My 2 Monkeys - Penny For My Thoughts

New Goodies - Miss Mint: Christmas Past

2011-12-07T08:37:00.006-05:00

Tis the season... for Holiday kits! I love holiday kits. I would say that I have a slight addiction to anything Holiday related. I've got quite a stash, and I'm sure that I've not used them all either.

Well, Miss Mint's (Peppermint Creative) new Holiday kit - Christmas Past - is just to die for! I love the vintage feel... totally right up my alley.

I love the new alphas that she's created to go with... her alphas are a must have in my book!

She's even bundled the whole collection together.

Also, if you haven't tried Miss M's goodies... she's got a new freebie kit out too... and it's perfect for scrapping those holiday movies I know I'll be watching this season!

I'm using this collection for my December Daily Album - really more of a Christmas 2011 Memories album. Check out the first few pages - images linked for full credits:

Well folks, that's all for today, but I'll be back soon with more new goodies! Until then... Happy Scrapping!!!

Tasha

Pencil Lines Sketch 262

2011-12-05T06:56:00.002-05:00

Hey Folks! I'm back with another awesome spotlight of a fellow Pencil Lines Design Team member! This week you can learn all about Leah Farquharson! Leah also supplied this week sketch on the Pencil Lines Blog:

Here's my layout using this sketch:

supplies:
Holiday Party by Shabby Miss Jean
Muffin Tin Charm | Baked with Love by Shabby Miss Jenn
Little Pockets by Valorie Wibbens
BiggieBet Alpha - Tomato by Peppermint Creative (recolored)
Push button Alpha - Sand by Peppermint Creative
Stapled Tabs by Peppermint Creative
Word art | Kitchy Kitchen by Sahlin Studio and Jenn Barrette
Font: DJB Jennifer Script by Darcy Baldwin

Well, that's all for this post... but look for me real soon with new goodies to show off! Until then... HAPPY SCRAPPING!

Pencil Lines Sketches 258 & 257

2011-11-20T09:36:00.007-05:00

I'm a little behind on posting my Pencil Lines pages. I do love working with sketches, but I'll admit that I'm not always crazy about them or even inspired by them. You want to know something strange though... those pages that I struggle with turn out to be some of my favorites. This was most definitely the case with sketch 258. I struggled to find a vision of where I would take this page. Here's the sketch inspired by fellow Pencil Lines Design Team member Jennifer Mattot:

If you'd like to read more about Jennifer Mottot, the above sketch is linked to the Pencil Lines Sketch 258 Blog posting.

For my page... I really struggled to find a starting point. It wasn't until I flipped the sketch that my vision came... check out my finished page:

I just love how the Autumn page turned out! For this page, I used Autumn Flea Market Vol 2 by Shabby Miss Jenn with Snipettes: Fall by Sahlin Studio. Stitches by Anne Delong and the font is Grown Up Girl by Darcy Baldwin.

Up next, Sketch 257 was one of those that pretty much I had a vision of before I began the layout. I love the paper blocking style... especially when I can use a lot of pattern papers. Here's the sketch inspired by fellow Pencil Lines Design Team member Jennnifer Chapin:

If you'd like to read more about Jennifer Chapin, the above sketch is linked to the Pencil Lines Sketch 257 Blog posting. Here's my page:

For this page, I used Bountiful Blessings by Melissa Bennett with Snipettes: The Perfect Pumpkin by Sahlin Studio and the font is Grown Up Girl by Darcy Baldwin.

Well, that's it for now... be sure to stop by again soon!

Happy Scrapping!
Tasha

Pencil Lines Sketch 260

2011-11-20T09:16:00.004-05:00

I'm so excited... this week is my Featured Spotlight at Pencil Lines! Make sure to check out the PENCIL LINES BLOG to read all about me! This week's sketch is based on a layout I created. Here's my original layout:

Here's the sketch Anna created:

Here's the products I used:

Dear Santa Elements by Miss Mint | Peppermint Creative
Dear Santa Papers by Miss Mint | Peppermint Creative
Bingo Cards - Christmas by Miss Mint | Peppermint Creative
Jellybets - Christmas by Miss Mint | Peppermint Creative
Spaghetti String - Bold by Miss Mint | Peppermint Creative
Candy Cane Alphabet - Red by Miss Mint | Peppermint Creative
Push Button Alphabet - Snow by Miss Mint | Peppermint Creative

I'm so thrilled to be a part of this team... and I'm just amazed by what the other design team members created. Now, I can't wait to see what you all create based on my layout. It's so much fun to see where everyone's vision takes them.

Happy Scrapping!
Tasha

Pencil Lines Sketch 256

2011-10-25T09:27:00.003-04:00

Well folks I'm back with another amazing sketch from another one of the amazing Design Team members at Pencil Lines! This week's sketch was created by Evgenia Petzer. Make sure to check out the Blog Posting to read all about her! Here's the sketch:

For my layout, I really wanted to scrap with my youngest daughter's first Halloween photo. That year she was Blue from Blue's Clues. She was totally too cute.

Aren't here ears to cutest! My husband used bendable straws to make them stick out.

If you are interested in the digital supplies I used... here's the links:

Well with that folks, I'm out of here for today! Until next time - Happy Scrapping!!!

Pencil Lines Sketch 255

2011-10-16T15:02:00.008-04:00

Well... it's that time again... a new Pencil Lines Sketch! I really love seeing all the different takes on the same sketch - it's so interesting to see how differently we see the same picture. This week's sketch is another one provided by one of my Design Team members - Cathy Brancieq. Make sure to drop by the Pencil Lines Blog to read all about her!

Here's my take on the sketch:

The goodies I used for this layout have all been retired by Jady Day Studio.

Til next time - Happy Scrapping!

Pencil Lines Sketch 254

2011-10-12T08:12:00.004-04:00

I'm back... with another awesome sketch from the Pencil Lines Sketch Blog. This week's sketch was created from a layout by my fellow Design Team member Anna Bjorklund. Make sure to drop by the blog (image is linked) to learn a little more about her!

Here's what I created...

Here's the kit I used... I love fall kits!

Also, don't forget that the Design Team Call still going on until October 16th 2011 12pm GMT. If you love sketches, I'd be sure to apply!

Pencil Lines - Design Team Call

2011-10-10T08:40:00.003-04:00

I love working with sketches and I was so honored to be offered a Design Team spot on the Pencil Lines Sketch Blog last spring. Well, if you like working with sketches - Pencil Lines is looking for a couple of artist to add to the Design Team... for full detail check out the Pencil Lines Blog posting.

New Miss Mint Goodies (Peppermint Creative)

2011-10-05T16:12:00.003-04:00

I have always love fall kits... I would say that I have a touch of an obsession with my collection of them. Well, Miss Mint of Peppermint Creative just released her new Autumn Collection and it is a TOTAL MUST HAVE!!! Check out the new goodies (images are linked to the shop) -- All brand new Fall/Thanksgiving products 25% off until Oct. 6th (midnight EST):

Check out the layouts I made using these new goodies (images are linked for full credits):

Oh... and lets not for get the new Holiday Vectors just released at Peppermint Creative... All brand new Holiday Commercial Vector products 25% off until Oct. 10th (midnight EST). Here are just a couple that I just adore... check out all of them ---> HERE <---

Also, check out the new Pimp My Page Template Challenge #41 - October by Megan Whitney available at Peppermint Creative for the month of October:

Don't forget if you download the FREE template, dress it up using mostly Peppermint Creative products and post it in the Peppermint Creative Gallery and in the PMP Thread you will be entered for chance to win a $5 Gift Card to the Peppermint Creative Store. Check out the PMP Thead for full details!

Well, I believe that's all for now. Hope ya'll enjoyed the goodies! Happy Scrapping Ya'll!

Pencil Lines Sketch 253

2011-10-05T15:16:00.006-04:00

Man... I totally dropped the ball on keep up with this blog. Well, I can't say that I'll be any better in the future, but I will try!

I just love the fall season. It's my favorite time of the year. I love the colors the landscape changes too. After having lived so many years out in California... the land of no fall... I can really appreciate it now. I do miss being in my hometown and going to the local national park. This time of year is so beautiful there... and I have so many memories of getting "Chocolate Coffee" from the local coffee company and sipping it while driving through the winding roads of the park.

Ok enough about - Pencil Lines has a new sketch - Sketch 253 by Carina Lindholm - out this week. Make sure to stop by the site and check out what the other Design Team members created, but here's the original sketch (image is linked to Pencil Lines):

and here's my layout:

Image is linked for full credits and product links

Well, I'll be back soon with some new goodies from some of my favorite designers! Until then... Happy Scrapping Ya'll!!!!

Pencil Lines Sketch 244

2011-06-26T16:04:00.003-04:00

Hey Folks! I'm back with another amazing sketch from the Pencil Lines Blog!

Here's my take on the sketch! I do love playing around with shape mats...

In case your curious... here's the main kit I used to create this layout:

Other digital supplies:
Stitching from Weeds N Daises by Shabby Miss Jenn
All Worn Up In You (bracket worn overlay) by Lauren Grier and Penny Springmann
All Worn Out Collection (other worn overlays) by Penny Springmann

Don't forget to stop by the Pencil Lines Blog to check out the amazing Guest Designer and what the other Pencil Lines Design Team created! Until next time... Happy Scrapping!

Pencil Lines Sketch 242

2011-06-12T10:56:00.007-04:00

Howdy Folks! Can you believe that June is almost half way over??? I'll admit that June is my favorite month... could be that it is my birthday month :) I had a wonderful birthday... not that we did much but just that I celebrated another year. The weather is really nice here... warm and sunny. We got one of those top ring blue pools for the girls to enjoy this summer. They can't wait to take their first dip in it. I'm glad that we will have something to enjoy this summer. With Matt's work schedule, it will be nice for keeping the girls entertained.

I love this week's Pencil Lines Sketch... check it out (the image is link to the Pencil Lines Blog if you want to check out what other Design Team members created):

Here's my layout:

(image is linked for full credits)

This week, I used the new Freebie Kit available at Peppermint Creative... I just love the theme :)

Well, folks that's all for today! Until next time... Happy Scrapping!

Pencil Lines Sketch 236

2011-05-01T15:32:00.005-04:00

Happy Sunday! How's your Sunday going? For us... about as normal as any Sunday is. I'm typing away on the computer listening the girls argue. I'm dreading summer vacation.

Well, this past week was an exciting week... I got one of the best surprises I've ever gotten! I was totally shocked when I read the "hey I like you... wanna join my team" e-mail I got from Shawna Clingerman! Totally Shocked!!! That's two this year that I didn't think I had a chance of ever making the teams and I did! WOOHOO!!!

Well, this week's Pencil Lines Sketch Layout is really special to me. Lately, I've been on a roll of using WM [Squared]'s new collection call MY HISTORY. When I got my first peek at this week's sketch, I knew I wanted to use these worn overlays that I have... it was perfect. Next, I was browsing my photos and I can across one of my grandparents early in their relationship... and I totally wanted to scrap it... and it was perfect for the sketch... and as they say... the rest was history... check out my layout below:

Credits:
My History by WM [Squared]
Happy Anniversay by WM [Squared]
So Thankful by WM [Squared]
Pencil Lines Sketch 236 by Anna Bowkis
Bad Sewing Machine 18 - Kinda Kleen by Traci Reed
Bad Sewing Machine 20 - Kinda Kleen and Round by Traci Reed
All Worn Out 3 by Penny Springmann
All Worn Up In You 2 by Lauren Grier and Penny Springmann
AlphaBits - Purple by Christina Renee Designs
Font: DJB Issie Script

Here's the sketch I based this layout on by Anna Bowkis... if you want the image is linked so go grab it!

and... in case you're interested, here's the MY HISTORY Kit by WM [Squared]:

There's more to the collection - Extras, Word Art, and a Bonus Alpha Set. It's totally LOADED!

Well, folks, that all for today... Happy Scrapping Ya'll!!!

Pencil Lines Sketch 234

2011-04-18T08:50:00.011-04:00

Wow folks... Monday already??? Where did the weekend go... and to top if off this is Spring Break week for the girls! Yikes - they'll be home ALL week. This weekend we did do something special... we went to the circus! It was totally fun and it was great so share this experience with the girls... something that I got to share with my parents when I was little.

It still feels like a dream seeing my pages up on the Pencil Lines Sketch Blog... and this week's sketch by Anna Bowkis was totally fun to work with... check it out:

A Life So Sweet {Collab} by Jady Day Studio and WM [Squared]

Well, that's all for today... Thanks for stopping by!

Pencil Lines Sketch 232

2011-04-03T15:30:00.004-04:00

My first layout done as part of the Pencil Lines Sketch Blog Design Team... I'm still in pinch me mode... I just love the inspiration from this site and I can't believe that I'm now a part of it. So... without further ado, here's this week's sketch 232:

Sketch Provided by Anna Bowkis

Isn't this sketch lovely... I decided to focus on the layering around the photo... here's mine:

Credits:
Love Birds by Shabby Miss Jenn
Font: DJB Issie Script

Also, I found that saying and I thought it would be perfect for the relationship my hubby and I have... with is career, that saying is so often true.

Well, that's all for now folks!

Happy Scrapping!

Happy April Fools Day!

2011-04-01T20:08:00.010-04:00

Hey Everyone! You know... I've never really been a fan of this day. A day that you play tricks on friends... and I was the one that fell for everything! I've even fell today for my 7 year old's trick. I'm gullible!

What I am a fool for... scrapbooking! Yep... I've been at it again this week. I just love all the new goodies that hit those digi-shelves today. So many goodies I want to play with... if only I had the time and money huh. So many happenings... that I truly don't know where to start today. So I guess that I'll just Jump right in... with the big news from Creations By Rachael! Did ya hear... here new store opened up today! If you don't know who she is... and amazingly talented designer whom I can't believe that I made her creative team... well check out her goodies:

Over the new few weeks she'll be loading her store with both new and some older favorites... check some of this weeks goodies:

Here's what I created with this kit:

Also, Rachael is releasing Gone Fishing... I just love the vintage feeling of this kit... check it out:

Here's my page of my Grandfather:

I love this next sweet not so little kit... Wings & Wildflowers:

Here's my page with my oldest daughter many springs ago:

This month make sure to check out Jady Day Studio's Guest shop at 9th & Bloom... she hit it out of the park with her first release there - Starting Anew:

With this kit, I was really inspired to look at "What Lies Ahead" especially the wide open spaces I could go:

Also, Yari released these Stamped Alphas in her ScrapMatter's store:

Make sure to check back to see what I make with these... I have such an Alpha Addiction!

Also, ScrapMatters is beginning a new monthly collection - Mix A Kit. Check out what WM [Squared] made for this:

Here's my page... I just love the bright and fun colors!

Oh my... lots of Guest Stores this month... make sure to check out Boutique Cute Dolls Guest Store at The Shabby Pickle... she did hit the ground running with this kit:

I can't wait to get my fingers on this... I just love the colors!

Finally... but certainly not least... Gina Miller and the Lilypad released the April BYOC goodies:

and... wait for it... It's Quarterly Sale Time!

Oh man... I'm sure gonna blow my budget with this!

Well... I believe that wraps up this edition of New Goodies... stay tuned for my next posting on Sunday... I'm so excited about this one!

Happy Scrapping!

OMG... What a Pinch Me Moment!

2011-03-17T00:04:00.003-04:00

OMGosh... I'm still so in shock over this... totally amazing and so hard to believe. Back in 2007 when I first started digi-scrapping I found this little blog with some amazing sketches... see I discovered first how to work with sketches... templates where just a twinkle in their creators eye. But I digress... back to my chosen topic. I found not only the sketches inspirational, but the layouts... AMAZING! And over the years, I have honed my style... which I'm sure is shaped by the amazing pages I saw.

Well, a few weeks ago... I saw this sketch blog was having a Design Member call. I have always been inspired by the paper pages I saw, but I don't know what made me want to apply. I truly didn't think I stood a chance... first, I'm a digital girl... and I want to be on a paper blog? Talk about identity crisis. But I just love this blog... so I sent in my app. Now, a couple of days ago, I get the dreaded e-mail... you know.. the thanks but no thanks e-mail... so imagine my surprise... when she asked me to join her team. So check it out... yep... that's me --> Natasha Akers USA (Digital)...

I'll admit, that I'm shaking in my boots just a tad... but I'm so excited... and I can't wait to get started!

Totally Tuesday...

2011-03-15T19:54:00.007-04:00

Hey Folks! It's totally Tuesday and I'm listening to the sound of the jets flying around overhead. I've come to the conclusion that nothing good is on tv... a person can only take so many reality shows. This weekend is an exciting one for us. Lindsay will be finishing the last mile of the Shamrock run. She's been attending running club at her school all year and she's so excited about it.

Well, putting my head back into the sand my husband call the scrapping world... one of my favorite designers is having a call... what a dream it would be. If you haven't heard about her or the call... make sure to check them out!

Now... onward to the gorgeous kits I just can't stay away from out there in digi-world. Check them out below:

I just love Lauren's new kit... all pink and pretty... what fabulous pattern papers too!

Credits:
Can't Hold Me Down by Lauren Grier
Template by Rainy Dayz Designs

I did get to play with Jady Day Studio's new release from Friday... I just love the rainbow colors!

Credits:
Just My Luck by Jady Day Studio
Tempting Templates {vol. 3} by Rainy Dayz Designs

I just love love this kit by Creations by Rachael... so many beautiful pattern papers and the embellishments are to die for!

Credits:
Friends Are Forever by Creations By Rachael
Cindy's Templates: Set 87 Pg 4 by Cindy Schneider
Font: DJB Issie Script

This little box is a totally hit with my girls... they just love it and have requested that I make more of them.

Credits:
Mix it up - Hybrid Challenge March 3rd at Scrapbook Graphics - Template by Tanja (thunderdragon)
First Day Of Spring Collection - Full Kit By Boutique Cute Doll

What an amazing collection BCD released on Friday! AMAZING... really the number of totally rocking spring goodies is amazing!

Credits:
First Day Of Spring Collection - Bundle By Boutique Cute Doll
Funny Alpha By Boutique Cute Doll
Crocus Templates by zinnias and swallowtails at The Lilypad
Font: Ariel

I've had my eye on this Lady Bug kit for a while... I just love the papers and all the little goodies and the alpha (which I didn't use in the layout) is amazing. I'll admit that I really love acrylic goodies!

Credits:
Sweet Ladybug by Boutique Cute Doll
First Day of Spring: Flowers by Boutique Cute Doll
First Day of Spring: Add-on Papers by Boutique Cute Doll
Crocus Templates by zinnias and swallowtails at The LilyPad
Fonts: Hobo and DJB Issie Script

Well folks, that's all for tonight. I've got some exciting news to share with you all when next I write. So... until then... Happy Scrapping!

New Goodies Friday: March 11, 2011

2011-03-11T08:09:00.007-05:00

Happy Friday Scrappers and Friends! How'd your week go? Mine... it went really quickly! I don't know what's happening in your neck of the woods, but here... Spring is in the air! I'm totally ready for our weather to warm up... but you know before long I'll be saying that I can't wait for it to cool down. Yesterday was a stormy day here... I know my hubby was a little let down that we didn't get any thunderstorms... I know my girls are happy we didn't get any. Personally, I don't mind one once in a while.

Today's a special day for my family... over 30 years ago today I arrived on my parents doorsteps. After their many years of waiting... they finally got their little girl to adopt. Growing up we never did really acknowledge this date... but I do remember another family who always went out for Ice Cream on their adoption anniversary date. That sounds like an awesome way to celebrate.

Now, onto the new goodies! Lots of awesome goodies hit the digi-shelves today. Of course my designers have some amazing new goodies... first up take a look at Jady Day Studio's amazing new Just My Luck... I love the rainbow colors!

Next up... WM[Squared] has two amazing kits this week! First up is Crazy Love... I love the fun and funkiness of this kit... check it out below:

also be sure to check out the matching Crazy Love Alpha or pick them up together in this Crazy Love Bundle.

Here's my page with this lovable kit:

Also, she release this totally fabulously Lucky Me kit... it's GREEN... have I mentioned that my favorite color is GREEN!

Here's my Lucky in Love page:

Now... Gina Miller's new Collab with Jacque Larsen totally takes me back to my childhood days... of playing with Legos with my friends... check it out:

I just love the fun colors and aren't those elements fabulous! Also, there's a girls add-on... make sure to check that out!

Now, last but certainly not least is Boutique Cute Doll's new MEGA Collection: First Day Of Spring! Check it out:

This collection is jam packed with so many goodies... a full kit, add-on papers, alphas, tags, wordarts, flowers, balloons, frames, stamps and stitches... totally LOADED... make sure to check it out!

Well, folks, I believe that's all for this Friday! I'm off to window shop around the community!

Happy Scrapping!

Penny for my thoughts... on Sketches!!!

2011-03-02T13:04:00.010-05:00

Well, it's another day and I'm back with my thoughts on Sketches. I totally love sketches. I find them so easy to work with but I've been told by others that they have a really had time creating layouts with them. I totally think that it may be the tools in my stash that help me out. Want to know more of what I'm talking about? Well, let's start with my example - Always Be Yourself

Kit: Life Lessons: 101 by Lauren Grier & Kristin Cronin Barrow

I love how this page turned out. Want to see the sketch I used? Well, I found it on the Scrapbook & Cards Today Bonus Sketch Section.

Now to shake this sketch up a bit, I turned to my stash. I just love using shapers and such. For this sketch, I used Lauren Grier's Layered Up In You: Circles, Edges, Rounded and Waves. These little goodies are perfect for working with sketches.

Also, when working with sketches (or even templates for that matter) you can use all or any part of the original. With this layout, I rotated only half the sketch... I left the center portion the way it was.

So the next time you are looking for inspiration, don't be afraid to use a sketch... and look outside of what the elements are shown as.

Happy Scrapping!!!

New Goodies Friday: February 27, 2011 (a tad late)

2011-02-27T19:25:00.004-05:00

Happy Sunday!!! Oops... I guess I got behind on this already. Well, I can't really say anything new is going on here on the home front. Last weekend, my hubby got to take a "boys" trip to Daytona for the opening Nascar race. He was all excited about that.

This week, some awesome goodies hit the digital shelves... and this new Collab by Jady Day Studio and KimB Designs is fantastic! I just love the spring soft colors. I'm sure I'll be using this one over and over again.

Also, this week from WM [Squared] a fabulous set of Be Inspired templates. I know this series never fails to inspire me... and this week's set is different.

Also this week, I got to play around with some too... I just loved the new Free as a Bird Kit from Jenn Barrette... and I just had to have it. Look at the lovely page I made today:

Well folks, that all for today. But stay tuned for more sneak peeks and new goodies!

Happy Scrapping!

Jady Day Studio CT Call

2011-02-27T19:21:00.002-05:00

Did ya see... Jady Day Studio is having a CT Call!

Come apply!!! Yari is awesome to work with!!!

Hybrid Gallery Stand Outs

2011-02-07T08:18:00.002-05:00

Check it out peeps... I got Hybrid GSO at Me So Scrappy for my accordion card using You + Me by Boutique Cute Doll.

It's such an honor to be recognized by my peers. I'm so happy!!!

Penny for my thoughts... on TEMPLATES!

2011-02-06T11:09:00.008-05:00

Oh my... hasn't the use of templates just exploded in the digi community? Now the down fall of this is the amount of layouts that essentially look the same. I can often name the template before I read the credits. Of course I'm a huge template and sketch user... but let's save sketches for another day.

Now I'm in no way gonna bash the use of template... I know there are some who think of using templates as cheating. I'll admit to having to come to terms with my use of them... but I really look at them more as a starting point. The best compliment I got was from the designer of said template stating that she didn't realize it was her template til she read the credits.

Sometimes I use the template in a straight forward kind of way... really not changing it up much. Please note that all photos are linked for full credits.

Other times, I will spice it up so to speak. With this layout, I really loved the blocking pattern, so I decided to spice up the background by adding layers.

Now for this page... instead of using solid papers... I used little frames... and I just love how it turned out...

One the big things to remember is that a template is an outline for you layout... a guide so to speak. You don't have to use any or all of the layers or in the way in which the are designated. Part of my 2011 Scrapping Goals is to use templates less and one scrapping friend suggested that to break my template habit, I delete like half the template when I open it and use my imagination to finish it.

The next time you open a template... challenge yourself to see it in a whole new light. Flip it, turn it, delete parts, use a round element instead of a square one. Just try to make it your own!

New Goodies Friday: February 4, 2011

2011-02-04T19:46:00.003-05:00

Happy Friday ya'll!!! Are you ready for the Weekend? Anyone got anything special going? Any Super Bowl Parties? Us... nope... nothing special. I'm not a football fan so I'm planning to have a scrap-a-thon with some teen flick movies thrown in for good measure.

Well, there are some AWESOME goodies hitting the digital shelves... I can't believe that I'm lucky enough to be on these designers CT teams... <3 First up but in no particular order... is Boutique Cute Doll... I just love the fun funky bold colors... and Look at this AMAZING collection she has for us this week... this really does lend itself to more than those Valentine's layouts.

I was really inspired by one of the word arts she includes... and I just could help making this hybrid accordion card/album. I had so much fun making it, that I can wait to try making a longer one.

And... WM [Squared] hit it would of the park with this one... I just love the colors in this kit... and elements are magnificent!

This week I set out to make each of my daughters a Valentines layout this week... here's Nicole's... I think it is perfect for my 15 going on 25 why did this teen have to take over my daughter daughter.

and... I'm in PINK heaven with Jady Day Studio's new release... and it is so SWEET...

This kit matches so well with Lindsay "fancy" dress... isn't she PRETTY IN PINK!

Also, the first Friday of the month means... new BYOC goodies from the designers at The Lilypad! Check out what Gina Miller rocked this week:

I'm sure by now you realized my blog is rocking new duds... Miss Mint is the first designer I found back in 2007 when I started digital scrapping. I still have a soft spot in my digital heart for her designs... and as always her Valentine's kit rocks this year! I just love the pattern papers... but I'm truly just a sap for papers. And she has a new Freebie... make sure to check out the little boots... they're just the cutest!

Well folks... I do believe that I'm outta here... til next time!

CT Calls...

2011-01-28T23:05:00.004-05:00

I interrupt the regularly scheduled blog posting to bring you this late breaking news... MODERN JUNE is having a CT CALL!

Hurry ladies only 2 spots available and Kathy's such a doll to work with!!!

Also... eNKay Design's CT CALL is still going on...

Nathalie is so sweet and awesome to work with too...

Don't let these opportunities slip by... take the chance and APPLY!

New Goodies Friday: January 28, 2011

2011-01-28T20:46:00.011-05:00

Happy Friday People!!! How'd your week go? Mine was... both long and short. Don't know how that is but some times seem to fly by while other just dragged on. On the home front... nothing new really. This week Nicole had state testing so she had half days most of the week. Today was originally a school holiday but it was turned into a make up snow day. Monday will be a half day for both my girls.

In the scrapping world... I've a few new things to post about. First up is an AWESOME Charity Collab for all those people affect by the floods in Queensland.

This kit is available both for download and CD. If you're interested check it out in the SBB shop. Also... eNKay Design has a FABULOUS Collab with MissTiina... Love in the Park:

This kit is available at both Scrapbook Bytes or SugarHill Co stores. I'll be back to show off my layout with this kit. Next up... Jady Day Studio released an OUTSTANDING must have 2 page template - Our Love Story Template:

Here's my page with this must have:

I also used A Girl's Perfect Birthday Bundle and Write On My Cake Alpha by Jady Day Studio. Next... WM[Squared] has this FANTASTIC kit hitting the digi shelves today - Happy Anniversay:

I couldn't resist making a Then and Now page with my Hubby:

Isn't that amazing! We look so young! Now last but certainly not least is the OUT OF THIS WORLD... or at least around this would collab by Boutique Cute Dolls and VW Designs - Wanderlust:

This kit inspired to create about the places I want to see... here's my page:

Well, that's all the new goodies I've got for now. Look for my new blog duds soon as well as some Penny for My Thoughts postings. Until then... Happy Scrapping!!!

New Goodies Friday: January 21, 2011

2011-01-21T09:09:00.020-05:00

Can you believe that January is almost over? Where did it go? I don't know about ya'll, but I'm ready for this Friday... well except I don't having anything special planned for this weekend... I'm just ready for another week. My youngest has been sick all week... it started last Friday and she has continued to run a low grade fever and have a cough... the docs say is a viral thing and will pass eventually. I did see a new release movie that I'd like to see... too bad the title has slipped my mind. I'll have to see if it will play next week during the early seats.

Scrapping-wise... I got a first... check it out:

That's right... I got Layout of the Week for my Cupcake Hybrid cards!

Check out the Collab kits I used to make these precious little darings...

Aren't they the cutest??? Yari of Jady Day Studio was BUSY this week... she has the most adorable collection of Birthday themed kits hitting this on-line shelves today...

These little goodies are JAM PACKED with pattern paper goodness and embellishments galore! She even created this little Frosting Alpha...

Here's my page with the adorable A Girl's Perfect Birthday Collection:

WM[Squared] is at it again with her Be Inspired line of templates... and like always... these are amazing!

Now... this layout isn't what I envisioned when I started it. I just kind of let my mouse have control and I quite like how it turned out...

Also... Gina Miller has a fabulous winter themed collab kit hitting the pad today...

When I first saw this kit... I knew it would be perfect for some winter fun photos I took LAST January... but never could find the right kit to scrap them with...

Well, folks... I do believe that is about all she wrote for today. Here's to next week!

New Goodies Friday: January 14, 2011

2011-01-14T06:52:00.008-05:00

It's Finally Friday ya'll!!!! What plans has everyone made? Me... nothing... well I do hope to get my curtains hung in the living / dinning room.

This week, I was a bit more creative then last... I did get to play with some spectacular goodies that hit the digital shelves today! First up... and in no particular order :)

Kissy Face Papers by Gina Miller:

I made this cute little Calendar tag...

She also has this neat little pack of Alphas...

I'll be making something soon with these... I just love them :)

Next up... Jady Day Studio has this amazingly beautiful Love inspired kit... I just love the color combination... so pretty.

I made a couple of things with this...

and...

Also... I got to work with Jady Day Studio's new Collab with Stolen Moments... FOR THE LOVE OF GIRLS and FOR THE LOVE OF BOYS... available through the SM January Newsletter...

Also... Boutique Cute Dolls released I LIKE KITTY this week...

I made this adorable little brag album...

Well, I believe that's all for today folk... man that was a lot of hybrid projects... I just find them so fun to create... and I have so many more ideas running through my head... you'll just have to FOLLOW me to figure them out... :) Til next time!!!

eNKay Design - CT CALL

2011-01-12T19:38:00.004-05:00

Yep, you heard right, eNKay Design's is looking for some talented, fun and reliable girls to join our team!

Requirements:
2-4 layouts per month with new releases
Post to 4 galleries, DST, SBB, SHCo, and one of your choice
Actively participate in my CT forum
Able to commit to a three month term
Any other help is not required but much appreciated!
I am also looking for members who help with advertising and promotion.

How to apply:
If you like my designs, are committed and motivated, please send me an email with a short bio and link to your most updated gallery. Please also include if you are on any other Creative Teams or have any other commitments and/or if you are interested in helping me in any other way.
Send your email to: ct-call(at)enkay-design(dot)com
Call ends January 31, 2011
Cannot wait to hear from you!

eNKay Design's P52 - Week 1

2011-01-07T19:55:00.004-05:00

Like I mentioned in an earlier post... this year I'm gonna get a real try at eNKay Design's P52 Challenge. Her prompt was SILLINESS I decided to focus on one of the silly things that happened this week... without further ado... here's my first page:

I used eNKay Design's 365 Collection...

available at SBB and SHCO

New Goodies Friday: January 7, 2011

2011-01-07T07:52:00.000-05:00

Hey ya'll! I'm back as promised... with a new look! How do ya like the new duds? I love it!!! I had fun creating it with the New Year's Eve Collab by Sahlin Studio and Valorie Webbins.

Can you believe that it's already 2011??? This week has just flown by... it seems I got so little scrapping done. Matt had the week off and we (or rather "HE") got lots of things done around the house. He painted the Living Room, and I picked out the curtains. Now just a trip to Ikea and I believe my Living Room / Dining Room will be complete. I seriously love what we have done so far... and I'm so excite to be getting to design our space for once. I will admit that it is a tad overwhelming... after living in rentals for so MANY years, I've been afraid to add color to our world. I'll be posting pictures as soon as it's complete.

Now onto the new goodies I played with this week! All Products are like to the stores. First up... by Jady Day Studio, this remarkable kit to honor and remember those love ones we lost... Missing You:

I used this BEAUTIFUL kit to make pages for both my father and my grandmother... whom I loss way to early.

Next up, I got to play with some awesome Inspired By templates from WM[Squared]... and a new set of date stamps.

I just loved the circles in this template and had to use it with Lindsay's snow ball fight she had with Daddy during our snow storm in December.

Those circles total remind me of snow balls flying at me.

Well folks... in Porky Pigs famous words.... "That's All Folks!"

2011-01-06T15:40:00.001-05:00

I've finally completed my look back at 2010 and my goals for 2011 page.

Image is linked... for journaling and credits check it out.

I'm quite happy with it. I really can't believe how much I did accomplish in 2010... and that I've already met one of my goals for 2011... but I'm gonna keep that under my hat for just a bit longer.

I've been busy this week making lots of new goodies... I'll be back tomorrow to share those!

Happy New Year!!!

2011-01-01T09:44:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a safe and joyous New Year's Eve! We are really home bodies... we stayed at the house and watched the ball drop in Times Square on the tv. I guess today's a day for looking back at yesterday and looking toward tomorrow. Have you set your New Year's Resolutions? Me... nope... I wouldn't stick with them anyways if the past is an indicator.

I am going to set me up some new Scrapping Goals. Last year I created this layout with my thoughts of 2009 and my goals for 2010:

The image is linked but the journaling reads:
2009 wasn’t quite the year that I imagined I would have. Due to my illness I didn’t make as many layouts as I hoped to complete by the end of 2009. I think that 2009 was a huge leap forward in growth for my personal style... in the fact that I’m finding my style. I have become more of a “paper look” digital scrapper... and I even like trying to recreate the paper looks I see in the magazines. I am embracing the use of embellishments on my layouts more... I like the look of lots of “bling” on my pages. It is strange that I’m personally so reserved in my lifestyle but in my layouts I go for the gold. I also started making hybrid projects such as cards and signs. I am becoming more comfortable with my program and finding ways to recreate things the more expensive programs can do. For 2010, I I look forward to continuing the growth in style... making many more layouts and hybrid projects... and maybe even make it onto one of my favorite designer’s creative teams. Here’s to what 2010 may hold...

I'm very happy with what I accomplished in 2010 creatively. I'm looking forward to continued growth in 2011... still thinking of those goals to put onto paper. I do believe one of them will be to keep a more active blog... no promises just saying.

This year too... I believe that I'll give eNKay Design's P52 project a real go. If you want to check it out... here's a link to her blog:

Well, I'll be back soon with my goals for 2011... plus a look at a few of my favorite creations of 2010!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2010-12-25T16:48:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas!!!! Finally the big day is here... our presents are opened. Most of the new goodies have been played with already. The girls are all snug on the sofa watching a movie... finally a little peace and quiet on this very exciting day.

I just can't seem to get the hand of this posting business... maybe I'll make it one of my new years resolutions to make a regular posting schedule. I've made lots of new pages... but I'll be back to share with you all soon...

Almost December...

2010-11-29T13:31:00.000-05:00

Wow... has this year just flown by... here it it almost December. What are everyone plans for this Holiday Season? Is anyone doing anything special. For us, we're just staying home this year. I would be nice to see family but the trip would be too rushed with how little girls have for their Holiday Break. I have several thing coming up... first I have a bake sale later this week... I'm so not looking forward to baking something. We have a couple parties to attend... those should be fun! Also, new this year... I working on completing a "25 Days of Christmas" Book. I think my book may be more than 25 days... since we beginning Holiday Traditions the day after Thanksgiving. I hoping to capture more of those little things that go by un-noticed with the rush of day to day life.

Last week, I got to play with some awesome new goodies... First up, I played with WM [Squared] Black Friday *PU* Grab Bag. It's traveled theme... perfect for upcoming holiday travels. All Preview are linked as well as all my layouts :)

Here's my layout with this awesome grab bag:

Next... this is an awesome Grab Bag Collab between WM[Squared] and Graham Like The Cracker

And here's my page... my girls from several Christmas ago:

This week Jady Day Studio has an awesome Grab Bag too... here's a peek:

And here's my page... this kit was just perfect to go with the "Chicken Dress":

Last... but certainly not least is the gorgeous Stuffed Collab with Gina M, Jacque L, and Karah F. Love the colors in this kit... and such fun elements... check out those turkeys:

I love the way this kit looks with my photo... and it even has Maize Corn!

I'm already working on several new goodies to show next week... so stay tuned!