It's My Life.......

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-17T00:00:00.001-04:00

Being an from an Irish family, St. Patrick's Day is a very special day in our house. We even get presents!! My father created a character similar to the Easter Bunny and Santa Clause that comes on St. Patrick's Day, Michael the Leprechaun. Michael comes and hides little treats around us the house for us to find. Even as adults my brother, sister and I go to my parents house to look for goodies from Michael. That being said, I could let a holiday as important as St. Patrick's Day go by without sending cards to family members. Of course that card had to be hand stamped, I don't really like any of the St. Patrick's Day sets in the catalog so I had to take matters into my own hands.

Wishing everyone a happy St. Patrick's Day!!
Cead Mile Failte

Don't you just love a bargain?

2009-03-15T02:14:00.004-04:00

JOIN Stampin' UP! - NEW 3 Easy Payment Plan!

Three Easy Payments Option for the Starter Kit is Here!

Is your Stampin' Up! wish list too long or too expensive? Here is the simple solution to that problem, sign up to be a demonstrator with the 100% customizable starter kit and get up to 40% off all your future orders!!

This economy has everyone thinking about how they can earn extra money for the families. Now is the perfect time to start your own business and Stampin' Up! has just made it affordable. Join my team today and take advantage of this super offer. You will have the freedom to run your own business, create your own hours, and earn money all while doing what you love - Rubber Stamping. It is a great opportunity to share what you love with others and help your family out financially. Did you know you can be a demonstrator and NEVER host a workshop, that's right, you can be your own best customer if you want. Heck, you can be even be your ownly cusotmer if you want.

From today through April 30, 2009, new recruits can take advantage of our Three Easy Payments option for their Starter Kit. If you have considered becoming a demonstrator, but are concerned about being able to pay for the Starter Kit in one up-front payment, worry no more! The Three Easy Payments option is the ideal solution! With just an initial partial payment, you can get your Starter Kit right away and start building your business. Two subsequent monthly payments will take care of the rest.

Now is the time to sign up! With the discounted Sale-A-Bration Starter Kit price and the Three Easy Payments option, you'll have the opportunity to take advantage of two great financial benefits at once. Once Sale-A-Bration is over, you'll still have through April 30 to get the Three Easy Payments option, but why wait?

Please note that this promotion for the Three Easy Payments option is only available to new recruits when the Starter Kit form and other paperwork is mailed to Stampin' Up!. This special offer is NOT available online.If you'd like to take advantage of this special offer of Three Easy Payments for the Starter Kit, please Email me and I'll send the contract and other forms directly to your email.

Payments Breakdown for the Sale-A-Bration Starter Kit Price (March 13-31, 2009)
Starter Kit Payment (Payment Charged*)

Payment 1 (charged at time kit is entered)
$56.34 (+ sales tax)
Payment 2 (charged around April 15th)
$56.33
Payment 3 (charged around May 15th)
$56.33
Total Payment
$169.00 (not bad considering you are getting over $300 worth of merchandise)

*Payments indicated are for the cost of the Starter Kit. They do not include and any applicable state taxes. (Please note that any applicable taxes for the total amount of the Starter Kit, price will be added to the first payment.)

Payments Breakdown for the Regular Starter Kit Price (April 1-30, 2009)
Starter Kit Payment (Payment Charged*)

Payment 1 (charged at time kit is entered)
$66.34 (+ sales tax)

Payment 2 (charged around May 15th)
$66.33

Payment 3 (charged around June 15th)
$66.33

Total Payment
$199.00 (still a great value considering it is over $300 worth of Stampin' Up! merchandise)

*Payments indicated are for the cost of the Starter Kit including shipping. They do not include any applicable state taxes. (Please note that any applicable taxes for the total amount of the Starter Kit price will be added to the first payment.)

Please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions you might have I will be happy to answer any of your questions or concerns. Stampin' Up! has an amazing support system and training program that can help you to build your business.

I can't wait to hear from you.

In Full Floom

2009-03-14T00:00:00.001-04:00

If only Spring weather would come and stay I would be a much happier person. This weather has been a real tease, I am done with winter and over the snow!!

One of the projects we created at card club this month used a stamp set that I would never think about buying, yet every time I see something created with it I admire it. This card is no different.

The scan really doesn't do this card justice, I put dazzling diamonds in the center of several of the flowers. The sentiment on the white oval says "Because Nice Matters"

Now if only the flowers outside would start blooming and the snow melting....

Stampin' Up! a Storm

2009-03-13T02:06:00.004-04:00

I have had some catching up to do when it comes to stamping and creating, as a matter of fact I was 3 months behind in my card club swaps. The ladies in the club are so sweet they didn't even care.

I am an avid blog reader and always get great inspiration from other's blogs. My swap card is a direct result of someones blog, I just wish I remember whose so I could give proper credit.

One of the reasons I love this card is there is very little stamping, just tons of Big Shot fun!!

I promise it won't be too long before my next post, I have tons of other swaps and cards to share.

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T03:20:00.004-05:00

Because of the generosity of my friend and upline dawn, i am not the proud owner of the "Define Your Life" stamp set from Stampin' Up! since this stamp set has been on my wish list for awhile, I mounted it and inked it up as soon as I could- on a side note, I am so glad Stampin' Up! has decided to make all stamps die cut, because I had quite a time cutting out all of those great definitions! OK, now back to the original post, I couldn't wait to ink up that set that I decided to make my husband's Valentine's day card with it.

I realize the scan is a little unclear, the words read:
Together: You and Me; lonely no more. With another; inseparable. In harmony; in sync.

While this card looks very simple and creating it was, it has so many elements that are not part of my typical creating comfort zone- ribbons, and brads plus I used a texture plate. I have a feeling I will be creating similar cards in the future, this stamps set has so many different definitions in it, I can't wait to use them all!!

Finally Posting

2009-02-12T00:55:00.006-05:00

I know I promised I was going to be a better blogger and I started off the year on fire; however, I have not been able to keep up that pace, not sure why. I have however been on a creative roll, I have gotten more scrapping and card making done in the past few weeks than I think I did all last year. Only maybe not that much, but lots has been accomplished. I realize I haven't posted any of the projects I worked on when I went away with Kimmie last month and I will, I just need to get them photographed.

The other day my sister came over to scrap, she worked on a project she has been working on forever and I got to play a little. She and her husband received this beautiful wedding invitation from her husband's cousin. Kimberly wanted frame the wedding invitation and give it to the bride to be at her shower. I took one look at the amazing invite and knew we had to do more than just frame it. Pulled out some Real Rust and Chocolate Chip card stock along with some Stampin' Up! rub ons and started to play. I am so please with the finished project and hope the bride and groom are too. (Even though the awful picture I took doesn't do it justice)

I have to finish my Valentine's Day cards so I can get those in the mail on time. Once those are completed (by bedtime tomorrow) I will take pictures of all the other stuff I have worked on over the past few weeks and get those posted.

Until then.........

Midnight Madness

2009-01-28T02:14:00.008-05:00

Not sure what got in to me today but long about 10:30 I sat down at my craft table (that should read, folding table in between the "dining room" and "living room") and started making stuff. I started with

this cute little bookmark. I saw it on my friend
Stephanie's blog who got it from the super talented Mathilda Making these bookmarks is so easy and quick, it is a great way to turn scraps into a cute little project. Since that project took less than 10 minutes I decided to keep on going. I made a birthday card for my brother, not that the card is going to matter half as much to him as what is in it but that is okay. Since I know he will pay close attention to the inside of the card (of course looking for cold hard cash) I wanted to do something more to the inside of the card that I usually do, so I grabbed my spiral punch to dress it up just a little.... I love the spiral punch and use it every chance I get. Finally I made a card to include in a catalog pack I am sending to a new customer. My favorite thing about this card.... no stamping!! I love to stamp; however, sometimes I enjoy making cards without stamping and this is one of those cards. Of course I used my spiral punch on this card too, because as I said, I love it!!

I had fun creating today, when I sat down at the table I had no idea what I was going to work on or create which is usually very frustrating for me.... not tonight though, I just enjoyed the process and had some fun.

Historical Recap

2009-01-21T00:02:00.002-05:00

Watching the historic Inauguration of Barack Obama today made me think about history and all of the things I have been witnessed in my life time. Not all of the events have been good ones, many tragic; however, all of them have impacted our country and world so dramatically making us better people and a stronger nation.

In no particular order, the historic events that happened during my life time…..

1. The Challenger explosion
2. Terrorist Attack on 9-11
3. The Berlin Wall came down
4. Operation Desert Storm
5. Operation Iraqi Freedom
6. Barack Obama became the 44th President
7. Michael Phelps won 8 Gold Medals in the 2008 Olympics
8. Nelson Mandela was freed from Prison
9. OJ Simpson got away with murder (since this is my list, I am entitled to my own opinions)
10. Attack on the USS Cole
11. Death of Pope John Paul II

I am sure there are some I am forgetting, and I can only hope and pray their will be more to come.

Regardless of party affiliation or political beliefs I hope you have found some renewed faith in the country I am proud to call home, the UNITED States of America.

Week 2 already?

2009-01-11T15:41:00.001-05:00

Wow I have have been a blogging fool lately, I am very proud of myself. So week 2 of the new year is over and continue to take a photo a day (sometimes I take more than 1- how exciting is that) I have not created any of the layouts that go with those pictures yet but I have created the collages that I am going to scrap-that has to count for something!

Day 4 is the crockpot- D and I have been cooking fools lately, loving the crockpot!!

Day 5 shows how ridiculously warm it was for the beginning of January.

I love being an American and the American Flag and all it represents, I can't begin to tell you how many pictures of the American Flag I have, day 6 is the latest addition to my collection.

Since D and I have been cooking more than ever before, our refigerator has tons of "real food" in it. I don't think it has ever been this full, of course I had to take a picture of it for day 7.

The warm weather on day 5 didn't last long, which is why I had to make that over size cup of hot cocoa with extra marshmallows on day 8.

My boyfriend in brown came on day 9 I just had to take a picture of all the goodies he brought me.

Day 10 found me at the movies seeing "Bride Wars" twice in the past 2 weeks I have gone to the movies and brought snakes home with me- most people sneak food into the theater with them, not me I bring it home and take pictures of it!

Feeling Creative

2009-01-10T18:16:00.003-05:00

I have been feeling kind of crafty lately, hope that feeling stays around for awhile, especially since next weekend Kimmie and I are getting together to scrap. Regardless I decided to participate in Kristina Werner's Color Inspiration for the first time. What Kristina does is post a picture weekly, she translates the colors in the photo to Stampin' Up! colors and gives you a few days to create something using those colors. I am not one who likes to be told what to do, nor am I someone who usually participates in challenges; however, in an effort to balance myself a little better, I am trying new things. This is what we were given,

As someone who reads tons of blogs stalks the Splitcoast Gallery, I had a design layout in mind but had no idea what I was actually going to do. I knew I wanted to use some of the new goodies my boyfriend in brown delivered yesterday and that is about all I knew. After playing around for a little while, this is what I came up with.

As usual the scan is not the best, a little crooked but you get the idea. I used the new Rub-ons called Loop-to-Loop for the birthday greeting some DSP from the Holiday Mini- Frosty Day. The layout was a total CASE from The Splitcoast Gallery of course I had to change the colors to comply with the challenge.

This is color inspiration challenge #37 and yet it is the first one I am doing, off to go see what other creations I can come up with based on the other challenges.

1 done 51 more to go.....

2009-01-07T22:16:00.001-05:00

Project 365 contines to be in full swing, I am impressed I have kept up with it thus far, afterall it is Jan 7th, usually I lose interest in things like this by now. Again I am not going to say my pictures are impressive but they do document my everyday life.

This collage is pictures from Jan 1- Jan 3 (Thursday-Saturday) of course I had to include a picture of the scale to remind myself 2009 is all about Balance. The picture of my laptop and the Facebook game "Fashion Wars" is just because I play the game far too much and spend way too much time on the computer when I should be doing other things. The rest of the pictures were taken at the annual holiday party hosted by my former DM; being at the party and surrounded by people friends reminded me how important work/life balance is. However, getting up and going to work the next day reminded me how of my age, I swear I just can't hang like I used to!

Balance.....

2009-01-02T01:34:00.005-05:00

So it has been almost 2 months since I last blogged, not sure it really matters because my blog is not one of those blogs that has millions of followers, afterall I am not the Pioneer Woman! Even though I have not blogged in forever, I am still reading blogs at a great rate most of the blogs I read are scrap related and I forget if it is Ali Edwards or Donna Downey that talks about "having a word" and letting that word become your mantra. Kimmie and I were chatting online the other day and she asked me what my word was, without giving it much thought, I said "balance." I have come to realize how little balance I have in my life. This year I am really going to work on changing that, I am not saying it is my New Year's Resolution because that puts too much pressure on it. Instead I am going to stay it is my focus or 2009. I need to create more balance in my life (work/life balance, more time for friends/family, taking time to do things for me, etc....) one of the ways I am doing that is through Project 365, it is a year commitment to take a picture a day and scrap it. Now the pictures don't have to be anything major and I promise the layouts won't be over the top but it is something that I WILL do. Taking that time every day to snap a quick picture will help me create the balance I am looking for, it will force me to do something I enjoy and take the time for me- not to mention it will help me with my blogging because what better place to track the project than here? I have vowed to keep the entire process simple and today's picture is exactly that simple.... when I think about the word balance I always think of a scale, actually I think of the big scale that is in court rooms to represent the judical system because I don't have one of those in my house and didn't have plans to go to court today (or ever if I can help it) the best I could do was take a picture of my household scale (of course I made sure there were no numbers on it, the last thing I want documented in a photo is my weight) I think when I scrap the photo I may incorporate this blog post.....

Wow, where does the time go?

2008-11-09T07:18:00.003-05:00

Okay, okay, I know it has been almost a month since I last blogged. I didn't think anyone even read this thing, then I started to get the harassing text messages from my sister..... usually I don't have anything to say about not blogging except I have been busy, or nothing exciting is going on; however, that is not the case this time.

Yes, I have been busy and sure there have been some exciting things (both good and bad)- Getaway was awesome this year, already counting down the days until next year, BBoy was in the hospital (he is better now, I think the doctors gave him an attitude adjustment while he was there and not for the better, the boy has been a full blow brat lately but that is okay I love him anyway!!!) Kimberly's beloved dog, Daisey passed away (no wonder BBoy has been a brat he lost his best friend), I went to a weekend crop in Hershey with Kimmie, Dawn and Misty and had tons of fun. As I type this, D and I are in Miami getting ready for our cruise, I can't wait to be on vacation, I know it is going to be a blast. I have to keep my eyes peeled for Monkeys in Honduras for BBoy. D got me a new camera lens and I love it!! Great zoom so I hope to be posting some really great pictures when I get back.

See I have had things to blog about; however, I have a new addiction that is keeping me from posting blog and reading them too (which is insane I can only imagine what my bloglines looks like right now!!!) That addiction is better known as Facebook I swore I wouldn't get sucked into yet another online craze, I had a MySpace page and deleted it about a year ago, I was sure Facebook would be more of the same and I just didn't need to be bothered with it. Then I started getting those "view my profile" emails, it was all over after that. I created a profile and was off and running. It has been awesome connecting with people I haven't talked to since college. Hell someone from my girl scout troop even found me and I haven't been a girl scout for more than 20 years, how cool is that?

I know Facebook is not an acceptable excuse for ignoring my blog but it is the best one I got right now (and it's true!!) so if you are wondering where I am and if I have fallen off the face of the earth, know I am okay, just spending way too much time on Facebook these days, don't worry though, I will be back!!

Playing from the Beach

2008-10-17T23:02:00.002-04:00

1. Follow the Leader, Leader..... (said in my best Caribbean accent, getting ready to be on the cruise ship.
2. Camera is something I always take with me on vacation.
3. To achieve your goals, you must work really hard.
4. I have a love Math, but not a fan of accounting or things related to finance is something I'd like you to know about me.
5. I have a tattoo of a shamrock.
6. "Hope" floats. To quote two of my favorite lines.... "You stink Justin Mattice, you stink." "If you marry Justine would my name be Bernice Mattice?"
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to enjoying day 2 of Getaway, tomorrow my plans include more getaway and Sunday, I want to enjoy more time with the girls, but instead I will have to go home!

Friday Fill-ins

2008-10-10T10:40:00.002-04:00

1. One of the best concerts/plays/movies I ever saw that I really didn't think I'd like was The Police (could it be because we were in the 3rd row?).
2. _________ is a recipe I recently made (or meal I recently ordered) that was delicious! (I don't cook)
3. It's time for getaway (going to the beach with some scrapping ladies in less than a week).
4. A good fountain soda is quite refreshing.
5. If I never hear the word "dang right" again, it'll be too soon.
6. To one side of the curving road was a ________, and on the other was a ________. (no clue)
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to getting out of work on time, tomorrow my plans include work and Sunday, I want to watch football but instead I will be working!

Bon Voyage

2008-10-06T23:13:00.004-04:00

So excited, D and I have been talking about going away for awhile and tonight it became official, we are taking another cruise!! This time we are leaving from Miami, going to Grand Caymen, Isla Roatan, Hondoras, Belize City, Belize and Cozumel, Mexico. I know Cozumel won't be as much fun as it was last time I was there because Kimmie and I did Cozumel right, can you say Carlos and Charlies and Fat Tuesdays? None the less it is going to be fun, I am looking forward to getting away and relaxing before the insane holiday season begins.

Where does the time go?

2008-10-03T22:03:00.002-04:00

I really can't belive it is Friday already. I have been off since Monday, got next to nothing done that I needed to but that is okayh because I didn't have to work for a week and let me tell you I needed the break.

I didn't post my Friday Fillins last week because to be honest I forgot, I will do my best to make sure these are really good. (wow talk about pressure)

1. October means warm days and cool nights, love sleeping with the windows open!!!
2. Frogs scare me!
3. Leaves are falling all around, it's time to go apple picking.
4. My favorite horror movie doesn't exist because I don't like horror movies, they freak me out.
5. College = good memories.
6. It was a dark and stormy night and I ran outside to watch the lightening.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to chilling with D, tomorrow my plans include watching the boy (stay tuned for some great stories) and Sunday, I want to watch football but I can't I am going back to work!

Card Club

2008-09-26T01:48:00.005-04:00

I attended my first card club on Thursday, we had such a great time. Made 2 cards, an adorable box and a banner. We were only supposed to make 1 card but Dawn had to run upstairs to do something with her children leaving the rest of us unattended with the brand new "Stampin' Success" in front of us........... of course the ink on the magazine was barely dry and we wanted to try every project featured in it. We thought the turkey card was too cute not to try it. Of course we had to change what we saw in the magazine just a little and add googlie eyes to it, how stinking cute is he? Funny how the idea came out of "Stampin' Success" magazine yet there isn't one bit of stamping on the entire card! Everything was created with punches and the sentiment is from the holiday rub-ons.

Nothing says Halloween like Frankenstein- this card was super easy to make and again very little stamping. Only the Sentiment and the background are stamped, everything else was created with punches or the big shot- gotta love that!!!

Scrappy Stuff

2008-09-24T21:44:00.005-04:00

Creative juices have been flowing a bit more than usual lately could be because of all of the blogs I read and get inspiration from, or it could be all of the pictures I have been taking lately just waiting to get on paper. Regardless of why, I am excited to be getting pictures out of the envelopes they were shipped in and onto paper and into albums.

Had a great time with my family in the Outer Banks of NC this summer. One of the nice things about being part of a big family is there are always little kids around- I can't think of a better subject to photograph than little kids. I had almost as much fun creating this layout as the girls did at the beach.

Like many scrappers when I started scrapping, stickers were the one and only embellishment I used. I quickly realized there was a whole other world of embellishments out there and abandoned stickers; however, I have tons of them in my stash and need to get rid of them. I saw a layout recently that used an entire sheet of Making Memories WordFetti and thought "I could do that" and I did....... Felt pretty accomplished, I finished yet another layout and I got rid of an entire sheet of stickers, go me!!!

Happy Birthday Kimberly

2008-09-23T21:14:00.008-04:00

As I mentioned in my Friday fill-ins this past weekend was my sister's birthday party. I think she had a great time. Her birthday was actually September 14th but because of her school schedule she couldn't really celebrate so her party was the following weekend. I didn't get to see on her on her actual birthday which means her gift from me was a week late, unfortunately so were all of her other gifts. She was convinced her husband didn't get her anything and was really hurt/pissed about it. I knew differently and had fun playing her game. She asked me often if her husband got her anything and I kept saying I didn't know and various other things. At one point I even said to her "Don't you think if I knew he got you something I would tell you instead of sitting here watching you be upset?" I decided it would be fun to display the gifts I got her Friday night and not her open them until Saturday afternoon. When it was finally time to open gifts I could tell she was nervous.... what if her husband didn't get her anything, or worse what if he got her something she hated? Her husband and I decided to drag it out a little long by making her open my gift first it was hard to tell if she was excited about her camera or not because after opening it her husband handed her a box, she was very confused at to what was in it, speechless has a matter of fact, Her husband got her EXACTLY what she wanted, a sapphire ring with no diamonds that she could wear with her wedding band.

All in all, I think/hope Kimberly had a great birthday, she deserves it!!

What color are you?

2008-09-21T21:58:00.002-04:00

I am .................

AQUA

You enjoy life, humor, and being exuberant. Wherever you go you usually find yourself stealing the spotlight without even trying. You love to let go and have fun.

Find out your color at QuizMeme.com!

Anna had this on her blog, thought I would copy it.

Hooray for Friday

2008-09-19T09:33:00.002-04:00

1. There is no need for drama.

2. Where in the heck did the the time go.

3. Get further behind is all I managed to do.

4. Prospects for gold?

5. __________ is the message. (not sure about this one.... Grease is the word?)

6. Simplicity and tranquility are ideal but not reality.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to hanging out with my sister and the boy getting ready for her birthday party, tomorrow my plans include the party, where I know she is going to be super surprised about the gifts she is getting and Sunday, I want to win my fantasy football game!

Deck the Halls

2008-09-18T01:09:00.006-04:00

Diana Gibbs is hosting a Holiday Mini Swap, 29 demonstrators are participating. The stamp set I selected was "Deck the Halls" when I first saw it I thought it was adorable and welcomed the opportunity to work with it, then it arrived at my house and I had no clue what to do with it. Being the avid blog reader I am I found tons of samples I thought I liked and would be able to CASE, Heather Summers had this adorable card on her blog and thought for sure it would be my inspiration I sat down with my stamp set and various combinations of colored paper and just couldn't get it to look anything like what Heather created. As I was moving things around on the page, Doris said something that got my creative juices flowing (too bad I don't remember what it was- I know it has something to do with a fireplace) with Doris' mystery statement, I was off and running. I remembered reading a blog about how to create a camp fire using punches. Kathy from Texas did a great job sharing the step by step instructions. As a result of Kathy's post I came up with

Funny how I sat down at the table with one design in mind and ended up creating something totally different. I am really happy with the way the card turned out and hope everyone else in the swap will be happy with it too.

Recipe:
Stamp: Deck the Halls
Paper: Chocolate Chip (base) Real Red (fireplace) Very Vanilla (ornaments), More Mustard and Old Olive (ornament hangers)Only Orange (flames) Close to Cocoa (fire logs)
Ink: Real Red, More Mustard, Old Olive, Chocolate Chip (for the logs) and Real Red (to shade the stars)
Punches: Word Window, Large Tag, Large Star, Small Star
Accessories: Twine ribbon from the Holiday Mini, sponge daubers to ink the flames and the fire logs.

I can never have enough chocolate chips in my life

2008-09-17T00:33:00.005-04:00

Especially when it is 1" Chocolate Chip Grosgrain Ribbon!! D's bosses' wife had a baby about a month ago and of course we are just now getting around to sending a gift. No gift is complete without a hand stamped card, so I sat down and played around a little until I came up with something I thought was acceptable.

I have tons of stamps but none that are really baby themed so I decided to go a little generic and just do a congrats card. I never use ribbon on my cards because I don't know how to tie a nice looking bow. At least I didn't know how to until I attended convention.... tie your ribbon around anything that is at least as wide as your card, cut the ribbon off the spool and get your bow exactly the way you want it. Once you are happy with the way it looks (if you are like me you will have to tie and untie a few times)cut the back of the ribbon so the bow comes off whatever object you tied it around. Now you have a perfect bow that you can just adhere to your card, no muss, no fuss. (by no means am I saying the bow on my card is perfect, I just know it is one of the better bows I have tied)

(one of these days I will post a clear crisp scan, just not tonight, I am tired.)

Recipe:
Stamp Sets: Say it with Scallops
Paper: Pink Pirouette,Bella Rose DSP and Kiwi Kiss
Ink: Chocolate Chip
Accessories: 1" Chocolate Chip Grosgrain Ribbon, Scallop Circle Punch, Circle Punch (not sure what size)

I am almost finished with my holiday mini swaps, hope they will be going postal tomorrow which means I should be posting a pic of them soon. D said "I think that is the best thing you have ever done" Not really sure they are all that but I do know I am really happy with the way the came out and hope the other stampers in the swap will be too. Off to get some sleep so I can finish them in the AM.

What did he say now?

2008-09-15T23:19:00.002-04:00

I absolutely love my nephew, not just because he is mine but because he is adorable, funny and a great reminder to me why I don't want to ever want to be a mother.

My sister worked all last weekend and since her husband is on location she had no one to watch the boy, of course I jumped at the opportunity because of all the reasons listed above.

I met my sister at work on Saturday, we typically just switch cars since the boy is usually sleeping. This time was not unlike other times, I got in the car and the boy was asleep. When he woke up he started talking to me about school and everything else going on in his life. There is a little girl at school who I will call "Miss N" since her first name begins with N and I want to protect all parties involved...... apparently Miss N is a little bit of a bully and picks on a lot of the kids in the class. So I asked the boy how school was going and he said "I don't want to talk about 'Miss N' anymore, EVER"

While at my house, we watched several episodes of "Little Bear" I told him as soon as the WVU football game started "Little Bear" was off, he seemed to be okay with that..... until he realized I meant he couldn't watch what he wanted to watch (not that the WVU game was worth watching, they lost to ECU for God Sake) anyway the entire time the game is on he kept pulling out DVD from his bag tell me he wants to watch this one or that one and every time a DVD game out of the bag I heard "Come on Aunt Kelly it is really fun" So I finally responded "So is watching football, no movies now" we then practiced saying "Let's Go Mountaineers" which paid off well when he and his parents when to Champs to watch the Notre Dame game and Rich Rodriguez (coach of Michigan, former coach of WVU) was on TV being the first Michigan coach to lose the first 2 games of the season in forever and the boy started yelling "Let's Go Mountaineers".... of course he had no clue of the humor in that since Rich left WVU for what he thought was a better program and is doing nothing for them!!

Anyway, moving on. At one point I see the boy sitting under my kitchen table so I say to him "BBoy what are you doing?" He comes out from under the table so he can put his hand on his hip and shake his head a little and respond to me "Can't you see I am using my imagination?" Because I wasn't sure how to respond I said to him "No I couldn't thanks for clearing that up for me."

Several times I asked him if he was hungry or wanted anything to eat and he kept telling me no, finally he says to me, again with hands on his hips "Aunt Kelly I need food" so I name all the food we have, trying to find out what he wants and he said to me "Not that food, the food in the closet" I tell him "I don't know what you are tlaking about, I have no food in the closet." I guess that is not the answer he was looking for because he shook his head at me and said "I wish you would stop being so ridiculous" ........ are you kidding me the child is not even 3, seriously where does he come up with this stuff?

Finally we were at my parents on Sunday and my father was serving corn on the cob, I didn't know if the boy was allowed to eat it or not so I said to my father "Does BBoy get any" and before my father could respond BBoy says "only one because of my poopies" I about died, the kid knows about corn poops already, I love it!!!

Do you believe?

2008-09-14T00:05:00.001-04:00

I was at a meeting yesterday, one of the things we talked about was our holiday floor sets and the theme for holiday this year. The theme is going to be "Do you believe?" When I first heard that all I could think of was that song "Do you believe in Magic....." As an icebreaker we had to introduce ourselves and tell the group 3 things we believe in. What I believe in is nothing something I think about often, it is just kind of who I am, but when asked to list them I had a hard time at first, then I realized I believed in a lot of things and had a hard time limiting my list to just 3 things.

I Believe in...................

1. Myself
2. Family
3. True Love
4. God
5. Everything happening for a reason
6. You get out of things what you put into them
7. The Golden Rule, I treat people the way I want to be treated
8. Hard work pays off
9. Teamwork
10. Paying it forward, when someone does something good for me, I want to do something good for someone else
11. A woman's right to choose
12. Destiny
13. You are only as old as you feel
14. The power of positive thinking
15. Santa and the magic of Christmas

So what do you believe in?

Seeing Double....

2008-09-13T23:40:00.002-04:00

Is it me or were these two woman separated at birth?

I can see the SNL skits now..............

A day late and a dollar short

2008-09-13T12:58:00.002-04:00

Oh well better late than never with my Friday Fill-Ins

And...here we go!

1. I enjoy spending time with friends, just wish I got to do it more often.

2. Money is something I wonder about often lately.

3. In your heart, you knew I was making the right decision.

4. Take a lot of stuff to do without a lot of time, add a little sleep and you end up with the story of my life.

5. Life has gifted me with love from friends and family.

6. Hanging out with Kimmie is an instant vacation.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to getting some sleep, tomorrow my plans include working and Sunday, I want to wish my sister a very happy birthday (welcome to yuor 30's)!

Remembering and Reflecting

2008-09-11T23:53:00.004-04:00

On my way home tonight I got to see something similar to this I couldn't help but get a little emotional thinking about how many lives were changed forever 7 years ago today. I keep the families who lost loved ones in my prayers today and everyday.

Sing, Sing a Song

2008-09-05T14:53:00.003-04:00

This week I'm going to use rather obscure song lyrics; you can fill them in with the correct words if you know 'em...but wouldn't it be more fun to do it a bit differently?

And...here we go!

1. If I was to walk into your life, would you open the door or slam it in my face?

2. Catch a bright star and place it in your pocket.

3. And you can send me on a vacation (I so need one!!).

4. I want to move on but I'm dealing with a memory that never forgets.

5. I'm the innocent bystander / Somehow I got stuck taking all the blame.

6. What's keeping us apart isn't selfishness, it's life and all the stuff that gets in the way.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to hanging with my husband, I am off all weekend!!!!, tomorrow my plans include hanging with D, watching the boy and trying to get some scrapping done and Sunday, I want to watch football!

I love new rubber.......

2008-09-04T20:17:00.003-04:00

The past 2 days have been great mail days for me the UPS man came not once, not even twice but 3 times- how exciting! I got tons of goodies from the new Holiday mini I can't wait to start playing with. I am in a swap run by Diana Gibbs that should be awesome. I have heard nothing but great things about her and her swaps, I can't wait to see what everyone creates; at the same time I am a little nervous, I need to make sure I produce a card everyone wants and would be proud to demonstrate, talk about pressure!!

Every month my upline coordinates a swap with the girls in our group, this one the requirements were you had to use the new InColors and "Say it with Scallops" stamp set. Since I am a major blog hopper I have seen tons of great cards made with this set (after all about 6000 demonstrators got it free at convention) one of my favorites was created by Sherri Barron I loved her card so much I made one very similar........(again excuse the scan, one of these days I will get it right)
The base is Baja Breeze, followed by a layer of Whisper White and some new 1" Double Stitched Grosgrain ribbon in my favorite Chocolate Chip. Stamped "Hi" with Chocolate chip onto Pink Pirouette and punched it out with the 1 3/8 square then used a pop up glue dot to adhere that to a Pink Pirouette scallop square punched out with the new scallop square punch (I have no idea how we made cards without that punch, it is awesome!!!) I then added scallop squares in Kiwi Kiss, Tangerine Tango (who thinks of these names?!?) and Chocolate Chip to complete the look. Pretty simple card yet pretty cute if I do say so myself.

Did I mention my Big Shot arrived today?!?! So exciting and well worth the 2 day shipping fees. Since I am off for the next 3 days I plan on doing nothing but scrapping and card making, looking forward to posting tons of new creations this weekend.

MSM-We're Having A Party....

2008-09-01T23:15:00.003-04:00

So I am a total loser, I started "Make Something Monday" last week and I didn't even participate in my own challenge. I know, I know, shame on me. I have an excuse though...... I am waiting on pictures to arrive, as soon as they do I am going to scrap them and post the layout. I even thought about creating the layout without the picture and just insert it when it gets here but I am not very good at scrapping without the picture.

Okay that being said it is time for another "Make Something Monday" challenge, this week "We are having a party" the project can be anything party related: an invitation, a birthday card, or gift wrap. When I think about tributes to parties I always think about the layout I did of my nephew celebrating his first birthday..........

If you decide to partake in the challenge I would love to see what you create, please be sure to comment and leave a link.

Friday Fill-Ins

2008-08-29T11:34:00.003-04:00

This week my friend Michelle provided most of the questions; thank you, Michelle!

And...here we go!

1. When I'm sick I'm good for nothing.

2. When I take a walk, I think about nothing, when I take a walk I want a clear head.
3. Money can't buy happiness but it can buy great handbags.

4. Cotton makes me warm and cozy and leather makes me confident and sexy.

5. The strangest person/character I've had lewd thoughts about was ____. (no clue)

6. My favorite color these days is Kelly Green because it is named after me.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to hanging out with my husband after work, tomorrow my plans include working and Sunday, I want to sleep in but I can't because I have to work!

Pick a Petal, Any Petal

2008-08-26T15:32:00.010-04:00

I am still trying to figure out how I am going to organize all of the swaps I got at convention, almost a month after being home! So far I have gotten as far as grouping them together by stamp set, I guess that is a step in the right direction. One of the classes I attended at convention was about investing in your business and buying stamp sets that are going to "pay you back" one of the key features to such a set is one that is versatile, I can't think of a more versatile set than "Pick A Petal" I loved all of the swaps I received at convention but these have to be my favorite. I love that you can create all of these different things with just one stamp set, how cool is that?

First you can create a dragon fly like Cheryl Parker did.
Mara Bates created a dragon fly too.
Of course you can create flowers and that is just what Jenni Hogan did Nichole Nelson made a flower too Tracy Belvens said "Thank you" with a flower

Pick a Petal is a great stamp set for all holidays, you can wish someone a Happy Mother's Day with this card created by an unknown artist Ann Leek came up with this adorable Thanksgiving card. And if you just want to say Thank you, there is always this card made by Suzanne Lawrence.

Make Something Monday

2008-08-25T22:58:00.003-04:00

My Upline Dawn is amazing, she is always coming up with new things to keep us connected and motivated. Her latest idea is to post a creative challenge on our website weekly. Some how I was appointed to be the one running the challenge so here goes nothing.........

I want you all to “Light me Up” it doesn’t matter what you create: a card, a scrapbook page, an altered album, anything you want, as long as it “Lights me Up.”

They could contain stamps that have beams on light; it can be a birthday cake with candles that light up, what about a scrapbook layout including pictures taken around the camp fire? When all else fails, there is always bling!!

So you've been given the guidelines, you've got your supplies gathered, you're warmed up and ready to go...your assignment is simply this:
1. Be Inspired.
2. Create something you love.
3. Have fun!

There is no deadline to create this; however I will be posting new challenges every Monday!! Of course, I want to see what you come up with so be sure to post a comment with the link to your creation so I can check it out.

Hope this challenge lights your fire!

Friday Fillins

2008-08-22T01:01:00.004-04:00

This week Amy provided the questions; thank you, Amy! And...here we go!

1. Dancing in the living room while looking into D's eyes makes me feel like the luckiest woman on the planet.

2. The last time I watched football I nearly had a heart attack (after all the Giants were in the Super Bowl).

3. When I drive I enjoy having the moon roof open.

4. I saw the almost full moon standing alone in the sky on my way home from work.

5. Give me love, give me loyalty, give me friendship.

6. Next week I am looking forward to enjoying my 1 day off.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to going to D's cousins wedding, tomorrow my plans include driving home from Rhode Island with enough time to be at work by 2pm and Sunday, I want to work on my Fantasy Football team!

To Have or To Have Not......

2008-08-20T12:36:00.004-04:00

I was off yesterday and was lucky enough to spend the day with my friend and upline Dawn and her family. The day started with swimming lessons for 2 of her 3 kids to swimming lessons, then we grabbed lunch and went back to the pool to enjoy the sunshine. Whenever I spend time with people who have kids it amazes me how they do it, Dawn is no exception. Her oldest daughter is in 3rd grade (I think she is 8) her other two children are 5 year old twins. Talk about having your hands full.... Dawn makes it look so easy, it I had to do what she does every day I am sure I would have lost my mind by now and if not my minds, at least one of the kids. I always say days like this are really good birth control, they remind me what the life of a parent is like and why I have decided to NOT have children.

After spending the day at the pool we got to spend some time stamping and hanging out with some other people from our group. It just so happens one of the other ladies (Doris) has to go to a wedding this weekend. (so do D and I) so the first priority for Doris and I was making wedding cards. After looking through what felt like thousands of samples (Dawn has millions!!) we came up with our inspiration. We decided we wanted different colors, changed some other elements and this is what we came up with (as always it isn't the best scan but in person the card looks great if I do say so myself)
Recipe:
Stamps: Always and Wonderful Words
Card Stock: Whisper White and Brushed Silver
Accessories: Silver Embossing Powder, Stampin' Dimensionals, Retired Ribbon and Ribbons slider.
It really felt good to stamp and paper craft with friends. I need to do more of that, based on my work schedule it is hard to go to crops and other things because they are almost always on the weekends so when I get the chance to craft with other people I jump on it. After making the wedding cards we worked on some projects Dawn needed to complete, then we played around with the BigShot (can't wait to order mine, kind of impressed I haven't ordered it yet) and planned some activities for the rest of the year. All I have to say is watch out because it is going to keep getting better and better as the year goes on!!!

Playing with Paper

2008-08-17T21:55:00.004-04:00

I am a huge blog reader. My Bloglines has about 120blogs that I try to read every day.... crazy I know. One of the blogs I read often is Anne from Canada Anne and I met because our SU! up lines are friendly. I have never met Anne because she didn't go to convention (she promises me she will go next year!!) but that hasn't stopped me from reading her blog. The other day she had this card on her blog.

I fell in love with the colors and knew when I got the change to craft I would be doing something similar. My card is a little larger than usual, not sure what the heck I will do with a 6x6 card but that is something for me to figure out later. I couldn't wait to use the new "Say it with Scallops" stamp that we got at convention from UPS and of course I wanted to use the new In Colors.
I was able to kill two birds with one stone. I used Chocolate Chip, Kiwi Kiss and Pink Pirouette paper. I stamped the sentiment with Chocolate Chip. I am thinking of adding buttons to the center of the flowers, but like I said I don't know when I am going to need to give this card to anyone so I have a little while to perfect it.

Am I missing something?

2008-08-16T13:01:00.005-04:00

There is a new stamp set in the Stampin' Up! catalog called "Sock Monkey" everyone loves. I don't, as a matter of fact I am going on record here and now saying it freaks me out a little. It is definitely not a stamp set you will ever see on my wish list. That being said I received tons of really cute swaps made with the sock monkey that I just had to share.....(as with all of the pics I post I apologize for the clarity or lack there of of the pictures, blame it on my scanner)

Created by Barb Coblentz of Marshfield, WI

This one is from Krista Jensen of Corona, CA

Then we Megan Verhoeven of Parker, CO creation which really got attacked by my scanner. In real life the card is straight and even!

This was created by Susan Miller (not sure where Susan is from)

Jill George created this one, again I am not sure where Jill is from.

Finally I received from an unknown stamper.

I think all of these cards are adorable (obviously, I shared them with you) but I just don't see the big deal about the Sock Monkey..... oh well it must be me!

I'm Lovin' It.....

2008-08-16T00:33:00.000-04:00

It isn't every day you get to have your picture taken with a celebrity, especially one who is world famous. I had no idea when I get on the plane for Salt Lake City I would be meeting someone was well known and reconizable as.......
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Ronald McDonald!!!! How lucky am I? I am sure you are wondering what the heck was Ronald McDonald doing at the Stampin' Up! convention? "Stampin' Up! designs an exclusive stamp set every year to help raise money for Ronald McDonald House Charities" (RMHC) Ronald was there to accept the check from Shelli and visit with demonstrators.

As if that wasn't cool enough, the last day of convention looked liked because donated this (sorry for the crappy picture, my hands were shaking with excitement while I was taking it) to every demonstrator who attended to convention. I thought I got excited when the UPS man showed up at my house, you should have seen how we all acted when he showed up at convention, it was unreal. What is even more exciting is there were about 5600 people there and since UPS purchased the stamp sets from SU to give to everyone attending convention that means RMHC received more than $11,000 from Stampin' Up! Now that is something to cheer about!!!

Janet for President

2008-08-15T00:05:00.001-04:00

As usual Janet from Friday Fillins does a great job!

1. The last meal I had at a restaurant was if take out counts, last night when I got Chipolte, if it doesn't that would be Convention when we went to Bucca De Pepi (I know I spelt that wrong).

2. Frogs are something I intensely dislike. (actually I am afraid of them, crazy I know!)

3. The full moon always makes me think of the night I met my husband.

4. "How you Doin?" (think of Joey from Friends) is one of my favorite local expressions.

5. Sometimes it's best to keep your mouth shut!!

6. Sex and the City is the best movie I've seen so far this year!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to watching the Olympics after work, tomorrow my plans include laundry and work and Sunday, I want to hang with my husband after work!

Music to my Ears.....

2008-08-14T21:54:00.004-04:00

My sister "Bboy" and I have a bit of a tradition. Almost every night he calls me to say goodnight. Honestly I think it is the little stinkers way of getting to stay awake for 5 more minutes, I don't care thought I love when he calls! It started with my sister doing all the talking and at the end she would say "Give Aunt Kelly a kiss" and I would hear "Muwah" (not sure how to spell the sound a kiss makes) and I would say "muwah right back at you peanut" and blow a kiss into the phone. Now that he can talk more our bedtime conversations are a little different, I usually say "BBoy what are you doing?" and he tells me "reading a book" or "singing a song" or any number of other things he says (not all of which are 100% clear to me) and of course before we get off the phone I always say "Good night peanut, I love you." The other day he said "I love you too Aunt Kelly" I swear I got tears in my eyes and goose bumps up and down my arms. It was so cute hearing his little voice say "I love you" as I sit here typing this I am looking at a blurry screen because the tears have surfaced again. It is hard for me to believe the big boy in this picture wearing "Grandpa's" glasses is the same little boy who entered the world and my heart almost 3 years ago. Damn I love that little brat!!!

DNA vs. Delete

2008-08-13T20:20:00.004-04:00

I was listening to the radio the other day and they were talking about what to your cell phone when you break up with someone. Of course the response was just delete their name/phone number from your phone and let it rest in peace. Which is something I have done a time or two. On of the girls on the show suggested not deleting the number instead edit the name to read "DNA-name" that way if they should call you know not to answer it. Let's face it in this day and age we don't memorize numbers the way we used to adn we whouldn't want to accidently answer a call from one of those "DNA" people would we? More importantly we wouldn't want to drunk dial any of those "DNA" people. I had a couple of names in my phone that I really didn't want to have to talk to and I pray all the time they don't call so you better believe after listening to that show I went through and added "IGNORE" do their name, I chose "IGNORE" because I felt that strongly about ignoring these people (honestly it is only 1 person), they are just not worthy of my time! Anyone in your phone worthy of "DNA" or "IGNORE"

Simply Sent

2008-08-11T21:49:00.004-04:00

I am so in love with the new Simply Sent Card Elements Kits. Using the kit I was able to make this adorable card (At least in person it is adorable, I don't think the scan did it justice, oh well) I did alter it a little. I was supposed to use a button in the middle of the flower but in true Kelly fashion, I lost the button so I used a pearl from the "pretties kit." The cool thing about the kit is you get everything you need to make 9 cards, including step by step instructions which is exactly what I need.

The card is for my DM, after a little more than 2 years working together we have been realigned and are no longer working together. She is coming to my store tomorrow to "hand over" the store, I know it is going to be an emotional day,thankfully I am not working the business so I won't scare any customers away with my "I have been crying face"

Swapping was fun.......

2008-08-09T00:42:00.006-04:00

All of this talk and pressure around swapping at convention had me on pins and needles, I wondered was my swap good enough? would people want to swap with me? how would people know I had swaps? and tons of other things ran through my head as I entered the Salt Palace for the first time with my Ziploc bag full of swaps. It didn't take me very long to figure out how the whole swapping thing worked. Basically everyone in the building was swapping, it made waiting in line for Memento Mall seem not so bad. People were basically walking up and down the line swapping. I very quickly learned the easiest way to do it without dropping everything on the floor was to give with one hand and take with the other (remember high school graduation, you shook with the right and received your diploma with your left, same concept) I started putting all the swaps I received in the back of my very cool new bag from SU and the one I was giving stayed in the front of the back so not to mix them up. I would be lying if I said I went through all of the ones I received. Making 150+ cards was over whelming; however they were all the same design so it wasn't that bad; however, I received 150+ cards all of which are different designs, it is amazing to me the time and effort that went into alot of them. I really need to figure out a way of sorting through all of them and filing them for future use/inspiration. In addition to giving me some really great gifts (including an adorable picture of her dog "Snowball"- that is for you Judy if you are reading this) my roommate gave me several cards and card designs to use in the future. The two cards posted are from her. I am going to my cousins' birthday party tomorrow and these cards are perfect for them, they are turning 6 and 4. I am sure they are going to love them and hope you do too. I hope to post pics of the swaps I received as I sort through them, not committing to any specific time frame though, sorting through them could take awhile.

Friday Fillins Times 2!!

2008-08-08T00:05:00.001-04:00

No wonder I can't figure out what day of the week it is, I didn't do my Friday Fillins last week. So this week I will be doing this weeks and lasts to make up for it.

1. You know you're old when you need to use the calculator to figure out how old you are (serious business I do that all the time 2008-1975 okay so I just turned 33).

2. My heart is divided between my friends and my family.

3. Money and sleep is what I need RIGHT NOW!

4. I have felt the pain, I have known the depths of love (or is it the other way around- felt the love and known the depths of pain?)

5. Gah, won't these people leave me alone.

6. Fall in love as soon as you can!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to catching the highlights from the opening ceremonies of the Olympics (since I will be working when they air the first time)tomorrow my plans include working and going to my cousin's birthday party and Sunday, I want to enjoy my day off!

And now for last week's (not filling out the weekend stuff since it will be the same as the one above)

1. If I could travel back in time, I'd go to Joannie's house before she died even though my mother told me not to!!!
2. Give me chocolate or give me space.
3. I am listening to Run DMC "It's Tricky" (thanks Kimmie).
4. Somewhere, someone is thinking what the hell am I doing?
5. I'll always be myself.
6. My idea of a good time includes friends and comfy clothes.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to _____, tomorrow my plans include _____ and Sunday, I want to _____!

It keeps getting better and better

2008-08-07T22:21:00.005-04:00

Stampin' Up! has done it again. They are running an amzing recruiting special lstarting on Monday, I am so excited about it, I couldn't wait until then to share the news. For $99 you can sign up to be a demonstrator and get amazing discounts on every order you place. One of the things that makes this promotion so special is there are 3 different starter kits to pick from and as usual all of the kits are 100% customizable... how cool is that?

When I placed my first Stampin' Up order I never thought I would become a demonstrator but because I had an amazing demonstrator who was so motivated and passionate about what she does I became to think more and more about it. I was going to place the order anyway, why not get a discount? I have never hosted a workshop, or taught a class yet I get a great discount with EVERY order I place. I LOVE IT!! After attending convention I realized there was a lot more I could be doing with "my business" and I promised myself I would work a little harder at it than I had been. I still don't plan on hosting workshops or teaching classes and that is okay because I don't have to!

One of the things that is so inspiring about convention is watching demonstrators walk across stage for their accomplishments in various different categories. Like me, many of my "sideline sisters" signed up as hobby demonstrators after being at convention and seeing people get rewards and walk across the stage we are committed as a team to walk across the stage next year. I am so excited to be feeding off their energy and motivation I just know this is going to be an amazing year!!!

Another exciting convention announcement......

2008-08-06T11:01:00.004-04:00

Stampin' Up! has announced a partnership with Sizzix!!! Please join me in welcoming the newest member of the SU family.........The Big Shot. How exciting!! There are so many amazing things you can create with it, I can't wait to get my hands on it.

When Shelli announced the partnership all 5500+ woman in the convention center went crazy, it was unreal. I am sure you are wondering what is the Big Shot and when/where can you get one? I have the answers to those questions and more....... The Big Shot is a sturdy manual die cutting machine used to die cut materials for use on crafts, home décor projects, and even clothing--it's a big deal! Starting September 2nd you will be able to order the Big Shot along with Exclusive Stampin' Up! Dies how cool is that? I am so excited I can barely control myself!

Convention was amazing............

2008-08-05T11:45:00.005-04:00

If I talked about all of the great new products and announcements made at Convention I would be typing for days! It was awesome. The new catalog is amazing, be sure to contact me today for your free copy!!!

Stampin' Up! has sweetened the deal a little more by putting some of the new stamps sets on promotion.....

Never Before Seen Promotion

From August 11 through September 30, Stampin' Up! is providing never-before-seen savings on brand-new stamp sets: 15% off select new, die-cut stamp sets from the Fall-Winter 2008 Idea Book & Catalog--no additional purchase necessary. Select items are listed in the table below:

Item Code Pg. # Description Regular Price 15% off Price
111690 32 Snow Swirled $24.95 $21.21
111586 55 It's a Stretch $23.95 $20.36
111544 81 Putt Putt $24.95 $21.21
111626 91 Eastern Blooms $21.95 $18.66
111672 98 Pocket Silhouettes $18.95 $16.11
111710 101 Upsy Daisy $18.95 $16.11
111556 109 Under the Stars $29.95 $25.46
111644 145 Heard from the Heart $22.95 $19.51
111570 157 Contempo Alphabet $40.95 $34.81
109381 23 Felicidades Siempre* $17.95 $15.26

*From Celebrando Creatividad

Pictures of these stamp sets and more are int he new idea book and catalog, be sure to contact me to request your copy!

Step by Step

2008-07-29T01:05:00.005-04:00

Ever since I started working in retail I often wondered how much I walk in a day the other day while in the store buying trouser socks (as if I don't have a thousand pair at home already) I saw what looked like a decent pedometer for a decent price so being the impulse shopper that I am, I picked it up. "They" say you should strive for 10,000 footsteps a day and I am proud to say I did it today!!! To be honest I wasn't really paying attention during the day then when I went to take my work clothes off and put on my PJs the damn thing fell off my belt, and wouldn't you know I did 10543, that breaks down to over 4.5 miles, kind of impressive considering most of it was done in heels. Gotta love Easy Spirit!

Tomorrow I leave for convention, (my birthday present to myself) I am really looking forward to it, it will be nice to finally meet my roommate, we have been communicating via email for months now. Stampin'UP! has already made some pretty amazing announcements, I can't wait to hear what they are going to announce at convention especially since this is the 20th Anniversary year. Looking forward to getting my hands on the new catalog (if you want one just email me with your address and I will be happy to send you one.) Basically what I am trying to say is I have heard so much abaout convention, I can't wait to experience it for myself.

And the Legacy continues......

2008-07-28T22:01:00.002-04:00

Look what I found on MSN

Top 10 Biggest Party Schools
Article provided by The Princeton Review

Some colleges are famed for their academics, some for their location and some, well, are legends for their party scene. The Princeton Review's survey of 120,000 college students for "The Best 368 Colleges: 2009 Edition" revealed the top 10 party schools in the nation. Read excerpts from the students' responses to the survey below.

4. West Virginia University (Morgantown, W. Va.)
When it comes to socializing, West Virginia students are keen to mention "exceptional partying," "some of the best NCAA football" and "amazing" tailgates as some of the school's many opportunities for fun. Of course, while there are plenty of high-octane parties, there's also an alcohol-free program each weekend called WV Up All Night. Here students can enjoy "movies and comedy shows and games and free food at the student center." Hometown Morgantown also earns high marks. Students praise its "refreshing, slower pace of life" as well as "the 15 bars downtown that are no more than 80 feet from each other."

Students who considered West Virginia University also looked at Penn State -- University Park, University of Pittsburgh -- Pittsburgh Campus, James Madison University, Marshall University and Virginia Tech.

Nice to know my home away from home for 4 years isn't letting me down!!!

And time keeps on ticking....

2008-07-27T01:13:00.004-04:00

I leave for Utah 7:00pm on Tuesday and in true Kelly fashion, my swaps for convention are not done yet!

I did however make major progress today. My POTD today is 165 swaps that are about 90% done. All I need to do is punch the holes in the center of the flower and attach the flower to the card. I am feeling pretty good. My goal was to have them done before I went to bed on Monday and I am beginning to think that is a possibility! I am pretty impressed, I thought for sure I would end up drastically reducing the number of cards I made but so far I have only lowered it by less than 30. You never know I might end up making those 30 after all, I guess we shall see what tomorrow brings.

And it didn't even fill it up.......

2008-07-26T00:29:00.003-04:00

Since I did such a great job ranting and raving about my dumb car the other day I thought I would continue the theme today with my POTD

My sister called me today and says "Oh my God, I am so excited" so of course I asked her why and she said "I am sitting at the Shell station paying $3.75 a gallon."

How pathetic is that? We no celebrate when we get gas that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. What on earth is this world coming do?

TFIG

2008-07-25T12:46:00.002-04:00

If it wasn't for our POTD and Friday Fillins I would have nothing to post.

Questions 4-6 this week are courtesy of Sherry! I like it when people give me questions on a wicked busy day :-) Thanks!

Here we go:

1. I believe whatever doesn't kill you gives you great material for a funny story.

2. If you're good at something, make the most of it.

3. Why so little time and so much to do?

4. Something is out there, it's just waiting to be discovered.

5. If my life were a sitcom, it would be titled WTF?
(this is a great question, really need to think about it).

6. Sitting on my back porch [if you don't have one, use your imagination] I see my neighbors garden.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to working on my convention swaps (talk about waiting until the last minute, tomorrow my plans include work and more swaps and Sunday, I want to get my swaps done and pack for convention, I leave Tuesday

A day late and a picture short

2008-07-24T21:00:00.006-04:00

Kimmie and I are doing a Picture of the Day; however, as the title indicates I am a day late and a picture short. We started it yesterday and I am just now posting my pic from yesterday.

It is always nice to come home from vacation, you get to sleep in your own bed, get back on a routine, etc. More importantly, I got to see my husband- we are used to being apart for several days at once since D travels all the time for work, usually I am the one at home waiting for him to return. When he first started traveling, I would try to have suprises for him when he got home, nothing big but suprises none the less. When I got home I found quite a suprise....... This was hanging in my bedroom. Apparently D's father got it for us as a wedding gift (yes we have been married for over a year- that is a story for a different post) I really didn't understand all the hype about flat screens or high def tv that is until I got one. The picture clarity is amazing- I can't wait for football season to start it is going to be amazing watching it in High Def!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Picture of the Day for Thursday
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I am really not a car person, as a matter of fact I would drive almost anything to work as long as it had 4 tires and a steering wheel. I take decent care of my car, doing all the necessary maintenance, changing the oil, rotating the tires, and all the other junk that I have no idea about but know it needs to be done. The keyless entry on my car had been acting up, so D and I replaced the battery (a simple fix under $5) the new battery did nothing for the remote so after 3 days of quickly unlocking the door and hopping in to start it to turn the alarm off I finally went to the car dealer to see what they could do for me. I will tell you what they did...... they raped me, no foreplay, no ky, no nothing, just straight up screwing!!! Not only did I have to pay $85for the new remote, I had to pay $41 for them to program it, did I have a choice, what good is a nonprogrammed remote? What are my other options, not locking my car? I don't think so, not where I work. Oh well, at least it made of a good story and a half way decent picture!!

Going, Going Gone

2008-07-21T22:17:00.004-04:00

The retired accessory list has finally been posted, items marked with a * are 25% off. Contact me today to get your favorite accessories before they are no longer available.

Item Number Page # Product Description Availability
109200 177 Accents & Elements Build A Flower
110718 177 Accents & Elements Lucky Star
110719 177 Accents & Elements Messenger
103158 184 Acrylic Graph & Grid
108638 163 Card Stock 12 X 12 In Color
108642 163 Card Stock 8-1/2 X 11 Blue Bayou
108643 163 Card Stock 8-1/2 X 11 Groovy Guava
108637 163 Card Stock 8-1/2 X 11 In Color
108640 163 Card Stock 8-1/2 X 11 River Rock
108639 163 Card Stock 8-1/2 X 11 Soft Sky
108641 163 Card Stock 8-1/2 X 11 Wild Wasabi
108644 163 Card Stock 8-1/2 X 11 Purely Pomegranate
103975 166 Card Stock Brushed Copper
108694 163 Card Stock Textured 12 X 12 In Color
107312 167 Cards & Envelopes Gift Whisper White
107292 167 Cards & Envelopes Greeting Whisper White
109116 167 Notes & Envelopes Long Notes
109118 167 Notes & Envelopes Love Notes
109117 167 Notes & Envelopes Pocket Notes*
110729 167 Notes & Envelopes Scallop Notes
109119 167 Notes & Envelopes Gift Notes
109018 163 Classic Stampin' Ink Blue Bayou
109019 163 Classic Stampin' Ink Groovy Guava
109017 163 Classic Stampin' Ink Purely Pomegranate
109016 163 Classic Stampin' Ink River Rock
109015 163 Classic Stampin' Ink Soft Sky
109020 163 Classic Stampin' Ink Wild Wasabi Not Available
109013 163 Classic Stampin' Pad Blue Bayou
109012 163 Classic Stampin' Pad Groovy Guava
109011 163 Classic Stampin' Pad Purely Pomegranate
109010 163 Classic Stampin' Pad River Rock
109009 163 Classic Stampin' Pad Soft Sky
109014 163 Classic Stampin' Pad Wild Wasabi
110751 171 Designer Series Paper Azure*
110696 169 Designer Series Paper Bali Breeze
110749 169 Designer Series Paper Berry Bliss
109154 169 Designer Series Paper Cutie Pie
110699 168 Designer Series Paper East Coast Prep*
109160 170 Designer Series Paper Fall Flowers
109159 169 Designer Series Paper Flowers For You*
110697 169 Designer Series Paper Ginger Blossom
110479 168 Designer Series Paper Jersey Shore*
109151 170 Designer Series Paper Le Jardin
110748 170 Designer Series Paper Notebook*
110750 171 Designer Series Paper Olive Press
109153 170 Designer Series Paper Porcelain Prints*
109175 171 Designer Series Paper Prints Almost Amethyst*
109177 171 Designer Series Paper Prints Always Artichoke
109173 171 Designer Series Paper Prints Blue Bayou
109174 171 Designer Series Paper Prints Brilliant Blue
109178 171 Designer Series Paper Prints Certainly Celery
109169 171 Designer Series Paper Prints Close to Cocoa*
109168 171 Designer Series Paper Prints Groovy Guava*
109171 171 Designer Series Paper Prints Lovely Lilac
109172 171 Designer Series Paper Prints More Mustard
109176 171 Designer Series Paper Prints Old Olive
109170 171 Designer Series Paper Prints Pumpkin Pie
109164 171 Designer Series Paper Prints River Rock*
109167 171 Designer Series Paper Prints Rose Red
109166 171 Designer Series Paper Prints So Saffron
109165 171 Designer Series Paper Prints Soft Sky
109163 171 Designer Series Paper Prints Tempting Turquoise
110698 168 Designer Series Paper Spring Break
110273 169 Designer Series Paper Spring Fling*
110271 170 Designer Series Paper Spring Silhouettes
110272 170 Designer Series Paper Western Sky
107299 167 Envelope Confetti Cream Medium
105320 189 Eyelets Basic
100375 189 Eyelets Bold Brights
100381 189 Eyelets Earth Elements
107233 189 Eyelets Fresh Favorites I
107234 189 Eyelets Fresh Favorites II
105316 189 Eyelets Rich Regals
100378 189 Eyelets Soft Subtles
105515 188 Hodgepodge Hardware Pewter Not Available
105531 188 Hodgepodge Hardware Antique Brass
105532 188 Hodgepodge Hardware Aged Copper
101120 183 Metallic Art Pencils
107307 179 On Board Accents
109181 178 On Board Blossoms & Basic
109179 178 On Board Ginormous Pieces
107306 179 On Board Simon Lower
102678 166 Mulberry Paper White
109227 181 Punch Box Three For You
102686 180 Punch Handheld Rectangle
100271 183 Pure Color Pencils
109060 191 Ribbon Double-Stitched Blue Bayou Not Available
109063 191 Ribbon Double-Stitched Groovy Guava
109061 191 Ribbon Double-Stitched Purely Pomegranate Not Available
109062 191 Ribbon Double-Stitched River Rock*
109059 191 Ribbon Double-Stitched Soft Sky
109058 191 Ribbon Double-Stitched Wild Wasabi
109189 190 Ribbon Originals Beachfront*
109187 190 Ribbon Originals District*
109188 190 Ribbon Originals Fairy Tale
109185 190 Ribbon Originals Jersey*
109184 190 Ribbon Originals Sherbert
109186 190 Ribbon Originals Theater
110716 191 Ribbon Striped Grosgrain Wild Wasabi*
110281 182 Rub-Ons Cherished Memories*
110284 182 Rub-Ons Eastern Elegance*
110285 182 Rub-Ons Urban West*
110557 174 Simply Scrappin' Boho Blend
109610 174 Simply Scrappin' Confetti
110572 172 Simply Scrappin' Crew Kids Boy
110567 173 Simply Scrappin' Crew Kids Girl
109597 175 Simply Scrappin' Home Again
110562 174 Simply Scrappin' Rose Cottage
109648 173 Simply Scrappin' Special Delivery Boy
109627 173 Simply Scrappin' Special Delivery Girl
110587 175 Simply Scrappin' Summer Days
110577 175 Simply Scrappin' Tie The Knot
111184 15 Simply Sent Friendly Notes
109228 16 Simply Sent Simple Delights Not Available
109229 16 Simply Sent Three Thoughts Not Available
106662 197 Stampin'Around Wheel Daisy Field
107561 197 Stampin'Around Wheel Garden Annuals
109681 197 Stampin'Around Wheel Good Dog
109678 197 Stampin'Around Wheel Kisses
107482 197 Stampin'Around Wheel Lily Pad
109680 197 Stampin'Around Wheel Meow
109677 197 Stampin'Around Wheel Mistletoe
106610 196 Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Basics Outline
107467 196 Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Birthday
109571 196 Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Dilly Dally Baby
109570 196 Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Dilly Dally Friends
109569 196 Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Dilly Dally Party
108423 196 Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Leaves A La Carte
107468 196 Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Nature Hike
108980 196 Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Petals
107464 196 Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Rough Texture
111261 196 Jumbo Stampin' Around Wheel Spunky Spots
109554 193 Stampin' Color Index Labels
106694 194 Stampin' Kids Markers
101399 185 Stipple Brushes
102673 183 Zig Painty
*Items are 25% off and part of our discounted retiring accessories promotion.

Click your heals together 3 times.....

2008-07-20T12:26:00.006-04:00

Sometimes I wish I was like Dorothy and could just click my heals 3 times and get home. I am sitting in Norfolk airport, my flight is delayed and so are the other 5 going to EWR. I love the lack of communication, the boards here say ATC delay, the continental website says on time. Not sure how that works but whatever, at least I am not sitting on the plane waiting like we did on our way here.Had a great week, I always enjoy spending time with my grandparents, it reminds me how lucky I am to still have them. Took tons of pictures, the problem with that is I am in none of them (as usual) hoping someone else in my family took at least one of me so I can prove I was there. Then again the red blotchy stuff on my thighs and arms from sun exposure shows I was there. I think I am some type of mutant who is allergic to sun screen. I swear I bathed in SPF45 and still got fried. I used to say my ideal job would be testing sunscreen on the beach somewhere tropical with a cocktail in each hand. Not sure I have the skin for that anymore. (not sure I ever really did, I think I was living a pipe dream)

One of the highlights of the week was the bon ires we built on the beach, with a backdrop like this how could they not be perfect? The picture would be better but this one was taken after a bottle of wine (yes you read that correctly, I drank a bottle of wine) kind of funny considering I never drink around my family. I just couldn't help myself, the full moon, the waves crashing, the awesome bonfire I built, it just seemed like the right thing to do.

All in all it was a great vacation, now all I need to do is get home!!

There are no hands on the vacation clock

2008-07-19T00:12:00.002-04:00

as a result, I almost forgot to do my Friday Fillins

All questions this week are courtesy of Sherry; thank you, girl!

1. If I could be a fly on the wall I would hang out in the men's locker room to see if all the rumors about the locker room talk is true.
2. Jealousy is a waste of energy.
3. When I see a shooting star my wish would be that my marriage continues to grow and strengthen.
4. I'd rather be poor than alone any day!
5. Certain songs when I hear them make me wanna sing out loud, others make me want to dance.
6. If time were in a bottle I would always have enough of it.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to enjoying my last day of vacation, tomorrow my plans include driving to the hotel and getting one more day in at the pool and Sunday, I want to spend the day with my husband, I really missed him this week!

It isn't official until I post these

2008-07-11T06:43:00.003-04:00

Of course I am talking about Friday Fillins!!

All questions this week are courtesy of the original founder of the Friday Fill-Ins, Megan; thank you, bubba!

1. Oh, I can't wait until I have a second to get caught up.

2. A gallon of milk is the first thing I see when I open my refrigerator.

3. I never leave home without my phone.

4. If I were a condiment, I would be dead because I never met a condiment I liked- seriously I don't use any condiments.

5. Please who don't pick up their feet when they walk and bad grammar are really high up on my list of pet peeves.

6. The last thing I thought of before I went to bed was what time is it? and I have to get up in how many hours?

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to leaving on a jet plane (vacay starts today at 5:30 when I leave work, tomorrow my plans include sitting poolside (same thing I will be doing Monday-Friday) and Sunday, I want to enjoy the sunshine, after sleeping in of course!

Edited on Saturday- Friday when leaving for work, I got to the car and realized I didn't have my cell phone. Had to run back up stairs to get it because I couldn't bare the thought of not having it with me.

We did It!!

2008-07-07T23:58:00.004-04:00

Never in my life did I think I would be blogging about potty training; however, I am and for some strange reason I am proud to be doing it. The boy has been very stubborn when it comes to potty training, he has wanted nothing to do with it- nothing at all! My sister has tried everything and he just isn't interested. The frustrating thing he is knows when he goes so he will tell you "pee pee in here, change me" or worse he will take his #2 filled diaper off and tell you "poop in here" many times he takes it off before he has even finished going (I know that is way too much information, sorry)

Tonight Kimberly asked him if he wanted to go to the bathroom and of course he said "no" she put the toilet seat insert on the toilet just in case, he got on, squatted on the seat so he could see what was going on in the bowl and a few drops came out. My sister made such a big deal about it, he got all excited too. He told Elmo (who is on his potty seat) "Good job, I am proud of you, you did it!! (not bad for a kid who is 2 and a half) Of course my sister had to call me at work to tell me the good news, she called back later on to tell me he went 2 more times. Seems like our last diaper change is in our not so distant future (thank God changing diapers is my least favorite part of being an Aunt!!)

Happy Birthday Everyone......

2008-07-04T17:25:00.004-04:00

I think Lee Greenwood said it best:

If tomorrow all the things were gone,
I’d worked for all my life.
And I had to start again,
with just my children and my wife.

I’d thank my lucky stars,
to be livin here today.
‘ Cause the flag still stands for freedom,
and they can’t take that away.

And I’m proud to be an American,
where at least I know I’m free.
And I wont forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me.

And I gladly stand up,
next to you and defend her still today.
‘ Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land,
God bless the USA.

From the lakes of Minnesota,
to the hills of Tennessee.
Across the plains of Texas,
From sea to shining sea.

From Detroit down to Houston,
and New York to L.A.
Well there's pride in every American heart,
and its time we stand and say.

That I’m proud to be an American,
where at least I know I’m free.
And I wont forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me.

And I gladly stand up,
next to you and defend her still today.
‘ Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land,
God bless the USA.

And I’m proud to be and American,
where at least I know I’m free.
And I wont forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me.

And I gladly stand up,
next to you and defend her still today.
‘ Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land,
God bless the USA.

On days like today, I think about the trip D and I were lucky enough to take to Normandy beach, being at that cemetery and was one of the most moving experiences of my life. I wrote about it on Veteran's day and think about it often. Be sure to take time out today to thank God for your freedoms and continue to pray for those people who are fighting to project our freedoms.

Remember this is the land of the free because of the brave!!

Don't Hate the Player, Hate the Game

2008-07-04T00:26:00.003-04:00

Not really sure where that title came from, just needed a way to introduce another round of
Friday Fill-ins

1. Holidays in the summer are a great excuse to leave work early.

2. Potatoes and Corn on the Cob are my favorite things to grill. You haven't lived until you have had my father's potatoes on the grill, they are amazing!!!

3. My thoughts are all over the place lately.

4. ______ is what I'm most looking forward to this weekend! I am working all weekend, not really looking forward to anything special.

5. My favorite book so far this summer is yet to be read, I hope to get some reading done when I am in OBX (about a week from now).

6. Diet Pepsi and an ice cream sandwich is the best way to begin a day. Talk about the breakfast of champions.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to seeing fireworks somewhere, tomorrow my plans include working and Sunday, I want to sleep in before going to work for the floor set!

Bronx Zoo

2008-07-02T10:05:00.008-04:00

My sister and I took "the boy" to the Bronx Zoo yesterday. I took about 200 pictures and wanted to post so of my favorites here. I have learned a lot from my fellow bloggers since I started blogging.

One of my key take aways (wow that is such a work phrase, sorry) is from Anna she is always taking pictures of strangers doing stupid things or looking like fools an posting them on her blog. She has been such an influence I took this picture while in London. This is a wide spread addiction that is quickly spread, Kimmie and Luz have started doing it too. Our adventures in the Bronx Zoo were no different....... While waiting for my sister to bring lunch to the table, I saw this I couldn't believe it, it is one thing to ensure the table you are eating at is clean, but this lady took it to a whole other level..... rubber gloves? She used about 6-10 wipes cleaning that table and when her husband got to the table with the food she told him where he could sit, because of course she cleaned the benches too!!!

They have a cute little merry-go-round there, instead of horses, you sit on various different bugs. The ride couldn't end soon enough for me, since this was my view Are you serious?

What would a day out with the family be without a submission to Glamour'sFashion Don'ts

On my way home I saw the picture isn't the best because I took it while driving. What I thought was so crazy about this is the damn weed whacker is ELECTRIC if you look closely you can see the extension cord, it is plugged in by the front door. Correct me if I am wrong, but there have been serious advances in lawn maintenance equipment, why is she still using one that needs to be plugged in?

Is it Friday Already?

2008-06-27T00:41:00.002-04:00

Its officially Friday so you know what that means......Friday Fill-in Time

Questions courtesy of Jennifer this week; thanks, Jennifer!
1. Birthdays are a great reason to celebrate.
2. Fall is my favorite season because it isn't too cold and not too hot, not to mention I love the way the leaves look when they change.
3. I feel my best when I have had tons of sleep and am with people I love.
4. ______ is my favorite food! (I can't pick just one, I have tons of favorites)
5. First impressions can make or break you.
6. The best piece of advice I ever received was ___________. (wow this really makes me think, I think I could do a whole blog post about this one)
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to going to yoga before work, tomorrow my plans include working and Sunday, I want to sleep in but I can't since I am taking D to the airport !

It's a small world after all

2008-06-26T19:21:00.006-04:00

Okay now that I have that God awful song in your head I can go on with my post. When I signed up to be a Stampin' Up! demonstrator I had no idea it was going to be what it is today. To be honest I did it because I knew I would be ordering a lot of stuff and could use the discount, plus my "stamp lady" was so cool I would do anything to help her. So I signed up because I knew
Dawn would get credit for the recruit and she deserves it, she works so hard! Never did I think I would be signing up to go to convention or spending my days off stamping and scrapping. However, I have been and I love it. I have met so many cool people because of Dawn and Stampin' Up! it is amazing.

Yesterday morning I get a phone call from Dawn asking me what I am doing because friends of hers are coming out with a paper line and she is going to their house tonight to help them assemble kits. Of course I tell her I would go, like I said I would do anything for Dawn. So with yahoo maps directions in hands we head off to help these ladies out. From reading the directions I had a general idea of where we were going; however, I didn't realize it would be right around the corner from my family church.

I am so glad I went, these ladies are great, we hit it off immediately!!! They are introducing a new paper line at CHA in July, and let me tell you it is awesome!! The line is Mollie and Mac after 2 of their children. How cool is that?!? We kind of invaded Mac's dinning room- cutting, punch and stamping paper getting them ready for a "swatch" book they will be giving out at CHA.

Mollie and Mac (not their real names) were kind enough to give us their soon to be released paper. Of course I couldn't want to get home and start scrapping with it. Since I hadn't finished all the sketches from my sketch class I thought I would kill two birds with one stone and use their paper for one of the sketches. This is what I came up with.....

I really wish I had a 12x12 scanner because my picture does the paper absolutely no justice. Since it is a 2 page layout (my favorite) I thought I would also post pictures of each page, so here is page 1 and page 2
I can't even begin to tell you how much fun I had with these ladies. All together there were 6 of us. At one point Mac went in the kitchen to get everyone drinks , when she came out she was carrying a cup with the flying WV on it so I got that cheesy alumni smile on my face and said "Oh My God, I went to WVU" and she said "I did too!" How cool is that, not only do we have scrapping in common but we are both Mountaineers!!! So Mac and I have a connection, but that doesn't mean Mollie (again not here real name) and I don't. In reading an email she sent this morning, I feel like her name is really familiar so I take a stab at it and ask if she is related to a girl I went to high school with, specifically her husband. Wouldn't you know it, she is. As a matter of fact, she is related to my high school friend and her husband is related to the high school friends husband. It is Mollie's mother that introduced my friend to her husband. Go figure! What a small world.

IDK what I did B4 Txt Msg

2008-06-23T21:54:00.003-04:00

Up until about 2 hours ago, I had been unable to send or receive text messages for over a day! I know that doesn't seem like I big deal but I felt like I was living in the dark ages. I didn't realize how dependant I had become on texting until I couldn't do it any more.

I send tons of texts during the day; however, I am not one of those people that sends messages where you would need a decoder ring to figure out what I am saying. I spell out all the words and use correct punctuation. Sometimes I just want to say hi and let someone know I am thinking about them, other times I have useless information I need to share with someone (Lord knows I have tons of that) and other times I am sharing random news or other stuff.

Regardless of the content of my message, I send a lot. I felt totally out of touch not being able to text and am glad to be back in the 21st century and among the texting again.

Food for Thought

2008-06-21T00:25:00.003-04:00

Here we go again with the Friday Fill-ins

1. A smile is the universal ice breaker.
2. __________ is my favorite board or card game. (not sure why I am leaving this blank, I love to play games and haven't in forever- I need more games in my life!!)
3. I would love to have more time with friends in my life and less BS!
4. When I think of the Summer Solstice, I think of balancing an egg on the table.
5. I just remembered I need to __________. (nothing, lately I forget more than I remember)
6. One of my favorite song lyrics goes like this: I have several answers for this one
"sharing a drink they call loneliness is better than drinking a lone"
"Smack Tina Turner, give her flash backs of Ike"
"My next thirty years I'm gonna settle all the scores Cry a little less, laugh a little more"
"Almost heaven, West Virginia.....All my memories gathered round her"
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to getting some sleep, tomorrow my plans include working and Sunday, I want to spending time with D before going to work!

I have no clue why I am awake

2008-06-19T03:11:00.011-04:00

I got 4 hours of sleep yesterday and have been working like crazy, there is no reason for me to be doing anything by sleeping right now; however, I am doing everything but sleeping- Scrapping, Blogging and blog hopping. Good thing I am off tomorrow I have a feeling I will be sleeping most of the day.

Finally got to complete the layout for Sketch3 of the Got Sketch class, those of you that didn't sign up really don't know what you are missing, it has been a great class!! Anyway this is a 2 page layout is a "Tricked out Flipped out Layout" Basically the goal was to be able to get alot of pictures into one layout. I figured wedding pictures were the perfect one for this type of layout- I really wanted to scrap them; however, I was not looking forward to creating tons and tons of layouts with the same pictures, etc. So this is what I came up with. (Be wared not all of the pictures are the best but you get the general idea)

This page has 4 pictures on it, here is what it looks like when you flip up the first picture,

Here is the second page of the double layout- This one has 4 layers of pictures

so here is what it looks like with the first one flipped up and the next picture flipped, and

flipping up the final picture gives you this look, When the 2 pages are next to each other it looks like this - since I am sure you can't read the journaling it is the lyrics to "Finally Found Someone" by Bryan Adams and Barbra Streisand.

So many lines of that song really hit home for D and I- we did start over coffee, even though I told him I wasn't a coffee drinker, he insisted he go to Starbucks after our first date! My favorite line is still can I call you sometime. I remember standing in the parking lot talking to D the weekend that we met and he says to me- so what happens now, are we going to exchange numbers or something? I swear I thought he would have never asked. "Did I keep you waiting" do I really need to explain that one, we started dating in 1999 and got married in 2007- Enough Said!!

Since there is no sketch tomorrow, I should be able to get caught up, I am a sketch behind, which isn't too bad considering I still haven't finished my Journal Your Christmas Project :)

Trying to get caught up

2008-06-14T13:01:00.006-04:00

It took me a little longer to complete sketch 2 than I wanted it to, the important thing is I completed it. I have an idea for the 3rd project, hope to work on that tonight after work or tomorrow before going to my Parents for the Father's Day celebration.

I love the ATG however, I don't like how unforgiving it is. Once you put that paper or picture down, there is very little you can do to get it back up and move it or reposition it. Which is why some of my patterned paper is a little crocked. Oh well, it speaks to my personality! Made the scalloped edge all by myself, first time ever, kind of excited about that, love how it turned out and am sure I will be doing it again, stayed tuned for future scallops.

Having some Fun on Friday

2008-06-13T10:31:00.002-04:00

1. Traveling to all 50 states is high up on my bucket list.
2. My favorite quote is You can't handle the truth; it's from A few good men.
3. Because everyone else was doing it, I felt inspired to start blogging.
4. Strawberries are best covered in chocolate.
5. _____ in the last dream I remember having. (I know I have dreams because everyone does, but I don't remember them)
6. The most enjoyable time to go for a walk is right before the sun sets.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to scrapping before work, tomorrow my plans include more work and Sunday, I want to spend the day with my family since it is Father's Day!

Another Roll bites the dust

2008-06-12T22:53:00.003-04:00

I am so excited, I kicked another roll of ATG tape and that can mean only one thing, I have been scrapping and creating a lot more than I usually do and that my dear is a good thing!!!!

I think I have about 200 of my convention swaps ready to go- or as ready as they can be without the stamping on them. Meaning I have adhered all of my paper to the bases and have cut all the other paper I need to stamp on. The scan isn't as clear as I would like it to be but you get the idea. The base is Taken with Teal, the crimped layer is Chocolate Chip. The "Enjoy" sentiment was stamped in Taken with Teal on Very Vanilla paper. The flower center is Taken with Teal and the flower is stamped in Chocolate chip on Apricot Appeal. "Every Moment" is stamped from the "Enjoy every moment" stamp set, again I used Chocolate Chip. I used the spiral punch on the side, I love the look of the spiral punch, to me this card really says "not to self, take a minute and enjoy life" Convention is 44 days away, I am sure I will have everything done by then, it just gets a little nerve racking when I realize how close it is. The problem is I am not sure if SU! will retire the spiral punch and I won't know until July 15. So the goal is to have all the stamping done and be ready to adhere by then. As soon as the list is published I will be able to finish the card by either using the spiral punch or going to my plan "B".

Got tons of pictures printed today, hope to get a lot of scrapping done. The sketch for yesterday was amazing, I can't wait to get working on that. I love all the creative juices that are flowing lately, hope to keep my mojo going.

The most amazing dinner of my life

2008-06-11T18:36:00.004-04:00

was had last night. Being married to a sales manager has its ups and downs. The downs are that he travels ALOT and is almost NEVER home, the ups are events like last night. D's boss was visiting from California so D, his boss, a customer, myself and a friend of the boss went out to dinner last night. Let me tell you it was like nothing I ever experienced before and I have had some pretty intense meals in my life. We went to Del Posto which is one of five restaurants owned by Mario Batali better known as "Molto Mario"

I don't know where to begin describing the experience, it was that good. I am very rarely speechless and there were several times last night when I had no idea what to say. It was one of those evenings were everytime a course came out and people took the first bit they were like "Oh my God, amazing" or "You have to try this, it is out of this world!" every course was better than the last. I am so not the type of person to try new things when I go out to eat so I was very nervous about what they might bring me.

My appetizer was: Insalata SALUMI Misti with Erbazzone and Stuffed Morel
We had 2 different pastas: Del Posto AGNOLOTTI dal Plin with Parmigiano-Reggiano Butter and Toasted Semolina CRESPELLE with Sweet Garlic, Pancetta & Pesto (I think that is right, anyway, they were out of this world) My main course was PORK Loin with Lucanica, Ceci Spezzatino & Garlic Mustard and D had the Seared HALIBUT with Roman Vegetables Vignarola & Smoked Almond Puree. What meal would be complete without dessert, you have never had anything like the SOUFFLE di Cioccolato with Hazelnut Gelato, I thought I had died and gone to heaven.

Not only was the food amazing, but we managed to find a great wine on the 66
page wine list- yes you read the correctly, 66 pages. I took a picture of the bottle with my phone so I would remember the name of it and of course the picture isn't as clear as I would like it to be so I can't read the lable right now. I will see what I can do about fixing the pic and getting the name of it soon.

All in all it was an amazing night- great good, good wine, amazing company and CO Bigelow Lemon Hand Wash in the bathroom, does it get any better than that?

The block as been lifted.....

2008-06-10T15:01:00.004-04:00

Not sure how it happened or when but I was able to come up with a layout for yesterday's sketch. As you know I am a die hard Giants fan (if you didn't know that you can get some background here and here) Since there is no telling when my favorite boys in blue will win another Superbowl (especially with Michael Strahan retiring), I thought I better cherish this win as long as I could.

The pictures are mounted on a pocket, right now there is nothing in it; however, I am going to put this in there I love the idea of printing your journaling on card stock, not sure why I never thought of it before. Not sure if you can read the journaling- "New York Giants Super Bowl XLII Champions!" "The greatest football story every told. Giants defeat Patriots 17-14. New England loses perfect season why the Giants defeated them on Super Bowl Sunday."

I knew this would happen.....

2008-06-09T19:07:00.001-04:00

Since I signed up for the sketch class, I have been on a roll, cranked out 3 pre-class projects and didn't think twice about it. Had tons of fun creating them and did it in record time. Class offically begins today and here I sit blogging instead of scrapping. I keep looking at the sketch hoping something will jump of the page at me, so far nothing!! I don't even know what pictures I want to use. This is not good people, not good at all.

Has it really been 7 days?

2008-06-06T11:59:00.002-04:00

Questions courtesy of One Knutty Knitter; thank you, Knutty!

I'd love to feature your questions, if you'd like to leave some for future use please feel free!

1. Idle hands are ______. (I have no clue what to say here)
2. I love using my new Mentha Shampoo and Conditioner by CO Bigelow in the shower.
3. My favorite time of the day is when D and I are both home and chilling on the couch together.
4. The last tea I drank was iced tea made from the mix- I love it!!
5. I like to eat a lot of fruit-instead of big meals, in the Summer.
6. My mother always said "don't play ball in the house".
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to getting home from work at a reasonable hour, tomorrow my plans include working, hope to scrap before I go in and Sunday, I want to relax after work (this has been a crazy work week)!

Having so much fun.....

2008-06-05T23:35:00.004-04:00

If you haven't signed up for Got Sketch 101 shame on you!! (Yes Anna and Luz, I am talking to you) We are having so much fun chatting and scrapping.

The most recent assignments was a chipboard project, yet another layout made with Stampin' Up! products and papers. It was the first time I used the "build a brad" I loved it, can't wait to do it again, it is so cool that you never have to go digging through your stash of brads looking for the perfect color again!!

You can't really tell from the scan (not the best scan, in real life it doesn't come off the pp like it looks like it does) but some of the balloons are on "pop dots" so they come off the page.

I am not that skilled with the craft knife so I decided to take some sand paper to the chipboard bracket (not su!) I love the way it turned out! They are posting another sketch tonight, can't wait to see it!!

Feeling Accomplished

2008-06-04T23:39:00.003-04:00

Today was a rather successful scappy day for me. Not only did I decide what my SWAPS will look like for convention, I got all of my cardstock cut! That is no small feat considering I am making 288 cards (kind of an odd number but that is because I am using 8 1/2 x 11 paper, cut into 4 and there are 24 sheets in each pack of paper and I got 3 packs of paper) Because of this amazing device, it took me less than 20 minutes to cut all of the base cards and a second layer of paper.

Seriously this thing is amazing- it cuts through 10 piece of card stock at once. You can read all about it here

As if getting all the card stock cut wasn't enough, I finished my first roll of ATG tape, that means I have done some serious scrapping lately, it takes awhile to go through 36 yards of adhesive. I was a little nervous about changing the roll since the first time I loaded it I did it while watching a tutorial video, no fear- I DID IT all by myself!! *big cheesy grin*

Tomorrow I hope to finish running paper through the paper crimper (I had to give my wrists a break, they were killing me) and get all of the crimped paper mounted on the base card stock so that all I have left to do is to actually stamp (go figure) I need to get my butt in gear considering convention is 55 days away. Kind of impressed with myself, usually I wouldn't start something with 55 days to go, must be getting responsible in my old age :)

As soon as I find the sample I made of my SWAP I will post it, I have no idea what I did with it, not like it is a big deal by the time I am done I will have 287 others to show you!!

Happy Days are Here Again.....

2008-06-03T12:19:00.004-04:00

I the new owner of this: Of course I am not exactly sure what all of these means, but here is my new machine in all of its glory:

Inspiron 1520, Intel Core 2 Duo T7250, 2.0GHz, 800Mhz 2M L2 Cache
Jet Black Color with Matte Finish
3GB, DDR2, 667MHz 2 Dimm
High Resolution, glossy widescreen 15.4 inch display (1440x900)
Intel Integrated Graphics Media Accelerator 3100
250GB 5400RPM SATA Hard Drive for I1520
Microsoft Windows XP Home Service Pack 2, English
XP DELL RESOURCE ,BACK-UP DVD 1520
Media Direct 3.5

Image Restore
Windows Media Player 10
Internet Search and Portal
Dell Owners Manual installed on your system,click on icon after system set-up to access
Icon Consolidation Application
DELL SUPPORT CENTER 2.0
Integrated 10/100 Network Cardand Modem, for Inspiron
ADOBE ACROBAT READER 8.1 DIM/INSP
8X DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Drive
Roxio Creator DE 10
Integrated High Definition Audio 2.0
Dell Wireless 1395 802.11g Mini Card
Integrated 2.0M Pixel Webcam
McAfee Security 9.0, 3-Year Subscription, for Dell Inspiron / Dimension
85 WHr 9-cell Lithium Ion Primary Battery, for Inspiron 1520
1 Year Limited Warranty
Soft Contracts - Banctec
Dell Hardware Warranty PlusOnsite Service, Initial Year
Type 3- Third Party At HomeService, 24x7 TechnicalSupport, Initial Year
Warranty Support,Initial Year
Adobe Premier Elements 4.0 and Photoshop Elements 6.0 Software,DIXV English
Jet Black color w/ 2.0M pixel Camera
Intel Core 2 Duo Processor
You have chosen a Windows XP System
DataSafe Online Dim/Ins/XPS
DataSafe Online Dim/Ins/XPS 1YR-FREE
Insp Datasafe 3GB,1YR(Incl in price),DHS
To activate your online backup account, go to Start, Programs, DataSafe Online

I am not sure what makes me happier, me getting my new computer or no longer having to share a computer with D!! I love the man with all my heart but certain things are not meant to be shared and computers are one of them. I like having all my favorites right where I want them, and my files organized as they need to be, etc. Not to mention I can get on line whenever I want and not have to worry about interfering with his work.

When did all of this happen, when did having a computer become a necessity? Back in my day (I know I sound like I am a thousand years old) it was a big deal if a family had a computer in there house and if they did and it could access the internet you thought they were really important. Now people (when I say people I include myself) often have several computers/laptops in their homes and no one still uses dial up, do they? I can't believe how times are changing- what next, people will be accessing the internet via their cell phones (wait, I do that now) okay so really, what next?

A Rose by any other name wouldn't smell as sweet.....

2008-06-02T03:53:00.001-04:00

Anna took this off someone's blog ao I took it off her blog.

What Kelly Means

You are a seeker of knowledge, and you have learned many things in your life.
You are also a keeper of knowledge - meaning you don't spill secrets or spread gossip.
People sometimes think you're snobby or aloof, but you're just too deep in thought to pay attention to them.

You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone.
You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.
At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.

You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow.
You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily.
Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is.

You are a free spirit, and you resent anyone who tries to fence you in.
You are unpredictable, adventurous, and always a little surprising.
You may miss out by not settling down, but you're too busy having fun to care.

What's" Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

Kind of suprising how much of it is right on....

You have got to go.....

2008-06-01T15:08:00.002-04:00

If you haven't seen "Sex and the City" yet you need to run, not walk to the nearest theater and check it out. It was everything I hoped it would be and more. I loved that they gave enough background that you didn't have to be a fan of the TV show to know what was going on, while filling those TV fans on on what had gone on over the past 5 years. There were subtle references to the TV series throughout the film, but again if you weren't a fan of the TV series you can still see the movie and enjoy it.

Not only did I get to see a great movie today, I got to spend the morning with my husband. We stopped at the local bagel place for breakfast sandwiches (gotta love carrying a big purse) so we had something to eat during the show. All in all it was a great morning- highly recommend it!!

TGIF!

2008-05-30T10:56:00.002-04:00

Questions courtesy of MindFul Mimi who had some thought- provoking ones this week; thank you, Mimi!

1. For me being close minded is the opposite of creativity.
2. _____ was the last excellent book I read. (haven't read an excellent book in awhile)
3. I like fill-ins because they make me think, plus they force me to blog at least once a week.
4. In nature I like looking at is the ocean- it amazes me how vast it is.
5. The candidate who is truly going to bring positive change should win the US elections.
6. The last time I laughed with all my belly was when I was with Dawn- I laughed so hard I thought I was going to pee my pants.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to hanging out with D after work, tomorrow my plans include working and hopefully scrapping and Sunday, I want to see "Sex and the City" before going to work- D is a sucker for SJP, might even be able to get him to go with me!

Luz should be proud of me

2008-05-29T15:31:00.005-04:00

I didn't create on Tuesday but I did create yesterday and today- go Me!! I am having so much fun coming up with layouts for the sketches they are posting before the class even starts. I can only imagine what it will be like once class starts.

Shutterfly delivered almost 300 pictures to my doorstep the other day so of course I had to use those on my layouts.

One of my scrappy friends, Dawn, always has things printed things directly onto her patterned paper or card stock, I never tried that before, and now it is my newest obsession. if I am not printing it directly on the layout, I am printing it on card stock or regular paper and cutting it out. Super cool, great way to work around the whole I hate my hand writing thing.

I have really enjoyed my 2 days off, not only have I gotten some scrappy stuff done, I met up with a bunch of people I work with last night to celebrate some one's birthday. It was really nice, first time I had hung out with the socially and I am really glad I did. Even though they told the cab driver to make sure I got where I was going especially since I just got out of jail!! Good thing the driver didn't speak a lot of English, I would have had some explaining to do if he did.

One of the many reasons I took 2 days off back to back was to prepare for the insanity that next week will bring- Semi Annual Sale starts on Monday!!! (please pray I keep what little sanity I have left)

Mind Games....

2008-05-28T12:56:00.003-04:00

Yet another great round of Unconscious Mutterings

Referral ::Recommendation
Indiana :: Jones
Foil :: Hair Highlights
Horizon :: Sunset
Event :: Party
Sailing :: Ocean
Footage :: Video Tape
Sunday :: Sleeping in
Breathtaking :: View
Dude! :: Where's my car?

Always have fun doing these.

Are you in the house?

2008-05-24T01:59:00.003-04:00

I got an email the other day promoting a class taught by Janna Wilson and Valerie Salmon, it is a ssketch based class and I have never been a sketch scrapper. I decided what the heck it is only $21 and I might learn a thing or two not to mention actually get some layouts created. Class doesn't start until June 9th but Janna and Valerie are doing a great job keeping up pumped about the class, they even posted an extra pre-class challenge for us should we be itching to get started. Of course I couldn't wait to get going so I jumped at the opportunity to get some scrapping done.

It isn't the best layout I ever came up with; however I am celebrating the fact that the challenge has been up for less than 24 hours and I already have a competed layout to go with it!! It is the first time I ever ran my paper through the printer and had something printed right on it. It is always the first 100% Stampin Up layout I have made. I am hoping to get even more done this weekend and will post those too.

Fun Friday!!

2008-05-23T09:27:00.003-04:00

Questions courtesy of Michelle this week

1. On my laziest day I like to sleep and hang out on the couch watching TV!
2. Seeing progress makes me feel like I'm being productive.
3. I love little debt and big paychecks.
4. This summer I want to spend days being lazy poolside instead I will be working.
5. ____ made me start my blog. (can't fill in the blank but I can say I did it because I enjoyed reading everyone else's blog, I wanted to have my own)
6. Red roses and orange mums.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to Yoga in the morning (heading there now), tomorrow my plans include work and Sunday, I want to hang out with my husband but instead I will work!

She said, I thought

2008-05-18T23:04:00.004-04:00

As if getting Friday Fill ins from Anna wasn't enough, I now have Unconscious Mutterings from Luz

Concentration :: thinking
Relocated :: moved
Clot :: blood
Joints :: arthritis pain
Satellite :: dish
Money back :: rebate
Kittens :: frisky
Shady :: crooked
Drain :: liquid
Stroke:: of genius

I had hoped to get some of my London pictures scrapped but I don't have the prints yet, did get some scrapping done with my sister though. No layouts to show they are all at her house- her brother in law is retiring from the air force after 22 years of service so she is making a book of his career for him- she has never scrapped before but is doing a great job.

I did manage to create a card for our Yoga instructor, her 40th birthday party is tomorrow night, now if we could just figure out what we are giving her as a gift!!

It's Officially Friday

2008-05-16T09:01:00.003-04:00

Questions courtesy of Jennifer this week.

1. There is absolutely NO way you can get me to go anywhere near a frog!
2. When I leave work and the sun is still shining, it reminds me that summer is almost here!
3. I cannot live without my diet pepsi.
4. Learning how to cook and mastering (or at least not being afraid of) Photoshop are two things I'd like to try.
5. When life hands you lemons add tequila and make margaritas (said someone on an episode of Property Ladder on TLC).
6. The Christmas when my belief in Santa was reaffirmed is my favorite childhood memory.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to spending time with my sister and BBoy, tomorrow my plans include going to the Shrine Circus and Sunday, I want to scrap some of my pictures from London and enjoy my day off!

As always had a great time answering these.

Took tons of pictures

2008-05-15T09:31:00.005-04:00

We had such a great time in London, took tons of pictures now I just need to order prints and to scrapping!

To quote one of my favorite movie lines- "Look kids, Big Ben"

One of the things that stinks about going on vacation with only 1 person is you have a hard time getting pictures with the two of you in them. You have to resort to things like snapping your reflection in subway windows.

This picture is one D didn't want me to take, but I had to do it for Anna

We had a great time, but as always it is nice to be back and sleeping in your own bed. Too bad coming back from vacation means returning to work!

Happy Days are Here Again!!

2008-05-09T11:48:00.004-04:00

Yet another week of fun Friday Fill-ins!

Questions courtesy of Julie this week

1. The cheesecake had an extra secret ingredient; it was delicious!
2. All I can see is rain through my window.
3. Right now, I need more time, too much to do and never enough time to get it done.
4. Home is where I went Thursday night; it was nice to go to bed early.
5. Why does growing up hurt so much?
6. All I can think of is the great time D and i are going to have in London.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to work, then finish packing, tomorrow my plans include work, then leaving for London and Sunday, I want to take lots of pictures and have fun with my husband!

I give them 2 thumbs up!!

2008-05-07T21:46:00.004-04:00

7 REASONS WHY EVERYBODY IS WEARING FITFLOPS:

1.FitFlop midsoles incorporate patent-pending micro-wobbleboardTM technology, to give you a workout while you walk. Developed by Darren James and Dr David Cook at LSBU, the FitFlop's unique safely -tapered midsole places varying densities of EVA under your feet each time you step, to challenge the support and balance muscles of the foot and leg.

2.They challenge hard to reach muscles more. FitFlops are engineered with a multi-density midsole that stimulates your muscles more while you're wearing them. In independent University testing, FitFlops have been shown to trigger increase gluteal muscle response, increased hamstring response, increase rectus femoris (thigh) response and increased calf muscle response .

3.Every step you take in your FitFlops helps tone and trim your legs: Studies at Salford University by Dr. Philip Graham-Smith and Richard Jones have shown that the FitFlop midsole extends the amount of time that the slow twitch* muscles are engaged during each step (by approximately 10-12%). So just by wearing a pair of FitFlops you'll get more exercise while doing just exactly what you're normally doing. (*slow twitch muscles produce energy by converting fats into energy aerobically)

4.FitFlops work your bum muscles more. FitFlops have been clinically proven to increase the amount of time that the gluteus maximus muscle is 'activated' during every single step.

5.FitFlops have been shown to have a significant effect on the toning muscles of your thighs: The rectus femoris muscle (one of the large muscles in the group of muscles in your thigh) is activated for a longer period of time while walking in FitFlops than while normally shod or barefoot .

6.Walking in FitFlops is like walking barefoot, but a little bit better. According to a study done at the University of Salford in Manchester, UK, the FitFlop wearer's gait is very similar to that of a barefoot walker, but the added cushion provided by the EVA midsole helps reduce joint strain and absorb shock. In fact, several FitFlop wearers have already reported relief from back pain after a few days of wearing them.

7.FitFlops make it easier to stay in shape. Just throw them on while you're running errands, walking to work, or working around your house. Most first-time FitFlop wearers report feeling their muscles working more, while 'fitter' wearers feedback has been more toward great comfort and cushion. One woman reported feeling like she'd had a 'bum-blasting' workout after a half an hour of FitFlop-shod walking.

Reason number 8 should be because I am wearing them and I know the majority of the free world wants to be just like me! But seriously, they are amazing, everything you have read about them is true. If you haven't read about the yet check them out right away!!

Liked Mad Libs only better!!

2008-05-02T00:46:00.004-04:00

Not sure what is going on in Janet's world this weekend but the Friday Fill-ins this week have several references to drinking and 1 reference to being naked, sounds like a great time to me!!

1. Two of my favorite ingredients in a drink are vodka and tequila (not together though, that would kill me)!
2. The human body-especially when it is a baby often amazes me.
3. You can keep doing that forever, the dog is barking (not sure about this one).
4. Add ice, mix it all together and voila! You have the perfect drink!
5. If I had a yard with a garden, I would love to grow rocks because I kill everything else.
6. Everything is best au naturel.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to enjoying my day off, tomorrow my plans include spending time with D (at least I think he is coming home Saturday) and Sunday, I want to do nothing but I have to work!

Happy Mail Days

2008-04-28T21:46:00.009-04:00

Okay so it isn't really 100 days since I started blogging but this is my 100th post so I thought I would celebrate that. Luz recently celebrated her blog anniversary, Kim just started a new blog and Vera and her husband recently celebrated there 1 year wedding anniversary. These events call for a celebration here in blog land. I have additional reason to celebrate- the mailman has been very good to me over the past few days.

First to arrive was my Bind it all then came all of the wires to actually use the Bind It All

and not to be outdone, the ATG arrived today!!!

Here are my goodies in all their glory

Now if only I didn't work so damn much and had time to create stuff with all my new goodies.

I did have time to scrap the other day. Kim suggested a little swap amongst friends. We sent each other some pictures that we wanted scrapped- in addition to sending the pictures, we told the other what size layout we wanted and what the title had to be. I can't wait to start getting the layouts in the mail, it will be so neat to see what everyone created. I still own Kim a layout but I did get Marilee's done (just don't ask me if I have mailed them yet because that is another story!)ever since I got my scallop punch and paper crimper from Stampin' Up! I can't stop making flowers, they are so much fun! I never scrap 8 1/2 x 11 but it wasn't as hard as I thought I would be and with pictures as cute as the one Marilee sent, how could I not make the most of them?

TGIF

2008-04-25T00:59:00.002-04:00

Another week has come and gone which could mean only 1 thing- FRIDAY FILL-INS!!!

1. When I fell in love I was on vacation and realized I missed D more than I have missed anyone else before- told him I loved him almost immediately after I got back!
2. I look forward to the time when the flowers bloom and it heats up outside!
3. Oh no! The internet connection is down, what the hell am I going to do now?
4. _____ is the craziest tv show ever. Not sure about crazy, but 3 1/2 men is one of the funniest shows out there
5. Cheese and pepperoni make a great meal!
6. Love a garden however, I don't have the patience to plant or maintain one.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to D coming home- he has been on the road all week, tomorrow my plans include attending a memorial service for a friend of D's family and Sunday, I want to have a kick @$$ day at work so I won't feel bad for working on a Sunday!

Winning is everything.....

2008-04-21T12:56:00.004-04:00

when it comes to shopping on Ebay. I got in my first official bidding war via text alert yesterday and it was so worth it- look what will coming to my house in the next 2-9 days (gotta love the USPS) and that isn't all, I also get actually those pictures don't do what I WON any justice:

1 Zutter Bind-It-All

Under 3 pounds in weight
Allows continuous punching in any length
Allows continuous binding in any length
Designed for Double Owires fro 5/16" to 1-1/4" diameter
Comes with instructional DVD
1 Zutter Book and Journal Making Tool Kit

All the tools you'll need to create the perfect book or journal.
Tool Kit includes:
6" stainless steel ruler (with anti-skid cork backing)
Bind-it-All designer ball point pen
Mini pliers with soft touch handle
Small precision scissors
Mini wire cutters with soft touch handle
Scoring tool (handmade of real bone)
Piercing tool with interchangable tips (w/ storage compartment for needles)
Large heavy-duty sewing needles
Precision craft knife
Spare blades for craft knife
36" measuring tape (in. and cm.)
All NEW IN PACKAGE

I am so excited, can't wait to start using it.

On a separate ebay note I am 2 days and 7 hours away from being the proud owner of an ATG. Yes that is right, I finally decided to join the 21st century of scrappers and get the much coveted ATG!

Saturday Morning Cartoons

2008-04-20T10:49:00.004-04:00

I am participating in a Cartoon ATC Swap hosted by Kellie over at SisTV you can check it out
here we all picked some great cartoons- Jetsons, Rainbow Brite, Jem, Strawberry Shortcake and the Smurfs to name a few. I picked the Snorks because I had this great idea that I could do some type of underwater layout, here is where the problem begins. I now have no clue what I am going to do. I have Googled the Snorks and got some great pictures- I have narrowed it down to this one since it sums up the show and cast and the show the best. With the picture picked out you would think the hard part was over and I would be able to sit down and crank out the 20 cards I need to make, but that is not the case- I am totally stuck. I am hoping to be able to come up with something today, if/when I do I will be sure to post it. Wish me luck!!

I couldn't go to bed without this

2008-04-19T01:03:00.003-04:00

There was no way I could let a Friday go by without posting my Friday Fill-ins

1. The last time I lost my temper I am sure I pitched a royal fit, I just don't remember when it was or what it was about!
2. Never having enough hours in the day is what I'm fed up with (I chose that instead of getting all political)!
3. The next book I'd like to read is Good to Great. I also want to read "Eat, Pray, Love".
4. Going to London with D is what I'm looking forward to.
5. If you can't get rid of the skeleton[s] in your closet, you must have had tons of fun putting them there!
6. The best thing I got in the mail recently was an invitation to a birthday party.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to spending time with D, tomorrow my plans include working, after work D and I hope to see a movie and Sunday, I want to sleep in before going to work, maybe I will even scrap a little too!

I did it!!!

2008-04-15T00:05:00.003-04:00

I was motivated to complete April's 12 of 12 before May got here (no major accomplishment since I am still working on my "Journal your Christmas" so I grabbed my camera as soon as I woke up and didn't put it down until I was getting ready for bed. More surprisingly I took my camera to work the next day so I could print out some pictures and scrap them when I got home. Can you believe it- I took the pictures, printed them out and scrapped them in a 48 hour period?!?

I was going to post all of the pictures I took but thought it would be better just to post the layout I created- It might not be the most creative layout I ever came up with but I am feeling somewhat accomplished none the less. Doesn't really look like there are 12 pictures but there are (working from the upper left hand corner):

1. My lunch- Spinach stuffed slice from Sabarro and Diet Pepsi from Nathans- why I don't buy my soda from Sabarro is another post
2. It was a beautiful day, sunny and 72 degrees out, I love that my car has a digital thermostat
3. Me driving to work, I love my sunglasses!!!
4. The clouds were so fluffy, I couldn't help but take a picture out my moon roof while sitting at a red light
5. On the way to work my "low fuel" light came on
6. I had to stop and get gas, still can't believe I pay over $3 a gallon
7. I work at the mall, I turn right at the light at least 5 times a week and don't think I ever realized there as a sign pointing to the mall
8. I love being American, our flag and what it represents, I take pictures O'Glory whenever I can
9. I look at that building whenever I am sitting in traffic waiting to turn into the mall, love the way it looks like it is on a slant
10. I know Crocs are not a fashion statement, but they are so comfortable, I wear them back and forth to work everyday, they are like heaven after being in heels all day
11. No better way to end the day than with some ultra pampering products for your hair- I love Fekkai products. Dr. Wexler's foaming facial wash is the best facial wash I have ever used- can't get enough of it.
12. I love all the goodies in my shower, they really help wash all the stress of the day or life in general away

Tried to arrange the pictures in the shape of the number 4 in honor of April being the 4th month. Layout is kind of blah, I feel like it is missing something but I am not going to dwell on it, I will work on making May more creative.

Here we go again......

2008-04-11T10:24:00.002-04:00

I feel like I haven't posted in forever. Thank God for Friday Fillins, at least I post once a week!

1. I love springtime in the northeast, it is great to see the trees getting leaves and the flowers peaking out from the soil!
2. Breakfast of champions- Diet Pepsi and an Icecream Sandwhich are foods I love to eat for breakfast.
3. It seems I'm always searching for my car keys.
4. A hot shower is a great way to end the day.
5. I think I am funny, smart and fun to be around!
6. Time with D is what I've been craving lately (he has been traveling like crazy).
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to spending time with D (I have BBoy this afternoon, that is always fun), tomorrow my plans include taking pictures for the 12 of 12 project and Sunday, I want to have a good day at work and get home early!

Husband of the year

2008-04-08T22:59:00.008-04:00

I know I would like to think I have the best husband in the whole world; however, the pictures below seem to burst my bubble, these men clearly are better husbands than my dear D as a matter of fact, I don't even think D is in the top 5......

Third place goes to Greece....

The men of Poland are not much better.....

Then there are the very romantic men of Ireland......

Not to be out done we have the men of Mexico
Last but not least, check out the men of America, makes me proud to be an American when I see things like this.....

I could cheat on my husband....

2008-04-05T03:10:00.006-04:00

But only if it was with the UPS man, afterall he is the one who delivers D's paycheck every two weeks and he is the one who drops off all my new SU! supplies. Today was an extra happy day, he dropped off 2 boxes with tons of goodies in them. As a result his recent delivery, I was able to get some stuff accomplished. D and I are going to a wedding tomorrow- here is the card we will be giving to the happy couple:

here is the inside,

I finally got to play with the SU rub-ons, I must say they are pretty cool

I got the idea from the amazing gallery on SplitCoastStampers that place is loaded to the gills with inspiration and ideas. I love it there!

As much as I would like to stay up and play with all my new goodies, I need to get my butt to bed or I will be falling asleep at the wedding tomorrow.