Come to momma!

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

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.

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?

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!

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!

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 . . .

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

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 . . .

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!

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?

Summer Weekend

I just love the pace of summer. Have I mentioned this before? I stll have a to-do list that's a mile long, which is distracting at best. I always imagine I will have more time than I actually do in the summer. Time to kick back, read, lay in the sun . . . but nope. It's laundry, dishes, entertaining Miss J, etc. But still, there is a state of mind, a really being in the moment, that I cherish. When J wakes up in the morning, I can lay with her, and talk about her day, and really BE there. I love that. More than you can imagine.

So here are my big weekend happenings.

Coffee at moms
Trip to Amish furniture places in Clare looking for scrap furniture
8-mile bike ride to the Nature Center
Trip to the Fun Zone
Finished a "scrappy" project

Not much, eh? I like that! LOL!

My local camera shop owner called and asked if I would like to teach some Photoshop classes. How cool is that? (Thanks, Allison!)

I decided to join the contest "So You Think You Can Scrap" at Scrapper's Bliss. I haven't a snowball's chance you know where, but am welcoming the challenge. It will keep me scrapping, when I'm not really making the time for it like I should. This will keep me going.
For the contest I needed one altered item, and two layouts. This is my entry. Wish me luck, I'll need it!

Have a great one!

Early Morning Mojo

So I woke up early today and whipped out a quick layout before Jenna woke up. I just had time to upload it, and up she was. It was pointed out to me just now that it was the "Featured Layout' at Two Peas. How cool is that?

Took Jen shopping today. We went to Birch Run to the Pottery Barn outlet so I could dream of scrap furniture, then to Gymboree. Bought her some new skirts since she is skirt-obsessed. I tell you, she's such a girl! Then I splurged and bought some new shirts at J. Crew. Then we went to Frankenmuth to the bead store to check out the classes they are offering and to look for some inspiration. I want to make something in the worst way, but it's been so long since I've even attempted jewelry. Hopefully this weekend.

Then we went out for pizza for dinner and Jen and Bill are out playing kickball. It's a gorgeous 75 degrees. Feels like Wisconsin to me!

Have a great Friday!

Another pic w/actions

This is from last night at the Gardens with Em and Jen. Em got her to laugh by giving me rabbit ears, which was Jenna's idea. She's a little imp, this one! Hope you like it.

So far a very uneventful day. I'm loving this summer vacation thing. Get up, have coffee and surf the net, wake up Miss J and play for a few hours (today we went to my mom's for coffee) and then off to swim class, lunch, and Jen naps. I've been walk/running during lessons, and can hardly move today. I guess you could say I'm a tad out of shape. OK, more than a tad. A smidge, really.

Em leaves for Colorado tomorrow for her cousin's wedding. It's her first time, and she should have a blast!

OK, off to finish "The Kite Runner." I think I'm probably the last person to read this book, and it's awesome. I'm off to B&N to pick out my next book tonight. So if you have any suggestions for a good summer read, drop them here!

Tuesday news . . .

I did another layout today, before Jenna even woke up! I have been setting my alarm clock for 6 a.m. (which is a 45 minutes later than school days), and I've been waking Jenna up at 7:30 a.m. every day. I'm setting the summer routine, for my sanity. She has the same wake-up, nap, and bedtime every night. So far, so good. Wish me luck!

Crossed a few more items off my endless to-do list. Went running while J was in swim lessons today. Can I just say ouch? I am so out of shape. One step at a time, no?

Went to Dow Gardens, and saw a fantastic performance outside of Center for the Arts. Got NO PICTURES due to a camera/card malfunction. Still stinging from that, don't ya know. Here is a description of Strangefruit "Swoon." See the video. I'll go back, trust me! Very cool.

Have a great Tuesday. Peace.

Happy Father's Day!

And to celebrate, here is a layout of our girls. Speaking of celebrating, I got 4 layouts done already this weekend. It has been so long, and I was seriously worried that I had forgotten how to scrap. Not that any of them are masterpieces, but it's a start! Three are being held back for a surprise in July, and here is one just for me.

We got bill new slippers from Cabela's and a new Garmin GPS for his truck. We'll take it with us on our trip to Columbus and see how it works. He's pretty happy with his gifts. He deserves them, he's a great dad. He and Jenna are outside cleaning the quad.

We're off to my parents for a Father's Day lunch, speaking of excellent fathers. My dad is the best. And while he is stuggling with Parkinson's, he manages to keep a positive attitude. He has had a bad week or so, and we're hoping to get some answers/help from the doctor tomorrow. We chipped in to get him a new lift chair. It's a tall, and I think he'll be able to manage in it better.

Have a great day, and hug a father. They deserve it!

This just in . . .

Miss J is now learning to ride her bike without training wheels. It makes me a little nervous, knowing that there will be spills to follow, but you can't hold them back forever! She giggles non-stop when Bill lets her go. The girl has NO FEAR. You go, girl!

Let the games begin!

Foolishly I signed up for a grad class the first week of summer vacation. What in the heck was I thinking? The good news is 1) it's over and 2) I had some fun teacher friends in the class and I truly enjoyed their company, as well as met some other teachers from our district. All in all, it was a good week. Especially since it's over. LOL.

Yesterday we went to a Detroit Tigers baseball game with a bunch of administrators from Bill's district. It was my first time in the park, and it was a lot of fun! The thing I will remember the most from the game was THE HEAT. The sun was just baking us, to the point where we were seeing stars. The combo of the sun and the mondo daquiri proved interesting. I think I sat in my assigned seat for two total innings. The rest of the time Bill and I wandered around Comerica Park and checked everything out. Then we ate at Fish Bones in Greektown and went to the casino for about a half hour. While I'm not exactly a big gambler (for instance, I wondered where you put the coins), I did win enough to pay the babysitter. It worked out well.

Next on my summer to-do list is to scrap. I think I've forgotten how. Seriously. I don't even know where to begin. So I think I'll get a triple-espresso and try to bust out a layout tonight. Night is normally not my most creative time, but it is summer after all!

Have a great weekend. Peace out!

The Final Countdown

It has been CRAZY BUSY these last few weeks. And while I feel a touch overwhelmed, it's making the time fly by! Last weekend included soccer practice, a soccer game, a graduation party, plus a steak fry dinner with one of Bill's shooting clubs. Crazy busy.

So here is a rare picture of moi. Bill grabbed the camera and snapped Miss J and I. Try not to focus too much on the wrinkles around the eyes. Dang, I look like her grandma! Ah well. Such is life.

Tomorrow the photography group meets for the first time. It's a group of us with SLR's and no idea what we're doing. We're going to use the book "Understanding Exposure" as our guide. I'm looking forward to it.

As far as the end of the year, it's a smooth one. I have such amazing students, and I will miss them. Only one more hour and it's all over. Makes me a touch sad. I was always the girl who cried at the end of the year when school was out, and to be honest I still feel the same way now. I hate goodbyes. Despise them, really. But I'm ready to spend some time with my girls this summer, so it's all good!

Peace!

The New Toy

On this busy weekend we had to go visit Bill's new toy. He bought a quad for hunting, or so the story goes. And once Miss J got on it, it's all she wants to do. For now, the quad is being stored at Bill's uncle's house, and we go visit it from time to time. Which kid looks happier? The jury is out.

Had a great long weekend. Busy, as expected. But visited with a lot of friends and family. What could be better? The alarm did sound MIGHTY early this a.m. though, don't you know? Have a great week!

The pace of summer . . .

is hitting me. You see, during the school year I operate at 90 mph at all times. But summer, sweet summer, I can forget about things like staff meetings and solving rational expressions. I can stop looking at the clock and wondering what I have to do next. Time loses its meaning. It's a good thing. And while it's not OFFICIALLY summer yet, we did get a four-day weekend. I'm practicing for the real thing. Two weeks. Two more weeks until my life is my own again.

Today I spent the day shopping with my sister and Emily. Em is going to Colorado for her cousin's wedding, and she needed a dress. So off we went. Jenna was in daycare so we could shop in peace. We shopped, we had lunch at Don Pablos, we laughed, we had fun. No sense of time. Em and I then took Jen to see Shrek 3 when we got home, and then took her to get a Happy Meal (since we were both still full.) Then I edited photos for my mom's mother's day present, which was a digital frame. It took a while, but I'm sure she'll love it. And here I am, still awake, after unloading/loading the dishwasher, doing three loads of laundry, and picking up the house. It's funny how much energy I have when I have time for myself. Practicing for summer. The big warm-up, if you will.

More plans for the weekend, including dinner with Bill's aunt and uncle, drinks with the neighbors, and hopefully some more family time. Did I mention I'm a fan of summer?

Layout is of my girl Em and her friend Em. Ah youth.

Our weekend

has been CONSUMED by this little diva and her dance recital. Friday night? rehearsal from 6-11:30. (Thankfully her act was early and we got to leave early.) Then yesterday soccer in the a.m., then the first performance from 2-5. Today the show is from 3-6. So much for a relaxing weekend! This life of showbiz is exhausting, I tell ya! ;) She did "Take Me Out to the Ballgame, and she remembered the whole routine! YIPPEE! If you only knew how many times I had to drag her to tap lessons, you'd know what an accomplishment this is. Pictures were only allowed for rehearsal, and I was so far away they aren't the best. But you get the idea!

Happy Mother's Day!

Here are my girls. Could I love them any more? I don't think so. It's so nice having Emily home, and Jenna is jsut thrilled to have someone to play with. Spent the afternoon at my mom's, having a great lunch and enjoying the company of my family. Came home and took a nap, and worked the "it's mother's day and I don't have to work" angle. Hard. I mean, it's one day, right? I'm allowed!

Just got a call from the daycare provider that her dd is sick, and I've exhausted every option as far as who could watch the bean. No dice. So it looks like I'm home for the day tomorrow. Off to write sub plans. Hope all of you mothers had a wonderful day!

Peace!

It's been a while!

This picture was taken last night at Dow Gardens as a storm approached. We made it to the car just before the downpour!

I've been busy. Too busy. Last weekend I had absolutely no free time. There was something every minute. I did go to Dow Gardens and took pictures of one of my students who knew I was a "wannabe" as a photographer. I had fun, and she looked beautiful. A few of those pictures are on my photography blog.

Also visited a friend in the hospital, did a make-and-take at my LSS for four hours, and went to Jenna's soccer game. I know that being busy makes the time go faster, but I'm hoping to slow down soon.

I'm getting SO EXCITED for summer. I love having time to myself. I'll say it again, but teaching is the best of both worlds. I get to be the working woman, and the SAHM at the same time. I also realize how tough and rewarding both of those roles are. Keeping Jenna entertained is a full-time job. But I love the pace of summer, especially compared to the pace of the life of a high school teacher.

In scrapping news, I am a guest designer for the kit club A Million Memories for July, August, and September. That will be fun. I loved designing for kit clubs, but it gets so tough during the school year. A guest gig is perfect. Also, got a layout picked up by Scrapbook Trends for a Holiday idea book. Still haven't gotten my PC layouts done for this month, and they're due tomorrow. Wish me luck!

Have a great Thursday, and say hi if you visit this blog!

Peace out, rabbit!

Fabulous Friday

Today was a day off from school. What a blessing. It is so hard this time of year to be a teacher. It's hard to keep the kids interested/motivated ... especially if you're not feeling that way yourself. I do love my kids though, and that gets me through.

Spent the day doing not much at all, and feel a smidge guilty about that. I did get two layouts done for Sassafras Lass, and that was fun. The papers and colors are so cheerful and happy. Got the new rub-ons, and they are AWESOME! Check them out. Seriously.

If you're the praying type, please send one up for my friend Mark. He is going through a pretty major health struggle right now, and it's got me down in the dumps. You take your health for granted, and one day, POOF. Major upset. I'll visit him in the hospital this weekend, and I know I'll feel better once I do.

Have a great weekend! And check out my Photo Blogfor the cutest little puppy ever.

Peace out!

Take me out to the . . .

ballgame! We have a new ball diamond for a minor league team called the Loons, and today Bill suggested we go see a game. After all of the sickies in our house, it sounded like a great idea. It was a beautiful day, and I have a farmer's tan like you wouldn't believe. The Loons won, and here is Miss J with the Mascot.

Another day in paradise!

Long week. Jenna is SICK with allergies. Really bad. Even had her to the Dr. to check her ears, which are mercifully clear. So far. TO make it just that much more special, I got sick too. Will the fun never end? It's just pesky, really. I'm not that bad.

Jenna started soccer this week. Sick and all. Poor kid hasn't the faintest idea how to play, but you've got to start somewhere, right? Her coach is so patient. Saint, I tell you! I'm happy it's going to be a good experience for her.

Went to visit Em last night at school. Took a load home from her dorm, as she starts to prepare for finals. We took her out to dinner, and did a little shopping. We also drove by the house she will live in next year. It was so nice to see her. Another few weeks, and she'll be home!

Finished some deadlines, and scrapped for some calls today. Not my best work, but forward movement. That's a good thing, no? Also got the full version of Photoshop, and have been reading up on how to use it. See my photography blog for a quick picture.

Beautiful weather. Finally. Maybe spring is here after all!

Have a great weekend!

Get your head in the game!

Went to MHS's production of High School Musical. I knew so many of the actors/actresses in this play from teaching, and I was so incredibly PROUD of my kids. You know, high school students get a lot of bad press. We don;t spend nearly enough time talking about all that they do right. And seeing the talent, the poise, the pride that these kids have in this production . . . well, it's why I teach. I call myself lucky to have the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people through my job. Blessed, really. Jenna was so geeked that she knew some of the actors/actresses. It was magical. Go see a high school drama production next chance you get. You'll see the good in today's kids. I promise you.

Taught at my LSS today. They were having a birthday bash, and I did 3 hours of make & takes. I am getting a cold, and by the time my three hours were up, I was exhausted. Too much so to shop. (GASP.) I have some DT deadlines to meet, and hope that I can get them done tomorrow, as well as go to a birthday party for my sister, dad, and BIL. It's been a busy weekend!

Hope y'all have a wonderful weekend. And don't be freaked out by the picture of J. It's a funny one, no?

Snow? Again?

You have got to be kidding me. We are under a winter storm warning. In April. If I have ever wanted the aid of some mood altering drugs, (think valium), it would be NOW. UGLY weather, to be sure. And it looks like this cold snap will be hanging on until the end of April. Good times. Here is a quick shot out the front door taken after school. And I do mean quick, because DANGIT, it's cold!

The photo was taken with my new lens to replace the kit lens I broke while on vacation. It s a Canon 28-105. We'll see if I like it! I also ordered the full-blown version of Photoshop today. I want to utilize actions, and with my new computer I feel it's time to fill it up with more stuff! LOL!

In the scrapping world, no time lately. I have deadlines, and will need to work hard this weekend, but for now, no mo. I did get an email requesting a layout for Simple Scrapbooks magazine. That's a first for me! And I'm thrilled!

Hope you're having a warm Wednesday. Hope we get one soon.

Happy Easter!

We had a great Easter today at my mom's house. I feel so fortunate that my family is all in town, and we were all together except for my nephew who had to work today. Jen was into giving Emily "bunny ears" for pictures, and here is Em getting her back. Hope you had a great Easter as well. Now back to the grindstone!

My Girl

Is home for Easter. Every Thursday night Courtney, Em's friend from high school, comes over and watched Grey's with me. Last night Em made it too! And because we didn't have school today Jen stayed up as well. It was a total girls' night.

Today I took Jen to a coworker's house who has a huge egg hunt every Easter. 1000 eggs. I helped fill them on Wednesday night. I can't believe she has done it by herself in the past. What a job! And it SNOWED, so the hunt was done in the snow. Have I mentioned my hatred of the snow and cold? Serious loathing. That's all I'm sayin'.

Em and I went over some calculus when I got home. She has a pretty brutal schedule with math/bio as her major and minor. Poor girl! Seems all she does is study. She got her haircut today, and I managed to snap this picture of my beauty. She's such a good kid. I can't even tell you.

We all went out to dinner, Em's pick. We had fun. Miss J seems to be getting yet ANOTHER cold, so she's been a treat. A little touchy, a little mischievious. Tonight when EM went out with her friends, Jen cried. She hates to see Em leave now. Poor babe.

Worked a bit on a deadline. I'm working ahead, thank goodness, because the mojo is a no-go. WOW. I hope I snap out of this soon!

Have a great Friday!

A Rainy Tuesday

And I'm home for the day. Jenna's caregiver needed the day off, and I have some personal days to burn by the end of the school year. The closer we get to the end, the harder it is to take time off. So here I sit. Got up at my normal time, printed pictures, and did two layouts. Now what? Here I sit, with nothing to do. Laundry is done, did the grocery shopping. Don't have a good book to read. Too yucky to play outside. Can you say BORED? Jenna is coughing again, and just hanging out coloring. Good times.

So these are the two layouts I did with the new papers from Sassafras Lass. It was fun to scrap again, but I'm waiting for a burst of mojo to hit. Any time. So if you see it, send it my way!

I'm out.

Butterflies again!

It was amazingly warm today. So off we went to Dow Gardens to see the butterflies. The building was so hot, I was having Florida flashbacks. WOWSA. So we didn't spend a ton of time in there. There were so many butterflies compared to two weeks ago, and the flowers in the gardens were really starting to bloom! There were some ducks hanging out in the water, and we sat and watched them for quite a while. Maybe Michigan isn't so bad after all!

And we're back!

From sunny Florida. What a dose of reality to come back to cold, grey, Michigan. I can't even begin to tell you what a DOWNER that is. I'm not sure I'll ever get warm again. I vowed before I left for warmer climes that I would wear flip-flops every day from now on. Now that I hear that snow is predicted for next week, I've had to rethink the wisdom of said plan.

Here are the highlights of the trip:

Disney is so magical. And seeing that magic through Jenna's eyes, well, that was amazing.

The magic of Disney extend to the convenience. Everyone is so kind, and there is so much to see. And the way they get you through the rides, your meals, and into the parks . . . I marvel at all of the planning that goes into this.

Weather was BEAUTIFUL every single day. Warm and beyond in the p.m., so we spent the afternoons in the pool (after a nap, of course!)

The family we traveled with was amazing. Everyone got along, and the girls put up with Jenna so well.

The place that we stayed was great! There was a pool (lanai) in the home, as well as a community pool with an awesome slide. In the clubhouse was a small movie theater, a gym, and an arcade/gameroom. There was also a play area, as well as volleyball, tennis, and basketball courts. I was skepical staying off Disney property for the first time, but it was well worth the five-minute drives to the park. I didn't feel as trapped as I did on the resort itself.

I got to see my good friend Maddy and her adorable kiddos. She made a long drive and we had dinner and went back to our place so the kids could play and swim. The time went too quickly, and poor Mads had to go to work the next day, but it was definitely a highlight for me. Love you, girl!

The lowlights:

My first reaction in Disney was of sadness. I missed Emily. It was my first time in Disney without her, and I felt that loss the whole trip. I would say, "Emily would love this!" Some day, my girl, we'll go back.

The sun. Not to sound contradictory, but the warmth of the burning sun got a smidge annoying. I'm not sure the burn on my head (the part) will ever heal. I swear I haven't had this much pain before. Note to self, BUY A HAT! I also got a nice case of hives from overexposure.

I dropped my camera. And not a slow, graceful fall, but a crash onto the pavement. That broke my lens. I can't even tell you the level of sick I felt. Serious pain. I realized that I have an unhealthy attachment to my camera. The camera itself works, so I really can't complain. And I had another lens with me, so I didn't miss a shot.

The screaming kids in the park, and the parents snapping at each other. It cracked me up, how we spend all of this time preparing for the perfect trip, then spend it cranky, hot, and snapping at each other. Such is the fun of travel! (Think National Lampoon Vacation. How true is this?)

Jenna got a migraine yesterday. I'm sure that's what it is. And I can't tell you the sick feeling I get in my stomach that she will need to deal with these too. She laid on the couch first thing in the morning, writhing in pain. She then threw up in the rental car on the way to the airport, then fell asleep all the way to the airport. When she woke up she was fine.

As we got on the shuttle from the rental car place to the airport, I realized Jenna's carry-on bag was missing. Bill took care of the loading of the bags while Jen was sick. OOPS! So I called the complex where we were staying, only to find out they couldn't get into the house where we were staying. Twenty minutes and three calls later, it is being shipped via UPS. Should be a hefty little charge.

Our flight appeared to be taking off on time (1:30 p.m.) and first-class loaded the plane. Then the dreaded announcement. "Maintenance problem. Could be up to four hours before it's fixed." Oh great. After about an hour, we noticed everyone on the phone, and a family near us suggested we call NWA and try to get on another flight. We could get Jenna and I on one flight, (6:00), and Bill on another (8:00). After much hagling, we all got seats on the 6:00 flight, with no promise of luggage since the other flight was rescheduled for 7:00 a.m. today. When we showed up at that gate after an entire day at the airport, we found that this flight was also delayed. By an hour and a half. Then we had a two-hour drive home from the airport. I thought I was going to have a breakdown. But we made it home at 12:30 a.m. Barely.

All in all, it was an amazing trip. Now I have three days of laundry to do. Good times!

See pictures of the trip on the photo blog.

It's almost here!

Our vacation, that is. I took the day off to take Jenna on a field trip to a butterfly exhibit. I wish I would have had more time to walk around and take pictures, but with 15+ preschoolers, it was a tad crazy. I was reminded once again why I teach high school. Jenna was the butterfly whisperer. She walked around with this little guy for a while.

So now I get to finish prepping/packing for the trip. Jenna's Gymboree box arrived today (thank goodness), so we're almost ready. And it is unseasonably warm right now, which is a blessing after the winter. I am reminded on days like today why I live in Michigan.

It looks like I'll get to see my friend Maddy while on vacation, which I am so happy about. I love this girl, and it's been way too long!

Emily got accepted into the college of education at State. That's good news! I just wish the teaching market was looking better. It's a bleak picture for Michigan schools.

In scrapbooking news, I was approached to be a guest designer for a few months on a kit club called A Million Memories, and I gladly said yes! I've been missing my kit work, and could use a shot in the arm to get me going. Without deadlines, I don't make the time to scrap. So this will be cool!



Peace out, peeps!

Busy Busy Busy.

Trying to get ready for our trip. It was a crazy weekend. I started yesterday a.m. with a pedicure. Bill always gets me one for xmas, and I use it before our spring break. Then I worked all day on my ProvoCraft layouts. Once I finished them, I needed to scan, send them, and upload all directions on the website. Next I had to package them up to send out, as well as fill out the FedEx forms. I also got all of the paperwork done on the MM layouts, and got those ready to drop off at the post office tomorrow.

Today I got up early and headed out to WalMart. I wanted to get some things for our vacation, and was out of almost all cleaning products. Doesn't take long for that grocery bill to add up! Got some sunscreen, and a cute luggage set for Jenna. Also a new 2 Gig Compact Flash card for my camera. Plus enough food to last for the week, without wasting any. Yeah, it was an expensive little trip.

When I got home, I put away the groceries. And then realized I have far too many unidentifiable leftovers in the refrigerator. While rinsing them out I realized the dishwasher was full, OF COURSE. So I got the kitchen done, and moved on to some packing.

First, I did Jenna's suitcase. I made a list of the last minute additions, and have a sizable order coming from Gymboree. I had some Gymbucks to use up, and feel compelled to order away. It's a sickness, really.

Then off to my room. I packed what I could in the small carry-on (shampoo, sunscreen, etc.) and made ANOTHER list of what I need to add. Then I started in on my summer clothes. And as I got into it, I realized I need to switch over my closet anyway, so why not just do that now? Two hours, and 6 huge garbage bags full of stuff to donate to Salvation Army later, I started washing the stuff I need to pack.

When I realized I couldn't find a particular pair of shoes, I went after the coat closet. WHAT A MESS. But after an hour of work, it looks pretty good. And no, I never did find the shoes that got me into that mess.

Next I paid the bills, and bought our Disney World tickets online. I also looked at confirming our reservations.

And now, I'm pooped. Really worn out. But I made great strides in getting ready for this trip. It's so hard for me to get anything done during the school week. Mondays are staff meetings, Tuesdays are tap lessons for Jen, and Thursdays are Grey's night.

OK, enough of this boring post. If you made it this far, I applaud you.

More Pub news . . .

after a long, dry spell, I just got a request for 4 more layouts for the upcoming Memory Makers 601 layouts. That makes NINE. Which just about knocks out my "Book of 10" layouts that haven't been seen. Which means I have more work to do! I do hate holding back layouts though. Drives me nuts. Sharing is the fun part for me. But I have to say nine requests feels pretty darn good, especially after my mojo-less spell. Busy week. Deadlines, and no time. Hopefully I'll get something done this weekend, when I can finally catch my breath. Off to bed. I'm pooped!

A Sad Week, Indeed.

There was a shooting at a neighboring school this week. Our town has two Class A high schools, and it happened at the one across town. Very high socioeconomic status. Not high risk in the least, and still it happened. A young man shot his girlfriend, then himself. It was such a shocking announcement at school. Before all of the details were known, the only info we had was that a girl was shot. And all I could think of was, what if Emily was a student there? How worried would I be? It turns out that the girl will recover, thank God. I think the thing that is sticking with me this long is how quickly the incident has been forgotten. And that's sad for me. It didn't seem to phase the students at all. And that will keep me up at night for a very long time.

Then parent-teacher conferences last night. Plus we visited the kindergarten classroom where Jen will go to school next year. She had fun, and knew quite a few of the kids from preschool/summer school and the neighborhood. And her teacher seems AMAZING. The perfect kindergarten teacher. What a relief.

In the scrapping world, I got a request for 5 layouts for an upcoming idea book from Memory Makers. It has been a long time since I have submitted anything for pub, so I'm glad I took the time. And I really like some of my pages I got done last weekend at the all-day crop. I hope to do a little shopping tomorrow for some new goodies. That ought to help the mojo.

I hope you have a great Friday night. I plan on hitting the hay by 9:00 p.m. I'm emotionally drained.

Peace out.