3 Nuts and a Mom

2 Days!!

2008-08-16T13:49:00.007-05:00

Is all it took for me to fall off the bloggin' routine! I hope all had a great week! Mine was fabulous and I have so many fun things to look forward to and share with you all! After you've read this post, don't forget to scroll down and pick up the Calendar Topper freebie that Tanya made for everyone using my newest kit.

First off - a sale! A major sale! Everything in my SBB store is 50% off! No coupon code needed! Just go and shop - everything is marked down!

Next, I scrapped again! Not once, but 3 times even! Thanks to my incredible fortunate of being on the most awesome Creative Teams - I got 1 layout done and 2 brag book layouts done too! Heather Roselli has a new kit out called "Win or Lose." It is the perfect kit for scrapping all of those fun Game Nights and favorite games. Here's a layout I did using Missy Strand's template at SSD and Heather's kit.

I am finding it a little hard to look at this layout though - they both look so much bigger now and that was only a year ago! Check out Heather's kit - Win or Lose. It has a wonderful free with purchase deck of cards right now that you don't want to miss out on! Also, if you haven't checked out Heather's team blog. You definitely need to! Lots of goodies and prizes being given away.

Once again the amazing Traci Reed has come out with an incredible kit. I so want to grow up and be Traci! She's years younger than me yet she possesses such incredible talent and wisdom beyond her years. Her kit called "In the Air Tonight" is beautiful! It is totally perfect for so many pictures of Zoey and really all the kids. It is girly but not so much that I couldn't use it with Eli's layouts too. Here is a little brag book page I did using Darcy Baldwin's fabulous Brag Book Templates and Traci's newest goodie!

And another one using Traci's Sunshine Playground and Darcy's templates.

And speaking of Darcy Baldwin! I consider myself a very lucky girl to call Darcy a friend and to have had the opportunity to spend time with her and and wonderful boys in person! Sooo, when it came to creating chore charts for the kids - I immediately grabbed Darcy's chore charts and went to town. If you are looking for a chore/responsibilities chart to start the school year off right - Darcy has the best. Here are Zoey's and Aidan's charts - both using kits by Traci!

If you are still with me a big Thank You! This was a far longer post than I intended. It's just that there are so many great things being put out there right now by my digi friends I had to brag about them!

Please say Hello! and let me know you stopped by. I am off to take a shower and then I think we are going to go bowling again. A new family hobby! Have a great day! Play hard and make great memories! And thanks again for stopping by! I really appreciate you!

It happened again!!!

2008-08-11T09:04:00.003-05:00

Yep, I scrapped! And I designed! :) Holy cow - was there a full moon yesterday?

Does anyone have tips on organizing kids rooms and getting the kids to keep it that way? Inexpensive ones? I don't understand how I can spend hours cleaning the kids rooms, organizing them and then within a week you would have absolutely no idea I had ever been in there. We bought some closet storage "solutions" this weekend because we simply had to do something. Our downstairs hall closet was becoming known as the "Zoobomafoo" closet. For those of you who do not have young children or young children who love that show - Martin and Chris have a closet that when they open everything from balls to animal food falls out of knocking them down. It's funny in the show but not in real life!!! But back to the real topic - how do I inspire Aidan and Zoey to put their toys back where I have now put them???

Well I have to run - one of my clients has already emailed me a long list of things to do this morning. But before I do, I want to show you the layout I did yesterday using Traci Reed's fabulous new kit Blue Skies and Flutterbies.

Those photos are of Zoey after a soccer game last year. She's so pretty (if I say so myself) and even after running around in the Texas heat for an hour.

Oh my now we have progressed to screaming from upstairs and another email! I must go! I'll be back tomorrow with a look at Maria LaFrance's and my new kit coming out tomorrow called "Gabrielle" and a birthday wish for Eli!

Thanks soooo much for stopping by! I really appreciate it and love reading your comments! :)

2 Days in a Row!! New Record

2008-08-10T07:58:00.003-05:00

Anyone there? I know at least one person read my blog yesterday. Thanks Tammy! I owe you a pm and I'll do that today!

We had a fun family day yesterday! We bowled, had lunch, did a little shopping, had ice cream and watched a movie at home. I have a cute photo of Eli bowling with his paci in his mouth that I'll have to share tomorrow.

I scrapped! I scrapped! I worked on a layout using Heather Roselli's fabulous party kit yesterday. She designed the kit to celebrate her 1 year Anniversary at Sweet Shoppe. It is a fabulous kit and was perfect for Eli's 2nd Birthday photos.

It is hard to believe that we will be celebrating his 3rd Birthday on Tuesday already. He's grown so much in the last year. Of course he has!!

Anyways, we are organizing closets today and cleaning house. Hopefully we will also go swimming as it is supposed to be 102 here today. Yikes!

Have a great day! Thanks for stopping by. Leave a comment and say Hello!

It's been forever!

2008-08-09T09:54:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone! Remember me???

First things first! Thank you to my wonderful Creative Team who has managed to continue to post here on my blog despite my complete disappearance from the digital scrapping world. Without them I think everyone would have totally forgotten about my designs and me! Thank you girls!

I have been busy busy busy trying to start a Virtual Assistant business. So far it has been going fairly well but I am so busy that I don't have time to do very much scrapping or designing. I am excited though that things are starting to settle down and I am getting some time to do both. In fact, before my family and I run off for a fun family day, I wanted to stop and share at least one new thing I have up at Polka Dot Potato.

This fun little mini kit is called "Boys Room Mini" and is only .99 cents! Not only is it a steal but it is super cute! You can pick it up here.

Well I told the kids I was going to kidnap them today and have a fun family day. So we'll see what kind of fun we can find on this ridiculously hot August day in South Texas. I suspect we are either going to go bowling, mini golfing, swimming and/or all of the above. I want to make use of the weekend to be with them now that I am a WAHM.

Have a great day everyone! Thanks for stopping by!

:)

A New Page with Summer Serenade

2008-07-19T20:30:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone. I just wanted to show you a page I did using a couple of Amy's wonderful designs.
First off I used her gorgeous Summer Serenade kit.

I love these wonderful colors & the elements are fabtastic!!! it even comes with a beautiful alpha!
I also used her Starting Blocks Set 4.

Terrific template set. I have so far used 3 of them & can't wait to use the last one. There are simply terrific.
Here is the page I made using these fabulous items. Click the pic for full credits!!!
Thanks for looking. I hope you all enjoy the rest of your summer!!!

July Desktop Calendar

2008-07-08T15:37:00.002-05:00

Hello out there in blog land! Pam here with a very late July desktop calendar! I'm so sorry it's late but it seems that the first and part of the 2nd week of July has gotten away from me!

I used Amy's new mini kit Summer Spunk for this month's Calendar. I hope even tho it's late you can get some use out of it!

Here is the download link:
http://www.4shared.com/account/file/53094787/f9726a84/ableser-summerspunk-julydesktop.html

And a little preview of the calendar:

Enjoy and have a great week!

New Products from Amy

2008-06-24T13:14:00.008-05:00

Hi everyone! This is Lydia, here to show you a few of Amy's new products. I meant to do this post yesterday, but I was up in the mountains with DH's family, and we didn't have an Internet connection. So, sorry I'm late.

Without further ado, I would like to show you two of Amy's newest kits, Summer Serenade and Playdate (which is 30% off right now!). These kits are both so fun and versatile! Hop over and check them out (all images are clickable)! And, here are two layout that I did using these kits. These pages went together really quickly because the kits were just so easy to use.

Thanks for looking! Go out and scrap some memories today!

2008-06-20T20:41:00.003-05:00

Look at the cool new Mini kit that Amy has released. Cute colors & those elements are so pretty. Another super cute girlie page. Pic is linked so check it out!!!

Heres a page I made with it. I'm not particularly fond of fish, but my ds said I couldn't catch one so I had to show I could. After he put the worm on the hook of course!!! Click the pic for full credits!

2008-06-12T21:00:00.003-05:00

Hello again everyone. I just wanted to share with you all this amazing new mini kit Amy just put out. It's called Zoey's Wardrobe & it is so fun & beautiful.

Here is a page I just made with it. All the colors go together so nicely & everything flows. I used just about everything in this kit. I did leave a few things out though. Click the lo for full credits!
The kit pic is linked so go check it out. You will love it!!!

Just look what these kits can do!!!!

2008-06-12T08:07:00.004-05:00

Hello everyone. I'm new to Amy's CT & it is a wonderful place to be. Amy is an amazing designer. I love working with all her kits. So I thought I would share with you some of the lo's her CT members have made using these fabulous kits.
I'll start with one I made using Spunky Girl
Heres a fabulous page made by Pam using Purple Paradise

How about this touching page made by ltarbox using Little Boy Blue

KMBaker has this gorgeous page using Hope Springs Eternal

Heres one made using Rainy Day Sunday made by Jamie
I just want to say that it is an honor working with these talented ladies & with such an amazing designer. Amy's designs are fun, funky & gorgeous!!!
I hope you all have a terrific June!!:)

June Desktop Calendar Freebie!

2008-05-31T19:09:00.005-05:00

Can you believe it's the end of May already? I can't imagine where this month went but it's gone and to get you into June with a good start I've made a desktop calendar using Amy's Playdate kit.

Here is the download link hope you all enjoy it and the month of June!

Download link

Brag Book Templates

2008-05-27T12:56:00.003-05:00

Hi, Crystal here stepping in for Lydia with this week's product spotlight. I will try and keep it short today. I often find myself scrapping more moments than events, so for me one photo templates and smaller size templates are very useful. Something I started a while back was making 4x6 layouts for Lukas (my son) to put into a little album to look at. He will sit for hours and look through it, but there are still many spaces to be filled that I haven't gotten around to scrapping. Which brings me to my pick for product spotlight, Amy's new Brag Book Templates. These will be perfect to help me create layouts for his book, but they will also work great to make quick and easy presents for family members.
For this week only you can pick them up for 30% making them a bargain at only $4.20 for 10 Brag Book Templates as well as a front and back cover, giving you a total of 12 templates!!
Currently they are available at either Digital Freebies or A Cherry On Top.

Let's talk speed scrapping

2008-05-22T11:49:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone, I was sat here wondering what I could possibly talk to you about, and I got to thinking about a few things. I have spent all of my time since Sunday trying to move everything important onto my external drive, because my computer started making a weird noise and I didn't want to lose anything important. Now during that time I have cursed the amount of time doing this has taken. In my mind there were so many other things I could have been spending my time doing. I haven't been able to scrap a single layout, and I have missed that creative outlet. Now they way my mind works is it wonders, frequently lol. So that thought led to thinking about all the othet times I have wished for more "Scrapping" hours in the day. I know I can't be the only one who is still printing/assembling things the night before they are needed lol. But the problem is birthdays and anniversaries etc may well give us a year's notice they are coming but then somehow they still seem to be able to sneak up on us and throw us into a panic. Although I am still searching for that elusive 48 hour day, to give me those extra hours I have stumbled across a few ways to make better use of my scrapping time, and get more done in less time. My first answer to this problem is quick pages, they give you a nice base layout that can be finished simply by adding a photograph. But if you own the coordinating kit you could also add to them and really make them your own. Luckily for you Amy has lots of beautiful ones available for sale. Let's start with some traditional 12x12 quickpages. Amy currently has quick pages available in this size using no less than 9 different kits. I have linked up the abbreviations of the stores each set is available for sale at PDP=Polka Dot Potato, ACOT=A Cherry On Top, DF=Digital Freebies.

B3 Bounce Bounce Bounce (designed by CT member Pam Bumbuca) PDP and DF Flowers For Mom PDP, DF and ACOTFor The Love Of Clover (designed by CT member Pam Bumbuca) DF Little Boy Blue PDP and DFLittle Man (created by CT member Pam Bumbuca) DF Oh What A Mess (Created by CT member Pam Bumbuca) PDP, DF and ACOT Purple Paradise PDP, DF and ACOTRainy Day Sunday PDP, DF and ACOTSpring Morning 1 - Single (created by CT member Pam Bumbuca) DF Spring Morning 2 - Triple Pack (created by CT member Pam Bumbuca) DF As you can see you are not exactly short of choice, there is something for boy and girl pages. But what if you don't want to make square layouts? Well Amy can help you out there too, with her selection of quick page albums. These will make creating a beautiful hybrid gift super simple.

Flowers For Mom - Bracket Album (created by CT member Pam Bumbuca) PDP, DF, ACOT Flowers For Mom - Mini Heart Album (designed by CT member Tanya Tong) PDP, DF and ACOT Grammie's Apron - Bracket Album (created by CT member Pam Bumbuca) DF and ACOT Rainy Day Sunday - Brag Book (created by CT member Tanya Tong) DF and ACOTThere's also this fab album that accompanies Amy's newest release, a collaboration with Heather Roselli, Hope Springs Eternal. Here's something you may not have known if you pick up the kit before the 23rd (which is Friday) you get the gorgeous 2 Ring Heart Album which is worth $4.99 free. You don't have to do anything, it's included in the download, now how's that for a deal!

I know a lot of people aren't keen on quick pages and consider them to be "cheating" but they really do help out when you have a short deadline, or just a lot of photos you want to get scrapped in a short amount of time. The alternative answer I can provide is layered templates, they give you a lot more freedom and flexibility. I will hold my hands up and admit I can't remember the last layout I made that didn't use a layered template. I like to have the basics of my layout done for me, leaving me to the fun task of decorating it with the kit of my choice. The downside is they take a lot longer than quick pages, but for most people a template layout is still a lot quicker than starting from scratch. Amy has a lot of great templates available for sale, from 12x12, double page and brag book to tumbler, calendar, trading card and even blog header templates. Whether you choose to use templates or quick pages you have plenty to choose from, for all your, hybrid scrapping, gift giving or just for simply speeding up the scrapping process.

Wednesday Challenge Time!

2008-05-21T15:12:00.002-05:00

Howdy Folks! Char here, and it's Wednesday Challenge time again. Forgive me for missing the last couple of weeks. I think my weeks just didn't include Wednesdays - time goes by so fast!

So, here's your challenge for today - it's a THEME challenge. Create a layout using the theme PLAY. It could be a layout with you playing with your kids, or your husband playing with a big-boy toy like a truck or tractor. As long as it fits the theme PLAY, it counts!

In the comments, post a link to your layout, and we'll pick a random winner on Saturday evening. Winner will receive a $5 gift certificate for more Amy Bleser products!!

So, play... play... and play some more. And then create a layout for the challenge!

Happy Wednesday!

Hope Springs Eternal

2008-05-19T13:03:00.009-05:00

Hi there! Lydia here with another product spotlight. Today, I'm gonna keep it pretty short and sweet, but I don't want anyone to miss out on Amy's new kit! This kit is a collaboration with Heather Roselli. I love the colors in this kit, and it is PACKED with beautiful papers and elements. Hope Springs Eternal is for sale right now at Sweet Shoppe Designs and will be for sale tomorrow, May 20, at Digital Freebies. And, as a special treat, if you buy it this week, you will also get this cute, cute 2-Ring Heart Album for free!! It doesn't get any better than that! So, run on over and pick up Hope Springs Eternal!

Aaaack! I missed a week!

2008-05-13T10:31:00.005-05:00

Whoever stole the last week of my life - please return it!! :) Hehe! It didn't seem like a week ago that I blogged but well a few dozen boxes more and a couple of new kits/designs and here it is - a week later!

I hope everyone had a great Mother's Day! Mother's Day here was pretty much overshadowed by Aidan's 7th birthday and the move of course. But that's okay - my husband was very sweet and the kids colored the wrapping paper on their presents for me and it was very festive and fun. David got 3 kits to make stepping stones for the garden in the new house - 1 for each kid of course. It is perfect, it will be wonderful to make them with the kids and put them in the garden and see them everyday.

Aidan's 7th birthday was on Saturday but we celebrated on Friday night and on Sunday. He received lots of HO train things including a new engine, a new passenger station, box car and more track. He was in heaven! And then on Sunday we took him to the local Train Museum and he got to drive his track on their layout. He was so excited and did so well. Major kuddos to the young boys at the Train Museum who were very nice to Aidan and taught him the ropes so to speak. We all had a very nice day. We went to Bill Miller's for dinner at Aidan's request and had a fairly good and inexpensive dinner. Here's a couple of pictures:

Time for me to go and do some packing and make lunch, but before I go I want to share with you some new designs I have in the stores (links are in the sidebar)! Also, I am going to start something new here on my blog. Each week when I announce new products, I am going to give one away to one blog commenter. So that means, leave a comment on my blog saying "Hi" and which of the new releases you would love to have and on Wednesday I will pick a name out of the hat and whoever it is will get the new release of their choice. If I get lots of comments, I might even do more than 1 giveaway. Here are the previews:

First up is a cute heart shaped album designed by my awesome CT member Tanya Tong using my Flowers for Mom kit.

Next is my kit called "Grammie's Apron." Very flowery with a classic look - perfect for heritage photos and all those Mother's Day photos from this last weekend.

And speaking of fantastic CT members, Pam Bumbaca made this fabulous bracket album using Grammie's Apron. I love it and when the move is all settled and I can find my photo paper - it is going to be the first thing I make up.

Tanya's been busy this week - hehe - she also did this really wonderful brag book using Rainy Day Sunday. It is perfect for mini albums for Father's Day or just any mini album featuring the men and boys in your life!

So on that note, I am off to make lunch for my littlest nut and get some food myself! I'm starving!! Thanks for stopping by! I hope you have a great day and I look forward to reading your comments.

What's Your Personality!

2008-05-07T22:25:00.002-05:00

Oh boy, here we go again, another personality profile providing you with more information than you ever needed to know about me! Or cared to!! LOL. This comes from the "Our Blog to Yours" at Sweet Shoppe Designs.

You Are An ENTP

The Visionary

You are charming, outgoing, friendly. You make a good first impression.

You possess good negotiating skills and can convince anyone of anything.

Happy to be the center of attention, you love to tell stories and show off.

You're very clever, but not disciplined enough to do well in structured environments.

In love, you see everything as a grand adventure. You enjoy taking risks for love.

And if things don't work out, you're usually not too much worse for the wear!

You would make a great entrepreneur, marketing executive, or actor.

At work, you need a lot of freedom to pursue your own path and vision.

How you see yourself: Analytical, creative, and peaceful

When other people don't get you, they see you as: Detached, wishy-washy, and superficial

What's Your Personality Type?

Okay so give it to me straight - take the test and link me up so I can see who my friends are.

Help!! I'm Missing Someone!

2008-05-06T21:41:00.004-05:00

Yes it has finally happened! My house is overrun with boxes. They are stacked 3 or 4 high on every available wall. The children are hiding in them and every once in a while a scream of "....where are you???" can be heard throughout the house as I try to locate my little nuts between, behind and beneath all these boxes! We begin moving in just 10 days!

Sadly I did no digiscrappin today but I do still have a layout to share with you! This one is using Kristin Cronin-Barron's My Sunshine kit available at Sweet Shoppe Designs. It is such a fun and happy kit - I just love it. Oh and I also used one of Bree Clarkson's fabulous templates too.

Hopefully I will squeeze in a few minutes tonight before I fall asleep - I would really love to do the May template from Dani's CT blog - Girl Talk. But I am yawning probably a little too much for that. I do feel good about what I did get done today - I booked a mover, transferred all of our utilities, played in a tent, read a lot of stories, did some patient records for the doctor I am a "virtual assistant" for and all around had a well balanced day between working and the kids. It was another good day!

And among all this fun time really does fly! I went upstairs to encourage Aidan to get out of the tub and was shocked to see a big boy looking up at me rather than the little baby I once knew. He has matured so much and grown into such a wonderful boy - yes filled with energy and mischief but also a very healthy dose of kindness and gentleness. He'll be 7 on Saturday and while it is such a cliche, it doesn't feel like 7 years ago when I held him in my arms for the first time and whispered in his ear "you are the best thing I have ever done." I shudder to think how quickly the next year and years will go but between all the practices, birthday parties, squables and tears, I will forever be grateful for the gift of my 3 children.

Wow - that was a serious dip into the sappy and reflective side of me. I suppose it is moving that is bringing out my sappy side. I have spent nearly all of my married life in this house and brought three precious babies home from the hospital to this home. I have never in my life been as happy or as terrified as I have been in this house. But now it is time to make new memories in a new and wonderful home. And the nice thing about moving less than a mile away - when I need to I can drive by and see how things are going over here in this little corner of my heart.

On that note - I am definitely going to stop before I become even more sappy. Thanks for sticking with me and reading all this (if you got this far!). I am keeping my fingers crossed that I will have a layout to show you tomorrow!

Have a wonderful day/evening! And please leave me a comment to say Hello and tell me what's going on with you too!

Life....well it's crazy!!!

2008-05-05T23:37:00.004-05:00

I know for darn sure I am not the only one who is amazed at how busy life is! Between soccer, gymnastics, birthdays, work, designing, scrapping, the kids school, holidays and family celebrations, moving and well moving - it is hard to keep my head on straight! And seriously, could someone please tell me how on earth it became May already??? Next thing you know we are going to be Christmas shopping!

But even with its everyday challenges and craziness, life is good! Afterall, how could it not be when your beautiful 5 year old daughter comes running into the house saying "Mommy, Mommy, Mommy....a toad pee'd on me!!" She was delighted, I was laughing and smiling - it was one of those great everyday moments.

Did everyone survive National Scrapbooking Day? Last year I went totally crazy on NDS and spent a fair amount of money. This year, I was good! I restrained myself to just a couple purchases. Now mind you, if DH was not unemployed I am sure I would have gone crazy. There were amazing sales out there, incredible designs and a lot of inspiration and fun. I didn't purchase a lot - but I did do a fair amount of scrapping - at least for me! Indulge me please while I share!

My first layout is of my sweet Eli in the bathtub. I just love that sweet beautiful face! The kit is A Boys Toys by Heather Roselli at the Sweet Shoppe and the acrylic stars are by Traci Reed. I used one of the star album Quick Pages for the layout. Yes it might constitute cheating but it turned out really cute I think!

I will spare you the whining that goes along with this next layout of Aidan who will be 7 on Saturday (hint hint - look for a sale on Saturday). He is no longer my little baby - he has grown into a boy - a big, rambuntious, active and fun 7 year old boy!! For this layout I used a template by Bree Clarkson and a new kit called Chilaxin by Melissa Bennett, Eva Kipler and Scrapkitchen Designs.

This next layout is one of my favorites for the weekend. Zoey is just so darn pretty (in my humble opinion) and her eyes are just so amazingly blue! I did this layout for the NDS Spin-A-Lift Chain game. Tons of fun! The butterfly is by Annie Manning in this layout - everything else is from Traci Reed's newest kits - JuicyPops with Amanda Rockwell and A Tisket A Tasket with Gina Miller.

Okay well that is going to have to be all for now! Soon I am going to be asleep on my keyboard! Thanks so much for stopping by! I hope you have a wonderful day!

Layout Spotlights

2008-05-05T14:16:00.007-05:00

Hi everyone! I hope you all had a fun NSD! I know I did!

Today I was looking through the Friday Freebie Challenge gallery over at Digital Freebies. The Friday Freebie a few weeks ago was an add-on that Amy created to coordinate with her Rainy Day Sundays Kit. I was amazed at how many different looks people could achieve with the same mini-kit. I saw some really great layouts and chose just a few to highlight here.

Old As Dirt by NeldaBelle

Nitya in the Park by swatidesoares

So Many Books So Little Time by nof007750

Joy to Me by Linda Rich

These are all wonderful layouts! Thanks for sharing them with all of us!

NDS Sale!

2008-05-03T08:21:00.001-05:00

Hello Readers! Happy NSD!!!

Amy is having some great sales in all of her stores today!

50% off at Digital Freebies
40% off at A Cherry On Top, Polka Dot Potato, and Scrapbook-Bytes.

Links to all of her stores can be found in the sidebar. Go and stock up on your favorite stuff while it's on sale!

Happy Scrapping!

Tuesday Freebie!

2008-04-29T12:18:00.002-05:00

Hey there blog readers! I've got a little freebie for all of our faithful readers! It's a May Desktop Calendar using Amy's brand new Rainy Day Sunday's kit.

Click here to get your link. Enjoy!

Bloggy Giveaway Winners!

2008-04-28T00:54:00.002-05:00

Howdy folks - it's Char again. I'm here to post the TWO winners of the Bloggy Giveaway... and yes, I'm a little late. You wouldn't believe how many things we had going on this weekend, so I won't even begin to tell you! (Plus, you really want to know the winners anyway, right?)

So, the two winners are....

Theresa Marie - http://theresamariegoon.blogspot.com/

and

Michelle - http://michelles-scraps.blogspot.com/

Congratulations to you both!! I'll be sending you email in just a few minutes, and if you don't receive it, please let me know!

Thanks to everyone who visited Amy's blog for the giveaway! We hope you'll come back for more fun from Amy and her CT!

Current Challenges and Promotions.

2008-04-24T16:39:00.007-05:00

I've never been a guest blogger before, but there's got to be a first time for everything right lol. I suppose I should tell you who I am, that might be a good start lol. My name is Crystal also known as Lukasmummy, I have been a fan of Amy's designs for a while and now I'm lucky enough to be guesting on her CT. I thought I would take this chance to shine the spotlight on some of the challenges and promotions Amy currently has running. To me the best thing about Digital scrapbooking is the huge amount of inspiration available but after that my favourite thing is adding even more digital stash to my collection, so I am always on the look out for promotions and sales.

I'm going to start with her new template challenge over at Scrapbook Bytes, all you have to do is download the free template she has provided and scrap a layout with it then just upload it to Template Challenge Gallery. You could always try flipping the template horizontally or rotating it to make it even more versatile. How simple is that, you can pick up the template free for the duration of the challenge (runs until 30st April) you can find all the details here.

This weekend is Potato Bar weekend at Polka Dot Potato, designers release new items each costing 99c. Most of them are designed especially for this event although some may be for sale at a later date, but if they are you can bet they will be costing a lot more than 99c!
Amy is spoling us for choice with 2 new alphas, 4 new layered templates and 3 gorgeous mini kits. She is also providing a free gift of a beautiful paper pack when you spend $10 in store. You can check out all her Potato Bar items and her other stuff in her section of the store here.

She also released two new items at Digital Freebies on Tuesday, they are still available at 30% off until Tuesday. Dress 'Em Up Decorative Frames and Floral Overlays - Commercial Use.

Last but certainly not least as you may have seen in previous posts Amy is running a super special deal on her templates at Scrapbook-Bytes, right now you can pick up all of them for the bargain price of $35! You can see all the details of that steal of a deal right here.

Thanks for stopping by! If you want to keep up with Amy's designs and store, join her mailing list. I happen to know that she will be sending out a beautiful freebie to her mailing list members this weekend! All you have to do is enter your email address below.

Subscribe to Designs for Play by Amy Bleser

Email:

Visit this group

Bloggy Giveaway!!

2008-04-23T15:01:00.002-05:00

Hi folks, it's Char again, here for my Wednesday post on Amy's blog.

This week will NOT be a challenge or a scraplift... but rather we're going to do a GIVEAWAY!!

Amy has generously offered not one, but TWO gift certificates for $10 to her store at Scrapbook Bytes. Yes, that's right, you heard me - I'm giving away TWO gift certificates!

So, why don't I show you a couple of items of Amy's that I particularly love - just to wet your appetite.

Check out these 4x6 size brag book templates:

And see what I did with a couple of the templates?

(Yes, I know - I just HAD to get pictures of my daughter in this post - bad Char!) :-)

Also, I know it's been mentioned already, but just a reminder - Amy has put together a MEGA pack of all her templates - that's 100 templates, and you can get them for only 35.00. EVERY one of Amy's templates that are currently available at SBB are in this Template Bonanza pack. It's only on sale through this next weekend, so you might want to hurry over to get it.

Ok, so back to the giveaway - simply leave a comment here on this post, and we'll select a random winner.... no, wait, we'll select TWO random winners on Saturday. I'll email the gift certificate codes to the winners on Saturday afternoon/evening, and post the winners here as well.

Thanks for visiting, and have fun with the Bloggy Giveaway carnival!

Template Bonanza!

2008-04-21T20:38:00.005-05:00

Hi everyone! This is Lydia with another product spotlight. I think we all know that Amy makes some of the best templates around. And, right now, she is have a HUGE sale on her templates at SBB. You can buy ALL of Amy's amazing templates in the SBB store for the low price of $35 dollars. You will get templates for a Brag Book album, ATC album, Calendar Tops, Tumblers, Blog Headers, and loads of 12X12 layout templates. This is an unbeatable deal, but it will only last for this week, so hurry over to SBB and grab them quick!

Here are layouts done by Amy's CT using some of these fabulous templates (click on the images to see the full credits of each layout):

1st Hugs by Crystal using On A Strip Template

Bloom by Jamie using One Shots Template

Jayne by Lydia using On An Angle Template

The Best Bday Ever by Pam using Starting Blocks 4 Template

Walkin Gus by Kris using Rock the Template - September Pack Template

Time for a Challenge!

2008-04-16T10:54:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone - Char here! Each Wednesday, I'm going to be your blog host here at 3 Nuts and a Mom. We'll be enjoying scraplifts and challenges, and PRIZES each week.

I have been thinking a lot about those "every day" moments lately. My goal this week was to spend more time journaling and doing scrapbook layouts about the "every day" moments in life. Of course, no sooner than I made that goal, we had a BIG out of the ordinary set of moments on Monday. My son ended up in the ER with severe breathing problems, and I'm still recuperating from it! (Notice I said *I* am recuperting... he is doing great too). Actually, he might be considered "reCROUPerating", since he was diagnosed with croup.

(Ok, I'll wait for the groans to stop).

Anyway, even with all the craziness in our home this week, I am still thinking about journaling and scrapping the moments I don't want to forget. Today I am going to work on a layout about our trip to the ER, with as much journaling and detail as I can get on a page, along with a couple of cute pictures.

My challenge to YOU is this - scrap a layout about a moment you've had this week that needs to be remembered. It can be a BIG moment, or an "every day" moment - just try to make it a journaling/story kind of moment.

Post a link to your layout here in the comments at Amy's blog (say, by Friday evening around 5 p.m. pacific time), and I'll pick a random winner to receive one of Amy's new products. (Winner will get to pick their prize from Amy's shops!)

Thanks for playing, and Happy Wednesday!

New Product Alert!

2008-04-15T15:19:00.002-05:00

Hello to all Amy's Blog Readers! Pam here with a new product alert! Amy has released two amazing kits today. They are available at Digital Freebies, A Cherry on Top or Polka Dot Potato and are on sale so be sure to head on over to any of those stores (links in the sidebar) and scoop them up!

First up is this purple beauty called Purple Passion:

and here are a couple of pages by the CT:

By Crystal (lukasmommy)

by Lydia (ltarbox)and one from me

and the second scrumptious kit is Spunky Girl

and a great page by Tanya (TiggerRD)So run on over and grab them up for yourself and be sure to come back and leave us a link to what you create with them so we can leave you some loving and you never know, maybe a spotlight!

Have a great day!

2008-04-14T09:15:00.006-05:00

Hi Everyone! This is Lydia, a member of Amy's CT - here to show you Amy's newest kit, Flowers for Mom. This kit is perfect for Mother's Day gifts and layouts! I just love the colors of this kit, and the patterns and textures are simply gorgeous. You can get it at Polka Dot Potato and Digital Freebies. And, right now, it's on sale!

Take a look at what Amy's CT did with this beautiful kit!

Ruby by Crystal

Funny by Jamie

Mommy's Shutterbug by Kris

Mom and I by Pam

Valentines Day by Tanya

George and Betty's Wedding Day by Lydia

What Kind of Shoe are you??

2008-03-25T21:42:00.002-05:00

Howdy!!! I was bored and lacking any energy to scrap, so I was surfing. I started out at Sweet Shoppe Design's blog and their little quiz they have about what kind of Easter egg you are. Well I stumbled upon a quiz about what kind of shoe you are. Not sure why it struck me as something that would be fun but I decided to take it. And here is what I got!

You Are Bare Feet

You are a true free spirit, and you can't be tied down.

Even wearing shoes can be a little too constraining for you at times!

You are very comfortable in your own skin.

You are one of the most real people around. You don't have anything to hide.

Open and accepting, you are willing to discuss or entertain almost any topic.

You are a very tolerant person. You are accepting and not judgmental.

You should live: Somewhere warm

You should work: At your own business, where you can set the rules

What Kind of Shoe Are You?

The funny thing is - it is right! I am bare foot 90% of the time and I think the personality stuff is pretty right on. Curious, hun?? So, what kind of shoe are you?

Messy New Kit!

2008-03-11T09:26:00.004-05:00

Wow! 2 blog posts in a row - what do you know! Hehe! Today is going to be a busy day around here - it is DH's birthday and I am not at all prepared. Plus Aidan has gymnastics this afternoon so everything has to be taken care of before nap time essentially this morning!

Before I run off, I thought I would jump on here and show ya'll my new kit titled "What A Mess." It is available today at Polka Dot Potato and Digital Freebies. It is on sale for just $3.91 till March 17th! It is such a fun kit -I am looking forward to scrapping with it myself this evening!

Did you know that I have a mailing list? It is small but growing! The list is set up to advertise new products, share news and freebies. You can sign up here. This weekend I will be sending out a cute Spring freebie for newsletter members only. I'll share a preview of the freebie tomorrow!

Off to birthday and grocery shop! Have a great day everyone - thanks so much for stopping by!

I have an excuse!!!

2008-03-10T12:08:00.004-05:00

Oh woe is my blog! Poor neglected blog! Fortunately the Sweet Shoppe Blog and the fun personality quiz have given me the perfect excuse - I'm shy!! :) Well that is definitely debatable but whatever excuse I can take for being such a lousy blogger - I'll take! :) Here is the result of this cute quiz over at SSD's blog.
Of course my biggest excuse of all is the 3 little nuts for whom I spend my day waiting on and playing with! :) Speaking of which, here are 2 layouts to share that I did last night featuring two of them! The first is of Eli at the Botanical Gardens last weekend. I love the halo of hair! The kit is Heather Roselli's fun "Lucky Stars" and "Lucky Stars Add-On" available at Sweet Shoppe designs.

Next is a layout I did of Aidan playing with the fountain at the Botanical Gardens. He has always been fascinated with it! The kit is Melissa Bennett and Amanda Rockwell's "Got Boys?" available at ScrapArtist!

Thanks for stopping by! Hope you have a great day! And stay dry if you live in the South Texas area!

Challenge Time!!

2008-02-01T16:36:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone!! This is Amber hijacking Amy's blog for a little bit. Amy was super sweet and passed out some of her templates packs for her CT to give away. So here I am to give some away!!

As those that are close to me know, I started Medifast 1 1/2 weeks ago. So far so good, but this time I am determined to get the weight OFF. I know I am not alone on my journey based on the multiple threads at DST. I have decided I want to document this journey and I am asking my digi-friends to join me. I am going to call this "Scrapping the Weight Away" I am working on a blog so once that is done I will link you up :)

For our first "Scrapping the Weight Away" challenge I would like you to create a layout with the following:

one of Amy's templates
a "before" picture
journaling

Here is my layout:

Birthday Templates by Amy Bleser at SBB; Papers, Alpha and Journal Tag from Softer Side by Traci Reed; Ribbon, Photo Turn, Ric Rac, Glitter Negative Frames from For the Love of Clover by Amy Bleser at PDP and DF

Like I said, I have some of Amy's template packs to give away so link me up to your layouts and I will do a random drawing for a couple winners! The deadline to post your links is Feb 15th.

Neglected Once Again!

2008-01-29T22:03:00.000-06:00

So I see that I achieved my New Year's Resolution of posting to my blog more often for approximately 6 days!! Whoa!! WTG Amy! And you would think given the type of coffee I am - I would stay on top of it better.

Anyways, I took the SSD Blog challenge quiz this week. I was somewhat surprised by the answer honestly. Here's what it said:

You Are a Double Espresso

Hey Energizer Bunny Girl! Do you ever slow down?
You're a mix of high energy and ambition, perfectly matched with strong espresso
When you want something you get it - by any means possible
You're driven, determined, and no nonsense. Which is just how you like your java.

What Kind of Coffee Girl Are You?

I would definitely say it was true in my pre-kid years - guess some things never change though!

I am going to hopefully come back tomorrow and update with new products and an RAK or two! In the meantime, thanks for visiting! Have a great night!

2008-01-06T07:56:00.000-06:00

Good morning! It is Sunday morning here on the cusp of the first "normal" week we will have since December 1st. I am so looking forward to getting back into a routine with Aidan in school, Zoey at Mother's Day Out and our other regular routines and activities! Right now the kids are coloring, DH is sleeping and I am watching one of my favorite TV Shows - CBS Sunday Morning. I love the culture/art/comic pieces that they have. A Sunday morning doesn't really feel right unless I get to hear the beautiful trumpet solo that is the shows introduction!

This morning I want to share with you my favorite "wall furnishing." Suzanne over at 123 Scrap is issuing weekly blog challenges and the first challenge is to take a picture of your favorite wall furnishing and to write about it! My favorite is a mobile that I had made for our wedding. Rather than a unity candle, I liked the idea of having a more permanent representation of our union so I asked an Austin artist to make this mobile.

and here is a close-up of the "people."

It makes me happy everytime I see it! If you want to know more about Suzanne's challenge, check out her blog here.

Here's a couple of layouts to share with you from CT kits that were released yesterday. The first is of poor Zoey this week when she was really sick. It is for the Paper to Digi Challenge at Sweet Shoppe Designs. The kit is by Heather Roselli called "Sweetie Pie" also at Sweet Shoppe.

This layout is of my wonderful daughter Zoey at Sea World the other day! She was climbing the ropes at the pirate ship and I happened to capture this picture which I totally love. The kit is by Traci Reed - her newest fabulous kit called "Be the Change" at Sweet Shoppe Designs. The shimmer dust is by Kristin Cronin-Barrow also at Sweet Shoppe Designs.

Okay well I think that is a long enough post for today! Lots of mundane things planned for today - putting away the laundry, meal planning, shopping, meal preparation and more - all to get ready for school to start and to get back into our routine! I hope you have a great day! Please say hello! I love to read your comments!

Friday Freebie and LOAD!

2008-01-04T12:50:00.001-06:00

Just dropping in to share my layout of the day and tell you about the Friday Freebie! No picture yet - unless I want to photo the 8 loads of laundry on my bedroom floor to be done! Not! But here's the layout I did for Day 4 of the Layout of the Day Challenge at Big Picture Scrapbooking. I was so pleased that Eli was willing to go to Santa!

Credits: Sugar Cookie kit by Melissa Bennett; Scalloped Edges by Kristin Cronin-Barrow.

Oh and before I forget - I have the Friday Freebie up at Digital Freebies! It's an add-on to a kit that I have coming out next week called "For the Love of Clover." Here's the preview:

You can pick it up here.

I'll be back with photos of the day and more layouts tomorrow! Lucky girl that I am has a handful of new kits to play with that are being released tomorrow! :) Can't wait to share them with you! Thanks for stopping by! Please say "Hi!" and leave me a comment.

Long Day!!!

2008-01-03T19:20:00.000-06:00

Today seemed like a long day! It was probably that we had to take my Mom to the airport and that made everyone sad! The good news is that she will retire in 5 years and plans to move here to be near to us! I can't wait. Overall we did have a good day - read lots of stories, did a lot of painting/crafts and rode bikes.

It's only been 3 days but so far I'm on top of the Layout A Day challenge and the Photo-A-Day challenge. Here are my photos from yesterday and today:

My children are so lucky to have such a wonderful Grammie. Yesterday Grammie was reading to Eli and they were both so content!

I took this today while the kids were riding bikes. It is looking down the center of a palm tree. I'm reading this book called "Learning to Think Creatively" and so when I turned and saw the pine I thought it might make an interesting photo. I think the potential is there but I didn't hit is this time. I'll keep trying.

My Layout A Day (LOAD) layout for today was this fun one of Eli. My Mom took this picture of him sitting at the table being silly. The layout is a lift of my teammate Shannon's Run Play layout for Traci Reed's team blog.

I think I am going to call it an early night tonight - well sorta. My Sudoko puzzle book is calling me as well as another book that I am reading. It's a little cold out so it seems like a good night to curl up and do some reading and puzzles!

Please leave a comment - I'd love to hear from you! Thanks for stopping by - have a great day/night!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T16:20:00.000-06:00

A day late - I know - late as always! Story of my life! I hope everyone had a nice New Year's Eve! We had a low key one here - sparklers, a movie and a nice dessert. At midnight the neighborhood crazies came out with their fireworks bonanza. It was hysterical - my husband was getting whiplash looking from one direction to another to catch the rockets and other displays. Two guys were running through the cul-de-sac with what looked like baseball bat size sparklers! They were huge! I watched for a bit and then went back to scrapping!

Lots of scrapping lately! I have a bunch of layouts I want to share but first I want to tell you about my new Sketch/Template challenge. I have taken over the Sketch Challenge that Eva Kipler was hosting at Digital Freebies! I am so excited and hope that you join me there - pick up the sketch and create a layout that you love! Take a look at the sketch for the first half of January.

To participate go over to Digital Freebies and check out this thread! Here's the layout I did using the sketch:

Credit: Makin Trax kit by Heather Roselli; Rick Rack by Melissa Bennett; Alpha by Melissa Bennett and Tape by Paula Duncan.

I have lots of scrapping energy these days so I have entered myself into all kinds of crazy challenges. Not sure how long I will keep up but one of them is the Big Picture Scrapbooking's Layout A Day for the month of January. This one will be a huge feat if I do it! We'll see. Here are my 1st 2 layouts:

Credit: All Bundled Up by Heather Roselli; Photo Cluster Frame by Nancy Comelab and Paper Tears by Jen Caputo

Credit: I did this for the Scraplift Challenge at 1-2-3 Scrap; Kit is Makin Trax by Heather Roselli.

And I've decided to do a Photo-A-Day challenge. Go Digital Scrapping is having a challenged called "Project 365." It is obviously daily. And then 1-2-3 Scrap is having a weekly Photo A Day Challenge. I guess that is actually a Photo-A-Week challenge but either way I am definitely going to participate in that one too. Here is my photo for yesterday:

I had to run up the street to get this one. From our house we can't actually see the horizon so I jumped in the car with dinner in the oven and told DH to watch the kids while I went to take my photo. I love having the barbed wire in there. I did that intentionally - it is much more interesting than a straight sunset.

If you all know of any great altered challenges, I would love to know about them. 1-2-3 Scrap has a monthly altered Challenge and I will do that but I'd love to know of others! So link me up if you know of one!

That's about it for now! Thanks for stopping by! Have a good one!

Phew! It's over!

2007-12-27T21:29:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone! "Phew, It's Over" is about all I've got to say! That's not to say that I didn't have a great Christmas or lots of fun through the holiday but it is such a production from the gifts, to the cooking, to the cleaning up - it's nice to now have all of the work behind us and now enjoy our new toys and each other. Aidan is off school till January 7th and I am looking forward to a week of fun with everyone!

Santa was very good to the kids this year - Aidan got his first HO Scale Model Railroad and he is positively over the moon about it! Boy I tell you - this is an expensive hobby however. We went to Hobby Lobby today to look at accessories for his track/train and I was pretty shocked how much everything was. But being the great little Tiger Cub that he is - he decided to save his money and do some arts and crafts activities to add to his railroad. So we made a fabulous tunnel out of a big round mailer, brick like paper and red paint! He loves it!

In stark contrast, Zoey got a $6 fake aquarium from Walgreens from Santa and she was doing a serious whoop it up happy dance. Santa brought her other presents too but by far the one she was most excited about was the fake aquarium with fake plastic fish from Walgreens! Aren't kids hysterical!

Eli loved the hub bub of it all and getting presents too! He was so cute he would get all excited and say "Wow" before he even knen what was in the box! Just unwrapping it was an event for him!

It was a fun Christmas but I am glad that it is over and now we can spend the next week visiting with my Mom (who flew in on Saturday) and relaxing a litte before school, scouts and soccer start up again!

Nothing new on the design front and only a few layouts which I will share soon! On a personal scrapbooking side, I am soooo sooooo excited to announce that Heather Roselli asked me to be on her team! Have you seen the adorable kits she comes out with?? One of her most recent - Making Trax- I have been drooling over since I first got a glimpse of it! Anyone with children who love Trains has to have this kit --- I think that is what I am going to start working on tonight! No shortage of train photos here!

I hope you all had a great Christmas! It will be 2008 in a matter of days - I hope it is a great year for you! Thanks for stopping by!

Merry Christmas (Eve)

2007-12-24T12:40:00.000-06:00

Everyone on Amy's CT would like to wish each and everyone of you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. We hope you have enjoyed the goodies that we handed out this past week. We have one more fun gift before Christmas Day. I will let you in on the surprise since I am SO excited about it!!!

Amy's CT got together and we used Amy's Trading Card Templates (available at SBB) and her Naughty or Nice Mini Kit to make you an 18 page Trading Card album!

We hope you enjoy your Christmas Gift and we would LOVE to see you put it to use, Christmas Eve Download

Stocking Stuffer Dec 23rd!

2007-12-23T07:49:00.000-06:00

Hello faithful bloggers! We on Amy's CT would like to apologize for missing a couple of stocking days! You know that word OVERWHELMED that gets us all at one time or another? Well it seems being a few days before a HUGE holiday can do that to a person or two! And with Amy being very sick with the flu and pneumonia we didn't want to bug her to do more work by giving us presents! LOL! We hope that today's fun stuff will make it worth the wait tho! First off Amy is giving out a coupon for Free Tumbler Templates to the first 20 people who spend $1 or more in her SBB store! If you haven't seen these templates yet let me show you a couple that I made for gifts this year. They are so easy and such a fun gift! This first one has an actual photo of the template printed out and inside the tumbler. I used the Wish and Wonder kit by the SSD Designers, a Flower Felty by Fee Jardine and Tracy Murphy Drop Shadows for this one.

This second one is of my cute boys (I just love to show off my boys) for their Nana. ;) I used Tracy's LJ Kit by Traci Reed to do this one.

So if you want these awesome tumbler templates run on over to Amy's store and use the coupon code "tumblertemps". Remember this goes to the first 20 customers who spend $1 or more! That is so easy to do in Amy's store! So much fun stuff! And remember to make sure you come back here and share what you do so we can give you some lovin!

Publish Post

Howdy, cough, cough! I'm alive!

2007-12-19T20:47:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone! It's been so fun going to my blog every day and seeing all this fun activity! My CT girls are the best - they have really done a great job with the Countdown to Christmas! I hope ya'll have had fun with it too!

I have sort of felt like "Where in the World is Amy" though. We have had a truly miserable December. Aidan, my oldest, got really sick on 12/1 and missed school and any other activities through to 12/10. And then as luck would have it - Aidan went back to school and I got sick the next day. On Friday my 97 year old Grandmother passed away and then on Sunday I was at the ER clinic where I tested positive for Influenza A and a chest xray revealed that I also have pnuemonia! Geez - can it get a whole lot worse? Well of course the answer to that is almost always yet but it did feel darn right stinky on Sunday.

Fortunately I'm feeling much better now, several days of Tamiflu and a good antibiotic and I am getting back to cranking out layouts, gifts and more. I'm going to come back and show ya'll some of my projects I've been working on but for now - I'll show you some super cool layouts some of my CT girls have had a chance to work on in the last week or so.

Kris Baker did this fabulous layout using Little Boy Blue. I love how she used highly themed kit for a layout having nothing to do with the theme! Fantastic!

Traci Reed is an amazing layout artist AND Designer. I positively love this layout titled "Fresh from Heaven."

And my dear friend Pam did this beautiful layout here using the Christmas Paper Bag frames! I love her tears and the little ornaments tucked in the top tears.

Well I wanted to stop and say Hello! Before I go, the coupon for my sale at SBB is still active and is valid for 30% off for a few more days! Here's the ad again:

Well it's time for me to - Eli just came and asked me to change his stinky diaper and that I need to go sing songs to Sissy! Hehe! I'm glad the 2 year old in the house has perspective on things!

Thanks for stopping by! Now, back to your regularly scheduled "Countdown to Christmas!" Have a super evening and stop by again tomorrow - I'm sure there is something fun in store for us all!

Day 5!

2007-12-19T12:13:00.000-06:00

Happy Holidays blog readers! It's Pam here pinning up the Day 5 (SORRY THIS LINK HAS BEEN DISABLED) stocking that CT member Char created for you! And don't forget the sale is still on in Amy's SBB Store so head on over and shop! Amy and all of us on her team hope you are enjoying your holiday goodies and we also hope you will come back and share with us anything you create using them! Oh and don't forget the Guest CT Member contest! Get your layout in by the 22nd for a chance at a sweet gig! Have a great Wednesday all!

Day 4!!

2007-12-18T16:39:00.000-06:00

Hello, it is Amber again. Amy & her CT want to thank everyone who has stopped by the blog to get the stockings each day. We hope that you are enjoying all the treats. Before I get to today's stocking I have a few reminders & announcements.

Amy would like to remind you about the sale at Scrapbook Bytes. If you shop TONIGHT before Midnight & use the coupon you will still get 40%!! PLUS If you spend over $10 at SBB there is also a free kit!! So what are you waiting for?!?! Go get shopping!!

We already have some wonderful layouts submitted for the Guest CT contest. Be sure to link us to your layout before December 22nd.

One last announcement before we get to today's stocking ... Amy has created a mailing list for all of her wonderful customers. Stop by ~>HERE<~ and sign up to be the first to know about sales, specials and contests!

Ok, are you ready for today's stocking? Look no further!!!
SORRY THIS LINK HAS BEEN DISABLED!

Christmas Countdown ~ Day 3

2007-12-17T10:47:00.000-06:00

Hello all! This is Char, one of Amy's CT, posting with another fun stocking stuffer!

First things first - be sure to click HERE for some important news about yesterday's stocking stuffer! You'll be glad you took the time to check!

So, today's item will be perfect for your Teacher Gift needs, and for present toppers, stuffers for gift baskets, and so much more.

I know I'm not supposed to show you what's inside the stocking before you download, but I personally like to peek. (Yes, as a teenager, I was one of those who would check to see if presents could be un-wrapped and re-wrapped without anyone knowing). And I ALWAYS tried to find my gifts before Christmas! So, if you are one of those who likes a sneak peek, scroll down... but if you want to be surprised - CLICK HERE (SORRY THIS LINK HAS BEEN DISABLED) for your Day 3 download!

Scrolling down for peeking....

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(You can click to see the sneak peek larger!)

Now that you're done peeking, CLICK HERE (SORRY THIS LINK HAS BEEN DISABLED) for your Day 3 download

Christmas Countdown ~ Day 3 - Template Still Available Today!

2007-12-17T10:13:00.000-06:00

Hey all you bloggers! Pam, one of Amy's CT members here! Since Amy is feeling a bit under the weather the team has decided to give her a break and leave the awesome freebie template up for one more day! Here is a layout I did with the template using Amy's Bohemian Blossoms kit, her Chicken Scratch Alpha and Clothespin Clusters.

So hurry and grab the sorry no longer available and then show us what you did with it before it's gone!

And lets all send Amy lots of get well wishes too!

Countdown to Christmas ~ Day 2

2007-12-16T14:23:00.000-06:00

Welcome back everyone. This is Amber again. Thank you for taking the time to stop by for Day 2. Sorry it is a little late going up, but better late than never, right?

We have a VERY special announcement today. We hinted at it in yesterday's ad & in some of the forums. Here is the great new ... One of you could win a change to be one of Amy's Guest CT members after the New Year!!!!

Simply use the template stuffed in today's stocking to make a layout to impress and link back to it in the comments of this post before December 22nd. Grab the stocking today, even if you are not sure you are going to apply. The stocking is only available today. After all entries are in, then Amy & her CT will pick a winner to join us for a month! So without further ado ....
~>Sorry, this link is no longer available<~

See everyone back here tomorrow for Day 3!

Countdown to Christmas ~ Day 1

2007-12-15T15:49:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas Everyone!!! This is Amber, one of Amy's CT members here to take over the blog for the next week or so! Amy & her whole CT would like you to join us in celebrating while we countdown to Christmas. Be on the look out for the stocking featured in the ad below each day.

Here is today's freebie ~>Day 1 Stocking Stuffer SORRY THIS LINK IS DISBABLED NOW<~ Remember stockings are surprises so you will have to download to see what you get!!

See you back here tomorrow for Day 2 & a special contest announcement!!

Holiday Party at SBB and a Major Sale!

2007-12-15T10:25:00.000-06:00

Long time no post - story of my life! I thought I'd get on here and share a few things with you and post about the current sale I am running at SBB. Here's the ad:

There's a lot of fun stuff going on at SBB this weekend and over the next few days! So don't miss it - you can find out more about all the activities here. Plus there is a daily search in the forums for a new freebie every day! Learn more about the search here.

And please, please stop back by later today! My CT is going to be hosting a super cool "Countdown to Christmas" with lots of fun freebies, coupons and more! Look for the first post sometime today!

Thanks for stopping by! Have a great day!

Mish Mash, Hodge Podge and New Templates!

2007-11-11T06:08:00.000-06:00

Happy Sunday morning! I love Sunday mornings - the kids know I love to watch the CBS Sunday morning program and generally are anxious to let me do it. One of the kids gets to go to the store with either Dave or I and pick out doughnuts for the family and generally they are lazy fun days. I'm looking forward to the day ahead. I think the kids and are going to make our "Thanks"giving Turkey - can you believe how fast Thanksgiving is approaching?

Except for one end of season soccer party, soccer is pretty much over. Eli did well through the surgery but has had a hard time recovering. Poor little guy he's been miserable. Thanksgiving is right around the corner, Zoey's birthday next and then I'll blink and it will be Christmas. Yikes!

I just added a couple of templates packs to my Scrapbook-Bytes store this morning. here's a preview:

Each is only $2.99 and you can pick them up here.

Oh before, I forget, I have a few things I want to share! First of all, I am hosting a "Alter the Season" challenge at Scrapbook Bytes! Our first project was to make a set of altered blocks and our next project (to be posted today) is going to be a wallhanging using chipboard coasters. Here's a peak at the blocks I made for the challenge.

After the holidays I am going to make a bunch of these up as baby gifts. Wouldn't they be cute with the child's name on them or the word "baby"? The were super easy and fun to make. Come check out the challenge here.

Scrapbook-Bytes new TidBytes is out! If you haven't checked it out - you need to! It is awesome! Jammed packed with fantastic layouts, great tutorials, fabulous freebies and exclusive downloads, digital reviews and more! Don't miss it! I'll come back tomorrow and tell you a little bit more about this photo and project we completed, but in the meantime I will give you a sneak peak.

Aren't those little nuts cute? We made their matching aprons for Thaksgiving from Ali Folendore's "Tasty Tom" kit. I'll come back and talk about the aprons tomorrow!

Well Aidan just walked down the stairs all sleepy which means he's likely to snuggle with Mommy. He won't want to too much longer so I am off! Thanks so much for stopping by - have a great Sunday!

2007-11-05T09:13:00.000-06:00

I was reading a post today at My Scrapbook Art about funny kid stories and one of the members said that her funny kid stories are the source of most of her blog posts and I thought - gee - I should blog! So here I am! Once every 3 weeks is good right? LOL!

Anyways, don't know if you heard it this morning or not but that huge sigh of relief you might have heard was me - this is the last week of soccer till Spring season and Eli's surgery is on Thursday. After this week things should calm down at least some. Yes, there is the holiday craziness but at least not 3 nights and/or days consumed with soccer practice and games, add to that birthday parties and cub scouts. Geez - we are always on the go and even the kids have been complaining that they are never home! Life is going to be incredibly nuts when we have all 3 kids in school and involved in different activities! I missed the Digi Dare "Secret" challenge - but if I had done it - my "secret" would have been that despite the craziness I love it. I waited a long time to have kids and be a soccer Mom so now I secretly love it!

Let's see - what's going on in the digi world! If you haven't seen Traci Reed's newest collection - you are seriously missing out! It is amazing - "The Ones We Love" has 6 kits - 3 girl and 3 boy themed - all with amazing elements and backgrounds! And other big news for Traci is that she is now at Sweet Shoppe Designs and has opened her own shop - http://www.tracireed.com/. Here are 4 layouts I did with Traci's new designs!

Zoey at the Duck Pond is using Traci's "Evie Jo" kit and the DSD Template by Rachael Gialliongo.

Obviously I have been in a mood to scrap the boys! Check out Traci's new collection here!

Oh and the some of the biggest news is our house is that I had my birthday last week and even I missed it! LOL! I had planned to have a big sale, a bunch of new products and a freebie! Well, as is so typical of my life, I missed it. My Mom says I was 2 weeks late when I was born and have never been on time since. Well she's sort of right and if missing my own digi birthday party doesn't prove that - I dont' know what. Bottom line - I am going to have a belated birthday celebration and a fun word art pack about getting old free for everyone!

Thanks for stopping by! I hope to have a few things to share with you in the next day or two. In the meantime - have a great day!

Lookie Lookie!!!

2007-10-12T14:52:00.000-05:00

How do you like my new look? It is a combination of the incredible designs of Dani Mogstad and Jacque Larsen and a new set of blog header templates that I put together! Let me tell you - Dani's new kit and alpha set - OMG - they are incredible! Soooooo cute!

So, clearly I am terrible about updating the look of my blog. But, I wanted to do something fun for Halloween and one thing led to another and I designed these 6 blog headers. It as so easy and fun - I'll be creating new ones all the time!

You can purchase the header templates in my SBB store here.

One of my CT members Biancka did an awesome header using the templates - check out her header here:

Biancka's blog is awesome! I will link you all up in a little bit when I am back from the Parent-Teacher conference. Aidan's 1st report card comes home today! :)

A little light humor for you all. I spent this morning high pressure cleaning my driveway. It was a real opportunity to be with my thoughts while I washed away the dirt on the driveway and the front of the house. The following realizations made me realize that I am addicted to digiscrapping and designing:

1) While pressure washing the driveway, I was wondering if I should take a picture and scrap the before/after process.

2) We have a welcome mat that has an interesting pattern of "holes" in it - I put it on the driveway and cleaned the driveway between the holes - wondering if there was a way I could turn that pattern into a brush.

3) Texture - lots of texture out there.

4) And then once a lot of the dirt was washed away - I found oil stains or other stains on the driveway and I thought about how cool they would look as a brush or element.

Yes, these are the profound (haha) thoughts of a digi-scrap addict with a few minutes of uninterrupted menial task work. :)

Thanks for stopping by! Have a great day and rest of your weekend! And - check back tomorrow - or at least go to Sweet Shoppe Designs and check out Dani's new kit - it is awesome!!

TTFN!

A Little Treat!

2007-10-10T14:31:00.000-05:00

Good afternoon! I have to be very quick - need to pick up my son at school in a few minutes - but I wanted to make sure I got on here and posted a little treat! One of my CT members and friends, Tanya, designed this cute Treat Bag Topper! Isn't it cute!!! She made it with the Hallowbling Kit that my dear friend Traci Reed and I did together! You can see the full kit here! It is such a fun kit! If you download the Treat Topper here, please be sure to leave a little comment! Thanks for visiting! Have a great day!

Lots of Scraps and Good News!!

2007-10-10T00:55:00.001-05:00

I've been scrapping! Last week I really felt like I was needing a break so I took a few days off from "work" and just scrapped and hung out with my family. It was great and soooo energizing. We went to the Zoo and to a favorite Pumpkin Patch. I'd like to say it generated tons of great photos - but it didn't! I did get one great photo of A and Z - or so I thought - when I looked at it a 2nd time - I realized that the tree behind Aidan makes it look like he has antlers! Great big antlers! Hopefully with a lot of cropping and some clone stamp work, I'll be able to minimize them.

I am so excited - this month I am Guest CT for Karah Fredericks. Karah is the owner and designer extraordinare at Blue Flombingo! It's been a blast so far and I've created a few layouts using her awesome designs already! Here's one:

I love the colors, alpha and "natural" elements in Karah's September Rain kit. In addition, I used her paper folds and the template that Karah is offering on her blog! Don't forget to run over there and enter Karah's sketch contest. Not only do you get the free sketch but you might also win a gift certificate to her store!

And yesterday I got a pm from Rachael Gaillongo at The Digi Shoppe asking me to be a Guest CT Member for the remainder of the year!!! Wooo hooo - template heaven! Rachael's templates are awesome! Here are 2 layouts I did last night and today using her templates!

Hint, hint!!! This fabulous template is available in Rachael's Grab Bag currently available at The Digi Shoppe. Isn't the kit awesome too?? It is titled "Autumn Mix" by LaWanna Desjardin at SBB. Great kit!

The layout above titled "Intense Beauty" is of Zoey pouting! But even pouting she is beautiful! I used Kristin Cronin-Barrow's wonderful Rustic Autumn kit and a template from Rachael's Round and Round Template pack. The stitching is from Dani Mogstad's "Imperfect Circles" element pack.

Okay - now I must really go to bed - it is very late! Thanks for stopping by! Please leave a comment and say "Hi!" Till tomorrow!!

It's Calendar Time!

2007-09-10T19:41:00.000-05:00

Well the Bleser household has officially reached maximum craziness! Aidan and Zoey started soccer last week - Aidan practices 2x's a week, Zoey only 1. Zoey and Eli start Mother's Day Out tomorrow - 2 days a week from 9 - 2! And the Scouts start next week too although as the Den Leaders, Dave and I are fast and furiously getting prepared! So, between scouts, school, soccer and regular life - we are maxed out! So far it has been fun but then it is only beginning!

I can't believe that not only is it time to start making our Holiday presents, but according to my gift list - I am already behind. Between the calendars, the magnets, the altered items etc - I'll be working from now till January trying to get them all done!

To that end - one of my CT members - Tanya - turned me onto something called "The Holiday Plan." It is a week-by-week organization plan to get your house in order, your gifts bought and made and your baking done! It's pretty cool - check it out!

Some of you may recognize my "Just the Tops" calendar toppers! Well I am re-releasing them and they are better than ever! They are now available in .png format! You can find them here! They are only $8 but for all my blog readers (yes the 2 of you), I am offering a 25% off coupon good till the end of the month. The code is: letsgetstarted08

I love these templates and they will help you (and I) get your annual calendar done in a Jiffy! Last year I ordered mine from Winkflash and was sooo pleased with the quality, I am planning to use them again this year. Hopefully they will have an incentive for early birds who get done early! (as if I would be one of them).

Thanks so much for checking in! I hope you will scroll down and pick up the free template a post below! And please do say Hi!

A Little Something!

2007-09-05T22:31:00.000-05:00

Hi ya'll!! I am going to call it an early night! Tomorrow is a busy day - Eli and Zoey get to meet their Mother's Day Out teachers and Eli has a doctor's appointment - again! Poor little guy - he's got an awful ear infection and the antibiotics he has been on for a week aren't helping! :( Add to that a couple of errands that we need to do, taking Aidan to school and picking him up, homework, completing an altered "Mommy and Me" project tomorrow and etc - that's a busy day!

But before, I head to bed, I have something to share! It has been forever since I gave away a freebie just for the fun of it - sooooooo I decided it was high time! Here is a fun and unique (I think!) template for you! The template is based on the layout above that I created using Scrapbook-Bytes' Element Team MegaKit for August - Hit the Trail! It is an awesome kit - the textures and elements are so fabulous! And it is only $5! Check it out here!

Download my template here! I hope you like the template! If you download the template - please leave a comment! And please don't directly link to the freebie - if you want to share the template with someone - that's great - just send them a link to my blog!

Keep a look out - in a few days I'll be re-releasing my calendar tops templates! They are fabulous for working on your 2008 calendar! :) I hope to have them out before the weekend!

Thanks for stopping by! Have a great night!

Yay Traci!

2007-09-05T12:58:00.000-05:00

I am going to be a better blogger, I am going to be a better blogger, I am going to be a better blogger. Maybe if I say it 10 times it will come true?? Maybe? Oh well - such is life!

Speaking of life, Aidan started school, Eli has an ear infection, Zoey is enjoying her time with Mommy and looking forward to Mother's Day Out starting next week! I am looking forward to the 10 hours a week without any kids! Not sure exactly what I am going to do during that time but I am sure I will fill it somehow!

Big congratulations to my friend and Designer Extraordinaire - Traci Reed! She is the featured artist in Digital Artist Magazine! Her designs are really amazing and she continues to impress me with her talent and also how incredibly special she is as a Mom and Woman. If you haven't checked out the magazine yet, it is a great magazine! Plus this month you will get a free kit titled "The Softer Side" by Traci. Here is a layout I did of Zoey using it!

To see layout and full credits, click here!

The kit is really beautiful! Traci's colors are always fabulous and her elements are top notch and always creative!

I can't spend all of my time blogging this afternoon - I've got work to do! LOL! But I definitely wanted to make sure that everyone heard about Traci's wonderful kit and her incredible talent!

Thanks for stopping by! I love it when people leave comments, so please say Hi! Have a great afternoon! Oh and just for fun, here's a layout that I did last night real quick!

Credits here!

Okay well again, thanks for stopping by!

Everytime

2007-08-22T12:21:00.000-05:00

I think life my life is boring or unexciting - the kids remind me how not true that is! Hehe! And for glamour - well being a SAHM has it all! Yesterday the kids and I had a fun, full day planned. We left the house headed first for the Children's Museum and then for hair cuts, shoe shopping, dinner, ice cream (if they behaved) and last minute school supply shopping. The kids had fun and we all had a great time. The highlight (and I say that most sarcastically) was when my oldest son dropped his pretend police badge in the toilet. Yes, of course, it has to be the toilet he had just used. Ah yes, the glamour and humor of scooping his police badge out of the toilet. Fun!

I could go on and on with tid bits of fun like this. But I'll spare you all!

My CT has been working with my new kit (see post below) and I am so excited to share with you these layouts:

This layout is by Neisha (aka Lavendar)! Isn't it lovely! I love how she used the frame, the photo grouping and the flowers. Beautiful Neisha! My good friend and team member Char did this wonderful layout (below) with a picture of her Grandmother using Grammie's Apron too!

The last one I am going to show you today is by Guest CT member Jamie (aka azrood)! How seriously cute is her daughter?

Thanks to my wonderful CT for allowing me to share these layouts with you! Just a note - I am leaving the contest open for another day - so, please leave a comment in the post below too and you'll be entered to win the Americana kit! Your chances are pretty good now!

I appreciate you stopping by! The cable guy just got here so I'm going to run before I lose this post! I'll be blog hopping later! Have a great day!

New Kit, a little contest and more!

2007-08-21T08:33:00.000-05:00

Good morning! It's been way too long since I blogged so today I am going to do it up big - I have a new kit to show you, new layouts and a contest! Lots of fun stuff!

On a personal note, I can't believe that Aidan starts 1st Grade next week. Wow! He's really grown into a goofy boy this Summer. He's such a nut - filled with goofy smiles, expressions, dances and more. I hope that goofiness doesn't translate to him getting into trouble at school. He had no trouble last year but he is so much more animated now.

Zoey girl is living it up! We decided it was time to give her her own room and she is thrilled. I am in the process of decorating it and I am having the greatest time taking advantage of all the great altered projects at Traci Reed's Team blog and Dani Mogstad's Girl Talk. Zoey is also excited because she has a new bunny! His name is Bun Bun and he is sooo cute and furry!

Eli turned 2 on the 12th. We had a family birthday party with fun bright red cupcakes and lots of Diego presents. It looked like Diego mania in our living room.

I am so lucky to be on the best CT's! I've been a bad blogger and haven't kept up so instead I created a slide show with many of my recent layouts using kits by Traci Reed, Dani Mogstad and LaWanna Desjardin.

I am very excited to share with you my newest kit! After more than a month away from designing - it felt great to get back into it. My newest kit is titled "Grammie's Apron" and you can see it at the top of the post. It is available at Scrapbook-Bytes. I'm really pleased with how it turned out and hope you like it too! My CT is working away with it and I hope to share some layouts with you that they have done with it soon!

Okay, now for the contest! Did you know that the Scrapbook-Bytes Design Team puts together an incredible monthly megakit available for only $5.00? They are available here. I participated in the July kit and therefore have 1 to give away to 1 lucky blog commenter. So, leave a comment for me and my DH will pick a random number and that person will be the winner.

Here is a preview of the July kit:

Pretty isn't it! All you have to do is leave a comment before Wednesday at noon and you could win it!

One last thing to share - today Fantacy is having a crop at 1:00 - 2:00 in the Scrapbook-Bytes chat room. I have it on good authority that the chat freebie is fabulous. So join Fantacy - she's a lot of fun and you'll do a layout and get a beautiful freebie. For more information, visit here.

Thanks so much for visiting and staying with me this long! Have a great day!

2007-07-30T21:12:00.001-05:00

Yay! We are finally home! A great time was had by all and the 4,000 mile roundtrip drive was actually - well - fun! We made many great stops, had a lot of fun and overall it was a major adventure. We just got home on late Friday night so I am still in the process of settling in and trying to get back into some sort of routine!

Thanks to all of my CT members for keeping things going while I was away! Admittedly I am the worse, absolutely the worse Designer when it comes to my CT. I am so fortunate to have an amazing group of ladies scrapping with my designs and always being so incredibly supportive! Thanks to each of you for keeping my designs out there while I was gone and just being so wonderful all around!

Shamelessly, I am starting to get settled in by re-connecting and participating in all of the challenges at SSD. Lauren and Robin have a new kit which I much have and therefore am trying to rack up those challenge points so I can pick it up. To that end, I took the little quiz about what type nailpolish I am - here's what the quiz revealed.

Your Nail Polish Color is Pink

How you're unique: You're girly without being high maintenance

Why your style rocks: You're the perfect blend of stylish, preppy, and cute

What this color says about you: "I am secure enough not to follow every trend"

What Color Nail Polish Best Fits You?

Hmmm - interesting since right now I have blue nailpolish on my toes.

Okay well I will be back!!! I will, I will, I will - before the end of the week! I have a new sketch pack to release, vacation photos to share with you all and a little contest!

Thanks for stopping by. Have a great night!

We have our 1st Winner!

2007-07-13T17:21:00.001-05:00

Hi! Amber here as a guest blogger while Amy is on vacation. I am so excited to get to show off our very first winner in the "Get Caught" contest. There are SO many wonderful layouts in the galleries using Amy's Designs & Templates, but congratulations to SusieU.K. !!!!! Her layout layout featuring Daddy's Girl was really a stand out for me & the CT. I love the repeating rows of flowers and her daughter is just adorable!

Click ~>here<~ for credits and to leave Susie some love and congratulate her on winning! I would love to see some more layouts with Daddy's Girl. Just leave a link to your layout in the comments and you might be the next person to "Get Caught"!!!

While Amy is away....

2007-07-06T02:02:00.000-05:00

...her CT is gonna play!! Yes, I have access to Amy's blog, and I think we're gonna use it while she's out of town for her month-long vacation!

We (her CT) have a few things cooked up for you, to make the time go faster until Amy comes home again. We have a few contests coming soon, where you can win fabulous prizes (like coupons and gift certificates, oh my!)... and a few of us will be posting to the blog in her absense, so it doesn't get TOO dusty around here.

Be sure to visit again SOON for more details, because while Amy's away, we're gonna PLAY!

ETA: Here is our first contest:

"Get Caught"!

If you can't see the image, here is the text:

Get Caught!

Amy Bleser is out of town on a nice LONG
summer trip. While she's gone, we (her
CT) will be on the look-out for layouts
that feature Amy's designs. If you GET
CAUGHT using Amy's designs on a layout,
you just might win a prize!!

The Get Caught contest will run from
July 9th until Amy gets home sometime
around the 1st of August.

So, get busy, use Amy's designs, upload
your layouts, and GET CAUGHT by Amy's
Creative Team!

2007-06-12T10:30:00.000-05:00

Where has the week gone? Seems like they just go by quicker and quicker now. Just 17 days till our big family adventure and I have a million things to do! Ugh! Sometimes I find it hard to get back into blogging when I have been negligent for a while, so I decided to just start with the Hot of the Presses topic from The Digi Shoppe!

The topic of the day is home remedies for being sick. Well I can't say that I have a lot of them but I always find wonton soup or thai chicken soup has seemed to help. Don't ask why - maybe it is just a mood adjustment but whenever I am feeling lousy that is what I want. I just love Asian food so it's probably mostly an excuse to have more! Hahaha!

Lots of fun things going on and new products. My most exciting news right now is the new title and blinkie that I am sporting! Want to see?

In case you don't recognize it - it is a Scrapbook-Bytes Design Team Member blinkie! I'm so excited to have been asked to join the DTM of Scrapbook-Bytes. SBB is the first site I started digiscrapping on and it has a special place in my heart! I remember at the time being in awe of the DTM's. And now, woo hoo, 3 years later I get to play with them! Very exciting for me!

I have a new template pack out - Starting Blocks II. It is available in .psd, .png and .jpeg formats and is on sale for only $2.49 till Thursday.

You can find them in my SBB store.

Oh and one more fun thing! Yesterday I was asked by Karah Fredericks to serve on her Guest CT one month in the Fall! I am sooo excited! I love Karah's paper folds and can't wait for the chance to work with more of her designs!

See - now that I've started blogging (or typing to myself as the case may be) I can't stop! Thank you to the wonderful layout designers who applied for my CT. I will be making decisions and sending out offers today! I am so excited and just a little nervous - hoping all these ladies will accept and will love my designs when they start working with them!

I better stop rambling and go and do something around the house. Thanks so much for stopping by! Leave me a comment and say Hi! I love to hear from anyone who stops by! Have a great day!

Guest CT Call!

2007-06-05T14:32:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday! For some reason I am completely confused about what day it is this week! I woke up yesterday thinking it was Tuesday! As a result, I'm all off. I guess it is because school is out and I don't have to keep track of what days Aidan has to wear what or needs a lunch etc! The lack of craziness is so nice.

Swim team was cancelled this morning because of weather so it gave us the opportunity to have a quiet day at home. We have painted, played and painted again. Currently the kids are bugging me about whether their race cars are dry or not! They are anxious to put the stickers on them and race them! Once they are dry, we will have a few races, do some of our Summer Bridge activities and then we are going to start our rock garden! I have this cute little book called "Summer Dailies" and it has "Fun, educational activities for each day of the Summer!" One of the ideas is to go on a scavenger hunt for the prettiest rock in the neighborhood, bring it home and start a rock garden. And then to do this each week of the summer and watch your garden grow! The perfect thing for our very poor Texas soil here!

I start water aerobics tonight! And I completely ordered the wrong bathing suit for it! The tank bathing suit does not have enough support for all sorts of jumping and bouncing in the water. Guess I'll have to buy another one which is a total drag because I certainly am not pleased about the way I look in a bathing suit these days. Maybe water aerobics will help with that!

Well before quiet time expires and Eli wakes, I need to get some things done so I better get off here, but before I do, I have a couple things to share! First, is that there is one more day to save on my Daddy's Girl kit! It is on sale at SBB for just $4.50 through tomorrow. And secondly, I'm having a Guest CT call! I am excited and nervous at the same time! I sure hope someone out there applies! :)

Okay, off to get our activities pulled together and a few other mundane things! Thanks so much for stopping by! I hope you have a great day!

New Designs, A Coupon and A Way to Help!

2007-06-04T13:07:00.000-05:00

Aaaaah! Can you hear that? The world is just a little bit quieter now that my 2 youngest are down for a nap and the oldest is playing with his K'Nex for quiet time! This is definitely one of my favorite times of the day! It's quiet, no little nuts hanging from the ceiling fans or running through the house like wild animals. Aaaah!

I had to take a little break yesterday from scrappin' to design a little! Afterall, I have to pay for my scrapping habit with something! LOL! So, I put together this little Trading Card Album Templates. These little albums are so cute! They are fast as anything to put together and a big hit with everyone!

They are available here at Scrapbook-Bytes for just $4.00. However here is a little coupon for you good for 25% off through the end of June: 25offtctemplates. They are a super cute Father's Day gift!

Oh and before I forget, I want to share with you a really easy way to help out "Reading is Fundamental." If you go to the Scholastic website and sign your child up for their Summer Buzz program, for every 4 books you read and log, they will donate 1 to RIF. My kids love to read so we are avid readers and it would be hard to log all the books we read, but whenever we do a big sit down and read session, I pile the books we read up and then go to their website and enter in what we read and approximately how many minutes! Yesterday we read for a solid 55 minutes! Spread the word - the more books children have the more they learn about their world and can be inspired to challenge themselves to achieve their dreams!

Today has been pretty quiet so far. After naps and quiet time we are going to do some of our Summer school work and then head back to the pool for some afternoon exercise. Tonight I am hoping to make a layout with Kristin Cronin-Barrow's newest kit - it is soooo beautiful! Take a look:

Isn't it just beautiful! And with my crazy Zoey girl - it will make just the most amazing layouts! It went in the store this morning, you can find it here!

And one more thing - if you haven't already applied for Traci Reed's CT call - do it!!!! She is an amazing designer and is incredibly nice and fun to work with! You will really enjoy working with her and being on her CT. Here's the her CT Call ad and if you want to check out her designs, see them here!

Are you still with me? Thanks if you are - this was one long post! :) I did some cardboard polaroid frames over the weekend that I hope to put together and put up as a freebie! So do check back in a couple of days! Thanks so much for stopping by and getting this far down! Have a fabulous day!!! ((hugs))

2007-06-03T12:12:00.000-05:00

Gosh it has been so busy around here lately I never got back to report on how Aidan did in the swim meet, do any enabling or show off some new layouts!

First, the swim meet! Aidan did great at warm up and was looking like he was going to have a good swim. Then I don't know if they unilaterally decided that the 6 and under kids would use a kickboard or if that was an option. Either way it seemed to totally throw Aidan off. He didn't seem to understand that it was a "race" so he pretty much took his sweet time, looked around and enjoyed the swim! He's 6 - it was totally fine and amusing! In fact, my Mom has a story that she tells about me doing pretty much the same thing on the soccer field. It's all good! I got some good photos and we had a fun experience all around. Zoey had a fabulous time playing along the fence where the trees are looking for bugs and playing with a friend! All and all - it was a fun way to spend a Friday night!

I did get to scrap some this weekend already - in fact 3 layouts. Let me show you or you can see it here!

This is using Dani's new kit titled Sweet Summer Pop! I got up yesterday morning and the first thing I did was go to the Sweet Shoppe to see what new kit Dani had out and grabbed it up! Of course that is pretty much what I do every Saturday morning! If you haven't seen the kit yet, lookie here:

I just love that sun and the cloud! And the fabulous colors - well it is a Dani kit - need I say more! I did the Cookie Decorating challenge at Sweet Shoppe using the kit too - see:

And then the 3rd layout I did was with Jessica Bolton's Homelife Kit! I have become a real fan of her work! Here is my layout:

I bought a couple other things yesterday too! I bought Shawna Clingerman's newest kit and 2 things from Meredith Fenwick.

Daddy's Girl and more!

2007-06-01T07:17:00.000-05:00

Good morning! Tonight Aidan has his first swimteam meet! Yesterday they had that poor boy swimming up and down the length of the pool so I think he is ready physically but I am sure he doesn't know what to expect tonight so we will see! You can be sure I will have lots of photos to share!

Today's "Hot Topic of the Day" at TDS is "Why we scrap." This is such an easy one for me today! On Wednesday, Aidan's last day of school, my Mom told me that on my last day of schools she always took me to the Village Green for ice cream! Unfortunately, I have no memory of this and if she wasn't here to tell me, I would not have known that she had this nice tradition for me! And now that I do know it, it makes me feel just a little more loved. I scrap so that my children have this! So that they remember (or are reminded) of the little things and traditions that we have. I scrap about me and my feelings for them so they know they are loved and that I am proud of them. My life is so much better with them in it - I want them to know that and feel that through their scrapbook pages.

Okay, that's enough sappiness even for me at the moment! I am so excited to share with you my newest kit - Daddy's Girl! (See picture above.) I have so many pictures of Zoey and her Daddy that I want to scrap with a feminine kit but so often they are just a little too feminine for pictures of Daddy too. So along came "Daddy's Girl". It's on sale at Scrapb00k-Bytes through Wendesday for just $4.50. You can take a closer look or purchase it here!.

I have the best Creative Team! These ladies are both fabulous scrappers, CT members and friends! Here's a small showing of what they have done with Daddy's Girl!

Layout by Kris Baker

Layout by Alane (aka marnie4two)

Layout by Maria LaFrance

Aren't those just fabulous! I have more to share but I will do that later! Thanks so much for stoppin in and taking a look!

Any fun plans for the weekend? We are headed to a little town called Hondo for a "Fly-In". More fuel for my sons interest in airplanes of all kinds! Other than that, the meet tonight and tons of laundry! I love reading your comments and learning what everyone else is up to - so what about you? What are you up to this weekend? Thanks again for visiting! I hope have a great weekend!

Template Crop! First Day with Aidan home! And more!

2007-05-31T11:27:00.000-05:00

Good morning! Today has been such a great day so far! We got up early and went to Aidan's swimteam practice! They had him swimming the length of the pool about a dozen times! This is particularly exciting since yesterday was the first day he ever swam the entire length of the pool on his own! He's going to be in the IronMan contest before we know it! LOL! The kids have been playing well, Aidan has been building with his K'Nex and now Eli is sleeping! Aaaah - the day is good!

I am hosting my first Template Crop tonight at Scrapbook-Bytes! I hope you will join me! Here's so more info:

Here's a layout that I did using the template and my new kit (to be in my SBB store today) called Daddy's Girl!

I'll be back to talk about my new kit later and a little contest! But I wanted to let you know about the crop tonight as soon as possible!

Oh, and one more thing, check out the smilebox slideshow below! I just found out about it yesterday - too cool! And Dani Mogstad is working with them to develop online albums that you can create using her designs! Can't get much better than that! Have a great day!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

2007-05-30T21:29:00.000-05:00

Click to play | Make your own Smilebox

My friend Laura (aka scrappinsweetie) turned me on to Smilebox. So this is really a test post to see if it works! Hehe! If it does, you'll have to indulge me for a few minutes with photos of the family! :) Thanks!

Gotta Post and Run

2007-05-29T12:34:00.000-05:00

This is going to be a short post since I am still frantically trying to finish up my son's teacher's scrapbook. No rush - school ends tomorrow! I'm in pretty good shape - just 4 more pages to go! All the others have been printed out at Costco and DH can pick them up on his way home from school. But I did want to share the layouts I completed yesterday! I think I actually managed to include something from just about every CT that I am on! Wasn't intential for it to end up that way - it is just that is where I start when I open up ACDSee.

See the layout credits here.

Credits here.

Well that's it for me for the moment. Zoey is sleeping and Eli is watching "Go Diego, Go!" so I need to take advantage of that time.

Have a great day! Thanks for stopping by and seeing what we are up to! ((hugs))

Hot Off the Presses - Topic Starter!

2007-05-28T10:12:00.000-05:00

Biancka, Cheerleader at TDS, has this great new challenge/inspiration for our blogs! She provides us with a topic everyday! Love it! Great way to get us thinking about all sorts of things outside of the mundane daily life things! Don't get me wrong - being the Mom of 3 is full of daily adventures, but sometimes it is nice to think of something other than the baby's diaper exploded, the cat threw up on my book and I am tired of making dinner! Hehe!

Okay, so the daily prompt is "5 top annoyances." I told Biancka I was going to have a tough time stopping at 5. Hehe! So here goes:
1) People waiting for my parking space. Seriously, I have 3 kids, getting them all in the car after a shopping adventure is a major event. Get them strapped in, load up out purchases, put away the cart, get them the snacks they want or books to read or whatever they want and then to realize that the baby needs a diaper change. All this while someone is waiting is just stressful and annoying - really you can walk another few feet or so. Does this drive anyone else nuts?
2) Not being able to find the perfect kit! I must admit that since having ACDSee this doesn't happen too much. I have a better idea of what I have and am more able to combine elements from other kits and designers.
3) Our fish tank! A few weeks ago out fish tank was beautiful. Clear and clean. The fish were happy. But it needed water. I added 1 gallon of water (it's a 10 gallon tank) and within hours, it was all cloudy! What is that all about! And it has a place of prominence in the house so it looks completely yucky! Grrr!
4) My DH's ongoing obsessive complaining about traffic lights! DH finds traffic lights very annoying, he thinks there is a little man in them that says "oh here comes Dave, we better change quick!" Obviously he doesn't really think that but if a light does not suit him, for any reason, he complains and moans and groans. To me, traffic lights are a fact of life, why get upset by them.
5) (Because this is what is currently annoying me) Alarms. This morning for some reason our house alarm went off - for no reason at all - just started going off. And now the car is going off. What's that about?

Okay, so there is my 5 annoyances. In no way does that reflect my true life annoyances - well not really - but it is where I am this morning! If you want to play along with Biancka's daily prompts, check out her blog here or the post at TDS!

Now, design news! I finished a new kit and I couldn't be more excited about it! I plan on releasing it on Thursday - gives me some time and my CT some time to do some layouts with it! And for fun, I think I am going to do a little contest later in the week and give away a few of them. So, come back later this week! It might be you!

Thanks so much for stopping by! I hope you have a great day!

2007-05-27T10:50:00.000-05:00

Good morning! Can you tell that I am loving the new blog! It's nice to be able to come in here and just post - not feel like I have to do anything fancy with it!

It's been rainy all weekend so we have not done much. While there are a ton of fun outside things to do here, there are few indoor things for young kids. But the kids did go to the park with DH yesterday so that was at least some opportunity to blow off steam. Today we are going to hang out, read, watch the Indianapolis 500 and if the weather holds, go to the park for at least as long as it isn't raining.

Yesterday was a lot of fun, I got a layout done and the crop at SBB was great! I was worried about the crop - I am so out of practice with hosting them - but it went well and everyone seemed to like the template! Yay!

I did get one layout done yesterday using Stacie Prinzo's new fun kit titled Summer Flirt and it is available and on sale at The Digi Shoppe. I also used some goodies by Laura Deceatis too. To see full credits, click here.

Well the natives are restless, so I must go. But before I do, I just want to remind you all of my weekend sale!

Thanks for stopping by! Have a great rest of your day!

How Weird Am I? Not Much Apparently!

2007-05-26T15:08:00.001-05:00

My husband would so beg to differ with the results of this quiz. Even I am a little perplexed that I am not weirder than it says! Hmmm...

You Are 40% Weird

Normal enough to know that you're weird...
But too damn weird to do anything about it!

How Weird Are You?

I love the SSD Blog - there are always lots of fun things on it! This one included. So, how weird are you???

Thanks for stopping in!

Template Crop at 2 pm EST at SBB!

2007-05-26T12:17:00.001-05:00

I am very excited to be hosting a template crop at SBB today! We are celebrating the new look at SBB! Love the new colors and designs! So fun and fresh! Take a peak at the template that we will be working with and the layout I did using it with Kristin Cronin-Barrow's awesome Happy Day kit here!

Hope to see you in a few minutes!

New Blog!!

2007-05-26T11:01:00.000-05:00

In all areas of my life right now I am trying to "downsize." Downsize my extracurricular activites, downsize my computer time, downsize our spending etc etc. And downsize the number of things that I let cause me stress. How does this relate to a new blog? Well I have always felt that if I was going to call myself a "Digital Scrapbook Designer" that I had to be able to have a flashy, self designed blog. But I am really not interested in learning the html and other things that I would need to know to do that. I would much rather spend time with the kids, designing or scrapping. So, I am letting that go and signed up here for an easy to manage Blog! No more stressing out over it or resenting it each time I think of it or log in. The easier the better in my book for the blog!

Thanks for stopping by. I am still formatting but hope that by the end of the weekend I will have fun things to share! Have a great day!