New Table and Chairs ( sort of )......Ok, my husband is known for his shopping ( that's a nice way of saying he is a shop-a-holic ). Anyway, this morning he calls me on the cell to say he found a table and chair set for the kitchen at a garage sale and he wants me to come and look at it. To make a long story short I am now the proud new owner of a dinette table and two chairs. They are pretty beat up, but with any luck when we re-finish them they will look like the pieces in the pictures above ( and it only cost $45.00 ). I have two similar chairs already and as much as I love my big square table that we have had for ages, its always been to big for the space in my kitchen. Now I will have a nice round table for the bay window and 4 chairs instead of two. And I will be one step closer to the French country style I hope to one day have in my kitchen. The smaller picture ( the one with stained doors ) is the effect I am hoping to achieve and if all goes well this will be the final finish for our kitchen cabinets (one day).

Crop-A-Dile

Ok, I have asked myself many times if this is a tool that I need ( or even want ). Well, yesterday I visited my LSS store and saw some large chipboard shapes that would make great mini albums ( especially for the quote book I want to do ). Anyway, this morning I got up with the Crop-A-Dile on my mine and being as this is probably the only thing that will cut through several layers of chipboard its now become a must have item. Just need to wait for another M's coupon.

Things In My Scraproom That Make Me Happy


I got up early this morning while everyone was still in bed ( its my favorite time of the morning, when the whole house is peaceful and still ) and pulled out my issue of Septembers CK. Lisa B had done an article on things in her scraproom that make her happy. I started looking around to see what things in my room really speak to me and give me that warm fuzzy feeling ( only another scrapbook person would understand this ). And this is what I came up with.

On a really bad days I turn on my CD player, light a candle and just immerse myself into a project and leave the outside world outside where it really belongs.

Of course being a Disneyqueen I surround myself with lots of Disney memorabilia (courtesy of my husband and children) and whenever I look up and see Mickey I think about our many trips to the "world" and it just brings a smile to my face. Then this week I found this really cool sticker with my name written out with some serious bling. Being an April girl nothing brings me more happiness then a couple of diamonds (smile). So I marked my M's bag with it, doesn't it look cute ? I am like Lisa, I love my room so choosing a few things was pretty tough. Most of my scrapbook supplies are not out in the open which works great for me. You have already seen my "comfy" chair, and scrapbook pages on the wall . Of course my all time favorite thing is my word frames I altered from Target. Who wouldn't love sitting in a room designed specifically for dreaming and creating. I knew I would be a scrapbooker for the moment I went to my first CM class. I have always like to create different things and of course my favorite thing to do was to bring back loads of pictures and video from our Disney vacations. Scrapbooking just seemed like the next logical step. Then I purchased my first CM cutting system and Tools became my all time favorite thing about scrapping. I will still spend money on a scrapbook tool before shopping for clothing ( yes, I know that is sick ). My mom doesn't get the whole scrapping thing, and a lot of my friends think its just a "Cyndi" thing. Thank goodness I have met loads of women on-line that "get it" and "get me". This hobby has become a lifestyle and its changed my though process on a lot of things. The most valuable thing it has taught me is to live each day as if I were creating a memory for a lifetime. Hopefully, its something I will be able to pass down to my girls through my pictures and scrapbook pages.

Still Scrapping Along !!!

And yes that is a ruler attached to my page. We were asked in a challenge to create a layout using a school supply. I didn't want to use notebook paper so while Marc and I were in Office Depot monday, I picked up this ruler ( in pink of course ) because I already had an idea in my head anyway. Used some epoxy stickers, letter stickers and rub-ons from the dollar store, HS flower, and of course DCWV paper from my new stack. Inked the edges and my page was complete. Did it this morning in record time.

One last thing. I went into Target today and came out with this really cute white and black polka dotted headband. Didn't know what I would use it for, but I knew I would think of something eventually. So this is the end results. As soon as I find a journal I like I am going to use this to keep it closed. I added some MM label stickers, some flowers and a brad to the band. As soon as I can find the right shade of pink or black flowers to put underneath the white flowers I will be finished. Isn't it cute? Hubby said the sticker fits me to a tee. Wonder who did all of that spoiling in the first place?

Simple Layouts

Well I Did It

One more thing crossed off my checklist of things to do. This is a big one though. I finally submitted one of my pages to CK Magazine. Boy am I glad to have that monkey off my back. You would not believe what it took to get to this day. And even though its highly unlikely I will get chosen on my first time around ( wouldn't it be cool if it did happen though ?), I am so proud of myself for doing it. I have another one to work on, and this first one really taught me a lot about being prepared. And the great thing is that I loved the finished product, so if I don't get a call I will post here. I love sharing my layouts so its been really hard to hold my pages back. So I have been working on a few that are just for sharing and I will post them tonight after my meeting at church. Right now I am off to eat dinner ( thanks to TJ I don't have to cook ) and get ready for a meeting that involves another passion of mine. We are going to try and get our churches drama ministry off the ground and the meeting tonight has been a dream of mine for sometime, which has been to have a drama workshop. So please pray for me that this also will turn out to be a dream that comes true.

The Lord Loves a Cheerful Giver ( and I love being a cheerful shopper ).

Last of the stash was spent. I'm officially a HS fan that actually owns some of her product. And my new favorite thing is ....clear stamps. Seem's like I can't get enough of them. I love the Art Warehouse stuff I picked up, I see lots more trips to AC Moore with coupons. And of course no scrapbooking shopping spree would be complete without a couple of packs of DCWV paper stacks. I really should be a DT member for them. Of course I ended up a Target at the dollar spot and came away with some cute stuff. At the end of the day the Dollar Tree yielded 2 more big stamps ( a heart and a butterfly...where was that thing last week when I was struggling with my "Butterfly in the Sky" page ) ? I had fun shopping with the money from my "love offering" and when I paid tithes on Sunday I danced to the basket. Marc was the only one who knew and understood. It felt good to give from my own pocket. Hopefully it will not be the last time ( or at least not far between ).

Disney Crocs !

Ok, my daughters think Crocs are the ugliest things, and most of the time I would have to agree ( although the more I see them the more they have sort of grown on me ). I have actually been keeping my eye's out for some aqua colored ones to wear around the house as slippers and to the mail box ( especially when its raining ). This morning a friend posted that Disney along with Crocs will be bringing a line out in the fall ( or early winter ). Can you say.....Cute as a button? Of course now that they are Disney Crocs, I have to have them (lol). The girls will have a fit and won't want to be seen in public with me...but that's fine. I bet they will fit right in on our next trip to Disney. So guess what's been added to my Christmas wish list? And of course by now you know the saying...."Hey, they don't call me the Disney Queen for nothin " !

Answering the Call

My Next Project will be a quote book based on "God's Promises".

Hopefully before the week is out I can decide on what type of album, and how many pages or quotes I will use. I plan to decorate the outside of the album, and hopefully post a picture by the end of the week. Right now I am working on a Scrapbook Planner and if all goes well I will have my pages completed for submission to a scrapbook magazine ( my first , if you don't count the two DT Guest spots I submitted pages for ). Its due on the 6th, so I really need to get cracking. I have an idea in my head just need to put it to paper. If you would like to create a quote book about "God's Promises " try here and here. I got this idea while sitting in Sunday school this past week. The scripture lesson was Genesis 9:1 - 15, and one of the suggestions in our book was to create a journal filled with our favorite quotes about God's Promises as a daily reminder. Of course you know me, I immediately thought ...Scrapbook! Then it occurred to me that this could be another class project. It will be interesting to see what lesson I learn this time around. By the way I got even more confirmation the other day that I am headed in the right direction as far as "Treasured Creations" is concerned. My girlfriend asked me when I would finally start teaching classes on scrapbooking ( her mom has been after me for the last year and a half to come to their church and teach the women some techniques ). I promised her that I would be up and running by the first of the year ( from my lips to God's ears ). I told her I would probably be calling her soon about being a hostess for my "mock" class. She didn't say no. I realize that faithbooks may not be the most trendy form of scrapbooking, but I do realize that this is the route God is leading me towards. And since I am not good at being disobedient ( I hated getting in trouble as a child...so I tried my best to stay out of trouble-notice I said tried. I did not always succeed ) I guess its time I answered the call. I wanted to give a special shout out to a friend who emailed me about how my blog has touched her. I don't have a counter so I do not know how often my blog gets hits. Frankly I am not sure that I would want to know anyway, but if my words touch just one person then I feel as if I am doing what God intended me to do when he created me. And the added bonus is that I get to do it through scrapbooking !

Day 31 ( 31 Day Gratitude Journal )

ME Being the Real Me !!!!

Wow, its hard to believe its been 31 days ( give or take a few...lol). I have learned so much about myself. When I started this journey I doubted whether I could stay consistent, but actually this journal could not have come at a better time ( funny how God knows just what you need ). In just a month my family's life has changed ( in a drastic way ), and frankly if it had not been for this small corner of my world I don't know that I would have survived the challenge. And I don't mean the 31 Day Challenge. I feel that I have grown in so many ways. I feel confident, and sure of the path my life is taking. You could say that for the first time that I can ever remember I have set goals for myself that I not only feel are obtainable but I feel that if I just reach out and grab for them they "WILL" come true. That has surprised me, but I think it would especially surprise my family. I'm not sure they have ever seen that side of me. And just think it all begin because I decided to "Create" an Attitude of Gratitude!!!!

Day 30 ( 31 Day Challenge )

And The Blessings Keep Coming and Coming

Yesterday was a good day all around. The sun was shining and it seemed like I kept receiving blessings wherever I turned. As many of you know my goals for 2007 are pretty big ( at least in the life of this old girl ). I seem to be getting confirmation each day that my plan is a good plan and that I am headed in the right direction. Even the Sunday school lesson this morning gave me the inspiration for my next project. Yesterday morning I was talking to my cousin Shelly ( the one that got me started on this crazy rollercoaster ride of album making ) and she told me how proud she was of me ( apparently my family and friends really do read my blogs and not just look at the pictures ). She had seen my list of goals and she had been impressed ( I will be too if I can actually pull some of them off...lol). Anyway to make a long story short, she and I both gave up being CMC around the same time and we still have product just laying around. My plan is to use mine in my new venture and one of the products I really love from Cm are their scrapbook totes and carts. This past month they announced they were discontinuing the original cases, carts and totes and coming out with a new line. I had made up my mind that I would save to purchase the old rolling cart, but before that happened I heard through the grapevine that they were no longer available. Needless to say I was not a happy scrapper...and you know what they say about an unhappy scrapper...if they are not happy neither is anyone else. I knew Shelly had a cart just sitting around ( as a school administrator she just does not have the time to work on albums as much as before ), but I also knew it had been a gift and I did not think she would want to part with it. But because the carts were all gone I figured I had nothing to lose if I asked her about buying it from her, she hesitated a moment so I told her to think about it...there was still time ( I am anticipating that the new business will not be fully up and running until the first of the year. I am determined to do it right this time. Anyway....I digress ( sorry for the long post, you are a good one if you are still reading ) before I could change the subject she told me that she had wanted to ask me about doing her family's Disney's album, so in exchange for completing her album guess what I get ? Yep, her MM Cart ! I had given up on that idea all together and had planned to take what was left of my "love offering" money and get the rolling cart from Michaels to go with my new tote bag. Instead I spent yesterday re-organizing a few things including the box that my tools use to sit in and now my stickers have a brand new space and Monday morning I get to hit AC Moore with 50% off coupon in hand and pick up more scrapbook stuff ! See I told you it does not take much to make this old girl happy.

And the Blessings Keep Coming

Nicki has been making changes to her car, and as a result of her "tinking" her ride, I am now the recipient of a massage pad for my scrapbook chair. This thing felt good when I came home from church today ! Now if only Marc would hook the TV up, I would never leave this space ( maybe that's the reason why he hasn't done it yet...lol).

Speaking of blessings...look at what I received in the mail from a very nice lady in Canada ( that I have never met ). She had some CM products she did not want or need anymore and she knew I still used some of their albums ( actually all of my Disney Albums are Creative Memories ). So Saturday morning ( after Ernesto had cleared away ) I received a very large package in the mail filled with page refill, page protectors, and some cute flower embellishments ( we all know how much I love using flowers ) and MM 12x12 cardstock mats. There was even a beautiful card from her that I will cherish forever. It was a great way to start the day. Thank you Jenny Poo. My girls and I are making you something special and I will send it as soon as I can.

Day 28 and 29 ( 31 Day Challenge )

Hurricane Ernesto.......What a Difference A Day Makes !

Today ( well technically it was yesterday...I just did not have blogging or journaling about my 31 day adventure on my mind.....but a storm/hurricane tends to make you forget to take the time to blog ) I am grateful to be alive ! I am also grateful that all of my family is doing well. Where my mom lives two people died when their home was hit by a tree. We had heard the reports the night before that the storm was headed our way, but because we thought it was just a typical tropical storm we let it go and went to bed. For the full story read my personal blog. It was not as bad as it could have been, but less just say the next time I will pay more attention to the weather report. Thank you Lord for bringing us through the storm. The picture on the left was taken today, the ones on the right yesterday. What a difference a day makes! Maybe we should be approaching life that way. The old folks use to say a storm came through to wash away all of the bad stuff ( or something along those lines ), then the next day when the sun came out you had a fresh new day in which to begin again. Today I am thankful for the fresh new day.

Note: Noticed how I combined the two days blessings? You never know when or where your blessings might come from, or if they will come one after the other. Just be ready to receive them when they do come.

Day 27th ( 31 Day Challenge )

Completed Layouts

Yesterday I actually completed two layouts that I was having issues with ( mostly from me over analyzing ). There is nothing worse for a scrapbooker then loosing one's mojo (lol). I also posted a layout with pictures of my daughter preparing for her trip to Nashville to see my favorite gospel singer..Cece Winan. I'm getting this gratitude journal album updated as fast as I can. Of course now you add in the pages I am trying to submit to magazines , less just say I will be sitting at this desk a while (lol). But who can complain about scrapbooking all day.

Day 26th ( 31 Day Challenge )

Back To School ( Finally ) !!!






















My girls on their first day of school. Now granted college classes started back last week, but with all of the financial aid fiasco going on the last thing the girls felt like doing was taking a first day of class picture ( come to think about it the last thing on my mind was even pulling out a camera). Boy, what a difference a week makes. Thank you Lord for working it all out. So here they are my senior girl Quisha ( Master's classes should be a breeze after all of this ) and Nicki my sophomore ( crossing my fingers that by January she is a junior...another mess up at the University that needs straightening out ). Its become a tradition to take there picture at the front door before they step out into the world. Looking back that front door has become a portal into the life of my girls and my boy. I can recall the first time they went to school from our new home, the many proms, ring dance, C-Unit get togethers, first day of college for all three of them, praise dance performances, drama plays, first jobs, second jobs,....you name it and my children have used this door first before entering into life's everyday adventures. I know the day will come when they won't step out from this particular door too often , but when they do it will be for new adventures and one day my grandchildren will stand where their parents once stood and the cycle will began again.

Day 25 ( 31 Day Challenge )

Day of Rest

Sunday was a day of rest. Marc and I dressed alike in Black and White for service hey, labor day is next week...no more white suits). I wore my new hat. Afterwards we went to I-Hop for dinner ( just the two of us ). Its been a long tome since we have had any couples time. That evening I hung out with my girls and we spent time creating. There is no better way to spend the day.

Day 26 ( 31 Day Challenge )


Girl's Gotta Shop

Monday I got a nice little surprise in the mail. So what's a girl to do but go out and spend a little money!!!! Had a blast. Having a coupon on hand doesn't hurt either.

Day 27th ( 31 Day Challenge)

Good Times

Today was a good day, Nicki's appeal letter was accepted and she got her financial aid and got back in her classes. I finished a layout for a Guest DT member and turned it in. So here's hoping. I also created a little something for myself. A planner cover for next year. I have the feeling 2007 will be a good year. Even 2006 is nothing to sneeze at. I did lots of traveling and spent lots of time with the family. My goodness who can complain after spending 2 weeks in Hawaii, a week visiting Atlanta and Birmingham, and even a day at Busch Gardens ( my 2nd favorite park ).

Completely off topic I can't believe I am only 4 days away from ending my 31 Day challenge. I promise to post layouts as soon as possible.

Michael's Bag

I did not want to get this bag ( really I didn't ). I have been resisting it even though everyone I know has been buying them. Its all the rage on the scrapbookboards. This week I went into M's to get some scrapbook supplies and I finally got to see the bag in person. I still resisted. Then I kept dreaming about the darn thing, so I thought ...what the heck, might as well ( especially after finding out my M's would take my Joannes 40 % off coupon ). It was only 12.00, and then to top it off I got my hands on a little spending money....so I figure the scrap God's were looking out for me. So I took the plunge. Even as I was buying it I still wasn't sure I would keep it. Oh my goodness, I love this bag! It holds all of my tools, and I still have room for more stuff. This afternoon my friend Peggy called me and wants to set up some scrap time at the LSS. Let's just say this little baby will be getting a work out in the next few weeks. So all you ladies out there who have been straddling the fence on whether to pluck a few dollars down for it or not I say go for it. And to the ladies at www.loveisinthedetails.com, www.twopeasinabucket.com, www.scrapshare.com and even www.magictrips.com I just want to say thanks for putting the pressure on. I don't regret buying it at all.

Day 24 ( 31 Day Challenge )

Hanging with the Girls!

I love hanging with my girls. Can I just say I have the best daughters around. They don't mind staying out all night with mom at a lock-in with nearly 300 other women. Teresa did a great job. "T", I'm proud of you. You put together a great program. There was lots to do, lots to eat and plenty of things to keep you going all night. Did I happen to mention the fact that I also have some great girlfriends ? The highlight of the night for me was singing Karaoke ( "When A Man Loves A Women") with Joyce, Teresa, and Nicki. We rocked it if I do say so myself. I wish the picture had come out a little better. Special thanks to the women at the Mount and the Women of Issachar ( especially the group leaders and volunteers). Last night we laughed, cried and just plain cut up. It was worth it just to see my daughters relaxing and having fun.

Nicki at 4 am
Quisha at 4 am Me at 4 am !
We had a blast! So much so that we never went to bed! Of course I will pay the consequence for that today. And poor Nicki had to go to work at 9 am. There were so many activities to choose from. I want to send a special shout out to the "EatUmUp" ladies. I did aerobics, karaoke, set in on a good "marriage" chat, had a mini facial and won a great prize ( may try to use my new pedicure set this evening ). And thanks to a very special angel I even got a new hat at the Church Lady Hat Exchange and some shoes at the Heavenly High Heels/Passionate Praise Pumps/Soul Saving Sling Exchange ( thanks Annette ). Nicki and Quisha both participated in the pajama contest , aerobics, karaoke and set in on their first single ladies chat ( bet that was interesting). Well, I have had two catnaps, off to surf a bit and then go down for the count again. Have a great day ladies.

Oh, one last thing...if you are a mom (of any age), take it from this old pro...take some time for yourself. I talked to a lady last night that doesn't even have the time to read a book ( and her kids are grown). Mom's need to take care of themselves so that they can take care of other's. With all of my daily stress issues...I learned early on that I needed mommy time. And thankfully I have a husband who is very supportive of that ( some even call me spoiled )...but hey this 42 year old girl does not have a grey hair in sight. And if I could resist Lay's potato chips my bp would probably stay down also. Its never to early to start...so take some time out for ...YOU.

Ok, this was long ( will have to edit for my scrap page). I'm really out of here now.

Day 23 ( 31 Day Challenge )

Have Bed Will Travel

I have this friend named Teresa whom I can never seem to say no too. Once again she has talked me into coming to her church for a women's lock-in. This year I am dragging the girls along with me. But that is not what I am grateful for. If you look below there is a picture of a big pillow in a plastic bag. Its actually one of those chairs that folds out to make a bed. This is what I will be sleeping on tonight and for that I am grateful. This old body at 42 years old just can't take the floor anymore (lOl). You should have seen the contraptions those ladies pulled out last year at the sleep-over. I will post pictures tomorrow after I get a decent nap and a shower. Well, off to finish getting ready. It should be an interesting night...if I know Teresa there will be lots of surprises. Last year the girl walked around in her pj's with cold cream on her face, a wig with big rollers. May have to go dig that picture out and post it. The way I look at it she owes me. But now that I think about it Jesus once told a man to take up his bed and walk....maybe there is a message in that for me and the girls ( especially after the week we have had).

My bed for the evening. Thank goodness I did not throw this thing away. It seems like every time I turn around my friend Teresa has me sleeping on the floor somewhere.

As you can see my backpack is empty !

Quisha bags are packed and she is ready for the lock-in. Just need to get myself together.

My daughter is crazy. She came in this morning to tell me to bring my camera outside to take a picture of her putting a seat cover in the back seat of her car ( only Nicki would be able to get her whole self into the trunk ! ) She cleaned it out for our trip to the lock in tonight.

Have a great Friday night everyone. V, hope you guys are having a great crop. Adrienne hope you and your friend are having a blast. Mom hope you are enjoying Myrtle Beach and SIS can't wait to see more pictures from your vacation in Maryland.

Day 22 ( 31 Day Challenge )

Quotes.....Gotta Love Them!

Quotes!!!! Don't you just love them? This morning when I got up to check out the boards I saw a post from my friend Carol who became a IRW consultant a few months ago. She already has 6 recruits ! Way to go Carol. She also posted a great quote....."Find what inspires you and stay in that light. Find what works for you and keep doing it over and over. " I think after I finish the 31 Day Gratitude Challenge I am going to do a quote book. Maybe it will even become another class. I love the inspiration you can find on-line, especially scrapbook sites. There are a great group of women and men in this industry. I am so glad I found this hobby, that has become my passion and which has changed my life in so many ways. This did not start out being a gratitude entry, but its funny where you can find gratitude if you just take the time to stop, look and listen. I think Marc has even gotten it...he told me this morning to get cracking on those layouts ( of course he is seeing the dollar potential right now..but that's ok, at least now I have an excuse to stay in my scraproom...lol). Saw lots of new calls on the Pub Calls blog this morning so I have no excuses. There is plenty out there to choose from.....so I better get cracking! I need to stay in the light and just keep doing it over and over.

Day 21 Picture

Day 21 ( 31 Day Challenge )

Daily Inspiration

Promise Yourself

* To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
* To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet.
* To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.
* To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
* To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.
* To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.

* To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
* To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.
* To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.
* To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.

Thanks Adrienne....I needed this poem today ( actually my entire family needed it so I printed out a copy for each of them). So today I am giving thanks for inspiration provided via bloggers. And the funny thing is that not long after I found this poem on Adriennes blog I found another one here ( search for the post about "My Perfect Life, Your Perfect Life" ) and here ( Melody did it again ). Thanks ladies ( and God...because I know the message came through them from you). Sometimes you get the right information at just the right time just when you need it most.

Day 20 ( 31 Day Challenge )

Second Chance

Ok, can I just say that I am so glad that God gives us second chances ( because we sure don't ) ? Yesterday was a bad day, heck who am I kidding its been a bad couple of months what with Marc loosing his job, and then getting a new job that keeps him away from home way to much for my liking ( yes, I actually like having my husband around ), then this week Nicki's financial aid was denied ( thank goodness we have been able to keep her in at least one class...and hopefully next semester and summer school next year will take care of the rest )....lets just say there is nothing that can hurt me more then seeing my baby crying. Not sure what's going on with that but we are coping and I praying that some day ( very soon ) I will get the message in all of this. But anyway I digress....Second Chances......this morning I got up and the day just didn't seem to be getting any better and it hit me that with so much going on yesterday ( besides the financial aid stuff, meetings at church, people with attitudes, you know the everyday stuff ? ) I had not taken the time to get into an "attitude of gratitude". Granted I had an attitude, but not the type that was pleasing in God's sight ( or anyone else's for that matter ). Needless to say I was not very happy with myself ( or anyone within my path ). Then I remembered the reason for this challenge....to challenge myself (lol). So instead of getting mad for straying off track, I have decided to just get over "Cyndi" and give myself a second chance. In the grand scheme of things this is a small thing...so why get my knickers in a bunch over things I can't control and just move my tuckers (sp) in gear and move forward ? So I'm looking at the reflection in the mirror, really seeing me as I really am and based on what I see...this old girl needs to pull herself up , dust herself off and get back in the game. Will I get sidetracked again? Probably. Should I let that get me down ? No. If I never learn to forgive and forget ( even if that forgiviness is for myself ), how can I expect it from other's ?

Completely Off Topic....But I Love, Love, Love this Bag !

Sis, I hope you see this entry. Most evenings I check out my favorite blogs ( thank goodness someone introduced me to bloglines, its been a lifesaver ). Anyway, I was poking around and found this bag on Katherine Brooks website. Its cute as a button, but its $50.00 and right now that is most certaintly not in the budget ! So I am hoping my very talented sister can make me a similar one. But if you would like to get this exact bag just go to this site. She has some great fabrics to choose from. She also sells jewelry, belts, and blankets. Maybe when things pick up I can order a few things. Well, I'm out of here, my bed is calling my name. I will post my gratitude journal entry in the morning.

This picture should be under the Day 17 and 18.... "Family Ties" , but for some reason that I yet to figure out ( can you tell blogger is frustrating me ? ) its not working. So I am trying it in its own space. Let's see what happens ! The picture was taken last homecoming and is the front of my home church. Also if you have noticed I still have not placed any new layouts on-line. The reason for it is because I am trying to submit some of my pages for publication and a lot of the calls require that you send pages that have not been posted on-line (I'm kicking myself for posting the first couple of ones, because they were my favorite). Most of them are due in by mid September, so if nothing happens by the end of September I will sart to post them again. Here's hoping that it will be a while before I do that (smile).

Day 19 ( 31 Day Challenge )

Butterfly in the Sky

Did you know that a butterfly is a symbol of transformation and change? Saturday a butterfly landed on my head not long after we entered the gates at Busch Gardens. My sister was able to capture a picture of it before it spread its wings and took flight. It was not until today when I was feeling down and lost that I thought about the butterfly. It's funny how when you are feeling your most venerable that someone or something steps in to remind you that bad days don't last forever, and that joy is waiting around the corner. Perhaps the butterfly showed up to remind me that I too can transform. If you think about how a caterpillar starts out...Woven inside its cocoon, waiting to emerge and explore the world. Then in the final transformation she emerges a beautiful colorful butterfly. Maybe at this moment I am still in my cocoon, and with time and patience (on my part) someday soon I will emerge, spread my wings and fly.

Busch Gardens Pictures

Cousin Shelly and Me
Quisha
Nicki and her friend Carlos
Cousins Trice and Jen
Nephew Alex and my Mom
My sister Cori and me
More Busch Gardens and Homecoming Pictures here and here.

Day 17 and 18 ( 31 Day Challenge )

Family Ties

This weekend we had a family reunion (of sorts). Each year (on the 3rd Sunday in August) my mom's church has a homecoming celebration. People come from all over ( Philly, Jersey, Washington DC, etc ) back to the homeplace where our Christian upbringing began. Even my Christian roots started at the little small church back (and I mean way back in the woods) in the woods of Virginia. I was baptized there by my godfather who was the pastor at the time. Marc and I got married not far from there at my grandparents home in the front yard in almost the same exact spot that my mom and my stepfather were married 33 years ago. As a little girl I recall being taught Sunday School by my great Aunt Julia, listening to my cousins sing in the choir (some still do). I remember homecomings pass where the church overflowed with old family members, where you met new cousins and long lost relatives you never knew existed. I remember the August heat, rain showers, the big fans that use to sit in the corners of the church to combat the heat. I remember waiting for the second service to start and sneaking out of the balcony with my little cousins so that we could walk down the road a piece to sit at Aunt sweethearts home with the big cousins.

We started the weekend off by climbing into my Uncles RV to make the trip back home. My uncle parked his RV at my mom's home for the weekend. Some of us stayed with my mom, some stayed in a nearby hotel and some stayed with my cousin Pat. On Saturday morning a bunch of us went to Busch Gardens in Williamsburg for the day. Sunday morning we went to church for morning service and that afternoon family members poured in from various places to celebrate years of tradition. Also that weekend my great Uncle Moses celebrated his 94th birthday. My sister and I talk all of the time about how blessed we are to have such strong family ties. In today's society its not always cool to be seen with your family, as a matter of fact many family members do not speak to each other and have not spoken for years. I thank God everyday that I am part of a family that may disagree from time to time, but who would never let the walls divide them so much that they wouldn't come together to celebrate in Christian love. See...the family that prays together really can stay together!

Day 16 ( 31 Day Challenge )

Music Soothes The Soul

When you are having a bad day, pop your favorite CD in the CD player and let it soothe your soul. As far back as I can remember music has been a part of my family's make-up. Gospel music, soul music, a little jazz and even some country. As a child I recall dancing with my mom in the livingroom to some of her favorite tunes. I started singing in the choir in middle school and stayed with it throughout high school and even now I sing on the choir at my church. When I am having a bad day I put a little music on and let it sooth my soul. When I'm having a good day music just adds the little extra something. My husband has been known to have his gospel music playing in the car so loud that we can't stand it. TJ listens to oriental songs all day and can usually be seen with a CD bag in hand with earphones on. The girls like me incorporate music into their lives through chorus and dance. I think music is the one thing that can bring most people together of any nationality. I can't imagine a world without music and for that I am grateful.

Day 15 ( 31 Day Challenge )

Women of Influence

Yesterday evening I started reflecting back on how blessed I have been during my lifetime by such a great group of women. So today I want to say thank you to all of the women who have ever crossed my path and have influenced me and helped to mold me into the person that I am today.

Thank you......Mommy,Grandma Berta,Grandma Lea, Aunt Julia, Cousin Pat, Cousin Barb, Aunt Maryland , Aunt Marion, Aunt Sweetheart, Aunt Reba, Cousin Laura, my Mother-in-law Roberta, my Sister Cori , Michelle ( sister/cousin ), Mrs. J ( In Germany ), Evonna ( Nicki's Oklahoma Godmother ) , my Daughters Nicki and Quisha, Aunt Jo, and Gran Renie, WIT Wives Wiley, Teresa, Pam, Greta, Sonia, Cynthia, Ruth, Neicy, Sandra, Joyce, Diane, Lula, Cassandra, Dress Sale Buddies Sheila, Tamra, Priscilla, Peggy, Aunt Otelia, Sister-in-Law Marsha, Ms. Dorothy, Mama Up, Disney Buddies Vanessa, Maggie, Sondra, PattyT, Laura, Kelli, Julianne, Kim, Pauline, PammyJo, Mt. Bethel Mama Cat, Pat P, Chico, Ms. Amanda, and Ms. Annie and the list goes on and on ( many more then I can ever name ). I am just grateful today for....long-time friendships, sisterhood, mamma's and bestgirlfriends.

Commercial Break

I needed a break today, just to do something silly for myself. So because its my own challenge and I make the rules.....we are pausing for a commercial break. See you back here tomorrow at the same place at the same time. So for the fun of it I am tagging a few of my friends :

Answer the following question and then post it at your blog. Pass it on to one other person and have them do the same thing.

10 Random Thing About Me ( You May or May Not Know ) .

1) When I was younger I wanted to be an airline stewardess.

2) I refuse to walk barefoot anywhere ( including in the house ). So the picture above is very rare.

3) I have never traveled anywhere completely alone in my entire 42 years of life.

4) I am Philly girl born and bred ( well at least born ).

5) I hate seafood ( can't even stand the smell ).

6) I graduated from the Barbizon School of Fashion Merchandising ( not sure it even exist anymore ).

7) I am a pasta addict.

8) I love the water but can't swim a lick ( and I hate sand in my toes ) !

9) I am a list maker by nature ( you should see how many notebooks I can go through in a week ).

10) I go into Disney withdrawal if I don't visit WDW at least once every two years.

Of course you know this will end up being a scrapbook page.

Day 14 ( 31 Day Challenge )

Oprah Say's

"What God intended for you goes far beyond anything you can ever imagine. "

That's much needed info when you start to doubt the path you are taking is the right one. Its been a couple of days since I posted any layouts. Not because I haven't wanted to , and not because I have been busy with the wedding. I just can't seem to get my groove back. In part I think its because I started to question whether my work was good enough to submit. When I start to look at pages that other's submit I say ..." I can do that", and then fear sets in. But this morning a friend emailed me to let me know she was proud of me for stepping up and finally submitting some of my pages ( thanks Kelli ). She even said she had been praying about it! Then Oprah came on this afternoon and a lady talked about pursuing her acting dreams after watching an Oprah episode and remembering each time she went up for a part the quote from Oprah. A few months ago I received the same quote via email from Oprah's daily inspiration newsletter. I think I even mentioned it in one of my blog entries. But like most sayings you hear , you make note of it at the time and move on. Today God reminded me who was in charge........and just imagine what can happen when you let him lead ( and you actually follow ) ?

Day 13 ( 31 Day Challenge )

Day of Rest !

Sunday was a blessing because for the first time in days I did not rush ( to do anything ). I even played hooky from Sunday School ! I sat in the back of the church with Quisha ( Nicki spent the night with Jen, she deserved it after chauffeuring me around for the last three days ) enjoyed the service, then went home and propped my feet up awhile. I fixed dinner ( first time I have done that on Sunday in a long time ) ate a big scoop of icecream, surfed the web a bit, and went to bed at a decent hour. I'd say it was a day well spent. No rushing here and there, a little time spent with my Lord, good food ( if do say so myself ), pleasant company, and nearly 8 hours of uninterrupted beauty sleep. What more can a girl ask for ?

Day 12 ( 31 Day Challenge )

Cinderella's ( Pink ) Slippers ....... A Girl's Bestfriend !

Last night I came home and crawled into my comfortable bed, grateful that it was waiting for me after a long day. Tonight I came home grateful for my ratty old pink slippers. After many years of coordinating weddings the one great tip I have for any party planner is wear comfortable shoes! Today I wore my pink slippers while setting up the reception hall . My plan was to to change into my white mules for the wedding ceremony and then back into my slippers after the reception ( breaking down decorations is not as fun or glamorous as putting them up ). Those pink slippers ended up being my lifesaver . From the moment I hit the church I hit the ground running. Mostly trying to get people to there spot and back. A few times I ran around the church (literally) between the brides room and that of the groom trying to keep them informed of what was going on while they waited for the ceremony to start. At the end of the service Nicki and I got in the car and headed to the reception site to receive guest as they came in. The opportunity to change shoes never came! But the gratitude came at the end of the day after standing on my feet for nearly 6 hours. My feet felt wonderful ! Now, I can't say the same for most of the ladies there that day. I can recall at least 5 women say they wish they had thought to bring a comfortable pair of shoes with them because now their feet were killing them. I would look down at my feet, look back up again and just smile. And they say diamonds are a girls bestfriend (smile).