Scrapper in New York

My Mojo is back....

2012-01-23T08:27:00.000-08:00

I have really enjoyed these past few days just taking out a little ME time to create. Today I submitted one of my layouts so wish me well. Hopefully it gets picked up, if not it was so much fun to create. Here are a few of my layouts, thanks for stopping by.

OLW {One Little Word}

2012-01-15T20:27:00.000-08:00

{Strong} that is the word I have chosen this year. I discovered a Faith Based Blog Adore Him Creations: One Little Word through faith blog hoppers a group on Facebook. One of the members named Diane Marra is the creator of the Adore Him Creations blog. I was so excited because not only am I still able to create, but I am encouraged to continue my journey in Christ. I love that we have to follow up with a worksheet. In other words I am accountable. I want to share why I have chosen Strong.
I have to say that 2011 was a bit challenging, but in October our family decided we would begin our journey with the Lord. Oh and let me tell you there are some that may not be happy, but what is my life without God. I know it's going to be a struggle, there are going to be obstacles but I know I need to be strong. Some will judge, and that's alright cause God has my back. Dt: 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Definition of Strong- Having the power to move heavy weights or perform other physically demanding tasks.
When I see this I think who more powerful than God, no one He can remove the heavy weights and this could be what lays heavily in your heart, your mind. I thank you for reading, and being part of the people who continue to encourage me.

Wow me MIA!!!

2011-12-31T10:18:00.000-08:00

Well I know it's been awhile, but the Holiday season always takes a toll on me. For some this is probably the happiest season, for me it's been like the Holiday Blues. I don't know if it's the season, the weather, or more than likely is memories I would rather forget. So today I decided to brave the blogging world and give you a year in review both personal and crafty wise. As many of us scrapbookers do I started this year with a word for the year that word was GROW. Can I say that I thought at first it would be scrappy wise, but I have grown. What do I mean by this, well not in inches, but just at look at my life a little differently. It was not an easy year at times, but I was able to take action in a more positive way. I seeked council, I asked for help physically and emotionally, but most of all spiritually. I remembered that prayer always helps, I decided to ask God yes God to help me with the issues I was having with Chris. Can I say how that prayer continues to be answered in so many ways, step by step. My son Chris has an awesome MSC(Medicaid Service Coordinator) Jazmene. She has helped us in so many ways, from respite programs, to now we have a home attendant on the weekends to help with Chris. This is a blessing, the funny thing is she doesn't feel she does enough, Girl let me tell you , she has given me peace of mind. There were times when I knew I was losing it, and I would call her and cry, scream, but yet she listened and I think at times cried with me. So for this I am thankful that God put her in our path.
In prayer I also found my way back to church, and because of that change my son has been so much better, he is calmer on the weekends especially when he is at church it's like a peace comes over him.
This year has been difficult, and yet I am blessed. What you may not know is that my husband had an accident on the job, this has not been easy. It's been about 4 mos, of him being home still trying to recover from his surgery. It's a long process, but yet I'm blessed because he is still here.
Oh and did I mention somewhere that I'm going to be a Grandma, I know I didn't lol it still sounds weird, but you see how I have been blessed. I am so looking forward to May and holding my first grandchild. I will really be scrapping then!!! lol

Scrappy wise I was able to be part of the She Art Classes, I really enjoyed being creative using paint and really looking within my soul. Christy Tomlinson is an amazing teacher if you have never dabbled in her art classes you really have to just give it a try. You will be amazed at what you create. It's truly inspiring. Girl it's all about you!!!
I have not recently created but, I do have a lot of scrappy new stuff to play with. I already have a New Years Day planned with my sister in law to just create. Looking forward to digging my hands once again. With that said here are some of my favorite projects this year.

Being Thankful...

2011-11-25T04:28:00.000-08:00

I am thankful to have these hands. Yes you have read correctly, let me share why. You see God has blessed these hands. These hands went from holding my mothers hand to being a mother and nurturing my own children. These hands were held by a grandfather who adored his granddaughter and taught her love. These hands were burned by a father who taught her fear, but these hands learned that abuse was not passed on. With these hands I took and oath to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish; from this day forward until death do us part. These hands learned to caress, to show love, to create, to cook, but more importantly these hands have learned to lift up high and praise the Lord in the Good times and in the bad times. Many times as a child these hands covered my face in fear, these hands held my tears then, and hold them now. These hands wipe away the tears, but OMG when God is in the midst those tears are somehow turned into joy. Because even at my lowest these hands have been able to seek God. So I am thankful for what God has allowed my hands to do. thanks for stopping by....

My Paper Treehouse is having a Being Thankful Faith Blog hop, you can follow along and be blessed by all the testimonies the ladies have shared.

Winner of Whom Shall I Fear Blog hop...Blessed layout

2011-11-02T15:44:00.000-07:00

First I want to thank all of you for your wonderful comments. As I read them I was not only blessed, but also encouraged. It's awesome to be part of a group of sisters who love God, who are not afraid of what people will say. Who would have known 6 yrs ago when I began scrapbooking that my passion for this art would 5 yrs later lead me to a woman who had a passion for God, who was not afraid to freely speak what the Lord had in her heart. I know being part of her team for a brief moment that there were some obstacles that I will call stumbling blocks, and yet she persevered. She continued her work, because it was a calling. I'm sure there were times where she must have felt should I continue, can I say I am so glad she did. Let me share why? One year ago I was at one my lowest moments when I found a call for a Design Team call, this was different it was not only about promoting her store then, but it was more about sharing the love of God. When I say I was at my lowest it had been 5 yrs that I had stopped serving the Lord and I felt as though my whole world was coming down on me and for a brief moment I thought of yes ending it all. Suddenly I remembered God, and I exclaimed loudly with heart wrenching tears for God's forgiveness. That weekend I reconciled my life to the Lord once again, and the road has not been easy. I was going on and off to church yet God always found a way to speak to me. How? well how funny that Nana Campana continued fiercely with her Blog Hops the reason why was to encourage, bring the lost souls to God through His word. I had stopped being part of the Blog Hop, but I always read of God's love through the Hops. When I found myself recently in one of those heart wrenching moments I got the notice of the Whom Shall I Fear Blog hop, and I thought Lord I know you are speaking to me. I need not be afraid, I have you back in my heart, my life and even better my family is slowly a part of that vision you once promised me. How can I be afraid, yes I had little faith yes I had stumbling blocks, and yet the Lord was able to pick me after each fall. I am slowly building my house on the Rock, but I know that this house will not fall. I thank you Nana for continuing your Calling, your courage, your faith has blessed me in so many ways. For me it's not easy to say I love someone, but I feel this for you not because of your works but because I am truly blessed to have you in my life. thank you all for stopping by.

Ephesians 4:11-15

¹¹ So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, ¹² to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up ¹³ until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

¹⁴ Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. ¹⁵ Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.

Here's a layout to share with you all, my beautiful daughters and I.

The winner for GC from Scrapbook.com is

Patsy

please send me your email info.

Whom Shall I Fear Blog Hop

2011-10-27T20:59:00.000-07:00

I am truly excited to be part of the My Paper Treehouse Whom Shall I Fear Blog Hop. This month we are focusing on the theme of Fear and we pray you find hope in the midst of any fear you may be experiencing. Join us as we showcase the talent the Lord has given us through projects that reflect what we know about God. The hop begins over at www.mypapertreehouse.blogspot.com, so if you just happened to find this blog, make sure to go on over there first. If you came from (Zeni's) blog, you are in the right place! Know that we are praying for you!

Before we can ask the question: "Whom shall I fear?", we must first define the word FEAR. According to Dictionary.com, Fear is "a distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, pain, etc. " It is interesting, though, that the original Webster's Dictionary (1828) defines fear as the following: 1. To feel a painful apprehension of some impending evil; to be afraid of; to consider or expect with emotions of alarm or solicitude. We fear the approach of an enemy or of a storm. We have reason to fear the punishment of our sins. When you contrast the end of the definition provided, you can tell that the reasons behind our fears have changed.

With that change has come great compromise and a HUGE loss of the reality of the greatest thing we should fear... GOD!In both definitions it is clear that fear comes from an expectancy of danger, pain, or evil. All of the threats that we face on earth can potentially take our physical lives away, but they have absolutely no power over what will happen with our souls. Interestingly enough, more people are afraid of speaking in public than they are of dying... and the truth is that to die apart from Christ would bring destruction to both body and soul.

You see, we fear losing our jobs, our children, our homes... We fear the dark, or changes that come our way... We fear thieves, and guns, and accidents; yet we refuse to fear the Lord. The Bible says that the beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). I always wondered why this was true, until I came across the following verse: "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell." (Matthew 10:28) God is the ONLY ONE who can destroy both your body and your soul! What a scary thought!

In both definitions it is clear that fear comes from an expectancy of danger, pain, or evil. All of the threats that we face on earth can potentially take our physical lives away, but they have absolutely no power over what will happen with our souls. Interestingly enough, more people are afraid of speaking in public than they are of dying... and the truth is that to die apart from Christ would bring destruction to both body and soul.

How is it that we do not FEAR this reality?

To be honest I myself didn't Fear this reality, oh I was very much aware of it though. I knew in the back of my mind I needed to find the road back to Christ, but it was not easy there was always something holding me back. Yes I can say that part of it was me, but my Pastor's wife Sonia always says that the enemy knows that if you come back he will have no control over you. Two weeks ago our entire household of 5 was getting ready for church when 5 minutes before we are ready to walk out I begin to get stomach pains, I'm like no way I have to go to church it's like a need. No one in the house was fighting or making excuses not to go right then I decided who is more powerful, why am I afraid? Then I remembered Psalm 27:1 " The LORD is my light and my salvation whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life of whom shall I be afraid? " My God is in control of my life and my family's life, we have to go back to Exodus and remember when Moses was talking to his people in Chapter 14:13 "Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. ¹⁴ The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.”

You see it's not easy standing firm because in life there are a lot of obstacles, but we need to remember the Fear of the Lord in both definitions, and ask yourself do I want to die without Christ in my life the answer is NO. Am I fearful of God? my answer is I respect that He is a powerful God, should I be afraid of what He can do. NO I am fearful of what my life would be without God. It is important that our relationship with God, through His son Jesus Christ, be solid. So that in the end we will have eternal life. So I will leave you with an excerpt of Exodus 14:13 "Do Not Be Afraid, Stand Firm"

For your next stop you have to hop on over to Tammy's Blog

Don't forget to leave a comment, I have $15 Gift Certificate for one blessed member. I will announce winner on Tuesday.

Stress Releaser..

2011-10-14T16:34:00.000-07:00

So many things went on this past week, it was one of those heartwrenching weeks. I know that everything in the end will be alright. I was able to create a little it's my stress releaser. Here are some of the layouts I created for Tallyscrapper's October kit
Thanks for stopping by.. also stop by tomorrow and join me in My Paper Treehouse Blog Hop...

Pencil lines Sketch 253

2011-10-13T17:35:00.000-07:00

Yes I'm late to submit, but here's my take on the sketch. I really loved the idea of the doily's who knew that cake doily's would really be so popular in the scrapbooking world. I'm sure that when I told my husband the other day I needed to go to Michaels and pick up something he never thought it was for cakes. LOL thanks for stopping by.

Survivor Challenge Week 3

2011-10-09T06:24:00.000-07:00

I really loved this weeks Survivor challenge over at Tallyscrapper, it was inspired by an Apple ad. We had to use the title "Think Different" one of Steve Jobs motto's. I created a canvas and used lots of paint, misting, and some creative stamping. here's the ad:

and here's my take on it:

thanks for stopping by...

Faith Banner....

2011-10-05T21:02:00.000-07:00

Yes I am thinking Christmas already, though really thinking about it the banner could be used for Easter too. I used Basic Grey's Eskimo kisses line along with Clear Scraps Banner. I truly love it when a project comes together. I want to say thanks to friend Kattya, for inspiring and for motivating me to create and put ideas together. So here it is hope you like it!! Thanks for stopping by....

Week 2 Survivor layout over @ Tallyscrapper

2011-10-04T17:11:00.000-07:00

So this weeks challenge was inspired by a Manufacturer October Afternoon. Our challenge was to be inspired by one of the lines at October Afternoon. We had to use a TITLE, with no variations, on our layout after one of their lines. Oh and how the possibilities were endless. I had the perfect photo for the Boarding Pass line. My husband had taken this photo of me and my girls on the plane, can you say perfect!!!!

On another note, I recently decided not only to start submitting to magazines but to also get my feet wet again and be part of a Design Team. I think my hiatus is over and to be honest I need to focus more on my me time. Well the good news is that I did make the Tallyscrapper Design Team and I love the gals there. I met at least 30 or more of the ladies at a weekend Rally and had the best of time.
Also wanted to mention I used a sketch from Creative Scrappers to create my Survivor layout

Can't wait to work on October's kit check it out Here

Survivor Layout for Tallyscrapper...

2011-09-28T08:15:00.000-07:00

So here it is the challenge was inspired Kelly Purkey's Map Layout my first thought was OH NO!!! I didn't even know where to begin, but I did it and I like it. Would not do this again though lol. thanks for stopping by... MUAH

creating cards...

2011-09-26T09:13:00.000-07:00

I never thought I would enjoy creating cards. I love to alter and create pages from 12x12 to 8 1/2 by 11 but cards have always been challenging. Then it occurred to me that I have to stop looking at the size and create as though it was a layout. Now I really use my scraps on cards can I say I'm loving it!!!! Here are just a few that I created recently. Thanks for stopping by....

a little something I created....

2011-09-22T07:42:00.000-07:00

finally using my stash from Websters Pages warehouse sale. I love this paper with the teacups so I decided to stickle it and do my journaling coming out of the teacups. thanks for stopping by..

Baby is cold outside...

2011-09-16T06:17:00.000-07:00

Wow it's the middle of September and can I say I was not too happy waking up to cold weather. It is about 56 outside and a little too windy for me. The good news is that I can wear my UGGS again without looking too ridiculous. LOL. So I know it's been awhile since I've blogged. I have been creating just not posting. I have actually decided to submit my work to magazines and maybe just maybe will get one published. I also went out and did something else for myself I got my haircut shorter than usual. I took about 5 inches off my hair and I absolutely love it. I took a self portrait but I'm not very good at that I will post it, but when my daughter gets home I will have her take a full view photo of my hair. thanks for stopping by MUAH!

Go Mojo, Go Mojo lol...

2011-08-18T09:43:00.000-07:00

I am so loving being able to create again. It's like my fingers are doing all the walking. Love this line by Lily Bee Design had to add to stickles of course to give it that bling bling I felt was missing!!! thanks for looking...MUAH

Mojo Madness....

2011-08-16T18:39:00.000-07:00

I love this Echo Park pattern paper it is so Elisa girly girl. The photo is of Elisa on her stepping up ceremony. She is such a little poser. Thanks for looking.

lost my mojo....

2011-08-15T18:32:00.000-07:00

but thanks to Creative Scrappers 166 sketch I was able to find some scrappy mojo back!!! I am now working on another layout today!!! I want to try to create a layout a day for the next 2 weeks. So here is crossing my fingers. lol thanks for looking

finally it is finished!!!

2011-08-05T07:54:00.000-07:00

I have been working on this album for about a month and finally sat down and finished it!!! It makes me want just a little snow right now!!! LOL

SEW FUN!!!!

2011-07-22T10:15:00.000-07:00

I have to say that it was amazing to start sewing again, no not on layouts but this time I actually used the sewing machine to make an apron. I saw this pattern online, and new I had to have it!!! Honestly I have had it for about 3 mos now, I decided to pick it up, cut it up and stitch it up!!! love how it turned out!!!! Here is Emily showing off my retro apron. She looks so cute in it, now if only she could cook me something that would be even more wonderful lol. thanks for looking.
Products used:
Stamping Up: fabric {pocket & neckline}
Basic Grey: Buttons

Surprise Elisa!!!

2011-07-08T10:33:00.000-07:00

It all began in April my husband and I started planning our family vacation. As we are making our final decisions we decided not to tell Elisa that we were going to as she says it "Were dreams come true" LOL. So the scheming began only a few of our family and close friends knew we were going to Florida. What would we tell Elisa, this is how it began May 30th she is sitting by the laptop and yells woo hoo only 26 more days of school and then we are going to Florida, at first I was taken aback cause I knew I didn't tell her. Our conversation MOM: who told you we were going to Florida? Elisa: you did! MOM: When? Elisa: Do you remember when there was a commercial I asked you if we can go to Disney where dreams come true You said maybe we can go. MOM: right I said maybe I didn't say we were going I'm sorry we can't go it's just too expensive. Elisa: UMPH!!! then she says fine can we afford Pennsylvania? MOM: LOL yes we can afford Pennsylvania. So everyone who knew would tell her all the great things she would see in Pennsylvania on the day we were leaving I told her we have to take a plane to Pennsylvania! She says oh good cause I get car sick!!! LOL
On the plane the flight attendant made a special announcement just for Elisa at first she was confused but once she understood she yelled YES! It is so much fun seeing Disney through Elisa's eyes. Thanks for reading!!!

My baby is growing up

2011-06-23T05:04:00.000-07:00

here she is getting her hair set for curls. Can you believe that she asked for curls. She was not a happy camper though when she realized 1. they were heavy on her head 2. they were pinned tight and 3. she needed to into the dryer after 5 minutes under she wanted it out. I kept saying just a few more minutes. LOL those were the longest 30 minutes of her little life, but in the end she had her beautiful curls. Here she is posing as usual. She was a little princess. Her ceremony was great she just loves the stage. She is so happy to be going to first grade in September. When I picked up her report card she tells me please, please tell me it's good. I tell her it was great as usual. I had a wonderful day.

I know it's been awhile since I posted, where have I been? It seems like I've been on a rollercoaster ride. I didn't realize just how busy June was going to be. Graduations, BBQ's and now getting ready to pack for my son who is going away for 2 weeks. Just seems like I have been running errands all month. I did start working on an acrylic album, but have not had time to sit and finish it. Hopefully will get to it soon. Thanks for stopping by.. Muah

What a Proud day...

2011-06-02T13:10:00.000-07:00

it is really an honor to see your child graduate from college. To know that the sweat and tears of the last 4 yrs has become in accomplishment, not only for her but also for us as parents. I can say that when the processional began and the students started to march onto the field tears of joy filled my eyes. I was there to celebrate the ending of her scholastic journey thus far, but also there to celebrate the beginnings of what is to come. Iliana is the first grandchild to graduate from college in both our families and we are all so proud of her.

wow

2011-05-26T07:31:00.000-07:00

I hadn't realize that it had been almost 2 weeks since I last posted. Well I have been pretty busy at home, I had a scrappy day with my friends at home. On that same day if you can believe I dislocated my shoulder can you say ouch!!! Yes I am still feeling the pain on that one. I am on meds for pain, but they put me to sleep so I really have only taken them twice and Motrin has been a lifesaver in the meantime. I have more SheArt Work done just have to post those. I just started the She has 3 hearts workshop, can wait to dig into that. In the meantime I created a layout finally of when I went to Madam Tussauds and took a photo with Lucy's wax look alike. I also went to the scrapbook Expo this past Saturday and purchased lots of goodies. My favorite were the ClearScraps acrylic albums and the mixables were on sale. Can you say Wahoo. Well here's my layout using the Cricut Imagine Kates Kitchen oh and these pattern papers from Cricut's Cartridge are totally fab colors. love these. Thanks for looking.

She Seeks Refuge

2011-05-10T13:39:00.000-07:00

I decided to do my next SheArt Workshop on me, I used week 2 with a twist. A single photo of me, not a girl I cut out but me. I am seeking refuge.
The definition to Refuge: A condition of being safe or sheltered from pursuit, danger, or trouble.
I know that the only place I can feel safe and not so much safe but more like peace is when I can make it to Church. It's there where I feel safe, like I can be me cause God already knows what I'm going through I mean He can see the hurt, the emotions and the struggles of my heart and yet when I'm there I am comforted by His words. ^{Psalm 1} Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge. Here's my project this week, as always thanks to Christy Tomlinson for creating this wonderful workshop.

At a loss for words...

2011-05-06T05:09:00.000-07:00

I don't even know where to begin. I will begin with some of the emotions I'm feeling right now. Guilt, hopelessness, overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally exhausted, mentally exhausted. I have always said the mind can be your worst enemy. The thoughts can literally take over your entire body. I know nothing is making sense, but that is just how I feel. I can't take the pressure, I am shaking as I write this cause I know what I have been thinking. It's selfish really for me to think that if I end it everything will be alright afterwards. I have had a rough week even more this morning, I need help and I can't really ask for it. Why because my son is my responsibility, I don't see any hope in the near future still waiting for a residential but in the meantime I feel like a little piece of me is dying and wants to die. I cry as write this cause it's not easy to admit. I wish it was easy for me to commit myself into a hospital, but then what of my other kids my husband. Oh and if your wondering where is my husband in all this. He's here and he really is wonderful, but he really doesn't know how I feel. I'm afraid that if I tell him he will worry more, he has health issues and I don't want to stress him out. He tells me he worries about me, and I lie and tell him I'm okay, but I'm not. How can I feel this way? My mornings are probably the worst of my days, the stress of getting Chris ready trying to ignore the things he does or says. I even have Elisa my six yr old telling me Mom just ignore it. She's six yrs old, she shouldn't have to tell me what to do. She is such a bright little girl I always felt that having her later in age that she was a gift of God. When I chose her name I looked for the meaning and this is what I found is it's a form of Elizabeth a Hebrew name and Consecrated by God. What a wonderful blessing, how can I then feel this way even right now. Lord Jesus help me, and to my friends pray for me that I am able to mentally heal, it's not easy. Please don't judge my sharing what I'm feeling here, I just need to vent, to try to clear my mind. Write it down, so that who knows maybe just maybe in the next few months I can read this and say WOW God you brought healing and good friends my way. Thanks for reading

I wonder will I ever...

2011-04-26T07:36:00.000-07:00

create scrapbook layouts again. OMG I love, love, love working with paint and canvas. Christy Tomlinson's SheArt Workshop is just the best. I have created a total of four canvases and that was only taking week 1. I better start week 2, but I have decided that today I will play with pattern papers and photos. LOL I really can't give it up. Here are two of my most recent SheArt girls. oh and by the way my niece helped in creating the red haired girl. Vanessa my niece is only 9 but she has an eye for fashion and drawing can't wait to see what lies in her artistic future.

Oh I love her wings...

2011-04-22T21:07:00.001-07:00

I just love my second SheArt project. I knew I found one of the sentences given in the workshop and just knew my girl had to have wings. I added so much texture to this canvas it was so much fun working with modeling paste, crackle paint, and so much more. Hope you like her as much as I do.

So Happy

2011-04-20T19:27:00.000-07:00

The She Art Workshop

I have been so stressed that I honestly forgot that I had signed and paid for Christy Tomlinson's She Art Workshop. Can I say I am so happy I remembered this workshop, I really needed this especially today. If you haven't had time to or maybe were a little skeptical about the class don't be. I want to thank Leah Crowe for introducing me to this workshop. here is my interpretation of my project: I loved the outcome, next time I will use mod podge matte instead of luster, but I still love it!

Completing an unfinished project

2011-04-19T19:51:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure I'm not the only scrapper that started a layout months ago and loss your mojo in the middle of the project. Well here it is I finally finished my joy layout that I began in December. I figured since I wanted to challenge myself this week, why not finish something I started. LOL Here it is. thanks for stopping by maybe tomorrow a full on project!!

Challenging myself...

2011-04-18T18:15:00.000-07:00

to create everyday this week. I remember when I first starting scrapping it was to have some quality time to myself, then I realized it was such a stress releaser for me. Now I need that time away even if only an hour or two. So here's a layout I created just for fun. thanks for stopping by.

So Thankful

2011-04-15T17:24:00.001-07:00

today was really a good day. I found a great respite program for my son Chris. I really loved the staff and the area. Chris will be spending a weekend in May.
Oh and here are some of my recent projects really had fun working on these. thanks for looking

We are all in this together.... UNITY!!!

2011-03-28T11:16:00.000-07:00

First I want to say thank you for hopping with us over at My Paper Treehouse.
It is always wonderful to see how God truly works. My Paper Treehouse has announced it's winners!!

Unity.... that is what Sunday's message was about in Church. It was so nice to hear Michelle give the word, to see how she has grown in the Lord, but also in her faith. WOW! She shared about God's promises to us as individuals and how He is the one you can really count on not to go back on His promise. Now when she touched upon UNITY I had one of those Oprah a ha moments. She said "God wants unity, we need to finish this race together" if you have a disagreement with your brother or sister you need to resolve those issues because at the end of this journey there are greater treasures for us in heaven. I know I am not perfect I know that I have to let issues go and leave them at God's feet. It's the only way I am going to Grow, because in the end I want what God to say to me "His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!' Matthew 25:23. I am going to leave you with this video I found

Here's a layout I created for Survivor challenge over at Tallyscrapper

Heartache No One Sees Blog Hop

2011-03-25T02:37:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Heartache No One Sees Faith Blog Hop. If you are hopping with us you should have come from (Bonnie's blog). if you just happened to find this post, please go to www.mypapertreehouse.com so that you can start the hop from the very beginning. :) Now to the hop:

Women have a very unique way of being strong, yet gentle. through this process we find ourselves many times hiding heartaches that truly affect us, but somehow we cannot bring ourselves to talk about. Sometimes it is because of "what would people say" or because we want to keep a certain image, or even because we are trying to keep our loved ones from becoming worried: we hold on to the heartache and even come to believe that "this is as good as it will ever get". Today we are out in the internet laying our hearts bare before the world. We have come to understand that God IS who He says He is and indeed He will complete the work He has begun, and so we lay our heartache before Him in hopes that He will meet us here. As you go through this hop, take the time to think about your own hidden heartache, and if any of our blogs motivate you to speak about it, leave us a comment or even send us an email. As sisters we should remain together and encourage each other to continue the walk towards His arms: the only place we will find rest and comfort.

Here's how the hop works:

Like last time we have some GRAND Prizes to share with you, plus most of the blog owners are willing to share some RAK with you. In order to qualify for the GRAND Prizes you ought to leave a comment under this thread and become a follower of this blog (if you are not one yet). We are asking that you would also become a follower of paper Tree House Studio on Facebook so that you can stay updated with our challenges and contests. In order to qualify for the RAKS i ask that you would also become a follower of those blogs and leave them a comment with your thoughts about the project they might have created or the story they were willing to share (if any). It can be very humbling to share our hearts with the world, yet the Bible says that our troubles come so that we can console another going through the same thing. My prayer is that the Lord would use this for His Glory as He heals all of our hearts.

Now for the GRAND Prizes:

Paper Tree House Studio:
Scrapbook News and Review Magazine: One Year Subscription
Bella Blvd.: $45 retail value worth of their yummy product
Echo Park: Love Line
Scrapbooks & Stuff: Cricut Your Story
Punky Sprouts:
The Paper Blossom Shop: $25 gift certificate to their shop.

Remember that in order to be considered a winner, you should leave a comment here and become a follower. :) It is that simple.

As you hop through the blogs you will see some very open lives, and others that are not as much. We are all being molded everyday more into His liking. Know that I have been praying for each of the participants, and as you begin to open your heart, I will be praying for you as well. It is my desire that the Lord would begin to build a community of bold women that would be willing to show their weaknesses so that in turn He can be their strength. Maybe next month we can hop through your blog as well.. This will happen every month on the very last weekend of the month, so please plan to be here learning about Him and about His love for YOU and His commitment to make you His!

Here is my story:

My journey I can tell you it has not been easy, I have recently come to the realization that as much as I joke about needing a happy pill I really do need to seek some medical counseling. You see I have always been made to believe that if I serve God it was wrong to be depressed. I have to say that mentality has gotten me right where I am today doubting Gods love and strength. As a believer I shouldn't be feeling down or right now strong enough. Yes I am stronger and seek God daily, but it's just much more it's what is happening right now with life. Then it hit me, wait a minute yes God is our healer, but sometimes we need more because God is the one who gave us life for us to breathe, He gave us the knowledge to know that we need doctors too. Who can help to heal the physical. I need to stop fighting and know that God is in control of my life, and that He is guiding me through this next step. So that I can begin to heal mentally, thank you Lord for allowing me to be Free.

I chose to create a layout using the lyrics from Casting Crowns Set me Free.

Thanks for participating with us... Now hop on over to Kari's Blog

Weight loss journey...

2011-03-10T07:01:00.000-08:00

So it's been 4 months since I began this journey. At first I didn't think I could do it but week by week I noticed my clothes fitting a little loose. The scale is also showing me the weight loss, but what shocked me the most was the inches that began to shed. I went from a size 13/14 to a 7/8 in pants, my tops used to be x-large and now I fit into a medium comfortably. I have lost a total of 5 1/2 inches on my waist alone, hips 3 inches, thighs 3 1/2 inches my arms which is my biggest pet peeve of my body a total of 2 inches. It's just so exciting to actually follow through and see the results. I will post before and after photos. Thanks for reading along. Oh and did I mention I changed my hair color!!! Love it!

Big News!!! Redemption Island and Winner for Blog hop

2011-03-02T06:46:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share some exciting news with you all. It all started back in late January, Joseph (pictured above) called me and said he wanted to speak with my husband and I. My first thought was oh no, so I said yes come over my daughter Iliana (his girlfriend) was working that day. It was about 2pm on a Sunday when he arrived, he began by saying that he was here because he wanted us to know more about him and I thought not good, but then he said I want to say that I love Iliana with all my heart (can you see the tears flowing down my face) I mean really what mother does not want to hear that. He continued by saying I am a bit old fashion and my parents taught me that if I am going to do things I have to do them right. Ok! He then proceeds to tell us that though Iliana is graduating from college in June, she has spoken to him and wants to continue school to be a registered nurse he told her and I quote "Go for it, and I will help you pay for it somehow" I'm like OMG she is graduating with a Bacholers in Recreational Therapy and she wants more and he wants to help. I was surprised not only that she shared that with him but that he wants to help. My husband then told him that if that is what Iliana wants we will sit down and work it out. Then he says another reason I'm here is because I want to go to Ecuador in February on vacation and I am asking permission to take Iliana with me. We were both shocked, but we agreed she was going to stay with his parents. Now comes the big news while in Ecuador I would love to propose to your daughter who I love and I can truly see sharing the rest of my life with her. I cried, cried, cried I couldn't talk he must have thought OH NO!!! but they were tears of joy. I mean tell me when was the last time in this society that we live in now a young man of 22 yrs of age ask the parents permission for hand in marriage. Not many!!! I was a little scared at what my husbands reaction would be, but then he got up walked up to Joseph and said I respect you for coming here and doing this right. Yes you have our permission, I cried some more. He then showed us the ring it's beautiful, even my daughter Emily was crying. Well now of course I had to keep it a secret until he proposed, she called me on from Ecuador on Sunday and crying and saying mom guess what Joseph proposed and I said yes. I am so very happy for her and we are so happy to welcome Joseph into our family. Now I am technically a mother of a bride to be!!! OMG I feel old. LOL

Also I over at TallyScrapper playing Survivor and well this week I was sent to Redemption Island here is the layout I created

Now for the winner of the blog hop! I used Random Number generator

True Random Number Generator Min: Max: Result: 36

Marley said...
Hello Dolores, Im your new follower! This bloghop is so much fun, really nice to see all the beautiful projects! I started card making 2 years ago but now Im starting to make lay outs.. I have to say its so much fun to scrap photo's! Loving it.. I hope my lay outs will look as good as yours one day! Thanks for a chance to win and for this fun bloghop!.. HUgs Marley

Thank You! Blog Hop is Over...

2011-03-01T17:04:00.000-08:00

to all hopped along with us over at My Paper Treehouse. It was such an amazing experience to see how many shared our love for God. Stay tuned to the My Paper Treehouse for not only the winners tomorrow, but also for our next blog hop. I will make an announcement on my Blog tomorrow for my Blog Candy winner.

Do you remember awhile back I had posted a photo of Elisa covering her mouth and saying this medicine doesn't taste good. Well I created a layout finally with that photo. I love the bright cheery colors of this layout. Thanks for stopping by..

Friends, love and Faith Blog Hop

2011-02-25T07:08:00.000-08:00

I am super excited to be part of My Paper Tree House Studio's Friends, Love, and Faith Blog Hop. Today, we're out in force on the internet -- showing our faith and giving the glory to God. United, we stand as Christian paper crafters and blog owners to make a presence on the internet for all to see. If you are hopping with us, you should have hopped over from (Jennifer Evans). If you happened to just come across this post and you want to join in on the fun, make sure you jump over to the beginning so that you do not miss out: Paper Tree House Studio.

We're celebrating the theme of friends and we're happy to share our projects with you based on the verse:

"...those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (Isaiah 40:31)

First, we would like to take a moment to thank our generous co-sponsors: Zutter, Paper Trunk, Create 365, (I will complete the list and you will be able to update this section.) Together with Paper Tree House Studio, these companies have donated some wonderful prizes for today's blog hop.
Prizes? Oh, yeah! There will be three lucky grand prize winners for today's event.

To enter, simply hop through the blogs and take note of all of the participating DT members of Paper Tree House Studio, and make sure to jot down the "blessed words" they will have in their post, and leave a comment on their posts. Once you gather all of the words, you will have another special Scripture to inspire you to create while leaving His legacy. Then send us an email at mypapertreehousedt@gmail.com listing each of the staff members who participated in today's hop and the completed Scripture. It's that easy. All entries must be received by Monday, February 28, 2011 at 12 noon, EST and seven winners will be randomly chosen to win.

These are the prizes:
One Cricut Gypsy from Paper Tree House Studio

One Bind-it-All from Zutter
One baggy of goodies from Create 365
One baggy of goodies from Papperie
One baggy of goodies from Paper Trunk
One year subscription to Scrapbook News and Review
One $15 gift card to Memorable Seasons so that you can purchase your favorite goodies!!

Here is a little blog Candy I am offering some Cosmo Cricket:

In addition, many of our participating bloggers will have amazing blog candy and RAKS available for one of their blessed visitors by simply leaving a comment and becoming a follower on their blog. That's a lot of chances to win, so let's get to the Hop!

The next stop on this blog hop is : Natalie Strand

Don't forget to look for the blessed words so that you can win BIG and follow our blog!
Here are my blessed words "and he will make your paths straight."

Have Fun!
Dolores Cancel

reduce, reuse, and recycle it...

2011-02-23T08:49:00.000-08:00

that what I love to do with scrapbooking items. So it was perfect when I was given a challenge over at Tallyscraper to reuse scrapbooking packaging. I have so many that I just put away. In my layout I used the packaging from Jillibean Soup's corrugated shapes and the pins. I knew I would eventually use it along with the product. It went perfect with the Websters Pages Hollywood Vogue paper. loved it!!!

"A Life Without Love is No Love At All"

2011-02-08T17:01:00.000-08:00

"A Life Without Love is No Love At All" - Online Christ's Love Crop - THIS weekend!!!

Join the design team over on our My Paper Tree House (MPTH) Ning forum

for lots of inspiration, encouragement, games, challenges, design team RAKS, give-a-ways, and good times

for the love crop coming up this weekend, Feb 12 -13, 2011!!

This is not a blog hop but an online crop over on our forum, so be sure to join up for free over on our Ning forum which is a message board with lots of inspiration + love to play along with us all weekend!

Here's a tidbit more about the fun ahead...

Our theme:

LOVE.

We know that February is normally Valentine's Day but this crop is all about Christ love.

Games:

Bingo.

Love words challenge using Scripture.

Challenges:

"Cards in a bag" challenge.

"Fallin' in LOVE" challenge.

{Create a layout about when you started to love Jesus by sharing when your walk started}

Color challenge

{Create a project using pink, gray, white, black. You may only use these colors for your project}

PLUS

here is a sketch

you can use for one of the challenges above (your choice)...

many thanks in advance to our wonderfully monthly Sponsor

ZUTTER

Can't wait to see you all there, it's going to be a fun weekend!!!

Creating, Birthdays, and Blog Hop

2011-02-07T04:33:00.000-08:00

I am really having so much fun enjoying my ME time lately, the best part of it is creating to hang on my living room wall. Here is another project created for my wall, I used some tattered angels mists and Helmar 450 Quick Dry to adhere the pattern papers to the canvas.

I also wanted to share some birthday party pics of Elisa and friends. I want to thank Michele Marin from Creative Cakes for my daughters fabulous cake! Thanks to Maria for helping me by decorating the fans, umbrealla and hats for me, and creating my birthday banner using my Cricut Imagine. Love that machine!!!

As many of you know I am part of My Paper Treehouse, and this month we are having another Blog Hop, below are all the details. Hoping you could join us.

In 2009 SNR magazine did something amazing.. they put out a
call for women that loved the Lord and were willing to be loud
about it by joining them in a blog hop. They believed only a few
people were going to join, but to their surprise hundreds of
women did Paper Tree House Studio is trying to do just that...
we are trying to see how many of you paper crafters out there
love God and are not ashamed to admit it.

If you are one of these brave girls, we want you to join us on this
hop.We will have TONS of prizes, along with GRAND prizes to
offer. We will be partnering up with some of your favorite
manufacturers in order to bring you the absolute best... It will be
a day filled with Friends, Love, and of course Faith!

If you are interested in being part of this blog hop please e-mail
mypapertreehouse@gmail.com with the Subject Line "Blog Hop".
Once you email me, I will send you all of the information you will
need. The hop will begin on February 25-28 and in order for you
to be part of the hop you need to email me by February 16. I am
praying to the Lord that His children will once again have the
boldness to stand up and represent Him with the talents He has
provided.. :)

Make sure to take the banner and post it on your blog with a link
back to this post. I would love to see hundreds of women
participate once again, but I need your help. :)

{love} is in the air..

2011-02-04T15:01:00.000-08:00

As many of you know I have been working on some canvas's no not painting, but creating layouts on canvas. Used some Modge Podge Glossy. Loved it. I just got the recent pattern papers from Websters Pages can you say beautiful, but I was working on a canvas that was 11x14 and of course papers come 12x12 so what is a girl to do. Rip it, tear it and just glue it on. I used 3 lines from Websters Pages for my canvas. loved how they all color coordinated. Hope you like it as much as I do!! Have to get a better photo, but was too excited and wanted to share.

Happy Birthday Baby Girl!!!

2011-01-31T06:55:00.000-08:00

Wow I can't believe that she is now 6! It seems like just yesterday I was holding this beautiful dark haired baby girl in my arms. The day she was born my room was filled with family, we laughed, I cried in pain, laughed some more and then the doctor who was probably just the funniest shone the light on me and said in his Bad Detective voice "Dolores Where were you exactly nine months ago" LOL we were hysterical laughing. Elisa has been such a blessing in so many ways, she just lights you up. Thank you Lord for giving me our family this precious little gift. Here she is Elisa photo from today layouts from 5 mos. to age 5 Thanks for looking

Canvas layout

2011-01-29T09:06:00.000-08:00

I love the simple look of my canvas layout, I used an 8x10 canvas and just created a layout on it. Lots of stitching love the outcome. This is for my newly painted living room. Don't you just love when stuff comes together. Thanks for stopping by.

my finished invite

2011-01-26T10:15:00.000-08:00

Here is the inside of my invite, I used Birthday Sizzix folder with some smooch, and bling. I love the final outcome. Hey I think I can do cards now. LOL. I am now working on a matching Birthday Banner will post soon.

Don't be late!

2011-01-23T20:23:00.000-08:00

Yes that is going to be the theme for Elisa's 6 Birthday, I have decided that she would have a Tea Party theme for her Birthday. As a child I loved Alice in Wonderland, my favorite part of the movie is when the Rabbit runs around yelling I'm Late, I'm Late. Well Elisa loves the modern version of Alice in Wonderland and I thought hey why not? The inside of the invite will read a little like this " You are cordially invited to Elisa's 6th Birthday it will be a Tea Party late afternoon Lunch. Please come dressed in your Finest Tea Party Attire. I got that idea from Tea Parties for kids loved it. I might change it up a bit, but I will definitely show you the final outcome. I used my Cricut imagine using the Cricut cake Birthday Cartridge. Can you say Perfect. Thanks for looking!

Products Used: Cricut Imagine, Bazzill Cardstock (white), Pattern Papers Stamping Up (Love), Sizzix Big Shot, Sizzix Top Note Stamping Up Bigz Die, Cricut Birthday Cakes Cartridge, Quick Quotes Powder Puff Chalking Ink, Queen & Co. Red Pearls, Martha Stewart Bling, Smooch Pearlized Accent ink, Pebbles Inc, Ribbon

Woo Hoo!!!

2011-01-21T14:14:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting one of these baby's since Nov. I now am the proud owner of a Cricut Imagine. OMG I love it!!!! At first I thought oh no too big, but after playing for a bit I'm in love. LOL It right on time for me to make Elisa's Birthday Invite. Will post a pic as soon as I make. Thanks for stopping by.

Happy New Year!!!

2011-01-02T17:24:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to bring in this new year, it was quite we went to IHOP for Brunch with the kids then to the movies to see Narnia's next Chronicle. I loved the movie if you haven't watched it yet it really is a must see movie. Now lets talk about 2010 and how happy I am it's over, it was a year of so much emotional stress, hard decisions but it was also a year of growth. I will share with you all tomorrow a layout I created for with my hope and desires for the New Year. In the meantime do you all remember in October I made the decision to join a Gym, got a personal trainer well I haven't really shared about my weight loss progress. I have lost a total of 12 pounds so far, I have lost inches beyond belief and most of all I have gone from a size 12 really close to 14 to a size 10 loose now. I think in the next two weeks I might be a size 8. Cool huh! Here are my before and after pics you can visibly see the weight loss. In so many ways I felt as though I was dying not physically, but emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, then I made the physical decision to live. Yes live, I got out of my rut and began not only going to the gym so that physically I could be healthy I also made a decision to go back to God for my emotional, mental and spiritual state. Am I still struggling, YES but it's a little easier when you have faith that God is in control. thanks for reading, chat with you tomorrow!!!

Blog winner, Merry Christmas and Agape Love

2010-12-24T08:25:00.000-08:00

First I want to say thank you to all who left comments during the My Paper Treehouse Blog Hop. It was so exciting to see how many bloggers left comments. The winner for my prize is Kim, please email me your email addy so that you are able to shop at Scrapbook.com. Go check out the My Paper Treehouse blog to see the grand prize winner.
Also want to take the time to wish you all a very Merry Christmas, or as I would say it in Spanish Feliz Navidad
may the Lord give you all the desires of your heart.

So today as I was doing my last minute Christmas Shopping, Yes I am a procrastinator lol I thought about Agape love. Wow how awesome is that, on Christmas Eve I was thinking about Agape love. You see last night my 22yr old daughter moved out, and though I didn't and still don't agree with her decision she is my daughter and I love her and I thought about Gods love. It was with that same Agape love that can be found in John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. "

I have to have faith in Gods love, it's the only way I am going to accept this decision she has made. She knows our concerns, she knows where we stand, but she also knows more than anything else is that we love her. So I am asking you all to continue to pray for our family through this time. Again have a very Merry Christmas.

My Paper Treehouse Blog Hop

2010-12-15T00:01:00.000-08:00

God's Fingerprints Blog Hop

Dec. 15th-19th

We are celebrating how God has blessed My Paper Treehouse with an awesome design team. Please hop along with us and visit each of the DT members. If you get lost or just found the hop start here. Each of the DT members have a wonderful story to share with you about what God has done and is doing in their lives... these are God's fingerprints. Not only do we have a ton to share with you but there are RAKs along the way, a Great Blog Hop Challenge with a prize and a wonderful Grand Prize from Artful Delight.

First I want to take a moment to say thank you for hopping along with us at My Paper Treehouse, I am very excited to be part of this team. It has been both inspirational as well as motivating to be able to share God's love and mercy. It has not been an easy journey, but God has certainly paved the way so that I can continue to walk in His Footprints. I will tell you what I love about walking with Jesus is that He knows that I'm not perfect and yet He still loves me, how many times I have given up and yet He didn't abandon me. When I'm down I remember that He knew me in the secret place, even before I was conceived in my mother's womb. Here's one of my most recent and favorite layout created for My Paper Treehouse titled I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
If you click on the link you will understand how I feel about God, and how I know that He loves me. Thanks for stopping by my blog, my RAK will be a $10 gift certificate from Scrapbook.com.

We have a blog hop challenge for you.... as you stop at each of the Design Members they will have another item that you will need to add to your layout. All layouts need to be linked up on the My Paper Treehouse Blog by Sunday the 19th 11:59pm PST. One layout will be randomly chosen to win a prize and make sure check back on Monday because we have a special surprise for you.

Not only do we have RAKS from the DT members, a prize for creating layout, but we have a Grand Prize too!!! All you have to do is comment on all the blogs along the hop!

Our Grand Prize is sponsored by Artful Delight! They have the most wonderful kits each month for a great price. You wouldnt believe everything you get in the kit..... it is full of the newest and greatest scrappy items. Artful Delight will also custom order you any scrappy item you would like to get your hands on for no additional charge. Please stop by and see Artful Delight and dont forget to tell them that we sent you....

Here is the item you need to add to your layout a flower.

Next you will hop to Damaris Rios. Dont forget you need to leave a comment on each of the blogs and collect the different items for the Blog Hop Challenge Layout. All layouts and comments are due by

Sunday the 19th 11:59pm PST.

Don't forget to stop by on Monday to see our special surprise....

this medicine doesn't taste Good..

2010-12-07T07:57:00.000-08:00

that was Elisa's response to having to give her the antibiotics the Doctor prescribed. She proceeds to tell me that the pharmacists must have made a mistake, because she knows the doctor wanted her to have the medicine that taste like bubble gum, and this medicine doesn't taste good. Then she tells me I need to call the doctor so that he can call the pharmacist to get her the bubble gum one. LOL is really all I could do, but then that sentence stayed with me through out the next few days "This medicine doesn't taste good" I started to hear it differently and I began to analyze it. I thought wow, from the mouth of babes. Recently I have felt as though the emotional journey that I was going through was just too much. I even said last week, as I was driving back home with Chris through tears Lord I know that You only give what I can handle, well it's 25 yrs and I can't handle it no more. So You need to do something, because I am losing it. Chris is getting even more rebellious, but then Elisa's sentence came to my mind. "This medicine doesn't taste Good" and I thought God are you talking to me through my child, what are You trying to tell me? I don't understand, help me. At first I thought Spiritual Healing, so I look through the Bible and the verses I found didn't relate to what I thought God was trying to tell me, but today I found it. All I could do was jump up and down because I found through His word what he was telling me. "1 Peter 5:10 And the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ after you have suffered for a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast". You see in life we will suffer, go through trials and tribulations and I am human I question why now? and I realized it's because the medicine that I want, that I am seeking is a quick healing one, I too want the bubble gum flavor, but God has to restore me and make me strong so therefore it may not taste good at the moment. It's a process like the clay in the potters hand, he has to mold me, make me stronger so that I can stand firm in what He has for me. You see I have been seeking Him more, really taking strength from the word my Medicine and though sometimes the healing process takes a little longer He reminds me that He is Jehovah Rapha meaning "the Lord our Healer". In Acts 3:16 by faith in the name of Jesus, this man who you see and know was made strong, it is in Jesus name and the faith that comes through Him that has given this complete healing to him as you can see" So if you are maybe feeling a little sick, or have a long lasting illness tell God you need some medicine, you need healing. You want to be stronger, you want to be able to stand firm and you want to be healed. Maybe your medicine is like Elisa's right now and it doesn't taste good, but the purpose of that medicine is to bring healing to your ailment, your illness. thanks for reading and know that the scrapper in me will soon be creating a layout of Elisa covering her mouth cause this medicine doesn't taste good.

Full circle

2010-12-02T16:23:00.000-08:00

I didn't think it was possible to get over the hurt. I say this to you today, because I was looking through past layouts and found my layout titled Sad, as I read it I remember clearly how angry and hurt I was. 3 yrs have past since I created this layout Sometimes we forget that it's not in our time, but in Gods time. He made a promise to me a long time ago and today he reminded me of this. Thank You to my Paper Treehouse for a wonderful challenge. I am going to share the journaling here
"Look at me, a grown woman sad. For the past 2 weeks this is how I have felt, so much has happened in the last 2 yrs in my life, and now is when I'm finally facing the decisions that have led me here.
Two years ago I made a decision to leave the congregation I was attending and a member of. I was not just a member, but the treasurer, president of the woman's fellowship at the local church and asst. treasurer for the Women's fellowship of the church council. My responsibilities were many, but at the time I didn't mind I enjoyed doing God's work. It was never about the titles, but of how we as a church can grow. I had such a passion to please God, but somewhere, some how I lost my focus. I place my confidence in man, forgetting that it was God in whom I had to be confident. Psalm 118:8 It is better to take refuge in the Lord, than to trust in man.� You see man will fail, and I forgot that.
Was I ignorant, did I believe that by making this decision my sisters and brother's in Christ would support me? NO, but I did believe that they wouldn't totally abandon me. My so called sisters who loved me while I was an active member who called me their friends are no longer around.
Was I surprised; YES because we shared I thought the good, bad, and sometimes the ugly. We talked, laughed, cried; now it's gone. I question were they really my friends. Did they really love me, would they care that I'm sad, because I feel abandoned by them. I don't know the answer. I have tried to reach out to them and I would get the Oh I'm busy or can I call you back. Still Waiting? NO. Do I understand that they may not want to socialize with an outsider. NO. I thought we were friends, no wait I thought we were sisters in Christ.
Have I changed? Yes, sometimes so much so I feel bitter and sadness because yet again man has failed me. Did they forget the hurt I went through? YES!
I wonder yet again if they have forgotten the parable of the Prodigal Son. Do they have no hope that the Lord will touch my heart once again and make me whole again? Do I forgive as God has one so many times (70X70); I'm so desperately trying to. It's hard feeling the way that I do.
I called upon God today, and asked him for strength, forgiveness, and healing and so willingly He answered. You have been forgiven, I have loved you from the moment you were conceived, and I have your life in my hands. I will mend your heart; put your faith in Me. I will not forsake you. I love you, I will take away this sadness, and I will bring you joy; just put your faith in Me."

Wow, is all I can say when I read this, but then I realized Thank you Lord because You have brought back that joy. If you're wondering have I forgiven those who I believed at the time hurt me. Yes I have, I am now going back to that same church. I realized that with so many changes going on in my life and decisions that had to be made concerning Chris that I needed God, that I needed to fellowship with people who guess what? Still loved me, yes they do. They put our family in their prayers, I have such peace now but that is only because God was able to heal, and mend my broken heart. Because even in my darkest hour I was able to reach for God. I journaled when I was upset, put it down creating my layouts and you know when they say creating memories for the future it could be just 3 years later just to see where I was and where I am now. My current layout is about being confident " Be Confident of this very thing that he which begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ" So I just want to say be encouraged and even in your darkest hours seek Him, and He too will show you how you have grown, how to forgive.
Thanks for reading!

My altered boxes and thank you!!!

2010-12-01T03:08:00.000-08:00

So a few months ago my friend Debbie created this really amazing cake made out of pattern paper and hat boxes I thought it was fabulous. I spoke to her recently and told her she inspired a project I was working on, I really loved the outcome of my cake. Thank you Debbie!!! I created this for a DT tryout, but guess what happened, last night while I was creating my finishing touches I took a photograph and thought let me upload now and then work on the other project well needless to say that my last few images would not upload unto my computer, I was going crazy last night. I just couldn't get it to fix and figured why even finish the other project when it was due at Midnight it really made no sense. So I go to sleep at 12:35am and wake up at 5am and go to my camera delete a few pictures and now viola it uploads. UGHHHHHH why didn't I think about that last night I tell you why I was tired. LOL So I wanted to share what I created. Products Used: Imaginisce Twitterpader line , Imaginisce flowers, Prima Marketing butterflies, flower and spray. Helmar 450 Quick Dry

I also wanted to post here a thank you to my local friends who have made cards for Evelyn, and to my online friend Julie Tucker-Wolek who is just the most generous, loving friend. Who I have never met, but know that one day at CHA I will. She is a faithful blog follower, and when she saw my post about Evelyn she wanted to help, well she not only made a card for Evelyn but she also posted my story on A few of my Favorite things challenge blog well needless to say I have received many emails asking me where to send their card they made for Evelyn. I was touched by the overwhelming response. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart I know that when Evelyn receives these homemade cards, these cards made from the heart, these cards made with passion and concern and prayers that she will be overwhelmed with happiness! Thank you!!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2010-11-25T07:31:00.000-08:00

I know it's been awhile since I last posted, but I have been busy with life. So this past week was a week of celebrating thanks. I had to bring food for Elisa's first Thanksgiving at Girl Scouts for family and friends and well as much as I love cooking I really didn't want to go through all the hassle so instead I purchased yes you read it purchased 6 already made Rotisserie chickens and put them in my oven with green and red peppers. I cooperated lol, did my part. On Monday I had to bring dessert for Chris's friends and family luncheon he was so happy that I was there. Well yesterday I was baking cookies all day, first time making sugar cookies loved the outcome. Tried a new recipe, peanut butter kisses cookies. Everyone loved them, they look too sweet to me and not really my thing but they were made with love and prepared with a heart full of thanksgiving. We are going to my moms today. I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
I also wanted to share a layout I created last week for Paper Treehouse, I really love this challenge. The word for me was renew. In so many ways I want God to renew me, from my faith to just everyday life. I need Gods presence in my life, it's what is keeping going from day to day. I am finding my strength in Him, a new LOVE I didn't think it was possible to feel that first love once again. So today on Thanksgiving I am saying thank you Lord, for being ever present in my life, for my wonderful family who has been so supportive in recent decisions I have made, thank You for blessing me with children and a husband who loves so passionately. Just Thank YOU!!!!!

Don't fear...

2010-11-14T18:17:00.000-08:00

How many times do we fear the unknown, the future. Lately that is what I have feared, the what if's of the unknown, but I have to remember that God has it all in his hands. He has promised us a kingdom. In Luke 12:32 Fear not, little flock for it is your Fathers good pleasure to give you the kingdom. It's a verse that gives me hope of what God has in stored for me.

I created this layout for the challenge over at My Paper Treehouse thanks for looking!!!

Friends are Gods way of taking care of us...

2010-11-10T06:38:00.000-08:00

how appropriate is that quote. I want you all to meet my best friend Evelyn, I have known her since I was pregnant with my first child which means a little more than 25 yrs, but we really became close when I moved into her neighborhood 17 yrs ago. I remember her telling me one day when we were having a girl time together " you know when I first met you, I was a little scared of you. You were unapproachable and I thought she just didn't like me. LOL but here we are 25 yrs later and still the best of friends. Oh don't get me wrong we had our moments were I thought we would never speak to each other again, but God intervened and He gave us a purpose. She was not only the person I went to when I needed prayer, but we could call each other at all hours of the night and just talk. Or even say OMG are you watching Lifetime. Yeah the Lifetime channel was our tear jerker movies. LOL. I am writing about Evelyn today, because I need your help. Evelyn has Breast Cancer, she was diagnosed in May of this year it was heartbreaking to find out the news over the phone, I wanted to be there for her and hold her, cry with her, and just let her know that I'm here, but I can't. I can though call her, cry over the phone, or just lend an ear, but most of all I can pray for her. I believe that my God is a God of healing, I believe that her trials right now are going to be a testimony for others to hear. I spoke with Evelyn on Friday, and she cried and I was trying to be strong for her and encourage and let her know that God has it all in his hands when she told me "Dolores I lost my hair, my nails have gotten black and I'm so weak, I had to buy a wig" and she cried more. In all this though she continued to tell me how God has blessed them, she has to buy organic food which can be quite expensive, but people from her job, and her husbands job have been just donating gift cards to stores that have organic foods. Wow what a blessing, but the one that stood with me was the Wig. I can't picture Evelyn with a wig and she was crying through the store when she went to see them, but the ladies were so comforting towards her then she found it the one that was close to her real hair so she asked the sales girl if she can try it on through tears as she did she then asked how much the lady said $319.78 Evelyn cried even more knowing that she couldn't afford that she is a school teacher who by the way is still working because it is her other outlet. She got in the car and proceeded to pick up her young daughter at school, when the assistant principal so her and asked how she was doing with the chemo. She said she has her good days and bad days, but today it was bad because she went to buy a wig and well they are too expensive. How wonderful was this woman to offer to buy it for her, how God even then was blessing her. Evelyn refused it, can you believe it. Well the next day the woman saw Bobby and said I have something for your wife, and when they got home it was an envelop with $300 dollars. What a Blessing. So I want to do my part and what I'm asking for is not monetary but I'm asking for your creativity, your time. Evelyn has been blessed by so many through this difficult time, and has only had a chance to verbally say thank you, I thought wouldn't it be great if me along with my crafty friends can make her a few blank Thank You cards so that she can send out. If you are interested just send me a shout out at my email edenroses66@yahoo.com. I'm also asking that you keep Evelyn in your prayers, Evelyn has two daughters ages 14 and 6. Please help me in helping my friend. I want her to know that everyone I know is praying and thinking about her. Sorry for the long post. thanks for reading

I am fearfully and wonderfully made...

2010-11-05T20:51:00.000-07:00

I created this layout for My Paper Tree House. I loved the prompt, and knew right away what Bible verse encourages me even in my darkest hours. It is Psalms 139, I remember the first time I read 17yrs ago I was in a class for newly converted Christians where we were given Bible lessons. The Pastor asked me to read it, and as I did the tears began to flow, at the time he didn't realize my past and where I came from but God knew that I had to read it. He knew that it was important for me to know that He loved me from the moment I was conceived, but in my mind I thought how can it be how could HE know. Will he knew because He was there, that is what this Psalm is saying. Why was it important to me? Because as a child I was always told that I was conceived from a violent crime. RAPE. I was told on more than one occasion that the reason I was born was because abortion was not legal in 1966. It should never had reached my ears but it did so I always felt unwanted, unloved but to know that my God was there can you imagine what a burden that lifted. Knowing that God was there and that I was not hidden from Him in the secret place. Yes for the Bible to have it just like that in verse 15 "My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of earth". Wow what a revelation I was not a secret from God, because I was fearfully and wonderfully made. God has all the days ordained for me written in His book. You see then in 1966 God had a purpose for me, it was to know Him, Love Him, Worship Him and my God thank Him because even when I am at my lowest, or in my darkest hour He is alive and well in me, He is my comforter, and my refuge. Thank you to Nana Campana who reminded me by posting this challenge what an Amazing God I serve.

So Thankful

2010-11-04T05:47:00.000-07:00

for really good friends, and especially to my sister Millie. Yesterday I had a terrible day, it seems one of my worst moments and the month has just begun. As most of you know my son Chris who is Downs Syndrome has really been acting up. Really he's 25 yrs old but for some odd reason he is going through his terrible two's. From temper tamtrums to just being stubborn, it is driving me nuts. Well yesterday I finally broke, I mean really just broke down in the street crying because he refused to get on the bus, he stood his ground and said nope I'm not going. Now if you know any child with special needs, then you know that once they stand their ground it's like a force within them and you just can't move them. He began the morning with an attitude, and began his ritual of saying I hate this, I hate that. I knew it was going to be a bad one, but I just couldn't take it anymore and my body and emotions gave in. I just cried told the bus driver to leave, and then just cried, but in that hopeless moment one of my good friends was walking by and started talking to Chris, in this same moment the matron got off the bus went over to me and just Hugged me and said everything is going to be okay, you need to relax we will try to get him to get on the bus. The bus Driver and GOD BLESS this driver parked the bus and made sure along with my friend that Chris got on this bus. I was crying uncontrollably my friend told me to go inside get myself together, my nerves were so bad that I started throwing up, called his social coordinator and told her I can't do this anymore HELP me please. So we made a few calls and yesterday I carried out the decision that has laid heavily in my heart, and with tears and anguish but yet taking comfort from the social worker on the phone, knowing that I have made the right decision. It's not easy, for me and yet some people may judge me, but you don't walk in my shoes to fully understand what an emotional and tormenting year this has been. I love my son Chris, that is without a doubt he made me a MOM first, it was because of him that I wanted more children. He was so loving, and sometimes I still see that but I think that he is ready for far more than I can give him. I'm still emotional about it all, and though I've made the decision doesn't mean that it all happens overnight, and that is probably good cause it gives me time to adjust to it all.To my friend Lissette who saw me at my worst, thank you for the beautiful yellow roses you made my night a little brighter. To my sister Millie, thank you for being so supportive and for being there not only for me, but for Elisa too. You taking her to school for me to ensure that she gets there on time, and so that I can deal with Chris has been a blessing. Thanks for reading, please continue to pray for us.

Thank you Basic Grey

2010-11-01T08:35:00.000-07:00

for creating these fabulous card kits that my 5 yr old could enjoy being a card maker for the day. That's what Elisa and I did yesterday, she was pretty sick with a horrible cough and I didn't want to take her out. We were going to go to the New York Botanical Garden yesterday, but it was too cold to be outdoors and be sick at the same time so instead we created. She was so excited, she ran to Daddy and said guess what we are going to do today he says what? she says scrapbooking woo hoo finally. We were just cracking up. So thank you Basic Grey for making it easy for her to create her cards.

Mental Scrapbooking

2010-10-27T20:22:00.000-07:00

lol that was my conversation today with 3 of my friends. How funny and true that is, as much as we may want to scrap when we sit down nothing happens it's like you have lost your mojo. Or maybe it's the circumstance and you just don't have the time and you are mentally scrapping. What about those dreams, how many of us dream of our next project. Girl let me tell you as Tanisha Long always says Scrapbooking is in our minds, and even when you have lost your mojo you are thinking about it. So today I decided to put some of my mental scrapbooking down on paper. LOL Here is what I created.

A love like this, Un amor asi....

2010-10-21T13:39:00.000-07:00

I have been itching to scrap since I cleaned up my scrappy mess area. I just had not been feeling well, but today I took the time to create this layout of my husband and I. I love this photo of us, I used the Scarlet lime kit love the mix of pattern papers and embellishments that were included in this kit. As soon as I saw the background paper I knew I had to use our initials on it! As if I were to carve it on a tree. I used smooch spritz for the masking really love the outcome of this layout. It's titled un amor asi, which means A love like this!!! Simple yet productive layout!!! thanks for looking

A new attitude

2010-10-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

Yes that is what I have now, not that I was a snob or anything. LOL It's just the way I have to see life right now with a new attitude, that no matter how wrong things may go in the day I have to remain just a wee bit positive. You see a few weeks ago before I left for my scrapbooking retreat with my girlfriends, I was in a deep depression the bad thing was all the thoughts that were taking over my mind. To be honest it was UGLY, I cried cause emotionally and mentally I was at my lowest. Has my situation changed actually NO, I still have to deal with the sucky part of everyday life, but I had to do something for me. Some of my friends suggested a Doctor, I didn't want to go there because I was afraid I'd get addicted to pills and my only addiction right now is purchasing scrapbook goodies. What could I do I thought? What besides scrapping is a stress releaser, well I did some research and found that exercise is a great way to release stress. I have been wanting to take some Zumba classes because a scrapbooking friend I know named Becky Schweninger Teichmiller has been expressing her love for Zumba. So I thought hey I can dance I can do this, I looked into a Gym that offered Zumba classes and I would still be able to use their equipment at a great price. Well I have taken it a step further, I now have a personal trainer why not? I need to lose weight as well as the stress. I have been feeling Great about me, has my environment changed NO but I have a new attitude now so I look at things differently.

Here's a pic of my DH and me you can see how my weight loss will progress from here.

Getaway weekend

2010-10-01T08:51:00.000-07:00

Last weekend a few of us from our local Meetup went to Quick Quotes Private Reserve weekend. To be honest I didn't know what to expect, but I had a great time with my scrapping buddies and I made new ones. I really enjoyed Michelle the instructor for the weekend. Everyone at Quick Quotes was genuinely happy to speak with! They had great giveaways, my favorite was the canvas projects. Well here are just some of the project I created of course I tweaked mine, but in the end used a lot of the products given to me. Quick Quotes projects below:

another one of my favorites which I probably followed to the tee, except for the ribbon tied around the photo. I loved this project so much I purchased another to take home so I can make the identical for my daughters best friend

this was one of my favorite projects, all the papers in the kit included black & white, but I used Glitz pattern paper and used the diecuts Quick Quotes provided for my mask and frames

this next one project I was using all Girls Paperie Pattern Papers, love the soft colors in this line. Lots of Prima too!

thanks for looking now to finish a chipboard album using G45 papers

My Minds Eye Sketch Challenge

2010-09-22T08:03:00.000-07:00

So I stumbled across MME sketch challenge, and thought OMG I have collected {lol} so much of those pattern papers that I just didn't want to cut into. It was just so pretty, so I decided to brave it and cut, love my take on the sketch. I tried so hard to follow but in the end I was inspired by it. You had to use the word thank you on your layout, I used thankful on my layout
Products used: MME So Sophie pattern papers, bling and alpha, Lost and Found brad, and stickers, maya road envelop. thanks for looking

now really who does not love chipboard?

2010-09-20T13:34:00.000-07:00

I love using chipboard on my projects. It is so easy to alter whether you paint it, glitter it or leave it natural it just adds the perfect dimension to a layout. So when I saw that Magistical Memories was having a contest using a sketch and chipboard I was like why not? Here is my layout using there sketch thanks for looking !!!!

I did it!

2010-09-16T03:16:00.000-07:00

I have not done this in a long time, but I took the plunge and decided to go out for Fancy Pants Design Team Call! I was told about the DT Call through a phone conversation, and asked when is it over? Tomorrow oh no I'm not going to try out, that is not enough time for me to get something done, but then yesterday at 6:00pm I thought you know what I'm going to do it. I am going to sit a my scrap desk look for some Fancy Pants pattern paper and I am going to create. I will tell you what the best part of these few hours of my me time. I was quickly inspired by the Vintage Valentine line, now I have worked with it before but that was 6 months ago. I found the right photo and began my work, my love for distressing had a few tears in the paper but made that work in the end I truly love this titled Dream. A little girls dream to begin the journey of dance the anticipation of learning her new steps, meeting her new friends. This little girl is Elisa my baby girl who just loves to dream a little dream and dance her little heart.

I was so inspired to create that I went into that negative space yes I did it! OMG and can I say I just loved it. Love the simplicity of it. The photos are old when Elisa was 3 look at those chubby little cheeks.

Had a scrap so you know to try my hand at my making a card and love it too! So even if I don't make the team, the thrill of the call inspired me to CREATE!!!!!!

Timeless Daydreams

2010-09-12T11:22:00.000-07:00

contest has been extended until Saturday September 18th. Check out the details here. Looking forward to seeing everyone's projects. Here is the link to the Challenge ONE!

On another note, I taught my class on Friday and as usual had a great time. I really do love the group of ladies and how they take an idea and run with it! Here's my layout using Bazzill Edges!!!

Finally

2010-09-09T06:44:00.000-07:00

got a photo of Elisa on her first day of school, right outside I love the brick wall at her school. So she sees my camera and this was our conversation.
Elisa : Mom really?
Mom: I said yes I didn't take a picture this morning.
Elisa: fine!
gives me this whiny look. I take the picture delete it.
Mom: come on please smile
Elisa: I don't want to!
Mom: I am taking you to IHOP
Elisa: Okay

Now she puts on this big smile and it's just perfect! She had a wonderful day and most of all she likes her teacher as do I. thanks for looking

First Day of School

2010-09-08T06:24:00.000-07:00

So today is the first official day of Public Schools here in NYC. My baby girl is now in kindergarten and can you believe that me the scrapper did not take a picture! I was in such a rush, Christopher's bus was late so he had to meet us at Elisa's school. I wanted to make sure Elisa ate, and that everything was right in her back. I'll be picking her up at 11am and I know she will tell me all about her day. No School tomorrow or Friday already can you believe that then classes resume on Monday. So next week I'll be home alone and guess what I'll be doing in this peace and quiet environment SCRAPPING!!! WOO HOO!!! today I'll relax for 2 hours to some light chores then pick up Elisa and take her to IHOP!!!

On another note, Timeless Daydreams is having a 4 week back to school contest, head on over there and sign up! Can't wait to see you there!!!

where have I been?

2010-08-30T10:30:00.000-07:00

Well I was sick with Strep throat for about a week, I got Chris off on the bus for Camp 10 days ago he is due to return on Wednesday. I spoke to him on Friday he was excited because he as he says got a girlfriend name Jennifer, that kid is just too funny. I decided on Saturday that I would redo his room. So now instead of relaxing I am painting but I can't wait to see his reaction to a freshly painted room. I was able to scrap last week, I was inspired by the Timeless Daydreams July/August kit. It's packed with pattern papers from Little Yellow Bicycle line Boardwalk. When I finish with Chris room I will then get my scrapping ON! lol Any way here are two layouts I have created, thanks for looking!!!

doing the countdown

2010-08-18T11:33:00.000-07:00

as some of you may know my son Chris is leaving for camp in just 2 more days. I am doing getting everything listed on that long campers list. I'm more than positiive he will need 2 suitcases. It's for 13 days and it's the first time he's going to be away on his own for that long. On a good note I think he is more excited than I am. He is telling everyone who will listen that he is going to camp, and then he asks them are you going to miss me. I tell you this kid is just too funny!

Oh I created a layout for Prima's August sketch challenge, and I just love Prima so here is my take. Thanks for stopping by. If you want to participate here is the blog link Prima and it was the August 9th post.

Lazy Sunday, turns into a Scrappy Sunday...

2010-08-15T14:17:00.000-07:00

As sick as I feel, stuffy nose, fever, light headed and I still find time to do one of my favorite things. SCRAP of course. It is just so relaxing, but I must admit had to put my head down on my table a few times I just felt the room moving. Here is a card I created with Ruby Rock-it Designs and I used a sketch from Paper Crafts magazine July/August issue. I also created a very simple layout! Well thanks for looking! Muah!!!

Had a great weekend!

2010-08-09T07:33:00.000-07:00

Went to the movies to see Despicable Me, what a great kids movie. It was 3D and even had a good story line! I decided it was finally time to cut into the Ruby Rock-It designs pattern papers, oh I loved working with this paper and embellies to match. If you have not seen their products here is a link to the website Ruby Rock-It. I love, love, love the chipboard alpha it has this distress look. Fabulous! Today is a new day, new beginning and you guessed it I feel my scrapping coming on! Have a great day and thanks for looking!

Refuge

2010-08-08T06:42:00.000-07:00

that is the name of my most recent Perfume which I purchased at Charlotte Russe. How odd and yet perfect. You may wonder why odd, well because I never took the time in the last week to read the name, I just put it in my cart. Perfect because in a time when I most need to seek refuge I have found it, not in my perfume but in knowing that God is still here in my life confirming things for me even in a bottle of perfume. Letting me know that He is my Refuge. Psalms 9:9 The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed a stronghold in times of trouble. Recently I created a layout titled Jesus take the Wheel, really its about just letting go and giving it all to God. Trusting, that He is in charge even when you feel discouraged, broken and weak. I want to thank Leah Crowe for creating a challenge about just letting it go, putting it out there on paper. Am I still struggling, the answer is Yes but I do know that He is my refuge, my protector and that I have to let it go! Thanks for stopping by.

Clip it Up

2010-08-07T04:40:00.000-07:00

As some of you know about 2 weeks ago I was the blog winner over at Clip it Up by Renee, well I was to say the least surprised but excited too. I already have the Clip it Up Jumbo Unit, and I thought oh well if I get the same one, I'll be okay with that because it is a handy storage tool to have. Well OMG I got my goodies and I got these I was truly excited and now I can't wait to put these up today!!! So thanks to Clip it Up for an awesome prize!!!

Mad hatter

2010-08-06T08:28:00.000-07:00

Oh I just love this paper from Graphic 45 as soon as I got it in my hands I was inspired to create! Loved it so much that I ordered more of this fabulous paper so I can use my Maya Road Chipboard Home album. In October I will be teaching my creative class this layout, Making the most out of your pattern paper. You know how it is you buy a pattern paper and are afraid to cut it, either because it's too pretty or you are just intimidated by the design. I will be showing how to delve right into it. I was thinking today wouldn't it be great for all who attended the class to wear Mad Hatter Hats, so for those of you attending that October class be inspired by the colors of the layout, and wear a matching top so that we can all take a group photo and scrap it!!!! thanks for looking

I can't believe...

2010-07-29T04:14:00.000-07:00

that my son Chris turns 25 today! He looks maybe 16 though, as many of you know my son Chris has Downs Syndrome. I still remember the day he was born, I was 19 and told there was something wrong with my son. My first instinct was protection, then it was questions like what is Downs Syndrome? Can I take him home? Will he live? I was so young and scared at the unknown, but one look into his tiny little face and I knew at that moment that I had to do everything that I possibly could for him. He needed me to protect him, to love him, nurture him and be there for him. As a mother I became very protective of him, I would lash out to people who were ignorant. You see they didn't know that though its hard to have a child with a disability it is also in some strange way a blessing. He has definitely given us our fare share of headaches but the laughter, and love has all been worth it. Today he's 25 a man, I was told he wouldn't live past 10, I was too young to care for him, I couldn't give him what he needed well I proved those doctors wrong. He's my son, Chris made me a mother one with strength that I didn't know I had. Even with the heartaches I love this boy, this man, my son! Happy Birthday Chris!!!

OMG I am so excited!

2010-07-27T08:09:00.000-07:00

I received a text message this morning from my friend Christine R. to tell me hey did you know that you won a prize on Clip it Up by Renee. I was like what, OMG I can't believe it! What a great way to start my day which already started a little gloomy. So thank you to Clip it Up for choosing me!

If Only....

2010-07-23T06:44:00.000-07:00

someone else could really walk in my shoes. In life we meet people, we bond, we may literally wear the same shoe size, but we don't live the same lives. I vent here because I feel it's the only time I can really be me. I can cry as I type or smile from cheek to cheek when things are going right. Just lately my son has been more than a handful, and sometimes I just feel as though I am losing my mind and I think can someone else take my job for a day. Yes I knew being a mother to a child with special needs was going to be hard, we were going to go through struggles, I just thought that it would only be when he was a child not an adult. OMG can I say next week he will be 25 and it's getting harder who would have thought. I'm so over it, I just give up now when he starts with his attitudes. How many more tears do I have to shed, how many more times do plead or beg please behave. He leaves to camp on August 20th for 13 days and I am counting the days that for the first time he will be away from home for more than 2 days. I am a little worried that the camp will call me and say you need to pick him up then what? So please pray that things get better, because to be honest I am just tired, overwhelmed and really stressed out. If you have read thanks for letting me vent.

The Girls Paperie

2010-07-21T07:15:00.000-07:00

I just love these pattern papers from The Girls Paperie, the colors are primary and perfect for school photos, 4th of July of even everyday photos. This kit is still available over at Timeless Daydreams so hop on over. Here are a few of my layouts created with the kit! thanks for looking!!

Freaky Friday Challenges

2010-07-11T15:16:00.000-07:00

over at Timeless Daydreams. Really what was I thinking when I came up with this challenge, 44 embellishments for real well I did it! Your layout had to have 11 flowers, 11 bling, 11 buttons, and 11 ribbons all this because I wanted to celebrate my upcoming birthday! Wait I even challenged everyone to come up with an 11 letter title starting with the letter D. OMG not an easy task, in the end I like what I created if you need to be challenged visit us at Timeless Daydreams the community is really great! Here is my layout, thanks for looking

Woo Hoo I Scrapped!

2010-07-08T21:42:00.000-07:00

Okay so I altered an MOSD Perfectly Shaped Home Plate into a banner, loved working on this. Of course it looks so much better in person. I love anything chipboard, so I took my book and added to of my favorite techniques stitching and distressing with ink. I used Making Memories pattern papers, Basic Grey chipboard monograms, Helmar 450 and Ranger Crackle Paint. So here is my Christmas in July project. Thanks for looking!

Stress!!!

2010-07-08T04:04:00.000-07:00

It's funny how stress can disrupt our lives. It's been way too long since I've blogged I was on a roll in May and then life happened. I know you have all been there, but this really took a toll on me. I didn't want to scrap, didn't want to talk, all I did was reflect and stress about what was going on! On the outside I was smiling, but inside I was a big mess.

Today is a new day, and I decided since its a new day I will start with a new mind frame. Don't know if you understand what I mean but I have to focus on being positive and let the negativity just fade away.

Moving on we had a great 4th of July weekend spent with family, enjoyed BBQ's and the lake, here are some pics which I'm hoping to scrap soon get back into my mojo!!!

Chim, Chimney!!!

2010-06-03T15:28:00.000-07:00

So yesterday my daughter got her costume for her dance recital later this month. The girls are going to be conductors to the song from Mary Poppins Chim, Chimney. She was so happy, and if you know Elisa she had her costume on within seconds of getting it. lol

Winner of Blog Giveaway

2010-06-01T08:18:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for posting and following my blog. It was coming on here this morning and seeing that I had 16 comments. This was really a rough weekend for my family as my mother in law, became suddenly ill and is currently in ICU. For those of you who have been keeping her in your prayers, a million thank you's. Please continue to pray for this fabulous woman whom I love and cherish! Here is a layout I did a few yrs ago of my MIL.

the winner

Melissa@WhimsyPics said...: I guess I've got some things to learn! Glad your son got into sleep away camp - I pray it'll be a great experience for him!Thanks for the opportunity to win some Dear Lizzy stuff!Please email me your addy!

Blog giveaway

2010-05-28T07:08:00.000-07:00

I just got some good news yesterday concerning my son Chris, I have been looking into programs other than day programs to enroll him in. In the process I found out that your children aren't legally yours can you believe that. Yes you are the parent you are there guardian, but you are not their legal guardian unless it's down on paper. Example you are in a hospital situation child is 18 they ask are you the Legal Guardian your first response is yes, no you're wrong you are the parent guardian but not legal. Weird right? Well I am now in the process of filling out these papers for Chris which means I can make decisions for him and not the state. Onto good news Chris was accepted to go to a sleep away camp for 10 days he is so excited about this. I am praying everything goes well there in July I will keep you all updated. I am looking into respite programs but I do need to be his Legal Guardian first before I make further decisions.

On another note, because of my good news I decided to have a blog giveaway. I have extra of some of American Crafts Dear Lizzy line and thought I would share. Please post a comment here, and feel free to share my blog and become followers. It would be great to reach 75 followers, and I think that my friends will help me. Thanks you have until Memorial Day 5/31/2010 to post I will announce a winner on Tuesday.

Sketch Inspirations/Timeless Daydreams

2010-05-24T14:27:00.000-07:00

Check out what the designers did with the Sketch provided from Sketch Inspirations. Timeless Daydreams is sponsoring the May's Blissful Sunset kit this week on Sketch Inspirations. So if you want a chance to win this fabulous kit featuring 7gypsies Avignon, and Kaisercraft's Devonshire Pattern Papers, along with some Prima flowers go play over at Sketch Inspirations

Above is my take on the sketch

Scrapbook Expo

2010-05-23T05:55:00.000-07:00

My first time there, my reviews. Well it was small, of course in comparison to CHA but there were some great deals from local scrapbook stores, and maybe two manufacturers where there. Zutter was there, the funny thing is I almost left without seeing their booth. The location should have been in the middle but they were placed in a corner that I'd originally missed and only found it after I went to food court because oddly enough they were located not too far from the food court. I was able to play with the distresser and OMG I absolutely loved it!!!! I shopped at a store called Creek Bank Creations, they had the latest BoBunny lines, MME lines, and Girls Paperie I loved this line so pretty it's a must have. At another store I got 4 packs of American Crafts thickers for $10 and you all know I love my thickers got $20 dollars worth with American Crafts Cardstock for $12. Oh and I was able to play with Spellbinders, now I have heard of this but didn't know what it was. Well I was sold, I purchased some butterfly stamps and the Spellbinders Shapebilities Nested Butterfly Diecut, Beautiful. Can't wait to play with it!!!!

Overall I had a great time, saw some old scrapping friends and spent a little too much money, in the end it was so worth the trip. Looking forward to next year.

Friday I created a few more layouts with the May kit Blissful Sunset from Timeless Daydreams if you haven't gotten your hands on this kit now is the time! I just love the colors. Also just some other project created from Scraps of My little shoebox that I had! Thanks for stopping by

Blissful Sunset

2010-05-16T15:21:00.000-07:00

That is the name of the new kit over at Timeless Daydreams, love the pattern papers of this kit. It's a mixture of 7Gypsies with Kaisercraft, and of course lets not forget we have to have Prima embellishments. Also want to mention that Timeless Daydreams is looking for a Contest Coordinator here is the info:

Create monthly scrapbooking contest. ex. layout contest, card contest, etc... The more creative the better!!!Post Contest on our forum, Scrapscene and Scrapbook Calls, Willowtraders and any other site that allows it.Send admin contest details for posting on Facebook Fan page and Bulk Forum email.See contest through from beginning to end, From promoting to reminders for contest cycle.Communicate with winner for address info - send address to admin.TD provides the prize.Coordinator must be socially active on our boards and other boards.Compensation - Nice Discount in the store.If you are interested - please send me an email telling me why you would be the perfect Contest Coordinator! michele@timelessdaydreams.com

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T08:56:00.000-07:00

just wanted to wish every Mother a very special Mother's Day. Today I sit back and think on how I have been blessed just to be a Mother. Has it been easy no motherhood never is, but God has given most of us this Gift. Today as I began to write this it dawned on me how God Blessed me with four beautiful children, is one different yes he is but only physically and mentally. He is still my son, a part of me. All of them as I think about it are different in their own ways their characters are all different. One daughter is so naturally loving, the other is a little cautious and maybe a bit standoffish and one has a very strong will character. One thing they all have in common is that they come from a woman who is just blessed to have them. I always think of Hannah from the Bible and how she waited yrs and yrs to have a child. How she prayed profusely at the altar for God to bless her with a son, and she had so much faith that it would be done and how God listened to her prayers and blessed her with Samuel. I tell you this because recently I have been going through so much turmoil with my son Chris, and well today I took a step of faith and went back to church after a few years and just sat in the service and asked God to just help me with my decisions, I sat and listened to the preaching and was reminded again today of Hannahs strength, her turmoil and her blessing. I then realized that I still have hope! So when all else fails I need to remember that there is still HOPE, if I have FAITH. Here's a layout I did two yrs ago of my blessings. All four of them!

How do you measure love? You embrace Holland

2010-05-06T15:34:00.000-07:00

Lately it seems I am reminded that I am living in Holland, and though there are many wonderful things about Holland, it's been a struggle lately. Of course I don't live in Holland, but when you read this poem by Emily Perl Kingsley titled "Welcome to Holland" you'll understand.

I am often asked to describe the experience of a raising a child with a disability to try to help people who have not shared that unique experience to understand it, to imagine how it feels. It's like this, when you're going to have a baby, it's like planning a fabulous vacation trip to Italy. You buy a bunch of guide books and make your wonderful plans. The Coliseum. The Michael Angelo David. The Gondolas in Venice. You many learn some handy phrases in Italian. it's all very exciting. After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives. you pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later, the plane lands. the stewardess comes in and says "Welcome to Holland" you say "what do you mean Holland?" I signed up for Italy! I'm supposed to be in Italy. All of my life I've dreamed of Italy" But there's been a change in the flight plan. They've landed in Holland and there you must stay. The important thing is that they haven't taken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famine, and disease. It's just a different place. It's slower paced than Italy, but after you've been there for awhile and you catch your breath, you look around and you begin to notice that Holland has windmills.. Holland has tulips. Holland even has Rembrandt's. But everyone you know is busy coming and going from they're bragging about Italy... and what a wonderful time they had there. And for the rest of your life, you say "Yes that's where I was supposed to go. That's what I planned" and the pain of that will never, ever, ever go away because the loss of that dream is a very very significant loss. But if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn't get to Italy, you many never be free to enjoy the very Special the very lovely things about Holland.

Well lately Chris has been going through a few temperamental issues. I remember when I thought the terrible 2's was going to last forever and in my case it was about 5 yrs before he got over that stage. I'm at wits end right now, Stressed to say the least. How do I continue seeing the beautiful, wonderful things about Holland? I don't know, I do know that I have very difficult decisions to make. Probably for me the most difficult ones, it's not easy it never has been but I have always seen the beauty in Holland and now I feel as though I am wearing horse blinders and can only see straight ahead and nothing else. I do know that right now I have to rely on God, to help me see Holland once again in all it's glory!

Here is a layout I created inspired by the poem:

You're such a doll

2010-05-04T08:41:00.000-07:00

I love this photo of my daughter Elisa, she is such a ham when it comes to the camera! She just loves being the center of attention and really why shouldn't she be, she is the baby here! LOL this is Elisa at her best. I created this layout for a challenge at Timeless Daydreams during NSD weekend. Here are some other projects I was able to finish!

So far

2010-05-02T06:41:00.000-07:00

it was a very productive weekend. I taught a class on Friday, went to a crop and created some layouts!!! Get those creative juices going. I am trying to complete the Challenges over at Timeless Daydreams, great inspiration. I am so happy to see new scrappers joining in! Remember ladies you have until Midnight tonight to complete your projects so that you can be entered in the Prize Drawing!!! Some Prima, Ranger Inc, bling woo hoo! Also if you haven't yet become a follower of Timeless Daydreams Blog, we will also be doing a drawing for some prima flowers!!!

Calgon take me away!!!

2010-04-30T06:08:00.001-07:00

It's just been one of those weeks, where it seems everything that can go wrong does!!!! So today I'm pretending I'm at a SPA with my favorite scented candles Strawberry Rhubarb, some Pinot Noir and Massager named Rico Suave massaging all of my aches and pains with natural oils! OH Can you picture it, yeah me too! LOL

Well let's get back to reality though, the only one good thing I did this week was go to a hair salon and do the works, yes colored, highlights, and haircut the cost $105. The time away from home Priceless.

Just a few announcements Timeless Daydreams is having it's first NSD Crop on Saturday May 1 and the celebration continues until Monday May 3 til Midnight EST. There will be Challenges Prizes, Raks, and games to play! Also we are giving away some Prima flowers on our
Timeless Daydreams Blog. Come and join us this weekend, we can't wait to see you all!!!!

funny little girl

2010-04-25T09:12:00.000-07:00

Let tell you the joys of being a mom to a 5 yr old at my age, it's fabulous. She makes us all laugh the things she does or says. Everyday you can expect something wonderful though each day too you can expect a little stress, but overall it's just fabulous. I had forgotten I taken these pics of Elisa on the last winter snow storm we had. She was getting ready for a snow day outside, and all of the sudden she says "Mommy I need goggles, I say Elisa you don't have goggles" she says "yes I do" and runs to where her beach toys are and then comes out with her swimming goggles. LMAO Had to take a picture of swimming goggles with winter gear. Used my kit from Timeless Daydreams

Manic Monday!!!

2010-04-19T15:30:00.000-07:00

So it was a great weekend, I was so anxious on Friday because I was going to meet with my scrappy sisters and work on a canvas. I have to say that the response was fabulous looking forward to seeing these ladies again in 2 weeks. On Saturday I went to a Cricut Swarm class, loved that I learned new techniques on my cricut looking forward to trying these out soon. On Sunday was my day to just relax, I was a little sick but at least I was relaxed.

So last week Rosann challenged me to create a Masculine layout, she says that she loves my work, but wanted to see a more Masculine layout. At first I thought OMG can I do it! Well I did and I loved it, I used Timeless Daydreams Tavern on the Green kit which includes Pink Paislee's Queen Bee line along with some Basic Grey's Origins line. Love this kit, can be used for unisex layouts. I also used some Helmar 450 Quick Dry and some Helmar squares Zap Dots I love the dimension of the stars in this layout!!! Oh and by the way when you are stuck and don't know where to start with a layout head on over to Creative Scrappers blog, new sketches posted Mondays

I can see clearly now

2010-04-13T05:57:00.000-07:00

As many of you know I love acrylic, and the many uses for it! I created this layout for Midnight Oil Scrapbook Designs. Let me just say that I love the out come of this layout. I had an extra sheet of acrylic from the Flipped out collection so I decided to use it on a layout. I stamped flourishes with Staz On ink love that stuff, works wonderful on acrylic I then added some pearls to give it a bling, and well lets not forget the flowers. I used Helmar 450 Quick Dry to adhere the acrylic to the cardstock and I also added it to the flowers. It's a simple layout, I wanted the acrylic to pop! thanks for looking!!!

OMG Tavern on the Green

2010-04-11T07:23:00.000-07:00

is the new kit over at Timeless Daydreams it is filled with Pink Paislee's Queen Bee, Basic Grey, Prima flowers lots of these, Prima bling, Kaisercraft and more. So hurry on over to Timeless Daydreams, kits are limited.

here is my layout

Remember that Canvas

2010-04-07T20:19:00.000-07:00

I said I was working on, well here it is I used Helmar's 450 Quick Dry Adhesive, OMG this stuff really dries quick and also clear. I added it to adhere the pattern paper to the canvas and viola it was on like magic. I also used it to roll my pattern papers loved this new technique and knew I had to try it and the Helmar 450 was perfect for this project.

I am so excited to be teaching a class next week on the canvas and for my some of my

Timeless Daydreams gals you are all going to love painting, rolling and using Helmar adhesive.

Products used: Martha Stewart calligraphy pen, Pink Paislee Bayberry cottage, Kaisercraft pearls, Ranger ink paint dabber, American crafts, Helmar 450 Quick dry, Making Memories trimmer, Bubble wrap, Prima flower

Spring Break over

2010-04-07T08:29:00.000-07:00

thank goodness, the bickering between my 16 yr old and my 5 yr old was driving me crazy. LOL. I think what I loved the best was not getting up so early to rush kids off to school, but I tell you this I was up at 5:50am this morning I was not playing those kids were out of here. LOL

On the bright side this past week my 5 yr old learned how to tie her shoes, can you see a layout coming... here are some pics