A Splash of Sherry

It's A Twofer

2011-07-08T06:56:00.000-07:00

Summer is here and that means lots to do. Some work and lots of fun. I have been getting some scrapbooking in. Just haven't been doing real good at blogging them. So today is a twofer. My first one...Jonathon and Stephani fought like crazy when they were growing up. But now they are good friends. I love the fact that they grew up to love each other even though I know they always have. My second one....Another successful year for Race 4 the Cure. I have more pics. of this day so there will be more layouts coming from it. But this one I had planned before Race Day. I had so much fun celebrating with these girls. Love you!! I keep saying I will be better at blogging and so I will say it again. "I will do better at blogging."

Never Alone

2011-05-10T23:31:00.001-07:00

During one of Stephani's Sr. photo shoots Megan snapped this picture of Steph and I. I found it today and I remember this time in our lives so well. Steph a Sr. and me still trying to get through all the circumstances of breast cancer. We went through alot together all through her high school yrs. But she was a trooper and stepped up to the challange of going to school playing volleyball, basketball, running track, working part time and helping take care of me. What alot for a young girl to deal with. And me I never missed a game and tried to stay strong and supportive to be right there with her through it all. I found the song "Never Alone" by Lady Antebellum when she was a Sr. It described our situation so well. Through it all we had each other. We had the song played at her wedding because no matter what changes life brings around or where life leads us we always have each other and are Never Alone! Thanks Megan for capturing this moment in time!!

These Are My People

2011-04-19T13:03:00.001-07:00

I have two boards in my Craft room full of pictures. Some are from Christmas cards I've gotten. Some are pictures that I have edited and then didnt like once they were printed but still couldn't part with them. One day I was sitting in my room and I looked around and thought there are two boards full of pictures of the people who are nearest and dearest to my heart!! Some friends, some family but each one special to me in their own way. I am so thankful to have each and every one of them in my life. They are my people and I love them all!!!

Mom and Me

2011-04-12T16:18:00.001-07:00

I don't get to see my Mom near as much as I would like. But when we do get to spend time together we always have the best time!! I have learned so much from her over the years. She is the strongest woman I know. I take it as a compliment when someone says "That sounds just like your Mom."

Leah

2011-04-07T21:39:00.001-07:00

Woo Hoo!!! Trying something new! Got my first kit from Studio Calico. Couldn't wait to start playing. Don't you just love those happy mail or in this case UPS days. Mixed and matched with some stuff I had in my stashes and some things made with my Slice and this is what I came up with. My little niece Leah lights up a room when she smiles. Her whole face lights up. Just wish I could see this little smile more often!!!

Merry Christmas

2011-04-06T09:26:00.000-07:00

When I first started Scrapbooking I had to go in sequence to how things happened. Well thank goodness I am over that. I now look through pictures and if I see one that hits me at that moment that I want to scrap I act on it. This pic. was taken on Christmas Day. These 3 drive me crazy trying to get a picture of them. I just wanted one picture where they were smiling sweetly. Well this is the best one I got. I guess I could look at it that my life would be so boring if they weren't silly all the time. I love them all. They keep me going!!

Lynchburg & Old #7

2011-03-30T18:59:00.001-07:00

If you ever find yourself in Southeast Tennessee make sure you take some time to go to Lynchburg and tour the Jack Daniels Distillery. It is pretty amazing how they still make Jack Daniels on the same property that it has been made for 100's of years. A small town of 316 set in the hills of Tennessee. It is sold world wide but made no where else in the world other than Lynchburg. They make 3 different kinds of Jack: The original Old #7 , Single Barrel and Gentleman Jack. Funny part of the whole thing: The county that Jack Daniels is made in is a dry county. So no free tastes. But still worth the time to take the tour!!

Just Me

2011-03-24T06:32:00.001-07:00

I don't know how many of you are lucky enough to have this:
This layout:

Inspired me to do this:

What was scrapbooking like before Becky Fleck and PageMaps? I don't even want to think about it. What great inspiration from both of her books. What a fun page to do. Thinking about what I am today and what I want to be or do in the future. I think in a couple of years I am going to update and do another Just Me page and see what has changed and what I am wishing for!!

Emotional Scrapping

2011-03-23T07:25:00.000-07:00

Wow. It's been awhile. Didn't realize how long it had really been. I have been an emotional scapper lately. We went on vacation again this winter. Down to Flordia to see Steve's parents and then to Alabama to see my family. On our way we went down through Tennessee. I have traveled that Interstate a million times. But this year was different. All the times before I had been going to see my Grandpa. This was the first time since his passing that I had been down that way. Such a sad moment to drive past the exit to his house. Then while in Alabama I got to see my Niece Derian. She is my sister Christy's daughter. She looks so much like my sister. Even though Christy is not here with us I feel every time I look at Derian I have a part of her with me. So now that I have all of that out of my system (well actually it never really goes away). But I am thankful for all the memories I have of the ones I love and the memories I will make in the future with the ones they left us!!! Never take a day for granted. We never know what tomorrow holds for us!!

Lovin the Country Life

2011-02-02T12:49:00.000-08:00

I am sooooo ready for summer. But I have to admit this snow storm was pretty impressive!!!

Stash

2011-01-30T12:22:00.000-08:00

I got a new camera. Another Sony cyber-shot. Love those little cameras. But this one has new things on it. One of which is Panoramic while you move the camera. I had so much fun playing with it yesterday while Steph was here scrapping. On the TSM blog they had a challange to use your stash. So nothing new on this page just stuff I have had for awhile. I have to admit for all of you country music people the whole time I was doing this page I was singing "Dig down deep find my stash". Although I am pretty sure Eric Church has a much different stash in mind.

Eagle

2011-01-30T09:57:00.001-08:00

New Years Day Jake looked outside and seen this Eagle sitting in one of our trees. We were all so excited. We don't live by water and I don't think I have ever seen an Eagle in our yard.

Hunting Season

2011-01-26T13:14:00.001-08:00

I couldn't have asked for a better hunting partner than Jonathon. We had the best times. This was my first year to go out and I had so much fun that I can't wait until next year when we can do it all over again. Getting to spend quality time with Jonathon is something I don't get to do alot. So I will always treasure our first Hunting Season together!

Why I Love You

2011-01-20T16:32:00.001-08:00

If you haven't already noticed it is impossible to get Jonathon to take a serious picture. So I decided to make the best out of a good picture of me and Steph and Jonathon being himself. My kids are the greatest gift from God. I love them both for many reasons. Some of them the same and some of them very different. But one thing is for sure they make things seem better even when it doesn't seem possible. I haven't done it yet but eventually I will get around to writing each of them their own special little note and tucking it inside the envelope for them to read someday.

Just The 5 Of Us

2011-01-06T12:12:00.000-08:00

I believe that Scrapbooking is about True Life. I try to make my pages have meaning. Unfortunately true life isn't always easy. Growing up the oldest of 5 kids wasn't always easy. We didn't have alot. We lived out in the country with no neighbors. But what we did have was eachother. We seldom fought. I know hard to believe but true. We found ways to entertain ourselves and enjoy spending time together. Sure there were disagreements but nothing to critical. But life has a way of throwing curve balls that we don't see coming and the day we lost my sister Christy was one of those curve balls. We were no longer 5. I found this picture and so much wish just for one day we could go back there and be Just The 5 Of us. Young and innocent and all of us together!!!!!

50 Yrs.

2011-01-02T13:55:00.001-08:00

Steve's Dad and another Fireman were honored last summer for being on the Fire Dept. for 50 yrs. What an accomplishment to dedicate 50 yrs. to voluneterring for your community.

Decorating the Tree

2010-12-28T13:21:00.001-08:00

Decorating the tree this year was alot different for us. Both kids are gone and Steve actually helped put the ornaments on. I had to take a picture of him because he usually puts the lights on and is done. I think he might have liked it alittle and hopefully will help next year too!!

Crazy @ Christmas

2010-12-26T12:33:00.001-08:00

Our Christmas Eve is always crazy. A few hot totties for the body and everyone is having a good time. All the excitment in the air and good food and time with family and friends. This year Stephani decided to take pictures of everyone making silly faces. We had so much fun laughing at eachother. We might have to do it every year. I hope you all had a great Christmas with whoever is hanging off of your tree!!!!

Frost & Snow

2010-12-24T08:36:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!! One more layout using my TSM kit. I love these two trees in my front yard. The way the sun comes through them in the morning. I have taken several pictures of them at different times of the year. I thought this paticular morning they looked espically beautiful with the frost and snow. Played around with the tint and loved them all so I decided to use them all. I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and a Wonderful New Year!!!!

Coffee and Cheesecake

2010-12-21T06:10:00.001-08:00

Did a quick layout with the TSM December kit. I love Cheesecake. Haven't found one yet that I didn't like. Recently had two chances to enjoy the guilty pleasure. One turtle and one death by chocolate. Unfortunately as with other things I have brought my daughter down with me. She is hooked too. One of our things we would like to do one of these days is go to a major bookstore on a snowy day and drink coffee and look at books for hours. Although we didn't get to stay for hours while we were Christmas shopping we did take the time to enjoy a cup of coffee and a slice of cheesecake at Barnes and Nobles. It doesn't show up well in the picture but one of the stamped images is the saying "Remember stressed spelled backwards is desserts." Sounds like a good motto to me!!

Winter In The Woods

2010-12-12T09:31:00.000-08:00

Although we didn't get many deer down during the recent shotgun season I did get some pretty pictures while out in the woods on stand. There is something peaceful about being in the woods after a fresh snow. I just stood there and looked around and thought what probably goes on in the woods when there is no one around.

Thanksgiving

2010-12-08T10:07:00.000-08:00

We were so happy to have our nephew Ben and his fiance Erika home from Texas for Thanksgiving. It was a suprise for most of the family. Steph and I knew it and had to keep it quiet. We had such a great time and got to know Erika better. I love the holidays and it is even better when family gets to enjoy it with you!!

November TSM

2010-12-04T05:04:00.001-08:00

After my month of gratefullness I finally got a layout done with my November TSM kit. When I seen this paper I knew I had the perfect pictures to go with it. When we take our motorcycle trips the one thing we don't do is worry about where we are going or when we are going to get there. It is so nice to be able to enjoy the trip and not have to rush and worry if we are behind schedule. I think everyone should try taking a no destination trip. Just see where the road leads you.

Thinking of You

2010-12-01T08:31:00.000-08:00

Today would have been my Grandpa's 95th birthday. It has been three years & I still miss him sooo much. He was the kindest, gentlest, humblest man I have ever known. I don't think there will ever be anyone else like him in my life. I love this picture Megan took of him. I have it framed, I have scrapped it and I am posting it again today because it just captures the person he was. Quiet and thoughtful just sitting back and enjoying the moment. There are so many things I could say about him. He was a wonderful man and he still is a big part of my life and how I wish I could be more like him!!!!!

Day 30: Grateful for a month of Gratefullness

2010-11-30T06:16:00.000-08:00

I made it. I did it. I posted each and every day the whole month of November something I was grateful for. Wow. First of all I would like to give a shout out to the girls over at TSM who came up with this idea. It was a great idea and what a way to make me stop and think each and every day I have something to be grateful for and something to give Thanks to God for. I am going to try to continue (not posting) to take time each day and pick one thing that I am grateful for that day. I have so many blessings in my life and unfortunately sometimes all the hustle and bustle espically at this time of the year takes over and I get caught up in not taking the time to enjoy and truely appreciate what it is all about. So for my last grateful post I am grateful for TSM and all they do to inspire and keep us going. Thanks girls!!!!!

Day 29: Grateful for Brandon

2010-11-29T06:18:00.000-08:00

Two years ago today was a very sad day for our family. Stephani's good friend Brandon lost his fight with testicular cancer. I got to know Brandon when they started Jr. High together. He made such a difference in our lives. He was fun, arnry, silly and loveable all at the same time. He found a lump when he was a freshman in High School but was to embarrased to say anything. He went through two years of sports pyhsicals without having the proper checks done. By the time he said something to his parents it was to late. He fought it for two years and there were so many times we were hopeful that he was going to be ok. And there were times that he was. But God needed others to become aware of this growing problem. My last time with Brandon was one night in Sept. I had to go at midnight and pick up the kids because they had a few problems. We had the chance to ride home just the two of us. He was so suprised that I was so willing to come and get them. I would have done anything I could to keep them safe. When he got out of the car that night the last thing he said to me was "I love you." I can still see him standing there and hear those words. That was a moment that I am so grateful I had with him. Now it is up to us to keep Brandon's memory alive and to make sure we spread the awareness of this problem. If you have boys make sure you talk to them about it. I know it is not an easy subject to approach but so very important. Brandon's parents did get a law passed in the state of Illinois. It is now being taught in the schools and Drs. have to do the proper physicals. That was Brandon's purpose. I am just so grateful that I had the chance to know him!!!! I love you and miss you everyday Brandon!!!!!

Day 28: Grateful For Leftovers

2010-11-28T19:22:00.000-08:00

We have a family tradition that whoever has the Thanksgiving Meal makes a casserole out of the leftovers and we all get together again and eat it. It is dressing, mashed potatoes, turkey and smothered in gravy. It is yummmy!!!! Tonight was the first night we could all get together again. So I had another night I didn't have to cook. Grateful for leftovers!!!!

Day 27: Grateful For My Time With No Regrets

2010-11-27T11:08:00.001-08:00

My title is a line from Kid Rock's new song "Born Free." I have listened to that song so many times. I love it. But this line really jumped out at me. How many of us are truely grateful for the time we have here on this earth. Do we look forward or do we spend our time in the past regretting and beating ourselves up over mistakes we have made. Life is to short to live with regrets. I think we need to live each day as the Lord blesses us and look forward to the gifts of the future. If we spend all our time living in the past we will not be able to live and enjoy the moments as they happen. So I am grateful for the time I have and the times I will have with no regrets.

Day 26: Grateful to Have Survived Black Friday

2010-11-26T14:24:00.000-08:00

Ok so I braved it this year and went out shopping. I guess not really the die hard that started at midnight and stayed out all night. But I left home at 6:30 and went to Steph's. I didn't want to drive my truck to the stores because of trying to park and didn't want to get it dinged up. Soooo I decided to put the first scratch/dent in it myself in Steph's driveway. Not a good way to start the day. But it could have been alot worse. That's what I keep telling myself. Anyway we went on about our shopping and we did find some good deals and got some Christmas shopping done. That is a good feeling to have it at least started. I am grateful to be back home worn out but nice and quiet away from the crowds.

Day 25: Grateful for Good Food and Good Drinks

2010-11-25T18:49:00.000-08:00

I love the holidays. All the good food and good time with family. I am normally not a wine drinker but my sister-in-law had some pretty good stuff today. I am grateful for a full tummy and a few good drinks and great time with family.

Day 24: Grateful for Time To Spend With My Son

2010-11-24T06:37:00.000-08:00

24 yrs. ago today I was blessed with a happy, healthy 8 lbs. 11 oz. bouncing baby boy. That day my life was changed forever. He has brought me joy, happiness and more pride than I ever could have imagined. This past weekend we got to spend some good quaility time in the blind while deer hunting. I know your supposed to be quiet and watch and listen. But we talked, we laughed and we even took alittle nap. I get to spend alot of time with Stephani but don't get much alone time with Jonathon. I am grateful for that time we got to be together and I can't wait until next weekend when we get to do it all again. Happy Birthday Jonathon. I"ll love you forever!!!!!!

Day : Grateful for Suprises

2010-11-23T15:00:00.000-08:00

I don't have a picture today. But just got a phone call that my Nephew and his fiance are here from Texas. So they will be coming to my house around 6:30 and the rest of the family are coming out for pizza. Steve's parents have no idea why they are coming so I can't wait to see their faces. It will be a good time.

Grateful 22: Grateful for Music

2010-11-22T13:57:00.001-08:00

I LOVE Music. Country and Rock and nothing in between. But music for me can make me feel better when I need a lift or make me cry when I need to let it out. Just fits my moods. I
don't buy many cd's anymore thanks to I Tunes but there are certain ones I just have to have the whole cd. My new favorite is Kid Rock's newest cd Born Free. It is awesome!!!!! I also bought Dierks Bentley's latest one Up On The Ridge. Honestly haven't listened to it yet but I will get to it. I am grateful to have something that will adjust to me and however I feel for that day!!

Day 21: Grateful for Awareness

2010-11-21T13:15:00.001-08:00

A very good friend of Stephani's Brandon passed away a couple of years ago to Testicular Cancer. Since then they have started doing a memory walk to try to raise awareness of Testicular Cancer. Today was the 2nd Annual walk for Brandon. I am so grateful for all the people that showed up today to do the walk and bring attention to this disease.

Day 20: Grateful for Warm Clothes

2010-11-20T15:20:00.001-08:00

As I said yesterday I am a total summer girl. When it comes to clothes I am all about shorts, tank tops and no shoes and socks. My motto has always been less is best. But as I am expanding my horizons in the great outdoors on these brisk November mornings I am finding that More is better. It has been all about long johns, sweat shirts, coats, warm socks and boots. So today I am very grateful for warm clothes!!

Day 19: Grateful for Nature

2010-11-19T19:24:00.001-08:00

I love to be outside but not really much in the winter. I am more of a summer girl. But I decided to embrace it this year and go out deer hunting. I don't have a hunting license or tags so I can only walk along but I have to say I had a great time today. No one got anything but I did get to see a big buck in the distance. I am grateful that I am able to go out and enjoy nature.

Day 18: Grateful for Good Deals

2010-11-18T15:50:00.001-08:00

One thing Stephani and I like to do is SHOP. I am so grateful for the time we get to spend together and the fact that we have such a special bond. But what makes it even better is when we find some great deals. I love Tim Holtz and I hit the jackpot today when I stumbled across several of his items on clearance. Now I got to get creative with them!!

Day 17: Grateful for Comfy Chair

2010-11-17T21:14:00.000-08:00

Everyone has a favorite chair. My chair and I however have an extra special bond. My chair has gotten me through chemo, surgeries and just plain not feeling good. There were times I was in this chair for days. I even had to sleep in it because I couldn't lay flat on my back. I am so grateful for a comfortable place to get me through some rough times. And how could I forget my soft blanket that a good friend made for me.

Day 16: Grateful for washer and dryer

2010-11-16T14:02:00.001-08:00

During this month of Gratefullness not only am I grateful for the obvious things. I have tried to look around and be grateful for things that we every day take for granted. Growing up my mom didn't always have a washer and dryer. That meant trips to the laundermat and sometimes bringing wet clothes home in the summer and hanging them on the line. Having 5 children only complicated the task more. There were alot of clothes, not to mention she had to drag us along with her. But she always managed to keep us in clean clothes. Sometimes when I am doing laundry I think about her. The day she got her brand new washer and dryer which by the way was only a couple of years ago I cried for her. She so deserved it. I am grateful to be able to walk down my basement stairs and do laundry in the comfort of my own home.

Day 15: Grateful for Cousins who Become Friends

2010-11-15T13:44:00.001-08:00

I am so lucky to have a special bond with several of my cousins. They all have different reasons why they are special to me. My cousin Cindy is someone who I laugh with, cry with, travel with and complain to when things get to me. She is always there when I need someone to talk to and I am always here for her. We have been through alot together and we probably know each other better than anyone else. Our moms are sisters and we have grown up watching the special bond that they have and I think we have that special bond between the two of us. Friends have come and gone in my life but she has always been here. We were born cousins but life made us friends!!!!

Day 14: Grateful for Sundays

2010-11-14T17:27:00.000-08:00

I love Sundays. No need to get up and hurry around in the mornings. I usually go to church. Come home put on my comfy clothes and grab a bite to eat. Then catch a football game or a nascar race. Or in other words take a little nap. I am grateful for a chance to just relax and get ready to start a new week.

Day 13: Grateful for my Hubby

2010-11-13T05:33:00.000-08:00

You may wonder why it has taken me 13 days to be grateful for my hubby. The reason I decided to wait and post it today is because today is our 28th Anniversary. I met Steve when I was 15. We got married the same year I graduated from high school. Our marriage hasn't always been easy but it has been worth it. He is a wonderful provider who allowed me to stay home and raise our kids, I was able to go to all of their school functions no matter what time of day or how far. There were times we didn't get to see much of him because he was working all hours to give us that privilage. We bought his family business 10 yrs. ago and he and our son work together to make sure everyone's toliets flush and their wells pump water. He is a farmer. And also the Fire Chief for our local Fire Dept. There are many nights he drags himself in the house to eat supper and take a warm shower and not long after he hits his chair he is out like a light. I am so grateful for my hard working husband and I look forward to another 28 yrs.

Day 12: Grateful for a place to call Home

2010-11-12T13:39:00.000-08:00

We are lucky to live in a house that has been in Steve's family for almost 100 yrs. We moved to the farm in 1990 and we raised both of our kids here. We have room to roam and wide open spaces outside. I am a complete country girl and am so grateful that I have been able to call this home!!!!

Day 11: Grateful to be an American

2010-11-11T15:39:00.001-08:00

I am so grateful to have been born in a country that is free and we have all the liberties that we do. To be able to go where we want, worship where we want, read what we want. So many things that we take for granted each and every day. Today being Veteran's Day I hope each of us take the time to thank a Veteran or at least think of them and all that they do so that we can be grateful Americans!!!

Day 10: Grateful for Good Friends

2010-11-10T15:10:00.000-08:00

I met my husband when I was 15 yrs. old. At the same time I met his two best friends. We have been lucky enough to remain friends all these yrs. We have went on vacations together, raised our kids together and made so many fun memories. They have been here for us through all times good and bad. I am so grateful to have friends that have lasted all these yrs. This is a picture of them with their two boys and Steve this past summer on one of our many vacations. I am looking forward to many more with them.

Day 9: Grateful For My Bed

2010-11-09T06:22:00.000-08:00

My bed is nothing fancy. It has the cheapest brass headbroad we could find and afford when we bought it twenty plus yrs. ago. It doesn't have fancy pillows, sheets and blankets or spread. But after my day of stubborness and determination yesterday with my aching back from all the bending and crawling around on the floor when I laid my head down on my pillow in my nice soft warm bed I didn't care what it looked like. I was grateful to have a place to find comfort for my aching body. Just goes to show it doesn't always matter what something looks if it brings you comfort and contentment!!!

Day 8: Grateful for Stubborness and Determination

2010-11-08T15:55:00.001-08:00

I recently got a gift card from Target. So I decided to get something for my Stampin, Scrappin room. Found this cube organizer and a couple of drawer units. Thought they would be perfect and I could put them together myself. Well perfect they may be but easy to put together they are not. It took me 3 hrs. to just get this much done. I have 3 more drawer units to put together. But I am determined to do it myself which I will. I'm not quite sure which side of my family I get my stubborness & determination from and honestly it is probably from both sides. But whoever it came from I am grateful that they passed it to me!!

Day 7: Grateful for Those serving in the Military

2010-11-07T19:20:00.000-08:00

I have always known that my Grandpa had served in W.W. 2. But what I didn't know until his death in August was that he was a decorated veteran. He never told any of us that he had earned the bronze star and other medals while serving. He had lost all of them on his way home from the war. Upon his death and after seeing his discharge papers my cousins who also served in the Army got his bronze star replaced for him and were able to pin it on him during his funeral service. They were also able to get the Patriot Guard to escort him to the cemetary and the Honor Guard for his graveside service. I have to say I have always been proud to be his Granddaughter but I couldn't have been prouder that day. And was so happy that he got the recognition that he deserved but had never asked for. So in his honor and memory I am grateful today and every day for all the veterans who have served our country and all the active soldiers serving today. Our freedom is because of their sacrifices.

Day 6: Grateful for Morning Coffee

2010-11-06T05:47:00.001-07:00

As I said in my previous post I never used to be much of a morning person. I hated coffee so that was no help and then.....AHHHH...I discovered Starbucks. My love affair with coffee had begun. Now mind you I come from a looooonnng line of coffee drinkers so I had always felt left out of the whole coffee thing. Then.....omg it got even better. They came out with flavored cream....so I could have my chocolate and drink it too. So since then my mornings have started looking better because I look forward to that first taste of chocolate coffee. And that makes me a Grateful person and my family appreciates it too!!

Day 5: Grateful for Country Mornings

2010-11-05T06:39:00.001-07:00

Today I am grateful for country mornings! I never used to be much of a morning person but as I get older I have started to appreciate the newness of each day. Living in the country is best place I could imagine being. The stillness and guietness is comforting and calming to me.

Day 4: Grateful for Bible Study

2010-11-04T09:10:00.001-07:00

Today I am grateful for my Thursday morning bible study. We are currently studying the book of Exodus. I feel so blessed to be able to spend my Thursdays with my fellow Christian women and spending time learning the word of God.

A Daughter is....

2010-11-03T12:55:00.001-07:00

Thought I would do a quick layout with the pic. of Stephani and I.

Day 3: I am Grateful For My Children!!

2010-11-03T07:20:00.000-07:00

Today I am grateful that God allowed me to be a Mother to the two most awesome kids!! First he blessed me with a son who has grown into an amazing young man. He is a hard worker, doing his plumbing apprenticeship with his Dad, a Fireman, and an Amazing Christian and Preacher whenever he gets the chance. Second I was blessed with a daughter who has brought so much sunshine to my life. She is currently going to college to be a nurse while working at the hospital and being a wife. She some days has her hands full and still she pushes on. She is turning into a strong and amazing woman. But most of all she is my Best Friend!!! I can't imagine life without them and they are the reason why at times when it seemed things were to hard that I pushed on. I love you both and you both complete me!!!!

Grateful For Rockin The Attitude

2010-11-02T09:39:00.001-07:00

Day 2: Today I am grateful for the special times I get to spend with Zachery. Although both of my kids are grown and have their own places I still get to be a part of grade school fun. My life was blessed by this little guy who I have watched since he was 3 mos. old. I am still able to be a part of school functions and parties which I thought would be over when my kids left grade school. He def. pulled this costume off. He is supposed to be a punk rocker and his quote to me the day of the party was "I like all the attention." And he told one of the other Mom's "You just gotta know what the girls want." Thank you Zachery for always making me smile!!!

I am grateful for Survival!!

2010-11-01T15:26:00.001-07:00

I decided to participate in a challange over at TSM. It is 30 days of gratefullness. Each day you post a picture of something you are grateful for and then link it to their blog. At the end of the month they are having a big prize giveaway. So with October just ending and it having been Breast Cancer Awareness month I decided to make my first entry "Survival." It has been 5 yrs. ago last May that I found out I had breast cancer. So much has happened in those 5 yrs. and I am happy to say that I am a "Survivor."

Halloween Fun

2010-10-26T17:00:00.001-07:00

My Aunt gave me some pictures a couple of weeks ago. I came across this one and with Halloween just around the corner I thought I would do a quick layout with it. Stephani wanted to be a witch so we painted her face green and when she looked at herself in the mirror she started crying because she scared herself. I had to wash most of it off of her face. You would of thought Jonathon's mask would have scared her more.

Picture Perfect

2010-10-21T10:10:00.000-07:00

I have always said I have a rich man's family. A boy and a girl. But there was a time that I didn't think I would have a girl. My family has a ton of girls. Steve's family on the other hand has very few. So I wouldn't even let myself think I would ever have a girl and that was o.k. I love my son. But imagine how thrilled I was when I did have my little girl. She has been a blessing to our lives. Sometimes a little stinker but always a blessing. I used the TSM October kit for this layout.

If You Can't Beat Em

2010-10-15T10:36:00.001-07:00

I don't get very many days with Jake and Zach anymore. So I love it when they get to come over. Jonathon was here for lunch the last time they were here. What a fun time we had. I was trying to get them to take at least a couple of "normal" pictures. Until I finally realized this was their normal. You know how boys are. So I decided what the heck might as well join in the fun.

My Puppy Is......

2010-10-08T12:28:00.001-07:00

Ok so I have always liked having a dog. Living in the country you just need one. But this little puppy (which by the way is not so little anymore) has just won my heart. She is always with me no matter where I go outside. Very rarely does she leave my side. Oh and for the record we don't really drink together but she found that can on one of our walks and carried it half way home. Couldn't resist the picture.

On My Walk...

2010-09-19T11:56:00.001-07:00

I have been trying to go on a walk every day as long as the weather is decent. I love walking down the country gravel roads that I live on. There are so many different things to see. I can't imagine ever living anywhere else besides the country. This is made with more goodies from the TSM September kit.

Wisconsin

2010-09-16T17:08:00.001-07:00

Finally playing with my September TSM kit. I did this layout for a sketch challange they are having this week on their blog. We went on a motorcycle trip to Wisconsin this summer. We love being able to go for rides when we can and it's nice to have good friends who love it as much as we do.

Happy 1st Birthday

2010-09-08T09:47:00.001-07:00

Just got my September kit from TSM. But I had to finish this layout from the August kit first. It has been laying on my desk for weeks now. Jonathon Paul was named after one of the greatest men in my life. My Grandpa Castor. This picture was taken of them on his 1st birthday. He has grown into such a fine young man and I know he is proud of his name and I know Grandpa would be proud of him.

Time To Play

2010-08-12T19:59:00.001-07:00

Once again more pictures and memories of my Grandparents. There was a pass through window from the kitchen into the dining room. I think each one of their grandkids had their picture taken looking through it. Jonathon was no exception. Grandma always took the time to play a little peek a boo.

Hello Grandma

2010-08-11T08:28:00.001-07:00

Love, love, love this August kit from TSM. It is so bright and fun. Got me going through some old pics. I found this one of Jonathon when he was 1 1/2 talking to Grandma Castor on the phone. He talked to her almost every day. I feel so blessed that both of my children got to have my Grandparents be a part of their lives. So many special memories.

Time To Plant

2010-08-07T21:35:00.001-07:00

Still playing with Photo Explosion. One of Steph's friends was over yesterday and showed me all kinds of tricks to do with it. I have been playing ever since. So much fun. I took some pics. this spring at planting time and then a few the other day of the corn. Thought they would be good ones to mix the black and white with color. And of course my Tim Holtz paper.

Good Times With Good Friends

2010-08-05T11:11:00.000-07:00

I have had Photo Explosion on my comp. for quite awhile. Still haven't figured it all out. But I was playing around with it this morning and doctored up this pic. I loved the way it turned out and knew that it would look great with my new Tim Holtz paper and distressing ink. And of course my new addiction misting.

Happy 20th Birthday

2010-08-04T18:16:00.000-07:00

My baby girl turned 20 this year. Not quite sure when she grew up but it sure seemed to happen fast. At least for me it did. I am sure if you asked her it hasn't happened soon enough.

My New BFF

2010-08-04T10:04:00.000-07:00

I am always looking through magazines and online looking for inspriation. Well yesterday I found a new BFF. It is a book from Creating Keepsakes(one of my fav. mags.). It has over 700 scrapbook pages and tips. I know over 700. Iwas so excited. I have browsed through it quickly and I will be spending alot more time with this little treasure. Better yet the front cover had a little damage to it so I got alittle discount off the price.

Wild Cat Den (Misting Challange)

2010-08-03T16:21:00.001-07:00

Took a little motorcycle ride to Wild Cat Den a couple of weeks ago. It's a nice little park outside of Muscatine. Took a couple of pictures and decided to antique them and use them for the misting challange over at TSM. Thanks Megan for the challange. I now have a new addiction.

Peek A Boo

2010-08-02T08:06:00.001-07:00

Had the privilage to watch my cousins little twin girls about a week ago. I got so many cute pics. of them. These were a couple of my favs. I had so much fun with them. The day went by really fast. Their names (Kelsie & Kylie) on either side of the pics. didn't show up very well when I took the pic. of the page.

Hunter Ray

2010-07-29T14:05:00.001-07:00

Now its Hunter's turn. Just love these kiddos. As I was doing Hunter's I decided to make it a two page layout. Kind of the same but not the same. Again this is with stuff from the TSM kit and stuff from some others and again my Sassafrass stash.

A Day With J

2010-07-29T09:25:00.001-07:00

I am once again scrapping my cousins little girl. I've been pretty lucky this summer to spend quite a bit of time with her and her cute kids. I have some pics. of her son that were taken the same day and then I watched the Twins on Sat. so I got some great pics. of them. I just love scrapping pics. of kids. So many fun things to choose from. This is a potpourri of supplies. Some things from the July TSM kit and some things from other TSM kits and some Sassafras from my stash.

These Are The Days

2010-07-20T13:11:00.001-07:00

I got to go to Tennessee last week to spend a couple of days with my Grandpa. He is 94. We had a great time listening to him tell stories of when he was a kid, when he was dating my Grandma and so many other things he told us. We laughed so hard because he is so animated when he tells his stories. I have always loved to listen to him. I brought back quite a few to share and a few new phrases too. These are days I will never forget.

Wildflowers

2010-07-19T07:03:00.001-07:00

I came home one night to one of the best suprises ever. My 23 yr. old son had picked me a bouquet of wild flowers and left them on my kitchen table with a note. Those are the things that touch my heart and I will never forget.

Camp Ground

2010-07-05T16:35:00.001-07:00

We recently went on a short little day ride on our motorcycle. We went down to a place where Steve's cousin has a cabin. Took a couple of pictures of the tall grass and the little lake there.

My Little Boy

2010-06-24T07:25:00.001-07:00

For all of you who have been blessed with a son or sons I hope they always bring you the same pride and joy that my son has always brought me. He will be 24 yrs. old in Nov. but he will always be "My Little Boy." I couldn't be prouder of the man he is turning into and I love him more every day.

Please Forgive Me

2010-06-09T06:50:00.000-07:00

I know one thing it is a good thing puppies are cute. This little stinker chews, bites, runs through flower beds. But she's just a puppy right. The key is surviving that puppy stage and trying to teach them not to do those things. And I thought kids were tough. This paticular day she got into trouble for beating up my hosta. Couldn't resist a picture after she got in trouble. She knew she was bad. The journaling reads"You have children. You raise them. They get married or buy a house and move out. Suddenly you find yourself all alone. What do you do? You get a puppy. Lucy is for the most part a ray of sunshine in my day. But this paticular day she found herself in trouble for jumping, laying, chewing, whatever she could think to do to my hosta. I got this picture after she had gotten in trouble. Who could resist that face and stay mad for long. she looks like she is begging for forgiveness."

Celebrating 5 Years!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-06-08T08:09:00.001-07:00

5 years ago I found myself in a place I had never really thought I would be. I was told I had breast cancer and needed to have a mastectomy and chemo. That began a long 3 yrs. of surgeries, chemo, more surgeries and just all around worry and stress. But by the Grace of God and the support of my friends and family I am here to say I am a survivor. In May of this year I officially became a survivor. So to celebrate some of my family and I went out to a Bandits game "Paint the Park Pink." I have to admit there are times I forget that I even had cancer. But that is only because of God's blessing to make me healthy again and the love I have recieved from everyone. Yes I fought the fight but I never would have won it alone.

Blog Hop

2010-06-05T05:24:00.000-07:00

Today is a blog hop over at The Story Matters. Go check it out and see where it leads you. Should be lots of fun and inspiration.

Lucy

2010-05-30T14:16:00.001-07:00

So Friday was my birthday. All I wanted was a Chocolate lab. We lost our other dog about 3 months ago. And living in the country I just think we have to have a dog. Steve would be quite content without one. But I have always had one. So we looked in the paper & checked online for weeks. Found one only to have it just sold right before I called. So as I was sitting in the Drs.office Friday(nice way to spend my b-day huh) I was looking through the classifieds. Found a # that had chocolate labs. Little did I know that the very same morning Steve had checked online and seen the same #. By the time I got home he had called and gotten me my Chocolate lab. I was so excited. So yesterday we went and picked her up. She is adorable and just what I wanted. We had a chocolate lab years ago. I love them. So I would like to introduce you to Lucy.

Sweet Dreams

2010-05-23T11:10:00.001-07:00

First of all I would like to say Thanks to my cousins for such a fun day and letting me hang out with them and get all these awesome pictures to scrap. There is a new challange over at TSM. Only use pattern paper. For a paper addict like me I was ready to jump up and down. I had used so much of my kit on other projects that I had to use something from My Mind's Eye for the background paper.

2 Cool

2010-05-22T13:47:00.001-07:00

And now it is the boys turn. Didn't get as many of the boys. They were off and running around. But I did get them to look cool for me. Sketch challange over at TSM. If you haven't already you should go check it out. Made with stuff from their kit and a few things out of my stash.

Fifi and J

2010-05-15T10:56:00.001-07:00

Here are two of my two cousins little cuties. What would I scrap if I couldn't take pics of other people's children. Someday I will have grandchildren to scrap. But until then. Again I am playing with some stuff from the TSM kit. I am loving this one. So much fun and color. Megan has been talking about inspiration so I included a pic of the magazine page I got my inspiration from.

Inspiration:

Don't Look J.....

2010-05-12T12:14:00.001-07:00

This is a layout of my cousin's little girl. Jayden is a little stinker when it comes to taking pictures. Not cooperative at first. But when we said Don't look. Well then that's a different story. This layout is for the Inspiration Challange over at TSM. I might have gotten a little carried away with the Inspiration part. But I kept thinking oh another circle might look cute here and here. And well you know how it goes. I guess I am a more is better scrapper.

Moments

2010-04-27T15:13:00.001-07:00

Today is Stephani's 20th birthday. It seems like only yesterday that they were this age. Jonathon was 6 and Stephani was 2. I know the title is probably overused but it is soooo true. Time goes by so fast and in reality we don't remember enough moments because we are to busy to take the time to appreciate it while it is happening. To be honest I don't remember taking this picture but if I could go back I would take the time to really take in the moment and hold onto it as long as I could. So for all of you who might read this who have small children and it seems like the days go on forever and you just want to run away sometimes. Just stop and take a moment and take it all in. It will be over before you know it.

Keys From The Past

2010-04-24T16:00:00.000-07:00

Here is more Vintage. I love all the old photos I am fortunate to have of my family on both my Mother and Father's sides. This is my Great, Great Grandfather on my Father's side. He looks like he is really thinking about something and when Stephani and I were looking at the picture I said I wonder what he is thinking and her response was "Damn Depression." The date on the back of the pic. is 1926 so it was a little before the Depression but I am sure times were hard. I have to give a big thanks to Megan Klauer for giving me a little lesson on the paper folding.

Happy Baby Girl

2010-04-21T17:10:00.000-07:00

Alot of times at night when my hubby is watching something on t.v. that I don't really care about I look through magazines. Last night while I was looking through one of them I seen a layout that I could hardly wait and try today. So here is a layout of my sweet baby niece. And a picture of my inspiration below. I couldn't keep the glare off of the magazine page but I think I got a fairly good picture.

My Inspiration:

Zach's Bad Day

2010-04-20T16:23:00.000-07:00

And one more using a few things from the TSM kit and a Megan Klauer feltie. FYI if you take your kids to Monkey Joes make them wear pants. Those blow up things will give you burns if you slide down them wrong. I took the boys there over Spring Break and Zach had an awful day. The note he wrote me to say he was sorry for being grouchy was so cute though. I had to scrap it.

Sweet Southern Comfort

2010-04-19T15:38:00.000-07:00

Playing around some more with my TSM April kit. Having grown up in the south it was alot different than living in the midwest. Although I love the midwest there are things I really miss about the south. The laid back slower pace. The landscape is alot different. And of course the winters are alot better. There is just something that you feel when you are there.

Puppy Love

2010-04-18T13:33:00.001-07:00

This is my submission for the sketch challange over at TSM using stuff from the April kit. These are Steph's two little puppies. They are so cute. Both of these little puppies have had Parvo which is usually deadly to dogs. But she nursed them both back to health. So that makes them even more special.

Just a couple

2010-04-12T13:12:00.001-07:00

Here are a couple of layouts I've done since I got the room done. It is so great to be able to scrap and have natural light. I just love it. I am finding it hard to get other things done. The first layout is made with stuff from a TSM Kit. It is a picture of my Grandma Hall when she was about 18 taken with a friend. She is the one on the right. The second layout is from my Aunt's b-day. A year ago we went to a Scrapaganza crop night. We had alot of fun. The girls there are great and I am looking forward to being able to do it again.

New Space

2010-04-09T06:28:00.001-07:00

I moved my stampin', scrappin' craft room this week. From the basement to the second floor. This was my daughter's room prior to her getting married. An empty room with windows and sunshine. Couldn't resist. About half way through I started thinking "What the heck was I thinking?" But I kept going and finally got it all done yesterday afternoon. I can barely walk now because my calves hurt so bad but what an awesome room I have as a result. The hurt will go away and I will be able to enjoy this room for a long time. Hopefully Steph will come home and scrap with me too.

Before:

After:

~Die Cuts~

2010-03-29T08:38:00.000-07:00

I did this layout for a challange on the Scrapaganza blog. What product can you not live without. This was a tough decision for me. I have so many things I am in love with. But I decided on die cuts. Whether they are pre-made or I make them on my Slice I love die cuts.

God's Beauty

2010-03-27T15:46:00.001-07:00

This layout is for a challange over on The Story Matters blog. It was to use 4 photos and stuff from the March kit. I love my flowers and take pictures every year. With Spring finally here it makes me really ready to get out there and dig in the dirt and watch those little flowers poke through the ground. Steve's Grandma once said only God could make a flower. How true is that. Only God can make something so pretty.

Funny Faces

2010-03-21T19:15:00.001-07:00

I had water in my basement last week which is where my craft room is. Luckily I have everything pretty much up off the floor so nothing got wet but it did put a stop to my scrappin for several days. I did manage to get this page done tonight for the sketch challange over at The Story Matters blog.

The Perfect Pair

2010-03-09T10:58:00.001-08:00

I found some time today to play with my kit from The Story Matters. This is the first kit club I've been in so I am having fun looking forward to the next month. Loved the paper with the pears and knew I had the perfect picture for it. Steve and I recently took our first vacation alone in over 20 yrs. I snapped this picture while we were on a park bench in Savanah, Georgia.

Simply Sweet

2010-03-05T13:47:00.001-08:00

And now for my other great niece that I got to meet on my vacation. She is simply the happiest, sweetest baby I have ever seen. In two days I never heard her cry once. She was such a joy to spend time with.

Missing You

2010-03-04T12:56:00.000-08:00

One of the highlights of my recent vacation was getting to see my great niece for the first time. We had alot of fun and the time went by entirely to fast. I love coming home after vacation but it was so hard to leave this little one behind.

Be All You Can Be

2010-02-10T15:30:00.001-08:00

I recieved this picture of my Grandpa in the mail the other day from my Mom. It was taken while he was serving in the Army during World War 2 in Germany. I knew as soon as I seen it I was going to use some of the vintage papers in The Story Matters kit. And then to make it even better there is a sketch challange on their blog right now. I tried the distressing powder. Not quite sure I did it right. I think I need 101 on that.

I Will Love You Forever

2010-02-09T15:35:00.001-08:00

I am in challange mode today. This layout is for a challange on Moments Recorded blog. The challange was about love and to scrap the one you love. Steve and I have been married for 27 yrs. and it was a memorable day when our daughter Stephani got married last Sept. in the same church we had.