How Did I End Up Here?

I've Moved!

2008-07-17T10:29:00.000-04:00

You can find me here from now on. Thanks for visiting!

I'm ba-ack!

2008-07-11T08:38:00.003-04:00

I needed two syllables on that one. Because it feels good to be home. I was in Atlanta at an IB conference for 4 days. Our school offers this diploma, and to teach certain higher level math classes you need the 15 hours of training. And next year I am teaching advanced juniors. Should be fun. Went with the department head of my building, the dept. head of the other high school, and the head of math for our district. We had fun together. NO major hassles with travel or anything until the flight home yesterday was delayed due to some pretty big storms. I really needed to get home because yesterday was Jenna's birthday. I was just about crying (OK, I WAS crying) when I heard some flights were being canceled, but in the end we were only delayed a few hours and I got to see my little 6-year-old.

She's 6. Wow. How did that happen? If you have kids you're going to know what I'm talking about here. If not, read on. You'll be bored. But the day of their birthday you think about the birth story. And you talk about the birth story. And others talk about their birth experiences. And you can tell through the telling what an impact having children has on us, both men and women alike. Both of my girls were born within an hour of my arrival at the hospital, so mine involve a lot of panic and watching the medical professionals run around in a tizzy. Good times.

Jenna got a tricked-out Schwinn with matching helmet from her daddy. I just cannot get through to him that she does NOT need the latest, greatest, most expensive bicycle EVERY YEAR. That maybe, and I'm just throwing this out there, she could ride a bike for, say, TWO years. I know, it's revolutionary thinking and I'm making a leap here. But it's his girl, and the new bike is his "thing." And I wouldn't change it for the world. That man loves his girl, I tell you. He took her to a restaurant for them to sing her happy birthday, and he got all choked up.

In Atlanta I couldn't help but think about the last time I visited to attend CHA, I met the ladies from Scrap Muse, and we had an amazing time together. These were all friends that I met through the internet, and they are still my friends now. Leslie, the owner of http://www.scrapmuse.com/ at the time, made it all possible for us. And seeing all of the military personnel in the airport made me think of her struggles with her son right now. If you're the praying sort, please keep Leslie and her son in your prayers. Please. See her blog here. He was wounded and is fighting for his life.

In scrappy news, while I was gone, (of course) this happened. First, my project for the Fancy Pants Blog appeared. It was a super easy frame using their amazing rub-ons. Then the amazing Ms. Klemish mentioned me on her blog post at Two Peas. Thanks, girl! And last, but certainly not least, my name appeared somehow on this list. You need to scroll down a bit to find it, but somehow my name is on the finalist list for the Chatterbox DT. Now I did apply, yes, but do you see those other names? I am seriously OUT OF MY LEAGUE here, folks. But I can't even tell you what it means to make the finalists with the likes of that talent. I don't expect to make the team, but cannot wait to play with the new lines. You can't win if you don't try, right?

OK, off to take care of the million and one things I have left for myself to do when I get home. Can you spell P-R-O-C-R-A-S-T-I-N-A-T-E? Me either.

Peace.

Sunday Randomness

2008-07-06T18:55:00.004-04:00

OK, was that not the best tennis match EVAH? Go Nadal. I was in tears when it was all said and done. I'm cool like that. It makes me wonder why the obsession with tennis. I'm equally obsessed with hockey . . . Red Wing hockey, of course. I always say it's because the two sports are so similar . . . well, maybe not. But I love them both. Tennis, because it's hard. And you are relying on yourself, and only yourself. (Unless you're that Russian woman who kept yelling at her mother from the court. AWKWARD.) I love the mental strategy of tennis. And hockey because it is just good physical fun.

I think I need a twelve-step program . . . for pistachios. I am obsessed. My two thumbnails have been worn to the quick from the near-constant consumption of said goodies. It's not just the taste, and the salt, it's the satisfaction of breaking out one that you had deemed hopeless. No amount of split nails will keep me from these gems. I need help, I tell you.

And thank you, Emily, for turning me onto the Starbucks Doubleshot on Ice. Wow. Not too milky, not too sweet, cold, AND a good buzz. Good stuff, I tell you! A close second is the Sweet Tea from McDonald's. Try one. You won't be sorry. You won't sleep, but you won't be sorry.

LOVING my new phone. It's a Palm Centro. I can type in complete sentences with proper capitalization as well as punctuation. I'm cool like that too. But the best part is you can text WITH smilies and it appears as a chat. OK, it's not the IPhone, but what is?

For the fireworks photos I used the running man, or sports setting on my camera, and my 75-300 lens. I did not use a tripod. Here's what I found out. You need to track the fireworks as they are being launched. If you wait too long to take the picture, you get a series of dots in the picture, very uninteresting. You need to snap the picture just as it lights up to get the full shape of the fireworks. If it is not a particularly bright firework, your shutter speed goes so slowly you shake your camera thinking it's broken. Those are the blurry, bright photos. But in between the dots and the blur you can get some good ones. Trust me. I'm going to experiment with some sparkler (or as Jenna says sprinkler) photos. I'll keep you posted.

OK, enough of my random ramblings.

Happy Independence Day Weekend!

2008-07-05T21:59:00.004-04:00

Hope you're having a good one! A lot of family time, as well as some fireworks, and then to top it all off, TENNIS. Go Venus! What could be better.

Sharing a few photos from last night. We need to finish off our sparklers, but Jen has had a bad day decision-wise. I thought a nap would help, but not so much. We went on a long bike ride this evening to the nature center, hoping she could use up some of her energies. She still managed to make some poor choices.

Looking forward to the Nadal/Federer match tomorrow. I'm rooting for Nadal. What about you?

Have a great weekend and week. I've got another busy one.

Wimbledon Magic

2008-06-30T14:51:00.005-04:00

I'm such a fan, so you know what I am spending my time on right now. It's a hectic next two weeks, and I'd love some creative time, but it's highly unlikely. Especially given the fact that I just finished the last of my June deadlines. Talk about down to the wire!!!!! I'm turning into a slacker, I tell ya.

Here are some pics of my girls from yesterday. Em made it home for a scant 24 hours, and she even suggested I take some pics. Will wonders never cease?

I'd love to sit around and regale you with the minutiae of my life, but there's a tennis match happening, people. Got to go!

The story of a water balloon fight

2008-06-26T08:34:00.002-04:00

She's got swimming lesson hair, that's for certain. Last night while we were playing outside she and her dad decided to have a little battle. Check out my photo blog for more pictures!

Summer vacation, my foot!

2008-06-22T20:23:00.008-04:00

It's been a busy one. Oddly so. So here is a random listing of the last week.

~It was a rather stressful week with the family. My parents are aging, and they both have very different, yet pressing needs. I'm not going to go into details, but it ate up a lot of my emotional energy as well as time the past week. That being said, we are heading down the right track and making progress. Family is everything to me. 'Nuff said.

~Jenna had swimming lessons last week. And it was COLD. No complaints from her though. The girl is a fish. Her class is small, 4 kids, 4 teachers. A lot of individualized attention, for certain.

~Went cropping at my LSS. I went with the fabulous Sarah Klemish as well as my sister-in-law. We've been meaning to get together for some time. Finally it worked out. Miss Sarah conveniently neglected to tell us, however, that our local newspaper was coming in to interview and take pictures for an article for our paper about scrapbooking. She is a very sweet and humble individual who did not want the article to be just about her. It's a good thing she's so sweet, it makes it impossible to get mad at her! LOL! Got quite a few pages done that day, and haven't had time to scan or upload them all. Here are two I did for Sassafras Lass.

~Went to Saginaw Zoo. We love hanging there. Buy a yearly pass. It's close, it's very doable in a short period of time, and it's fun. Jenna just adores animals.

~Also took a trip to Frankenmuth. It's such a cool place to visit as well, but the construction we ran into along the way was BEYOND frustrating. There was a big pile up three cars behind me on I-75. There was a detour, and we were routed onto 675. Seems like an easy enough endeavor, and yet there was CONSTRUCTION on 675, with only one lane open. It was difficult hitting those breaks in time, and even once I did I was nervously looking behind me to see if others would be so lucky. Some were not. Won't be traveling south again any time soon. We did catch a little art fair and some German entertainment.

~Hit the Greek Festival as well. One of my best friends in high school was Greek, and we would go with her every year. The food is AMAZING. Dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) are my all-time favorite, closely followed by tiropitas.

~Taught Photoshop Elements, and had 7 students. That is a good number! I so enjoy the people I meet in these classes.

~Emily went to Chicago for the weekend. Wend to visit the American Doll store for a bday present for JJbeans. Can't wait to hear how much fun she had. I love Chicago!

~Speaking of American Girl Dolls, Jenna asked if she could take Jess to Dow Gardens this a.m. So off we went. No major mishaps, except Jess lost her sunglasses. One minor hissy-fit later (Jenna, not Jess) and we retraced our steps and found them.

~One of my former students came over this evening for help with his college math. We worked on solving systems of inequalities using the Simplex method. I studied all afternoon so I knew enough to teach him. Nothing says fun like math in the summer! LOL! Seriously, we both decided that there was something oddly rewarding about working hard at a math problem and finally getting it. There were a few times when we would compare answers and his was right, mine wrong. The student becoming the teacher. What could be better?

~Took a few senior pics of my niece. (See post below.) Learned some things along the way, of course. I need to start noting the little mistakes I make so I don't forget them. Maybe when some time magically appears for me.

Hoping for a less stressful week. Hope you have a great one as well!

Hayley - Senior Pics, Round 1. DING!

2008-06-20T22:42:00.004-04:00

Head on over to my photo blog to see some of the pics I snapped tonight. Hope you like them, Hayley! You know I'll be taking a million more!

Free at last.

2008-06-16T19:31:00.009-04:00

This is the first Monday of freedom, and I'm loving it. By 10:00 a.m. I had done two loads of laundry, emptied the dishwasher, completed a layout and started on another, made a run to the post office and to Rite Aid to pick up my allergy meds, and dropped off Jenna at swim lessons. During her lesson I took my walk, and listened to my IPod. Sheer joy, I tell you!

It's funny that summer vacation is such an adjustment for me. While it's exactly what I look forward to, there is this weird time where I wonder, how can I fill a whole day? It passes, as long as I stay busy. So that's what I'll do for a while.

Finished a new book today. It's called But Inside I'm Screaming. It was OK . . . kind of a downer. I guess it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that out given the title. What was I thinking? Need a new read. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

I've finished 5 of the 9 scrappy assignments for June. I only have about an hour of creative energy a day right now (as luck would have it), so I'm scrapping like a madwoman for that hour and then walking away. I've learned you can't turn creativity on when it fits in your timeframe. Wish it would though!

Had a great father's day. Em came home and got Bill a golf pullover that says Michigan State. Jenna got him a beanie baby, and made a dish at school for coins and such. She also decorated a hammer for him at daycare. She wrote him a letter that had us all stumped. It said, "Dear Daddy, I do not want to go to college. I do not want to go to school I do not want to grow up." Um, OK. What is this all about? When Bill asked she said, "I don't ever want to leave you, daddy!" How freaking sweet is that?

It almost made up for her temper tantrum that got her sent to her room at 7:00 to bed with no TV. She tried to get on her bike WITHOUT her helmet. When I called her on it, she threw her bike down in a fit of rage. When I said, "that's it, we're going inside," she proceeded to tell me what a "mean mommy" I am. Well, that didn't work out so hot for her, now did it? You'd think I committed a heinous crime when I told her she was done for the night. After plenty of begging and pleading for "a second chance" it was off to bed for Trixie. Bill and I both felt we needed to make a point of putting the smackdown on her behavior right away for the summer. And that we did. She has been so much better today. The issue is to nap or not to nap. We've been so besy for the past 4 days, she hasn't napped at all. I think this is going to be an issue . . . she still needs her naps, but when do you wean them off of them, knowing she will be in all-day school next year? I consulted my "Parenting for Idiots" manual, and so far no answers.

Our town does a festival every June and one of the attractions this year was this aerial act. She did ballet in the air, as two people held the ropes so she didn't float away. Now THAT is trust, don't ya know. They were called conedancers. It reminded me that some cool things are available in my little town.

On a very serious note, my friend Leslie is going through quite a trial right now. Her son, Kevin, was hit by a suicide bomber in Afganistan. He is in a coma fighting for his life in Texas right now. You can follow the story on Leslie's blog. I read it with such a heavy heart. Les was the first person to hire me for her design team at Scrap Muse, which is a monthly kit club. The friends that I met through that experience mean the world to me, Leslie being the center of it all. You see, you get to know people through scrapbooking. It more than just "pictures and paste." It's telling about you, your family, your hopes and dreams. Heck, I jumped on an airplane and flew alone for the first time 4 years ago to Atlanta to CHA to room and hang out with people from Scrap Muse that I had never met in real life. And yet, the minute I walked into the restaurant to meet them, it was as if we had been friends our whole lives. Now one of these friends is going through a real struggle. Please, if you're the praying type, keep Leslie and her son in your prayers.

I'm out for now.

Almost There!

2008-06-09T18:55:00.004-04:00

To the end of the school year, that is. Two more days of exams, and one workday. Then sweet, sweet summer. Nothing much earth-shattering going on, but here are a few tidbits from the last week.

Finished the book Home to Holly Springs by Jan Karon. I've read the entire Mitford series, but this one was by far the best. LOVED it. It provided some background information on the main character of the series, and also dealt with getting older. That has tended to be the theme of that last few books that I've read. What do you think THAT means? LOL.

Went to the art fair this weekend. Spend time checking out all of the photographers' booths. It was HOT, but we spent time sitting in the shade checking out some artists working.

Air conditioner puked on Friday. After being in school with no air all day in 90+ degrees I was so looking forward to some relief when I got home. Not so much. No air, and no end in sight. They are ordering a new compressor, and hopefully that will do it. It won't be in until the end of the week though.

Went to a Loons game yesterday. It went from rain to a full-on monsoon during the game, so in 3 hours we saw 2 innings. Jenna was at the park at a birthday party and when the storm hit I was in a bit of a panic wondering where she was. Motherly worry. Good times. It was a school gathering and we had fun. Too bad the weather didn't cooperate!

Jenna had her last soccer game on Saturday. She's had so much fun this season. She was bummed she didn't get another goal, but she did a great job. It was SO HOT, and she got tired quickly. She hung in there though.

Had my last photography class. It was such a great kick start to get back into (and loving) photography. It was just what the doctor ordered.

In scrappy land, nothing new. I have a bunch of deadlines for June (9), and haven't started a one. I am convinced I have forgotten how to scrap, it's been so dang long.

Jenna's school was closed today due to a power outage. BIG storms last night. What a mess! I went to drop her off for before-school care, and the supervisors weren't sure what was going on. Only that there was no power. I wasn't comfortable leaving Jenna, so I took her with me into school. I had exams to give so I called Bill and had him come to the school to pick her up. As Bill was on his way to get her, the daycare people called and said they were setting up generators and school would be in session. So Bill took her back to school, knowing she'd be disappointed if she missed her end of the year party which was today. So back to school he took her. About an hour later the daycare ladies called again to say school had officially been canceled. ARGH! So in between exams I picked her up and drove 20 minutes each way to drop her off at daycare. Our district really dropped the ball on this one.

Nothing else new. Have a great week!

Happy June

2008-06-01T17:07:00.005-04:00

FINALLY it's June. It has been so cold in Michigan this spring, and the temperatures would lead one to believe it is April. There was FROST last week. And after the brutal winter, we need warmth. My problem is I don't tell time by the calendar, I tell it by the weather. So this perpetual state of April is doing quite the number on my head. But the calendar says June. And June means that school will be out soon. NO. I am not out of school yet, like the rest of the world. We have two more weeks. Good times.

Busy weekend, as usual. Yesterday was coffee at mom's, a soccer game, laundry and housework, then out to eat with friends. Today was coffee at mom's again since Em came home for the day, grocery shopping, making a salad (which was delicious) for a steak dinner at one of Bill's shooting clubs, off to a graduation party, then to the steak fry. Absolutely no down time. This is becoming a habit.

Jenna scored TWO goals at her soccer game. I am so impressed with her coaches and this team and how much they have all learned while having fun. She was so excited to score, and hasn't had many opportunities because she's been playing defense in every other game. She was so thrilled, and Bill and I were so proud.

I'm off to celebrate the anniversary at Scrap Supply. There are some cool things going on today, including Bingo with Ali Edwards. Check it out if you get a chance!

Oh, and I had a page picked up for the November/December issue of Memory Makers magazine. I rarely get a chance to submit, so it's a good thing when something gets picked up. Now I need to fill out all of the paperwork to send it off.

Have a great week.

Some new pictures

2008-05-25T19:04:00.002-04:00

Head on over to my photo blog for some new pics for class. Used the Orton effect on this one. Hope you enjoy!

Let the weekend begin.

2008-05-23T22:46:00.004-04:00

Seriously. This was one long week. Today was an emotional roller coaster, with our staff honoring the retiring staff members. I am AWFUL with goodbyes. I mean seriously messed up. We are losing some fine educators. People who have spent a lifetime making a difference in the life of kids. Now tell me that doesn't choke you up. And as much as I am happy for the people who are retiring, you could see with each and every one of them that they weren't done making a difference. That's what hurts. Cried all morning. And that feeling of sadness stayed with me all day, which is rare.

On to better news, I finished my article for the Scrap Supply newsletter. Layouts? Check. Article? Check. Relief? Check. Check. It is such a feeling of accomplishment when I'm done with deadlines. And I'm proud of this article. You really need to stop by SS on June 1 for some serious fun. They are even giving away a Making Memories Slice. What could be better?

Also went to see our coworker, Mary, and her newborn baby girl. It still just amazes me the miracle of babies. And this one is a beauty. Made me want another one for a minute. Biological clock and all. I'm lucky to have my two girls, and I'm happy. So the feeling passed. Not the miracle part, though.

No big plans this weekend. We're not exactly the type to head out on vacation when everyone else is. We're more the type to go on vaca when everyone else is home. Bill and I both work with people EVERY DAY, and I have no desire to deal with tons of people on my free time. Now I love what I do, don't get me wrong. But sometimes getting away from the crowd is just what the Dr. ordered.

Sharing some pictures of the diva and the makeup transformation by sissy from last weekend. Doesn't she look adorable?

That's Entertainment

2008-05-17T20:46:00.004-04:00

A few pictures from last night at dress rehearsal. Doesn't she look happy in the first? The had the kids line up for the finale first, and the girl would not crack a smile. She looks so happy trapped amongst the flowers, no? Then they went back to their seats and waited for their number. Well let me tell you this girl put on her game face when it was show time. That move in the second picture had Em and I hysterical in today's performance. I was laughing so hard I missed the final few moments from the tears in my eyes. She dances with heart, I tell you! And the last picture is the smile on her face when it was all through. Priceless.

Layouts and more

2008-05-15T19:49:00.005-04:00

Here are three layouts for Fancy Pants Designs for this month. I actually took a personal day today and scrapped for three hours this a.m. I'm a bit stressed for a lot of reasons. I'm edgy and nervous. And there is a lot going on this weekend. YIKES.

Did all the laundry today as it will be too hectic this weekend with dance recitals and rehearsals. Between costume fittings and alterations, painting her BLACK tap shoes TAN, getting the proper lipstick (red), eyeshadow (purple), and blush (pink), none of which I own OF COURSE, the hairspray (ultra-mega-super hold), bobby pins, etc. I am plum worn out. How do the stage moms handle it? She's a leprechaun. Go figure.

Emily and one of her roomies are coming home for the weekend as well. I'm hoping in between the weekend we call DANCE I can get some pictures of the college girls.

I'm doing a photo shoot with some techniques I will share in the June Newsletter at Scrap Supply. Watch for the special anniversary bash, scheduled for June 1st. There will be contests, prizes, and all sorts of fun. I had a blast on NSD with the ladies from SS, especially playing Bingo. Check it out! Another cool twist is that the amazingly talented Ali Edwards. Can you believe it?

Speaking of SS and NSD, I created and shared some PS actions for NSD, and answered Photoshop questions. Well who dropped by but Crystal Jeffrey Rieger, a Memory Makers Master. Check out her blog post where she mentions yours truly. How cool was that?

Let's see what else. On the health-front, things aren't so swell. Turns out my Thyroid levels are all out of whack. I had a feeling because I am SUPER sensitive to cold right now. HATE IT. I get so cold the only thing that will warm me up is a hot shower. Hypothyroidism is a pain in my ever-growing butt. Seriously.

Two of my family members are having health crises of their own right now. I'm not sharing specifics, because both of them are private people, but it is 99% of my stress. We should have answers on both of them tomorrow. In the meantime, if you're the praying type . . .

Got a new lens for my camera. It is the Tamron 28-75 F2.8. If you look at my photo blog you can see a few I snapped tonight.

OK, I'm out. Have a good weekend.

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-11T18:56:00.003-04:00

I know I had a good weekend. It was busy, but fun. Went to mom's for coffee yesterday a.m. Then home to finish my deadlines for Provo Craft. The got Jenna all ready for her soccer game, arrived at the fields, only to find out she didn't have a game after all. That will teach me to check the schedule. As we pulled away from the soccer fields, Jenna said "Mom, I am NOT a happy camper." True dat, my girl. True dat.

Went to the casino with the neighbors last night. And while I'm not exactly a high roller, playing the $0.02 machines and all, not spending more that $20 total, I ended up at $127.00. After paying Bill back the $20 he gave me to gamble, and also paid him the $20 he lost. Then I paid for dinner and the tip at $40. So we ended up with a free dinner and a bit of winnings to boot, without spending a dime. Odds were in my favor, I think.

Grocery shopping today in preparation for the week and a family gathering at mom's for lunch. The whole family was there, including Billy which was a great surprise. He has been moved to days (he is a police officer) so he can now come home some weekends. We had fun together, as always. Emily came home after work last night and left tonight. What would Mother's Day be like without my girls?

Speaking of my girls, this is one of the outtakes from the gardens last week. Priceless.

A few from tonight

2008-05-04T20:46:00.003-04:00

Had a little fun tonight at the Gardens. My girls.

Happy Sunday

2008-05-04T06:49:00.003-04:00

It's amazing to me how quickly time passes in the spring. It catches me unawares every stinking year. Soccer, with dance, school activities, and life in general. It's just kicking my butt right now. And making me long for summer, and a different pace. One that doesn't involve to-do lists that span the length of my arm.

One of the things that I spent the week (and last weekend) working on was my new Advanced Photoshop Elements class. It takes so much time, because I have to decide what I'm teaching, test each topic, write up the steps for a handout, and choose the pictures to go with the class. Then I have to drop the pics off at the store so they can be loaded onto the computers. The class is 6 hours in total, and I only got done with the first class. On Thursday night, after countless hours spent on prepping for the class, the camera shop called to say they didn't get enough people to run it. GOOD TIMES. At least I have more time to prep.

Yesterday I spent a lot of time at Scrap Supply celebrating National Scrapbook Day. What a blast! I have some Photoshop challenges and tutorials, and the other DT members have fun challenges as well. You really have to check it out! We played Bingo til the wee hours last night and it was a blast. I even created a few actions if you have Photoshop, although they won't work in Elements.

Emily is now officially done with her junior year of college. She called yesterday and talked about how she feels like a zombie now that exams are over. I remember that feeling. She's working at a coffee shop (I believe she is called a barista, but she doesn't find the title nearly as charming as I do.) She's taking classes all summer. I just cannot fathom that she's already been away for three years. Yikes. She gets to come home and hang for a few days and I can't wait to see her. It always makes me feel like my family is complete when she's home.

School is busy too. Grades were due this week, and the kids have been absent in droves due to field trips, sporting events, club competitions, etc. So every day after school I had droves of students needing the lesson repeated or to make up the tests they missed. Plus it was prom last night, so they were really wound up in class getting ready for the big weekend. I got so busy at the end of the week I got kind of cranked. That usually doesn't happen. I'm usually really on top of things at school. Somehow with the make-up work it was impossible. Here's hoping for a more relaxing week. Wish me luck.

I've been working hard on my photos for my photography class. I am learning so much about my photo skills and point of view. We are supposed to shoot a series of photos with a theme/story. It turns out I don't really have one. I'm disappointed in how "snapshotty" my photos are. I want photos that look polished, well-composed, and a little artsy to boot. Doesn't seem like too much to ask, IMO. My passion is photos of people. Not just my girls, although that is a good 90% of the passion ... but that's just because they can't say no when I want to take their picture. So I really wanted to take pictures of Jenna for my series. But I did bring pictures in to class last time of other shots I have taken so the teacher could see I'm not just a mom with a camera. (MWAC.) He particularly liked one I had taken of a corn stalk. And literal-minded math teacher w/a smart mouth said, "It's JUST a corn stalk." Nice, Kay. Now let me tell you about this teacher. He is an accomplished photographer who has studied with several famous photographers, and can make even the most mundane things beautiful. You should have seen the look he shot me. So after much deliberation I have decided to make my series "Things Along the Trail." Little things I observe when hanging out at the Nature Center. Maybe focusing on something OTHER than people will push me forward. Here's hoping.

Just finished the book Water for Elephants. It was REALLY good. In fact, it's the best book I've read in a very long time. Now I'm reading The Year of Fog. It is good, but leaves me feeling so sad every time I pick it up. It's about a missing girl and the endless search for her. I think this time of year I need something a bit more uplifting, and a little less heart-heavy. Next time, I guess. I need to keep reading because with every page I'm hopeful that they find her. I'm going to be a wreck if it doesn't happen. That's all I'm sayin'.

The picture is of my girl last week. Hope you have a wonderful week!

A few faves from today

2008-04-27T19:04:00.005-04:00

Here are a few of my faves from today shooting on the train tracks. I've wanted these pictures for a long time, but I wish the weather/light would have been better. Oh well. Baby steps.

Has it been a week already?

2008-04-27T08:07:00.009-04:00

Seriously, time is just a flying right now. Let's see. It was a pretty busy week again, what with dance, soccer practice, soccer game, parent-teacher conferences for J, a trip to the dentist for J, photography class for me, a crop on Friday night, and just life in general. And I wonder why some mornings Jenna wakes up and the first words out of her mouth are "Is today a day off?" Is it wrong that someone so young is already worn out? Probably, sadly, so.

Got three layouts done for Fancy Pants, one for Sassafras Lass, and two projects for ProvoCraft. That means I'm DONE WITH MY DEADLINES FOR APRIL!!!! Can you feel the joy? I'm feeling it. Today's task is to develop my "Advanced Photoshop Elements" class that I'm teaching next weekend. Plus grocery shopping. Plus laundry. Good times.

Em is preparing for her exams for next week, and stressing to the max. Good luck my girl. You're almost there!

OK, off to face the day. Be careful out there!

A tale of the teeth, part III

2008-04-19T22:08:00.003-04:00

Here's the latest. Both top teeth gone. THANKFULLY. The one hanging, dead tooth in a gap of epic proportions was not a good look for Miss J. The funniest part is her permanent teeth are already coming in. She has to work hard not to, but there is no lisp. You can see her struggle to avoid it, and it is so cute! Maybe the whole shark teeth thing wasn't so bad after all.

Soccer game today. It was her first one this season, and the poor thing coughed and snotted her way through. Bill and I talked about the fact that she will most likely not be able to play an outdoor sport due to her allergies. Poor baby. They are so bad in the fall and spring. And unless we decide to go the way of allergy shots, she's just too miserable. She doesn't look too miserable in this picture though. She sure has grown to love this game!

We went to a Rugby game last night. A few of my students asked me to come watch, and I didn't know anything about the game. WOW. Let me just say I was unprepared for the rough nature of the game. And yet, I was impressed with the strength and tenacity my girls showed. I took some pictures, and I'll share them if I get the OK from my students. Bill was impressed, and Jenna was excited to meet my students. I had them in middle school, and now again in high school (they're juniors), and it was an honor to be asked to attend. You learn something new every day!

Off to dinner tonight with the neighbors. Jenna and my niece played with my sister and had a blast. I think Jen was sad to see us come home.

Emily hurt her foot at school this week, and is in a boot. Bad sprain I guess. Plus her allergies are giving her grief. Sorry my girl!

OK, off to edit more pics for my photography class. Peace!

Random Ramblings . . .

2008-04-16T19:23:00.004-04:00

Taking a photo class. It's on shooting a series. Meets every other week, and I love the concept. It's got me out shooting again. YEAH!

Had family birthdays over the weekend. Dad, my BIL, and my sister. It was fun having the family together. Missed Billy.

Funny moment of the day, Jenna was spelling words, names specifically. We asked her to spell Emily. She wrote M - O - L - E. Sound it out. She just may be a genius!

She lost one of her front teeth last night. Don't you just love the result? By the way, her face is wet because we were blowing bubbles and a big one popped in her face. It is not DROOL, Em. LOL!

Parent-teacher conferences last night and again all day. BUSY.

Dance and soccer every week. Can you spell busy?

FINALLY some warm weather. Got up into the 70's. Makes me weep with joy.

Jenna is sick again. Allergies are a bummer. Back to the Dr. but thankfully at this point her ears are good. Wish us luck.

A quick BasicGrey layout to share

2008-04-11T13:15:00.005-04:00

I could not WAIT to play with the new Basic Grey. I am utterly, totally in love. Here's a quick layout about my girl. Sorry it scanned crooked . . . don't know why that always happens to me! Just this week we have been joking at Scrap Supply about hoarding scrap supplies. And there are a few lines that I am obsessive about. BasicGrey being one of them. These lines have to have their own shelves and separate drawers, they are THAT important to me. (Can you spell obsessive?) Hey, I own it. Steph and I have a little contest going on who has the most BG. We're both going to snap a photo (aka admit our problem) and compare the illnesses. Now if I only had more time to play!

Thoughts on Antiques

2008-04-09T18:53:00.011-04:00

So over the weekend we went to Bay City to the antique warehouse looking for fishing poles. Long story. Anyhoo, whenever I am around antiques I feel a strange sense of sorrow. Maybe it's the smell . . . it smells just like my grandparents' homes in Wisconsin. Maybe it's the sense of history. Who did these possessions belong to? What is their story? What gets me the most is the old pictures. That just cuts me to the quick. Wasn't there anyone who cared enough to keep them? Or was it that the story of the people in the pictures was somehow lost in time. Like someone inherited the pics and didn't really know who was in them. Makes me sad, I tell you. When we walked into the store Jenna said, "Mom, there are things in here from generations of people!" True that, my girl. True that.

Guess what, more layouts!

2008-04-05T20:49:00.001-04:00

More from Sassafras Lass. I am in love with this line!

The story of the teeth

2008-04-04T09:01:00.008-04:00

So here's the deal. Last summer year when Jenna went to the dentist they discovered that her bottom two permanent teeth were coming in BEHIND the baby teeth. I remember the moment well. Jenna was laying in the dentist's chair, and they had me come over to look inside her mouth. Being the graceful sort, when I leaned over and saw them, it shocked me so much I stood up quickly, thus slamming my head on the dentist's light. Good times. After being called "shark-girl" with two rows of teeth (kidding . . . sort of), she lost the front two, and her tongue pushed the permanent teeth in place. COOL.

Well, guess what. The same thing has happened to the top two. Went for her cleaning yesterday and guess what is pushing her top two front teeth? Her new teeth are right behind them. It has been SO WEIRD to see the transformation of said teeth. They started moving together (Jenna has always had big spaces between her top teeth), then they started moving out. A la bunny rabbit. The weirdest thing is they're not very loose, because the permanent teeth are wedging them in that space tightly. I was sort of sad when I thought of her losing the top front teeth. Not so sad any more. LOL! No matters, the girl is still beautiful!

Well, the fabulous Dena Coe tagged me with a "You make my day" award. So here are the blogs I look at on a consistent basis that "Make my day."

First is the amazing Shaunte. That girl can make me laugh like no other. She has been posting about her recent mission trip, and come to find out she can make me cry as well. She's beyond talented, and one of the nicest people I know.

Next is the one and only Torm. Torm has the most amazing way with words. And while journaling is her specialty, her photography skills ROCK. I'd love to have an ounce of her talent.

I have always loved Vicki Chrisman. Her work is inspiring, and so is her outlook on life.

Lisa also makes my day. She has such amazing photography skills, and such a positive outlook on life. I smile each and every time I read her blog, and I'm in awe of her mad skills.

This blog is a constant source of information and inspiration. Jessica Sprague is a GENIUS. No two ways about it.

In other random news, spring break is coming to a close. Sad. It's my last official day off. But it gave me a taste for the summer, and I'm ready, baby!

Here's what I accomplished over break.
~a trip to Ikea for shelves and drawers. Assembled, and reorganized scrap space.
~a trip ('cause I'm an idiot) to see Emily.
~a crop at MHS, where I (mostly) completed 5 pages.
~a trip to the Center for the Arts to see the "Grossology" exhibit
~another trip to the butterfly house
~organized my closet, burning . . . er, putting away the winter clothes.
~redid Jenna's room, moving furniture, cleaning closet, purging old stuff.
~took some pictures, some that I even like!
~signed up for a photography class.
~took Jenna to a pool at the local community college, and she had a blast!

All in all, I got some things accomplished. Still, would have given anything to be in Disney. Next year, baby.

Peace out!

More layouts - Scrap Supply April

2008-04-03T18:11:00.002-04:00

My article this month was on black and white photos. Read the newsletter here.

More Layouts ~ Fancy Pants

2008-04-02T21:13:00.004-04:00

A few layouts

2008-04-02T07:12:00.002-04:00

using the new lines from Sassafras Lass. Got them done at the crop on Monday. TFL!

And the "my goodness you're dumb" award goes to . . .

2008-03-31T18:35:00.002-04:00

me. Yep, yours truly. Sometimes I wonder how I survive at'all.

Here's the story. It's spring break, and I'm home. Pouting. And yes, I realize this is not attractive, and I'm horribly shallow. I'm OK with that. They say the first step to solving a problem is recognizing it, right? Anyhoo, decided a little retail therapy via a trip to IKEA may just help. Couldn't hurt, right? Went with my sister Beth, and met Emily there. Perfect, since Em needs her rent check for college, and I can just deliver it to her that way.

Got some doors (4) and drawers (4) for my Expedit bookshelves. Also bought some more frames so I can finish my photo wall. A few more odds and ends, and we're ready to go. Packing it in the car is always a little difficult, especially with my shopping cohorts. But Em drove herself this time so I could actually see out of my rearview window. SWEET. We went to Chili's for lunch, gave Em a hug and "I love you" and we're on our merry way.

Then Em calls me on the way home, and says, "Mom, you forgot to give me the check." DUH. Um, that's one of the reasons we went to IKEA in the first place. But no worries, she's behind us on the expressway, and we'll just pull off at the next exit and make the financial transaction. Off we go, pull over, and I take out my checkbook. NO BLANK CHECKS. None. Nada. Zip. Zilch. Wait, there's one I wrote incorrectly. Could I fake it? Let's just say my forgery skills are weak and it didn't work.

Em said she'd drive home the next morning to pick up the check. She wasn't even mad at me, (probably because she's immune to my idiocy.) Of course the mom guilt got the best of me, so I told her I'd drive down in the morning to deliver it. So up early Sunday morning, getting ready to go out the door, and realize I haven't refilled the checkbook. Go into the cupboard to find said checks, and NOTHING. I have no more checks. You see, I don't write many checks. A box can last me a good 6 months or more. I pay all bills online. Now what?

I had a few used check packs in the box WHERE THE NEW CHECKS SHOULD BE and luckily I can't count and had one blank check. (Cue the sound of angels singing, that's how happy I was.)

The good news was I got to see my girl again. I took Jenna and she was happy because she knew I had seen sissy the day before and was jealous. It all worked out in the end. I still get the award, I know.

BTW, putting together the shelves and drawers took me 6 hours. Yep, that's right. A few minor flesh wounds and pounded thumbs later, they were all done. It looks so much better now that my junk isn't quite so visable. I also got lamps for the room. It is now 99% done. The last step is for Bill to add the moulding, and voila. Done.

Went to school to scrap all day today. Felt good to scrap just for me.

I got tagged by my scrap idol, Dena, and I will be tagging people tomorrow.

Enjoy your Monday!

Fun Weekend

2008-03-24T05:31:00.006-04:00

Well I had a wonderful weekend! It was filled with family, and that's what matters most to me. Went to the parent's yesterday, and got some good family shots. Hopefully I'll have time to post soon. The Easter bunny did make a stop at our house, and hid the basket in the OVEN. Jenna just couldn't get over it, and told the story over and over. There was no hiding the eggs outdoors as it SNOWED yesterday. UGH. Have I mentioned how much I loathe the cold weather? I have? Really?
On Saturday we visited the Butterfly Exhibit at Dow Gardens. It was SO COLD outside, then you go inside the exhibit and it's tropically warm. I think it took 25 minutes before my camera lens would defog. It was all about who could get the butterfly between Jenna and Emily. They both had success! I want to go back and just spend two hours watching and taking pictures. It's such a glimpse of warm weather and gorgeous color of butterflies and flowers. LOVED IT. There is a separate room with orchids. They are such cool flowers! I'll try to remember to post more on the photography blog.
We also went to an Easter Egg Hunt at my school Saturday morning. There were so many eggs Jenna filled her basket in about 5 minutes, which was good because it was so cold I wanted her back inside quickly with her ear infection. Emily got the eggs out of trees, as I think those were left for the older kids. LOL! It's such a fun event. We're lucky my friend Jen organizes it every year. It's a ton of work!

Got my scrappy deadlines done (or almost completely done) which is a huge relief. Maybe, just maybe, I'll find some time to scrap for myself. Doubtful . . .

Allergies?

2008-03-17T13:13:00.005-04:00

I think that's what it is, but Miss J. has a seriously bad cough going on. Poor baby. My guess is allergies because every single year around spring break the girl gets sick. I guess this year is no exception. So here I am, bored at home. We've been snuggling on the couch all a.m., and I've been reading the book Runner for the staff version of "Battle of the Books." It was really good, but now that Jenna is napping, I'm back to bored.

Went shooting yesterday around town. I was inspired (yet again) by the fabulous Torm and this post on her blog. It was SUCH a grey, dreary day. (Big shocker for Michigan, I know.) But it was FABULOUS to be outside, walking around. It was about 35 degrees and felt warm. Sad? You betcha. The Native American is from a painting on the courthouse.
I'll post more later.

Just received a box-o-goodies from Sassafras Lass which are calling my name. A few more deadlines, and it's time to PLAY!

Have a great week. And if you have any ideas for allergies, let me know!

Feeling a bit under the weather . . .

2008-03-09T16:54:00.007-04:00

Got a bug this week. It was a cold with a fever, and it has wiped me OUT. I've been so fortunate this winter, and have avoided much of the sickness that has been going around. Not so this time. So I stayed home Thursday and Friday and did NOTHING. And I do mean NOTHING. Wow, it's scary how lazy I was. It seems like a good thing, R&R, but frankly I was just B-O-R-E-D. Read a little, took a nap. Had a snack, took a nap. Watched some TV, took a nap. Getting the picture?

Did I mention a lot of TV? I swear, daytime TV is incentive to work outside of the home. There is absolutely nothing on in the daytime. I did catch up on "Gone Country," and who knows why I like that particular show, but I do. Also, watched the "America's Next Top Model" marathon. Seriously, I think my IQ dropped a few points. But my all-time fave show right now is Project Runway. Got to see a few episodes in between naps.

Took Miss J to the carnival Friday night. She has been SO excited, and Bill offered to take her so I could rest some more. The guilt of missing her first school carnival got to me and off I went. Looking FABULOUS, don't cha know. Of course I ran into a ton of people that I know, as luck would have it. The weirdest thing was how many people (including myself) went to this elementary school, and now we're all sending our kids there.

Speaking of J, do you like the fake smile in the picture? Can't you just see the frustration in her face? "Take the dang picture mom!" Her front tooth is so loose, it's hanging off to the side, making the gap even larger than it was before. It looks so dang funny! I was dreading her losing said tooth, but now that it's all lopsided it can drop out any time. LOL!

Emily made it home from Spring Break. She was by Charleston, SC, and had to drive home yesterday. Her route was through OHIO, and Bill detoured her through Indiana. It added some time to their trip, but thankfully they made it home through minimal weather conditions. (Welcome home, my girl!)

Taught Photoshop Elements yesterday. I felt a bit better and thought I would be fine, but about 5 minutes into the class I got a coughing attack. You know the type . . . eyes watering, trying to clear the gunk in your throat, gasping for air, while these poor, unsuspecting people are waiting for me to get a grip. The cough drop didn't help, so I resorted to chugging my coffee in an effort to breathe. Once "the episode" passed, my voice was gone. With three hours of class to go. GOOD TIMES. Thankfully it came back, I got my bearings, and everything worked out. Of course the minute I got home I took a monster nap. Near death experiences wear you out, I'm telling you!

Went to a dinner last night with Bill's shooting club. About 10 minutes into the meal my ears got completely plugged, and I ceased hearing. Between not being able to hear, the coughing, and the sneezing fits, well, I'm sure I was the life of the party. As soon as we got home I went to bed. Are you noticing a theme here?

Still feeling bad today. Hoping for a reprieve this week. This busy, crazy week. Wish me luck!

A normal March day in Michigan

2008-03-02T15:59:00.004-05:00

consists of snow and grey skies. UGH. But it was rather warm, so off we went to City Forest. First, we went skating.

Then trudged up the hill to go tobogganing. Both Bill and I remember the winters of our youth, when the lines to go down the run were endless. There were very few people there today. Sad, really. It's a cheap day of entertainment, with skate rentals $2 for 2 hours, and the toboggan was $4 for 2 hours. Jenna wants me to go down the hill next time. Yeah, right.

Then into the warming house for hot chocolate.

Scrappy News!

2008-02-29T20:15:00.002-05:00

First, check out the March Newsletter at Scrap Supply. It rocks! There are so many inspiring ideas, you will NOT be disappointed.

Also, found out today I had two pages picked up for the Memory Makers Idea Gallery '08. It's been so long since I've submitted anything, and I found out about the call on Tuesday. Since Jenna was home sick I had a chance to send in some layouts. It's fun to get back in the game! One layout is of Jenna, one of Emily. How cool is that?

My goal for the weekend is to get a few scrappy projects done. It's been a while. Wish me luck!

Music Anyone?

2008-02-27T05:32:00.001-05:00

My request got buried on one of the other posts, but I'm on the lookout for some new music. Someone pointed out this on 2P's. Some old school Phil Collins with a twist. Love it!

My Scrap Space

2008-02-26T12:57:00.009-05:00

Here it is. I decided to work with a template and use photos of the formal living room which I have been making over into a more usable room. It is attached to the formal dining room (which we don't use AT ALL) so that picture is included as well.

What I love? The word art I made using the Cricut Expression and the vinyl. My IKEA bookshelves (3). My funky chair and my RED COUCH! I also love the personal touches in the room. My sister made me the Sudoku quilt, my brother made me a tiered shelf, and my brother-in-law stained that shelf.

It has come such a long way from where I started (see the little pictures for an idea of where I started.) Notice the hideous light fixture in the dining room? Just replaced it and it's ugly counterparts throughout the house. Put them out to the road and no takers. Go figure!

Next steps are to:

Add crown moulding (is that the correct spelling?)
New lamps (seriously, they are ugly)
Window treatment
Finish photo wall
Add something to the tiered shelf (which is empty right now.)

So much to be done, so little time. (Or is it energy?)

Pictures

2008-02-26T12:11:00.005-05:00

So my goal about a year ago (OK, maybe it was last summer), was to display some of the photos I have been taking in my house. Finally, I have bitten the bullet and put them up, even given my phobia of nails in walls. I'm serious, I have a real problem with hanging things on walls. It's too much of a commitment for me, I guess. The result is I have a bunch of rooms that look unfinished. Good times.

So in my family room I propped up photos of my girls and their cousins. (No, I did not mount them to the wall. Shocker, no?) I also added a random photo arrangement behind the couch in the family room. I'm not sure I love the effect, and actually had to leave the house for Bill to hang them. (Is there a self-help book you could recommend?)

In my used-to-be-a-formal-living-room which is now my scrap area, I hung an arrangement behind my cool red couch. I LOVE my cool red couch. I got the idea to hang the photos with s-hooks from a cutain rod from IKEA. And you know what that meant? Only TWO nail holes. Seriously, that's cool in my book. My sister Beth made me the quilt on the back of the couch. The pattern is called "Sudoku" which are puzzles that I adore. It matches the funky chair also in this room. Next up I'm going to extend the wall adding more pictures on either side. A trip to IKEA to pick up more frames is in the works. I'm liking how this room is turning out, but there is more work to do to finish it off. I'll share pics when I get there. In 5 years.

Big news for me in the works. Will share when it becomes official. Needless to say I'm thrilled.

I'm on the lookout for new music. I am so sick of my ITunes library and need to find some new tunes. Any suggestions?

Have a great week!

Layout Love and ice

2008-02-17T10:20:00.008-05:00

First, here are some layouts from Making Memories. I am in love with the Noteworthy line, and am so excited about the new lines that were out at CHA. I'm saving my pennies as we speak! They are looking for some guest designers on their blog, so I'm throwing my hat in the ring so to speak. Wish me luck!

In other news, well, there's not much news. We had our hallway entry painted, picked out new lights for the entryway, and put the house back in order. I finally bit the bullet and made a photo wall in my family room. It's my goal to use the pictures that I take as decor in my home, rather than have them sit on my computer. So far it's been fun. But it's sort of like a layout . . . once it's done I don't really like it as much as I did in the creation process. Oh well, it's easy enough to take another picture, or make another layout.

We had a full week of school last week, plus I had grad class on Valentine's Day. How ROMANTIC, no? But all is well on the school front. I'm a bit bored because the student teacher is teaching all but one of my classes now. I sit in the back of the room, and wonder what the heck I'm doing there. I've been rendered obsolete! LOL! But she's doing a great job so all is well. The kids accuse me of playing video games in class. They can see I'm bored.

Today, we have ice. At one point it was forecast that we could get 9-12 inches of snow (insert retching noise here), but instead it's ice. And rain. Good times. It's hard to describe the perpetually gray days that exist in Michigan in the winter. It's really painful. I'm bummed because my sister's and I were going to visit Emily and take her out for lunch.

Think spring. I know I am!!!

Week 3 - Snow Day Heaven

2008-02-07T12:33:00.000-05:00

That's right, three weeks in a row with a snow day. It's a dream come true! Went out and played in the snow all morning. It was NASTY yesterday, and we got so much snow we were let out 10 minutes early from school. (Insert furious face here.) But seriously, it was so bad they called it off LAST NIGHT. So I slept in until 7:30. Heaven, I tell you! Especially since I'm prepping for painting tomorrow. I can't wait to get the paining done. This project has been going on since early fall, and we're just getting around to it. Yikes!

Have you seen the February newsletter at Scrap Supply? You need to check it out. It is jam-packed with amazing ideas.

Got a big ol' box of goodies from ProvoCraft at my door yesterday. More Cricut cartridges, and a new product called Cuttlekids. I think Jenna and I will have fun with it! Now, however, I need to rearrange the scrap space to accommodate said goodies. Wish me luck.

Also last week I can home to an unexpected box at the door. It was from KI Memories, and it was the new Idea Planner for 2008 with MY PAGE IN IT! While it wasn't my favorite page from my album, it does showcase my love of coffee. I'm just thrilled to be in it.

More Fancy Pants Goodness

2008-02-06T15:45:00.000-05:00

Here are some more of the projects I did for CHA for Fancy Pants Designs. Hope you like them!

Sharing Some Layouts

2008-02-01T18:39:00.000-05:00

Jodi from Fancy Pants Designs contacted me a few weeks ago to do some freelance work for CHA winter, and how could I say no? I've been a FP fan from way back. So here are a few.

The first layout is called "Smile" and features the "About a Boy" line. Of course I had to use it on a girl. REBEL!

The second layout is called "Be You" using the new line called "Simplicity." Gorgeous colors and textures on this line.

And the third layout is from the "Sweet Spring" line. It's called "Happy." When my girl smiles her whole face lights up, I tell ya!

Hope you enjoyed the preview. More to come!

What? Another one?

2008-01-30T10:53:00.000-05:00

Yep, it happened. Another snow day. The wind was absolutely HOWLING last night. We went from a temp of the high 30's to the single digits, plus a little snow/ice combo, plus some schools losing power. And BINGO, Kay gets another day off. I tell you, it's the ONLY good thing about winter in my neck of the woods.

Jenna is just recovering from RSV, and I'm recovering from CHA deadlines. Sent my projects off on Monday, and will be taking a break from the scrap-related activities for a while now. YIKES.

So I got this book for my new Canon 40D, and this book for CS3. Can I say I have a lot to learn? It's a touch overwhelming, especially while I'm trying to learn both my camera and the new program's features (I upgraded from CS2 which is a LONG, UGLY story), and trying to keep up with my scrappy deadlines. But since I'm taking a little break from the scrapping for now, it feels OK to focus on the others. This a.m. I tried to get my color management between my camera, my monitor, and my printer all set. And 10 test prints later, I'm getting there.

Nothing else new. We stayed home last weekend because of Jenna's being sick. Not a very exciting weekend, to say the least. And it looks like another quiet week, which I'm OK with.

Have a good day ... and think snow day for Friday. Supposedly there is another storm moving in for Thursday night, and a three-day weekend wouldn't be all that bad. I'm just sayin' . . .

Happy Snow Day!

2008-01-22T15:14:00.000-05:00

YESSS! It happened. I am so happy!!! It couldn't have come at a better time . . . I just got a box of CHA goodies to play with (and send in one week) and I got three projects done. Plus the laundry, plus dinner which is cooking in the crockpot, plus laundry, plus a run to Michael's for supplies, plus a trip to the grocery store, plus unloading the dishwasher. Everything today was just a BONUS. The only bad news is Jenna has a sore throat, but what a gift to be able to keep her home to rest today.

I also finished my photography lessons, which you can see on my photo blog. Off to finish my article for Scrap Supply for February. They are having one heck of a sale. Check it out.

Oh, and did I mention? I love snow days.

Freakishly Busy Week

2008-01-20T19:52:00.000-05:00

Seriously. Monday was dance lessons. Tuesday was dinner with some teachers from Central. Wednesday was freshmen parent orientation at night. Thursday was my LAST grad class. Friday was a haircut and dinner with more friends. Saturday I taught my Elements class. And today was my mom's birthday party. WHEW. I wanted to stay busy, but SERIOUSLY.

Em came home for mom's birthday. She got her haircut, and it looks SO CUTE! Everyone in my family laughs at me about my haircut phobias. I had long hair when I was in elementary school. So long, in fact, I could sit on it. When I finally chopped it all off in 5th grade in the quest for a perfect Dorothy Hamill 'do, well, it "didn't," if you catch my drift. Seriously ugly. So much so that one of the boys in my class, Jay, told me he'd bring me a paper bag to wear over my head. I still give him grief about that when I see him. He will NEVER live it down. LOL! So when it comes to cutting my girl's hair, my freaky phobia emerges. Why do I admit this stuff?

The highlight of my week? Tennis. I've been watching the Australian Open when I get a chance. I love tennis. Not sure why, but I always have. It makes me long for summer though. And when the high today was 2 degrees, a big ol' dose of summer would be amazing.

No news in scrapland. May have an opportunity, but it's too early to say. Don't want to jinx it, and I'm not sure it's right for me at this time. But if it happens I'll share for sure.

Exam week in school, so the kids are stressed to the max. It's a weird week in terms of the schedule, so it should be interesting. No kids on Thursday and Friday while we finish grades. UGH. But I have a student teacher who helps me out a ton, so it shouldn't be too bad.

OK, I'm out for the week. Have a good one!

Clearly I need to brush up on my dancing skills.

2008-01-13T12:48:00.001-05:00

No snow day for me last week. And it was a long one! I started my LAST grad class this week, which will go until March. Also taught another photoshop elements class. That combined with my day job is keeping, well, exhausted. But I know it's good for me to remain busy this time of year. I don't consider myself to be a person prone to depression any time except for the long cold days of January until the end of March. These are my dark days if you will. (Or as close to dark as I get.) So running myself ragged, I feel, keeps me from experiencing the depression that comes from 7 hours of sunshine in three months. It has a name, BTW. It's "SAD" or seasonal affective disorder. And I get me some of that every winter.

I came home from class one night to find Miss J. with her face painted. Doesn't she look adorable? She and her daddy are up to no good when I'm gone. No good, I tell you!

I did nothing creative this week whatsoever. And I'm feeling a bit bummed about that. This afternoon I need to bust out my last DT project for Provo Craft for February. If it wasn't for deadlines I know I would get nothing done.

OK, off to try to create something. Wish me luck, and enjoy your week!

Doing the snow dance . . .

2008-01-10T20:07:00.000-05:00

for sure. Word on the streets (or in the halls in my case) is that in order to make a snow day happen, one must complete the following tasks:
1) Flush an ice cube down the toilet. At first, I wondered about the mental health of the student who mentioned it, but I heard it repeated several times. So consider this a reputable source.
2) Wear your pj's inside out. Sometimes I complete this task completely on accident, so this should be no problem whatsoever.
3) Sleep with your homework under your pillow. There are several variations on the pillow move, one of them being sleep with a SPOON under your pillow. Now that's a new one by me, but I'm up to trying anything.
4) Do the snow-day dance. One student said his family's rendition includes spelling the phrase "let it snow" with your caboose, if you catch my drift. And while I don't fancy myself a dancer per se, I may just bust a move.

Why do I focus on snow days? I ask myself this very question. I fancy myself the queen of snow days, and hey, who doesn't wish to be royalty at some point in their life? And while I love my job, a day off would not hurt my feelings at all. We're in line for a little weather something-something, and my snow day hopes are high.

I'm off. I have a lot of preparations to do tonight. Wish me luck!

And sissy, Jenna says hi, and I love you!

I made it!

2008-01-06T10:45:00.000-05:00

It was back to school on Wednesday, so the whole holiday break was sort of a rip off. It was just too short! The good news was we were only in school three days. I'll tell you, we were ALL tired, teachers and students alike.

So short week, not a lot going on. Em went back yesterday, and is now, I assume, in total panic mode with next semester. She has Physics II, Organic Chemistry, Statistics, a teaching class, and something other bio class I believe. Buh-bye life! I don't know how she does it! The house feels so empty with her gone. Last night as we were off to bed Jenna said, "Don't forget to leave the light on for sissy!" We were both sad when we realized she's gone again.

Took Jenna skiing with some classmates over break. Played with the new camera. (Have I mentioned I'm in love with this camera? LOL!) First they did tubing, which was cool because the tubes hooked to the tow rope and pulled you up the hill. They they took ski lessons. Jen struggled a bit, and got tired. (Dare I say she got her mother's stellar coordination and natural athletic ability? Probably best not to.) But it was a fun day. All Jen wants to do is play outside. And as a hater-of-all-things-winter, I'm forcing myself to get out with her. Up until this weekend we've had constant snow but we're in the midst of a January thaw.

Head on over to my photo blog for more photos. I'm trying to take more pics through the week, then I'll try to load on the weekends. One of my resolutions is to keep working on my photography skills. Wish me luck!

Layouts of 2007

2008-01-01T08:30:00.000-05:00

Come to momma . . .

2007-12-29T20:36:00.000-05:00

That's right, I got a new camera. A Canon 40D. I'm in love people. That's all I can say. I was going to wait until I had the full amount in cash, but the impatient side of me thought it was no big deal to charge the last $300. Can you say INSTANT GRATIFICATION? So I did it. A lot to learn, to be sure, but I'm up to the challenge.

And here is one where I was playing with the settings, familiarizing myself with where everything is on this camera as opposed to my old-school Rebel. Have I mentioned how much I love this camera? Still need work, no doubt about it. I guess I can no longer site faulty, outdated equipment as a reason for a bad shot. Hmmm . . . it's not sounding so great after all. Dang. Something I had not considered.

Peace out.

A few holiday photos

2007-12-26T19:31:00.001-05:00

And a Christmas decoration update. As of 9:15 a.m. there is absolutely no trace of Christmas to be found. Bah Humbug. Seriously, it felt good to get my house back to normal. Now I can enjoy the rest of my vacation knowing everything is DONE. Done, I tell you! We did brave the malls for Em's IPod Touch. Seriously cool. I'd buy one if I wasn't saving my pennies for the new camera. The one calling my name . . . can you hear it?

And did you notice I even included a few pictures of me? It pains me, because in my head I don't look like this. I avoid mirrors (AKA reality) at all costs. And here it is staring me in the face. But for the first time Em and Bill volunteered to have me in the shots, and I figure I owe them for being the paparazzi and having a camera in their face 24/7.

And that handsome man, well he's my dad. (Pardon the toothpick in his mouth. LOL!) I think the world of this man. He has Parkinson's, and it's one nasty disease. His attitude however is nothing but positive. Sometimes evenings are hard for him . . . he tires easily and has trouble staying in conversations. But he was so sharp, and we shared stories of memories of traveling to his hometown in Wisconsin. It was the highlight of my Christmas, to be certain.

And after all of the singing of "I want a hippopotumus for Christmas," Miss J received just that.

A rocking Christmas, indeed.

2007-12-25T21:25:00.000-05:00

Emily's big gift this year was Guitar Hero (or as Jenna calls it "Kitar Rock.") There is nothing like jamming to Aerosmith to get you in the holiday mood. It brings me back to my concert-going days, when my friend Craig took me to see Aerosmith. Five bars into "Sweet Emotion" Steven Tyler passed out, falling off the stage. Concert OVER. Good times, good times. This was before he became drug-free, of course. So we've been jamming out in our household. Funny how the songs of my youth have become "hip" again. Can you spell O-L-D? Yeah? I thought so.

Miss J was in rare form. This morning while waiting for Em to crawl out of bed, (who moped down the stairs with guitar-hero-weary-eyes), she assessed the loot that Santa left. She turned to Bill and I and exclaimed, "See? Even though I was naughty Santa brought me LOTS of presents!" True dat, my girl. True dat.

So it's all over but the cleaning. And over all, I'd mark it a success. I just cannot wait for the Christmas decorations to be safely returned to the crawl space and the house back in order. I have already removed the ornaments and lights from the tree so Bill can put it out to the road in the a.m. I'm hoping for some Kay time. Wish me luck on that.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.

Santa is coming!

2007-12-23T07:02:00.001-05:00

Well, I made it through my last week with kids at school. It is such a stressful time of year with trying to keep up with teaching, home life, plus add all of the stress of Christmas prep. I have been such a scrooge for Christmas anyway, but I'm happy to say at this moment I am all done. Gifts are wrapped, food has been purchased for the meal, and I'm ready to go. I'm excited for Miss J though . . . she is really embracing all things Santa (except for the being good 'cuz Santa is watching. That part just isn't sticking.) It sure looks like she's good in the picture, doesn't it? Not so much.

Here is what makes me happy today. 1) I have received three Christmas cards with photos that I have taken. Now is that cool or what? Add mine to the mix and you have four. Cool beans, I tell ya! 2) Emily is home. It's fun having her around, and she's such a big help. She had her annual friend's Christmas party at our house on Thursday night. They truly enjoy each other, and it's great that these high school friends take time to reconnect. 3) I was asked to stay on the Provo Craft Design Team for another year. I'm happy about that! 4) I am loving all of the visiting and family and friend time of the holidays. We have been busy with holiday gatherings, but it is so much fun to see everyone and reconnect. 5) I bought a Speedlite for my camera with my birthday money. It may just give me something to do this winter that will get me through the holidays without offing myself. Have I mentioned how much I hate winter? 6)I have had former students who are in college in visiting me all week. I am so lucky to be in a profession that brings me in contact with so many amazing people. I do love my job.

OK, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all. I'm shedding my inner scrooge and am off to have fun. Peace out!

BRING IT, Mother Nature.

2007-12-16T07:18:00.001-05:00

That's right. I need some snow, woman. And not just enough to make life miserable, I need the school-stopping, wind howling, must stay home variety. And the timing must be perfect. None of this starting on a Friday or Saturday nonsense. What is up with THAT? I need the Sunday night through Thursday variety. Because without the hope of a snow day, what exactly is the point of snow? These are the things I ask myself. Yes, we're under a winter snow warning. And it's all I can think about. I know, I really need to grow up. Don't count on it though!

Anyhoo, I've been busy. As have we all, I assume. Here are a few of the highlights of the last few weeks:
~Jenna has another ear infection. Good times.
~took Jenna last weekend to a pancake supper with Santa at my school. The high school kids did a fabulous job with the wee ones, and it was fun to see.
~took pics of my neighbors daughter and her friends and experimented more with studio lights. It was fun, and another reminder of how much I have to learn.
~took pictures of my sister's neighbor, Luke, who is around two. He wasn't feeling well, but what a sweet kid! Loved him!
~turned 42. 'Nuff Said.
~had Aunt Max and Uncle Fred over for pizza. They got me a yummy bottle of wine and two gorgeous wine glasses.
~celebrated Christmas with my high school friend and her family. Had a wonderful time. Took their Christmas card photo.
~my girl came home from college. She is a little exam-weary, poor thing. Went yesterday to get her a new bed for her empty room. Three weeks on a pull out couch is too much.
~Went and picked out our tree and decorated it. Now it feels a bit more like Christmas!

OK, that's about it. Check out my photo blog for some of my recent faves. And happy holidays to you all!

It's beginning to look a lot like . . .

2007-12-02T19:10:00.000-05:00

Christmas! I say that like it makes me happy. Truly it does not. You see, we got a small little snowstorm last night. ON A SATURDAY. Therein lies the problem. You see, I'm a fan of the snow day, so a storm on a weekend is a waste. Plus the snow coupled with the fact that we are now in December is making my holiday denial a little hard to pull off. We are cutting way back on buying gifts this year with one in college and one in daycare, so the fun is rather gone. BTW, that is not a real photo out in the snow, it's a photo effect. You like?

Let's see. Went to IKEA yesterday on a power shopping spree. I needed two more Expedit shelves, one more for my scrapping area and one for the family room for Jenna's toys. My sister needed some things as well. I was on a time crunch because we had a dinner at one of Bill's shooting clubs. I got home with 15 minutes to spare. We went to the Long Rifleman's Club where they wear authentic garb (?) and shoot muzzleloaders and older guns. What a neat bunch of people. The party was in an old log cabin with no electricity, and an outhouse. But the food (including two deep-fried turkeys) was amazing.

Today Jenna woke up with a migraine AGAIN. It is so upsetting. I hate that I passed this tendency on to her. She wanted me to lay with her and rub her back, and felt like she was going to throw up. At 10:00 she finally got back to sleep, which is the only way to get rid of them for us. I feel I have to talk to the Dr. again about possible medications, not that any worked for me when I was younger. I never know if she is going to wake up still feeling sick, so I decided to get some things done around the house while Bill went and cleared snow for everyone and their brother.

First, I put up the shelves. It took me a while, but the real fun came when I had to sort and organize what I was going to put on said shelves. WHEW. I organized for a good 7 hours today. I swear, I'm not a slob. (OK, maybe I am.) But everywhere I looked there was something out of place. And Jenna's toys/books/crafts was a huge task. I feel better now that it's done, but what a waste of a Sunday.

No scrapping for me AGAIN this weekend. But you can see my work for the December Newsletter at ScrapSupply here. I did have fun looking through my magazines today for one of the new bookshelves and seeing the magazines I've been pubbed in. Those were the good old days, when I made scrapbooking more of a priority. I've GOT to get back into that habit. I mean it.

OK, have a great week. And pray to the snow day gods if you're the praying type. I could use a day for myself. KWIM?

Weekend Update

2007-11-26T18:09:00.000-05:00

Well, I survived the Thanksgiving weekend. While I was the hostess I probably had the least amount of work. Everyone in the family brought something, and my mom even made the turkey, stuffing, and gravy at her house and brought it over. Easy peasy. Emily and Hayley (AKA mini-Marthas) baked the pies Wednesday while I was at school. The dinner was very relaxed and delicious. I truly believe my mom's stuffing is the best food on earth. Seriously.

Before the dinner I had all of the grandkids come over for a picture. Jenna was in rare form, of course. That girl just wears me out sometimes. This is one of the best shots. I made them all go outdoors after unsuccessfully capturing them inside with studio lights. The complained about the cold and snow, but like true paparazzi I kept on shooting.

Friday we went to Ford Field to watch our football team try for the state title. What an amazing experience. And while we were unsuccessful at the state title, it was such an accomplishment to make it that far. Chemic Pride was alive and well. I think 80% of Midland showed up at the game!

The rest of the weekend I was lazy. Seriously so. I am embarrassed and how little I accomplished. And while I have Christmas shopping to do, I just didn't have the heart to go out and battle the crowds. So instead I stayed in and ate. And ate some more. Then I took a nap and woke up and had a snack. Did I mention I was a touch lazy? In the midst of the fun our dryer broke. Bill replaced that yesterday and we worked on laundry to see how well it worked. It's tough to live such an exciting life.

OK, off to have a snack and lay down. Are you noting a theme?

You know it's been a while . . .

2007-11-21T06:00:00.001-05:00

since your last blog post when you have to log into your Google account. Where on earth is the time going? I feel like I finally remembered to label my checks with October and we're already to Thanksgiving. Is this time flying phenomena yet another reminder that I'm getting old? Why yes, I believe it is.

Jenna went hunting last weekend with Bill. Yes, that's right, I allowed my five-year-old daughter out in the woods with firearms. It totally freaked me out. And yet Bill is a hunter and wants to share it with his daughter. I had to ask myself if she were a boy would I be less nervous? Answer, a little bit. He wasn't on state land, and she really wanted to go. I prepped Bill beforehand, saying she may freak out if he actually shot a deer. (Translation - I WILL FREAK OUT IF YOU SHOOT A DEER IN FRONT OF MY DAUGHTER). I am not anti-hunting, but have absofreakinglutely no desire to see one shot. Jenna is different. Bill said the minute she saw the buck she said, "Daddy, you HAVE to shoot it!" So Bill had earplugs on her, had her hold her ears, and as soon as he shot yelled, "He shoots, He Scores, High five, daddy!" Um, yeah. That would have been my reaction exactly. She is still excited. I predict she will be a fabulous hunter one day.

We also went out to dinner last weekend with my good friends Mark and Sally. Bill was a touch late trying to get out of the woods with Jenna's deer, but we had fun. Mark had been to the MHS football game, and is the #1 MHS football fan. So it was great to hear him describe the win that propelled our team to the state finals. This group of seniors were my first group of freshmen when I moved up to the high school, and I am so excited for them. They'll be playing a fantastic team, and yet they know they can overcome a 28-7 deficit to win a semifinal game. GO CHEMICS! We had a pep rally yesterday, and despite the behavior of a few, it was quite a feeling. We also had a swimmer who won first place at the state meet. Go Gessi!

Thanksgiving is hosted here this year, and everyone is bringing something. So I have very little stress. I'm looking forward to family time. I'm taking pictures of the grandkids since Billy will be home. I'm also taking family pictures for one of my student's families. I really need some time off. Em is already home and she and Hayley are making the pies today. It's best I won't be home to see the mess . . . hopefully it will be cleaned up by the time I get home from school.

In scrappy news, I got my copy of 601 Great Scrapbook Ideas yesterday. I had nine pages picked up for that book, and it was a kick looking through the book at those pages. Even Bill was impressed. (It may be because his picture is IN the book, LOL!) Jenna's sweet face appeared three times on the front and back covers, which was also a first. I need to make more time to scrap and submit. Maybe I'll get caught up over xmas vacation and get back on a regular schedule. We'll see! I posted two layouts I did last weekend JUST FOR ME. I actually go them done while Bill and Jenna were hunting. Go figure!

I'm sure this is my last blog post for a few. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. I have so very much to be thankful for . . .

Mondays can be a bummer.

2007-11-12T14:36:00.000-05:00

Especially when your girl wakes up at 4:00 a.m. with a migraine. I can't believe she is starting them this early . . . her first was on our trip home from Disney last spring break. It's in the family, but no one started as young as the J-bird. The good news is once she finally got herself to sleep she woke up and it was gone. That was really the only way for me as well. Now Alleve takes the edge off for me and I don't always need to sleep, assuming I take it in time.

So J and I have been hanging out all day. It was rainy and dreary, but the sun is peeking out now, thank goodness. She's fine and I'm bored.

Here is the latest of my girls. Used my friend's studio lights. I think this needs to be my next investment. I'd love a new camera, but shooting with lights (and learning the process) may just get me through the winter without offing myself. Have I mentioned how much I hate winter? No? Well, 'tis true.

Have a fabulous Monday.

Layouts Galore

2007-11-05T18:35:00.000-05:00

I finished eight, that's right, EIGHT layouts this weekend. It was scrapping like I haven't experienced for months. Reminded me why I like this hobby so much. Here's one of my girls using a cool new line from Sassafras Lass. Hope you like it!

A few layouts

2007-11-03T20:29:00.000-04:00

from the September newsletter at Scrap Supply. Have I mentioned how much I love this team? I am such a slacker anymore about submitting or updating my online galleries. There just aren't enough minutes in a day for me to accomplish everything I would like.

By the way, have you checked out the November Newsletter from Scrap Supply? There are some fantastic articles and ideas. You won't be disappointed!

It's been a slow Saturday. I actually scrapped today. I had a wonderful, motivating surprise this a.m. which woke up my mojo. I looked at this thread at 2 Pea's. It totally made my day. So I emailed the person who mentioned me, and thanked them. I needed that. So I did some layouts today for the BHG idea book call. I'm not so great at lifting people, but I tried. At least I'm submitting something. It's been since last spring (or maybe even before that) since I've had the nerve to try to submit. Wish me luck, I'll need it!

Jennabean is coughing up a storm. Day 7 on an antibiotic, and sicker than ever. I tell you, this is bad. I feel awful for her. And Em's football team lost today. Sorry, hon!

Have a great Saturday. We get to "fall back" tonight for daylight savings time. An extra hour of sleep . . . life is good.

Don't you love my new song? I think it's my fave right now. Peace out, peeps!

Glorious Fall

2007-10-29T19:12:00.001-04:00

We skipped dance class tonight. I'm tired, the weather is amazing, and I wanted to go outside and play for a while. So we raked leaves and took in one of the last decent weather days, I'm sure. That's the bad thing about Michigan. You know your nice days are numbered.

Headed to MSU to take Em to lunch yesterday. She survived truning 21. And I can sleep again.

Have a terrific Monday!

A Saturday of . . .

2007-10-27T21:12:00.000-04:00

taking Jenna to the Dr. for her double ear infection, teaching Photoshop Elements, napping (glorious), editing and delivering pictures, going to the Nature Center (brrrr.....), then visiting family, playing with a kitty, and having pizza. Ah, Saturday. Busy, yet fun.

Happy Birthday to my baby at midnight tonight. She'll be 21. I love you, my girl. Be smart!!!

Photos on Thursday

2007-10-25T20:05:00.000-04:00

And uploaded by Grey's Anatomy! God, I'm good!

Head over to my photo blog to see more.

It's Fall!

2007-10-23T18:37:00.000-04:00

Here are a few photos from a quick shoot after school. I LOVE FALL. It was a little cold, and you can still see Miss J's black eye. But we went searching for colors and found quite a few. Last year I saw swans at this location and was hoping to see them again. All photos using my 85 mm 1.8 lens. I'm still learning it . . . sometimes I am truly disappointed in my pics but I was happy today. Practice, practice, practice, right? Worked a little with backlighting and loved the yellow glow.

Is this thing on?

2007-10-21T20:28:00.000-04:00

It's been another marathon week for me. I swear, I am so busy it hurts. Let's see.

Monday? School, Dr.'s office then to x-ray since Jen's eye swelled up again. (No fracture, but the Dr. felt that she probably shouldn't have played soccer on Saturday. OOPS!) Then off to dance.

Tuesday? School, then out to dinner with the ladies from Central. I miss teaching with them, but I'm grateful we keep in touch.

Wednesday? School, then shopping for birthday presents, for the Lia Sophia Party, and for party supplies for the weekend. Also spent 3 hours learning the new version of Photoshop Elements 5.0 for my class on Saturday.

Thursday? School, then hosted a Lia Sophia party for Em. Had quite a few guests, and had fun. In the middle of the party got a call from the owner of the camera shop saying he had puchased Elements 6 for the class rather than version 5.0. Guess what? I don't know it! Finished my handouts for my Saturday class.

Friday? School, then off to a Friday night crop where I needed to finish my 3 PC projects that were due on Tuesday. I've never been late in two years, and I had to ask for an extension. Got them done, and worked on two November layouts for SS.

Saturday? Taught Elements from 9-12, then home to get ready to host a birthday party for Em, Jami and Scott. It was easy and we had fun overall.

Today? Exhausted. Went grocery shopping, did laundry, and took the girls to the Nature Center for a few pics. It was the perfect fall day, and to be honest, I was too tired to enjoy it. Feel guilty for that! Now it's preparing for the week. I need a vacation from my life, for sure.

Have a great week! I know it's another busy one for me. My goal is to get out and shoot some great pics and enjoy the fall colors. I haven't done enough of that, and I'm already feeling guilty.

Homecoming

2007-10-14T08:25:00.000-04:00

for my niece today. Got to the dinner at her house a little late, and it was getting dark, but got some cool shots of her and her friends. They had so much fun together and laughed constantly. It was a mix of boys and girls, some with dates and some just going as friends. We were talking about how "back in the day" if you weren't asked to the dance you didn't go. Groups of friends weren't allowed. We've come a long way, baby!

Another week o' fun

2007-10-13T06:35:00.000-04:00

It was another busy week, but a good one overall. Let's see. Last weekend started with a trip to the Dr. for Jenna. Thank goodness they have Saturday a.m. hours because she was starting another ear infection. The problem was her allergies, and they were flaring because of the abnormally hot fall we were having. She missed her soccer game, which she was really upset about. She asked me, "mom, how am I going to score goals if I'm not at the game?" True dat, my competitive one. She perked up quickly once on the meds.

I had promised Chris that I would take some senior pictures. So my sister and I walked around downtown Saturday (in the sweltering heat, drinking hot coffee of course) and tried to scope out some outdoor settings that had the look of a city, or urban setting. Chris wanted solid-color or textured backgrounds. So I met him late afternoon with Jami and Maggi and we did the shoot. I think we got some really good shots, and I am learning with every session I do. Sunday I proofed some of the photos and spent some time with Bill and Jenna at a pumpkin farm. It was so hot though that is wasn't much fun. Plus she wasn't feeling all that well still. The weekend went SO FAST!

This week was busy as well. Monday dance, Tuesday grocery store, Wednesday to wait in line for computers for my sister and niece, Thursday soccer and photo club, and last night the homecoming parade, then to the coffee shop with my sisters, Emily who was in town for the day, and my niece, then off to a local pub with my math girls. WHEW. I went to bed last night at 9:00. How sad is that? I was hoping the triple espresso after school would keep me awake, but no go.

Did you notice Jen's shiner? It's a good one. She went on a field trip at school on Wednesday and a student ran into her in a corn maze. I about threw up when I saw it. I don't take seeing my girls in pain well AT ALL. I remember when Emily needed stitches on her chin when she was about the same age as Jenna and I thought I was going to have a nervous breakdown in the ER. I called my SIL who worked in the ER to drive over to help. Yep, I'm a strong one! The picture is one where Alison and I were trying out her studio lights. Wow, do I have a lot to learn. But we're getting there!

I just finished the book The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian. Wow. Surprising. There were so many things that sort of bugged me about the premise of the book, like a connection between now and characters of the book The Great Gatsby which I thought was a stretch. But the way it turned out was really unexpected. I don't know if I loved it. But it was different and surprised me, which can be hard to do.

Another busy weekend planned. More later!

Some more pictures of Chris

2007-10-07T07:30:00.000-04:00

Chris wanted another photo shoot for a portfolio, and yesterday we walked around downtown and I got some pics. Check out my photo blog for more!

What Up?

2007-10-03T20:52:00.000-04:00

So under duress, I'm blogging tonight. One of my two faithful blog readers pressured me into posting, even though my life is extremely small and boring right now and I have nothing to say. I have GOT to get a life. Seriously.

Let's see. My uncle Hank died last week. He's actually my dad's uncle, but was like a grandpa to me. He and my Aunt Edith were my Godparents. The showing was Thursday, and the funeral on Friday. He was 97 years old. Can you believe it? And in really good health up until the last few years. They were married for 71 years. That's a lifetime! It was more like a celebration of life, but still sad. I'm not one of those accepting people that finds solace in death. I hate goodbyes. Really hate them. Em came home for the funeral and showing so we got to hang out. And it's nice to see family, even under these circumstances.

Slow weekend. Bill took off to a conference so I was single-momming it until yesterday. It is seriously warm outside so Jen and I have been exploring outdoors. The pic is from the Nature Center on Sunday. She gets so sassy in those boots, I tell ya! She's sassy anyways . . . who am I kidding?

Allergies are kicking my butt, but I've found a temporary solution. I'm taking a double dose of Allegra, on the diagnosis of Dr. Kay. As Elaine knows, I'm a fan of the medication. And I am feeling better.

OK, off to watch Private Practice. I'm digging the new fall shows! (Did I mention I'm in desperate need of a life?) In scrapping news, I made the October Newsletter at PageMaps. It is such a cool site, with awesome sketches. Perfect for the time/creatively impaired. Also, had my first article at ScrapSupply. It's such a cool team! I'm having a blast.

OK, signing off.

Peace out!

A busy one!

2007-09-23T13:18:00.000-04:00

Em came home for the Bill's birthday, and we've been going nonstop since yesterday morning. We had coffee at mom's yesterday a.m., came home and edited photos from my last shoot, headed to soccer (and Jen scored another goal!), to Community Day at Bill's school, to dinner at the casino with Bill's aunt and uncle Fred and Max. We got home at midnight. And no, I didn't win the big bucks and I won't be quitting my day job. Woke up and made pancakes, bacon and eggs for breakfast, shot some pics of the girls, did a quick edit on them, and now I'm preparing for the family to arrive for Bill's bday, round 2. Check out more of the girls on my photo blog. Hope you had a good weekend!

More photos!

2007-09-19T20:30:00.000-04:00

This time all boys.Could they be any dang cuter? They are all unedited, but I knew the moms would want to see something. Head on over to my photo blog and check them out!

I shot some seniors today!

2007-09-15T22:19:00.001-04:00

With my camera, of course! Click the link to my photography blog and tell me what you think. Thanks!

She shoots, and she

2007-09-09T19:31:00.000-04:00

SCORES! Jenna made her first goal, and her team's ONLY goal, at her soccer game yesterday morning. Safe to say, she was thrilled! I was so excited, I got a really crappy picture of the shot, mainly because I was crying. She will only have one "first goal," and it brought tears to my eyes. But the celebration continued throughout the rest of the game, so I got some of those shots. And so it begins. Mia Hamm, watch out!

Went to a fun engagement party last night. The picture is from the party. Yikes, do I really look like this? I swear I don't. I handed off my camera to the bride's niece to take the pics, and she did an amazing job. Except for this picture of me, of course. It's not her fault I look like this, I guess.

Have a wonderful week!

WHEW. I made it.

2007-09-07T20:35:00.001-04:00

First week of school, DONE. All of the stressing, and mourning the end of summer is over. I can settle back into a routine and just deal. It's time.

Isn't J just the sweetest? Look at that cutie. Notice how far away she is in the second picture? That's because she was running up to the school. I thought it was eagerness to start. Instead, sadly, it was because she didn't want to be seen with me. It started the night before, when Bill and I were talking about her first day. He was telling her that we would both be dropping her off to school. She replied, "It's OK! I'll just ride my bike!" I don't think so, my girl. Didn't think anything about it until we walked into school (or should I say I was running to catch up with her), and we were standing outside the office waiting for Bill to arrive from work. Out of the corner of my eye I see her slowly, sneakily, taking steps away from me. SERIOUSLY. I looked over at her and said, "Um, Jen, am I crowding you or something?" She gave me a sneer, and an eyeroll. It speaks volumes about the teenage years. Yikes.

But she's happy when she goes to school, and when the daycare provider picks her up at lunch, (although she's really tired), and she's happy when she gets home. Her teacher is AMAZING. It's such a relief to know she's happy and confident. Emily had a really hard time going to school, so it's a big change. Fall soccer has started too, and dance starts up again next week. Busy, busy, busy.

I have the most amazing students this year. Every year I think about going back to school, but I picture having the students from the year before. And I get a little sad that I'm not going to have them. That is until I meet the new crowd. A lot of them (the juniors and seniors) I have had before, and it's so much fun to hear what they've been up to all summer, and see how they are evolving into young adults. As a bonus, my freshmen are so cool! And to top it all off, I'm coteaching with Elaine who keeps me laughing. The best part of this week though was having my former students stop in before school, at lunch, and after school just to say hi. They have no idea how much that means to me. And it's the perfect motivator to be the best teacher I can possibly be so this batch takes the time to come in and say hello next year. I have the best job in the world. Seriously.

Have a great weekend!

Labor Day Sharing

2007-09-03T07:55:00.000-04:00

Here are my projects for the awesome Sept. kit from A Million Memories. It was mostly from Fancy Pants, one of my all-time faves! Add to that fall colors, which I adore, and you know I had fun with this one. I have fun with kits, trying to find a way to make each layout look a little different in style and color scheme. It's a little challenge I issue myself, and it keeps me working on my scrapping skills.

I'm watching a lot of tennis now. For me, it's the best thing about the Labor Day weekend. (I know, how many ways can you spell nerd?) Tennis and hockey are my sports . . . mainly because they are SO SIMILAR, right? I can't explain it, but it's true!

Hey, if you have a minute, there is still the "So You Think You Can Scrap?" contest going on through Scrapper's Bliss. It was so fun being a part of it, but it's down to the last two people, the fabulous Amy Coose and Dena Coe. I love these ladies, and their talent will knock your socks off. They could use your votes. So please visit here to vote!

OK, I'm off to cook a big breakfast for the fams. I don't do that often . . . but it's fun every once in a while. I'm hoping to get in a little scrappy time on this Labor Day, but highly doubt it will happen. Tomorrow is Jenna's first day of kindergarten, and my first day with kids. Summer is OVER, baby!

Happy Labor Day!

It's been a while!

2007-09-01T08:08:00.000-04:00

I've been holding on to the last days of summer. Had two teacher workdays on Wednesday and Thursday, and start with kids on Tuesday. I love my job, and the people I work with. I was glad to see everyone. And the reality is Jenna is ready to move on. She needs more structure and activity, and school will be perfect for that. I'm not gonna lie, I love my summers. But the excitement of fall, and starting another year . . . that's cool too!

Speaking of cool, I finally get to announce that I made the design team of Scrap Supply. I am so excited! The current team is AMAZING, and I can't wait to work with everyone. You can see the announcement here, and check out the picture Jenna took of me yesterday. She did pretty well, no? I had the camera on the tripod to start, but she rotated it and focused and shot. A budding photog, that one!

Speaking of the picture, does anyone else freak out when they see themselves in a picture? These are the things that went through my head. "What up with that haircut? Maybe Elaine was right, and I do have a "Jane Fonda" look, whatever the hell THAT means! And did I not read the memo that women of a certain age should stay out of the sun? The fact that the crows feet are white stripes from squinting while playing outdoors . . . NICE. And isn't my nose fatter at the end, a la Jimmy Durante? It sure looks like it to me!" Thankfully my roots had been colored, or I would have had a field day on the totally grey look I've got going on. You see, I don't color my hair to make it lighter, I color it DARKER to hide the grey, mainly because I don't want to be mistaken for Jenna's grandma. After I photoshopped the picture to death, I think it turned out like an Olan Mills glamour shot. Ridiculous. But if you have the technology, why not use it? WINK.

Other news . . . Jenna is back in spring soccer, and will start dance again next week. Emily has a really hard schedule this fall, but is looking forward to attending the football games. She may even visit us soon! I'm still in the process of redoing the living room/scrap area. The furniture came yesterday, and a whole posse helped me decide where everything should go. Today the job is to hang the frames. I will try and post pictures this weekend. It ROCKS. That's all I'm sayin! And have I finished prepping the hallway for paint by scrubbing the wallpaper residue? Well, no I have not. Maybe that's a Sunday job. (or maybe not.)

Peace out, and enjoy your Labor Day!

She's flying solo, people!

2007-08-21T22:53:00.000-04:00

It started with a pep talk. The ins, the outs, the stops the starts, the basics if you will. Then dad running alongside the bike, saying "slow down" every step or two, as if she was listening. Gradually, dad hangs back and lets her go on her own. Is it because he is winded from all of the running? Perhaps. This is a big moment for both dad and daughter. (And mother, who is snapping pictures furiously a la paparazzi.) And an occasional crash whilst stopping? No problemo. This girl has found her wings. And somehow Bill and I have grown older in the process.

Taught Photoshop Elements last night. What a great group again. I hate to be a teacher geek, but it feels good to be teaching again. Will I think that next week when it's time to go back to school? Hecks no.

Went to a work gathering/barbeque for Bill's school district. Met some more amazing people who were involved in a work camp that takes high school students from around the country and has them visit communities and do work projects for those in need. They stayed at the Creek, bunking in the high school. The people at the dinner are the organizers of the event, and the passion they feel for the work that they are doing? Inspirational beyond belief. We could all do more, couldn't we?

Have a great Tuesday.

I'm back!

2007-08-19T15:35:00.000-04:00

Another weekend getaway. This time to a lake near home, staying at my cousin's log cabin. It was COLD, but fun! Woke up to rain this morning so headed out a little early. Uncle Fred and Aunt Max came and spent the day yesterday, as well as Scott, Jami, and Maggi. We cooked out lunch and dinner, and had s'mores and hobo pies last night. It started to sprinkle just as we all decided we couldn't possible eat one more thing. Went on a pontoon ride, saw a mink, some turtles, and a lot of ducks. The guys caught a few fish right off the docks. I could get used to cabin living, I tell ya! Here are some pics of our weekend.

On Friday before we left for the weekend we went back to Emily's to see the final room and to go shopping. There was no time on the day we moved her in, and this time she got to take Hayley on a tour of state. We went scrap shopping, school clothes shopping, and had a fun lunch at Johnny Rockets. We were gone all day, then jumped back in the car and headed for the lake. Wish Em could have come with us! There is nothing she loves more than sitting around a campfire!

Came home to some good scrappy news. First, I moved on to the next round of So You Think You Can Scrap. Didn't expect to after scrapping for my life again. Go vote if you get a chance!

Also got some cool congratulatory emails from people who noticed my layout in the BasicGrey August Newsletter. I was so excited when Kelly Goree, one of my all-time favorite scrappers, emailed me and asked me to participate. Well, HECKS YEAH was my answer! LOL! Thanks to those who noticed!

Got approached to do another fun little project. I'll share more when I can.

OK, off to switch the laundry. It's raining cats and dogs, so maybe I'll even scrap a little something this afternoon. What else is a girl to do?

ONE MORE FULL WEEK OF SUMMER. But who's counting?

Fun news!

2007-08-16T18:20:00.000-04:00

I got this in the mail yesterday. I needed a little boost, and it appeared at my doorstep! It's my first time in Simple Scrapbooks, and I'm excited! I haven't been submitting much this last year, due to the four-letter-word in my life . . . TIME. I forgot how much fun it is to open a layout and see your page. I wish I had more of my little swear word, but I don't.

Sat in the dentist's chair for almost three hours today. Now that is a good time, I tell ya! Came home and took a nap while the numbness wore off. Do I lead an exciting life or what? LOL!

Plans, plans, and more plans. I'll share them when I return.

Peace, people!

Sugarland ROCKS!

2007-08-14T23:23:00.000-04:00

OK, I have to admit. I'm a little late to the country world. I have just started to enjoy some country in the last few years. And one day while channel surfing I came across a show on CMT about the group Sugarland. I loved them. They seemed like such humble, normal people. So I downloaded the entire album Enjoy the Ride. That's my first time choosing an entire album using ITunes. A song here or there? Well sure. But I've never picked an entire album. When I found out they were coming to Midland, I was excited. But didn't expect to be able to see them. Was I surprised when Emily bought me 4 tickets for Mother's Day!

It was an AMAZING show. The warm-up band was Emerson Drive. They were really good! But I was anxious for Sugarland. Especially since Em couldn't make it to the concert at the last minute due to studying for her Calc III final. So I asked my brother and SIL. Not a lot of real country lovers in our group.

To be honest, it's been a lot of years since I saw a concert, (think the Reagan era), but I'm telling you this was my FAVORITE! Jennifer Nettles is amazing. Truly a bundle of adorable, southern energy. She never stopped moving! And when she sang "Just Make Me Believe" she just about brought the house down.

Thank you, Emily. Wish you could have been there with us to enjoy it!

OK, I'm feeling a bit better now.

2007-08-14T16:35:00.001-04:00

Let's see what's new. Sunday we went to a family reunion for Bill's side. Jen had fun playing with her second cousins, and spent hours under the swingset picking (and selling) wildflowers. Remember those days when you got immersed in play like that? The girls went and had the adults "go shopping" in their store, using imaginary money and credit cards. She didn't even come out to play ball, which was a first.

Yesterday was a busy one. First, took Jenna to the Dr. for two immunizations (ouch). Then off to swimming lessons, then to the local fair. Yesterday was the animals day, where we walk through the barns. I think Jenna touched every single species present. She is afraid of NOTHING. One of those sweet looking cows almost kicked me as she moved out of the ring. I was standing talking to a student, and she just about got me. I'm such a city girl. Didn't even see it coming.

Have I mentioned it's a busy summer? LOL. We have something planned every day and evening until next Thursday. I'm telling you, I need a vacation from summer vacation.

Peace out.

Well, she's moved in.

2007-08-12T22:38:00.000-04:00

Emily is now in her new home, at college. It's an old house, and she will be living with four other girls. We spent all day on Saturday moving her in. We had a huge trailer, thankfully, and a lot of help. My brother and Jami came with, and they are both workers. Plus Maggi came with, which entertained Jenna. The house is, well, a college house. But the excitement in Em's eyes? Priceless. She and her roomies shopped for a long time to find the perfect house, and I guess this one is it. I saw a horrible paint job which led to windows that don't open, slanted floors, and general disrepair. I guess it's official, I'm old. And I never led that college life, living on (or slightly off) campus. I drove 45 minutes to college every day, then back home. I was mom to Em when I was in college. And I wouldn't have it any other way.

When I dropped her off her freshman year of college, it was ugly. She was struggling to say goodbye to Jenna, and coming to terms with the changes her life was taking. And I was keeping it together because I felt I needed to be there for her, emotionally. And trust me, I can be an emotional wreck at the drop of a hat. But once we got on campus, spent some time wandering around campus, Emily, with her amazing wisdom, said "mom, I don't think I'm going to cry when you leave. No offense, but this is amazing." And it was. The people, the energy, the whole nine yards. COOL. Made me wish I would have experienced college life without a newborn. The fact that Bill cried like a baby? Well, that's a whole 'nother story.

Last year, dropping her off at the dorm again, felt like old hat. No emotional turmoil, I know that's where she belongs. She was bored at home, which was kind of hard . . . knowing she needed her wings and we were holding her back.

Fast-forward to this year, and moving her into her house. Hearing about the house for almost a year, the trip to IKEA picking out the right desk and comforter, planning for this experience . . . it was exciting! And moving her in yesterday, then going out for dinner to celebrate, looking at how happy she was, well it was a good day!

That is, until I got home. I walked into her now empty room, and it hit me. Here's the next phase of her leaving, the empty space she left behind. And while I know in my heart it's the exact place she should be, and what I always wanted for her - to be able to go out on her own with joy and confidence, it made it somehow so much more real to me. So much more final. My baby is gone. It's bittersweet, that's for certain.

Love you, my Emily.

Look Mom, two layouts!

2007-08-10T10:25:00.001-04:00

Amazed? Me too. It's been a while. That's all I'm saying. OK, time to face the day. Make it a good one!

So last night . . .

2007-08-09T14:45:00.000-04:00

the photography group went and shot pictures of this amazing sunflower field. It was a drive and a half, but well worth it! We shot for an hour and a half, until we lost the sun. Hit a deer on the way home. Good times! See my photo blog for more examples. I was working on aperture and it's effect on exposure. There was a lot of bug love on the flowers, that's all I'm sayin'!

Project: Scrap Area

2007-08-09T08:37:00.000-04:00

The goal? Get the stuff out of the dining room which I couldn't use, and make a spot in the formal living room for my scrap stuff. The before pics weren't really before, because at its ugliest everything was piled onto two sofa tables in the dining room. Then I moved it all into the living area, and worked in two rooms.

Last weekend my sis and I painted, and put up the Expedit shelving.

Phase three (coming soon) is to clear out the old furniture when Em takes it to school (which is not in the photo), hang the black and white pics in black frames with white mats, and get the new drawer and door units for the Expedit so I can once and for all be free of the plastic bins. I want most things closed/covered so the room appears neat. Also, Bill is going to add crown moulding to the room to give it a little character just like he added to the dining room.

The great thing is we are getting use out of this room instead of it being empty and collecting dust.

Before:

After

Seriously. Enough already.

2007-08-07T19:42:00.000-04:00

Still busy, and it's bringing me down. Let's see. Went to IKEA on Thursday of last week, and took Em so she could get some things for her house. She's living off campus for the first time next year. So by the time we loaded her stuff, my stuff, and my sister's stuff, you couldn't see out the back window of my (white trash) van. YIKES. It's easy to create needs in that store, for sure. That killed Thursday.

Then I decided while Bill was gone for the weekend to paint the formal living room, which is now becoming my scrap area. It is the most unused room of our house. It is the dust collecting room. Once Em decided to take the couch, chairs, and tables for school it was decided to make a scrap corner. So I bought the Expedit bookcase. And to put it up, you have to attach it to the walls, which needed to be painted. So my sister Beth came over and we jumped in. Friday, I stripped the rest of the wallpaper backing off the walls. Why? I don't know. I just wanted to get it done. Saturday was the first coat of paint and Maggi's bday (see picture.) Sunday was the final coat of paint, and a trip to Urgent Care. I fell off the ladder, spilling brown paint on my off-white carpet. Hurt my wrist but kept painting. Then later when putting together the bookcase, I did the real damage. I thought I was going to throw up it hurt so bad. Not broken though, thank goodness.

There goes my weekend! But I feel a sense of accomplishment. Once the old furniture is out, I'll go look for the remaining pieces to finish the room. I'm excited, and I think it will look nice, as well as be functional.

I spent the day yesterday moving all the scrap stuff back in the room. A friend came and visited last night. Had an inservice this morning, and went shopping all afternoon for lamps. Another day bites the dust.

I'm starting to feel the end of summer. No matter how much I love my job, I love my freedom too, and I'm feeling it slipping away. I have this list in my head of things I haven't done enough of this summer, and it's bumming me out. I wish I would have read more, taken more pictures, done more scrapping . . . and the days are slipping away. Oh well, there's always next summer, right?

Peace.

Tag! You're it.

2007-08-06T06:48:00.001-04:00

Well, I've been tagged by one of my friends from ScrapMuse, the ever-talented Donna, and it's my turn to tag five more people.
First, Miss Amy, who is contestant with me in the SYTYCS contest is a constant source of inspiration, as well as being one of the kindest, most supportive people I know. And her talent? Wow.
Another person whom I greatly admire is the famous Torm.Not only is she a terrifically talented scrapper, she has such style in her writing. I look forward to seeing her pages and reading the stories behind them. Gorgeous stuff, I tell ya!
I have been a fan of Alecia for years. She has been true to her style, and was doing her version of "Freestyle meets art" before it was the new trend. Check her out!
Then there is Shaunte. What to day about her. In one word? HILARIOUS. I think she should be a writer. I go to her blog often to read her take on life, as well as see her gorgeous family and her amazing pages. Love her.
OK, I''m out for now. I'll add one later.
Peace!

Nine down . . .

2007-08-01T20:12:00.000-04:00

NONE TO GO. I just finished my 9th layout in the last three days. I am creatively pooped. But almost completely caught up. WHEW. I may even have time to do a layout of my own choosing . . . well, maybe not. The laundry room is calling. That's it for today!

Catching Up

2007-07-30T18:57:00.000-04:00

Jen and I went to the Detroit Zoo last week on Wednesday with my SIL and niece. We had fun, the highlights being seeing this adorable polar bear swim around us, and feeding the giraffes. We then headed to the airport to pick up my niece from her trip to Paris. It was a fun day!

Also last week I took a few former students out to dinner and for a coffee. They are both seniors, and one I have known for 5 years, the other was my student for three years in a row. It was great to catch up with them. I am so fortunate to have a job that puts me in contact with so many amazing people. I miss my kids!

Then we went for the weekend to Elk Rapids and hung out at the beach. It was TERRIFIC. The weather was perfect, and it was very relaxing. I even read a wonderful book called Broken For You. It was wonderful. Plus we went out to lunch with my nephew who is a deputy up north. He took us to a wonderful restaurant called Pearls. It was New Orleans fare, and Bill tried alligator. And no, I did not taste it, thank you very much. Jen is truly a water baby, and is so tan, despite the SPF 50.

Now it's back to reality. And laundry. I actually scrapped today in between laundry, swim lessons, and a nap. (And that nap was for both Jenna and I! LOL!) I finished my entry for So You Think You Can Scrap. I will probably be scrapping for my life again since my layout is near the bottom again. Oh well. I love a challenge! Also got five layouts mostly done from the August kit from A Million Memories. Now tomorrow I can focus on my ProvoCraft projects, and maybe, just maybe, get a layout done just for me! Wish me luck. Off to fold another load of laundry.

We're back!

2007-07-23T08:02:00.000-04:00

Sunburned, tired, and happy. We went to our friends' cottage this weekend and had an awesome time. I took so many pictures, and Jenna experienced so many firsts. She rode on a jet-ski (or ski-jet, as she calls it) several times, we took pontoon rides, went tubing behind the jet-ski and the boat, sat by the fire and roasted smores, and ate until I didn't think I could eat again.

Our friends completely redid this cottage, and it is absolutely gorgeous. I know they feel they still have a lot to do, but when you look at the before pictures as well as hear them describe what they have personally done, you would be amazed. Their girls are these amazingly kind kids, and Jenna just loves to be around them. It was the perfect end to a crazy two weeks, and it's amazing what a different state of mind I am in because of their hospitality.

OK, off to catch up with the rest of my life, the parts I have been sorely neglecting the past two weeks. Things like bills, laundry, deadlines. . . wish me luck!

Come to momma!

2007-07-20T18:41:00.000-04:00

Well look at the little surprise awaiting me when I got home from class yesterday! Have you seen this baby? The Cricut Expression is a larger machine and it ROCKS! I am so lucky to be on the ProvoCraft team. They have been so awesome to work for, and extremely generous. Now, where do I store it?

I made it through my second grad class of the summer. It was every day last week from 8-5. The class was "Dreamweaver" which is web software. I updated my school web page, then worked on one for photography. I decided that in retirement, when I open my photography business, I will PAY someone to build a site. I don't have the knowledgenor the patience to do it myself.

Also taught my first Photoshop Elements class. It was from 6-9 Tuesday and Thursday. I needed a double espresso to make it through, but I had the nicest ladies in the class. It was a wonderful way for me to start with such an understanding group. I look forward to teaching it again, now that I know the timing, etc.

Em had her friend from college come for a few days to visit. Isn't she gorgeous? I hope she enjoyed our town. I was so busy with classes I didn't have a chance to find out. They made it to a Loons game, and those are always fun.

I made it through to round 2 of So You Think You Can Scrap Contest. Round 2 layouts should be posted this weekend. Stop in and vote for the best layout, even if it's not mine! Just vote.

Have a great weekend, and say hi if you visit the blog!

Rumor Control

2007-07-18T10:27:00.000-04:00

No, I am not the Michigan scrapper picked for BHG. I WISH! LOL. I've had a few emails today saying I was mentioned on the smack blog. My news is not at that level (DT for a major mag), but it is at MY level, and I'm really excited! I'll spill one secret soon, and another to follow. But, if you really think I should be on BHG, go ahead and call Melissa Inman and tell her. ;)

Thank goodness it's over.

2007-07-13T21:20:00.000-04:00

This week, that is. One word - BUSY. But it was all fun too, so I'm not complaining. Jenna had her big "friends" birthday for the first time. Em planned the whole thing, and it had a "Luau" theme. We bought grass skirts, leis, and visors (which they decorated) for the kids. They looked so cute! There were 8 kids, two babies, 4 adults, and 2 (almost) teens. It was a full house, but I appreciated the help. It went SO FAST, and while we were busy, it wasn't too rushed until the end when I realized that there were only 10 minutes left for cake and ice cream. OOPS! We did the limbo, played musical beach towels to the soundtrack to Lilo and Stitch, and did a pinata, which came apart at the hanger, forcing us to hang it upside down. Then the stupid thing wouldn't break. It was hilarious!

We went back to the lake to look at cabins this afternoon. Nothing is really jumping out at us, which is OK because we're still in the "thinking about it" phase. I'd love a cottage for the summer, provided I have internet access. How spoiled am I? I know, I know.

I have a few scrapping secrets, but I'm not ready to divulge them just yet. It's been a great summer with guest gigs and such. I've been approached with a few new opportunities, and that makes me feel really good. If someone knows me from my pages, well, how cool is that? I'm not a networking kind of gal . . . I don't know a lot of people in the biz, and that's just fine. I still have modest success by staying under the radar. I am in the So You Think You Can Scrap contest sponsored by Scrapper's Bliss. There will be voting starting some time this weekend. I have to be honest, I'm not crazy about the voting part. I'm not comfortable campaigning for votes, but this contest has the current DT giving input, so that's cool. We will also post pages without names, which makes it a touch more anonymous. It's fun to try these different styles, although I'm afraid of a few of them. Hopefully I stick around for a while and get some pages done. I also did two pages for the BasicGrey Pub Calls blog. They are the last two on page 3. Another challenge to keep my mojo going. Not my best stuff, but OK.

Let's see. What else. I had two Curriculum Development meetings this week for 6 hours. It's funny to think school now. My brain is on summer mode, and it took me the first hour of our meeting to switch over to "teacher mode." It gets harder and harder to do each year. I also met for dinner with my cousins, and say Debbie who lives in California. She is the cousin I resemble, and she cracks me up. Family is such a cool thing. Also took Jenna to Chuck E Cheese for her actual birthday. She is going to think that birthdays are week-long affairs. BIG MISTAKE, I know. Bill's Uncle Fred came home from vacation today, so all is right in his world again. He's been to his house twice already. Again, family. It's a good thing! I'm in the midst of removing wallpaper in our entryway so we can paint. Nothing says fun like scraping off wallpaper, I tell ya!

And for the most embarrassing new development in my small little life . . . I am addicted to Webkinz. I love playing the games, especially Goober's Lab, and picking out the rooms. How sad is THAT?

Peace out!

Where is the time going?

2007-07-09T12:57:00.000-04:00

I seriously feel that time is slipping away too quickly. My summer is just flying by! Makes me sad. Let's see what's new. We went looking at cabins on a lake this weekend. It's eventually what we want to do, and right now it's a buyer's market in our area. So it doesn't hurt to look. I'd love a place on the water, and we found a couple that have some promise. We have decided we want a cabin, rather than something that looks like a house. I don't need another home . . . I want a getaway.

Took Jen to the spray park twice in the last couple of days. It's been HOT HOT HOT. We also had Hayley and Jenna's bday party here yesterday. The family party, that is. The friend birthday party is later this week. Should be fun! We got her this Groovy Girls bike. She called it "super cool!" Now that's high praise when you're 5!

I have a kink in my shoulder that has been wearing me down the last few days. It spasms, and I can barely move. Last night was HORRIBLE. I could barely move. I'm taking meds, but they are wearing me out. Or is it the pain wearing me out? Or is it the heat? I don't know. Let's just say I'm worn out, 'kay?

Good news - I made the first cut on the So You Think You Can Scrap? contest at Scrappers Bliss. I need a challenge . . . something to keep me going. So this is my attempt at it.

OK, it's nap time. For me. Jenna doesn't need one, I do. Hopefully I will get to posting some recent pics on my photo blog today. Wish me luck!

Checking in!

2007-07-05T08:20:00.000-04:00

Went to the fireworks last night. It was odd weather . . . the temps were low (78) but the humidity was high, which made the blankets the girls were sitting on and our jackets feel wet. But the festivities were fun, and we did sparklers when we got home. How weird that today is Thursday when yesterday felt so much like a weekend. I'm putting some fireworks pics up on my photo blog, if you're interested! Have a great, um, oh yeah! Thursday!

Here is some cool news!

2007-07-03T09:06:00.000-04:00

I was the guest designer for the month of July at Scrap Supply. I had so much fun working with Debi and Linda, and everyone was so kind. Thanks for choosing me, Wendy! Here is a copy of the newsletter with my summer projects.

Also, just finished my July kit from A Million Memories. Fun, beautiful colors. I am so drawn to red right now, where I never have liked red in the past. (Don't ask me the color of my minivan.) I got the layouts done on Friday night while cropping with Jami. I think I'll do another layout from this kit . . . I still have pics that work perfectly with these papers.

OK. Off to mom's for coffee. Peace out!

Another summer day . . .

2007-06-30T21:10:00.001-04:00

Have I mentioned I'm a fan? Yes? Well, let me do that again. I LOVE IT! Waking up late, naps in the afternoon, watching TV late into the evening . . . simple things really, but I can't do those simple things when school is in session. I don't have the time nor the energy. I love my job, but the reality is it takes a lot out of me.

Let's see. Thursday was Jen's last day of swimming. Her main teacher is an old friend of Em's, and Jenna absolutely loved her! She is a water baby, just like her big sister.

On Friday I took Jenna to story time at Dow Gardens. They do such a nice job, and after the story the kids get to work in the garden, watering the plants or weeding. They also had a scavenger hunt through the kids area, and Jen had a blast. She got mad at me when it was time to go, and off she ran. And ran. And ran. Until I couldn't see her anymore. Yep, the little scoundrel made a run for it. And while I can laugh about it now, I was in a complete and utter PANIC. What if she took off and hid somewhere in the gardens themselves? What if she fell in the water? These are the thoughts that were racing through my head as I made the long walk back to the main gates. And there she was, getting a drink, as if nothing had happened. My blood was BOILING. She got sent to her room for a good while, that's for sure.

Last night went to a crop and got four layouts done with the July kit from A Million Memories. I was surprisingly productive, probably because the kit was so gorgeous! Made a mini book while Jenna was napping today, and need to scan and send it.

Tonight we went for a bike ride out to the nature center again. Jen fell off the tandem bike on our excursion to see deer and turkey. Bill made a sharp turn, and down she went. She fussed for a while, but got back on the bike. We found these blackberries and had a little snack. The cows weren't out, and Jen was bummed, because she spent time collecting apples in her shirt. We also walked down by the water and looked for clam shells.

OK, Jen is fighting for the computer. Her aunt bought her a Webkinz, and she is addicted.

Have a great Saturday. I'm off for a glass of wine and to read my book. It's The Pact by Jodi Picoult. Sad. Anyone read it? If so, you know what I mean.

Peace out!

A Blog Mystery

2007-06-28T20:08:00.000-04:00

I have two sites that are linking to my blog, both French. I know this because I have a tracker on it. Even though I took three years of French, I can't get into the sites that are linking to me. Any french-speaking bloggers want to tell me what's going on?

The two sites are: creablabla and creations scrapbooking. TIA!

I've been tagged . . .

2007-06-27T15:38:00.000-04:00

by the fabulous Amy Coose. Here are my answers.

My roommate and I once: Well, that's tricky. Because my only roommates have been family members. I commuted my way through college.

Never in my life have I: gone skydiving. I don't expect that to ever change.

High school was : a bummer for me. I was not involved, and thought it as a waste. Now I teach it. Go figure!

When I'm nervous : I eat. So obviously I'm nervous a lot! LOL!

My hair : is grey. Almost totally. Have I mentioned how much I love my hairdresser?

When I was 5 : I broke my arm. Had a cast, and got heaps of attention, which I loved.

When I turn my head left : my neck hurts. Slept on it wrong, I guess!

I should be : organizing Miss J's 5th bday party. Or scrapping. Or cleaning. Or finishing the laundry. Well, everything else but this.

By this time next year : I will better understand how to take fantastic photos on a more consistent basis.

My favorite aunt is : Aunt Leora. She's a touch eccentric, but has a wonderful heart.

I have a hard time understanding : Why people spend time being nasty to each other. Where is the entertainment in that? I just don't get it.

You know I like you if : I'm going to quote Amy here, and say "trust me, you'll totally know it if I don't." Seriously, I can find something to like in ALMOST anyone.

My ideal breakfast is : Coffee, my yogurt bites bran flakes, followed by more coffee. Did I mention coffee?

If you visit my home town : you'll wonder why I never left! Seriously, it's a cool town for family and for education, my two biggest passions. So it's perfect for me!

If you spend the night at my house : you'd better not be allergic to cats, because I have two that love to sleep with whomever will let them.

My favorite blonde is : Miss Jenna

My favorite brunette is : Miss Emily

The animal I would like to see flying besides birds : Well, this is a tough one. How about pigs?

I shouldn't have been : anything in the medical profession. Weak, I am.

Last night I: had a horrible stomach ache and laid in bed reading and complaining. Maybe I should have lied here?

A better name for me would be : Kelly. I've always felt I would have been a better Kelly than a Kay.

I've been told I look like : Well, dh always thought I looked like Jodi Foster in my younger days. Now? My sisters, I suppose!

If I could have any car, it would be: a minivan. A new one, that is clean! I was so against the van, and now it's what I would get again. I don't care too much about cool cars, (obviously!)

Now to tag some peeps . . .

Jami
Kim
Tonia

Hey Tuesday Fans!

2007-06-26T07:56:00.000-04:00

I'm trying to sound positive here. Not really feeling it. It's a blah morning. Didn't sleep well at all last night . . . knees and back hurt from running. And maybe, just maybe, the lack of sleep can be attributed to the iced mocha I drank after dinner. Getting old is the pits!

It is my favorite time of the year TV-wise. Yep, you guessed it, Wimbledon. I absolutely LOVE tennis. Obsessed may be the better word here. I'm much calmer when I watch tennis, as opposed to hockey where I yell like a madwoman (Go Wings!). It will be on my TV until the final day. That's for certain. I can't wait to see what happens with the Henman/Moya match.

Went to WalMart and picked up a picture I had printed to poster size. It turned out GREAT! And for $11, you can't go wrong! I am making a wall of pictures, black frames, white mats, b&w pics. It's taking me way too long to decide on the pictures, but eventually it will get done. I also need to back up some pics, and clean out my external drive. It's full, so I know I have duplicates somewhere.

Dishwasher died today. That's just great. I've been saving for scraproom furniture, and now this. DANG. But what are you going to do?

Em comes home from Colorado today, and that's exciting! I know she'll have a lot of pictures to share and stories to tell. It's back to school for her next week for a summer class. Bummer, no?

OK, off to face the day. Did I mention I'm tired?