Beautiful Blossoms - Sing Spring!

Kaylie climbing a tree at Smith’s Woods. 03-23-2006Sing Spring Collection, by Sausan Designs, SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17283&cat=0&page=1Buttonhole from Debbie Pearson's Miss Independent kit @SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16362&cat=0&page=1
Additional Credits: Fonts: Gill Sans Mt, Embossing Tape; Template and flourishes by Andrea Gold. Sanded overlay by Christine Smith.

6 Degrees of Separation Chall. @ Scrapbook-Graphics

This is such a cool challenge! Can't wait to do some more pages...

This is the layout that inspired that my page, My McJob: http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=6563&cat=3046I was inspired by the color’s of Bree’s page, the use of 3 buttons to affix the photo and the big strip of bg. paper matting the photo and her journaling to the effect that her job is not easy.Today was a great day...it was pajama day at your school. You behaved in class and earned a good note from the teacher. However, things changed for the worse when you got home. You picked a fight with Kaylie because you wanted to see her “bring home book” whether she wanted or not. You hit her, were screaming and just having a total meltdown. For a time out, I made you sit on the stairs so you could relax and calm down. You were so mad at me and were giving me dirty looks. You can be seen here giving me the evil eye. Sometimes life can be so hard for a high-strong boy like you.Romantique Sophisticate page set, by Doris Castle, Scrapbook-GraphicsBorder on mat by Mindy Terasawa, DesignerDigitalsWord art (title) by Katie Pertiet, Designer DigitalsTemplate by Alma Townsend, The Scrap HabitFont: Century Gothic

School Project Time! Liam and the Owl

Liam came home very excited today and couldn’t wait to show me the latest project he made at school. The owl was constructed out of brown paper bag, construction paper and felt. His teacher cut out and decorated the wings, while Liam did the gluing and assembly. In the picture, he can be seen demonstrating the owl’s ability to “stand” on its legs. For a pre-schooler, he is creating some wonderful crafts, but most important, he is having fun while learning. 1-15-2007Thank you for looking. Have a wonderful day. Kait

Additional Credits: ChickClick: Wide Open Space, by Rachael Giallongo, TheDigiChick. Font: Gill Sans Mt, Futura Xblack Bt. Inked edge done with an action by Atomic Cupcake.

I used Willow Page set by Carrie Stephens at Scrapbook-Graphics.

OUT OF BOUNDS! Backyard Visitor: The Junco Sparrow

I love making this pop of our pictures and frames...see the bird's tail...it is such a neat trick!

All winter long I have been spying on these Junco sparrows. They are a bit on the skittish side, but I have been able to get close to them by placing seeds near the back door entrance. January 25, 2007.Little Nostalgic set, by Sausan Designs-Scrapbook-GraphicsAltered Artistry Brushes: Foliage, by Sausan Designs-Scrapbook-Graphics(Note: Several bgs. were blended to achieve the color and texture of the border)TK Stamp by Taran Conyers-Scrapbook-Graphics.

Click chick (template): Color Blocked, by Rachael Giallongo-TheDigiChick. Metal Charm alpha by Miss Mint.

Nothing Can Keep Us From Our Beloved Lake

Kaylie and Liam braving the weather to visit Smithville Lake, which is completely frozen. 02-08-2007Thank you for looking. Have a wonderful day. Kait

Click Chick (template): Wide Open Spaces by Rachael Giallongo- TheDigiChick. Tag, tape and brad from a sampler by Carla Gibson-Oscrap. Buttons from Beautiful Dreamer sampler by NicoleW-Oscraps. Staples from Ksharon's Fresh Start kit. Bird/Vulture Brush by Kait Gonzalez.
Babycakes page set, by Jessica Bolton-SBG

Scrap Therapy #9 at Scrapbook-Graphics - Pivotal Moment

Sometimes events happen for a reason. When I lost my son shortly after being born, life as I knew it came to an end. Gone were the rose-colored glasses with which I viewed life. My eyes opened to the stark reality that as much as I wanted my son to be alive, I couldn’t bring him back. I can’t tell you what happened in the months that followed...it is all a blur. Hours turned into days, days turned into weeks, and weeks turned into months. Time and life went on. I had to return to normal life whether I wanted or not. I enrolled at the Cittone Institute of Technology for a course in Office Automation. I excelled in my classes and was asked to be class valedictorian. I declined it because I hate being the center of attention. After graduation, I applied to a few places and even found the perfect job, for which I was more than qualified and even paid me more than I had asked form but I was not happy. After two weeks in the job, I quit. One day I noticed an ad in the newspaper from an adoption agency looking for a secretary. I interviewed for the position and subsequently hired. While there, I learned all I could about adoptions, from both an adoptive parent’s and a birth parent’s position. With eyes wide open, it became clear to me that this was Providence guiding my way to regain that which I had lost: a precious child. On January 3, 2001 my beloved daughter was born, as was I. Sixteen months later I was blessed with my son Liam. My rose colored glasses are back on for good! Kaylie and Daddy, January 4th, 2001Gaze page set, by Carrie Stephens, Scrapbook-GraphicsFrame: Groupie set #1 by Doris Castle, Scrapbook-GraphicsDuplicates: Growth Spur by Heather Roselli/Rachael Giallongo, TheDigiChick . Scalloped edge (recolored) by Mindy Terasawa, DesignerDigitals. Font: Don Semi-Formal and SA Kiss

Reality Scrap! Gosh, You Are Beautiful (How to Romance Your Pizza and Eat It Too!)

An everyday event, Liam repeating something that he heard from the T.V.We went to the Moorestown Mall yesterday and on our way home stopped to pick up a pizza for the kids. Kaylie finished eating her pizza, left the table thus leaving Liam alone. All of a sudden I heard Liam talking. He was saying, “Gosh, You Are Beautiful,” as he was eating his pizza. I busted out laughing upon hearing this and asked him why he was talking to his food. He gave me a look of disgust while telling me to not listen to him talking. (His way of saying, “Mind your own business, Mom!) He recently saw an episode of the”Fairly OddParents” where Timmy was telling Trixie, “Gosh, You Are Beautiful!? I guess Liam felt it necessary to compliment his pizza and worthy of such loving declaration.

Raggedy Andy page set, by Roberta D’Achille, Rendered MemoriesTemplate by Misty Cato at Treasures to Scrap. Font: LD Notepad, S Uneven, James Fajardo, Letter Gothic Line

Quote Challenge at Scrapbook-Graphics

Layout done for a Quote challenge at SBG.What is it that you express in your eyes? It seems to me more than all the words I have read in my life. --Walt WhitmanAll About Her Poetry Words, by Traci Sims.http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17251&cat=0&page=1Faded Date Stamp by Traci Sims, SBG.http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17231&cat=0&page=1Lovely Page set, by Traci Sims, SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17201&cat=0&page=1

Additional Credits: Inked border around the page by Christine Smith, The DigiChick. Inked edges done with an action by Atomic Cupcake. Stitched ribbon done with a ribbon template by KHMize-ribbons-TortugaTemplate9, DesignerDigitals

Kaylie Turns 6!

Kaylie Turns 6 years old. Bent frames from Traci Sims’ Picture This element set at Scrapbook-Graphicshttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17230&cat=0&page=1Happy Birthday Collection page set, by the Studio Girls at Scrapbook-Graphicshttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17238&cat=3&page=1Modified template by Bree Clarkson (part of the birthday kit)Magical stars are a freebie from Doris Castle.Font: Century Gothic

Each Day Comes Bearing Its Own Gifts

Each day comes bearing its own gifts. Untie the ribbons.(Kaylie playing in the sandbox, the swings, and climbing a tree. Strawbridge Lake Park, 6/10/2006)Wonderful Creation page set, by Carrie Stephens, ScrapbookGraphicshttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17205&cat=0&page=1ScrapDrawers: Photo Lifts by Doris Castle, SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17198&cat=250&page=2Circular stitching from Carrie Stephens’s Little Lady page set, at SBG

Additional Credits: Chick Click: In Love With Dots, by Rachael Giallongo, TheDigiChick. Grosgrain ribbon done using a template KHMize-ribbons-TortugaTemplate9, DesignerDigitals. Font: Minion

Duck, Duck, Silly Goose

Liam chasing the geese at Strawbridge Lake Park.(He thought the geese were ducks and I thought he was a silly goose!)Valentino, Valentina Paper Packs 1 and 2, by Sausan Designs, Scrapbook-GraphicsPaper1: http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17229Paper2: http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17228Ink Stamps and dots, by Doris Castle, Scrapbook-Graphicshttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16666&cat=251&page=4Font: Century Gothic

Additional Credits: Chick Click template: In Love With Dots, by Rachael Giallongo, TheDigiChick. Buttons done with Designer Photohop action by Roberta D’Achille, RenderedMemories

The Naturalist

On our way home we stopped at the Exit 52 Overpass to rest and stretch our legs. As always, we noticed an area with vegetation and a path. Along the path we discovered a moth, a spider and various flowers. Exit 52, Rt. 295, Rest Area.Little Miss Green, by Sausan Designs, SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17244&cat=0&page=1Font: Century Gothic

Additional Credits: Chick Clicks templates: All In The Details, by Rachael Giallongo, TheDigiChick. Cracked wall action used to give the bg. paper an aged look. Staple and tag from Ronnie McCray's Jewelry set at SBB

True Love

Lily is Kaylie’s first doll. They do everything together. While Kaylie has grown and has many other dolls, noone can take Lily’s place in her heart.(Kaylie kissing Lily while hosting a tea party for all her dolls.)Duplicates - Silly OneSketch 2, by Heather Roselli Rachael Giallongo at the DigiChickTrue Love page set, by Doris Castle. Exclusive for DST.Font: Susie's Hand and Trebuchet.Inked edges done with an action by atomic cupcake.

Can We Build It? Challenge at Scrapbook-Graphics

Can We Build It Challenge: (Must use 5 papers, 4 brads, 2 ribbons, 1 circle)

My Dearest Kaylie, You are growing up fast and turning into such a sweet and delightful little girl. At times, I forget that you have your own individuality and know what you want and like. For example, today, for school, you asked me if you could wear a Christmas dress that Daddy chose and bought for you at Christmas time. When I said no, you begged again. You really love the dress (any dress, if truth be told). I changed my mind and let your wear it; you were ecstatic. I did warn you that other kids might make fun of you, but you didn’t care. I waited anxiously for your return home to find out if anyone made a comment about your Christmas dress....luckily they didn’t. I know that I can be over protective of you, but I don’t want anyone to damage your self-esteem. I hope you know that I am proud of you and will do anything to keep you out of harm’s way. I want you to always remember that while I might no always give in to your desires, I will always have your best interest at heart. Love, Mom.Love Potion page set, by Taran Conyers, SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17186&cat=0&page=1Template (modified) by Christine SmithBrads from Carrie Stephen’s Fandango kit, SBGOff white Bg. paper from Legible set No. 1, by Meredith Fenwick, SBGWhite lace from Traci Sims’ Winter White page set, SBGInk stamp Alpha and spots, by Doris Castle, SBGStains on paper from Jessica Bolton’s Cornfed collection, SBGFonts: AvanteGarde, Mariah

The Photo Shoot

Why is it so hard to get a smile out of you? Every time I tell you to smile these are the faces you make. It doesn’t matter; you still are a handsome lad and I so love each and every one of your so called smiles.

Credits: Not Quite Men Collection – Papers – Jessica Bolton, at SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17237&cat=0&page=1Not Quite Men Collection – Elements – Jessica Bolton, SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17236Clapboard and camera overlay: Thingamajigs Stamps/Brushes, by Maya, SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16309&cat=0&page=5

Love One Another

Kaylie and Liam sharing sweet moments while pretend-fishing at the lake. 05-18-2006Font: Sweetheart ScriptInked edges: Scrap Edges 1 set at Cottage ArtsTemplate by Rachael Giallongo - SillyOne, DigichickPhoto corner and bg. paper from SWEET NOTHINGS paper pack at CottageArts. Short stitch, stamp blossom, title and alpha from SIMPLY LOVE page set at CottageArts.

The Walk-In Refrigerator (Reality Scrap's challenge at Scrapbook-Graphics

Page for this week's reality scraps challenge.

You would think that we really do own a WALK-IN REFRIGERATOR. Though Liam is only 4 years old, he is able to stand on the base of the refrigerator to grab things off of the shelves (usually milk and juice). If he thinks that I am taking too long to get him something, he will open it, walk in and get whatever he wants. 1-24-2007.Genuine page set by Sara Carling, SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16639&cat=0&page=2Launchpad Collection #2 by Bree Clarkson, SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17133&cat=283&page=2Doodles – Arrows, by Sausan Designs, Scrapbook-Graphicshttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16942&cat=0&page=1Bendit frame by Debbie Knorr at SBB.Fonts: Bambino and S Uneven

Baby, It's Cold OUtside

Kaylie making snow angels and the biggest snowball ever!Credits: Frozen Tundra page set, by Taran Conyers, SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16475&cat=0&page=1Other credits: Duplicate-Tropical Breeze,#1, by Heather Roselli/Rachael Giallongo@TheDigiChick.Bendit frames by Debbie Knorr, SBBFont: Arial NarrowSnow overlay from Roberta D'Achille's Christmas Flannel page set @RenderedMemoriesSnowday stamp by Julie Mead @E-scapeandscrap.Crumpled brushes courtesy of/by Jennifer Vogel. Thanks Jenn!

Girl Defined

As I look at you here, I wonder how you turned out to be such a girly girl. At the tender age of 5, you love to wear lip gloss and dress up. It does not matter if you are just going grocery shopping, you must look your best. You can’t wait to be older to be able to wear lipstick, eye shadow, blush and high heel shoes. I do enjoy our conversations about things that you expect to do in the future. Wearing makeup being of most importance to you.A New Day page set, by Debbie Pearson, SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17199&cat=0&page=1ScrapDrawers: Dictionary Definitions by Doris Castle @ SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17210&cat=0&page=1(Note: The shadow frame was customized with a paper from the kit.)(Note1: I blended 3 bg. papers to achieve the background paper in my layout.)(Note2: Jewels were extracted from a flower and re-colored to suit my page)

Vellum alpha by MissMint @ Peppermint Creative. Stitched Folder Ribbon by Amy Martin @LilyPad

Take Time to Smell the Flowers

On our walks at Smithville Lake, Kaylie usually searches for wild flowers to decorate her hair. . I am so glad that she is developing an appreciation for the finer pleasures in life.Groupies 3 by Doris Castle, SBG,http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17173&cat=0&page=1Kit; Spring Meadow page set by Ronna Penner, SBG. (Note: I merged 2 bg. pprs. and recolored the paper from blue to pink to suite my page.)http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16212&cat=0&page=1

Additional Credits: Susie's Hand, Beguiat Bk Bt, Trebuchet Mt. Folder corner done with an action by Jen Caputo, thedigishoppe. Duplicates – Cutie Pie, by Heather Roselli and Rachael Giallongo, TheDigiChick. Jewelry Tag (recolored) by Ronnie McCray, SBB. Rub-on (Flowers) t

A Day Full of Discoveries

While at the lake we spotted many animals at the lake. Of special interest were the bullfrog and snake (see lower left corner photo (with leaf on its head)

We were exploring at Smith’s Lake, and while there, I spotted a snake using a leaf as camouflage, except its body was exposed in full view, while underwater. Liam discovered this handsome bullfrog, sitting in the shade, long enough for me to snap a few shots.Double Stuff - Bonacqua Paper Pack By Sausanhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17181&cat=0&page=1Buttons, pin and paint stroke from Traci Sim's freestyle element set at SBG.http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17184&cat=0&page=1Swirls from Sara Carling's Genuine Page set at SBG.http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16639&cat=0&page=1Altered Artistry Brushes, by Sausan Designs at SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=5019&cat=500&ppuser=4310

Additional Credits: Fonts: Carolynsprint, BlackJack, Arial. Rub-on title done with an action from Atomic Cupcake. Duplicates-Cutie Pie set, Sketch #1, by Rachael Giallongo /Heather Roselli at TheDigiChick.

Brief Moments

“Life gives us brief moments with another...but sometimes in those brief moments we get memories that last a life time.”

(Kaylie & Liam out for a leisure walk at Smithville Lake. Kaylie was thrilled that Liam gave her some wildflowers.) 10-05-2006

Credits: Floralia Black Grunge Reloaded page set by Sausan Designs at Scrapbook-Graphics: http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17085&cat=0&page=3Altered Artistry - Pressed Flowers 3 by Sausan Designs at SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17087&cat=0&page=1Template #41 – Launchpads Collection 9, by Bree Clarkson, SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17191&cat=283&page=1Font: TK Stamped: http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16624&cat=279&page=1and TXT AnnesiaDate stamp by Amber Clegg, ScrapArtist.
· Date

Rustic Nature (a free kit by Kait Gonzalez)

Finally, it seems like ages since I created anything...but without further ado, I present you...RUSTIC NATURE. Inspired by my many walks at the lake.


I had a lot of fun making it, so I hopy you enjoy it. Be kind and leave a comment if your grab it.
Kait

Rustic Nature -links

http://www.4shared.com/file/11164157/128833dc/KGonzalez-RusticNature-Papers-Overlay.html

http://www.4shared.com/file/11164734/d956b952/KGonzalez-RusticNature-Elements.html

Posting Contest At Scrapbook-Graphics and Opening of Forums

Have you heard the news? Scrapbook-Graphics just opened up their forums and is hosting a posting contest! The Studio Crew CT girls, of which I am one, made a hodge podge to reward all who achieve the alloted number of comments in the gallery and forums.

Here is a preview of all the goodies that you will get for participating and helping us break in the forums. So what are you waiting for...go check it out.

Read all about it here: http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/forum/showthread.php?t=99

The Santa Hat

Papa Liam? Liam loved wearing this Santa hat. He wore it long after Christmas was over.Christmas Flannel page set, by Roberta D’Achille, RenderedMemorieshttp://renderedmemories.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=168Font: Txt Menu ItemLaunchpad (sketch) by Bree Clarkson, of DigiScrapDivas. Thanks Bree!

Christmas Is

Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year as far as Kaylie is concerned. She loves decorating the house and putting up the garland. She is especially fond of the garland as a personal accessory. For her fashion show, she modeled it as a hat, a necklace, a bracelet and earrings. 11-30-2005Holly Jolly Collaboration kit by the designers of TheDigiChickhttp://www.thedigichick.com/boutique/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=1185Layered sketch by Christine Smith. Thanks Christine!Font: Text Menu Item

Golf Coast Box Turtle

Educational layout featuring Liam's encounter with the Box Turtle at the park. See page one here: http://www.digishoptalk.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=44109&cat=500&ppuser=389Turtles vary widely in size, although marine turtles tend to be relatively big animals, while freshwater turtles are smaller. The upper shell of the turtle is called the carapace. The lower shell that encases the belly is called the plastron. The carapace and plastron are joined together on the turtle's sides by bony structures called bridges. The inner layer of a turtle's shell is made up of about 60 bones that includes portions of the backbone and the ribs, meaning the turtle cannot crawl out of its shell. In most turtles, the outer layer of the shell is covered by horny scales called scutes that are part of its outer skin, or epidermis. Scutes are made up of a fibrous protein called keratin that also makes up the scales of other reptiles. These scutes overlap the seams between the shell bones and add strength to the shell. Some turtles do not have horny scutes. For example, the leatherback sea turtle and the soft-shelled turtles have shells covered with leathery skin instead.Lizzie page set, by Roberta D’Achille, Rendered Memorieshttp://renderedmemories.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=173Quick Clik layered sketch by Alma Townsend, TheScrapHabitInked edge overlay and stamped alpha from Robyn England’s War kit

A New Friend

While hanging out at the playground, I saw this little turtle hiding in the grass. It was such a cool experience for Liam to be able to see up-close a real turtle. He even got a chance to touch its shell. Lizzie page set, by Roberta D’Achille, Rendered Memorieshttp://renderedmemories.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=173Designer Photoshop Action – Ribbon Creator– Roberta D’Achillehttp://renderedmemories.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=125Hand-Stamped Antique Alpha by Meredith Fenwick, SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17010&cat=0&page=1Sketch by Becky Fleck.Inked edge overlay by Christine Smith, TheDigiChickFont: Lucida Sans Unicode, Marker Felt Wide

Slipping Away

Deep in my heart I'm concealing things that I'm longing to say. Scared to confess what I'm feeling - - frightened that you’ll SLIP AWAY.Kaylie, it seems like yesterday that you were born and here you are about to turn 6 years old. Where did my little girl go? I feel you slipping away from me every day and I don’t like it. Someone, tell me, how to stop the hands of time. Can’t I keep you small just a bit longer? Please... 11-18-2006Weathered Treasures page set, by Maya, Scrapbook-Graphicshttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16297&cat=0&page=1Note: The writing on top of the picture is meant to symbolize the inevitable fact of growing up; it is written since the day we are born. Fonts: Jane Austen and Antique TypeSketch by Rachael Giallongo, TheDigiChick

Cool Dude

Liam was on his way to school yesterday when he spotted his winter hat. Mind you that the temperate was very mild and did not warrant wearing a hat. However, it did match the outfit he was wearing so I let him wear it. It made him happy, he wasn’t hurting anyone by wearing it and he thought he was the coolest bean (dude) in town. 11-16-2006Cool Beans kit by Maya at Scrapbook-Graphicshttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16259&cat=0&page=1Action – Alpha Quick, by Terry Maruca at SBBhttp://scrapbookbytes.com/store/product.php?productid=20067&cat=0&page=4Quick Clic template by Alma Townsend at SBEFont: Arial Rounded and Arial Black (title)

Abuelita's Boy

Liam and Abuelita (granny) out for a walk at Smithville Lake. Liam was super excited to share with her his stomping grounds. He didn’t even mind posing for photos. 11-02-2005Zany kit by Maya, from Scrapbook-Graphics.http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16997&cat=0&page=1-Template by Kim Smith (Vkimmy).-Black and White action from Roberta's Favorite -Photo Fx actions at Rendered Memories.-Font: Verdana, Trajan Pro-Note: Eyebrows drawn by me.Inked edge(recolored) by nancie Rowe Janitz, SA

Confessions

Layout done for a scrap-therapy challenge going on at Scrapbook Graphics about the reasons a person is amazing or special. This is my take:Me, a special or amazing woman? I hardly think so. I am a daughter, a sister, a wife, a mother and child of God. I struggle every day with my flaws. I could stand improvements in all facets of my life. I am highly critical of myself, more so than anyone else could be. I strive to excel in everything that I do, but am easily hurt when I fail miserably. As a child I struggled because of my shyness and insecurities, which carried through adulthood. If you look at me, you might think me unapproachable; however, if you talk to me, you will find me to be a likeable person and a loyal friend. If someone were to ask me what is amazing about me, I would answer: 1) My marriage; I have been married since age 15, 24 years and going strong. 2) My 20 years of struggle with infertility and miscarriages. 3) The beginning of my journey to motherhood through adoption. 4) The birth of my most unexpected son, Liam. I AM special because I KNOW that I make a difference in my children’s lives. I might also add that I am a work in progress as I try to evolve into the very best person I can be. I hope that my children always know that they are the very best part of me and that I feel most blessed for having a special place in their lives. November 15, 2006 Every Day Wonder page set, by Doris Castle, Scrapbook-Graphicshttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17055&cat=0&page=1Template by Jennifer Woodbury. Thanks Jen!!!

Comfort and Joy

During stressful times, I visit the lake to clear my mind. The beautiful scenery is inspiring and makes me thankful to be alive. The familiar path that I have walked countless times offers comfort and grounds me. My journey in life is sometimes daunting but having my children with me gives me solace and a constant source of unbridled joy. Nov. 6/7, 2006-Gathering Heart collaboration kit, by Doris Castle, et. als., at ScrapArtist.-Layered sketch, Simply Sketches-set2, by Gina Miller, GinaMillerDesigns.-Font: Txt Annesia, Txt Menu Item-Captivate Alpha by Rachel Dickson, at Scrapdish.

Picking the Perfect Pumpkin

Even though Daddy had already bough the kids their pumpkin, I took the kids to a roadside farm in Mansfield where they had quite a few varieties for sale. They each picked a small pumpkin and a jar of honey. They were so thrilled they even posed for pictures willingly. 10-16-2006.Credits: Even though Daddy had already bough the kids their pumpkin, I took the kids to a roadside farm in Mansfield where they had quite a few varieties for sale. They each picked a small pumpkin and a jar of honey. They were so thrilled they even posed for pictures willingly. 10-16-2006.Fabulous Fall page set, by Debbie Pearson, Scrapbookgraphics/Classique Designshttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17050&cat=0&page=1-Sepia action on photo from Roberta’s Favorite Photo Fx, by Roberta DAchille, Rendered Memorieshttp://renderedmemories.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=164Note: I ran the sepia action and the did selective coloring to just keep the pumpkins in color.-Font: Due Date and Typical Writer-Inked edges on the elements done with an action by Atomic Cupcake-Inked edge around the page by Nancie Rowe Janitz, ScrapArtist-Layered sketch by Becky Troxel. -Journaling strips by Katie Pertiet, DesignerDigitals

First Day of Pre-Kinder

-Old School page set, by Ronna Penner, Scrapbook-Graphics: http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16758&cat=0&page=2circle, checkmark and crayon paintstroke: Elementary My Dear: The Crayon Box, by Julie Mead, E-scapeandscrap.http://www.e-scapeandscrap.net/boutique/index.php?main_page=product_info&manufacturers_id=1&products_id=296Date stamp underneath photo: -Digital Date Stamps Vol. 5, Katie Pertiet, DesignerDigitalshttp://www.designerdigitals.com/ecom/product_info.php?products_id=994-Staple by Terry Maruca.-Layered sketch by Jennifer Woodbury, from the November DST subscriber newsltr. (Thanks Jennifer!!!)-Font: AL Chalk, Century Gothic, LD Delightful

Pig Tails

I have always loved Kaylie’s curly hair. Ever since she was born, it has been super curly. I remember my mom making the cutest pig tails on my sister’s hair so I couldn’t wait for a girl of my own to make them. Unfortunately, Kaylie’s pig tails become a huge fluffy mass of curly hair that resemble clouds. But that doesn’t deter me from the task. I so admire her brown-golden curls...maybe because my hair is so straight. July 15, 2002 Credits: Vintage Holiday, by Terry Maruca, Scrapbook-ElementsTerry’s Vintage Holiday (available Sun, Nov. 12 at SBE)Note: The Swirl flower and torn edges are part of the template, which I customized with background papers from the kit.Layered sketch by emnewberry1964 - Liz Newberry. (Thanks Liz!)Pig text path and curly tail by me; done with a shape I downloaded from the internet.Font: Scrap Calligraphy, Arial Narrow

Smile

Liam was having a great time playing in the new playground at Smith’s Woods. He had a huge smile on his face.smile / A noun / 1 smile, smiling, grin, grinningA facial expression characterized by turning up the corners of the mouth; usually shows pleasure or amusement •Vintage Holiday, by Terry Maruca, Scrapbook-ElementsTerry’s Vintage Holiday (available Sun, Nov. 12 at SBE)Layered sketch by Nikki Beaudreau, at TheDigiChick (Thanks Nikki!)Sepia action on photo done with an action from Roberta D’Achille’s Favorite Photo FX actions, at Rendered Memorieshttp://renderedmemories.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=164Note: I ran a sepia action and then used a clipping mask for selective coloring.Ribbon done with a Designer Photoshop Action – Ribbon Maker, by Roberta D’Achille, Rendered Memories.http://renderedmemories.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=125Font: Arial, Century Gothic

Autumn Is In The Air

This is layout done for studio challenge 16, a “scraplift” of Debbie Pearson’s layout entitled, “Enjoying Life,” which can be seen at Scrapbook-graphics: http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=1683&cat=558A walk to Smithville Lake today yielded this beautiful sight. The sky was a dark blue and the clouds resembled a cotton field across the sky. The sun was shining against the red-orange brick facade of this old building casting a glow upon the water. Its beauty thrilled and captivated me. Venice page set, by Debbie Pearson, SBGhttp://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16846&cat=0&page=3Floral border (which I customized and recolored) is from Ornamental – No. 2 by Sausan at SBG.http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/product.php?productid=17021&cat=0&page=1Wood Textured Brush by Nancie Rowe Janitz at ScrapartistFont: Arial, Serifa BTCurved ribbon corner from Kay Eflin’s Frienship Meadows kit at E-scapeandscrap.

Christmas Haute Couture

Kaylie and I were taking out the decorations from the garage to decorate the house. She found the garland, which she immediately wrapped around her neck She had a lot of fun pretending that the garland was a feather boa. I think she looks fabulous! 11-30-2005*Kit: Share In The Season, by Sara Carling, Scrapbook-Graphics.Share in the Season isn't just a kit. It's an opportunity to adopt a deserving family this holiday season. Steph & Scott's son Asher was diagnosed with with a brain tumor in May of this year. Since then their lives have been turned upside down as they help their son fight the cancer. Asher has been amazingly strong & resilient through all of this, and their story is one that can inspire us all. Asher also has two adorable younger sisters; Alexa who is 2; and Aubree who is 6 months old. All proceeds from this kit will go directly to Asher & his family to help them have a brighter holiday season. You can read more about Asher's story here.http://www.asherbenjamin.net/* Brush and Style – Garland -Photoshop, by Terry Maruca, Scrapbook-Byteshttp://scrapbookbytes.com/store/product.php?productid=20106&cat=0&page=2Note: The garland looks dull on this preview, but it is sparkly and shiny on the original version.*Designer Photoshop Action – Button Maker – Roberta D’Achilles, Rendered Memorieshttp://renderedmemories.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=126Font: TXT Menu Item and Embossing Tape (Title)Sketch by Becky Fleck.

Posted 10 Layouts!

Oh My Goodness, I can't believe how neglected my blog is. Can you believe I just posted 10 layouts/cards? And I still have 12 more to upload. Time seems to get away from me. I will come back later, if not tomorrow, and finish uploading them.

Dear Son, I Will Miss You When You Are Grown

I just did a Dear Daughter, I Will Miss You When You Are Grown, so I couldn't not do one of my son, too. See layout, store links and information here: http://www.digishoptalk.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=38991&cat=500&ppuser=389

Dear Daughter, I Will Miss You When You Grow Up

I just love this picture of dd. She looks totally adorable. See layout, links and details here: http://www.digishoptalk.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=38990&cat=500&ppuser=389

Pumpkin Lover

Liam can be so quirky at times. We bought these small pumpkins, which he absolutely loved. He was playing with them on the couch, while watching tv. I noticed that he hid them under his blanket. When I asked him why they were there he told me that he was cold and didn’t want the pumpkins getting cold, too. What can I say, I can’t fight his logic and besides, he loves those pumpkins! 10-17-2006. See layout, links and product information here: http://www.digishoptalk.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=38039&cat=500&ppuser=389

Picture Perfect Love

Liam and Great Grandma Sabina were sitting on the couch watching cartoons. Great-grandma is 92 years old and rueing the day that she had to leave. She will miss the kids immensely. See layout, product information and links here: http://www.digishoptalk.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=38000&cat=500&ppuser=389

Imagination - Creative

I did a challenge at ScrapbookGraphics where we were supposed to do a layout, but weren't supposed to use a picture. Boy, was I challenged on this one. See layout information and link to products I used here: http://www.digishoptalk.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=36738&cat=500&ppuser=389

Happy Birthday Ramona!

Happy Birthday Ramona! Wishing you lots of happiness on your birthday. I used the Cornfed Collection by Jessica Bolton. The colors are simply gorgeous. See layout, credits and link to the store here: http://www.digishoptalk.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=35918&cat=500&ppuser=389

g Hunting - It's a Guy Thing

This is a super cute and very manly kit. For credits and link to the store see here" [URL=http://www.digishoptalk.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=35625&cat=500&ppuser=389]Bug Hunting - It's A Guy Thing[/URL]

Happy Birthday Becky!

Happy Birthday Becky! I iwish many happy returns of the day! I used the Collaborative kit by the Studio girls.http://tinyurl.com/ybmk64Brads are from Maya's Dumpster Diving element pak: http://tinyurl.com/ydtzcnHand Stamped Antique stamps by Meredith Fenwick.http://tinyurl.com/ygfbot

The Beauty of Fall at Smithville Lake

My beloved Smithville Lake, in its full splendorous, Autumn glory.Autumn Time page set, by Mindy Terasawa. Designer Photoshop Action – Fancy Brad Creator, by Roberta D’Achille at Rendered Memorieshttp://renderedmemories.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=128Fonts: Benguiat Bk BT, CK Vegas

B is for Beautiful Butterfly

This summer Kaylie and I discovered our love for insects, namely: butterflies. Everywhere we went, whether the playground, the lake or grandma’s house, we looked for them. Imagine our delight to be able to watch this beautiful specimen. Monarch butterflies rock our world. Cornfed page set, by Jessica Bolton, Scrapbook-Graphics http://tinyurl.com/txuarCornfed Alpha: http://tinyurl.com/y3wh83 Cornfed Elements: http://tinyurl.com/y3sst7Action: Coloring Book for Photoshop, by Terry Maruca, Scrapbook-Bytes: http://tinyurl.com/y3lj5fFont: TK Doodle font, Taran Conyers, SBG: http://tinyurl.com/qy5d6Typodermic, Amazing RulerInked edge around page and alpha done with an action by Atomic Cupcake.Launchpad (sketch) by Bree Clarkson, DSD.Note: You can see the actual photo I took, then the coloring page after I ran the action, and the final result printed on 8 1/2 by 11 paper with the end user coloring it in. This action is so much fun...mom had fun customizing the coloring page on the computer, the kids had fun coloring it and best of all, I can print this page as many times as I want and keeps them busy. Worth every penny spent on it.

Maya is having a sale at Scrapbook-Graphics!!!

Yay! Hurray! Sound the alarm! Maya is having a sale on all her stuff. See the add here: http://www.scrapbookgraphics.com/xcart/manufacturers.php?manufacturerid=1

Don't miss out on purchasing her stuff at 50 percent off.