Before May is history......

.... I need to share what I accomplished with my scrapping. We had a crop at The ScrapRoom and with the weekly challenges, I managed 8, yes 8!, layouts in the week's time!

First one up was my challenge - "Look Up In The Sky!" The participants had to use white, blue, and yellow only. I also double dipped papa's princess with the "Heavy Metal" challenge and added some staples to the little banner in the upper right corner. Then I went on to triple dip it for one of the three lifts I did for the scrap lift challenge - see more layouts below.

 March '12 was for the "Photo Inspiration" challenge and I chose the pretty greens and yellows.

carefree was black and white with a touch of one color that was in your photos challenge. This one was a bit of a challenge because I knew exactly what photos I wanted, but had a hard time with coming up with a title. My DH looked at it and said "she looks so carefree" and BAM! it quickly became the title!

 These next three are for the scrap lift challenge, which I couldn't do just once, but THREE times! This first one, hanging out, I lifted Mel and double dipped with a recipe challenge from the Mods.

 In WHEE! I lifted the strips of paper like Andrea did in hers. So glad I kept those scraps of paper!

And I just couldn't resist these cute photos and made a quick layout from scraps of my youngest grand baby here in You Go Girl!

Celebrate 75! was from a weekly MOD challenge at The ScrapRoom. We were to incorporate a number in the title. I'm also in a sketch class at Zanny Zinnia and this is sketch #1

 And mom's day I just did to commemorate my Mother's Day spent with my kids. :-)

Hopefully I'll get back to my scrap table sometime this weekend and get busy with some more layouts. Thanks for stopping by!

Godspeed

I did it!

My pantry/freezer meal challenge was definitely what the cupboards and freezer needed! I still have plenty of foodstuff left and will continue into June! Just picked up a few items from the grocery store and gave my self an "allowance" for the month on a gift card. I'm determined to cut this grocery bill down to size and keep it that way!

Wish me luck for June!

Godspped

eggstravaganza!

Not getting as much done this weekend as I had hoped in my scrappy space, but that's what happens when the sun finally appears!

These photos are from Easter this year and just a bit of "monkey business" that is my everyday life. Wouldn't have it any other way! I adapted this two page sketch found in Sketches for Scrapbooking, vol. six into an 8 1/2 x 11.

And now before it gets bright and sunny out, I'm off to finish up another that I've started!

Godspeed

Happy NSD!!

This afternoon I ventured out to Craft Warehouse, the only scrappy supply place for miles around here. They try their best to carry the latest in scrapbooking and crafty supplies and I haven't been disappointed yet. Anyways, they were doing some darling make & takes and although I stood in line for almost 90 minutes I found out that scrapbookers truly are the chattiest people on the planet! It was a long wait and my feet were not happy - wrong shoes! - but this is what I came home with:

Of course I just had to buy a few things while there to make a few more of these for some very good friends of mine! I think they'll love it just as much and I do. :-)

Now back to scrapping! Godspeed

My Monthly Food Challenge!

When work for Butch took a downturn last month, it made payroll on the first rather bleak and I knew I had to make a HUGE adjustment to the food allowance. So, I've challenged myself to eating from the pantry and freezer for the month of May, only going to the store for perishable items such as eggs, milk, and fresh veggies. Now as someone on a gluten free/wheat free diet, that can be quite tasking but I'm so up for the challenge! Thank goodness I stocked up on my supplies for baking my breads and Makayla's pancakes last month, PHEW!

Those cookies I posted earlier, yeah, they came from the pantry. I have so much stuff in there that just keeps getting pushed further back that I'm sure some of it is past expiration date. I never even realized canned foods came with an expiration date till I opened a can of tomato sauce, noticed it was brownish and saw the date of 2008!! WOW!! That one REALLY got lost!! And the freezer, let's just not go there!

So, this afternoon I pulled out a whole chicken, stewed it up in a pot, added potatoes, frozen veggies, some celery from the fridge and now eating a nice hot bowl of this chicken concoction that tastes rather yummy. And the best part, there is plenty to separate and store in the freezer for my lunches next week!

I never realized just how frugal I could be once I set my mind on it!! I'll keep ya posted on how this all transpires. :-)

Godspeed

YUMMY!!!

Who says eating a gluten free diet has to be bland and non-eventful? Ever since being diagnosed I have been all over the Internet and hoarding recipes to try when time permits. I had a few minutes yesterday afternoon and made these.

WOW!!! What an awesome taste!! They taste just like peanut butter cups which I absolutely LOVE!!

Flourless Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Mix together:
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup naturally organic peanut butter
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla
Add:
1/2 cup to 3/4 cup chocolate chips

The dough may seem "dry" but comes out just fine. Form into 1" balls and place on lightly PAM sprayed cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes, any longer and they may burn. Makes 24 cookies.

ENJOY!!

Godspeed

NSD at Little Yellow Bicycle!!

Make sure you drop by Little Yellow Bicycle on May 5th for some fun and your chance to win some awesome prizes! I know I'm a HUGE fan and can't wait!!

Godspeed

layouts to share!

In both layouts I used sketches by Allison Davis of Sketch Support and Echo Park's Little Girl collection.  Thanks for looking!

Godspeed

A very sweet goodbye...

This past weekend at The ScrapRoom, the gals hosted a crop to send off our latest MODS Theresa & Terry. Since I was stepping down as the board moderator, one of the ladies asked me to prepare a layout, no rules attached and post it when she was ready. It turned into one of the most heartfelt moments in all the time I've been with TSR! The thanks yous, the "remember whens", just poured out and onto the message board from this member and that member! I'll cherish the friendships I've had at TSR with all my heart and I can't begin to tell you how so very special those comments are to me! 

I thank them for such a sweet send off, and although I won't be visiting the message board on a regular basis, ya never know when I'll pop in for a quick hello!

Godspeed

Challenges!

This past week I've been working on some challenges over at The ScrapRoom. This first one is for the Sketch Challenge. While on vacation, we visited a vineyard that also had three building loaded with antiques of all kinds. Here is a small sampling of the cameras. Those October Afternoon wild cards came in very handy!

These next two are for The ScrapRoom's Scraplift Challenge. I couldt decide which one to do so not only did I enter once, but couldn't resist and had to lift Melanie twice! The first one will be framed and included on my scrap area wall with the others.

This one is of our Maggie, my mixed breed best friend that we rescued from the humane society eight years ago. She is a very sweet and loving dog, and so full of energy! She is always on the go and her favorite thing to do, besides shed, is chasing after her frisbee.

Thanks for stopping by. 

Godspeed

Change is good!

Or at least that's what I keep telling myself and I'm almost ready to believe it!

I made the decision to let my moderator position at The ScrapRoom go and get some things in my personal life in order. I've also decided that I need to take my creativity to new heights and dig into other areas that I've ignored for way too long. I'll still scrapbook here and there, but I've had this wild urge to finger paint, yes I said finger paint, for quite some time now.

I've been peeking at Donna Downey's work for a few months and just had to give it a shot when I saw her video. Was I glad I did!! I haven't quite decided what, if anything I want to include in the center of this painting, but like scrapbooking, I can always pick it up and finish it another time. :-)

I've been scrapping random photos of our vacation to San Diego. Remember how I said I was making the switch to 8.5 x 11?  I LOVE IT!! Here are a few I've finished to date:

While there I met up with Edie & her family. We have been "cyber friends" ever since I joined TSR and it was so neat to be able to sit and chat in person and share an evening with her and her wonderful family!

I have more, but I'll share them at another time. Thanks for looking. 

Godspeed

POSIES!!

Oh my goodness!! Today was an absolutely beautiful day and I celebrated it with taking Maggie for a nice long walk, and planting a few posies! They just brighten up the patio and make me smile! :-)

Godspeed

Our Leapling!

Happy Birthday Wishes to my son! You make "8" look marvelous! We couldn't have asked for a more wonderful, caring son! Love you!!

Godspeed

Happy Valentine's Day!

Godspeed

February's TSR REVEAL!!

WOW!! This kit is loaded with great papers and embellies to showcase your photos!

Ya know ya want one, so don't hesitate and order yours TODAY!! Happy Scrapping!!

Godspeed

A new year, a new size!

Not only is my dress size shrinking, but also wanted to change the size of my layouts for photos I take starting in 2012. It however, is not as easy as I thought it would be for either feat! Wanted to reduce the "bulk" of the 12 x 12 three-ring binders and they will also fit better on my shelves.

Here is my first try using a sketch by Allison Davis:

What do ya think? It was a bit of a challenge using smaller photos, but definitely something I will have fun with!

Godspeed

A first for me!!

I'm placing a video on my blog! Playing with my new program today and thought I'd use a slideshow to share my recipe for my A to Z Challenge at The ScrapRoom. Hopefully it'll cooporate!

Apple Crisp

** I have made my recipe to accompany my 17 Day Diet program, but included the normal ingredients in parenthesis 

For filling mix together:

   3 apples peeled and thinly sliced

   1 tsp. cinnamon

   3 packets truvia (2 tbsp. sugar)

For topping mix together:

   2 tbsp whole wheat flour  (white flour)

   1 cup oatmeal (place thru food processor if you wish to have smaller oats as I did, but not necessary)

   1 tsp. vanilla

   3/4 tsp. cinnamon

   1/4 cup agave nectar (1/2 cup brown sugar)

   2 tbsp. Smart Balance (margarine or butter)

If you made your topping with the agave, it will be stickier, but comes out perfectly fine. Spread topping over apples and bake at 325 degrees for 45 minutes or until apples are tender.

If you desire, real whip topping or fat free yogurt is delicious! And the best part, only 150 calories per serving, no fats, no sugars, and no cholesterol! ENJOY!!

Godspeed

Scrappy time!

This past week I've been on a creative roll with the help of the MOD Squad over at The ScrapRoom, Terry & Theresa, and Willow Traders Unfinished Business Challenge. Love sketches by Allison Davis, Got Sketch?, and TSR's Design Team which helped jumpstart my layouts! Between the two message boards, they are coming up with some awesome challenges to get me motivated. Besides, this weather is miserable and scrapping takes "the blues" away!

The first set is just using up a bunch of kit papers and getting those Pumpkin Patch photos scrapped, better late than never, right. ;-)

These next two were sketch challenges from TSR. The "stars" of the layouts are, of course, my two darling grand babies! Can't play favorites, right?! ;-)

And if your ever in the mood to scrap, but not much time, you may want to check out the Freaky Fast Formulas at TSR. And while you're at it, enter to win for a $10 gift certificate to the TSR Store!

And now I'm outta here to finish up the layout laying here in front of me. Have a great day and thanks for looking!

Godspeed

Hello Wednesday!

Woke this morning to some beautiful sunny weather and, although is quite chilly, its a wonderful day in Our Crazy Little World. Nothing special happening today, just the sunshine makes me smile and makes others wonder what I'm up to! It's just a great day to BE ALIVE!

Godspeed

It's SOUP!!

• 
  Had the urge to try something new for dinner and this recipe hits the spot! I have replaced some ingredients to make it a healthier meal without compromising on taste!
• 
  
• Hearty Eggplant Soup
• 1-1/2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 1/2 pound ground turkey
• 1/2 clove garlic, crushed
• 1/2 pound eggplant, diced
• 1/4 cup and 2 tablespoons sliced carrots
• 1/4 cup and 2 tablespoons sliced celery
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can Italian diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 (14 ounce) can fat free, low sodium chicken broth
• 1/4 packet truvia
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup dry macaroni (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat, and cook the onion, turkey, and garlic until turkey is evenly brown. Drain grease, and mix in eggplant, carrots, celery, and tomatoes. Pour in broth. Mix in truvia, and season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook and stir until heated through.
2. If you chose to use macaroni, mix into the soup, and continue cooking 12 minutes, or until macaroni is al dente. Top with Parmesan cheese to serve.

Serves 4 and freezes well! If you try this, let me know what you think, thanks!

Godspeed

FREEBIES!!

I love a good freebie and found plenty today on the www.amazon.com for the Kindle. Hundreds of books, magazines, and games to keep you amused for a very long time. I have a Kindle app. on my phone and it sure comes in handy during lunch at work when I just want to veg out and get away from everyone to just kickback and relax for 30 minutes.

Another site was Crafty Gemini. It is loaded with wonderful tutorials ranging from sewing to cooking and lots of stuff in between complete with YouTube videos! AWESOME!! I have got to start using her "french seam" she shows! No unfinished edges!! Again, AWESOME!! especially for the little ones' clothes. :-)

Godspeed

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

I can't believe its already time to start writing a new date on checks, can you? Where did it go? We just hope and pray that 2012 will be a much better year for our little family and the world in general. Things have looked so gloomy in this fragile economy and its time for things to turn around. Here's to better days ahead! *clink*

Godspeed

Merry Christmas!!

Wishing you and yours a Very Merry Christmas!

PHEW!!

Today I have learned that we shouldn't take anything for granted, for one day it may be ripped from our clutches. Thank you God for giving me the opportunity to start thinking differently!

Godspeed

Almost ready!!

With the exception of a gift for Butch's mother, we are DONE! I think a nice set of pj's to keep her nice and toasty on these cold winter nights will do just fine. She loves her jammies!! I'm thinking pink will suit her perfectly. Yep, the woman loves her pink too!

The next three days of work are bound to test my patience's with the retail population. I just need to remember what my Grandma George use to say, "You can catch more bees with honey than with vinegar." I sure do miss my Grandma and those fabulous gingerbread cookies she made this time of year. So soft and yummy!! No one has ever come close to hers, must have been the extra special love she mixed in with them. :-)

Godspeed

Better days ahead.....

The past few days have been extremely "trying" to say the least. Between the general hustle and bustle of the Holidays and getting everything ready on time, work has been horrendous for me and things just aren't falling into place for Butch either as he tries to make his way back home. If it was just a matter of miscommunication that's one thing, but blatant disregard for the other person is just plain wrong!

What is wrong with today's world?

Why are people so rude, so mean?

Usually I can hold it together and just get past whatever is thrown my way at work, but lately I just want to give the other person "a word of advice" - yes, that is said as politely as I can at this point! - but that would have me lowered to their level and I just feel I'm a better person than that.

Starting this morning when I woke, I plan on turning this day into a new beginning and make the days ahead as special as I can, working or not, home alone or here with Butch! After all, it is the season of giving of yourself, loving thy neighbor, and passing on goodwill, and that's what I need to focus on from this day forward!

Have a pleasant day everyone!

Godspeed

Visit With Santa!

As I recall Ruby has the same expression on her face that her big sister did at 2 years of age sitting on this very Santa's lap! She was actually VERY excited until it was time for the photo and Makayla was in seventh heaven!

Godspeed

Slow down!!

Where is December disappearing to? Oh my! Its already the 11th, I've accomplished loads of stuff already, but I have so much to get done between now and this coming saturday! Yes, saturday is my deadline that I set to have the gifts bought and wrapped, some cookies baked and stored for treats for friends and co-workers while waiting for us to finish the baking a week from today and get things packaged up and ready to share. PLUS!! I have to deliver the gifts for the two children we "adopted " from the Giving Tree at Makayla's school to the office tomorrow by 4pm. EEEEK!! Time is running out and I'm running out of steam. BUT!! I will prevail because a whole bunch of people are expecting me to and I know in my heart of hearts I just can't let them down. :-)

So what am I doing on here? Stalling!! ;-) Outta here!

Godspeed

The ScrapRoom's December Reveal!!

Oh my is it ever YUMMY!!

Now hurry up and go order one before they're all gone!!

Godspeed

Thankful.....

As this Thanksgiving Day 2011 comes to a close, I'd like to reflect on the things that I am most grateful for in my life. With a year of ups and downs that we experienced as a family, our list is long, so I'll just write the condensed version......

I am thankful for:
* My son, our daughter-in-law, and precious grandchildren. We were separated for a spell when they moved to a job in New Mexico and it was THE hardest time I've ever experienced. I am so very thankful that they decided that no matter what it cost, they were going to move back home. From that experience we all learned that nothing is more important than family.

* My daughter for being there and doing her best to help occupy my lonely heart while the kids were away. I love her so much and so proud of her! I know just how lucky I am and would never take her for granted.

* My husband, Butch. It hasn't been easy these past 11 months for us financially and having to admit that this time around we wouldn't be able to make it with the semi, was very hard on him. He has always been a hard worker and to admit defeat was tough. Although we had to take this path, he is much more relaxed and doesn't stress over repair bills that were taking over his life, and that makes for a much happier home life!

All in all, I am very satisfied with my life as it stands now. Although we live paycheck to paycheck, may lose our house at any time, we have our family, health, our hearts are full of love and life, and nothing can replace that in our eyes!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Godspeed

Sharing!

Been a CRAZY couple weeks here and although I haven't done much scrapping, I do have a few layouts I'd like to share.

First up is this one of us with Ruby. She is now getting into helping out in the kitchen, so after I baked cupcakes, Butch & Ruby decorated. She was so cute in my apron!

Next up are some layouts of our pumpkin carvings. I love that we make an annual tradition of getting together not only for the Pumpkin Patch outing, but for the actual carving. Its so much FUN and we make such great memories in the meantime. :-)

And once daylight decides to Bless Us with its presence, I'll have a few more to share. ;-)

Godspeed

Another Goal Achieved!!

Yes, another milestone in my battle to shed the pounds and get to a healthier me was achieved! Its been YEARS since I weighed under 200 lbs. and well, I DID IT!! My weigh-in this morning was 198.4 lbs. and I celebrated with making some protein bars! Funny how things go from sugary cupcakes to healthy protein bars in a few short months!! ;-)

And since I'm tired of the constant cold salads on these cold, damp nights, I've discovered some healthy soup recipes and here's the first one I will try.

TORTILLA SOUP
1 lb of cut up skinless chicken breast
14.5 oz. can of reduced sodium fat free chicken broth
16 oz. can of petite chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon salt - optional
1 teaspoon chili powder

In a large pot, bring chicken, broth, tomatoes, and water to a boil. Reduce heat and cook till chicken is thoroughly cooked, about 6 to 8 minutes. Add salt and chili powder to taste, adding more chili powder if desired.

Divide soup into four bowls and garnish with:
1 jalapeno pepper, cut into rings
12 baked tortilla chips
1/2 cup shredded low-fat Monteray Jack cheese
2 green onions thinly sliced
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
3 tablespoon. low-fat sour cream
1 lime, cut into 4 wedges

Serves 4

soup = 165 calories per serving

garnishes = 95 calories per serving

YUMMY!!

Godspeed

halfway point!

I did it!! As of today I have lost 25lbs and haven't felt this good about ME for a very long time! This diet experience has taught me that when I put my mind into something, I can accomplish my goals and go beyond. Some people say that I'm bragging, but dammit, I own the bragging rights this time!!

As of today.....

*I have lost 25 lbs. and the bounce in my step has returned!
*I eat only fresh fruits and vegetables.
*Nothing I eat comes prepackaged, freeze dried, or in the mail.
*I have learned to cook foods in a totally different way.
*I'm actually checking out gyms to see which would be a good fit for me and not cost an arm and a leg to join!
*and the most exciting thing about today ....... I went digging deep into my dresser and found three pairs of jeans that I haven't fit into for years and guess what? THEY FIT!! NO muffin top, NO laying on the bed to zip them, and NO marks on my waist because they were so tight and digging in!!

HaPpY DaNcE!!!!!!!

And if you REALLY need a visual, think of my weight loss as 100 STICKS OF BUTTER!!!! EEEWWWWW!! GROSS!!

Godspeed

love sketches!

During our crop last weekend, I presented a sketch challenge for the ladies using a sketch from October Pagemaps. It was nice and simple and a great way to use up those small pieces we all have lying around that need to be used up. Here's the sketch and my sample:

Thanks for looking!

Godspeed

lots of layouts!

This past weekend we had an online crop at The ScrapRoom and I managed to get loads done with all the challenges that our MOD Squad presented! It was such a fun way to spend the evening and chat it up with the ladies. Here are the creations that I was able to get done and put a tiny dent in my pile of photos.

Thanks for stopping by!

Godspeed

inked

Capturing these photos was a treat for me since Ruby doesn't sit still long enough at her age, but for some reason she was more than happy to oblige this particular day! Decided to use the Bella Blvd. Finally Fall collection because those stripes we just the right touch to highlight her beautiful creation!

And on my last visit to Craft Warehouse in Vancouver, I picked up the Tim Holtz Alterations Sizzix die with a 40% off coupon and made those darling flowers. Sure beats the old manual score and fold method. ;-)

Godspeed

Before I proceed.....

.... with the October kits, I think I'll share my September layouts with the TSR kits. I got so wrapped up in my new healthy eating that I completely forgot! Without further ado.....

That was definitely a FUN kit to work with!! Now I'm ready for the October kits. :-)

Godspeed

October TSR Kits!!

This is a gorgeous selection of papers for those Fall activities! We'll be heading off to the Pumpkin Patch next weekend, so these papers will definitely come in handy. Not to mention the actual pumpkin carving and Halloween at the end of the month!! I have visions of great layouts in my head!!

BELLA BLVD. FINALLY FALL:

1 sheet At The Patch (2-sided)

1 sheet Bliss (2-sided)

1 sheet You're A Hoot (2-sided)

2 sheets Kraft Cardstock

1 sheet Finally Fall Cute Cuts (2-sided)

1/2 sheet Finally Fall Miniature Stickers (varies)

SIMPLE STORIES HAPPY DAYS:

1 sheet Birthday Memories (2-sided)

1 sheet Celebrate (2-sided)

1 sheet Make A Wish (2-sided)

2 sheets Suede Brown Dark Cardstock

(1) 12x12 Happy Day Fundamentals Cardstock Stickers

FANCY PANTS SUMMER'S END:

1 sheet Crisp (2-sided)

1 sheet Abundance (2-sided)

1 sheet Harvest (2-sided)

2 sheets Geyser Cardstock

(1) sheet Summer's End Chipboard Banners (varies)

approx. 1 yard Brown/White Striped Baker's Twine

STUDIO CALICO MEMOIR:

1 sheet Linen (2-sided)

1 sheet Book Jacket (2-sided)

1 sheet Flower Bed (2-sided)

2 sheets White Cardstock

1/3 pkg. Kraft Butterfly Stickers

(10) Memoir Chipboard Buttons

(5) Wood Veneer Houses

You can have one too! Just go to The ScrapRoom and order yours today. This kit is gonna be so much FUN!!

Godspeed

Phrase three!!

WOW! it's been a whole phase since I posted and it went by so quickly! Kinda getting use to this "lighter me" and liking how it feels. :-) 

I lost another 6 pounds these past 17 days and celebrated tonight with a glass of red wine with my dinner. I was so excited to see that red wine is "legal" in this phase, so bought us a nice bottle of  14 Hands Merlot from a local vineyard in Paterson, WA, and savored every drop in my glass. A bit tipsy by the end of that 5 oz. glass, whoa!! Guess that's what happens when its been nothing but lots of fresh veggies, fruits, and proteins going into my system for the past 34 days. ;-)

Godspeed

Phase Two!

I made it thru the first phase of the 17 Day Diet, having lost a total of 14 lbs. in 17 days! I'm pretty happy with myself and ready to conquer the next phase starting today. I have some new recipes I get to try and got busy at it today!

I made some delicious power cookies and WOW!! were the ingredients ever costly! How come things that are so good for you cost a fortune?? No wonder the obesity problem in this world, a box of macaroni and cheese is only 50 cents! There's just something wrong about all that.......

I also need to get up and move around more. The weather here has turned to nasty cold and wet, so I bought a ZUMBA! game for the Wii. We have such fun with the Just Dance For Kids so I thought why not, give it a try. Wish me luck!!

Godspeed