child is about to bring home 20+ Valentine's from his friends at school? Last year, I remember shopping for cards and candy the night before the school party & thinking, "why did I wait?" Then, when he came home from school, all his little cards & candy were shoved into a very plain ol' brown lunch bag. Not even some stickers to decorate the front. Yuck! So, this year, I decided that we would still give the ol' brown paper lunch bag a go, but give it some pizazz. So, after dinner, Andrew & I sat down to make 20+ Valentine card bags for tomorrow's school party:

Taking Time To Catch Up

2009-01-29T15:48:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that two weeks have flown by since my last post. It feels like a whirlwind! I decided that the finshed basement was better suited to my crafting needs than the guest bedroom. So, I packed up my belongings & moved downstairs. Wow...what a difference! I have space, space & more space! Tons of space to hold all of my creative passions! As of now, I am still in my "unpacking" stages, but as soon as I get settled in, I'll post pics of my new home.

This week's challenge is trying to accomplish all that is on my list. I have several items on my upcoming calendar, including (most importantly) Andrew's 10th birthday. Yes, TENTH birthday! I feel so old! I remember those last few days before he graced our family just like it was yesterday. Oh, how time has flown!

In an effort to celebrate Valentine's Day, I have created a couple of layouts using the new Heidi Grace & Cloud 9 lines from Fiskars. Take a peek & tell me what you think:

I've been TAGGED!

2009-01-19T05:25:00.001-08:00

So Miss Queen Vanna has tagged my blog with the the "I {Heart} Your Blog" award. So sweet of her to think of me. (Really she did this so I would have more things to do, cuz she knows I don't have ENOUGH already.) But she knows I love her blog too!

I am now supposed to answer the following questions with a one word answer:
1. Where is your cell phone? purse 2. Where is your significant other? working
3. Your hair color? blonde
4. Your mother? working
5. Your father? heaven
6. Your favorite thing? snuggles
7. Your dream last night? shopping (for Wii)
8. Your dream/goal? travel
9. The room you’re in? cluttered
10. Your hobby? crafty
11. Your fear? pain 12. Where do you want to be in six years? here
13. Where were you last night? home
14. What you’re not? greedy
15. One of your wish list items? organization
16. Where you grew up? Torrington 17. The last thing you did? email Vanna
18. What are you wearing? jammies
19. Your TV? off
20. Your pet? Jake
21. Your computer? on
22. Your mood? groggy
23. Missing someone? yes
24. Your car? navy
25. Something you’re not wearing? pantyhose
26. Favorite store? scrapbook
27. Your Summer? busy
28. Love someone? always
29. Your favorite color? blue
30. When is the last time you laughed? yesterday
31. Last time you cried? monday

Now I have to pass this award along to other worthy bloggers...but none of my other friends (you know who you are!) have blogs. Only Vanna. So, this week's challenge is to find some new "Blog Friends." Stay tuned!

Upcoming Classes at NESC

2009-01-10T08:51:00.000-08:00

I had plans to go over my friend Sue's last night to crop with friends. But, after packing my bag & deciding which jammies to wear (it was a pj crop), my puppy decides he has other plans. He spent the day sick, which left me having to stay home to "clean up" after him. It was not pretty. So, instead of going out, I had to adjust my plans. Here's what I have been up to:

I am spending the weekend getting ready for upcoming classes I am teaching at NESC.

This is for my "Daytime Scrapping" class in February. You can catch the details on the NESC calendar.

And later this month I am teaching Disney Autogragh Book class.

Looks like another storm is a-brewin' and I'll be indoors while we get 8"-12" of snow by tomorrow. But I have plenty to keep me busy.

A Scrap Challenge

2009-01-07T17:56:00.000-08:00

Here is a post I found from http://just-a-scrappin.blogspot.com:

"Our calendars are being formed for the new month so right now, get it out and write in at least one hour a week for designated scrapbooking time. Yes you can find it. It is there. Plan for it. Write it in and DO it. SO you have to give up reruns of CSI or Friends....No more wishful thinking....grab that time before it slips away. Make your time work for you. Use those supplies like papers and stickers. Zip out a few pages. Your family really does NOT want to have to dispose of 3 carts full of paper at an estate sale after you are gone....They would much rather look over your finished albums full of treasured memories. Ü"

And this is why I am scrapping a layout a day. Today, I completed 3 more:

These stem from a page kit from Sarah Milne of Scenic Route. She was teaching a class back in September at the CKC Convetion in Hartford. Vanna & I were her TA's. She was so thoughtful. For all of our hard work, she rewarded us with this lovely class kit! Three more layouts...DONE! (I am ahead one layout for the month...woohoo me!)

Scrappin Happy

2009-01-03T20:17:00.000-08:00

It was a productive day! I wasn't able to get quite as many layouts done as I had originally hoped, but I did manage to create a few while cropping with my friends today. Here are some of the pages I completed:

My friend Debbie, a teacher at NESC created these pages last year for some of her classes. I just adore her work!

Here are a couple more:

My hope for tomorrow is to get photos on them, some journaling & Wa La!

*Editor's Note*:

I inadvertently left out my DEAR FRIEND Vanessa's name from my earlier post. Vanna, if you are reading this blog, PLEASE FORGIVE ME! Vanna was one of the friends I cropped with at NESC today. :)

Happy 2009!

2009-01-02T20:42:00.000-08:00

Out with the old & in with the new, so they say. But I want some of the 'old' to stay. This year is all about balance for me...work, home, life, love, passions, wants and needs. And on the 2nd day of the new year, things are off to a pretty good start.

We started out the year by re-arranging Andrew's room. "Santa" brought him a brand new desk, one that can accommodate his computer and still give him some homework room. In order to fit all of the furniture in, we had to move his bed and bookshelf around and put the desk in a different corner from the original. But everyone seems happy with the new configuration and hopefully this will help Andrew keep his things in order. We shall see...

Next, I have been hard at work creating new designs for Scrap Can Do! Some late nights & some early mornings have been the only times when I have had opportunity to work (considering I have my full-time gig at NESC and managing things here at home.) And despite my lack of sleep, I have managed to create a couple of cute new mini albums. Vanessa & I will be updating our site, newsletter and Etsy sites early next week. Check things out when you get a chance.

Another goal for me this year is to scrap 365 layouts, one for each day of the year. I have set aside a bit of time tomorrow to start that goal and my hope is to get 12 layouts completed. I'll let you know how that turns out. I also have a full plate this month, since I am teaching a few classes and have a lot of design work to get done. I think it would be fun to post some of my designs here on my blog so you can follow along with what I am up to. If you want to see, be sure to check back often!

To all of my family & friends, have a happy, safe and healthy new year! Much love! xoxxoxox

Hooray for Us!

2008-12-11T18:35:00.000-08:00

Queen Vanna and I were both featured today here:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=26423

How exciting! Take a peek!

Taking time to make some gifts for family & friends...

2008-12-10T18:46:00.000-08:00

Isn't he just the cutest? Believe it or not, I made this lil' "snowman guy" for under $5.00! All you need is a large clothespin, some cardstock, a black marker, a white pen, some buttons and some adhesive. Add some white paint and a scrap of cloth & you've got yourself an inexpensive, fun & adorable gift or keepsake. I got my supplies at (none-other-than) New England Scrapbook Company. And if you want to make your own, stop by to pick up the supplies. We have a sample on display...just ask at the desk. Your friends and loved ones will just go crazy over these "snowman guys." :)

Where does the time go?

2008-11-20T18:30:00.000-08:00

It seems like only yesterday that I had things in order...keeping up on all that goes on in my life. As you can see from the date of my last blog post, not so. Things creep up, take over, new challenges come to the foreground...but here I am at last. (I know you've been patiently waiting!)

After trying and giving up (for what seems like 100 times) I have made a commitment to change my health. Each day I will post a pic of the healthy choices I am making. I call it "Weight Loss 365." Take a peek.

Vanna & I have been hard at work at Scrap Can Do! designing and previewing new kits for the gift-giving season. We had a very sucessful weekend in conjunction with NESC and Becky and Sandy at the Scrapbook Summit. We made lots of new friends, caught up with some old ones, and worked our little fingers to the bone. Stay tuned for our December releases!

There is much work to be done...so I need to get going! New projects are on the horizon...and they won't get done sitting on my work table without some help from me. Ciao!

A Beautiful Night Sky

2008-10-15T16:52:00.001-07:00

A beautiful fall moon in the eastern sky above my house...I love nights like these!

This is why I scrapbook...

2008-10-11T18:35:00.001-07:00

He is having such a hard time adjusting to life this year. So many new responsibilities...so many new opprotunities...he struggles to remain innocent and young. As I watched him today on our little adventure thru White Memorial, I saw a little boy trying so desperately to find his place in the world. He wants to play, watch cartoons, ride his bike. But he has homework, reading, clarinet lessons, soccer practice, puppet practice and on top of all that he is in the TAG (Talented & Gifted) program, which affords him the opportunity of great learning and experiments above & beyond what is available in the classroom. But even with all that on his plate, he is just a little boy...still a little boy...my little boy. I am in love with this little boy. I hope he can hang on to whatever is left of the boyhood he has while the rest of the world tries to take it away. Someday it will be all a sweet memory...

Something that caught my attention...

2008-10-10T17:27:00.000-07:00

Crafty Christy

2008-10-08T17:32:00.001-07:00

I had a blast making a couple new crafty things, which can be seen on my Etsy Site. This adorable spider to too cute to be spooky! If you get a chance, check 'em out!

In other crafty news, I just finished up a layout today for my Daytime Scrapping class over at NESC. The layout is beautiful (if I do say so myself) and I am excited to be able to teach it next week. I already have 8 sign-ups for the class!

I have big plans for this weekend...making more of these cute "BOO" ornaments, finishing up some personal layouts, working on Scrap Can Do!, and hopefully working on some things for a couple of craft fairs coming later this year. Lots of work to get done!! Not to mention things like getting Andrew's Halloween costume, laundry, soccer, church, etc. etc. etc...