TRUELY AMBER

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-19T08:26:00.000-08:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-12T19:06:00.000-08:00

The answer...

2011-01-06T19:11:00.000-08:00

My siblings:My sister Kim

My brothers Mike and Chris

(Yes! I am standing on the fireplace!)

I apparently didn't get ANY of the tall gene!

What the heck!

Hello..Hello is anyone there?

2011-01-05T21:18:00.001-08:00

I may have under estimated this whole Project 365.

I never, NEVER, never thought Project 365 would

be so...

CONSUMING!

I didn't mean to let this blog fall to the curb.

I will try to be better in 2011.

Key word: try

Without further ado...

Christmas in Idaho 2010

Can you guess which are my siblings?

Hint: I have 3 in this photo collage..

Sketchy Thursday 9.16

2010-09-21T22:28:00.000-07:00

Sketchy Thursday 9.16 Sketch:My take on the sketch:
I just finished the lastest sketch..
The jury is still out on this page...
I'm not sure if I like it.
What do you think?

9.9 Sketchy Challenge

2010-09-15T20:05:00.001-07:00

Here is Sketchy Thursday Sketch 9.9:

My take on the sketch:

Guess what?

2010-09-09T20:46:00.001-07:00

I'm a Sketchy Thursday Fave!

I can't believe it! Go on.. go check it out..
See for yourself.

Sketchy Thursday 9.02

2010-09-07T17:56:00.000-07:00

I'm back with another GREAT Sketchy Thursday Sketch:

Sketch 9.02

Here is my take on the sketch (Pre-Grape AMP):

I'll be back soon with another layout soon..

Lessons learned this weekend...

2010-09-06T20:31:00.000-07:00

How was your three day weekend? Mine was good! I learned a lot this weekend. Friday night I learned that it is not always good to drink a full can of Grape AMP while scrapping. I unfortunately learned it makes me SUPER giggly and maybe slightly stupid and possible not as productive as I thought I was. Another point in case: I am driving home from crop when I notice the car next to me. I look over and see a girl staring at me. I think to myself, 'You want to race me?' (What the heck?) In case anyone was wondering this went on the whole way home and I won every challenge not to mention I was up till well after 2 in the morning. Lesson Learned: Grape Amp may be my personal kryponite. I'm just saying.

Saturday Lesson: I learned after putting eye drops into Dave's eyes that the product should be called 'B----y Sting drops' not Clear Eyes.

Sunday's Lesson: When the rocky road fudge you bought in Tombstone the day before goes missing my hubby may have eaten it. hmmm..

Monday's Lesson: I am not a Monday person and I should have every Monday off to deal with it.

Tomorrow I will be back with the latest Sketchy Thursday Sketch! Don't worry it was pre-AMP..

Big News!

2010-09-01T21:27:00.000-07:00

I have decided to participate with a friend in what I like to call torture 365! No, Just kidding! I have agreed and will be taking part in project 365 'take a picture a day for a year', no really I agreed to it. I have started another blog for just this project. I hope you will stop by once in awhile and leave me a comment.. Encourage me to keep shuttering away and even give me some critique too! You can find me at Project 365. Don't worry though, I will still be posting at Truely Amber with scrapbook pages, everyday life and whatever else tickles my fancy.. Yeah I said it!

So without further ado, I have another layout to share with you. The layout is based around an old Sketchy Thursday layout. I never got to post it because I couldn't decide on a title. Right? It's not like the title I used was difficult! Oh well, maybe next time I should just go with the obvious!

Friends

2010-08-31T18:43:00.000-07:00

I told you I'd be back.

...........

This is a layout of my hubby and a childhood friend. Her nickname is 'Little Colleen' She was nice enough to drive from Virginia Beach to DC to site see with us. We had an amazing time and were able to see a lot with her. I love this photo of them in front of the Museum of American History.

Well I am off for now..

Sketchy Thursday 8.26

2010-08-30T18:35:00.000-07:00

I'm back with a new Sketchy Thursday's Sketch! I can't believe how hard this sketch was for me. I do love the end result but I can not tell you how many times it took me to place the circles. Ha! I am off to do another page.

My layout:

See you tomorrow with another layout and possibly better lighting?

Word Prompt: Illuminate

2010-08-29T19:31:00.000-07:00

Word Prompt: Illuminate

More to come tomorrow..

Word Prompt: Orient

2010-08-28T15:47:00.000-07:00

Word Prompt: Orient
I used the adjectival term Oriental meaning eastern.
This is a photo of Chinese Paper Cuts.
Paper-cut is a picture cut out on a paper with scissors.
It is absolutely beautiful...

Word Prompt: Ethereal

2010-08-23T20:59:00.001-07:00

Word Prompt: Ethereal

Word Prompt: Raw

2010-08-08T17:53:00.000-07:00

Word Prompt: Raw

Word Prompt: Shapely

2010-08-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

Word Prompt: Shapely

Do you ever have one of those days???

2010-07-27T19:27:00.000-07:00

You ever have one of those days...

Or in my case... a week, where things just don't pan out right.

Case in point

(I went to work today with one black shoe

and one brown shoe on..)

Yeah, it's been one of those weeks and it is only TUESDAY! Yikes!

Sunday's Creative Word Prompt

2010-07-25T19:54:00.000-07:00

Sunday's Creative Word Prompt: Naked

(Court of Neptune's Fountain in front of the Library of Congress)

A few pictures from D.C.

2010-07-22T21:03:00.001-07:00

Word Prompt: Tradition

2010-07-18T20:15:00.000-07:00

Word Prompt: Tradition

For the last 4 years, Dave and I have a little tradition of passing this paper candle back and forth. When I say passing, I really mean we hide it from one another whether it be a sock drawer, underwear draw, suit case or mail. We do it. It's a crazy tradition but it's our tradition.

Word Prompt: Connect

2010-07-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

Word Prompt: Connect

Sketchy Thursday August Guest Design Challenge

2010-07-13T20:29:00.000-07:00

Sketchy Thursday August Guest Design Team Challenge:
Here is the sketch

Here is my take on the sketch minus the handmade embellishment.

(I forgot and had already taken the photo. Oh-well maybe next time)

Word Prompt: Denim

2010-07-10T20:19:00.000-07:00

Word Prompt: Denim

Pop Art:

Word Prompt: Open

2010-06-27T20:11:00.000-07:00

Today's word prompt is 'open'. Lately it seems like every time one of these are open I get nothing else done. I try and try not to let them affect me but I can't help it. I just can't put the darn things down. This is not what I originally had in mind when I saw this word prompt but I couldn't help but think this was more appropriate!

......

Summer Solstice Burton Barr Central Library

2010-06-21T20:00:00.000-07:00

A little after 12:30 pm (Solar noon on this particular day) people at the Burton Barr Central Library in downtown phoenix watched as sunshine flooded the west wall and lit up the tops of the columns like 'flames' atop of the candle-like columns. It was not what I would have considered a 'phenomenon' event. To be honest, I didn't see it. I was really kind of miffed because I thought I had missed the whole event. I had to go back to work and jump on line to see what I was suppose to be seeing. Luckily I had taken photos without really knowing that I had captured the summer solstice. Note to self: Do a little more research before rushing off to see a 'Summer Solstice'.

Here is what the 'flames' atop of the candle-like columns look like.

Do you see it?

Day Thirteen: Smile

2010-06-18T18:32:00.001-07:00

Day Thirteen: Smile

Today is the last day for Creativity Boot Camp.

I have really enjoyed doing the daily word prompts.

I may have to randomly pick words from a

dictonary to keep the creative juices flowing.

By the way, if you are at all interested, starting Sunday June 27th Life Set to Words will be giving a weekly creative prompt with a weekly post were you can link your creations too. There will be a new creative prompt every Sunday Morning.

I can't wait. See you soon!

Day Twelve: Smooth

2010-06-17T20:25:00.000-07:00

Day Twelve: Smooth

Today's random word prompt is smooth. I am feeling pretty good. Pretty, Pretty good! I was able to find a limestone sculpture in a park near my house. I immediately fell in love with this sculpture. Something you may not know about me, I use to sculpt in high school, and I love painting pottery. You can ask my family, while they were all hanging out on the beach in Mexico soaking up the rays, I was painting pottery on the beach. I have a deep love and appreciation for it. I am also very lucky to have a grandma who loves and displays my work in her home. Thanks Grandma! So without further ado, here are my photos for todays word prompt.

Close up:

Another angle:
An overall black and white photo of limestone sculpture.

See you soon!

Day Eleven: Hush

2010-06-16T20:15:00.000-07:00

Day Eleven: Hush

Day Ten: Full Bodied

2010-06-15T20:52:00.000-07:00

Day Ten: Full Bodied

I took a different approach to today's random word prompt. Sorry, no nude black and white photos here and no volunteers! The first thing that came to mind was the painting of 'Venus Giving Birth' when I heard the random word prompt. Venus body is anatomically improbable with her elongated neck and torso. Her pose is impossible, but this is not why she came to mind. She came to mind because when I think of the phrase 'full bodied' I automatically think voluptuous, curvy, and volume. I spared everyone of a really bad full bodied painting and focused on her face. I will let your imagination do the rest.

'Venus giving birth'

Here is my take on the painting:

Water color and ink

I haven't used watercolor in years and clearly need to practice but I am overall pleased with the end result.

Day Nine: Drizzle

2010-06-14T20:12:00.000-07:00

Day Nine: Drizzle

I was pretty impressed with myself last night when I had completed all 8 days. It was short lived! This morning I woke up to find that the next random word prompt was 'Drizzle' and I started to freak out in my head. Drizzle? I live in Arizona, where am I going to get rain? uuuughhh! Then I asked Dave, What do you think when you hear the word 'Drizzle'? And I should have know what was going to come next...

D: Drizzle on my nizzle!

Me: What the hell does that even mean?

D: You don't want to know!

Me: Great!

With all that said, it is amazing I came up with anything at all.

I am calling this next piece

'Drizzle on my nizzle just for him'

(By the way, do you see an eye?)

Black and White of hot carrots with butter 'drizzled' over them.

I'm off to do some water coloring. Wish me luck! I am going to need it!

See you tomorrow!

Creativity Boot Camp

2010-06-13T17:59:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago, I came across a blog called Creativity Boot Camp and I was instantly intrigued with this blog. I love the random word prompts, journaling, and choice of medium. If you have some time to spare, please head over and the check out the site. I love the creativity of the other artist's. With that said, I have chosen to do black and white photography as my medium.

.....

Day Eight: Ornament

My Definition: Ornament in architecture and

decorative detail enhancing a structure.

.....

I love the beauty and grace of what this light once

was and could still be.

Day Seven: Fly

(Do you see the bird in flight?) I love how the bird almost

looks like a ghost. Day Six: Fluid

Day Five: Grow

Day Four: Heavy Metal

Day Three: Multilayer

Day Two: Picnic

Day One: Ivory

(What? I was stuck..)

See you tomorrow!

Sketchy Thursday 6.3

2010-06-07T12:15:00.000-07:00

Sketchy Thursday 6.3 Challenge:

Here is the sketch:

And here is my take on the sketch:

By the way, I love these polariods!

I had these displayed in my cube

for about 9 or 10 years.

......

As I was saying, I love how sweet and innocent

our nephew looks in the first shot,

but in the next shot he is bringing

the 'smack-down' on his uncle!

......

I remember Shoe saying,

"Are you going to help?"

Me: "No, he seems to have it all

under control."

Shoe: "Not him, ME!"

I just laughed and

continued to snap pictures.

WHAT? It was hilarious..

close up:

Paper: Studio Calico-Anthology Collection

Small gray letters: Studio Calico

Large orange letters: SEI

Emblishment: not sure, I won them.

R.I.P. Infiniti G20

2010-06-02T21:13:00.000-07:00

R.I.P. Infiniti G20
That's right, my husband's car decided to bite the dust this last weekend.

Not exactly the ideal time,

but we needed a car and were able to find a deal.

drum roll please....

Here is my husband's new car:

I think it is kind of cool.. I wonder when I get to drive it? hummm..

What will they think of next?

2010-05-07T10:05:00.000-07:00

Fans of White Castle's oniony hamburgers have a new way to indulge without any calorie guilt: a scented candle infused with the burgers' aroma.

The Columbus, Ohio-based fast-food chain this week introduced candles that smell like its slider burgers in a promotion with Autism Speaks. Proceeds from the sale of the $10 candles will benefit the New York-based charity.

The candles resemble a packaged White Castle burger and are being sold at he company's restaurants and on its website. The wax is encased in a ceramic holder that looks like a slider's cardboard sleeve.

.......

What will they think of next?

French fries?

Spaghetti and Meatball?

Sketchy Thursday 4.29

2010-05-05T22:21:00.000-07:00

It may be to late to enter in the latest Sketchy Thursday

Sketch 4.29 Challenge

but at least I completed another sketch!

Here is my take on the sketch:

(Sorry about the quality of photo, but its late and I am tired)

......
Journaling:

You are my hero!

You have wanted to teach since you were a kid.

You have been teaching your entire adult life.

In fact, other than your family, there is nothing

you put more thought, work or soul into.

.........

Well, that's enough for tonight. I think it is time
for me to gather up the boys and go to bed.
Dave is passed out on the couch and
Homer is snoring LOUDLY next to me.
Yep! Time for beddy-bye!

Negative Effects

2010-04-29T11:36:00.000-07:00

Who goes there?

Homer is that you?

Ugggghhh! I promise I will never cut your hair again!
Just playing with the negative effects option on

my camera..

sketchy Thursday 4.22

2010-04-28T07:58:00.000-07:00

Another great Sketchy Thursday Sketch! Here is the Sketch:Here is my take on the sketch:
The border says:
The good, the bad, and the big uh-oh!
I had no idea shaving someones head
could go so wrong in a matter of seconds!
No really! Seconds!
Well one thing is for sure, I am not a hairdresser.
I can scratch that off my list of possible careers!
Sorry Sweetie! At least we know it grows back!
4/2010
..........
Materials:
Paper: Basic Grey
Lettering: Thickers
Ribbon: Green Horned Unicorn
White border: acrylic paint
and some buttons..

Talk-less Thursday

2010-04-22T12:23:00.000-07:00

(The picture is blurry because Homer kept running from me.)

Homer is now sporting a similar haircut to Dave.

Don't you love his 'Grinch' like feet?

Something else kind of funny..

The clippers are missing. hummm...

Sketchy Thursday Challenge 4.8

2010-04-12T11:56:00.000-07:00

Here is the Sketchy Thursday Sketch 4.8 Challenge:

Here is my take:

Paper: Sassafras
Lettering: Thickers
Embellishments: Sassafras
..............................
Here is the Second Chance Challenge Sketch:
Here is my take on the challenge:

Paper: Black bazzill, sassafras
Embellishments: Green Horned Unicorn
Vegetable Garden
Lettering: Basic Gray
.....................................
The next layout is my own.
I know I can't believe it either.
Just thought I would share.

Paper: Sassafras
Lettering: Thickers
............................................

More layouts to come. I was in a hurry and could only get these ones uploaded onto blogger.

I am not...

2010-04-05T20:26:00.000-07:00

I am not a groomer. Ask my dog Homer, if he could talk he would tell you "No".

I am not a Barber or hairdresser. Unfortunately, you can ask my husband and he will tell you "No!"

I have to give a little background info as to why I would even attempt to be a groomer or hairdresser.

...................................................

My husband is head baseball coach for his Junior High baseball team. This is his first year as head coach, he is usually assistant head coach. I am so proud of him! Dave's team consists of 13 players and maybe 5 have ever played junior high baseball before this year. As a way to motivate the team, he said he would shave his head if they won two games. They are 3-0! Yes, they won the first three games to start the season. I think we may have under estimated their baseball skills- they are pretty good!

This weekend my husband had to get his head shaved. He has been going to the same hairdresser for about 5 years now.. Well, she was out for her birthday and I simply suggested I had (A LONG time ago) shaved my husband's head and felt confident that I could do it again. It was going well.

Here is a before picture:

The team wanted a mohawk, but decided a shaved head would be o.k. too. I shaved the sides and some of the top (Not exactly Mr.T but it works) and grab the camera. click! It was still going very well. buzzzzzzzz, b - u - z - z, buuu. Dead! The batteries die. Darn!

Dave with a mohawk:

Have no fear! Dave has another set of clippers and they are fully charged. O.k.

First off, let me start by saying we had a huge, HUGE misunderstanding. When he gave me the clippers I thought he had adjusted the clippers accordingly and he thought I was aware that I needed to adjust them. Let me set the scene, he is sitting on a chair, I am standing right in front of him with the clippers in hand. BUZZ.. Of course, I take the first snip by going straight down the middle. HOLY CRAP! HOLY CRAP! HOLY CRAP! Dave! He jumps off the chair and runs straight for the mirror. He is quiet for about 30 seconds and I hold my breathe the whole time. I am sure it is the quiet before the storm. He didn't scream but he did question me and make it very clear that this was NOT what he had in mind when he agreed to me shaving his head.

And here is the end result:

Sorry Honey! I promise I will NEVER, EVER try to cut your hair again. I will leave it to the professionals.

Note to self: I am not a groomer, barber or hairdresser. And I will probably never live this down. I overheard Dave telling the dog, "Homer you better behave yourself, otherwise mommy is going to give you one of her special haircuts!"

Yep! I am not going to live this down.

My first...

2010-03-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

It was for a great cause.

I painted these two painting for a fundraiser for my friend

Lisa's crop fundraiser.

This is my first painting of a flower ever.

.........................................................

close up of paintings:

Just thought I would share.

M.I.A., but I'm back....

2010-03-21T21:53:00.000-07:00

I have been a little M.I.A. lately, o.k. ALOT

I have been swamped at work, and

feel like I have lost my creative mojo

not to mention my weekends have been insane.

but

I am back with the latest Sketchy Thursday Challenge:

Here is my take on the sketch:

I will be back soon with a book review

for 'Her Fearful Symmetry' by Audrey Niffenegger

(it only took me a month an half to read 401 pages)

TAAFOMFT & Sketchy Thursday Challenge 2.25

2010-02-28T18:49:00.000-08:00

Sketchy Thursday Challenge 2.25

I am loving the sketches over at Sketchy Thursday.

I was able to get two different layouts from this sketch.

Here is my layouts:

bath time with TJ

I love this paper. I love the clocks all over the paper.
It is perfect for my bath time layout.
And the picture of TJ is too cute.
..........
And here is my second layout from the sketch

......................

I missed the deadline for this challenge

but I am going to post it anyways.
The TAAFOMFT Challenge:

These are a few of my favorite memories.

This was kind of a hard challenge for me,

I have so many fond memories.

The deciding factor for me was the photo.

It says it all.

We had just gotten married and

were coming out of the little white church to the limo.

We are so young and happy.

Sketchy Thursdays Challenge 2.18

2010-02-24T11:02:00.000-08:00

Sketchy Thursdays Challenge 2.18:

It's that time again!

Time for another Sketchy Thursday sketch Challenge.

Here is the Sketchy Thursday sketch:

Here is what I was able to create from the sketch:

This challenge was really hard for me. I have the hardest time with circles.

I think this is why I really like Sketchy Thursdays Sketches.

It makes me create outside my comfort zone.

Sketchy Thursdays 2.11 Challenge

2010-02-16T23:30:00.000-08:00

Sketchy Thursdays 2.11 Challenge:

Here is the Sketch

And here is my take on it:

I feel pretty good about it since I able to scrap photos of a quick trip Dave and I made to Jerome, Arizona.

.........

I used sassafras paper and flower embellishments

ribbon is from Green Horned Unicorn Esty shop;

the buttons are from my button jar;

the vintage stamps and milk jar lid came from three potato four;

black thickers for title

...................
Here is the March DT sketch

Requirements: 80's theme, must use the colors hot pink, black and white

Here is my layout:

the super cute diva blossom flowers

are from Green Horned Unicorn Esty shop;

Photo: me in 1987;

ribbon: ribbon jar;

brads: Oriental Trading (4 years ago)

lettering: Thickers (painted white, cat-eye pink and stickled)I hate Thickers! ha!

Title: Nobody puts baby in the corner

.........

The Perrrfect Valentine

2010-02-14T19:46:00.001-08:00

This may have been the perfect Valentine's Day.

My Valentine started off with brunch at Wrigley Mansion..

Picture of entry way of Wrigley Mansion
The food is amazing!
If you haven't been you have to go sometime.
And the views are breathtaking.
..........
After a delicious brunch I got this beauty. And then Dave took me to the movies.
Followed by jalapeno pizza and us curled up on the couch watching some T.V.
Like I said.. The Perfect Valentine's Day for me that is!

.....

Hope you had a lovely Valentines Day too!

Sketchy Thursday 2.4/ Challenge # 14 What is your favorite outfit?

2010-02-09T07:03:00.000-08:00

Once again, the girls at Sketchy Thursday have come up with an amazing sketch for their Challenge 2.4

This sketch did double duty for me.

I was able to create a layout for Sketchy Thursday and for TAAFOMFT

........

......

Here is my interpretation of the sketch: ......

I love this photo. I have wanted to scrap it for years but didn't know how I wanted it to look. However when I saw challenge 2.4

I just knew this was the perfect layout for this photo.

.....

Paper: My Minds Eye/be loved

Paint: Maya Paint (Red)

Lettering: Thickers (Painted)

Mickey Mouse hat: Die Cut

Journaling: You will do just about anything to get me to laugh. We were hot, sticky and pretty much miserable from the Florida humidity. I was getting pretty cranky when you decided to put on 'these ears' to make me laugh.

Mission accomplished..

TAAFOMFT:

Challenge #14 What is your favorite outfit?

Paper: SEI/ Windsor Collection

Lettering: Thickers (painted)

Flower: Making Memories

Ribbon, gold cats eye, and gold stickle

.....

Journaling: I love to wear this black dress. When I put it on I feel as if I've stepped right out of Camelot. It is so Jackie "O"!

Sketchy Thursdays 1.28

2010-02-01T22:56:00.000-08:00

Sketchy Thursdays 1.28 Challenge:

And here is my take on the sketch.

........

The photo is of me and baby Kate.

She is the newest member of the Shoe Clan.

She is just 2 Cute for words
I love the photos of us.

......................

...................

..............................

Thanks for the inspiration Sketchy Thursdays.

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More to come in the following weeks:

my challenge layout for TAAFOMFT
my top 20 ways to deal with a disgruntle co-worker

(a special dedication to my friend Nancy)

a couple of other layouts I have been working on

and much more.

Books, Books and more books....

2010-01-31T07:50:00.000-08:00

Part of my News Year Resolution was to read more. This month I was able to read two Nicholas Sparks books and one by Richard Matheson. I have to be honest, this is the first time I have ever read a Nicholas Sparks book and I have to say I'm not sure if I am a fan. Has anyone else read his books? I would really like to hear your take on his books. I found them to be quite honestly depressing. Are they all like this or did I just happen to read the two most depressing books? Honestly I am not a romance book kind of girl, but I will admit that one of my all time favorite love stories is "The Time Travelers Wife" by Audrey Niffenegger as well as Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen so I am not completely against love stories.
........................................................................
The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks
Seventeen year-old Veronica “Ronnie” Miller’s life was turned upside-down when her parents divorced and her father moved from New York City to Wilmington, North Carolina. Three years later, she remains angry and alienated from her parents, especially her father… until her mother decides it would be in everyone’s best interest if she spent the summer in Wilmington with him. Ronnie’s father, a former concert pianist and teacher, is living a quiet life in the beach town, immersed in creating a work of art that will become the centerpiece of a local church. The tale that unfolds is an unforgettable story about love in its myriad forms – first love, the love between parents and children.
.................................................................
Dear John by Nicholas Sparks
An angry rebel, John dropped out of school and enlisted in the Army, not knowing what else to do with his life--until he meets the girl of his dreams, Savannah. Their mutual attraction quickly grows into the kind of love that leaves Savannah waiting for John to finish his tour of duty, and John wanting to settle down with the woman who has captured his heart. But 9/11 changes everything. John feels it is his duty to re-enlist. And sadly, the long separation finds Savannah falling in love with someone else. "Dear John," the letter read...and with those two words, a heart was broken and two lives were changed forever.
..................................................................
The Box by Richard Matheson
What if every time you pushed a button you received $50,000...but someone you didn’t know died? Would you still push the button? How many times?"Button, Button", which inspired a memorable Twilight Zone episode, is just one of a dozen unforgettable tales in this new collection by Richard Matheson, the New York Times bestselling author of I Am Legend and What Dreams May Come. This volume contains a series of stories that were adapted for television, as well as a new introduction by Matheson himself.

When I picked these books I was looking for something I would normally never pick to read and let me tell you I got it. If anyone has read any of these books I would love to hear your take on them.

Another Sketchy Thursday Challenge

2010-01-27T10:08:00.000-08:00

It's time for the next Sketchy Thursday Challenge.

Here is the original sketch provided by Sketchy Thursdays:

..........

And here is my take on it:

Paper: Cosmo Cricket/Hey Sugar: Candy Girl
Ribbon: a little of this and a whole lot of that
Lettering: Cursive (Cricket Cartridge)
Photo: Dave in San Francisco April 06' pretending to be Forest Gump
or is he pretending? hummmm....

Challenge #13: What is your favorite fragrance?

2010-01-25T20:27:00.000-08:00

My favorite fragrance is an oldie but a goodie. I love Ralph Lauren 'Style' perfume and because I love this perfume so much, the people at Ralph decided that it no longer needed to be sold in a store near you. I have to special order this little bad boy from a special fragrance store and I can only order a 1.3 Fl. Oz a.k.a. 40 ml (which in turn usually costs me an arm and possibly a leg) and as many of you may know this is a tiny, tiny, tiny bottle. Did I mention it is a tiny bottle? TINY! Anyway, as I was saying, I LOVE the fragrance of this perfume. Love it! Hands down this is my favorite fragrance.

Sketchy Thursdays 1.14

2010-01-20T07:35:00.000-08:00

I noticed on Green Horned Unicorn, my friend Toni was participating in a on line challenge from Sketchy Thursdays Blog. I recently bought some items off of the Green Horned Unicorn Esty store and have been wanting to use them badly.. All I can say is when I spotted this layout I knew this sketch was perfect for my recent purchases.

Here is my take on the layout:

The beautiful felt blossom and some of the ribbons are from Green Horned Unicorn Esty shop. If you haven't already checked out this shop and purchased these stinkin cute felt blossoms and ribbon, what are you waiting for?

Challenge #12 What is your favorite Layout from 2009?

2010-01-11T22:01:00.000-08:00

My favorite layout for 2009 happens to be a layout of my dad and step mom's trip to Italy. For my dad's 50th birthday I made him a scrapbook covering photos from his childhood to now. (72 pages in all) Wow! I know, last night was the first time I actually counted to see how many sheets I scrapped. No wonder it took me a year and half to finish it..

Challenge #11:What Is Your Favorite Car?

2010-01-11T21:52:00.001-08:00

Better late than never!

................................

Christmas in Illinois, to lay-offs at work and

then a nasty cold,

it was no wonder I missed Challenge #11.

Anyway, like I was saying better late then never.

......................................

My favorite car is not a car at all,

but a Big Red Truck.

It has been years and years since I have seen it,

but I have fond memories of the Big Red Truck.

Knowing when to take advice...

2010-01-07T13:50:00.000-08:00

Toni, a friend of mine recently encourage me to submit my quilt project to Cosmo Cricket Blog.

And guess what???

They loved it and are currently sharing it on their blog for everyone to see!

(Mine is the second photo from the top!)

http://cosmocricket.typepad.com/cosmo_cricket/

Yippee! Thanks Toni! You were right and I am glad I listened to your advice!

Boise State beats TCU!!

2010-01-05T13:20:00.000-08:00

Parking: $30

......

Refreshments & Souvenirs: $90

.....

Watching Boise State defeat TCU at the

Tostito's Fiesta Bowl:

.....

Priceless

With a 17-10 score, undefeated Boise State beat the TCU Horned Frogs last night during the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl Champions! And I was there to witness it first hand! Even for non-football fans, it was an exciting game, with well matched teams and some artfully executed plays -including a fake punt that clinched the win.

.....

Goooo Broncos!

It's a Major Award!

2009-12-28T18:24:00.000-08:00

Me: It's a Major Award!

Dave: Shucks, I wouldn't know that. It looks like Scrapbook stuff.

Me: What Scrapbook stuff, you nincompoop? It's a Major Award. I won it!

Dave: Darn, heck, you say won it?

Me: Yeah, mind power, Dave; mind power.

..............................................................................

As many of you know, or have figured out from my past postings, Dave and I spent our Christmas in Chicago. Today is the first official day back. And my special prize from TAAFOMFT has been patiently awaiting my arrival back home.

All I can say is I hit the mother load! whooo-who!

................................................................................

I want to thank Chris and all the other TAAFOMFT designers for my very special prize!

I love everything and can't wait to start creating...

Thank you from the bottom of my heart..

Today's Forecast in Chicago....

2009-12-26T09:49:00.000-08:00

Winter weather advisory in effect. Light to moderate snow will continue through much of the day. Tapering off from the west to east very late this afternoon and early this evening. Total Snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches are likely. (Likely? This is already a given.) In addition to snow, south winds of 10 to 20 mph will cause the 'light' and 'fluffy' snow to drift back onto already cleared roadways. Temperature high 27 degrees.

.................................................................

Translation: Amber will be sitting closer to the fireplace with no chance of leaving the house..

Ta-Daaaa!

2009-12-21T15:05:00.001-08:00

The quilt is finally done. However, you will see that I added ribbon (Not my first choice). Yes, I found out that I sewed to close to the seam and let's just say that the washer had a hey-day with it.. I was practically in tears.. I question whether quilting is for me.

The ruffles turned out great!
The name turned out beautifully.

The hand-sewn butterflies did look great until I had to add ribbon. Grrrr!

And last but not least.. What I woke to this morning.
I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

OMG! OMG! OMG! I won!

2009-12-15T06:56:00.000-08:00

First off, I would like to thank the academy, my husband, my family and friends for all of your support during this challenge. And my fans!

I would be nothing without you!

Oops! Wrong speech..

O.k. all kidding aside,

I would like to thank the TAAFOMFT designers for

picking me as one of the winners for the funniest post EVER EVER EVER! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

I am honored and look forward to future challenges!

Challenge #10 What is your FAVORITE Holiday?

2009-12-13T20:52:00.000-08:00

T'was the week before Christmas, when all through the house Homer, our dog, was the only creature stirring. The stockings were hung on the cabinet with care, in hopes that St Nicholas soon would be here.

All the trees are decorated, in hopes that St Nicholas will leave more presents because he was confused.

Dave and I are nestled all snug in our bed, while visions of sugar-plums danced in our heads. And me in a ‘kerchief, and Dave in cap, had just settled down for a long winter's nap.

When out of nowhere in my dreams, arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see who won the TAAFOMFT challenge . Away to the computer I flew like a flash, tore open the keyboard and threw up the mouse.

The moon on the breast of the newly turned on computer screen, gave the luster of mid-day to objects, when, what to my wondering eyes should appear, but a miniature sleigh, and twelve tiny designers,

with a little driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be Julie. More rapid than eagles her coursers they came, and she whistled, and shouted, and called them by name:

"Now, Deana! now, Amy! now, Bekka and Chris! On, Jeanet! on Hanneke! on, Jamie, Sarah Georgia, Jenneke and Lisa! Create! Design! Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!"

They spoke not a word, but went straight to their work. They were busy deciding on who should win the next challenge when all of a sudden Julie sprang to the sleigh, to her team gave a whistle, and away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard her exclaim, as she drove out of sight,"HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL, AND TO ALL A GOOD-NIGHT!"

So when I woke this morning and found it was the 14th, I knew it was a dream and still had time to enter, in hopes I might win. I think by now it is obvious that Christmas is my favorite holiday!

P.s. Photos of the 'Quilt' to follow!

Count them! 1- 2- 3- 4- 5!

2009-12-07T11:20:00.001-08:00

Count them! 1- 2- 3- 4- 5 painting this weekend!!

They are currently finding there way to a little place called Yorkville, Il. Pray that they make it there in one piece.. I wish the photos were better.. I truly amazed myself this time around.. I just hope everyone loves them as much as I do..

Now on to the quilt I am making for our 'newest' niece! I love what I have so far.

Challenge #9: What is your favorite Decade

2009-11-23T20:00:00.000-08:00

So, you think you know the '90s? NOT! From Seinfeld, the show about nothing, to Tickle Me Elmo, the hottest most annoying toy of the '90s, to Titanic, the biggest blockbuster in movie history. The 90's definitely is "like a box of chocolates. You never know what you gonna get!" From Beverly Hills 90210 to X-Files, flannel shirts to the "Rachel" hairdo, from "Rico Suave" to Monica Lewinsky ... Are those Bugle Boy Jeans you're wearing? You down wit "O.P.P"? And most important of all: Where's Waldo?!?!?! The 90's were about gettin' jiggy with it. I think this is why I had to pick "The 90's as my favorite decade" plus this decade played a huge part in my life, I graduated, turned 18, turned 21, and grew up with Friends.

And don't forget...

Garth Brooks made being a goofy looking cowboy cool!
People finally cared about ice skating thanks to the Nancy Kerrigan/ Tonya Harding soap opera
The particularly un-sexy Right Said Fred tells us they are actually "Too Sexy"
Jesse "The Body" becomes Jesse "The Brain" and governor of Minnesota
Battle of the baggy pants rappers: MC Hammer Vs. Vanilla Ice
Mark Wahlberg back when he was known as Marky Mark! "C'mon, c'mon. Feel it! Feel it!
Julia Roberts stars in the gritty, all too real look at the bleak world of prostitution: Pretty Woman
George Foreman becomes heavyweight champ of boxing, and the heavyweight champ of fat reducing grilling machines, at age 45
Sharon Stone becomes a superstar overnight by a racy part in 'Basic Instinct"
Amy goes to jail and Mary Jo takes a bullet in the face- Was Joey really worth it?
92' Olympic basketball dream team feels great about themselves as they squeak past Angola 114-48 and win the gold with a win over Croatia, where basketball was introduced in 1990. Or how we witnessed the evolution of Jason Priestly and Luke Perry's sideburns over the years on Beverly Hills 90210

How could you not love, the 90's and laugh until you've "fallen. and you can't get up!"

Productive Weekend

2009-11-22T18:42:00.000-08:00

The last three weeks have been pretty productive for me. I have a To-Do list a mile long, but I feel like I can check quite a few items off the list after this weekend:

To-Do List:

Yard Sale with a friend on the weekend of the 7th. Check

Finish Baby Album for a friend. I have 2 more Die cuts and I am finished with the 42 page album.. wheewwww..

Paintings:
Finished painting for Robin of Wrigley Field. DONE

Finish Amanda's Painting.. Grrrrrr. Still not done
Start and Finish painting for cousins.. yikes.. Way behind on this one.
Start painting for my friend Dusti.. Started but not close to finishing..

Start Quilt for our niece for Christening... humm... This may be a birthday present instead.
Holiday cards Done! Officially on Friday! I wanted them ready for December 1st and I am ready! Yeah!

Go shopping for a few of the remaining x-mas gifts I still needed. Did most this weekend!

Wrap all the gifts I have purchased for x-mas! Finished about an hour ago! yeah!

Now to go start on my next scrapbook challenge for TAAFOMFT.

Rowdy little boy + bath tub=

2009-11-19T11:14:00.000-08:00

Rowdy little boy+bath tub= 5 stitches!

Late Tuesday night, we got a call from my brother letting us know that our nephew Jaydon, had to get 5 stitches in his chin.

Jaydon is doing fine,

Mom was more upset then him!

I called today and it appears Jaydon is back to his rowdy self,

and his mom is recovering nicely.

Challenge #8 What is your favorite vacation?

2009-11-10T19:25:00.001-08:00

My favorite vacation would be Boston. For my 30th birthday, Dave surprised me with a trip to Boston. Luckily for both of us my birthday falls during Memorial weekend. I know, I know.. What's so lucky about that? Well the people of Boston take every opportunity they can to go to Cape Cod and since it was a 3 day weekend we practically had Boston to ourselves. It was amazing! We didn't have to wait in long lines or fight large crowds. All we had to do was enjoy ourselves. Mission accomplished! So hands down this was my favorite vacation so far. Not to mention Dave and I always have some pretty hilarious stories to share with our family and friends when we get back from any of our vacations.

I will never forget our plane ride back when Dave squirted the guy next to him accidentally with an entire bag of Cesar dressing. (I might add that this was one of the scariest guys I have ever seen. He was wearing all black, a completely shaved head and tons of tattoo's.. I remember the tattoo's because one was of an electric chair. Yikes!) He turned out to be a really nice guy but for a brief moment, I thought Dave and I were not going to make it home..

So you think you can dance?

2009-11-02T07:30:00.000-08:00

So you think you can dance?

Well, my nephew does. I couldn't stop laughing after I saw this video. I think my favorite part may be when he starts jumping up and down. Hilarious!

Jayden, showing us his sweet, sweet moves.

Challenge #7 What is your favorite season?

2009-10-28T12:02:00.000-07:00

What is your favorite season?
Honestly, in Arizona we have basically two seasons, summer and winter.

We don't get to see the leaves change colors or have the beautiful reds, 0ranges and yellows of fall and when we get spring it is usually a warning of the heat to come in the summer. I am not complaining. I will deal with the 100+ weather any day over snow, wind, ice and freezing temperatures.. I just tend to appreciate all the seasons.

Plus when I saw what our next challenge was going to be, all I could think of was the song from Grease 2- "Four Seasons"

I'll be yours in the spring time when the flowers are in bloom..
I'll be yours in the summer, when were playin in the sand...
If you fall in the fall, you'll see, September can be heavenly...
I'll be yours in the winter when the snow in on the ground..
Chorus
Ahhh Ahh Ahh
I'll be your girl for all seasons, all the year through..

So thank you TAAFOMFT, I have officially driven my husband nuts with singing and humming the song "Four Seasons"..
Mission accomplished! ha!

There is nothing like coming home...

2009-10-19T12:01:00.000-07:00

(This is a picture from the plane as we were entering Arizona)

I just got back from the frozen tundra, a.k.a. Illinois! brrrrrrrrrrr!!! (Is all I can say.)

And it seems that living in Arizona has thinned my blood nicely.
I was told (several times) that Illinois is having seasonally cold weather for them? Ha! Funny! Those Illinoisan crack me up.. Comedians I tell ya! Every single one of ya!
All I have to say to that is, I have been going back and forth between Arizona and Illinois for about 10 years +/- and every time I go (and I admit it is usually the winter months we go) it is always FREEZING cold to me...And this time was no exception to the rules..

It was windy, cloudy and raining... and I believe the highest it got was 59 degrees? But on the morning we headed out, the sun decided to peek out from behind the clouds.. (Real nice!) I hope it reaches 60 degrees?

Dear Friends and Family of Illinois,

I hope you are enjoying your 59 +/- degree weather, ohhh and just to let you Illinoisan know, today our high is 102!

Hugs and kisses,

Challenge #6: What is your favorite time of the day?

2009-10-12T09:01:00.001-07:00

Come morning, noon or night my favorite time of the day is when I get to come home to you guys!

This challenge was a bit difficult at first. I had no idea what time of the day was my favorite time. And then after I thought about it, it became very clear. Any time spent with these guys is my favorite.

..................................................................................

On another note, I want to wish my husband a very Happy Happy 39th Birthday! And Happy 7th Anniversary! And to many more! I look forward to growing old with you! Love you!

And I also want to wish Crystal a Happy Birthday! (Welcome to the thirty something club! It only gets better from here! ha! At least that's what I keep telling myself!)

Please Bare with me....

2009-09-30T18:27:00.001-07:00

So I am feeling a little sentimental today, so please bare with me. You see, yesterday was the last of my 'really great friends' was laid off. I have had the opportunity to work with a lot of great people, but over the last two years one by one I have watched as they got laid off. I will admit some hit me harder than others and not because I thought they should go but because I was so close to them. You see, I have been working at CVL for 11 years and 10 months. I grew up in front of a lot of these people. They are like my second family in a lot of ways. They watched me turn 21 and some of them were there to guide me to my first alcohol drink, or when I had my first bad break up with a boy or when I got engaged to my husband and married. And last but not least the year I lost my mom. These people have seen me on top of the world and they have seen me in a zombie state..

There is Nancy, my second mom. She is my coffee buddy, my lunch buddy, my crafty friend, my holiday decorating cube, my laugh so hard at times I almost peed myself and well a true friend who always had my back. I will never forget any of your Halloween costumes either. From the beer wench, drag queen, Brian Hensley over the year (mullet and all), the oompa loompa (the best and you will never be able to top it) to your Jew-dee costume. I miss you every day.. This last year has been hell without you.

Roy, my Native American Friend. The only guy I know who can look like he is working harder than anyone else but what is that?? Is he napping? I miss him saying, "Mornin Nancy, Morning Amber". Overall he put up with a lot of my pranks and jokes.

Sam a.k.a Nancy, what I miss most about her is her swearing! If she couldn't get Micro Station to work she would swear at it.. or throw a stapler. ha! And what a sense of humor she had. Fun-ny! Sorry, I can't really repeat anything she said.

Cheryl, she was just a down to earth person. She is genuinely a sweet hearted women.

Nilesh, I think I miss his smile the most. And any one who has worked with him knows what I mean by this. He smiles every day and I honestly can not remember one time he didn't..

Eddie, Eddie, Eddie. The Brazilian, marble mouth! This guy was funny! I could joke with him about anything.
I was his mentor. All I can say is this grasshopper was a slow learner! ha! No Autocad! I believe we were up to $12 in the No Autocad Jar!

And then there is Jean. Jeanie-bo-beanie, today was her last day. She is the one I could ask any question I didn't understand and needed more info. She is the only person left that would come over and check and make sure I was still breathing in my little green cube. She has a contagious laugh and really only wants the best for everyone.

Heidi, 'What is your husbands name? Are you sure we aren't married to the same guy?' Way too weird...

And to the ones who left before they could be let go. Buddy! Buddy! Buddy! I don't think there was a time Nancy and I weren't laughing. You can quote any movie any time and it still worries me that you think 'Love Actually' was the best romantic movie every.. hummm.. I will never forget you and Nancy in your Halloween costumes (Nancy was an oompa loompa and you were lieutenant Dan from Forrest Grump). The best costumes hands down!! No one will ever top you.. I miss lunches with you and Nancy. It was the highlight of my day.. Thanks guys

Adam the coolest Mormon I ever knew. I wish you all the success as a cop.

And honestly I could go on and on. We had 350+ employees when this started and we are now down to 55-60+. I have worked with a lot of really incredible people and hope to be able to continue to share things with them and maybe one day work together again...

I apologize for the long blog, but I was missing my friends and wanted to let them know I was thinking about them.. Miss you! A

Challenge #5: What is your Favorite Room?

2009-09-23T11:28:00.000-07:00

My favorite room would have to be my craft room. However, it doubles as a guest bedroom too! booo!

I wanted this layout to be different from any other layout I have done. I was totally inspired by sassafras' new line of paper called

I LOVE SASSAFRAS...

I tried to take a couple pictures of this layout, but I don't know if I was able to really capture everything that is going on..

Dinnig? What room? Sorry! Dining Room!

Are you ready for some football?

2009-09-16T11:31:00.000-07:00

Last night, Dave gave me my latest Mr. Potato Head. I think he is trying to get me geared up for the football season. Our household loves the Greenbay Packers.. It gets a little confusing for friends and family because Dave is originally from Chicago (born and raised). He is a huge Cubs fan, but loves the Packers.. However, the rest of his family does NOT share the same feelings.. Let's just say that this last Sunday when the Packers and Bears played our phone was ringing off the hook.... And well, I am officially a Packer fan by default.. If you can't beat them, you might as well join them.

So, why did he get you a Mr. Potato Head?

Well, as some of you may or may not already know.. I have a small (ha!) collection of Mr. & Mrs. Potato heads. When I say small I have a least 25 of them?? At least!! Over 9 years ago, I received my first Mr. Potato head from an employee who was leaving CVL. I was told I had to collect Potato heads because I was from Idaho and should never be without a potato. Thanks A lot!!! When this collection started, I never knew I would uncover or receive sooo many different Potato heads.. I have everything from sports, Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Transformers and different holiday Spuds.. It's a strange collection but it's mine and I actually do love them! And unfortunately they do remind me of Idaho!

Challenge #4 What is your favorite food

2009-09-06T16:32:00.001-07:00

My favorite food is Mexican Food! Hands down!

The hotter the better! I love jalepenos.. I eat them like candy.. They are yummy to my tummy!

I really enjoyed this challenge. I don't know if it was the topic or if I just wasn't rushing. I am a bit of a procrastinator.. I thought I would also add my sketches on how I came up with my page layout. I do sketches a lot of the time to get ideas out of my head.

'Toot-toot!'

2009-09-06T15:08:00.000-07:00

I am going to toot my own horn. Toot-Toot!

I painted this picture of Lisa's doggie 'Sadie' and absolutely 'LOVED' it. I almost didn't give it to her.. JK! Immediately after painting this beauty, I drove it straight to Lisa's work to give to her. I couldn't wait...
I am really enjoying painting, but I think it is time to move onto a new subject because I do not want to be known as the dog lady.. Or be one of those people who has a ton of paintings of dogs hanging in their home.. creepy!!! Not that there is anything wrong with it... -Jerry Sienfield

Please note if you want me to paint anything for you, please buy a cat! JK.

In all seriousness, I really am enjoying painting and hope one day to make a profit from it!

SHHHHHHH!!!! The baby's sleeping!

2009-08-27T21:19:00.000-07:00

It's about 8 pm on Thursday and I just got TJ down for the evening.. The poor little guy was so tired and fussy. I have to be honest though, I was super nervous to babysit TJ tonight. You see TJ and his family are currently having to crash at a hotel, because their home is currently under construction. You say, "So what, big deal.." Well it is a big deal when the only way you know how to get him to go to sleep is to rock him to sleep in a rocking chair. I have tried and tried without any success the following:

1. Take TJ for a walk in stroller.. (I swear, I don't go fast and yes, Grandma A, I know it is not a roller coaster ride...)
2. I tried rocking him from side to side while standing.. (He especially hates this..)
3. His mom Amy, before she left for the evening said, 'He likes it when I rub his back' (Well let me tell you... I think the key word here is he likes MOMMY to rub his back..)
4. Make sure baby eats all of his bottle so his little belly is nice and full. (Wrong! Have you ever seen a baby with projectile vomit?? I still nightmares on that one.)
5. Grandma A's advice, play with his hair... (Did you know babies can look at you like you are crazy??)
6. Sing a lulla-bye to him. (I think, I can't be sure, but I may not be a good singer..)
7. Give him a bath in the Johnson bath time soap. (LIARS! It doesn't help make him sleepy or stay asleep or whatever else they advertise it to do.. HA! I am onto you Johnson & Johnson!)
8. Parents magazine says, let him 'self' soothe himself to sleep. (ha-ha fun for everyone!!)
9. Try wearing him out.. Show him all the toys, play with toys, read to him and in the end I am the one worn out.. and want to cry now.

And finally the only thing that worked to get TJ to fall sleepy-bye.

10. I put him in his bounce chair thing-a-ma bob, stick the bottle in his mouth and rocked him (GENTLY) and here is the most important part.. I prayed to GOD to please let him fall asleep.
And after 45+ mins of this... he was out..

PLEASE! I beg of the following to the people upstairs, can you PLEASE take the elephants back to the zoo, and the guy to the right of me PLEASE take your dogs out for a walk.. I think they need to go pee, and last but by no means least could the couple who decided to have a fight outside our window move it to the parking lot...

Thank you..

Challenge #3- These are a Few of My Favorite Movies & Movie Quotes...

2009-08-25T07:30:00.000-07:00

I have always adored the book, Pride and Prejudice. It makes you believe in true love and happily every afters..So I knew exactly what movie I was going to pick as my favorite movie.. However, I am very much a c0medy girl. So I did a favorite movie quotes page too...

Workin on a little project....

2009-08-18T07:46:00.000-07:00

Sooo, I am currently working on a little project for the hubby. He asked me to paint a picture of the Wrigley Field sign and part of the building. This is what I have so far. I still have a lot to do, but I do like how it is turning out. And the lettering was a lot harder than I thought it would be.. hummm....

and appears to be slightly crooked.. oh well..

Ohhhhh, Back to School

2009-08-11T07:29:00.000-07:00

Ohhhhhhhh

Back to School

To prove to Dad that I'm not a fool

I've got my lunch packed up

My boots tied tight

I hope I don't get in a Fight

Ohhhhhhhh

Back to School

-Adam Sandler

Today is the first official day of school for my husband (with the kids that is). Yippee! He is a seventh grade Social Studies teacher. Every year when school starts I wake him up singing this little tune..

Ohhhhhhhh Back to School, Back to School....

Btw, don't you love the avatar I made of my husband going back to school? I found this fun website where you take a picture of someone and turn it into a Simpson avatar. Here is the website:

http://simpsonizeme.com/

I want to also Congratulate my husband on receiving

'Employee of the Year'

2008-2009

Yesterday while attending an in school service day, he was presented with 'Employee of the Year' plaque. It is a pretty big deal because it is not just for the Junior High staff, but also the High School staff, Elementary staff, Administration, and a lot of other departments. A couple hundred people...

I am so proud of him....

He is an amazing teacher! I couldn't be prouder of him!

Congratulations Dave!

TJ Thursdays!

2009-08-06T11:56:00.000-07:00

Every Thursday for the last month or so, I have been babysitting this little guy.. Isn't he a cutie?? TJ will be 5 months old on the 15th. He love's bathtime. I have never seen a baby love bathtime time like this.. He is all smiles and giggles when I put in. It's funny how excited I get for Thursdays now...

Scrap Challenge #2 What is your favorite flower?

2009-08-03T11:23:00.001-07:00

Gerbera Daisies! Gerbera Daisies! Gerbera Daisies!

Gerbera Daisies are my favorite flower.

I have to admit that this was a difficult challenge for me. I have never really been a flower kind of girl, but every year on our anniversary my husband sends me Gerbera Daisies... I can't help but love them.

(P.s. Thanks Toni for the idea of stickling the letters.. It turned out nicely!)

I am also adding another page to my 'These are a few of my favorite things' album. It is a I am... page. I have been tagged in the last week maybe 10-15 emails wanting to know who I am.. So, I thought why not scrap it???

2009-07-29T09:20:00.000-07:00

Scrap Challenge: 'These are a few of my favorite things!!!'

I am participating in an online challenge blog. Thanks to my friends Lisa and Toni.. I loved the idea Toni came up with making an album about herself.. So, I think I will too.. Here is the front of my scrapbook album.. I love it!! It turned out better than I could have hoped for. I will be adding the pages I do from the blog every two weeks. I can't wait for the next challenge..

First Challenge: What is your favorite color???

I love the color Tiffany Blue... also green-blue, blue-green.. I can't wait to see what our next challenge will be:

http://whatisyourfavething.blogspot.com/

I also wanted to share some pictures of a couple paintings I have been working on. I just start painting a couple of months ago.. I thought I would start with dogs? For some reason they seemed the easiest to me?? (Weird, I know!)

The first painting is of my dog Homer.. He has a face only a mother could love! ha! He is the first one I painted. I really like the way it turned out..
I put the photo I used of Homer in the corner for everyone to see the photo vs. the painting..

This painting is of my brother in laws girlfriend dog.. Wrigley! (They are HUGE, HUGE cub fans..) So naturally the dog would be named Wrigley! ha!

And last but not least... I painted a picture of 'our' cousin's dog. She lost him a couple of years ago.. and has always wanted a painting of him.. So, she doesn't know it yet but for Christmas she will be receiving this painting. I hope she likes it..

Coming Soon...

2009-07-28T13:07:00.001-07:00

I am currently working on my blog site. This is a little new to me so I am still working out the kinks.

I will be participating in an online challenge blog with two of my crafty friends, Toni and Lisa.

I can't wait to share what I have been working on.