Scrap Addict

Bridging to Brownies

2011-05-23T06:43:00.000-05:00

Figuring out how I wanted to do her bridging from Daisy to Brownie in Girl Scouts was tough. I finally got through my mental block and got it done. I like how the pocket holds her certificate and the program. I used K&Co scout paper and embellishments. I am glad I got this one done since she is about to bridge from Brownies to Junior.

The Boys

2011-05-21T11:20:00.001-05:00

I love these pictures of my brother with his sons. Alex, Andrew and Aidan are so cute and such good kids. I used the cricut to cut the patterned paper into the label and quickutz border dies for the dots. I stamped the journaling spot and then cut it out with spellbinders nesting dies. I wrote who what where and viola I was done. The colors remind me of young active boys and I love how it turned out.

Knitting 101

2011-05-20T06:45:00.000-05:00

I am finally getting around to posting some mostly finished layouts I did at my February retreat. You probably can't tell but the paper has a very crafty feel which is perfect for this layout of mom teaching Ashleigh how to knit. I still need to do the journaling which is the story of my crafty life but I really like the simplicity of this one.

Ice Skating??

2011-02-04T12:06:00.004-06:00

We have had some super crazy weather here is Lewisville all week. Ashleigh and David have been home since Tuesday and I have worked just two days this week (Monday and Thursday). We have had ice and freezing temperatures. To add to our messy roads and yards it snowed today. Due to the temperature not getting above freezing it looks like it will stick around for a full day. Just to further illustrate how icy it is, David pulled out his ice skates and took a spin on the sidewalk and street yesterday! It is just unbelievable.

Art Exhibit

2011-02-01T10:43:00.000-06:00

The Lewisville Independent School District has an art exhibit in town showcasing the Elementary kids art work. They chose about 20 kids from each school. Ashleigh's Crazy Craziness was picked!! David and I are so proud of her. She was embarrassed to go see it but we loved it. I was amazed by all varied pieces from these talented kids. Once we get her catcus home, we are framing it and hanging it up.

Loree

Pinkies Up!

2011-01-22T08:10:00.000-06:00

On my quest to make 2011 the year I finally finish gobs of layouts, I took a day off the first week of January to stay home and scrap. They next few posts of layouts are just a sampling of what I was able to complete. In all cases it was a matter of getting the journaling down. To accomplish my goal I have determined I am going to need to hand write some of my journaling. I am okay with this and know it will be appreciated once I am gone.

I love the way this layout turned out. I will never forget how it took me three different retreats to get the tea put and cups put together. That is from a special Quickutz die which unfortunately does not come with directions. Needless to say it was worth the time and effort and I have another page in mind for them. Luckily I took picture of assembly so it should not take as long!

Loree

Valentine Cookies

2011-01-22T08:06:00.001-06:00

I bought the felt embellishments just for this page. I love them and the soft touch they added.

Winter Snow

2011-01-22T07:58:00.010-06:00

I love how this turned out. The title was cut on my cricut while the snowflake border is another custom die from Quicktuz. I blinged it up and never looked back. I will work on finding other uses for that snowflake border because it is so beautiful!

Loree

Disney 2011

2011-01-18T11:21:00.007-06:00

I know I have been MIA on my blog. It has been a year where I have not scrapped as much as I wanted. However, I have big plans for 2011 starting with a retreat in February.

Anyway, on to vacation pictures. My manta for this Disney trip was "Disney is the Happiest Place on Earth". It really is my happy place unless I am scrapping. I love the decorations, sights and spending time with my family. I have included a few of my favorite pictures. David went this time specifically to ride the rides with Ashleigh and they had fun cramming in as many as they could.

The first couple of days they still had the holiday decorations up which were beautiful. On Wednesday, they were down so I we have pictures with decorations and without!

I got to watch all the parades I wanted and do the things I was not able to do last time. Mom was a gem and watched Ashleigh so David and I could go have dinner at this restaurant I really wanted to go to. It is Narcoosee at the Grand Floridian and it was divine!

We shopped, walked, ate and had lots of fun. It is exhausting but well worth the tired. I hope to be able to go back in 4 years with my brother and his family. I am excited to see how the boys react the first time they see it. There is just something magical about it.

Later

Loree

Daycare Holiday Show

2010-12-16T18:54:00.008-06:00

Ashleigh has been taking guitar lessons since September. She has done so well and learned so quickly. Her instructor, Philipe, says she is a joy to teach. Well, at Ashleigh's daycare the Children's Courtyard they do seasonal shows with the holiday show last night. On Tuesday Ashleigh decided she wanted to participate. Philipe was game and came up just for the show to play with Ashleigh. They performed Overboard by Justin Bieber. They decided that Ashleigh should just sing since she did not quite have down the sign and play thing yet. Two of Ashleigh's friends danced behind them which was just distracting to the crowd. However, Ashleigh did not stop or get flustered when the kids laughed at Haley and Krissy. I can not even express how proud of Ashleigh I am. Just this past summer she would not sing at Girl Scout day camp. They almost called me to get her she was crying so much. For her to do this and do so well is amazing to me. I am in awe of my little girl :)

Trip to Louisiana

2010-07-11T10:45:00.004-05:00

I spent the week of July 4th down home visiting with family. Ashleigh and I got to see everyone and had a good time. Ashleigh stayed with mom and John so mom can teach her how to quilt while I can back home. Last I heard, they have been making good progress and I have a feeling Ashleigh will be hooked on quilting. I can't really blame her :)

I will say that not having Ashleigh around this weekend has been different. She has gone on sleepovers before but to wake up and know she will not be home has been bizarre. Having that third person in the house does add some noise and I find myself thinking it is too quiet. I am sure that once I get used to it, she will be back. I miss her but know she is having the time of her life making memories that will last forever.

I did not get my camera out enough but here are a few pictures.

Loree Leigh

Vinyl

2010-05-24T08:06:00.002-05:00

We have some neighbors who have a daughter Ashleigh's age. In the course of play dates and such, I have come to learn that Tori's grandmother scrapbooks and loves Twilight. She has mastered the vinyl and made this for her car. I think it is funny and she offered to make me one or one with another saying. I am pretty sure David objects to me putting Edward on my car but we shall see :)

Another crafty thing

2010-05-24T08:01:00.002-05:00

So Linda in my office moved into a new house this spring. She asked me to make her a No Soliciting sign for her door. I agreed since I knew it would not take long and I do love Linda (most days). I used my Gypsy to find the frame and insert which I cut on my expressions machine. I had the dog bone paper from an old project. I used it for the letters as well which I cut using my Quickutz Lemonade font. I also had some left over stickers from that project which I added to just give it a little more pizazz. I like how it turned out and hope she does too. Linda's baby is her dog Bunny so I thought she would appreciate the dog theme.

Loree

I was feeling crafty

2010-05-17T14:34:00.008-05:00

I have a stack of finished layouts I need to take pictures of and post but this past weekend I was feeling crafty. I have been wanting to try vinyl with my cricut machine for a while and finally got brave enough to try it. I started with a purple metal bucket for Ashleigh's teacher Mrs Jackson. After several attempts of putting her name on the bucket I decided that it was just going to have to be the J. I added some swirls and flowers and I think it turned out cute. I am thinking about adding buttons or bling for the center of the flowers to give it a little punch.

The next thing I decided to do was some glass etching using the vinyl. I think my O should have been bigger and that I should have left the cream on longer but think it turned out well overall. Especially since this was my first attempt.

You can't see it real well but I will certainly get better at it in the future. I have lots of ideas running around in my head. Later.

Cricut Fun

2010-05-03T19:47:00.003-05:00

Grace spent the night and I decided it was time to pull out my two new cricut cartridges Once Upon a Princess and Create a Critter. Grace and Ashleigh got to pick which critter or princess, colors and help with the cuts. We all had a blast making all the cool shapes from those cartridges.

Life can change on a dime

2010-03-22T07:42:00.003-05:00

OMG OMG OMG David has a job!!! He actually starts today. I think the entire process took a week and a half. I don't know much since I am in tax busy season but I know someone wants to pay him to show up everyday. Really, that is all I need to know. When I know more, you will know more. Just a hint, it probably won't be until after April 15th :)

Phantom of the Opera

2010-02-21T11:51:00.003-06:00

Emily and I went to see Phantom yesterday. I have gotten pretty darn good at taking photos of us holding the camera out. I really like this picture of us and love that the chandelier is in the background.

Emily actually had tickets for next weekend which we did not realize until we got there. Luckily for us, they were able to switch them out for seats for that show and we still had a wonderful view of the stage. I have not seen this show in so long it was almost like seeing it for the first time.

Now I just need to get tickets for Wicked which is coming this summer. I REALLY want to see that one.

Girl Scout Cookies

2010-01-25T08:07:00.003-06:00

I have to say that my heart swelled with pride last weekend when I took Ashleigh out to sell Girl Scout cookies. I was amazed that she would go to the door, ring the bell and say the script. The reason this made such an impression on me is that a year ago she would have been too scared. She sure has grown up this past year!!

Goals/resolutions

2010-01-03T10:55:00.003-06:00

So yesterday I helped Emily color the stamped image for Grace's birthday invitations. It was fun using the Copic markers mom gave me for birthday and xmas. Unfortunately I don't have a sample to show you but once I get my invitation I will upload a picture.

So while at crop last night they had a sign about what are your scrapping goals. So I got to thinking that I only have a couple of projects I really want to get done this year.

Frame for Ashleigh - I am going to stamp all types of things on a photo mat to put in a frame for Ashleigh.
Scrap Disney trip - I am planning on doing this once I have the next one done
Get caught up on all my journaling

So I figure if I get those three done it will be a productive year. I will of course still do calendars for Mimi and Gramie.

So that is all I got for today. Later.

Happy New Year

2009-12-29T09:25:00.003-06:00

Well it is not new year just yet but I wanted to share a couple pictures from our WONDERFUL christmas we had this year. Ashleigh had a HUGE christmas receiving lots of toys and gadgets. I also had a HUGE christmas giving myself a Wii. I have been playing pinball non stop and am having hand cramps ;)

We have had such a blessed year and look forward to what 2010 will bring.

Loree

The new man in my life

2009-12-18T13:39:00.004-06:00

Every year, the ladies in my office participate in Secret Santa. This year I was shocked when I open my office door and find this....

a life size cardboard cut out of Edward Cullen from the Twilight movie. Every time I look at it I just crack up!!!

Tea Party

2009-12-18T13:34:00.005-06:00

I went to Christmas Tea with some good friends this past Saturday. We had a blast as usual and everything was excellent. I was looking at the pictures and thought I would look at last years again. I was amazed at how different I look and thought I would share.

ICE at the Gaylord Resort

2009-11-23T11:07:00.003-06:00

We went to see the ICE display at the Gaylord Resort on Saturday. Everything in the room was ice. They even had a slide made of ice. It was so cool to see the talent the ice shavers exhibited in making this wonderful display.

Parent Teacher Conference

2009-10-18T08:38:00.002-05:00

So we had Ashleigh's parent teacher conference this past week. I have not been posting lately due to work but I did want to share. Her teacher said Ashleigh was reading above her level. She jumped a level over the summer which is uncommon. I guess those trips to Borders to spend her savings on a book have really helped her stay interested in reading. We will continue to encourage her since I firmly believe reading is the pathway to success.

Her teacher also mentioned Ashleigh has a healthy self concept (I guess that is their buzz word), self confidence and self esteem. I could have told her that. I would rather that than a terribly shy introvert child like David and I were. She has plenty of friends which I think is good for her.

Her only issue is that Ashleigh does not get her work done timely. She gets distracted and frequently has to finish work up later. I know Ashleigh HATES to write so that slows her down.

All in all I think Ashleigh is doing great in second grade and will continue to thrive!

Autumn idea

2009-10-18T08:34:00.002-05:00

I saw this on the Spellbinders blog. I just love how they use these dies to create such wonderful designs. I liked this especially since it is Pumpkin Patch time of the year!

http://spellbinderspaperarts.com/blog/celebrating-fall/

I know this is a card but I like to use cards as inspritation for accents on my layouts. Check it out.

Tips from my video collection

2009-09-26T07:49:00.003-05:00

So I am watching the latest Creative Keepsakes video. I have heard a couple great tips. See below:

Use plain emery boards to sand and distress. They are easy to use and my favorite part CHEAP!
When gluing paper, use clothe pins as cramps to hold the paper down while it dries. I could have used that when making my disney mini albums on the edges!

Well, everyone is up now so I am going to sign off.

Scrapaddict

Awesome news!

2009-09-25T09:55:00.003-05:00

Yesterday we went and had Ashleigh's VCUG done. We got the great news that her reflux had corrected itself!!!! Basically she grew out of it. David and I are so relieved. It is horrible every year to see her wake up from the gas in pain and disoriented. Those tears break our hearts every time but at least this year we got to tell her she did not have to do it again.

Ashleigh told David this morning that the gas smelled like "skunk peed on bubblegum." I think that is probably a fairly good description of what the gas smells like.

So this means no surgery, no more VCUGs and no more antibiotics!!!!

Doodles doodles everywhere

2009-08-13T07:58:00.000-05:00

I found a book at Joann's a couple weeks ago and am now doodling like a fool. I am doodling anywhere and everywhere. I am getting better but certainly need more practice.

Fun at the circus

2009-08-01T11:33:00.010-05:00

Ashleigh and I went to the circus with our good friends last night. Ashleigh had so much FUN! She is ready to go back. I had a blast watching her watch the show. I also still can't get over them putting 7 motorcycles in that steel ball. Unbelievable to watch. It was definitely an experience.

Talented

2009-07-26T09:11:00.004-05:00

I follow this blog www.sarahiscrafty.com/craftysarah/ and believe she is truly talented. Check out these layouts.

Cool cool idea!

2009-07-05T10:47:00.000-05:00

Check out this link for a cool cool idea!!

http://hollysimoni.typepad.com/my_weblog/2009/06/teacher-monogram-gifts.html

Rocking Out!

2009-07-01T09:55:00.004-05:00

When I got home from work, Ashleigh told me she had her rock star outfit on. I of course had to take some pictures. She then started to ham it up for the camera. I just love my silly girl!

I did notice that Ashleigh now has freckles on her cheeks. I think they are so adorable. Of course, I could be partial since I have freckles all over! Ashleigh is just growing up so fast. She turns 7 tomorrow and I just can't believe it!

Bummed

2009-06-28T10:46:00.012-05:00

I am bummed that I have not been able to do much scrapping since I had surgery on my right hand. However, I have some pics for inspiration.

Cricut Expressions

2009-06-08T08:54:00.004-05:00

I got this machine at Christmas. It has the ability to cut 24 inches. Yesterday I finally got it out and started playing with it. I know, I know six months later but I have been busy with other projects. Anyway, I only had two cartridges - Indie and school - but they were enough to keep me cutting for a couple hours. I got out some old patterned paper from a kit I had bought and got to playing.

Don't you just love the skull. David said the following when I showed it to him, "Crop or die". I thought that was pretty funny. So I then cut letters out and put them with the skull on a 12x12 sheet of black paper. I am going to hang it in my scrap area. David mentioned that there is a store where you can make your own t-shirts and totes with an image. We just might have to do that!!

I think the butterfly is way cute too. It is about 8 inches so pretty tall. Once I got to playing I found the possibilities to be endless. Brackets, scallop borders and more to be cut. Now I must say that I still love my Quickutz. But when I want something really big or different, the machine will be the way to go.

Great quote

2009-06-07T09:15:00.002-05:00

I saw this quote on a blog I follow and wanted to put here. I totally will use this one day!

Mother is not a person to lean on, but the person who makes leaning unnecessary.

Dorothy Cornfield Fisher

Career Day

2009-06-02T08:09:00.001-05:00

So last week, Ashleigh's school let them dress up to show what they wanted to be when they grew up. The night before, Ashleigh said she wanted to be a princess when she grows up. Her daddy and I said that being a princess was not really a career. She promptly told us that yes, she would grow up and be a princess at Disney World. I just had to laugh.

Disney Books

2009-05-31T09:22:00.002-05:00

So I realized that I had not posted on here in a long time. At my last retreat in early May, I made two Disney chipboard books. Below are the pics. The princess themed book I have to Ashleigh. The mickey themed book I have to mom for mothers day. She loved it. They took a lot of work but I love how they came out!

Mickey Disney Book

2009-05-31T09:10:00.005-05:00

Princess Disney Book

2009-05-31T08:51:00.012-05:00

My brother is a riot

2009-05-10T08:36:00.002-05:00

So my mom has been up this week to help with Ashleigh during the school closing and David's motorcycle trip. She had a little mishap Monday and bumped her head. When telling my brother about it he said, "Leigh, don't break the come help me button". He is just a freaking riot!

Speed bumps hurt

2009-04-25T09:20:00.004-05:00

I really did it this time. I was walking at lunch Thursday and strained the crap out of my knee. I guess now I will accept that I am not supermom and there are some buildings I can not leap. However, after some really good pain meds and a dramatic crying fit I realize that even though I have hit a bump in my road it does not mean I have to give up. I have the strength to do anything I want and getting healthy is just going to take a different road. So, crutches certainly suck but they will not be needed forever!

Oh and a HUGE thanks to David for being such an attentive nurse. I love you baby!

Here we go again....

2009-04-22T08:41:00.002-05:00

Ambry, my trainer, came over last night. I had not worked out with her in 6 weeks due to work. We were looking at our log and realized that in August we will have been working out for two years. It amazes me that it has been that long. We have had several breaks due to my job, knee trouble, her school and holidays. The thing that I am proud of is that even with our breaks I get back to it. I get back on the bike, treadmill, etc. I am not giving up on my desire for a healthier me. I am not going to let anything stand between me and that end goal of being around for my family into old old age. I feel that I am making the life changes I need to stay healthy for years to come. So, here we go again until the next interruption =)

Nesting Dies

2009-04-21T08:22:00.003-05:00

So I have a bunch of these from Quickutz. I found this on scrap-mart's blog and had to share. Totally going to copy this. Love the circles and stars. So clever!

Seriously, why am I up

2009-04-19T05:59:00.003-05:00

Ashleigh came to bed this morning at 4:40am saying she had a nightmare. Well of course I could not go back to sleep. I mean who could with a husband, cats and kid in the bed. I was hanging off the side. So I am up doing laundry and surfing my favorite scrapbooking sites. I came across this on scrap-mart's blog. I really like this blog. They have such creative layouts and sketches.

MS Walk

2009-03-29T06:48:00.008-05:00

I DID IT!! The day started off with me dragging myself out of bed at 5:30am. Yep, you read that right 5:30am. Then I put on layers of clothes since it is 40 degrees outside with the wind chill making it feel like 30. Yep, 30 degrees. Then I drove down to Addison circle, found parking and made my way to our team tent. We then lined up, went through some opening ceremonies, and started to walk. Nancy and Ambry walked with me with the rest of the team a little ahead of us. It was an amazing experience. The walk reminded me how blessed my life is. I never thought I would do something like this. It was inspiring to see so many people gather to help fight a disease. I am glad I told Linda I would walk with her and I feel great after accomplishing one of my goals for 2009 and look forward to my next one!!

Our Team raised $5,910 thanks to the generosity of all our friends and family!!! Go EFO Girls Gone Wild!! Pics below

Linda and I

Debbie, Linda and I

David and I

Nancy and I

Me walking

Almost done!!

Let's Rock

2009-02-11T18:54:00.004-06:00

Monday night, Ashleigh and I were heading to Girl Scouts. We were listening to the Foo Fighters Pretender song. Now if you have not heard this song, it starts out a little slow and then picks up some serious speed. While the beginning of the song was playing, Ashleigh says "I love the part where it rocks out." I laughed at my little rock chick as she rocked out in the back of the van!!

Disney World

2009-01-28T10:27:00.004-06:00

So, I realized I have not discussed Disney World. We had a fantastic time and it is truely a magical place. It was amazing to be there with mom and Ashleigh seeing everything for the first time. Below is a list of my favorite things about Disney World.

Cinderella's castle at night. They would light it with different colors and it was beautiful
The fireworks - they were spectacular and breathtaking
The parade was so neat. All the characters were there!
Watching Ashleigh get autographs from all the characters. She was always so excited to meet them
Spending quality time with mom and Ashleigh. We definitely bonded
Being in the universe of Disney. I truly left Texas behind!

I would suggest the trip to anyone of any age. I think mom loved it just as much as Ashleigh and I. I will go back - probably several times. There is so much to do!

A moment I don't want to forget

2009-01-27T11:19:00.003-06:00

So Sunday night while getting Ashleigh in bed, she asks me "Why did the chicken cross the road?" I respond, why. She says with a huge smile on her face, "To say AAGGHH!" We are both laughing. She is laughing because she thinks her joke is funny. I am laughing because her joke is definitely not funny.

So last night as I am putting her to bed, she tells me some knock knock jokes. Of course, they are not funny but we are laughing anyway. I want to remember this moment - the silliness of the moment, our laughing, her joy in telling me a joke. These moments make being a mother the best thing in the world.

So cute!

2009-01-21T09:12:00.004-06:00

I saw this on one of the scrapbook blogs I subscribe to. I love the pink and black. This makes a great card for adults. Love it!

New year, new resolutions

2009-01-08T19:57:00.003-06:00

A new year, a new set of resolutions. Kinda interesting to me how they are pretty darn similar to last year. I did lose some weight in 2008. Not as much as I wanted but I am proud that it was the first year since 2001 I did not gain weight over the year. So for 2009, I am going to keep that goal in mind when setting this next one.

My goal for 2009 is to run/jog/walk the Turkey Trot through downtown Dallas on Thanksgiving Day. Ambry (my trainer) is going to participate with me and we are going to train for the walk. I hate hate hate running/jogging but I thought maybe if I pushed myself out of my box it would help. Ambry is enthusiastic and several friends have agreed to do it with me. I am grateful for my support system of friends and family who truly care and love me!

So to warm up for the BIG event, I have committed to walk the Multiple Sclerosis Walk in Addison on March 28th. Ambry and I start training on January 18th (after I get back from vacation). I am ready to get jogging. I have managed to convince several co-workers to do it with me. One of my co-workers has this horrible disease and I am awed by her attitude of not letting it win. The least I can do is raise a few dollars to help with research for a cure.

So the next time you try to call me or email me or IM me, I am probably jogging or walking asking myself what the heck was I thinking but cherishing my good luck to have a body that works. Take care!!

Loree Leigh

It has gotten quiet!

2008-12-28T19:40:00.002-06:00

Edward, Cassis and the boys left for Louisiana today. With them gone, it has gotten pretty quiet around here. I must say that the boys are very sweet and energetic. I really enjoyed spending time with them. It was great to have the whole family here at the house. Hope you had a good holiday with your family!

Happy Holidays

2008-12-26T08:13:00.003-06:00

Now that Christmas Day has come and gone, I am reminded of how lucky I am. I have a loving family, awesome job and great friends. I am grateful that my nephew and father-in-law are doing well with their respective health issues. I can't wait to go to Disney World with mom and Ashleigh. I am ready to train for running/jogging the Dallas Turkey Trot. I am excited about the coming year and look forward to completing my goals for the year. Happy Holidays!

More pics

2008-12-22T09:37:00.001-06:00

Here are some more pictures of Ashleigh and the cats on that very cold day!

I should have known!

2008-12-16T16:18:00.003-06:00

I washed Ashleigh's sleeping bag this past weekend. The cats, in a rare moment of togetherness, were caught sleeping on the bag. I can't be too angry with them considering it has been about 27 degrees all day. I just wish they could have slept on something that needed washing!

Christmas Card Shoot

2008-11-30T05:59:00.000-06:00

After bribing, pleading and begging I finally coerced Ashleigh into taking pictures for our Christmas card. Here are a few of the outtakes.

Lost No 6

2008-11-12T18:38:00.000-06:00

Well, no sooner than I post her snagletooth picture then she looses it in her sleep.

Girl Scouts Skating

2008-11-11T19:44:00.001-06:00

We went to the Girl Scout sponsored roller skating party Sunday night. Ashleigh did good and by the time we left she was just about ready to hit the big rink. We had fun watching the girls skate, fall, skate, fall..... I have to give them kudos for getting up again and again until they got the hang of it. I remember all the fun activities I did in Girl Scouts and am so thankful Ashleigh is able to have the same.

Snagletooth

2008-11-11T19:40:00.000-06:00

Ashleigh is steadily losing her baby teeth. We are holding at 5 since this front tooth does not seem to want to come out. We thought we would get a picture of her while her teeth are still growing and falling. She has lots of holes in there and I am amazed she can chew anything. My she sure is a cutie!

Coco sleeping

2008-11-11T19:36:00.000-06:00

Well, Coco now weighs 14 pounds and has filled out her frame. In other words, the cat is a chunk. Here she is sleeping on the kitchen chair seat with her head burrowed into the seat. If you ever are looking for her, a good place to start would be on a kitchen chair.

Dazed and confused

2008-10-29T19:25:00.000-05:00

Dazed and confused, that is what I was when David called to tell me Ashleigh got to ride in a limo today. Not only did she get to ride in a limo, she had lunch at Cici's pizza. Apparently during the throes of busy season I signed a permission slip for her to ride in the limo and have pizza. Unfortunately, I did not remember doing so until David let me know that was her prize for selling a lot of cookie dough. I then vaguely recall signing said slip and the astonishment of my action set in. I am the worst mom. Seriously. I can't remember something like that! All I can say is that I am terribly grateful to have my job at EFO where I am dazed and confused less weeks than if I was at KBA (what is my deal with acronym employers anyway?).

She had so much fun during her "limbo" ride and wants to travel that way from now on. Who wouldn't? I am glad she had such a wonderful time. She will treasure that memory for quite a while.

Ashleigh and Grace

2008-10-21T09:57:00.000-05:00

I had no intention of using this paper. When I pulled out my page planner, the paper in the sleeve did not scream to me. I had the rub ons picked out already and when I overlaid them on the paper knew I had a winner. Sometimes thing happen so easily. I used the same bling paper as on Ashleigh's hairdo page. Since these pictures were taken around the same time I figured they would make a good two pager.

So I just rubbed my circle rub ons directly onto the patterned paper. For the swirls, I cut them into individual words so I could manipulate them. I had no rhyme or reason but think they turned out pretty good. I still need a title. I bought this make your own rub on stuff a while ago and think I will try it out. Now I just need to find it!

The rub ons say things like best friends, best buds, etc etc.

Ashleigh's new hairdo

2008-10-21T09:49:00.000-05:00

Last July we chopped Ashleigh's hair off. I did this layout on Sunday. I really had no idea of what I wanted to do and it just evolved. I used a template to draw and cut out the arrows.

I like how the words on the arrow ended up adding to the title with the way it got laid out. I used bazzill bling paper in green and pink. Too cute.

I still need to do my journaling.

Playing outside layout

2008-10-21T08:58:00.000-05:00

This is the first of 50! It felt good to create a layout. I know I should be working on the brag book of Andrew for mom (I promise I am going to get to it soon!) but since I don't have enough pictures I figured I would work on other things.

When Ashleigh and I went to Ruston for Cassie and Edward's wedding in February, we took the kids outside to play with the motorized Jeep. I got some good shots of Ashleigh and Alex having a good time.

I used old old bazzill buttons and distressed them to match the paper. I have had the journaling stamps for a while and thought this would be a good page for them. I used my handwriting which is uncommon for me.

I like how it turned out. Definitely not too girly.

This past weekend

2008-10-21T08:46:00.000-05:00

Well, I managed to have a wonderful anniversary and birthday. I was able to get some scrapbooking done as well and spend a fantastic evening with my husband. Who could ask for more? Seriously, I am one of the luckiest 35 year old in the world. I have the best family and friends. I have a job I love. To top it all off, I only had to spend 15 minutes at the DMV getting my drivers license renewed!!

Blog of the Weaver clan

2008-10-18T22:44:00.000-05:00

Cassie started a blog of the family. Check out the site!!

http://stuckinouterspace.blogspot.com/

I challenge my fellow scrappers!

2008-10-18T08:03:00.000-05:00

I am going to give myself a challenge. I am going to scrap 50 pages before I buy another piece of paper, ribbon, embellishments.... Man o man, what a challenge. I think I can totally do it. I have so much paper it would be great to use it. Now that busy season is over, I have time to indulge myself in scrapping bliss. I will not only keep you posted, but I will share the fruits of my labor. I think I am going to go into my scrap area and get started!!!!!!!

Growing Up

2008-10-05T19:00:00.000-05:00

I was taking a good look at Ashleigh the other night. She looks so grown up to me. Her face has thinned so she looks more like a typical school kid. With her losing teeth and growing her hair out, it just makes her look older. Even pictures from six months ago shock me since she looks so different. Granted, I would not change a thing. She will always and forever be my baby girl! I take joy and pride in how much she has learned (reading and writing) but sometimes, for a brief instant, wish I had my little baby.

Easy to entertain

2008-10-05T18:51:00.000-05:00

So I am sitting on the couch, checking my email and smiling. Lately I have been pretty quick to laugh. It probably has a lot to do with me working hard to meet my 10/15 tax deadline. Today I am especially tired since I worked a solid 9 hours. So while I sit here typing away, my daughter is crawling under the lap quilts yelling for help and for the quilts to let her go. Who could not smile at such a scene. I find comfort in the fact that I am not the only person in this family who is easily entertained. My friends often tell me how she looks like David yet acts like me. I can live with that!

Aidan's Blog

2008-09-20T08:59:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, I have a nephew who was born deaf. A lot has been happening in his little world this summer. Below is a link to a blog Cassie has set up to keep family and friends up to date on his progress. The site will give you more information about his condition.

http://aidanriley.blogspot.com/

Later
Scrapaddict

Gustav

2008-09-06T23:06:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that both Mom and David's family did not have any damage from Gustav. Of course, we are keeping an eye on Ike. Luckily for me, I got to see Mom & John a couple of days while they were evacuated. Ashleigh was especially sad to see them and Gramie (Susie) go home. She wanted to skip school so she could play with them. When I mentioned she could spend a couple of weeks with them next summer, she was not so gung-ho.

Lost another tooth!

2008-09-06T23:06:00.001-05:00

Ashleigh lost a top front tooth on Wednesday. It had been extremely loose and hanging on my just a bit. Of course it fell out at school and she did not even notice. We wrote a note to the tooth fairy letting her know what happened. She was sweet enough to bring Ashleigh a dollar! She was excited. Now she has one permanent in, one halfway there and a hole. Good thing school portraits were the day after the picture! lol

Random

2008-08-28T19:17:00.000-05:00

I know it has been too long since I posted anything. I have been in a bit of a doldrums. I have found out recently that I have an under active thyroid (hypo) and it could be part of my energy level issues. I have been on medication for a month and it really seems to be helping. Work has gotten very busy but I still find it to be relaxed compared to public accounting. David and Ashleigh both started school this past week so we are getting out of our summer randomness into a schedule.

Speaking of school, I have been pondering over Ashleigh's Kindergarten first day pics. I want to do a layout with a school feel but softer since she was in this beautiful pink dress. I think I might cut out letters of various sizes and fonts in a soft red or blue. I think I will make a random border to give it the feel but not over the top. I might even just stamp the letters in white on a soft red cardstock. I probably should get started since I have this years first day of school to do now.

1st Grade

2008-08-25T08:41:00.001-05:00

My little girl is growing up fast. Here she is the first day of 1st grade. She likes her teacher and is enjoying school. I am glad she is liking it and anticipate this to be a good year for her.

I have been thinking....

2008-08-06T19:48:00.001-05:00

I have been thinking that I need to add more about me in the scrapbooks. For that matter, I need to add more about David as well. Little things Ashleigh's kids might like to know when they are older. Here is a list of tidbits about me.

Tidbits

I hate doing housework. Definitely.

I am addicted to Crystal Light.

I love cheese. Any kind anywhere

I hated my curly hair until I got out of high school. I always wanted straight long blond hair.

I have had more embarrassing incidents at work than any human should have to endure

I was a Girl Scout from 2nd grade through high school

My first car was a hand me down Honda Civic Hatchback - Red, which I backed into more objects than I can count on my hands

If couch lounging was an Olympic sport, I would win a Gold many times over

I love off the beaten path chick flicks. Heck, I love just about any chick flick.

I did not start to wear make-up until I was 18

I knew I wanted to study accounting as a junior in high school

I went through sorority rush on crutches having had knee surgery a month before

My vocabulary and spelling are atrocious because I missed several years of English during junior high to attend gifted student classes (SPARK). Thank heavens for spell check!

My mom would send me to spend two to three weeks with my grandmother in Belzoni, Mississippi during the summers when I was younger. Grandmother would take me to the cable office and I loved running the cash register.

I distinctly remember having dinner with my family (Mom, John & Edward)and laughing until my sides hurt. We sure did have fun picking on each other. Shoot, we still do it today!

Hope you learned somtething about me today!

Scrapbrat

Snuggle Buddies

2008-08-01T09:46:00.000-05:00

David took this picture of Ashleigh and Coco last night. Had to share. Too cute!

We are a Brownie!

2008-07-28T12:51:00.001-05:00

Sunday we finally got to bridge from a daisy girl scout to a brownie. I am so glad we got through the ceremony. Here are a few pics. The ones where she is prettying herself up are before. The one of her holding the doll is after.

Too cute

2008-07-27T11:02:00.001-05:00

Okay, I actually think it is adorable but then again I am prejudiced since I made it. I was feeling the itch to make something and needed a card for Ariane's baby shower gift. Since David and Ashleigh were sleeping I got to work. I looked online at the QK gallery and did not find anything that said gotta make it. I then looked through my shapes and saw the monkey and it hit me "Wham". What you see is the result using Bazzill Places We Go paper, Quickutz Calvin font, nesting circles and the exclusive monkey die. I love the way it turned out and Ariane can pull the monkey off and use it as a page element. Love it!!!

Doing Good

2008-07-25T15:51:00.001-05:00

An update for everyone, both Aidan and Bill are doing good after their surgeries. Aidan is back to his busy self after only 3 days. Bill is still in the hospital. However, the surgery went really well. Bill has his sense of humor so I feel confident he will come through with flying colors.

We are also doing better in our house. David and I are grateful for all the prayers and good thoughts. We are relieved the surgeries are done and everyone is okay.

Love ya
Scrap Addict

Heavy Heart

2008-07-20T10:06:00.001-05:00

These past few days have been pretty tough. We found out Friday that Bill (David's dad) will have surgery to remove his voice box. Saturday morning while Ashleigh and I were at the water park, Bill called to talk to Ashleigh. He wanted to tell her he loved her one last time before he lost his voice. When David told me this, I almost started to cry. Truth be told, I have been crying when I think about it too much.

We had told Ashleigh that Grandad was sick. Now we needed to explain why he was going to lose his voice. We talked about how smoking caused his cancer. I am not sure she completely got it but she did understand that Grandad will not be talking in the same way anymore. It broke my heart to listen to Grandad talk to Ashleigh on the phone.

I know the next months will be pretty tough. I find that today I am feeling pretty down. I am hopeful that once they remove his voice box and lymph nodes we can move to the next phase. I know radiation and chemo will be extremely difficult for Bill. I am hoping for the best since I am not ready to lose Bill just yet.

Color

2008-07-17T07:40:00.000-05:00

So I have been reading a Papercrafts magazine (from I don't know when) with the focus of color. They are showing all types of color combinations, etc. It got me to thinking, wouldn't it be cool to do a page of black squares which are embossed with various designs. The paper would be white core so I could sand the embossing and the white would show through. With as many embossing dies I have in Quickutz I would have many possibilities.

I also considered doing a monocramatic one in red or blue. I think it would be interesting to try.

The magazine has inspired me which I love. Now, to find the time to try it out and the pictures to use........

Funky Circles

2008-07-10T08:54:00.000-05:00

I tend to be a scrapper who likes perfect circles. However, I think I am going to try and scrap outside the line by trying this layout. I like it and really love the one circle covered in buttons.

Coco & Tabbie Update

2008-07-06T19:41:00.001-05:00

So Tabbie is still hissing and growling. However, it seems it is less frequent. Also, she does not seem to be biting as much. David and I can't figure out if Coco is following Tabbie around to play or be nice. Either way, it feels like deja vu from when we brought Tabbie home to Little Cat's displeasure. David and I are enjoying both cats and giving both lots of love.

New Old Layouts

2008-07-06T19:41:00.000-05:00

Above are two layouts which I had talked about adding a little something to. I like the way they turned out! Two down, lots to go!

A couple of pictures from my vacation

2008-07-05T20:09:00.002-05:00

Introducing Coco Chanel

2008-07-05T20:09:00.001-05:00

I would like to introduce you to Coco Chanel. I would like to start off by saying I did not name this kitty. She was found my a friend's mom in Baton Rouge and they christened her Coco. She is an abyssinian cat who is mostly black with a touch of brown fur and gold eyes. She is a sweet, playful, loving, energetic kitty (who we guess is about six months old). After being in our house for approximately 5 hours, she had already made herself at home as evidenced by her lounging in my bed. She has quickly won our hearts and we are thankful we were able to get her. Everyone except Tabbie!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abyssinian_%28cat%29

A link with more information about the breed.

Vacation

2008-07-05T20:09:00.000-05:00

Yeah, I am back from my vacation. I must say that it was one of the best. I drove down this past Saturday and spent the night with my mom. The next morning, we had Ashleigh's family birthday party. Ashleigh and I then went to mom's. We went to Lafayette on Monday to pick up our new family member, Coco. Tuesday was waterpark day. Wednesday was shopping in Lake Charles. I got to go to Woven Heart which is an awesome scrapbook store. Then Thursday was another burn adventure at the waterpark. Friday, Ashleigh, Coco and I came home. Whew! We did a lot of playing and plenty of resting. All in all, it was a lovely time in the Bayou State. I will have to say the first couple of days the humidity was almost unbearable, but either I got used to it or it got better. By the time we left, Ashleigh was ready to go home to her own bed. She kept asking me, "Are we in Lewisville yet?" during the drive home. It was nice seeing the Dallas skyline and being able to answer "almost baby."

Only my daughter

2008-06-18T08:18:00.000-05:00

Only my daughter would lose her panties at school. I am on the phone last night when Ashleigh says, "Mom I have something to tell you that's true". She then proceeds to tell me she lost her panties at school. I automatically check to make sure she has some on imagining she went all day without any. She did have panties on since she used her spare ones in her backpack. Yhew! She apparently lost them while changing for swimming. Only my daughter.

Layouts - I got your layouts

2008-06-08T17:29:00.016-05:00

So, I have been busy today. I have been working toward finishing all my journaling for unfinished pages so I can get pages done and in the book. Well, after working on it various Sundays for a month below is the result. Some of the pics are blurry and I am sorry. If you want to read journaling or see it better well you will just have to come to my house and check it out in the book. I was surprised how almost all of these are for 2006. A couple still need a little tweaking but for the most part are done. Enjoy!!!!

Family

2008-06-08T17:29:00.015-05:00

Edward, Mom and Me. I just love the photo so much.

Chick fil A

2008-06-08T17:29:00.014-05:00

One of the best nights ever. I goofed and put two of the same pic on here but I don't really care.

Summer Fun

2008-06-08T17:29:00.013-05:00

Breakfast with Cinderella

2008-06-08T17:29:00.012-05:00

I have some disney stickers somewhere that I bought for this. I am going to find them and see if they will add anything. Then again, I may just leave it as is

Tingler

2008-06-08T17:29:00.010-05:00

I am going to either hand cut a star or find a die cut to put on the left under the title. Needs a little something.

Ice Show

2008-06-08T17:29:00.009-05:00

Best buds

2008-06-08T17:29:00.008-05:00

Laundry

2008-06-08T17:29:00.007-05:00

Pumpkin Carving

2008-06-08T17:29:00.006-05:00

I think I might cut out some more halloween shapes and put them under the journaling and pic on the right.

Pumpkin Patch

2008-06-08T17:29:00.005-05:00

Easter Egg Hunt

2008-06-08T17:29:00.004-05:00

I was not crazy about this one until I put the title on it. Now I love it.

Quilt

2008-06-08T17:29:00.003-05:00

This needs a title or more flowers. The space above the journaling is bugging me.