Strawberries & Peppermints

Sketchy Saturday @ Cookin' up Creations 11/26/2011

2011-11-25T22:26:00.000-05:00

My turn to post the challenge at Cookin' up Creations, and I decided to base my Saturday Sketch Challenge on "Ingredients", and my one ingredient was "one" picture!

Reunited

2011-09-01T08:34:00.000-04:00

Well yesterday I made it into my scrap room and actually completed a layout from start to finish....that sooo never happens with me! I have to admit, there are days when being unemployed is rather nice, and if I want to spend the day scrapping I can...provided I can pull myself away from the computer.

Reunited is a very personal layout for me....it's all about our move to Pennsylvania and all of the things that had to happen/change in order for the move to even take place....there is lots of journaling, that I printed out and attached to the back of the layout.

Journaling on the front reads:
Three very long weeks
anticipation building
waving and running towards me
tears of joy - reunited again!

The journaling on the back reads:
Three weeks is what it all boils down too…every three weeks we get to see one another. Today was that day! Mommy hasn’t hugged you or seen you in three weeks and today we were driving to Fredericksburg, Virginia to meet your daddy half way and to pick you up for the week…a five hour trip (holiday weekend/one way) turned into over seven hours. It took us over two and a half hours just to go the final thirty-five miles…but the anticipation of seeing your cute little smile and squeezing you tightly was soooo very worth it. You and your dad had arrived about an hour prior to us and when we pulled into the rest area and I saw you waving and running towards me, I had tears rolling down my face. I was soooo happy at that very moment! I love you Garrett! And I missed you soooo much!

July 1st, 2011 – Fredericksburg, VA

Layout of the Week - August 31, 2011

2011-09-01T08:27:00.000-04:00

Well, as you all know, I own the scrapbooking website Cookin' up Creations, so I never in a million years figured I would every have a layout chosen as Layout of the Week. How exciting that was for me to see that yesterday. Thanks Tamara for picking my "Whoo'd of Thought?" Layout....such great compliments too! You can check them out here!

First Day of Fifth Grade

2011-08-30T09:58:00.000-04:00

Well it's offical - Garrett is a fifth grader. I can hardly believe it myself. Lots of changes for him this year! New kid at a new school, changing classes, and riding the bus....breaks this mommas heart. I was able to get a few pictures of him this morning before we took him to school, and then just one (as I wasn't allowed to walk him to class - as he is a 5th grader, and it wouldn't be "cool") as he was getting out of the car. He'll be riding the bus home this afternoon (another first for him) so I'll be outside with the camera. I will admit that I had a tear or two in my eyes this morning as I wanted to be there for him....but like Shawn says, he's ten years old. I truly do hope that he has a great day and his wonderful personality shines through and he'll have some new friends in no time at all.

Whoo'd of Thought?

2011-08-29T19:12:00.001-04:00

Earlier this month I went to another Stampin' up Club meeting. I have to admit that I am soooo not a card maker, but enjoy going and hanging out with the ladies and making a card or two that I can use for the Birthday Club at Cookin' up Creations. Sadly I was always sending store bought cards, but now I'm able to send handmade ones! Go Tammy!

At each club meeting, you can either make two cards, or one card and one layout...this month, I wanted to do the layout as I thought the owls were absolutely adorable. Beth knows that I'm a slow scrapper and typically need more than an hour or two to do my layouts, so I usually wind up taking my stuff home and finishing it!

Last night, I finally got around to finishing that said layout, and would like to share it with you all (or at least with whoever still actually reads my blog).

Journaling reads: Seriously G - Whoo’d have thought that going to the grocery store could be such a relaxing experience? Not I that’s for sure, but you definitely always find yourself riding in the cart, just enjoying
the ride. Food Lion – Hope Mills, NC August 6th, 2009

And since I'm the oddball and scrap 8-1/2 x 11, the layout had to be adjusted for me....so I kinda had free reign! Plus I have to use patterned paper, I just have too. :) The others did this layout...

All in all, I'm pretty pleased with the way it turned out!

Where oh Where...

2011-08-29T18:59:00.000-04:00

.........has the time gone.

It's been forever since I've actually sat down and posted to my blog. No excuses really, just a serious slacker. I probably suffered a bit of depression there for a little bit too right after the move to Pennsylvania. I had to leave G-man in North Carolina for the summer due to a new parenting arrangement in order to even make this move, and I had to go weeks and weeks without seeing my baby...thank goodness for cell phones, Facebook, and Skype!

Now the Little Man is finally here and starting his first day of fifth grade tomorrow at a new school....as the "new kid". Wish him luck!

This about sums it up....

2011-07-25T11:54:00.002-04:00

I'm thinking when we made the move last month from North Carolina to Pennsylvania, we brought the 100+ degree temperatures with us, as last week it was a total scorcher around here.....uuughhh!

Candy

2011-04-30T15:33:00.000-04:00

We finally had the opportunity to visit the Country Cupboard Restaurant today to have lunch. Unexpectedly, you were given a wooden nickel to take to the candy counter to pick out a few pieces for yourself. Decisions, decisions, decisions.
Lewisburg, Pennsylvania – March 16th, 2011

Oh Mummy!

2011-04-21T22:42:00.003-04:00

This year you were a mummy for Halloween.. It was the absolute coolest costume that I think you have had up til now. You made it a point to play the “mummy” part very well, and even went around dragging your leg behind in true zombie form with lots of moans and groans too. We went trick or treating with your friends Nick & Libby, and then the next day we got all dressed up again and headed to the mall. Even though this was a great costume, we had glue stuck in your hair and legs & arms for days after. Shame on Mommy for using spray glue to hold you all together!
Halloween – October 2010

10 yr Check-up & Physical - Double Digits

2011-04-07T11:13:00.003-04:00

Well even though Little Man has been 10 for over a month now, we had to wait for "the next available" appointment for his physical - April 6th, and finally the day arrived!

The appointment went well....Can't believe how much he's grown! I mean seriously, he finally made it past the 54lb mark and weighed in at 60.6lbs! How cool is that. And speaking of growth, my little man is fast approaching my height!He's up to 53-1/4" inches tall now! Wow is all I can say....My baby isn't much of a baby anymore...

...except when it come to needles...as you can see, even the prick of a finger is an ordeal, but he gets it naturally. Both his dad and I have "needle phobia"...poor G. I tried to take a good picture today, but his dad went along for the visit, and kinda gave G a hard time, so between the tears from the needle, and his dad making fun of him, this is what I got....oh well, it's still scrable!

Scrapbooking Giveaway!!

2011-04-07T10:34:00.003-04:00

Nicole is offering a chance to win a cute scrapbooking kit on her Scrap Me This blog . Go on over and check it out! The deadline for entering is April 30.

Do YOU have What it Takes?

2011-03-30T13:38:00.001-04:00

Our first ever CROP CHEF competition begins Thursday, March 31 on the Cookin' Up Creations forum. This is a non-elimination challenge! Entrants earn points through their participation; and the person with the most points at the end of the competition will be named CROP CHEF!

A new challenge will be posted every Thursday and Monday morning from March 31 through April 18. Each challenge will include a list of ingredients and technique that must be included in your layout. The Thursday challenges will be due on Monday evening; and the Monday challenges, on Thursday evening. Forum members will have the opportunity to vote for their favorites. The top two favorites will get extra points; but EVERYONE receives participation points, and there will be other fun ways to earn extra points.

So ...do YOU have what it takes??? Get ready to COOK UP SOME GOODNESS! The first challenge will be issued Thursday, March 31!

I'm sooooo excited!

2011-02-09T21:54:00.002-05:00

Shawn and I have been discussing getting a smart phone for me for awhile now. Honestly there really isn't any need for one, other than the fact that they are so COOL, and they can do soooo much more than my LG Shine can do...

Well, he called me tonight from work and asked me if I wanted one....and I said heck yeah I do! So as of this evening, I am the proud new owner of a HTC HD2....still reading the manual, but loving it so far!

Stirrin' up a L'il Love Blog Hop Winner....

2011-02-09T17:08:00.002-05:00

is going to be Tracy Suzanne...

Tracy Suzanne said...
Hi Tammy. I've been looking at several of your beautiful pages. They are so pretty. I love the lime and pink together with the Beatles song! You kids are adorable. Thanks for sharing. I'm a new GFC follower as tonasun.

Hugs...Tracy :)
cottonpickincute(at)hotmail(dot)com

February 5, 2011 12:00 AM

Congratulations Tracy....

Please contact me at the Cookin' up Creations website with your address, and I'll get your RAK right out to you!

Also, let me just say thank you to all of you for all of the wonderful comments that have been left on my blog, and for becoming a follower of not only my blog, but of the Cookin' up Creations blog as well!.

Stirrin' Up a Li'l Love Blog Hop

2011-02-02T19:08:00.003-05:00

Hello my fellow Blog Hoppers! Glad you decided to join us, and Welcome to my Blog!

My blog is your sixth (6th) stop on the “Stirrin' Up a Li'l Love at Cookin' Up Creations” Blog Hop! If you are following the links from the beginning of the hop, you should have come from Jo's Blog.

If not, and you wish to participate in the blog hop, please start at the Cookin' Up Creations blog here.

Today, I am excited to share with you a layout that I did of my two beautiful children Jackie & Garrett. Each day these two bring me much happiness and joy, and I am very proud to be their mother!

Since we're focusing on the "love" theme this month I felt like it was only appropriate that I focus on the love these two share for one another....even though they rarely see each other these days (the age difference and all), when the two of them are together, the are quite inseparable. Not to mention, I'm a huge fan of the Beatles, and so are both my children....and this particular song just happened to be playing while I was scrapping....so guess what? Yep, you guessed it....it wound up being my song title! Hope you'll be inspired by my layout to create a "love themed" layout of your own, and use a Song Title as YOUR layout title!

Your next stop on the blog hop will be Barb's Blog. Be sure to leave a comment here, and on each stop on the blog hop. Then, make sure you finish up at the Cookin' Up Creations forum and post that you have completed the hop. Your name will be entered into a drawing for a fabulous prize!

We're also hosting a weekend crop from Friday, February 4 through Sunday, February 6 on the forum – hope you will join in the fun!

Thanks for stopping by, and enjoy the rest of the hop!

In addition to the blog hop prize, I am also offering a RAK of my own! To be entered into my drawing, just become a follower of my blog AND the Cookin' up Creations blog.

Then leave me a comment here to let me know that you did so. I will then draw a winner on Monday February the 7th after work, and post the name here on my blog.

Thanks for stopping by, and enjoy the rest of the hop!

Cookin' up Creations Blog Hop

2011-01-31T17:34:00.003-05:00

It seems only fitting that since I own the site I should include my blog in the upcoming Blog Hop coming this week....

More details to come!

Snow Much Fun

2011-01-15T22:05:00.002-05:00

Got to get some scrapping time in today! Layout #4 of my 2011 Goal of 52 Layouts in 52 Weeks.....

Journaling reads: Outside enjoying a little "snow fun" for like the first? second? third time today?
December 26, 2010

Track #10

2011-01-11T23:10:00.002-05:00

So I scrapped another layout this weekend. My 2011 goal is one a week and so far, I'm right on track!

Track #10

Journaling reads:
Ever since Shawn burnt us a CD with some of our current favorite songs on it, you want to hear track #10 constantly. The song is “All the Right Moves” by One Republic and you first heard it on Band Hero and “loved it” before it ever began to get radio play. Well now, it gets played “everyday”, over and over again for as many times as Mommy can stand to listen to it before changing it. Another favorite on this CD is “Fireflies” by Owl City.
April 15th, 2010

Picture #4 - January 4th, 2011 (Tuesday)

2011-01-05T13:36:00.002-05:00

Back to School

Took these pictures of Little man as I was dropping him off at school this morning. Christmas break is over and he is officially half way through his 4th grade year (year round school)....he wasn't thrilled about going back, but he didn't give me any trouble either....

Picture #3 - January 3rd, 2011 (Monday)

2011-01-05T13:30:00.003-05:00

Today was a family day! Yay! Gotta love those. Garrett hadn't gone back to school yet, I had the day off from work, and Shawn also had they day off! Those days rarely ever happen anymore....

Most of the day was just spent completely lounging around the house, and then we went to Golden Corral for dinner....afterwards we made a stop at the Game Stop to let Garrett spend his Game Stop Gift Card ....he got an X-Box 360 for Chirstmas this year (too add to his other game systems)....

Game of Choice tonight was - Army of Two / 40th Day

Picture #2 - January 2nd, 2011

2011-01-05T13:22:00.003-05:00

Jackie came over today....I miss her terribly, but have to realize that she is an adult now, and out on her own, and that I should be thankful for the time that we do have together....

Anyhoo, her, I and Garrett all went to lunch at Zaxby's, and then came home...where the three of us all sat around the dining room table with our laptops and George (the bird - (more on him later)) hung out.

*Jackie & Darla

Todays picture is of Jackie and her new baby Darla - a Jack Russell puppy. She has a huge, huge heart when it comes to animals and helping them out. Darla is a pound rescue puppy that had ringworms early on, and is now perfectly healthy & happy....

Picture #1 - January 1st, 2011

2011-01-05T13:13:00.005-05:00

My brother Gene recently retired from the Navy - actually last week sometime. He & his family are in the process of moving back here to North Carolina. On Saturday the whole family came over. I had to run some errands, and my nephew Riley wanted to stay with me. Keep in mind I haven't seen this child in over three years, but regardless, he wanted to stay. I had Garrett for a little while today as well, and the two of them played together nicely. Next time, Little Miss Rayne gets to stay with me. It really was a good day, and it reminded me of just how much I truly do miss my family being around.....

*Riley & Garrett

*Riley

Project 365 Picture a Day in 2011

2011-01-05T13:11:00.002-05:00

Well I think I made it half way through the year in 2009, and didn't even dare to attempt it in 2010. This year, the goal is to do it, and finish it. That's the goal. Period.

Another Layout to Share with You.

2011-01-04T09:55:00.003-05:00

Well unfortunately all of you know that once I started my website over a year and a half ago, my blogging & scrapbooking took a back seat. Hopefully with the New Year and a few personal resolutions that I've made, that will all change soon...wish me luck!

Anywoo, I offered to post one of the Blue Plate Special Challenges on the website this past Saturday for Sketchy Saturday. Sandy Liles provided me with the sketch and I created my layout of G-man out in the snow the day after Christmas! It was definitely a fun sketch to use, and I can see myself using it again!

Is it really NOVEMBER already?

2010-11-01T10:08:00.009-04:00

First off I must apologize for my lack of "blogging" these past few months...At one time I was a very faithful blogger, but once my website was up and running that seemed to take me away from posting regularly. I know that a few of you still read my blog as you've emailed me numerous times and told me that it was "time to update" LOL.

Any whoo, I'm posting today. I have a few layouts that I want to share, but I'll post those in another post at another time.

Halloween recap:

Well, we carved our pumpkin finally this past Thursday evening (28th). I hated waiting so long to do it, but with sharing custody and the 80+ degree weather that we've been having, I had to wait until Garrett was home, and still have time to enjoy the carved pumpkin without it rotting due to the extrememly warm weather that we've been having.

On Friday night we went to Arnette Park with a few friends for the Haunted Hayride / Haunted Trail/ and the Haunted House...This is something that we do every year, but unfortunately due to Shawns work schedule this weekend, he was unable to go along with us. This was a rather new experience for us as we've done this every year for as long as I can remember, but Garretts friends had not....his friend Nick opted out at the last minute to not participate, so his mom had to stay behind with him while the three of us (me, Garrett & Libby) did the haunted hayride....then halfway through the haunted trail, Libby about had a panic attack and was done with the trail...it was an ordeal trying to get to the end without her bursting out into complete tears. She really was THAT afraid! So, needless to say, none of us went into the Haunted House. I know Garrett really wanted to go, but he was quite the gentleman, and wouldn't go because he knew Libby was too afraid, and he said that it was ok if we just went home....so we met up with Libbys mom and brother and headed home...

Saturday - Trick or Treating
Again Shawn was working, so we opted to go trick or treating with Jenna, Libby & Nick. This is where Garrett claims his Halloween was ruined. Poor Kid. Originally we were going to his Dads house, and his dad was going to go trick or treating with us, but Garrett said (on Friday) that he wanted to go with Libby & Nick instead. But on Saturday he had changed his mind and wanted to go with his dad instead, and I cannot recall(honest)him telling me this AT ALL! I did run him by his Dads house though, so he could see him in his costume. Strike one, miscommunication.

We usually go to the Trunk or Treat, but once we got in the car and "tried" to make our way there, we realized that it was going to be a complete nightmare just trying to get there, so we turned around and headed back to our friends' house. Strike two for Mommy! Then he was soooo wound up, and excited about trick or treating that he just about came out of his costume. The same costume that took me several hours to make was coming undone in no time at all...of course he was cute about the whole thing. I kept saying Garrett, you're falling apart, and his response was "but Mom, that's what mummies do". Too cute I tell ya. We might have walked around the neighborhood about 25 minutes or so until Garrett decided that he had had enough. Appartently Nick was getting on Garretts nerves somehow (still not a clear answer on that one), and he really wanted to go see his dad, so we said our goodbyes and made our way back to the car...Lots and lots of compliments about his costume, that was completely off his body by the time we made it back to the car. We went home, he took a bath, and I took him to visit with his dad for a bit. He was sad. His Halloween was not turning out how he had planned it. Can't say that I blame him. Halloween is supposed to be one of the many highlights of ones childhood...

And then finally, after we got home and settled in for the evening. This is what happend. Isn't he adorable??

Sunday - Halloween Day

Well, all of the trick or treating festivites were last night, but the mall was actually doing a little something for the kids today, and since Shawn was working (yet again) and had not seen Garrett in his costume, other than by a picture or two, I decided to take Garrett...of course by the time we got there, they were already about out of candy, but that's ok, as we went there mainly to see Shawn. He was able to get a few pieces of candy, lots and lots of compliments, and actually got to play the part....leg dragging, moaning, and arm raised outward. Too, too cute.

I'm Scrapping again....yah!

2010-09-02T13:03:00.001-04:00

I can't remember the last time I actually scrapped a page, but about two weeks ago, I sat down and did three pages all in a weekends time, and even used scraps on the first two!! Go Tammy! I even have another layout started on my table at home! I'm really excited, as I was beginning to think that I've forgotten how to even create a layout.....I'm actually quite thrilled with the results, and am anxious to do a few more....

Filmed In Front of a Live Studio Audience

2010-07-09T14:51:00.007-04:00

Over on my site, I'm posting scrapbook challenges every day, all month long ....all with a "tv theme" to them....

Come on over an play along with us.....

http://www.cookinupcreations.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=97&t=3279

On Vacation with his Dad

2010-07-09T14:41:00.002-04:00

This year my ex-husband took our son to the Everglades for a few days...Garrett had a complete blast and even came home with a few lizards and things from his trip.

And since his dad knows that I'm a scrapper, he took a few pictures for me. He emailed these, but assured me that there were more.

Swimming with Luv Bugs Day Care

2010-06-24T14:47:00.005-04:00

*First picture taken with Shawns phone and sent to me.

Garrett was completely against going swimming last week with Luv Bugs as he really didn’t want anyone to know that he couldn’t swim. He insisted on Shawn going with him….well Shawn went, and as long as he stayed close to Garrett, he was fine, plus the fact that he learned that he wasn’t the only one that couldn’t swim.. By the time they left the pool, he was ready to go back again….

Fast forward to today, one week later, and Garrett was ready. He had his new goggles and his noodle and was ready to go. It’s all he’s talked about all week. Shawn wasn’t able to go and stay this time, but he did stop by and peek in on Garrett on his way to work. He called me and told me that he was jumping off the diving board….I soooooo could not believe it! He said that he had his goggles on, some arm rings, and a float, but that he was doing it!

So, since Sandy and I were already out (ran to Sams for food for our company cookout tomorrow), I asked her if she’d run me over there so I could see for myself, and that way I could take a few pictures.

When I got there, no one was in the pool….everyone was eating cake and ice cream and taking a break… Mrs Sharon said that since I had made a special trip there just to see Garrett, that he could get back in and show me…..and that’s what he did. I asked him about the goggles though, and he said, “I’m doing it without them Mom” and he did! Twice! I was soooo proud of him!

Hope Mills Alligator Caught

2010-06-23T11:17:00.002-04:00

*Posting this for {me} for future scrapping reference! Fayetteville Observer Online - Wednesday June 23, 2010

http://fayobserver.com/articles/2010/06/23/1008591?sac=Local

Published: 10:53 PM, Tue Jun 22, 2010
Hope Mills alligator caught

A staff report

Wildlife officers captured the elusive alligator at the foot of the Hope Mills dam Tuesday evening.

Police Chief Robert Hassell said the gator was spotted by an employee at Big T's about 2:30 p.m. in what's left of Hope Mills Lake, which was drained last week because of problems with the dam.

Cumberland County Animal Services and officials from the N.C. Wildlife Commission captured the gator about 7 p.m., Hassell said.

Wildlife officials planned to release the alligator in the Green Swamp Preserve in Brunswick County.

The 5-foot alligator first appeared in the lake June 9 and was a regular attraction for parkgoers and the curious alike. Town officials closed the lake to swimmers until they came up with a plan for what to do about it.

The alligator was believed to have left the lake when it had to be drained. It was spotted Tuesday for the first time since the lake was emptied.

Sick and it's Dad's Weekend .....Bummer!

2010-04-24T13:41:00.004-04:00

Sometimes I really hate this shared custody thing, and wish that I could have Garrett all the time....especially on days like this. It's his Dads weekend, and he's sick, and guess who he wants to be with?? Yep, you guessed it - Mommy. So I stopped over there a little while ago to check on him and hold him for a few minutes. So glad that he still likes being held as I'm sure those days are numbered now.

Thought I'd take a picture of him, and possibly do a layout with it in the near future.

Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

Online Cyber Crop @ Cookin' up Creations

2010-04-17T20:43:00.000-04:00

For all of my Scrapbooking Friends, come join us at Cookin' up Creations this weekend, as we have our online Card Cyber Crop. Sweet Tooth Scrapbooking will be providing a Gift Certificate to the Winner. Hope you'll come play along with us! http://www.cookinupcreations.com/

Happy Birthday Little Man!

2010-02-24T11:31:00.001-05:00

Can you believe this little man of mine is already nine years old?

Quick Update...

2010-02-20T12:41:00.002-05:00

Ever since I started my site, I've become such an awful, awful blogger....but honestly, not sure that anyone even reads it anymore as most of my family is on Facebook now...

Anyhoo...life is good. Marriage is going strong! Happier than ever...can't really complain!

Garrett will be nine years old in a few days, and Jackie will be 22 shortly there after! Thankful children are happy and healthy too! Did get word from Jackie this morning that her husband Daniel will be home from Haiti by the end of the month though! That's great news for them!

My stepson Tyler, chose to move back home last weekend. Not really sure how I feel about it just yet...I'm happy in a since, but in another not so much. He was sent to live with us for a reason, and I think somewhere along the way that got lost, and he once again, got what he wanted. Shawn is hurt. Not sure how to help him. Time is my only answer at the moment!

Everything else is pretty much routine these days...work, family life and my site...then get up the next day and do it all over again! I am trying to find time to actually "scrapbook" again...

Will try and keep this somewhat updated, but no promises as I've seem to fail at so many other attemps at this.

Winter Wonderland of Embellishments Blog Hop

2010-01-14T20:05:00.005-05:00

Posting this a tad early as I have to work all day tomorrow, and then I'm going to a crop right after work tomorrow night! Yay me...first one I've been too in over five years, so I figure I'm due....

So......welcome to the Cookin' up Creations "Winter Wonderland of Embellishments" Blog Hop..

Here's how to play along with us.

Your first stop for this Hop should have been the Cookin' up Creations Blog. There you will find a complete list of all the participating blogs.

Please Visit all 12 blogs, leaving a comment at each one.

Then return to the Cookin' up Creations Blog to let us know you are finished. This will get you an entry to win one of the two prizes that will be given away at the end of the Blog Hop.

For this blog hop, you should have come here from Jan Mosier's Blog, if not, head back to the Cookin' up Creations Blog and start from the beginning! My blog here should be your 12th and last stop before you head back to the Cookin' up Creations Blog. Once you get back to the main blog, make sure you leave a comment telling us that you've been to every blog on the hop, and have left a comment!

For my challenge, I gonna talk about mini brads.....most everyone that knows me, knows that I can't do a layout without using them....*notice my layouts in my slide show! Guess you can guess what my challenge is going to be......yep, you guessed it! I want you to create a layout using at least Five (5) mini brads on it....how easy is that?? Please upload your creations into the Cookin' up Creations Embellishment Blog Hop Album before Friday January 22, 2010 at 5:00 EST to qualify for the prizes. File size should be no larger than 150Kb....also while you're here, and posting your comment, why not go ahead and tell me what's the "ONE" embellishment that you turn to over and over again??

Here's my example....it's a tad older, but with jury duty and work the past two weeks, I'm running a tad behind....

The next stop on our hop is the last stop, and like I mentioned before, it's the Cookin' up Creations Blog....

Thank you so much for joining in on our Blog Hop! Happy Scrapping!

**There will be two prizes awarded. One prize is for participating in the blog hop and becoming a follower of the Cookin’ up Creations blog . And then there will be a Grand Prize, awarded to the person completing all of the challenges and requirements involved! Both prizes will be Random Drawings!

Winter Wonderland of Embellishments Blog Hop

2010-01-13T13:08:00.002-05:00

Cookin' up Creations will be having our very first Blog Hop this weekend and would love for you to join us!! Our Sponsors for the Month of January are numerous and each has provided us with an enormous supply of "Embellishments", hence the theme of the Blog Hop....be sure to check out the site, as more details are still to come!

Ch{all}enge Masters "Jingle Bell Hop"

2009-12-05T07:52:00.009-05:00

Jingle Bell Hop

Hello & welcome to the first ever Ch{all}enge Masters Holiday Blog Hop.
Here's how to play along with us...
*Your first stop for this hop is the Ch{all}enge Masters Blog. There you will find a complete list of all the participating blogs.
*Visit all 22 blogs, leaving a comment at each one.
*Return to the Ch{all}enge Masters blog to let us know you are finished. This will get you an entry to win a $25 gift card to the online store of your choice.

For this blog hop, you should have come here from Kristi Beisel's Blog, if not, head back to the Ch{all}enge Masters Blog and start from the beginning! My blog here should be your 17th stop.

I have my own RAK to give away too. I am a part of the "Scraplift" team and find myself without "mojo" on numerous occasions, so I have found myself lifting my own layouts from time to time....here is an example....

To qualify for this RAK, all you have to do is this...while leaving your comment here today, tell me what YOU do when you have no "mojo" flowing and you really, really want to be creative....that's it.

The next stop on our hop is Jennifer Campbell's Blog ...

After you have visited all the blogs and posted a comment, please be sure to go back to the Challenge Master's blog and post that you are finished. Thanks for hopping with us!

Thanks so much for joining our Jingle Bell Hop & the Happiest of Holidays to you & yours!!!!

Jingle Bell Hop At Ch{all}enge Masters

2009-12-04T16:15:00.001-05:00

Details to follow .....

Card A Day Challenge at Cookin' up Creations

2009-11-10T14:28:00.003-05:00

Over on my site, we're having a card a day challenge for the entire month of November...hope you'll come check it out and play along with us!

Cookin up Creations

Is this challenge for you? If you have ever had a birthday slip up on you and you had to rush to the store to purchase a card or scramble to make one at the last minute, then this challenge is definitely, for YOU! During the month of November we will be building up our card stash - if you don’t have a card stash now, then you will at the end of the month.

Now for the motivation...how does a $20.00 Gift Certificate to your favorite online store sound?? Sounds pretty good to me, especially this time of year!! And just think, that's $20 for YOU to spend on yourself!!

2009-11-06T14:30:00.003-05:00

Have you visited Paper Secrets today??

It's a new site that I've recently stumbled across, and am really enjoying the inspiration there....and get this, they're having an awesome giveaway! Come on over, visit, and join in on the fun.

http://papersecrets.friendhood.net/ps-challenges-contests-f34/ps-member-giveaway-ends-11-15-t571.htm#2028

Ch{all}enge Masters

2009-11-02T12:42:00.003-05:00

November Challenges are up!

The challenges are up at Ch{all}enge Masters!! And let me tell ya...they are awesome! Come check them out at

http://challengemasters.ning.com/

Here is my sample for the Scraplift Forum...I'm not going to spill the actual challenge...you gotta come visit for that!

Of course I needed a black and white pic, and my printer decided not to like me that day, so I did the best with what I had....will fix it ASAP!

The Flu is Officially in the House!

2009-10-31T08:57:00.002-04:00

Yesterday afternoon was like a blur to me at the moment, as the chain of events all kinda seem to run together...I mostly remamber the 105 fever and taking it over and over again to make sure the thermometer was working properly....and after taking my "normal" temp and then redoing Tylers, we decided he needed to go to the doctor ASAP. I dropped Garrett off at his Dads, and I called Shawn, and told him to meet us. Tyler was hallucinating and that was kinda scaring me too! The media has completely gotten everyone on their toes about the flu, and I was no exception.....we took him to an urgent care who told us with his fever being as high as it was, that we should take him to the ER which is where they were going to send us too!. So we went straight there. Luckily Cape Fear Valley has a pediatrics emergency room and there wasn't a long wait...so now...all of our fingers are crossed that we don't get it. And I get to go get Garrett from his Dads today. For now, I'm off to buy some Lysol and spray this apartment down! Any volunteers to come help?

Arnette Park Haunted Hayride, Trail & House

2009-10-30T11:06:00.006-04:00

Every year since I can remember we’ve taken Garrett on the hayride. Even after Richie and I split up we still took him together in 2007. Then last year Shawn and Tyler went with Garrett and I. Last night, we all four went again…kinda like our “own little tradition” now.

There really is no GOOD time to go. The average wait is anywhere from 30mins to an hour, regardless of what time you get there….this year we decided to try and be in the first crowd of people when they opened at seven. So we arrived at 6:20 prepared! Sodas in hand, and Garrett with his DSi and Tyler with his I-touch!! I managed to take a few pictures…you know, of us waiting and all!!

The hayride for some reason seemed to be a let down for me. Still not really sure why. It’s not because I was prepared, because they really do try to change things up every year! It just wasn’t the same for me….the haunted trail was short, and luckily the people either in front of us or behind us got most of the people jumping out at them. And then when we got to the haunted house, we had to wait, and wait, and then wait some more. Apparently they were having technical difficulties last night and kept apologizing for the wait….and the whole time Garrett is being a chicken butt, and complaining that he had to pee, and of course with no bathroom in site….just what I was afraid of, an 8 year old having the piss scared out of him! LOL Sorry if that offended anyone, I just have always wanted to use that!! Luckily he (and me too) made it to the port-a-potty afterwards!!

Once we made it through the house, the smoke inside was pretty bad. We swallowed a bunch of it, got lost inside it a few times (it was like a pitch dark maze inside with smoke/fog all inside), and probably missed over half of it as we kept going out the exit and going back in only to get lost again….and of course Garrett clinging to me to no end….and he’s not even scared. He’s just playing scared….any woo, we did have fun…then home to do homework (which I should have made him do before we left), a late dinner, showers, and bedtime…

Our Pumpkins - 2009

2009-10-29T11:15:00.004-04:00

Just thought I'd share them....looking forward to scrapping these pics! Going on a Haunted Hayride with the "boys" this evening....looking forward to that! Happy Halloween Everyone!

Scrap Sketch

2009-10-28T23:12:00.003-04:00

As most anyone who knows me knows, I absolutely love Stephanie's sketches....well now I get to use them even more often, and I actually have the opportunity to be one of her newest Creative Team Members....I really am excited about this. So if you haven't had a chance yet, make sure you go and check out her sketches!!
Scrap Sketch

Ch{all}enge Masters Very First Design Team!!

2009-10-26T10:31:00.003-04:00

WOO HOO I made it....my first Design Team in a very long time, and I am so looking forward to getting back into the groove of things! Hope you'll come play with us!
Ch{all}enge Masters

Scraplift – *Elizabeth Rosemond - Tammy Folk

Gotta love scraplifting....

Look What I Got from Colorbok!

2009-10-23T14:08:00.002-04:00

Sometimes I participate in online surveys for Colorbok and they offer the first x number of people who respond a gift....

I was lucky enough to be one of those "lucky" ones this time! My package finally arrived and was delivered by Fed Ex! I had no idea what the gift would be until I opened the box....The kit has over 1,000 pieces and it even came with a matching 12x12 album.

Live Chat with Darcy McNairy from Pink Persimmon Stamps

2009-10-21T10:09:00.002-04:00

I wanted to let you all know that we are having a live chat at Cookin' up Creations with Darcy McNairy, the Owner of Pink Persimmon Stamps.

The chat is scheduled for Friday at 9:00 EST on October 23rd, 2009. So mark your calenders!!

We're looking forward to having Darcy on the site with us, and I hope that you'll join us for this awesome event.....now go, spread the word!

Cookin' up Creations

Pink Persimmon Stamps

Ch{all}enge Masters

2009-10-13T15:37:00.004-04:00

A few of the members on my site, are also on another site called
Ch{all}enge Masters. I've been to the site and registered, and it looks like it's going to be a lot of fun...lots of different challenges each month. Hopefully as I participate there, I'll be able to bring some new knowledge as well as techniques to my own site, so I'm very excited about that as well.

So, the reason for my post....you ask? Well let me just say this, they have a design team call out now!! And I wanted to give all my scrapbooking friends a heads up!

Ch{all}enge Masters

Day #272 - September 29, 2009

2009-09-29T10:19:00.000-04:00

A Wedding Present from Shawn's Parents

This came in the mail yesterday from Shawns Mom & Dad and I immediately fell in love with it...and had the perfect place for it - right beside the picture of them when they were a very young couple. My only hope is that Shawn and I will continue to have the relationship that we have now, and that I can continue to look at his parents' 45+ year marriage and tell Shawn that I want what they have. Life is good for me today and I am very happy, as I celebrate eleven days now of being Mrs Shawn Patrick Folk...

Day #271 - September 28, 2009

2009-09-29T10:04:00.000-04:00

Facebook Addiction...

Okay, so this is bad. I have to admit that I am completely addicted to the games on Facebook, but now my son is too....or at least one of them anyways. Fish World is his game of choice....easy enough to do...buy tanks, clean tanks, buy fish, feed fish....fish grow up, you sell the fish and then you start over again. And since he's always wanting to use the laptop, I moved it to the dining room table for him....so now he can play whenever he wants. I think he's actually up to 14 tanks now....and since he's going to his Dads tomorrow for 2 days, guess who gets to clean those 14 tanks and feed all those fish....yep, you guessed it....ME!

Day #270 - September 27, 2009

2009-09-27T15:50:00.000-04:00

The Mattress on the Floor

Okay, so yesterday when Garrett and I came home from Applebee's, Shawn had our mattress on the living room floor...Why you ask?? Well, Shawn has some back problems and they are a constant thing for him, as well as the pain, and lately it's been getting worse. We think the bed isn't helping matters, as here lately I've been waking up with lower back pain myself. We're not really sure whether it's the mattress or the box springs or the whole thing....but since beds are expensive, we're going to try a few things first before we make that large purchase! Last night we actually slept on the mattress just as you see it...yep, on the floor and in the living room. I have to admit that I slept well and woke with no back pain, and Shawn slept better too...so last night was the first test....not sure what we're doing tonight though.

The reason for the picture today is this...Garrett has been jumping on the mattress all day and has stuffed the pillows between the sectional and the mattress so he doesn't "hurt himself" he said...Can't help but laugh at him for having some fun....as I'm typing this, he's preparing to lay down on the floor with the covers (ours and all of his) and read another AR book....maybe I'll run take another picture.

Day #269 - September 26, 2009

2009-09-27T14:56:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was a busy day...

First off, it was Shawn's 41st birthday! Happy Birthday Baby!!

Secondly, Garrett and I went to Applebee's first thing in the morning for a fundraiser that my ex-mother in law was having....so I took a picture or two there....It was a "flapjack" type deal and you got all the pancakes, sausage and bacon that you could eat.....and I swear that Garrett probably ate about 15 slices of bacon today!
Garrett with his Uncle Steven, and his dog Holly.

Then we came home and just hung out for awhile until Shawn had to go to work....then Jackie came over for awhile, and convinced us that we needed to go downtown and watch Richie Play (my ex). He's in a Bravarian Brass Band, and they were playing during the International Folk Festival that's going on this weekend. So we headed that way, in the drizzling rain (went on all day) and went to listen for about the last half hour or so....funny thing is, they played the "chicken dance" and my "chicken" son actually decided to do it, and I didn't have my camera...so I used my cell phone.....not the greatest pictures, but hey, I at least got to document the event! He did it quite well too! I was very proud of him!

Then afterwards, Richie came to pick Garrett up, and I sat around watching movies until Shawn got off work....and since it was his birthday, I was taking him out to dinner...The guys he works with gave him a sort of surprise party and they had cheesecake...so by the time he got to me, he wasn't very hungry, but we both managed to have a nice big salad from Ruby Tuesdays...

Nothing like getting your picture taken with a mouthful of food. Sorry Shawn! You know I love ya!
Then Shawn came home and still managed to find room for cake and ice cream...I swear, he's 41 today and is still a growing boy! LOL

Today is the day....

2009-09-18T14:51:00.003-04:00

that I am going to marry this man...

...and become a step mom to two great kids, Tyler and Sarah...and this will be my family. I am truly, truly happy!

Marriage License

2009-09-16T12:49:00.001-04:00

Well...it's done. Shawn and I went this morning to apply for one. Rings have been bought too....just waiting for Friday! :)

Picture #210 - July 29, 2009

2009-09-01T15:01:00.000-04:00

Library for AR Books

With the new year starting and the Accelrated Reading proogram starting as well, we were already 2 weeks behind....so I told Richie I was taking Garrett to the library with me (even though it was his day), and that I would drop him off when we finished picking out some books.....so today, we went to the Bordeaux Library to check out some AR books...

Picture #209 - July 28, 2009

2009-09-01T14:58:00.000-04:00

Subway

Shawn and I are always taking advantage (and I do mean always) of the $5.00 footlong special that Subway has. We probably eat there at least twice a week now and tonight was one of those nights!

Too Funny Not to Share

2009-08-27T13:30:00.001-04:00

Another Dream Shattered!

Finally, someone has managed to photograph the Pot at the end of the rainbow!!!
Wouldn't you know it!

Day #208 - Picture #208 Monday, July 27, 2009

2009-07-28T14:20:00.000-04:00

Captain Underpants

is Garretts new fascination, now that school has started back. I've been pushing reading again, since we're gonna be taking AR Tests again this year as well....his books of choice these days are the Captain Underpants books, but to my knowledge they're not on the AR list......bummer. But hey, at least he's reading!

Day #207 - Picture #207 Sunday, July 26, 2009

2009-07-28T14:15:00.000-04:00

Hanging Out

Now that Jackie is staying with us until hers and Daniels apartment is ready, and they get some money from the military, Jackie is having to share Garrets bedroom with him. So every chance that Garrett gets to go into his room and play on his computer and watch his tv, he does....and today was one of those days. Jackie and Daniel were gone ALL day and Garrett lived in his room ALL day too....I just have to keep reminding him that this is only temperary.

Picture #206 - Day #206 Saturday July 23rd, 2009

2009-07-28T14:00:00.000-04:00

Flat Tire

Well my ex-husbands newest hobby is restoring old bicycles...and I was the recepient of one of these bikes so Garrett and I could ride together....well after about an hour of hard core chasing each other all over the funeral home parking lot....I blew a tire....BIG TIME! Richie said the tire was so old that it was probably dry rotted. Regardless, our fun ended real quickly...Garrett was SO happy TO FINALLY have someone to ride bikes with too....tire will be fixed by this upcoming Tuesday though!

Picture #205 - Day #205 Friday July 24th, 2009

2009-07-28T13:55:00.000-04:00

My 40th Birthday.

Can't believe I'm posting a picture of myself in my pajamas and no make up on, but hey it was late when we finally got around to doing cake and ice cream tonight. Had to wait for the Newlyweds to get here! Love ya Jackie!

Picture #204 - Day #204 Thursday, July 23rd, 2009

2009-07-28T13:51:00.000-04:00

Garrett Pumps Gas.....Again!

Yep, he's really feeling like a big kid now.....$10.01 again today, and he seriously concentrated on trying to stop at $10.00 even...

Picture #203- Day #203 Wednesday July 22, 2009

2009-07-22T14:48:00.000-04:00

Renewing my Drivers License

So nothing like waiting til the last minute to get your drivers license renewed!! And yep, you guessed it, mine expires this coming Friday on my "40th" birthday....but luckily I went this morning, and handled it. I'm good to go now for another eight years.

Picture #202 - Day #202 Tuesday July 21, 2009

2009-07-22T14:46:00.000-04:00

Mother and Daughter Dinner at Red Robin (Jackie's Treat)

**Thanks again Jackie

Picture #201 - Day #201 Monday July 20, 2009

2009-07-22T14:45:00.000-04:00

Garrett Pumps Gas for the First Time

Catch up time..

2009-07-22T14:38:00.000-04:00

okay, so it's pretty obvious that I'm gonna have a hard time catching up here, so I'm just gonna start with Mondays picture and move forward.

I do indeed have all of my pictures taken, just not documented here on the blog...so for all you followers, I do apologize for that...and to Jackie as well, who is always nagging me to update, update, update!!

Day #165 - Picture #165 (Sunday)

2009-07-11T15:36:00.000-04:00

Cookin' up Creations

My website has only been live for a couple of days now, but it is jumping beyond belief! I am soooo loving it!

Day #164 - Picture #164 (Saturday)

2009-07-11T15:26:00.000-04:00

Planting Cactus With Shawn

Day #163 - Picture #163 (Friday)

2009-06-30T21:47:00.000-04:00

Dinner ar Burger King....again (for Garrett)

When asked what he wanted for dinner tonight, Garrett of course said Burger King, when I asked why, he said cuz of the extra pickles Mom....so we went through drive thru and got him his cheeseburger with "extra pickles"

Day #162 - Picture #162 (Thursday)

2009-06-30T21:34:00.000-04:00

Dinner at Burker King

Cuz the obsessions with Burger King Cheeseburgers continues, not to mention, they have Pokemon cards in the Kids Meals.

Day #161 - Picture #161 (Wednesday)

2009-06-30T21:33:00.000-04:00

Pictures from Richie....will post as soon as he emails them to me.

Day #160 - Picture #160 (Tuesday)

2009-06-30T21:26:00.000-04:00

Fresh Milk and Oreos

My Favorite Night Time Snack (after ice cream of course!)

It's Contest Time....Count 'em up Challenge!

2009-06-25T13:15:00.000-04:00

Cookin' up Creations invites you to the Count 'em up Challenge. This challenge will run for the entire month of July and will be chocked full of challenges, games, and lots and lots of fun! Not only will there be daily challenges, there will also be weekly challenges, photo challenges, and a month long challenge as well!

Don't sweat it though... just because challenges are posted everyday doesn't mean you have to scrap everyday! You will earn points for every challenge you complete... so you can scrap for the entire month, rak up those points and still be a winner at the end of the month!

Sign ups begin June 25th and end on July 5th. So grab a friend and tell them it's time to get their summer scrap on!

The first challenge will be posted on July 1 and every day a new one will be posted... each one worth a variety of points!

PRIZES, PRIZES, PRIZES!!!! Come scrap with us and you may be a winner! This is one summer challenge where there's no sweating involved. You definitely won't want to miss this one!

Day #159 - Picture #159 (Monday)

2009-06-20T16:26:00.000-04:00

Riding Bikes Down at the Funeral Home....again

Day #158 - Picture #158 (Sunday)

2009-06-20T16:21:00.000-04:00

Not Feeling So Well

When Richie brought Garrett home today, he said that they had been fishing all day and that Garrett was tired, and needed a bath....what he didn't mention was that Garrett wasn't feeling well either. I'm pretty confident that he had just gotten a little to hot during the day because after throwing up, he decided that he was hungry and wanted something to eat.

Day #157 - Picture #157 (Saturday)

2009-06-20T16:15:00.000-04:00

My Southern Comfort Food of Choice

To some, this is gross, nasty, and even disgusting. For me, it's my comfort food. I rarely make it, but when I do, I kinda eat way toooo much of it. It's nothing but great northern beans, cooked with a ham hock, and then ketchup and onions to taste. Yummy!

Day #156 - Picture #156 (Friday)

2009-06-20T16:08:00.000-04:00

Last Day of School / 2nd Grade

Best I could get this morning....I tried to take a few before we left for school but Garrett wasn't really very cooperative...then on the way to school, I managed to take another picture while waiting at the red light....and then finally I got one as he was walking away from the car....was hoping for a few better ones, but it was raining and I didn't want to get the camera wet....I am grateful for what I was able to get though!

Day #155 - Picture #155 (Thursday)

2009-06-20T16:02:00.000-04:00

Awards Ceremony at School (End of Year)

This was not your typical awards ceremony. Ms Pownall and the rest of the school all had their awards ceremonies in the classroom, with the parents present, and a party afterwards. Shawn and I were both able to attend, and we watched as Garrett got his end of the year awards. Go Garrett!! Then of course, I had to make sure that I got a picture of Garrett with his teacher, Ms. Pownall.

Mini Online Crop

2009-06-15T21:23:00.002-04:00

WHEN Friday June 19th – Saturday June 20th
www.cookinupcreations.com
Beginning @ 6:00 pm EST on Friday and Ending @ 9:00 EST Saturday

Cookin’ Up Creations is a brand new online community joined together to share in our common passion for scrapbooking. Our goal is to creatively preserve treasured memories while sharing fun, friendship and inspiration. New members are always welcome. And we’re looking for you!! That’s why this Friday night we’re going to have our very first “mini online crop”. The crop will be hosted by our current members, and will include such activities as challenges, games, prizes, socializing, and lots & lots of fun! So grab your apron and start cookin’ up your scrapbooking creations ! Bon Appetite!!

Day #154 - Picture #154 (Wednesday)

2009-06-15T19:32:00.000-04:00

The New Kitty

Per Garretts request this evening, I took some pictures of him with the new kitty that he and his dad got from someone on Craigslist...she really is an adoreable kitten...very dark in color and too cute for words.

Day # 153 - Picture #153 (Tuesday)

2009-06-15T19:18:00.000-04:00

Tyler's Chorus Performance

Tonight Shawn and I drove to Rosewood, North Carolina where his son Tyler lives. He was having his year end chorus perfermance. It was help in the Middle School Gym, and the lighting was completely awful, so there were no good pictures taken by me! Shawn's ex-wife did take a few and hopefully they come out better than mine....we're waiting to see! Did I mention that it was in the gym? OMG the temperature in that place was completely stifling...just imagine, 90+ degrees outside, and no A/C on the inside with 100+ people...

Day # 152 - Picture #152 (Monday)

2009-06-15T19:06:00.000-04:00

Hope Mills Lake ...yet again. It wears a boy OUT!

Tonight after work, we ran to the Food Lion to get a few things and a swimming noodle for Garrett (I'm sure they have a name), and then we took him to Hope Mills Lake again for about an hour...We changed his clothes in the car and ran to Ci Ci's for a quick dinner of pizza. Once we got home, we did our typical nightly routine and Garrett went to bed reading an AR book....apparantly the activities of the evening wore him out as he was asleep within three minutes of going to bed. Gotta love them when they're sleeping!

Day # 151 - Picture #151 (Sunday)

2009-06-15T19:00:00.000-04:00

Hope Mills Lake...again!

Today we decided to take Garrett to the Lake again. He had so much fun yesterday that he requested we go back...so why not right? We waited til later in the evening for it too cool off a bit, and then stayed there for a little over an hour.

My New Scrapbooking Website - Cookin' Up Creations

2009-06-13T09:57:00.003-04:00

Woo Hoo!! We've finally go it up and running now (thank you Shawn, you know I love ya ;)) and the message board and gallery are fully functional.....we're still trying to fine tune all the little things (i.e. colors and links) but it's up and live! Yeah baby....

So please come on over and check us out! Register too, and become eligible for our Grand Opening Prize Giveaway!

www.cookinupcreations.com

Look What I WON!!

2009-06-09T20:33:00.001-04:00

I soooo totally never win anything, but that was not the case this time!! Over at Noteable I won this great Grand Opening Prize by Fancy Pants! I'm soooo excited, and I can't wait to play with the papers!!

If you haven't had a chance, please go check out her new monthly kits geared towards journaling! Thanks again Shawna for the awesome prize!!

Update

2009-06-09T20:26:00.000-04:00

Amy and Sandee-
I promise you that I'm still taking my pictures everyday...just got a little behind here with the posting....between school being out, Jackie being home from school, Shawn being home a lot more, Facebook & Farm Town, and now with the creation of my own scrapbooking website, I've just been a little bit pre-occupied....will get to catching up ASAP!

Day #150 - Picture #150 (Saturday)

2009-06-06T16:02:00.000-04:00

Hope Mills Lake

Tonight we decided to take Garrett to Hope Mills Lake and let him swim for a bit. Even at 7:00pm it was still pretty hot out, and the lake was still a bit crowded, but Garrett didn't care. He had a blast and even found some friends that he goes to After School Care with to play with...he came out shivering but happy as can be.

Day #149 - Picture #149 (Friday)

2009-06-06T15:52:00.000-04:00

Bathtub Toys

So Garrett is at it again....this time, instead of using the bathroom sink, he's using the entire tub! Good thing we rarely use that bathroom! Any hoo, just in a day or so these things have already tripled in size, and are still growing....whatever will they think of next!

Day #148 - Picture #148 (Thursday)

2009-06-06T15:45:00.000-04:00

Nintendo DSi

Okay, so Garrett's DS finally broke enough to warrant the purchase of a new one! So he took all his money that he'd saved and did just that, bought himself a new one! The DSi (and don't forget to say the "I")...is completely cool, and for Garrett, very hard to put down.

Day #147 - Picture #147 (Wednesday)

2009-05-28T13:12:00.000-04:00

Doing What I Do Best

....talking on the phone (to my brother Greg tonight) and browsing the internet. Tonight I was at a loss for picture ideas. Not really much going on these days, and as the evening progressed I mentioned to Shawn that I didn't have a picture yet for today....so guess what?? He handled it for me. So picture for today was taken by Shawn....me (looking oh so lovely - NOT!) gabbing away on the phone and online at the same time (probably Farm Town too)! LOL Multi-tasking at it's best I tell ya!

Day #144 - Picture #144 (Sunday)

2009-05-28T13:09:00.002-04:00

Garrett Eats Spaghetti

OMG we had spaghetti for dinner tonight and Garrett actually asked to have some. I know not a big deal to most people, but for Garrett it is. He likes plain noodles with margerine. Sometimes we can get him to eat it with a tad bit of sauce (no meat and heaven forbid, no chunks of anything in it)!! But tonight, Jackie and Daniel were over for dinner, and out of the blue Garrett said, "okay I'll have some", and he did and he ate it ALL! Even told Shawn it was good, as Shawn was the cook tonight! Maybe times are a changin' LOL!!

Day #145 - Picture #145 (Monday)

2009-05-28T13:09:00.001-04:00

Blanket Fort (According to Garrett)

Today, I think Garrett had every single sheet, blanket, and afghan that we own on the futon playing with them. Said he was making a fort! He probably spent three plus hours playing like this (gave me more Farm Town time LOL), and we just let him be....every once in awhile he'd want one of us to come look at what he had done, but for the most part, he just laid there and played...can't complain though, as we all did it as a child!

Day #146 - Picture #146 (Tuesday)

2009-05-28T13:09:00.000-04:00

Stephen Key - Duma Key

Tonight Shawn and I went to the library to get Garrett a few more AR books to last him the remainder of the school year. While we were there, I decided to go ahead and check out a book for me as well. I really miss reading, and after reading Twilight, I realized just how much, so I figured I get a book by an author that I love...and Stephen King it was! Really looking forward to getting started on this one!

Day #143 - Picture #143 (Saturday)

2009-05-28T13:08:00.000-04:00

Farm Town

Just in a weeks time, I have quickly become addiced to this game. I mean all day long I'm on Farm Town checking my crops, harvesting and replowing & planting. The sad thing is, now I have Shawn addicted to it as well....and Jackie too! How crazy is that! Hopefully the thrill of it will wear off soon because I have other stuff that I really need to be doing!

Kris Allen: Heartless

2009-05-24T22:37:00.002-04:00

Okay, so I'm a few days late with this, but stumbled across this video tonight, and it made me smile all over again! Made all of those 1000+ text messages over the past season soooo worth it!
Want more American Idol videos? Click here.

Economic Stimulus Plan

2009-05-23T18:37:00.004-04:00

Wanna have some fun this June? Well come on over to Live Imagine Create and join in on our Contest!!

“Economic Savings Plan”
Using your Stash to Save Some Green
$ Each week you will be given a list of four "stash" items to use on a layout and patterned paper. Each one of those items is worth one ballot. You DO NOT have to have all four items on the list... just use what you do have. (For example if I say brads, rubons, mesh... and you only have brads, then you would use them and in turn receive one ballot.) If you have none of the items on the list, you can use a "bailout pass", and join in again on the next weeks challenge.

$ If you use all four items plus the patterned paper by the listed manufacturer on the layout you will receive one extra weekly ballot for each week that you do.

$ The “Bailout” Pass - Each player is granted two "Bailout Passes". Which means you can miss up to two of the weekly challenges before you are disqualified. If you do not have the items on the 'Savings Plan' list, or if you've just had a particularly busy week and don't feel you will make the deadline, all you have to do is comment in that weeks challenge thread by Thursday that you are using a Bailout Pass for that week. If you fail to complete a challenge, and you don't post your desire to use a Bailout Pass by Thursday, you will automatically be eliminated.

$ Layouts must be uploaded to the gallery, and then linked back to the appropirate weeks link, by the designated due date. In your title, include which week of the challenge your layout is for. (i.e. "Your Title - challenge week 1"). In the comments area of your upload, include a list of what items you used from the "stash" list. You must also post a link in the weekly thread of your layout with the list of items you used from the “stash” list.

$ Sign Ups are open until May 30th. You must be a registered member of the forum to participate, with a minimum of 20 posts. The contest itself runs from June 1st through the week of June 29th, with challenges being posted every Monday. **Please follow instructions carefully** I will be checking each weekly layout for the items listed, if you are unclear on something, don't hesitate to ask!

$ All ballots will go into a drawing at the end of the contest, and the winning participant will receive a kit of scrapbooking supplies. Winner will be posted on Monday July 6th!

Day #142 - Picture #142 (Friday)

2009-05-23T15:10:00.000-04:00

Morning Wood

I realize that some people may find this offensive, but I on the other hand, get a good chuckle out of this t-shirt every single time that Shawn wears it...so much so that sometimes I like to think that he wears it for me....Of course I know he doesn't but still....thought it would be a cute idea to document one of my favorites today - Shawn's T-shirt!

Day #141 - Picture #141 (Thursday)

2009-05-23T15:00:00.000-04:00

Lunch with Garrett

Today Shawn and I completely surprised Garrett at school, and had lunch with him! He was so cute when he saw us waiting for him, that he left the line that his class was standing in and ran to me and hugged me....did my heart good I tell you. Friend of choice today was Sidney. Very cute little boy, but also very quiet. The menu today was hot dogs, french fries, fresh strawberries and some type of vegetable mix (broccoli, carrots, & califlower. I have to admit that is wasn't so bad...could've used some salt and margarine with the vegetables though!

Day #140 - Picture #140 (Wednesday)

2009-05-20T18:45:00.000-04:00

$117.00 and Counting

So Garrett and his dad have this change jar that has finally been filled....over the past several months Richie has told Garrett that when it was full, that the money was his! Well today, they spent the afternoon counting the money and rolling it up....when I left Garrett to come home this evening, they were up to $117.00 and they were still counting....Garretts plan for the $$?? a new Nintendo DS. of course! :)