Scrappy Wife, Happy Life

a big switch

2012-01-12T10:11:00.000-08:00

Hello friends....

I'm making the switch to typepad. With all of the blogging I do -- and all of the sharing of pages -- I need to be able to do it with more ease for everyone. (Me AND you -- comments can be difficult on blogger!)

Go on over to

http://jenniemcgarvey.typepad.com/scrappy-wife-happy-life/

And please follow me there -- okay?! I have a new page up today and I will have MORE EXCITING news to share soon. So, head over -- okay?!

LOTS to share -- and the Ella Publishing WINNER!

2012-01-11T11:21:00.001-08:00

Ah, where do I begin?

I guess...well, first with the big news -- shall we? I am blown away, humbled, and crazy excited to announce that I am now a Nikki Sivils design team member. There are not words to properly and adequately describe how I'm feeling. I'll just stick with EXCITED!

On January 4, 2011 I started this blog because I decided I was going to get out there with the online scrapping world. I'd been scrapbooking for 9+ years and I knew that this was something I wanted to be a part of. I'd been following scrappers like Susan Weinroth, Kelly Purkey, Becky Higgins, etc and I wanted to join in.

At first, I set meager goals -- 104 pages in 2011 and to blog regularly. I also wanted to get on some kind of design team and get published anywhere by the end of 2011. Within weeks, I was on my first design team (My Sketch World) and had a publication request from Scrapbook Trends. I was BLOWN.AWAY. Seriously on top of the world. My first submission had been picked up -- I couldn't believe it.

As the year went on, I set slightly loftier goals and reached new spots. I was on Design Teams for sketch sites, stores and kit clubs. I had 14 pages picked up for publication in 10 months by 2 different print publications. Not to mention that my albums were much, much heavier with 323 pages created in 2011.

When 2011 came to a close -- I knew I wanted to see, for me, if I could beat 323 pages -- just for fun, no pressure. Just to keep creating how I do and see what would come. I also set a lofty goal - one I thought I wouldn't *really* get at this year. Get on a manufacturer design team. I thought I would be so lucky in 2013 if I kept working hard honing my skills and defining my style.

I never, ever thought that January 9, 2012 would be when I would get the phone call -- the one where my goals became reality. So, I am thrilled and excited and honored and humbled and...more -- to be invited to join amazing people to design with other wonderful scrappers. I can't wait to share it all here...and hope you think it's worth looking at.

Today, I have a page to share -- a fabulous sketch from Pretty Little Studio (whose products I am shamelessly addicted to. vintage images and bright colors?! UM, HELLO!!) using photos taken of two cuties over the holidays.

And, used on that page?! My brand new to me, long awaited TYPEWRITER. I've been wanting this for a very, very long time and I would not settle. Unfortunately, it came broken, so I have to use it as is ... but it'll do. I don't need or want perfection!

AND, now...for the winner of the Ella Publishing TAKE TWELVE winner!

Min: Max: Result:19

MARIELLE!

Please email me ASAP at aj_mcgarvey AT msn DOT com so I can get you the info so you can get started TOMORROW!!!!!

practice makes perfect -- and more good news!

2012-01-10T13:12:00.000-08:00

Last fall, Harrison started playing soccer in our local league. Seriously, 3.5 year olds in organized sports is about the cutest thing EVER. Anyway, we all enjoyed our time there -- most of all Harrison. Even, if it was just at practice!

LOVE these new items from Kesi'Art that were included in the January Studio Calico kit. Seriously awesome designs, texture and colors. I'm totally in love!

And - for my good news!! I'm now on the design team for Vintage Street Market! They have the CUTEST vintage goods that I cannot wait to start playing with -- and sharing with you! Hop on over there and check it out!!!

Full of awesome and an ELLA PUBLISHING giveaway!

2012-01-09T14:16:00.000-08:00

The other day, my youngest, Harrison, and I were getting ready to go grocery shopping. He got ready to go and I turned around to see him -- and this is what I saw.

I immediately snapped a picture -- and the title for this page was just there -- because this boy is full of awesome!

Now, as I posted the other day -- I'm now a member of the Ella Publishing Take Twelve team and I could NOT be happier. I LOVE Ella and the materials they put out -- this is super exciting. You know what else is exciting?! You can win the inspiration kit!

You must be a follower of my blog -- leave a comment with one scrappy goal for 2012 and I will draw a winner on WEDNESDAY! Did you already purchase the kit? You'll get a refund!

Exciting, right?! I think so!

love us together

2012-01-07T12:48:00.001-08:00

A warm, sunny Saturday -- that is what I'm enjoying today! Boys playing outside (bikes, basketball, football, scooters, etc) without jackets. It's an epic kind of day in January!

here's a page I did with last weeks Sketchy Thursday sketch. I totally modified it (flipped it, omitted the big photo, etc) but was happy with how it turned out!

Off to finish a page with my new Studio Calico kit (County Fair!) and then get outside with the boys!

watching emma cheer

2012-01-06T15:15:00.000-08:00

One of our friends in California was a JV football cheerleader. A week or so before we left we finally got to a game to watch her -- we really enjoyed it and I know she was glad we were there!

I made the page based on this weeks Studio Calico sketch of the week! I loved the original page AND the sketch it created -- so I was doubly inclined to take a stab at it!

Bonus? I made the page with Handmade -- a kit I had reserved for a mini album (my November Gratitude album) and wasn't sure I could make pages with. I was wrong!

AND! In super exciting news?! I'm a proud member Ella Publishing's TAKE TWELVE Team! Take Twelve is an exciting photography and scrapbooking challenge to keep you inspired throughout 2012. The idea is to take 12 photos of your everyday life on the 12th of each month and create 12 awesome scrapbook pages that feature 12 photos each. It's the perfect way to celebrate 2012!

I'm super excited and can't wait to share it with you!

the signs of christmas

2012-01-05T18:51:00.000-08:00

Okay, so a few weeks before Christmas, I saw somewhere on the web (a blog, I bet) some super cute Pretty Little Studio stuff. I mean, like the most adorable flags and Santa's you've seen. I had to have some. So, I ordered them up and they arrived yesterday. (It was quite the delay with Christmas, then we were traveling!)

I dug right in. Conveniently, there's a sketch challenge that I LOVED. Awesome new goodies and a sketch that was super cute?! Perfect.

Here's my take!

I plan on looking around the Pretty Little Studio shop tomorrow for some new items, as I've used up almost all of the patterned paper I bought!

Hello, McGarveys!

2012-01-04T10:39:00.000-08:00

Did you hear we moved? LOL, I think the whole world knows we moved. (OUR whole world, that is!) It was an odd time of year to pack up and leave your old home for the new. The week before Halloween really was - an interesting time to transition. We didn't put up a single Halloween decoration (we *did* purchase one small pumpkin for the front step). We trick or treated in a new neighborhood, checking out the local scene.

Then we were pushed full force into the depths of fall and planning for Thanksgiving. (Plus a certain someone's 4th birthday on November 6) We all know how Thanksgiving quickly tumbles into Christmas -- add school and basketball, and you've got a very full schedule.

Now that we've lived in the house 2 months, I think we're getting a feel for it. I know what projects are at the top of the list (boys bath!) and which I can live with for a while longer. (brassy pool bath!) I also know which spots are more wonderful than I ever imagined them to be. (Big tree in the backyard, the screened in porch and the window seat/built ins)

So, here we are! Welcome to the first part of the tour -- the entry, the kitchen, the eat in area and the sun room!

Come in, won't you?

To the right, the dining room. (Aside from the piano and 2 stray barstools, it's furniture-less. It also has gorgeous paint, wallpaper and brass chandelier. All in due time...)

To the left, the scrapbooky. (In the previous formal living room)

Lets head to the kitchen!

The family room is to the right before that desk. It's quite the mess, after I fold the 5 baskets of laundry, I might show you!

Hello, gorgeous! I fell in love with the island immediately...it's huge and full of storage!

(Please note my vice, Diet Coke from McDonalds. I would prefer QT, but it's not an option!)

Another view of my lover...I mean, kitchen island. This time, I'm standing in the area where I could go to the garage/powder room/laundry room OR the dining room

Care to wash our laundry? To the left. Need the loo? To the right. Straight ahead? Garage and bonus room!

Standing in front of the sink you have a view of the dining room. To the right just before the dining room is our cleaning closet.

Here's the sink with the lovely window overlooking the screened in porch. And, just to keep it real, I kept the clean dishes in the sink for you!

And, one of my very favorites, complete with dog bone -- the eat in area of the kitchen.

YES, I know the drum light is crooked and the seam is showing. The handyman we hired was ridiculous. So ridiculous, in fact, I will be touching up paint this weekend! (He did an awesome job hanging our TV?!) So, the light will eventually get fixed...

The window seat and built ins captured with a bad photo. You get the point...and if you'd hurry up and come visit, you could see for yourself. Eventually the cushions will be changed -- that means I would have to pick fabrics and it's kind of low down the list of things I want to do...

What I don't like about this photo? That you can't see my favorite vintage relics on the shelves. Someday, I'll post a better photo!

Here I'm standing in the entry to the sunroom - these doors go the screened back porch and then the backyard.

Standing at the window seat looking back to the kitchen

And, the sunroom right off the eat in part of the kitchen

See those spindles? Staircase to the finished basement. It's all boy down there.

Sunroom. And out that door? The pool and the deck around it. To the left just before it is a closet and a HUGE full bath, affectionately known as the pool bath.

Standing on the way to the pool, looking back toward the eat in kitchen

And, lastly, from the family room looking to the sun room. We had our Christmas tree there this year - it worked really well. Probably won't be as nice when we actually put furniture out here, but we'll cross that bridge when we come to it!

The entry is still painted a nice tan from the previous owners, eventually it'll get a new coat of paint to spruce things up. Otherwise, the other rooms are all Moonshine by Benjamin Moore. A nice light grey, that really keeps things neutral, yet bright. Weird, right? And, it looks great with the copious amounts of molding and tall baseboards!

More coming soon -- the family room, the basement, etc.

My Scrapbooky!

2012-01-04T08:25:00.000-08:00

Ever since my big boys were little they have called my scrapbook space "the scrapbooky". It's totally stuck and it's just the common name around here!

Anyway. A little back story. We moved here (Southern Indiana) in October from Southern California. We lived in SoCal for 5.5 years -- and I had a medium size bedroom with TONS AND TONS of office type built ins. It was STORAGE HEAVEN. The drawers were huge and deep - I could keep SB stuff AND general craft stuff all together. It wasn't PRETTY and it didn't have style, but it was as functional as could be. I really did love it.

Fast forward to Southern Indiana. We have converted a formal living room into the scrapbook room. It was dark and VERY formal with the previous owners. They had a baby grand piano and silk drapes. We installed a ceiling fan (for LOTS of light and possible climate control) and went to town.

We chose this room for accessibility. We also have a huge bonus room and a basement area that could have held the space. This works because I'm always near the family and can hear and see whats going on. It's perfect.

To give you an idea of size -- my work tables are 79 inches wide and 24 inches deep (each). So, I have an overall of 79x48 workspace. It's PERFECT.

Welcome to my scrappy space. I love vintage and re purposed pieces for accent. It's not perfect or particularly neat. I don't have built-ins or anything that resembles order but it's really me and it's just a wonderful space I'm so happy with!

From the entry way to the left:

To the right:

Inside the room to the left of the door

The wooden buffet (I'm going to paint it white this summer!) holds my sizzix dies (YES, I still have a sizzix. Can't beat how it cuts felt or chipboard. Or, anything else, really!). On top is an infant scale that I use for photo prop and on top are layouts to go in albums. The aqua drawers have vintage milk bottle caps in them.

The red boxes have misc. craft items and some completed projects. (Banners, etc)

The windows plus a small desk for my laptop, silhouette and to heat emboss/glue gun

The wire green rack above the laptop desk holds my embossing powders and misc. other stuff. It's not full, but that is how I like it. Full of potential!

The main wall -- what you see when you enter the room.

Tiny drawers for all kinds of things -- ink pads, old embellishments I never use but can't let go of, foam brushes, etc. Not completely full -- but again, just how I like it! Room to grow!

The wall display is completely taken from Elizabeth Kartchner. The day she posted it on her blog I fell in love. I ran to Ikea the next day to stock up on frames and I made a similar wall display. It was perfect for the photos I knew I wanted to be special and on display!

The Coke box has Thickers STUFFED in there, like I can hardly get them out. The overflow has gone into the bottom of the wire basket tiered thing. The middle has some mini albums -- the top empty! (PERFECT!)

The locker has misc craft items and my sizzix machine ... just stuff I need/want but don't need OUT.

My main workspace. Where I sit. Where the pages get made. The fruit box houses scraps on the left side on the floor, on the right is the most current stuff I've got. The wooden tray on top has my gratitude mini album I need to work on. The yellow/brown box has stamps, tags, etc.

My awesome chair. You're probably appalled by it. It's the messiest thing EVER. First, I'm planning on replacing it when I find the perfect thing. Second, my youngest (now 4!) colored and painted on it -- and I find it kind of charming. Not in a keep it forever kind of way, but in a it works for now kind of way!

Top left drawer:

The last little corner. For now, it's got an aqua ladder and a box of cards I've made but never sent. We're waiting until the PERFECT arm chair comes along. I don't want to settle, I want it to be perfect for the space. So, until then - it has an Iowa tomato box. PERFECT for me -- I love nothing more than home grown Iowa tomatoes!

The view into the family room

The black TV armoire holds my 12x12 paper in cropper hopper vertical files.

The walls are painted Benjamin Moore Moonshine -- and we still need window coverings. All in due time!

2011 in numbers...and a card

2012-01-03T17:51:00.000-08:00

So, for 2011 I:

Made 323 pages
Made 42 cards (that I photographed, could have been more!)
made 5 banners
made 6 mini albums
made other altered items, as well.

WHEW. My goals for 2012? Well, I'd like to beat those numbers, just to see if I can! Today, I made 3 cards and 2 pages...so, we'll see!

Anyway. Here's one of those cards...the other stuff was samples for CHA so I can't share (YET!) but, this quickie I can.

Not a fan of the green and pink together, after all...but I needed the card to mail tomorrow. It'll do!

not at all friends

2012-01-01T07:40:00.000-08:00

We have a cat. A 12 year old cat. He's always been pretty tolerant of the kids -- as long as they leave him alone. (For the most part!) To say that he is not fond of Harrison is an understatement.

2011

2011-12-31T07:29:00.000-08:00

11 of my favorite pages from 2011:

the new light

2011-12-30T07:22:00.000-08:00

Shortly after we moved into our new home, Campbell needed a bedside lamp. He's a big reader and was reading every night before bed. Once Cam got the lamp, Sawyer thought he needed one too. A couple of nights after we got the lamp for him, Sawyer told me how he loved the lamp because he could use it for drawing or reading! Of course, he'd already drawn a whole page of guys and a scene to go with!

handy Andy

2011-12-29T07:12:00.000-08:00

My poor husband. All of this time he's had to endure my mentions of his lack of skills in the home improvement category. Over Thanksgiving weekend, we purchased a wooden swing set -- a swing set that he was going to put together. I had my doubts, but I was encouraging him to try it out.

And you know what?! HE DID IT. He put the whole thing together with his dad's help. I couldn't be more proud.

four

2011-12-28T07:08:00.000-08:00

I saw a page on Pinterest that had white on white. There were letters and a small photo. As soon as I saw it -- I had an idea. I knew I could take this idea and adapt it to fit my needs and my style.

I replaced the 4 with Harrison's 4 year photo. I stayed with the white theme, but I added the strips and the drawn in corners. This page was much more minimal than the original and I LOVE IT!

you are my sunshine, my only sunshine

2011-12-27T06:56:00.000-08:00

I know that sometimes when a piece of patterned paper comes along that I LOVE -- I want to do something great with it. This striped piece of October Afternoon paper was one I really wanted to make shine!

So, when I looked at these photos of my boys, I knew I really wanted them to be on a special page, too. Put it all together and what have you got? One that I really like!

your best handwriting

2011-12-26T06:53:00.000-08:00

Both of my older boys have atrocious handwriting. I don't know if it's unique to them or if it's something that all young boys share. I do know, however, it's a real stretch for Campbell to write anything that is super neat.

A few weeks back, Campbell attached a sign to his door documenting some rules for entrance to his lair. What did I notice first? The incredibly neat penmanship, of course!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T07:16:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from my family and I!

our elf Buddy

2011-12-23T18:49:00.000-08:00

It's an original name, Buddy the Elf. The boys named him some years back after, of course, Buddy in the movie Elf. So, every year I seem to do a page about him, it IS, after all, a huge part of our holiday. Seems quite fitting!

Happy Holidays ... Merry Christmas ... I hope you and your loved ones are happy and healthy!

Seeing santa

2011-12-21T14:30:00.000-08:00

The sunshine we had early this morning is LONG gone, leaving grey skies and now..dark. Luckily, the Christmas tree lights are twinkling and 3 boys are quiet -- until the next eruption of emotion. Likely, it'll be over who hit who or who has the coveted small notebook. Reminders that Santa/Buddy the Elf are watching no longer seem to work...they might have worn off weeks ago!

However, if I look at this page I see fake smiles and can think of happy moments -- visiting Santa and telling him this years' desires!

Santa Claus, IN and the WINNERS!

2011-12-20T11:33:00.001-08:00

Okay, so...the last day of school for the bigs. I'm happy - for a lot of reasons. But, it's going to cut into my quiet time...alot.

A couple of weeks ago we went to Santa Claus, IN to visit since my Mom was visiting - it turned out to be tiny and charming. We picked up our annual new ornaments and had fun driving through the display of lights at Lake Rudolph.

Now for the giveaway winners!
Monday: JUSTINA!
Tuesday: Patricia!
Thursday: Margie!
Friday: Lisa M!

Email me at aj_mcgarvey AT msn DOT com and I will get these out to you very soon!

feeling good and hungry skyline time...

2011-12-19T07:27:00.000-08:00

We lived in Cincinnati for 4.5 years and really grew to love it. One of the things that we have missed about it is Cincinnati Chili. The oyster crackers, the 4 way with light onions, all of it.

So, when we moved to Southern Indiana and learned that there was a Skyline (or more!) in Louisville -- we were thrilled. So, we drove over for a bit of shopping (Archivers and Trader Joes!) and dined at Skyline. Andy and I were so happy to expose the boys to this culinary delight!

More Studio Calico with Brooklyn Flea.

And, yesterday we took the boys to see Santa -- we'd been missing the Irvine Regional Park's take on the Santa experience, so we'd been putting it off. Instead of a trainride to the North Pole, complete with snow...we braved the mall.

every single night

2011-12-17T19:29:00.001-08:00

every night before my oldest son goes to bed, he reads. the light is dim beside his bed, he's covered and it's so wonderful. it really warms my heart to see him so interested in reading. devouring series after series.

her first snow...another giveaway...and a peak at my space!

2011-12-16T10:42:00.000-08:00

Hey there!

The good news is...we are in escrow on our California house! We should be able to close on 12-30, so by 2012 I will only own one home. That's exciting! It's sad though, because I'm not happy about leaving southern California behind. (Said by someone who is FREEZING right now...I have to keep rubbing my hands together to warm them up!)

Speaking of cold...and the snow we had a few weeks back. Our dog, Holly Golightly, is only 20 months old. So, she'd never seen snow before! Watching her outside in it was nothing short of comedy! So, I did a page about it with the December Paper Bakery add-on kit! (I even used my silhouette!!)

Now, just a quick peek into my scrapbook space. We moved into this house and we knew that we would use the formal living room for my space. We have a bonus room and a basement, as well -- but this seemed the most connected to the family space. It's right inside the front door and has french doors connecting to the family room. We will also put french doors on the entryway to the foyer...probably this spring once things have died down a bit!

an old TV cabinet. to the left, the french doors to the family room. This houses all of my cardstock and a few small chipboard albums.

On my working area -- houses tools, mist, labels, etc.

In case you couldn't tell, I'm going for a bit of an eclectic mix. I've got light grey walls and some black furniture, some white with mostly vintage accents. The accents may be vintage but they aren't floral or shabby chic. Totally fun, totally me.

Now, another little giveaway! Just small -- nothing huge. Again -- MUST be a follower, leave a nice comment -- I will draw on Monday!

Off to make a page or two until I make cupcakes with the boys!

It's Thursday?! How did that happen?! Plus another giveaway!

2011-12-15T07:21:00.000-08:00

There were 3 good things that happened yesterday!

1. I got 3 pages picked up for the May 2012 issue of Scrapbook Trends!

2. We got a 2nd offer on our house that is still for sale in CA. So, that makes 2 offers on the table. VERY exciting.

3. I bought a couple of pieces of furniture for the scrapbook room (or scrapbooky as it's known here!) that I think are going to work out great!

Okay, so we're all in the spirit of the holidays...and I, for one, am LOVING it! My boys have 4 more days of school until we're off for a couple of weeks and until the holidays! Here's a page with the big boys lists for Santa...and whoever else will listen! I used the super cute Nikki Sivils Gingerbread Lane paper...I could barely get my hands on any locally, but what I could -- I snapped right up. LOVE this plaid in this -- it's just the perfect shades of red and green!

And, the giveaway! As usual...you must be a follower -- leave a comment -- US only! There are give aways all week...if you didn't enter Monday/Tuesday -- go back and do that!

Have a great day!!

we have fun together and ANOTHER GIVEAWAY!

2011-12-13T15:27:00.000-08:00

There's a giveaway on yesterday's post, too! If you didn't enter go back and check it out!

This page is so fun to me...love the smiling faces of my boys, genuine smiles and the memories of the fun we create together! It's not always sunshine and roses, but when it's good -- it's good!

This is from the December Studio Calico main kit -- Brooklyn Flea. LOVE those exclusive Thickers. Super fun and the color is totally a favorite.

Now, for the giveaway! A couple of fun Maya Road items...chipboard buttons and some lovely pink flowers!

To win you MUST be a follower of this blog and be a US resident. I love internationals -- but I don't have time before the holiday to get to the Post Office! Leave an upbeat comment and I will choose a winner at the beginning of next week!

PLAY and a GIVEAWAY!!

2011-12-12T15:06:00.001-08:00

Hello!

Today, I sat down again with the Studio Calico add-on kit, Shiny Brite (the main kit was Brooklyn Flea) and made a page about my youngest son, Harrison. I'm really happy with how it turned out!

Okay, now...for the giveaway! I'm going to give stuff away all week long. Today you will win these two stamp sets from My Little Shoebox!

To win: 1. You must be a follower of this blog. 2. You must live in the US. (I'm sorry internationals, I really am. I have had my other give aways open to you -- but right now I just don't have time to actually *GO* to the post office. I'll do a giveaway in January open to everyone!) 3. Leave a comment (preferably a pleasant one!) for me!

I will choose winners for all of the giveaways NEXT MONDAY!

Scrappy Sunday

2011-12-11T16:24:00.001-08:00

Hello there! I don't normally post on Sundays...gotta take one day off, you know?!

But, Stephanie Howell posted a little challenge of sorts today on the Studio Calico message board and I had a pile of photos to scrap...so here I am!

Creative Memories

2011-12-10T05:58:00.000-08:00

Hello friends!

I didn't mention it on here yet, but I'm in the 2nd round for becoming part of the Creative Memories design team! Do you have any idea how excited I am?! I mean really, their products are super high quality and their tools are fantastic! Why wouldn't I want to do this, is what I want to know!

Anyway, I received the Holidazzle kit and I couldn't be happier! The stuff is ADORABLE. Seriously cute. The die cuts are a great weight and so are the papers. Why am I telling you this? Just in case you haven't checked out Creative Memories in a while. I was super impressed!

I made 3 projects I thought I would share here with you. I kept them simple, kind of in the vein of the Creative Memories way. I kept the focus on the photos or on the message, depending on the project. The Creative Memories products are awesome accents and I'm really very happy with how my projects turned out!

I'm sure you would agree that this stuff is CUTE! It was super to use, too!

Come back next week for some give aways! Nothing huge, nothing earth-shattering -- but a few little gifts in this, the holiday season!

Brrr....

2011-12-09T13:22:00.000-08:00

With the chill in the air I thought I would share a cute wintery card! Made with the Pink Paislee snow days collection -- LOVE.

The past few days I've been working on my Amy Tangerine mini album. I'm pleased to report it is finished. I'm super happy with how it turned out and I look forward to sharing it with all of you.

Happy Friday!

2011-12-08T06:41:00.000-08:00

A few weeks back, we had some snow flurries. To you, not a big deal. To me, HUGE deal. We've lived in Southern California for 5.5 years and my kids have really not had any time with snow. AT ALL. *I'VE* not had any time with snow. So, it was pretty coming down...but I'm not a fan.

GORGEOUS Pink Paislee papers, ephemera and wood shapes...love this line. All available at www.yourscrapbookstash.com .

shaving

2011-12-07T05:37:00.000-08:00

All 3 of my boys have gone through wanting to do grown up things. Not the usual teenager desires like staying home alone or driving...but things like daddy. Take shaving, for instance. A few weeks ago Harrison found the old child razor to pretend t0 shave. And of course, he took it upon himself to try it out!

The supplies? Studio Calico Field Guide, of course!

waiting

2011-12-06T15:11:00.000-08:00

A funny story:

Yesterday, I was going to take a photo of my oldest son doing something. He jumped up from where he was and said "you're going to make a scrapbook page out of this and then it'll be in a magazine!" He was right, I was going to make a page out of the photo. As far as the magazine goes -- he has no idea that it's not that easy!

Anyway, a quick page with more Field Guide (studio calico)! The kit is still going strong -- there's not that much left, but there are still several full sheets left and plenty of embellishments! I think there could be a few more pages left...(this is the 13th page with Field Guide!)

Please forgive the not so good photo. We've had more gloomy days than I know what to do with!

Now santa can come!

2011-12-05T13:09:00.000-08:00

Because, you know...once the house is decorated -- it's really Christmas. Maybe not, but it sure feels like it!

Anyway, here's a page I whipped up based on the latest challenge/sketch from My Minds Eye! I loved the sketch and I had the photos already taken -- so why not, right? It doesn't hurt and I get another page in my book.

I got to go to Archivers yesterday and scooped up these gorgeous MME 12 days of Christmas items. LOVE THEM. I had gone in there crossing my fingers they would have the fun day stuff (they did!) and I had forgotten all about this stuff.

Christmas cards

2011-12-03T09:45:00.000-08:00

Since I have Christmas cards on the brain (I'm finishing mine up RIGHT NOW!) I have a quick share of a Christmas card for you!

Made with supplies from the Paper Bakery "baby it's cold outside" kit!

Stickers, fabric and vintage papers all make for a fun and festive card! Hope you're having a great weekend!

roast piggies

2011-12-01T08:22:00.000-08:00

Harrison is newly 4, I think we're all aware. One of my favorite things about him, right now, is that he LOVES to do "this little piggy". Except he calls it roast piggies. We do it daily. Love this right now.

Love this. Love him.

It snowed

2011-11-30T07:20:00.000-08:00

As the title would suggest, it snowed here yesterday. Being transplants to this area -- it was Holly's first snow ever -- and Harrison's first snow at his home. It really consumed most of the day. So much so that Harrison is STILL talking about when it will snow again. I'm hopeful it will never snow again!

Anyway, a quick layout about saying goodbye to the best friend...everyone's best friend. All 3 of them claim the same kid. Pretty sweet.

Christmas Magic

2011-11-28T06:07:00.000-08:00

Hi!

Now that we're past Thanksgiving, I can definitely feel good about sharing Christmas related projects. I don't like to forget about Thanksgiving -- being thankful is one of the most important things to me! Instead of a December Daily or anything like that I did a gratitude journal this year. Of course, it's not complete -- but it will be soon. (Right, because I have Christmas cards to do, a few small gifts to make and some wonderful projects for the Paper Bakery to complete!)

Anyway. A fun page made with the November Paper Bakery kit, Baby it's Cold Outside!

I hope you enjoy the holiday season as much as I'm going to!

Bus Riders

2011-11-26T11:54:00.000-08:00

So I've been eyeing this recent chevron trend with great interest. I really enjoy the pattern and I really enjoy how folks have been creating their own chevron shapes out of strips of paper.

Each time I see a page, I think about how super cute it is -- and how I'd like to do it. The thing holding me back (until now)? Laziness. Plain and simple laziness. I'd have to cut a bunch of strips, make them into a chevron and adhere them in an orderly fashion. SO.MUCH.WORK. Work I'm not willing to do.

Then, I decided I'd just do a modified chevron -- not doing the whole page. Just a couple of accents. Then, this page was born!

Another page from the glorious Field Guide kit -- Studio Calico, of course.

any given morning

2011-11-25T07:02:00.000-08:00

When I lived in Southern California I had a coterie of great friends. They were a wide reaching groups, all kinds of different girls with different backgrounds. However, I had one friend in particular that I spent a lot of time with -- just because we enjoyed each others company.

We had a ritual that a couple of mornings a week we would go to our favorite donut shop for breakfast. My favorite part? The Diet Coke in the Styrofoam cup. Anyway, it was always such a treat and I wanted to make sure I captured that in our albums so Harrison and I wouldn't forget our morning trips.

Gift bag album

2011-11-24T01:13:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving friends! And for those non-US friends, HELLO!

There's so much to be thankful for -- so much in our lives that is good and worthy of gratitude. I'm thankful for all the obvious and I'm so thankful for fun scrappy goodness and inspiration!

Anyway, I wanted to show you a new way to think about the Paper Bakery November add-on kit! When I received mine in the mail, after smiling with delight, I thought about these gift bags included with the kit. I knew the obvious answer would be to decorate them up adorably and use them to give a gift to someone special. However, something was nagging at me and I knew I had to do something else.

So, a modified December album was born! I didn't want to do a December Daily, per se. But, I *did* want to capture a whole bunch of December memories from 2010 in one place. So, I put together the bags, some patterned paper and some other fun items to make a festive and fun mini album! (The Echo Park paper was PERFECT for this!)

You know what the best part of this kit is, aside from the fantastic array of supplies? That there is enough stuff (papers AND embellishments!) to complete this mini album, 2 cards AND a 12x12 scrapbook page! That's a wonderful value!

--Jennie

PS- Sorry about the photos being a bit off. Some settings had gotten changed on my camera and I just noticed!

new school

2011-11-22T07:09:00.000-08:00

So part of the move was a new school for everyone, not just the big boys. I had so carefully chosen Harrison's preschool in California and really, really loved it. Now, I had to choose something different -- make a change. This is hard considering the child in question is your BABY.

Anyway, we chose a new school and all seems well. We're thankful for this.

You have to forgive the photography here. The day I took the photos of a bunch of pages we had a lot of shadows and I'm still learning when/where to photograph the pages!

almost there...

2011-11-21T07:42:00.000-08:00

It seemed only right when we were flying from SoCal to Indiana, that I take a few photos. Unfortunately, I didn't remember to take very many, since there WAS a lot going on. However, I did manage to get a few -- and it seemed fitting to scrap them. All part of our story..

Lots of goodness here...and I have Studio Calico's Field Guide to thank. Seriously, hands down, favorite kit ever. I didn't know it was possible to love a kit so much. However, I have already made *12* pages with this kit (started less than a week ago, I think!) and there is LOTS left. (Disclaimer, I did get 3 add ons and extra paper for that yummy exclusive Sassafrass Lass!) Hope you like it, too because you will be seeing LOTS more!

old&new

2011-11-19T06:56:00.000-08:00

Hey! I wanted to share with you a page I created in my first days here in Indiana. Our household goods weren't even here yet, we were just in the house with contractors doing small jobs and my scrapping supplies. (Well, some of them!)

I love this one. When I started making it I wasn't sure what I was going to get. But, these Glitz goodies from your scrapbook stash ended up being perfect.

Kind of feels perfect for the cold, blustery day we're having today!

dual purpose card

2011-11-17T12:35:00.000-08:00

Hey there!!

I know for me, my kids go to A LOT of birthday parties and give A LOT of gifts at the holidays. (teachers, friends, etc) Sometimes, though, you are giving a gift card -- how do you create something functional yet cute/fun/lovely?!

For me, it was EASY with The Paper Bakery's Baby It's Cold Outside add on. I loved so many of the elements in the kit and it was easy to create a fun card with the pieces.

Slide a gift card of any denomination in the small glassine bag and smile, knowing you gave a gift in a really festive presentation!

little lady

2011-11-16T13:18:00.000-08:00

This morning I was perusing some of my bookmarks, making time for the luxuries of looking at pretty layouts and yummy recipes. I came to the Sketchy Thursdays sketch for this week and realized I had JUST taken a few photos with my phone that I could totally use.

Harrison found a ladybug this morning and he was quite smitten with the creature. He moved her all over and switched her gently from hand to hand. He was *QUITE* surprised when he learned she had wings. And she could FLY! It was a sight!

2011-11-15T17:07:00.000-08:00

I would say flying 2,000 miles away from home to look for a new house DEFINITELY marks the beginning of an adventure!

In late August/early September my husband, sons and I embarked on our journey to find a new home. I brought my big camera but also my instax to document the journey and I am so glad that I did. We came home with some fun and unique images preserving our moments.

Enter some fun Glitz goodies from My Scrapbook Stash and you have some FUN!

WHAT have I been up to?!

2011-11-14T13:52:00.000-08:00

I can't answer that. I mean, obviously, we're adjusting to life in a new house across the country. Obviously I'm taking care of 3 kids and a house. Obviously I'm living life. BUT, we also had weekend visitors and I've not had much time to scrap.

However, I have been working on a gratitude journal based on my status updates on facebook for the month of November. AND, this layout. One of my favorites ever. Seriously. Ever. I hope you like it too -- made with Studio Calico's Field Guide. My favorite kit ever, which really surprises me.

And, on other subjects. Have you heard that The Paper Bakery is having a design team call? Well, they are and you should totally apply if you're thinking about it. Sarah has amazing kits and she's great to work with. :)

the best

2011-11-09T11:29:00.000-08:00

Ah, my friends...the best crew anyone could ask for. They are fun, loyal, dependable, and so much more. So, it should come as no surprise that I was so incredibly sad to leave them. So, during my first few days in the new house, while waiting for our household goods, I whipped up a layout about them...the best friends a girl could have!

My friend, the preggo in the front, has since had her first boy (and 4th child!), Jaren. I'm so sad to have not met him!

new

2011-11-08T10:50:00.000-08:00

I've been working...lots on my new house and some with paper. Today I finished a mini album, made a page and 2 cards with my November Paper Bakery kit...I'm about to go work on a few more things. But, you know what? I thought I would show you a tiny bit of where I do my scrappy work now!

This is my main work space...the french doors lead to our family room as this room used to be a formal living room. Since we have a sun room and a basement family room as well we decided we didn't need a formal living room and that this space would be perfect for an office/scrapbooky.

The view out my window. Seeing the lovely fall view never gets old!

a sneak peek for The Paper Bakery!

2011-11-05T07:53:00.001-07:00

Happy Saturday!

I have been gazing at the November Add-On, Baby It's Cold Outside, for a while -- wondering what I could do with it. The papers are so cute, the embellishments are perfect and the letter stickers are my FAVORITES. Needless to say, I wanted to create something wonderful with a kit this great.

After sitting back and thinking about it for a while, I think I have come up with something fantastic. I only hope when you see the full reveal you agree. For now, here's a couple of sneak peeks!

{the mists are not included with the kit, just some that I'm LOVING using with these papers!}

SING!

2011-11-04T10:56:00.000-07:00

Hello scrappy friends!

I had a sketch up (10 days ago...my bad!) on the yourscrapbookstash blog that I created -- I was quite happy with how it turned out. And, I made a fun layout from it with the Glitz goodies I got for the month of October. Turned out fun!

Why not make a page using my sketch?! And while you're at it, post a link here so I can see it!

Please do forgive...

2011-11-03T07:24:00.001-07:00

We did move 10 days ago from California to Southern Indiana and we're settling in. I have new stuff to share with you, but no time to photograph it! I've got rooms to put away (it's all unpacked, courtesy of the movers!!) and not enough time to do it!

In AWESOME news, I got another layout picked up by Creating Keepsakes! So, keep a look out in May/June 2012!

I'll try and post a page tomorrow!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T05:17:00.000-07:00

BOO! I hope you and your critters have a fun, spooky and spectacular day!

the good life

2011-10-29T05:13:00.000-07:00

Because it's Saturday, and Saturday is my favorite day of the week...I'm going to show you my favorite (or one of them!) layout that I've done in a while.

Why do I love it? EASY. I absolutely, positively ADORE the Amy Tangerine goodies (American Crafts!). ALL of them. I couldn't pick a favorite. But, if you made me -- it'd be the thickers. I LOVE those Thickers! The next part, the photos. Some of my favorites EVER. True story!

Seriously. I love it -- thanks to my September kit from yourscrapbookstash I had SO much Amy Tangerine to play with. If you don't have some, get it!

And, don't forget to play along with the 2 challenges over on the yourscrapbookstash blog!

Happy Birthday...again!

2011-10-28T05:08:00.000-07:00

Remember when I told you I'd become a card making fool? Well, I wasn't lying. And, I wasn't done showing you my cards. I've still got 2 left to show you from my latest binge. The one for today? A birthday greeting! My favorite kind.

happy birthday to you...

2011-10-27T04:40:00.000-07:00

I know, I know...I claimed I wasn't a card maker. Slowly, but surely, card making has become something I actually, *gasp*, enjoy! Whipping up a card or two with scraps -- or even making one for a specific purpose has become FUN!

A quick and festive birthday card for a 9 year old boy!

thank you!

2011-10-26T04:38:00.000-07:00

In the past few weeks I've found myself needing a thank you card or two for various reasons. Luckily for me, I knew just the stuff to use to whip one up. You guessed it! (Paper Bakery, of course!)

trick or treat

2011-10-25T04:34:00.000-07:00

We're fully on the way to halloween, with it being a less than a week away!

Need a quick card? This one with goodies from the October Paper Bakery kit fits the bill!

love reading

2011-10-24T04:31:00.000-07:00

Well, we've done it. We now reside in the state of Indiana. Whew. Now, once we can move into our house, we can get settled. That will be a treat, after all of this feeling up in the air!

Anyway. A quick share of page I made a few weeks ago. There are some funny photos here!

apple of my eye

2011-10-22T04:28:00.000-07:00

Just a quick share of a card I made to be a note card. I wanted to send my cousin a sweet little note after my grandma's funeral, letting him know how special something he did was. We all need those reminders every now and again!

white blankie

2011-10-21T04:25:00.000-07:00

Each of my boys has had a special lovey. My oldest, Campbell, had a blue chenille blankie that he loved to rub and chew on the tassles on the ends. My middle, Saywer, had a stuffed froggie that he loved/loves to pick at. Harrison, has a blankie that has a white soft side and one side with chenille. He LOVES this blankie. He'd bring it everywhere, if I'd let him!

Happy Fall

2011-10-20T04:24:00.000-07:00

When I received the Paper Bakery October kit in the mail, this was the first thing I made. I was seriously smitten with the brown ribbon. YUM YUM YUM!

Happy Fall, y'all!

Surreal

2011-10-19T04:20:00.000-07:00

I know by the time my cross country move is over you are going to be SICK.OF.IT. I know...I would be too. In fact, I'm already a little sick of it. We're already past the fun and kind of exciting part, we are down to the part that is stressful -- and sad. The goodbyes and tying up lose ends. BLECH.

Anyway. It's pretty surreal to see a for sale sign in front of your house. It's made me re-evaluate our life here and how happy it's been. This has been a great house and I'm sad to leave...though I'm happy for what we're moving on to!

LOVED Glee Club from Studio Calico. SO MANY fun goodies in this kit!

thankful

2011-10-18T16:11:00.000-07:00

This topic seems a bit perfect, since I'm sitting here reminiscing about our time here in Southern California. Tomorrow, the movers will be here to begin packing our belongings, and Sunday we'll be gone for good.

I'm so thankful for the time we've had here, I've made the most amazing memories, and the best of friends. We've had so many good times and had the time of our lives.

Here's a little card made with the Paper Bakery October Add-On...I loved this kit so!

A lot of Crate Paper and a little Jillibean Soup!

October Paper Bakery reveal

2011-10-17T07:46:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know I'm a few days behind and these Paper Bakery kits went live on Friday. Unfortunately for me, I was in Iowa all last week for my grandma's funeral. So, I was a bit behind. However, this kit was AMAZING and it took me no time at all. AND, before I knew it I had a layout, an altered item AND 6 cards. There is seriously stuff left, too. I mean like, another page or a few more cards.

This kit is sold out, but the main kit (Um, hello!! FANTASTIC!!) is still available. AND, you can get on the list for your subscription to NOT miss out again. Really, it's what I'd do!

Okay, so the kit!

Here's the layout I made:

And the little hanging halloween banner!

Keep checking back because you haven't seen the 6 cards -- and a few of them, I actually really like!!

a favorite

2011-10-15T08:22:00.000-07:00

You know how when you make a layout and it's finished -- you get that feeling -- you know the one. The one where you smile and LOVE THAT PAGE. Well, here's a simple one of mine that I just love. I love the photos, the design and all the elements together. I just love it when that happens!!

This was all made with my Studio Calico Glee Club kit and add-ons. Love the page, love the kit!

an amy tangerine mini album!

2011-10-14T05:13:00.000-07:00

Once, I had seen a fun little mini album on Elizabeth Kartchner's blog. I filed it away in my brain for future reference, knowing I would someday want to make one with some adhesive fabric sheets. (Either hers, or now, Amy Tangerine's!)

Well, the time came and with a 4x12 piece of adhesive fabric from Amy Tangerine's new line, a few sheets of patterned paper and a couple of other things (little ribbon and a couple of die cuts) I whipped up a cute and simple mini album!

I love mine, it's full of photos of houses we looked at on our recent house hunting trip. Some of the good, some faves and a couple we weren't so fond of. Glad to have these memories documented in one cute little place!

Fun, right? I assure you it's easy to make, you can buy the necessary supplies at your scrapbook stash and would be a perfect gift if you need something quick! Make sure to upload yours in the gallery!

a halloween mini banner!

2011-10-14T00:09:00.001-07:00

Hello scrappy friends! Sorry for my departure from the blog, I've had a rough few days. Last Friday, October 7, my beloved grandma passed away. There were a couple of days that were very sad, and then a few days when I went to my hometown that were even sadder. Now I'm back to share my pages and projects with you!

I knew when I got my hands on Echo Park's Apothecary Emporium I needed to make something fun, yet special! WHAT I would make didn't come to me for quite a few days, however. I toyed with the idea of a shadow box or 7 gypsies tray. It occurred to me to make a paper wreath. I finally settled on a mini banner.

What's a mini banner? In this case it's not a banner with a base of chipboard and it's really not big enough to hang on my mantle. (Due to the nature of the holiday and all of the letters used, it wouldn't look weird on my mantle, but that isn't the point!) I have a mirror in my entry way that I thought would really benefit from a little holiday cheer. Thus, the mini banner was born!

For this particular banner (Happy Halloween!) I cut 9 pieces of patterned paper (relying heavily on my favorite sheet, Spider webs!) in strips that were 1.75 inches by 3 inches long. I also punched out 6 circles with one of my circle punches.

The rest is as simple as can be! I used a border punch or cut the bottom of the paper. I also added a punched circle or sticker to the strip before adhering the letters to spell Happy Halloween. When they were all complete I scored the tops of the strips so I could glue them to the bakers twine!

Once the two strands were tied together they were ready to hang! Nothing new, nothing complicated just simple and fun -- not to mention FESTIVE in a matter of minutes!

Apothecary Emporium is definitely a fun, festive and spooky holiday perfect for pages or altered items! All of the fun elements are available in the your scrapbook stash store!

the black angel

2011-10-10T06:09:00.000-07:00

today, I'm headed to my home town to pay my final respects to my beloved grandmother. so, i leave you with few words and a layout about a landmark from my home town.

vegas, baby!

2011-10-07T20:06:00.000-07:00

while sassy lil' sketches may be closing up shop to spend more time on life (gee, there's an idea! ha ha!) it isn't without a big send off! There's one last sketch for each team of sassies - and still some prizes!

spooky greetings

2011-10-06T20:33:00.000-07:00

When I received my FANTASTIC kit for October from your scrapbook stash I knew I could make some fun cards with the Echo Park Apothecary Emporium. The patterned papers are fantastic and the sticker sheets were so fun!

These are simple and were intended to be quick cards you could use in a pinch! Need a card to go with a quick gift for a neighbor? These are the cards for you!

October Paper Bakery kits

2011-10-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

Okay. I have to tell you -- I saw the kits that are coming for October and WHOA! You need to see these! Actually, you need to BUY this kit. Seriously. I know a lot of people say that about alot of kits -- but this kit, it's one you'll make and use and use and use!

Wanna take a peak?

Looks fabulous, right?! If you want to get your hands on one they will be available on October 15, but you CAN pre-order. Email Sarah at sarah.hill528@gmail.com for your Single purchase kit: $36, 3 Month sub $34, 6 Month sub $32, 12 Month sub, $30. These kits are TOTALLY worth it. Plus, she has inexpensive add ons that go with the kit that are gorgeous!

Also -- she's looking for a sketch designer! Would you be interested? Check it out here!

one awesome kid!

2011-10-01T15:26:00.000-07:00

I have 3 sons, and my oldest is 10. He is a great kid -- very responsible, smart, funny and athletic. He has his bad points too, but I prefer to focus on the good when I sit and think about him! ;)

Anyway, for a scraplift challenge this week over at my scrapbook nook, I did a page about him and what an awesome kid he is!

Lots of Pebbles goodies here -- love this newest release, fresh goods!

great plains

2011-09-29T05:08:00.000-07:00

YUM! I'm hungry just thinking about this delicious, thick and cheesy pizza from one of my favorite places ever!

This photo has the best story behind it and I couldn't wait to get it down onto paper. And the paper? Well, the chevron from Authentique is GENIUS! This line was part of my September kit from yourscrapbookstash.com and I am IN LOVE with Authentique.

I wasn't sure -- I mean, it's a little feminine and a little frilly. You know what, though? It's really not. It worked just fine for a boy mama like me.

school time

2011-09-28T15:26:00.001-07:00

Harrison goes to a lovely little preschool and I wanted to get a couple of pictures down on a page to remember the fun he has there and how stinking cute he looks while he is at school. Enter these photos and this week's Sketchy Thursdays sketch and we have a winner!

what eight looks like

2011-09-27T05:27:00.000-07:00

My middlest son has been eight for almost 6 months. bad me! but, I wanted to capture all of the wonderful things about him at eight years old. Here are a few...

THREE

2011-09-26T13:20:00.000-07:00

We're in the home stretch to four...but I'm determined to squeak out every last bit of three. I want to enjoy that he still says "biz" instead of because and he'll wear funky shoes with shorts. (Cowboy boots or faux uggs!) I want to enjoy he's still little and three because four definitely sounds so old...

feel better soon

2011-09-23T09:52:00.000-07:00

I have a friend whose daughter is sick and in the hospital. So, the other day I whipped up a card to send to her in the hospital. Just a quick and cute share!

I used my September Studio Calico kit, Glee Club and some Mister Huey in Piglet and Blue Grass to jazz things up!

back to the ball field

2011-09-22T06:15:00.000-07:00

I love the My Minds Eye challenges! A fun sketch and great products? What's not to love?

So, this month I followed the sketch, subbing a square for a circle and came up with this. I love that it's a fun layout about baseball but doesn't look like your typical sports page!

Love all of the fun colors that are in Lime Twist! And the patterns are to die for!!

washing the dog

2011-09-21T06:06:00.000-07:00

So, here's what happened. This morning, I went to let the dog in. She'd been digging in the mud. She was muddy and I had to wash her off. She's a golden retriever, so she looks hilarious wet -- so i took a couple of photos with my instax.

After I came in, I was thinking of what page to make next...then I realized it was Tuesday and I should check the Sketchy Thursdays sketch. And, this page was born.

I used my Studio Calico September kit, Glee Club. One of my very favorite pieces is in here -- the number border sticker. I need about 32 more of those.

beach bliss with Sassy Lil Sketches!

2011-09-20T04:44:00.000-07:00

Yea!! It's once again that time...time for my Sassy Lil sketches reveal!

I must say, I LOVED this sketch. And the layout I created with it? One of my favorites this year. I loved the Boardwalk kit by Studio Calico and that pair it up with the sketch? WOOHOO!

Anyway, here's the sketch and my take on it!

And, the Sassy Lil Sketches sponsor this month!? AUTHENTIQUE PAPER!!

A halloween layout plus a {WINNER}

2011-09-19T15:14:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I worked in snippets of stolen moments on this fun halloween layout. I knew I wanted to make a 2 pager with these papers (Studio Calico kit) and photos. It so happened that Jessy Christopher put up a 2 page sketch on the your scrapbook stash blog and it was perfect. I modified it to suit my needs but it was perfect. Happy as a clam with this one!

Now, for the winner, random.org says that MARGIE gets the stamps! So, Margie -- send me an email at aj_mcgarvey AT msn DOT com and I will get those out to you!

Have a great day, friends!

Paper Issues BLOG HOP and a GIVEAWAY!

2011-09-16T12:39:00.001-07:00

Okay, so I'm a little late to the game. Friday's will do that to you -- okay, they will to me. So, please forgive me. Anyway...

My layout for the blog hop. Last Sunday, 09.11.11, my family, some friends, and I went to the Angel v. Yankees baseball game at Angel Stadium. It was a perfect day and there was an amazing tribute to the heroes and their families of 09.11. I took a couple of photos and whipped up a layout using my 3 Scrappy Boys add-on kit!

And, for my giveaway! A lucky winner will win a set of Studio Calico label stamps!

If you would like to win, leave a comment BY MONDAY AT 8:00 am telling me what scrappy item you're lusting after right now!

Now, finish hopping, will ya?

Also, the Paper Issues Etsy Shop is offering a 25% discount if you use this MAGICAL code:

HOP25

Altered Girls
1. Lori Hairston
2. Susan Tutt
3. Shellye McDaniel
4.Lana Bisson
5. Peg Hewitt
6. Amy Baldwin
7. Leah Crowe
8. Sabrina Alery
9.Lowri McNabb
10.Hilary Kanwischer
11.Kim Castillon
12. Cassie Box
13. Wendy Antenucci
14. Christina Colón
15. Kimmie Sue

Scrapbook Girls
1. Crystal Beshear
2. Michelle Hernandez
3.Joanna Bandelin
5. Jodi Baune
6. Holly Humbert
7. Monika Wright
8. Jennie McGarvey
9. Melissa Priest
10. Joan Liddle
11. Tiffany Call
Card Girls

1. Jeannie DeGruccio

2. Bethany Crowell

3. Corri Garza

4. Cathy Dippolito

5. Gretchen McElveen

6. Diana Fisher

7. Kristy Dalman

8. Kelly Ratcliff

9. Ruby McGuire

10. Jess Mutty

Paper Bakery September Reveal!

2011-09-15T10:47:00.001-07:00

Let me tell you -- this is a kit you DO NOT want to miss. Between the main mini album and the add-on, you are getting an amazing kit from the Paper Bakery!

Here's the mini album, Goodbye Summer

And here is the add-on kit, Hello Summer!

They look gorgeous, don't they!?

I got the add-on to work with and let me tell you -- there are some FUN pieces I loved in there. Let me show you a little of what I made with the add-on!

And my favorite:

This was an amazing day. We spent it with friends at the San Clemente State Beach. While the kids were riding the waves and I was digging my toes in the sand...the Barnum and Bailey circus train went through! The train tracks are steps from the beach and we got to see the circus train. It was so fun and incredibly fascinating. I love that beach!

Anyway. As you can see, I created 3 layouts and 2 cards with this $11 add on kit! I had left overs and I have plans for those!! I can go on and on about the main kit -- the gorgeous goodbye summer mini album! These kits are in short supply, so go order yours now! And, while you're at it -- tell Sarah I sent you!

born this way

2011-09-14T15:34:00.000-07:00

So, when I saw the Sketchy Thursdays sketch this week, I KNEW I had to do it. Not only does it appeal to my sensibilities, but I had the perfect photos, too.

Now, when I broke out my Studio Calico kit, Glee Club, I felt like it'd be a good fit for these fun photos. I think it was!! BUT, it was hard for me to put the bottom photo askew. I mean, the crazy nature of the photos totally called for it, but I am not a fan of crooked photos. So, the OCD in me wants to rip it off and straighten it. BUT, I'm not going to. NOPE. Not gonna do it.

The road

2011-09-13T20:34:00.000-07:00

Last week on the your scrapbook stash blog I posted a tutorial on how to heat emboss chipboard. TOTALLY not new or revolutionary, but I had showed someone how to do it not that long ago -- so I figured there had to be some other scrappers out there that didn't know or wasn't sure.

Anyway, the layout showcasing the heat embossed chipboard is the one below, created with my August kit. I ended up loving this layout and it's completely not my style -- style and content wise.

family traditions

2011-09-12T12:18:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone here has had as wonderful of a weekend as I did. We packed in lots of fun and plenty of time for remembrance of 09.11. Now, however, it's time to show you a layout!

Last week, Heather posted a challenge on the 3 Scrappy Boys message board! Her challenge was to use one of the September Page Maps! Of course I wanted to play right along. I used my September add-on kit and whipped up this quick two pager!

I wish I could show you the layout side by side, but it's just not in the cards. However, take a look at those embellishments!! This kit was one of my favorites ever! I loved the papers and the embellishments. I kept the overall layout simple, like always but dressed it up a little with the embellishment cluster on the right.

I think you should go check out the challenge and play along!

buried treasure

2011-09-10T10:54:00.001-07:00

When I saw this past Sunday's Sunday sketch over at Studio Calico, I knew that I had the perfect photo for it. So, I dug in with my Boardwalk kit and created a layout that I'm very happy with. :) 6 layouts done with this kit and still going strong. Wonder what my final tally will be?

the ride

2011-09-09T09:04:00.000-07:00

Whew! After a big birthday (10 for my biggest boy) and now my littlest is sick -- I'm running to catch up. But, with a few spare moments here's a layout I created with my new yourscrapbookstash kit for September. Serious love for this Amy Tangerine stuff -- it's fun, funky and easy to use! I have a list a mile of long to create with the rest of the goodies I have, so keep an eye out!

Anyway, the page. I used Alyssa's 09.02 sketch to make this one -- a little mist gone wrong turned out good!!

indiana boy

2011-09-07T16:29:00.001-07:00

What happens when you pair the 3 Scrappy Boys September add-on kit with Sketchy Thursdays? A freaking fantastic page, that is what!

This kit is just wonderful with goodies from Pebbles and some other fun stuff thrown in. The sketch is a perfect one for that one special photo (or more if you choose to alter the sketch, which I often do!).

Yes, this cutie (and the other two, as well!) is about to become an Indiana boy. The house is secured, the area scouted and the plans finalized!

best friends do everything together

2011-09-05T06:20:00.000-07:00

This page is a wee bit bittersweet to me. See, we are moving soon. We're uprooting our lives from Southern California to Southern Indiana in a few short weeks. We've lived here for 5.5 years and it's all the kids really remember. We're going to be leaving their school, their sports teams and...their friends.

So, a simple layout about friends swimming together makes me feel a bit sad, knowing soon we will be leaving this all behind...

Could you BEE any cuter?

2011-09-03T06:18:00.000-07:00

It's funny because I wasn't sure how I was going to use this paper. I bought it because I loved the honeycomb/hexagon pattern and the little bumblebees. Honestly though, I thought it'd become part of the stash.

Enter this picture of Campbell. All I could think of was how cute he is eating his ribs with a mess all over his face. Could he BEE any cuter? Even at nearly 10? Nope, not to me.

first

2011-09-02T06:12:00.000-07:00

It's funny how with a young child their lives are all about firsts. First bath, first steps, first smile, etc. That trend continues into their toddler years too. Before you know it you are recording other firsts, like first soccer practices. Where has my baby gone?

I used the Boardwalk kit (August) from Studio Calico and I think it fit perfectly!

Congratulations!

2011-09-01T06:19:00.000-07:00

Just a quick card share today, nothing spectacular. As usual, same disclaimer is necessary! I'm not a card maker, nor do I pretend to be. However, sometimes I need a card or I have an assignment to make one. So, I do my best!

starting him early

2011-08-31T06:16:00.000-07:00

Seriously?! Yes, my 3 year old enjoys a can of cold Diet Coke. yes, he drinks more than I would like. NO, he doesn't have a can of his own. Only a sip of mine here or there. That's only because it's my rule, if he had it his way, he'd have a can in his hand that belonged to only him!

ninety

2011-08-30T06:14:00.000-07:00

Since I'd received my Studio Calico Mind the Gap kit, (and the pint add on!) I knew I needed to use the vintagey feeling papers to do a layout about my Grandpa. I got a chance to spend a little time with him on our trip AND he turned 90 in August. Seems like a great reason to do a page!

thirty five

2011-08-29T06:11:00.000-07:00

When I saw Sketchy Thursdays sketch this week, I was a little nervous. Eh, circles? Not so much for me. But, I knew once I had seen a neat design for circles. So, I thought I would take the 6 six circles in the ST sketch and smash them all together. Some would be photos, some would be paper...but the result, super fun!

{summer} banner

2011-08-27T12:06:00.001-07:00

I've got this thing with banners. I love 'em. I make one for every occasion. I've made 5 so far this year. I do think I ought to slow down, though. There are so many a person can display and/or store. AND, when a piece falls off of one, my dog is quick to eat it. That's a fail, for sure.

Anyway, I knew when I got the Maya Road strawberry coaster album in the your scrapbook stash store that I had to make a banner with it. It'd be cute, sweet and summery. That meant I had to pair it with the Echo Park Summer Days papers.

Help it out with some Tattered Angels glimmer glam and it's fit for summer.

Dress it up with tulle, buttons, vintage pieces and Studio Calico notions and it's ready to be displayed!

{Sorry if you think photographing in the grass is a bit odd. i thought it seemed very summery

and that it accented the colors nicely!}

Happy Birthday!

2011-08-26T06:21:00.000-07:00

Just a quick birthday card share today since it's FRIDAY! Woohoo!!

Anyway, just a fun, simple card that is perfect for a child or adult perfect! I used Echo Park Summer days and a bit of tissue paper garland to make a festive card!

Now go on out and enjoy that weekend!