A Modern Chick's Scrappy World

Catching up . . .

2010-08-15T09:13:00.004-04:00

I've been busy creating layouts, but haven't posted any in a while . . . Sabrina will question me and I'll be prompted to do a blog post . . .

This month at PolkaDotPlum, I'm hosting the 8/11 Lyric challenge. I picked Faith Hill's song Sunshine and Summertime . . . please play along!

At Scrapable, I'm hosting the 8/10 Focus on Me challenge. This month's focus is on the irony in our lives . . . I always thought it was ironic that God blessed me with two boys when I came from a family of all girls . . . how about you?

And some random layouts . . . (click on the layout to find the gallery post with credits!)

And a layout with the photos . . .

2010-08-01T13:13:00.004-04:00

I used Scrapable's new August Collab - Country Cottage for this layout. The colors are so shabby chic summery . . . I'm in love with this kit!

Sea Isle City

2010-08-01T12:30:00.003-04:00

I asked Sabrina (my best friend), to share some photos with me of her recent trip to Sea Isle City, NJ. She has family there and visits frequently. I processed a couple and thought I'd share.

You know scrapbook layouts will follow shortly!

Template Crazy . . .

2010-07-26T18:24:00.003-04:00

. . . that's what I am! I'm hosting a total of four template challenges this month!

Here is the last one . . . over at Scrapable.net. I used ScrapShana's new kit bundle Fly Me to The Moon. Isn't that just the funnest name for a kit?!!

There have been a lot of changes in my life lately and I'm finding myself rather reflective . . . I staged this photo several years ago to show the size of the tree . . . I thought it was perfect to use for a layout about keeping perspective in my life. While things seem so overwhelming right now, I need to keep it in perspective . . .

Another FREE template challenge!

2010-07-09T19:43:00.003-04:00

I'm also hosting two template challenges this month at http://www.scrapable.net/. I really like creating and using templates . . . it's one of my secrets to creating so many layouts each month . . . so pop on over to the Template Challenge at Scrapable, download the free template and play along!

I used Dream Big Design's new kit Defiant for this layout about Bradley. A few years ago he received a guitar for Christmas . . . ohhhhh was he in love with it . . . he practiced and played, with dreams of being a rock star and now it sits (smile).

Lots of new layouts . . .

2010-07-07T22:43:00.006-04:00

I'm hosting the Template Challenge at PolkaDotPlum this week . . . so hope on over and grab this free template!

Here is a layout I made with it - using a photo Bradley took of me! My boy is so talented. I like this photo! I used Vicki Feemster new kit Eternally - get it here!

and one more using this great kit . . . I know, I know . . . I've scrapped these photos of Bradley before, but I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE them. This is so my Bradley!

And couple more of my favorite subject:

This features another of Vicki's kit . . . Botanical Bliss . . . it is just so fresh and summery and fun!

And Sabrina, just to encourage you to take LOTS of photos while you are in Sea Isle City this week . . . I can create layouts like these for you (said in a sing songy voice!). I used Modern June's new kit Beach Bound is available at www.Scrapable.net!

My boys . . .

2010-06-20T12:33:00.002-04:00

Jamie has a new girlfriend. Introducing Sam . . .

Another of Bradley.

Sadly, this weekend we moved Knox into his new home. But it's with Denita and her family. They have lots of room and attention for him. He was in serious sensory overload between the horses and chickens and Book the cat, who is a small lion let me tell you! That cat will definitely keep this 120 pound Rottweiler in line!! LOL

Template Challenge at PolkaDotPlum!

2010-06-16T07:10:00.002-04:00

Guess what? I'm hosting the this week's template challenge at PolkaDotPlum!! Come on over and download the free template and play along!

I used Lauren and Amy's new kit . . . Rocky Top Sweetheart, just released today to create this layout from the template.

Enjoy!

Layouts of Bradley

2010-06-12T23:08:00.005-04:00

I've been spending a lot of time stalking the challenge boards at http://www.scrapable.net/. They have a great participating prize . . . a $5.00 store gift certificate when you earn 20 points. And I've had not trouble earning one two months in a row now!!

Bradley has been the focus of a lot of my layouts recently. Some from when he was younger, but most recent photos. There's been so many photo opps . . . his first semi-formal school dance, 8th Grade Graduation and just spending some quality time in the backyard with the camera.

His latest thing has been to take the camera from me and make me model for him. It feels awkward, but he is really talented! Watch for a layout of me soon with photos by Bradley!

A scrapolicious weekend . . .

2010-05-23T18:06:00.006-04:00

My friend Sabrina was home all weekend without kids . . . she has four . . . yeah, it was a big deal! Thinking of you Sabrina . . . (smile). I'm guessing she did some scrapbooking too. The Quote Challenge at Scrapable.net required us to make a layout using this quote: If friends were flowers, I'd pick you. Since Sabrina is my best friend . . .

Hope you like it!

I got this fabulous kit called One Fine Day from My Creative Pixels with a gift certificate from Scrapable.net for winning Layout of the Week and went to town . . . I made three layouts already with it . . . I'm absolutely in love with this kit . . . I love the word strips, the colors, the elements . . . just everything about it. And with all the layouts I've made for the Scrapable.net challenges . . . I'm well on my way to earning another $5.00 store gift certificate just for play along!

This layout I did for the Scraplift Challenge . . . remember those photos I took of Chrystal, Joe and baby Savannah . . . you knew I'd be using them for layouts right? Before long, I'll have a little gift scrapbook for Chrystal!

This layout was for the 1, 2, 3 Challenge . . . they give you a list of required items to use. In this case, it was:

1. Photo

2. Leaves or leafy springs.

3. Flowers

4. Circles or round elements.

5. Other items.

Jaimee is hosting the Technique Challenge and has an great tutorial on using brushes in Photoshop. She even gives you some FREE brushes (for personal and CU use) to use for the challenge. I used them to "paint" the background paper on this layout which ties into my journaling. Love it!

And this layout I made a while ago and am posting it because it features Sabrina's only daughter Katie Joe . . . my favorite niece and I think it's pretty!

Page Frocks has a new kit . . . a boy kit!

2010-05-20T22:03:00.004-04:00

Woot, woot . . . I've been designing and have created a kit around my favorite photos of Bradley! A little artsy with the brush strokes and a little masculine/boyish with the duct tape . . . that's Bradley for you!

We even took some photos tonight!

Bradley's Charm is available exclusively at ScrapMatters!

PolkaDotPlum . . . new stuff!!

2010-05-19T21:11:00.004-04:00

I just love the name PolkaDotPlum . . . have you been there lately? They got an amazing Template Challenge Week going on and new designers and amazing digi-products! Check out these layouts that I created today . . .

Using NEW designer (Chris) Pixel Perfect Designs' kit Friendship Daisy for these two . . .

I also used BTA Designs Color Lover's 3 Template Pack for that one and this next one that features the Mommy Is Me! kit by Danielle Corbitt designs . . . isn't this precious? Photos are my niece Melissa, who finally had a girl after three boys!

A trend . . . bright colored kits!

2010-05-17T18:50:00.003-04:00

And I'm loving it! I realized that since joining MyLifeAndScrap's CT my layouts have so much more color . . . it's a bright and happy bunch of designers there!

I created this layout featuring Leslie with one of their May collabs . . . Mama's Kitchen:

New Release by Bubblescrap Designs!

2010-05-17T18:06:00.003-04:00

I'm LOVING this new kit by Bubblescrap Designs . . . Here Comes the Sun . . . the fresh, bright colors have me psyched for summertime! Pssst . . . it's on sale at Scrapbookbytes right now!

I pulled out some photos of my Aunt Janet and Uncle Charles for this first layout:

and then used a new one of Paige from our April photo shoot for the next one . . .

Exciting news for Mye . . . she is now at Scrapable.net and Scrapbookbytes.com! I've been hanging out there and really enjoy it! They have great challenges, so if that's your thing . . . head on over!

Football Pics

2010-05-10T20:35:00.003-04:00

Sabrina - These are the ones I'm talking about . . . .

Recent layouts . . . because Sabrina asked!

2010-05-06T21:13:00.006-04:00

She's right . . . I haven't posted any layouts for a while . . . wow! Not that I haven't been creating them . . . just soooo busy scrapping that I forgot to post. (grin)

Hope everyone had a great (inter)National Scrapbook Day . . . I know that I did. I haven't even been able to unzip and look at everything I bought yet!

Here are a few of my most favorite recent layouts . . .

Happiness

. . . using a photo of Reece from a recent Middletown Maniax football game

Credits: SAS Designs kit Natural Symphony.

Perfectly You

. . . . featuring Paige from our latest photo shoot!

Credits: Tempus fugit's kit Bloom and Strawberry Twinkle Alpha

from her May Grab Bag (which is only $2.00 - seriously!)

Joy

. . . featuring photos of Josie who is now a local pageant winner!

Credits: Springtime Zen kit by Sweet Tomato Designs

Cupcake Love

Credits: Cupcake Sweetie kit by JustJaimee Designs.

Max

This was my last entry in the Scrapping Survivor Contest at GingerScraps.

It made me get to the final round, but I didn't complete the last layout . . . I KNOW!!

Life got in the way that week!

This was my first attempt at blending which was requirement and we had to use two camo papers and the word camoflauge in the layout. Of course that would have suited Jeremy well, but I already used his camo photo for the first layout and didn't want to be redundant, so I used this one of his Uncle Max that I had taken at a football game. It's a great, true photo of him.

Lovely Day

. . . photo is my sister and her husband with their youngest daughter off in the distance. I really like this photo!

Credits: Rise and Shine kit by Bubblescrap Designs.

So there you have it . . . I still have a bunch more, but will save them for another day!

Baby Savannah . . .

2010-04-24T21:21:00.003-04:00

Because I know mommy Chrystal and grandmommy Diann will be blog stalking until I post a sneak peek at the photos I shot today . . . let me introduce Savannah!

This little girl has some of the most enthralled, excited and eager parents I think I've ever seen . . . the photos ooze emotion and I feel so honored to have been given the opportunity to capture this family today! Thank you!!

Easter layouts . . .

2010-04-17T21:37:00.004-04:00

This is probably the quickest I've ever gotten holiday layouts done after the holiday! It was easy though, because I had MyLifeAndScrap's April Collab - Easter Parade to use . . . isn't this lovely?

I'm adoring the alphabet that's included and these colors are going to be so practical for all the upcoming spring layouts.

Then I had a chance to play with RebeccaPSP's kit In My Pocket . . . I knew immediately that this was the perfect kit for this new photo of Paige . . .

Off to finish up my Scrapping Survivor layout before the deadline . . . it requires camo papers and blending . . . oh my!

New Layouts . . . using Josie's photos and more!

2010-04-11T11:45:00.005-04:00

I've been creating layouts all week . . . but not posting any . . . shame on me!

I've been using a lot of Dream Big Designs kits from MyLifeAndScrap . . . she uses such amazing color schemes that allow for really dramatic layouts . . .

This layout is from the new Delight kit by SAS Designs, also at MyLifeAndScrap . . . and because I know Sabrina will ask who she is . . . she's the daughter of one of the football players from Jeremy's team . . . she was running around after the game and her mom was so excited that I was trying to get her photo, so I thought I'd make a layout of her too!

I used Kate's template from MyLifeAndScrap's April 1-15 Template Challenge . . . it's FREE . . . grab it here!

And for this week's challenge at GingerScraps Scrapping Survivor contest, we had to create a layout about the food we miss the most while on the island . . . and the layout has to include journaling explaining why we miss it and hopefully make others drool too (grin) . . . so here was my layout that includes a love letter to these amazing chocolate cream cheese cupcakes . . .

Hope everyone's having a great weekend . . . I'm off to plant some veggies!

A Photo Challenge . . . a 30 thing list . . . FOCUS is here!

2010-04-07T20:28:00.006-04:00

I'm so excited about this new month long photography challenge that Heather Hess and I have cooked up for PolkaDotPlum . . .

This has multiple components, a weekly lesson, tutorials, a list of fun things to shoot, a chance to win Focus: The Kit FREE and like minded scrappers! Here's a sneak peek at the April list:

So go here to learn more . . . the first person to complete HALF of this list will get the kit Focus FREE and then the person to complete the ENTIRE list will also get it FREE! Hurry up!

And to make it even better . . . Heather, Cara of Sweet Tomato Designs and I have collaborated on a themed kit called what else, but Focus! This is HUGE with over 35 papers, 66 elements and two alphabets . . . I KNOW!

My very own kit!

2010-04-07T20:21:00.003-04:00

JustJaimee is an amazing designer who is Canadian, but currently lives in Germany . . . how cool is that?!! She designed a kit . . . based on my color choice and theme and named it . . . Just for Lori. How special do I feel right now?!!

Isn't it beautiful . . . I love the stamped alpha, the neutral color palette and the clever, clever elements!

Here are two layouts I created with it using photos of Jamie that we captured on Easter.

A photo shoot . . .

2010-04-04T20:24:00.004-04:00

So yesterday I had the chance to shoot Josie again . . . you will recognize her from a lot of my layouts . . . this is the CUTEST girl on the planet . . . SERIOUSLY!! She is so much fun to photograph because she is so animated and loves the camera . . .

I have a LOT of photos to process, but I wanted to give a sneak peek for her mom!

Now that the contest is over . . .

2010-04-02T17:50:00.005-04:00

at ScrapOrchard.com, I can share the layouts! We were playing anonymously, which is good but of course that meant that I couldn't share . . . since these were very, very specific challenges, I feel like I need to explain some of these layouts. This was seriously fun . . . and challenging.

Challenge #1: A famous Hollywood director is making a new movie and they are basing it on your life story (or a portion of your life). What song will be playing during the closing credits? What song sums up who you are, how you live or what you’ve learned? The rules: The only words on the page must be from your song. You can’t use any journaling to explain your song choice. You must use the song to tell us who you are.You can scrap portions of the lyrics, but not the entire song. Pick out the parts that speak the most to (or about) you.

Challenge 2: Take a moment and look deep within… what is the one thing, above all else, that is your biggest pet peeve? It may be something you find extremely annoying about people, places or things… even, possibly a ridiculous or unusual phobia. Let’s keep this light-hearted and fun!Scrap a layout about the one thing you find most annoying; tell us what is it about your pet peeve which you find absolutely irritating, what being faced with pet peeve does to you, or say nothing at all. The sky’s the limit… stretch your creative muscles.

Challenge 3: Challenge #3Scrap a layout using only one word... can you guess which word it is? You got it... Glee! You cannot use any other words, numbers, letters, punctuation... just Glee. No other restrictions... yay! (The photo is a freebie from Microsoft Clip Downloads.)

Challenge 4: We want you to scrap a list of things you love.. here's the catch, you have to have a certain number of items on your list and that special number is your age... bwhahhahahaahah!So let's say, I am.. umm.. 27, then I would write a list of 27 things I love. Simple, right?Well, there's another catch... no one ever said there could only be *one* catch!You have to use "YOUR AGE things I love" in your title or somewhere on the page.. for instance, using the example above, you know the one where I am 27 (heheheheh!), somewhere on my layout I would have to have 27 things I love.

So there you have it, my four layouts . . . I didn't win, but I had SOOOOO much fun with this and it really stretched my creativeness . . . I think I placed 4th and they only had three places (with a tie for third) . . . they were amazing layouts!

They have fantastic monthly challenges there, along with a coupon reward for participation. Their products are truly exceptional in the digi-industry, so if you haven't visited yet . . . YOU MUST! ScrapOrchard.com

Freebie from JustJaimee . . .

2010-03-30T18:47:00.005-04:00

One of my new favorite designers . . . JustJaimee is offering a freebie kit on her new blog! Called Do What You Love . . . this is PERFECT for masculine pages, which I really don't do that often . . . I love the edgy, mixed media painterly feel to this kit . . . look what I did with it:

New Kits, New Layouts . . .

2010-03-29T21:34:00.005-04:00

Ok, I think I've babbled enough about RebeccaPSP from MyLifeAndScrap.com . . . you know that I really like her kits . . . I think it's because they are chock full of great stuff to cluster with . . . and that's my new favorite technique! Here's a new one, Melancholic Bliss:

And then I found this one on sale Love Is Funky . . . I just love the pink and green color combination!

But before I got my scrapping fill . . . I had to use this one called Sunshine that I got as part of the DigiFile collection last month by SuzyQ Scraps and now available at ScrapOrchard.com.

While I was at ScrapOrchard.com, I grabbed this template from their template challenge and used Dani Alencar's kit Time to Rock to create this layout.

Pssst . . . I've been designing!

2010-03-26T17:29:00.002-04:00

Check out my Page Frocks Design Blog to see what I created . . .

And ANOTHER competition!

2010-03-24T17:27:00.007-04:00

This competition is at Gingerscraps.net . . . Gingerscraps Scrapping Survivor - Season Two . . . this one sounds intense, not sure what it's all about but with over $700 in prizes I'm game . . . I think it might get a little crazy?!!

Here's my first layout - there were some VERY SPECIFIC requirements on this layout . . .

I have one more week left of ScrapOrchard's competition . . . with no eliminations, I'm not sure how I'm doing, but I've won the first two weeks so I think that's good! I can't wait to share my layouts with you, but for now they are super anonymous!

Also . . . I took advantage of sales at MyLifeAndScrap.com and grabbed some great, colorful kits . . . here's some layouts for ya!

A new blog look and layouts . . .

2010-03-22T17:47:00.006-04:00

What do you think of my new blog decor? Happy, springy perhaps?

Speaking of springy . . . I created some layouts with the new March Designer Collab at MyLifeAndScrap.com! Ohhhhh so pretty . . . .

RebeccaPSP at MyLifeAndScrap is having a FANTASTIC sale on some of her kits, I grabbed three of them this weekend including this black and white number called Drastic.

I have NEVER scrapped with a black and white kit before but always wanted to. My first instinct was to use a black and white photo, but I quickly realized that I needed the color photo to make the black and white really come alive. I also added the green ribbon from one of her other kits just for the pop of color . . .

And finally . . . my new friend Heather Hess, who is also on the PolkaDotPlum Creative Team and I are working on a HUGE new photo challenge over there . . . more news later on that . . .

BUT, Heather is also a talented designer in her own right! She makes the most amazing doodle designs! She creates her art physically by hand and then edits in the computer . . . a high tech old school approach . . . now isn't that contradictory?!!

She let me play with her kit called The Recyclables . . . and I had to use this photo of Josie (one of my favorite layout subjects) . . .

So there you go (Sabrina) . . . this is what I've been working on . . . and oh yeah . . . I've been designing again . . . more on that in a few days!

Plum Prep (School for Digi-Scrappers!)

2010-03-14T11:11:00.006-04:00

Sabrina my friend . . . this post is for you!

Sabrina is making the switch to digi-scrapping, after paper scrapping for years . . . She has amazing, complete paper scrapbooks and like all of us, stacks of supplies to boot . . . but she's finally trying out my way! But wow, where to start . . . can you remember your first month digi-scrapping? I know it is overwhelming at first . . . it was for me!

So I was thrilled to see that PolkaDotPlum has started Plum Prep School . . . this is a self-guided, tutorial based, learning experience for everyone . . . whether you are new like Sabrina or been doing it a while like me . . . there is something for everyone! I was just over there and found a fantastic tutorial on using a free action set for shadows . . . yup, FREE!

And to make it ever more exciting . . . if you go and post a tip/trick in the forum, they are offering a $20 gift certificate to PolkaDotPlum in a random drawing. Check it out here!

In other news . . . CardScraps is offering this fabulous free template for the PolkaDotPlum Template Challenge . . . I love templates like this that offer simple, great composition with room to embellish and make it my own. No doubt this one will be used again and again . . .

For the challenge, I paired it with Pink Peacock Designs newest kit, Friends of the Arctic. Sabrina sent me some great photos of my boys playing in the snow with their cousins at her house during one of our last big snow storms so I was anxious to create a layout with these!

And remember when I told you about the amazing Message In a Bottle 2 Grab Bag now available from Brandy Designs? Woohoo . . . I made this layout of my cousin's son, Collin . . . let me tell you - these stitches have moved to my favorite folder and will be used again and again and again . . . I love the messy look.

There are four, full size products in this grab bag . . . everything you see here (except the papers) including the template is from the grab bag! Available for a limited time at the reduced, grab bag price (with a chance to win with purchase!). . . don't miss it!

Blog Challenge, FREE Template and More!

2010-03-12T22:42:00.005-05:00

Brandy Designs at PolkaDotPlum.com has a kit out called Serenity . . . along with a most clever grab bag (that I had to grab - get it, you won't be disappointed!) and a FREE template to go with her blog challenge here!

So, I snagged the template and used Serenity to make this layout about Jamie . . . using *yes* my favorite photos of him!

Oh yeah . . . and I finished my final layout for the MyLifeandScrap.com contest . . . you know, where the winner gets a Bamboo Tablet! The challenge was to create a layout answering Who Am I?

Here is the one I submitted . . .

Crossing my fingers until the announcement on Sunday! The other two layouts were really amazing . . .

Speed Scrap

2010-03-10T20:01:00.004-05:00

Other happenings . . . SPEED SCRAP at MyLifeandScrap.com - this Friday, be there!

Guess what?

2010-03-09T19:31:00.004-05:00

I made it to the final round (Round 4) of the MyLifeandScrap.com Scrap Your Life Contest! So I still have a chance to win the Bamboo Tablet (see this post to learn more) !!

This week's prompt is to create a layout with photos and journaling that answers Who I Am. Sounds easy maybe, but that's a GIANT BLANK CANVAS to me . . . which is daunting. I actually finished it last night, but decided to wait a day or two and revisit it to see if I'm still happy with it . . .

In other exciting news, I've been chosen for the PolkaDotPlum.com Creative Team . . . wow, what an honor! I've already introduced you to Cara of Sweet Tomato Designs, she's exclusive at PDP and I just love all their designers so I gave it a shot!

Incidentally, TODAY is Cara's birthday and she's giving away a gorgeous birthday kit to newsletter subscribers . . . so go sign up!

Here's what I've been playing with this week by Dysfunctional Designs at PolkaDotPlum.com . . . Faded Winter. It is so wonderfully designed, rich with texture that a simple layout is very powerful. Featuring Reece . . . during our first "big storm" last month . . .

Over a MyLifeandScrap.com, I had a chance to create a layout with this gorgeous yellow kit appropriately titled Yellow Inspiration, a collab between BubbleScrap Designs and Dogs Day Designs.

The March 1-15 Template challenge is hosted by Kate of Kate Designs . . . isn't this an AMAZING template? In a few clicks, you have a really unique, detailed layout that looks like it took hours . . . but really comes together in minutes! AND IT'S FREE . . . so run, don't walk over to the MyLifeandScrap.com forum and grab this baby!

More CT news . . .

2010-03-05T19:55:00.006-05:00

So not only have I joined the Creative Team for Sweet Tomato Design's, but I've also joined the MyLifeandScrap.com store CT aka Spirit Squad . . . yes, where I'm still in the running to win the graphic tablet that I so desperately am lusting after . . . This week I've been a scrapping fool . . . where to start?

Here is my layout for Round Three of the MyLifeandScrap competition . . . I had to create a layout about my job. Sunday evening I will find out if I move to the final round (fingers crossed).

Then I was on to my first CT duties at MyLifeandScrap . . . This month I'm creating layouts for two fantastic designers, the memorably named Chickensocks and RebeccaPSP.

Here's what I did with ChickenSocks' Outdoor Boy kit . . .

Then I started playing around with RebeccaPSP's Felicitious kit . . . I'm not quite sure what it means, but is it pretty or what?!!

And finally . . . another layout contest . . . this one over at ScrapOrchard.

This one is anonymous . . . here is my first prompt and the layout is due on Monday!

I have to use the lyrics of a song that could my life (or event) theme song . . . only the lyrics and no independent journaling . . . so what should I choose?

Not much time, so I'm on it . . .

Exciting News . . .

2010-03-03T07:13:00.005-05:00

I have a few tidbets to share . . .

first of all, I made it to Round Three of the MyLifeandScrap.com layout competition . . . this means the pool has narrowed to six of us. Our next layout is about our job, due Friday and then on Sunday the final three are chosen for one more round.

second of all, I have accepted positions on a couple Creative Teams . . . the first is Sweet Tomato Designs . . . who sells exclusively at PolkaDotPlum.com. I met Cara during last year's NDIDDS (the design competition). She is such a sweet person and so generous with her knowledge, check out her blog here and look at what she has released today:

The Princess kit . . . soft, sweet yet still very versatile.

She released The Prince last week . . .

AND . . . you can get BOTH in The Royalty Bundle for a super, super price here!

Happy Wednesday . . .

Layouts as promised . . .

2010-02-27T16:20:00.005-05:00

A Saturday at home, in my pjs, Banana Nut Bread candles burning, digi-scrapping the day away with new kits is about as close to a perfect day as I can have . . . I know, my world is small!

Anyway . . . here are the layouts I created so far with the barn photos . . .

Credits: Template by ChrissyW, Sample Pack 14; Play kit by Sahlin Studios/DeCrow Designs; and Springtime in the Orchard - a ScrapOrchard Collab kit.

More Horseback Riding/Barn Photos

2010-02-27T13:51:00.004-05:00

I figured that I should get these finished up, since we'll be heading out tomorrow again and I'll have a new batch to process.

Here are some of my favorites of Jeremy and I, processed a little different . . .

I just LOVE the antiquey feel of these images . . .

But wait, check these out of Toby . . . he is such a country boy!

Off to scrap some layouts . . .

Week Two of the contest . . .

2010-02-25T19:23:00.001-05:00

Our challenge was to use photos and journaling to create a layout about our home . . .

Normally I don't do layout like this . . . they are definitely focused on people and usually not so whimsical. I love the colors of this kit by Designs By Lili. I found it in my stash and have probably had it over a year, but never used it?

On Sunday I'll find out if I made it another week . . .

My Life and Scrap Contest

2010-02-22T07:11:00.002-05:00

Yeah . . . I made it to Round Two in the Capture Life Scrap Off . . . my prompt this week is "My Home." It is a pretty broad challenge . . . use photo and journaling and create a layout about my home.

Horseback Riding

2010-02-22T07:07:00.003-05:00

For Valentine's Day, I bought Jeremy two riding sessions at a local stable . . . so we went riding yesterday afternoon. In light of the snow on the ground, we opted for the indoor arena in lieu of trails.

Meet Billy and Mona . . .

I also grabbed this shot of Jeremy . . .

Snow, snow and more snow . . .

2010-02-18T18:34:00.008-05:00

I had to scrap some of the snow photos . . . I still have some from Sabrina of Bradley and his cousins that I want to scrap . . .

I entered a scrapping contest, I'm addicted to these things . . . seriously, my world is small. BUT this one has the BEST prize yet!!! . . . a Bamboo tablet . . . I've been drooling over them for almost a year now! Anyway . . . it's over at http://www.mylifeandscrap.com/.

Here is my entry for Round One . . .

And some other recent layouts . . .

Ok, now this just goes to show how desperate I am to create layouts . . . I don't know who this kid is!! Seriously, I took his photo over a year ago at one of Jeremy's football practices . . . but I don't know who he is. So I gave him a name and made a layout . . .

Here are some layouts using photography clients photos . . .

Josie . . .

Levi . . .

Enjoy!

Extreme Cookie Baking . . .

2009-12-20T21:02:00.008-05:00

So today my sister Denita hosted a cookie baking experience. In attendance were Denita and her daughters, my mom, our friend Heather and me. Together we baked an assortment of cookies for the holidays, but it was really about friends and family sharing time together.

Here are a few photos of the day . . .

Haha . . . no cookie photos . . . I'll process them later!

Bradley turns 14!

2009-11-15T20:57:00.002-05:00

My sweet, baby boy is 14 years old today . . . we celebrated very low key. Since two of his gifts he already received . . . I still wanted him to unwrap something . . . so I did the box in a box, in a box, in a box (times five!) trick! His friend Michael came over and we had ice cream cake.

Jamie's New Digs!

2009-11-07T18:13:00.004-05:00

Jamie did it . . . he has secured his first apartment . . . he's living my himself! Yesterday Andy moved the furniture in and today I added the accessories and food. My mom added some towels, pillows and the end and coffee tables.

Last night his electric went out, but he stayed there by himself (Andy went and ran an extension cord from an outside light so he had some lamps at least) and the landlord had it fixed today - he was so brave!

It's a third floor, walk up, typical first apartment . . . a small kitchen (slanted ceilings), bath and three additional rooms. Just right for Jamie!

To give you an idea . . .

Jen - I found the song!!

2009-11-05T14:52:00.005-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqIWFyHR-KA

I've been searching for this song and it's name for years . . . Jen included it in a mix CD for me years ago, but I couldn't find it . . . it is by Tim McGraw, All We Ever Find. This is my favorite song of all time . . . so simple, so real and so true. Go listen!

Here are the lyrics:

Say exactly how you feel
Right now you're free to say it all
There is no one here to judge you
I only love you
You're free to close your eyes and fall
You can trust me, this is real
Say exactly how you feel

Tell me all your dreams
And what you think love means
We'll lock the world outside
Embrace the gift of time
Promising forever
Knowing that this moment
Might be all we ever find

Every breath of who you are
Tells a story that I love
I have finally found the truth
In what I see in you
And what I feel with every touch
The simple beauty of your heart
In every breath of who you are

Tell me all your dreams
And what you think love means
We'll lock the world outside
Embrace the gift of time
Promising forever
Knowing that this moment
Might be all we ever find

Tell me all your dreams
And what you think love means
We'll lock the world outside
Embrace the gift of time
Promising forever
Knowing that this moment
Might be all we ever find
Promising forever
Knowing that this moment
Might be all we ever find

Knox is growing up!

2009-10-11T12:54:00.003-04:00

This morning, Jeremy and I took the dogs to the school field to, well . . . act like dogs. They loved it, racing around, chasing a ball . . . ahhhh to have a dog's life!

Bad, bad blogger . . . with a photo gift!

2009-10-11T11:55:00.008-04:00

I haven't posted to this blog in four months? Yikes!! Well, I beg busy-ness . . . (smile) But . . . I do have photos to post!

These were taken last month at a Bonnybrook Horse Show. I missed the highlight of the day due to my bee phobia (those that really know me, understand), but did capture these of my sister . . .

And Leslie in all her cuteness . . .

Diane and her family were there, they braved the overnight rain and camped out with Denita . . .

There was a costume class. Toby dressed as Paul Revere and took second place!

And of course, Mom and Walter were there!

An Evening Horse Show . . .

2009-07-09T09:17:00.004-04:00

Last night I went to a horse show at Twin Brooks to watch my adorable neice Leslie and my cousin's son Jeffie participate. It was like a family reunion for me! Cousins and long lost friends and aunts and uncles . . . I had so much fun!

Of course, the riders and their horses were the main attraction . . . here are my favorite captures of the day . . .

If they gave a "cute" award . . . Leslie would win first every time with Cocoa!!

When's the next show?

More pretty girl pictures!

2009-06-08T19:57:00.004-04:00

I'm STILL not done editing these, I don't think I've ever done a shoot where I absolutely LOVE so many . . .

An Amazing Kid Shoot . . .

2009-06-08T08:58:00.007-04:00

Oh my goodness, I had a blast yesterday with my sister, Denita and friend, Bonnie . . . we put the kids in the backyard and just chased them around with the cameras . . . minimal direction, just capturing their kidness (is that a word?) . . . I have a TON of fantastic photos . . . it was hard to pick, but here are some of my favorites . . .

I'll post some more later . . .

Whew . . . What a weekend!

2009-05-29T22:59:00.004-04:00

Happy Belated Memorial Day! I know, I've been a bad blogger . . . I've been spending all my time over at http://www.designsindigital.com/ and the PageFrocks blog . . . this contest is consuming all of my time lately! But I did take a long weekend for the holiday. Jeremy and I were quite busy . . . no football game, but we spent a lot of time with family!

On Saturday evening, we went to Bonnybrook Riding Club where my mom and stepdad, Walter, were camping with the horses. Denita and her family joined us and we shared dinner over the campfire . . . we had chicken and steak kabobs, roasted herbed potatoes, angel food cake with strawberries and of course . . . smores (and more smores)!

My favorite photos from that day include my mom's new dog, Honeybun, and the elusive Jeremy . . .

On Sunday, we went back to volunteer/help at the Bonnybrook Riding Club Gaming Show. If you've never been to one, you must!! They are so exciting! Seriously . . . I would do this! What a patriotic way to start off the show . . . (actually they do this for every show, but it still gives me chills.)

Later in the afternoon, we headed to Jeremy's parents for a cookout and to visit with his Grandparents who traveled from Virginia to spend the weekend with family.

On Monday, we joined Denita's family at a local park to celebrate Toby's 10th birthday!! This is becoming a tradition and is a great way to spend an afternoon!

My favorites shots of the kids . . .

Afterwards, several of us followed him to his baseball game (where they got special shirts for the holiday weekend - what a great coach!). Toby is really quite good . . . do you see everyone looking at how far he hit the ball! This was his first hit too!

This weekend, we have a football game in Lykens . . . next weekend will be the last home game. Hope to see you there!

My Scrapbook Design Contest Entry!

2009-05-08T08:24:00.003-04:00

Ok - so you all have to mosey on over to the new blog . . . Page Frocks . . . and check out my scrapbook design for the NDIDDS contest. There are over 50 participants, but I'm feeling good about it . . .

Grand prize is a design spot in the store and a year's worth of free advertising. Here is my entry for the first week:

We are judged on more than just downloads, although that is big part of it because it demonstrates our ability to market ourselves and the demand for our work. So, go download it here!! It is FREE, FREE, FREE . . .

Jen Graduated with her Master's Degree!

2009-05-01T23:00:00.002-04:00

I was so proud of my youngest sister, Jen, tonight when she graduated with her Master's in Social Work from Shippensburg University! She's worked long and hard for this, but if you know Jen . . . she's not done yet.

Maniax vs. Brawlers

2009-04-26T20:09:00.005-04:00

So we went to Laurence Harbor, New Jersey for a game this weekend against the Bayshore Brawlers. It was an exciting game with the score being pulled back and forth between the two teams. It finally tipped in their favor . . . here are my favorite shots of the game . . .

Jeremy is taking this guy out by his legs . . .

How many Brawlers does it take to bring down one Maniax player? . . .

Home game next Saturday . . . call if you need directions!

The Middletown Maniax . . .

2009-04-20T14:00:00.005-04:00

had their first game on Saturday. The coach said I am the official team photographer and will be getting a coach shirt to wear for future games - woohoo!! Team photo in two weeks . . .

Jeremy is number 60 and plays right guard/right tackle. They lost . . . but it was still a great game. Lots of fans showed up, the weather was PERFECT and I took almost 500 photos - (gasp) then I had to process them all!

Anyway . . . here are my favorite shots of the day. I'm still learning about shooting action . . .

Michelle's Senior Photos!

2009-04-20T13:51:00.003-04:00

Oh my goodness, inquiring minds are eager to sneak a peek at these . . .

Michelle was fantastic to work with . . . she knew what she wanted, the weather and lighting were optimal and she is so beautiful that everything turned out fantastic!!

Without further ado . . .

Oh Jamie - What did you do?

2009-04-15T08:53:00.002-04:00

Yes, he did . . . he had a roommate shave his head into a mohawk. He says to me, "Mom, you know I always wanted a mohawk." Uh yeah, but what can I really say . . . he doesn't live with me anymore right?

Of course, I had to make a scrapbook page of it . . . the journaling reads: I've tried to teach you to be yourself, yet I was still shocked when I first saw this haircut.

Jamie is so proud of it though! What can I do but smile . . .

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SABRINA!

2009-04-15T08:43:00.002-04:00

Yes, Sabrina shares her birthday with tax due day . . . but it makes it easy to remember!

HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY Sabrina!

I signed up for this digi-scrap designer contest!

2009-04-15T08:41:00.002-04:00

Oh don't worry - I'll be providing appropriate links when I complete the first challenge. They don't begin until May 1 though.

New Bradley Photos

2009-04-09T21:35:00.003-04:00

After losing my camera's battery charger, I broke down and bought another . . . so with batteries loaded, new clothing and a gorgeous day . . . we had a mini shoot. My little boy is getting so big!!

Jeremy's First Scrimmage with the Maniax

2009-03-28T19:57:00.005-04:00

As most of you probably know, Jeremy has joined a football team - Middletown Maniax. They had their first scrimmage today and unfortunately lost by a point . . . bummer. Of course, I took some photos and wanted to share!

His jersey isn't in yet - he'll be number 60. If anyone wants to come watch him play, most games will be free and I'll let you know the schedule when I get it.

A New Hobby . . . Couponing

2009-03-21T11:33:00.003-04:00

Seriously . . . I'm becoming obsessive about it!! This week, I went shopping armed with coupons and a copy of Giant's coupon policy (in case the cashier didn't believe it was possible). I saved $90.97 with coupons. Yes NINETY DOLLARS!!

And I bought stuff we actually use like peanut butter, brown sugar, pasta, spaghetti sauce and obviously a lot more!

Ok - so here's my strategy and oh yes, there is some planning involved. I get coupons from the Sunday paper (next week I will buy two papers), magazines, and online. The online coupons are probably my biggest source. I have a laser printer, so it is very affordable to print them out. I print out the max allowed - sometimes this is five coupons but sometimes only two.

I visit these sites to find them: www.couponmom.com, www.smartsource.com, www.ecoupons.com and www.couponbug.com. There is some overlap in the coupons, but I'll print the max allowed. Then each week, I spend about an hour visiting manufacturers websites, where you will almost always find free coupons, such as www.landolakes.com and www.pillsbury.com. There is a great forum at www.couponmom.com where readers provide links to new and varying coupon offers too. I also google specific coupons i.e. "produce coupons." I found several for Dole salad greens this way!

Now, you need to know your store's coupon policy as they do vary. I shop Giant for the bulk of my large grocery trips. They have a flyer in Sunday's paper that provides six coupons to TRIPLE ones you take with you - this is a freebie - use it. They double coupons up to $1.00 - so any coupon between $0.50 and $0.99 will be adjusted to give you a dollar off! A $0.35 coupon will net you $0.70 in savings. However, you may also use multiple coupons per purchase up to the item price. They will double the first, but not subsequent. Note though that the cashier's usually override and double it anyway (I don't think they understand the policy).

For example . . . I have three $1.00 off coupons for a bag of dog treats that is priced at $2.93 each. I give them three coupons and save $2.93 - the purchase price - IT'S A FREEBIE!!

I also watch the store sales and combine them with the coupon offer. If the coupon won't expire for a while, then I may hold it until the item goes on bonus buy to amp up my savings or until I need the item.

The cashier admitted that in his year's employment - this was the most coupons he'd ever seen for one trip (smile). If you approach it like a game or challenge . . . it's fun!

So . . . . dear family and friends . . . if you don't use coupons - please give me the one's out of your Sunday paper!

What fun!

2009-03-17T14:39:00.002-04:00

I found this online style sheet designer thingeee . . .

Romantic Easter Ensemble - by DesigningLori on Polyvore.com

Coffee Break - by DesigningLori on Polyvore.com

This could get addictive really fast. Click on the image to create yours or to find shopping links!

New Photos of Knox, Onyx and Jeremy

2009-03-12T19:51:00.005-04:00

We recently heard from Noreen, who we purchased Knox from . . . I wanted to share some updated photos of Knox - so off we went to the backyard this afternoon to try a doggie photo shoot. She has his mother AND a brother and sister . . . that's a lot of Rott!

Now keep in mind, he is eight months old now and weighing in at a whopping 100 pounds! He is still mostly a giant puppy though. He learns quickly and is so loving and responsive. Him and Onyx are the best of friends. They go nuts if separated now . . .

Of course, I had to get a couple shots of Jeremy too . . . he's not the most cooperative model (grrrr). Uncle Max wants some for his photo wall, so he let me play a bit. These are my two favorites:

Jamie's World . . .

2009-03-07T16:07:00.008-05:00

Because inquiring minds want to know . . . Jamie's home in pictures . . .

Today when I picked him up, he was happy to let me take photos of his residence . . . here is Jamie introducing the front of the house . . . a row home in Carlisle:

His bedroom . . . uh, he was excited to show me how CLEAN it was today . . . it is SO CLEAN that he got a star for it!!

And finally the backyard which is begging for my mom to come plant flowers or vegetables in . . . I'm guessing mowing will be on his chore list this summer!

Of course, I had to take the opportunity to get a couple more shots of my sweet boy who I am SO PROUD OF!!

I figured out Photoshop Elements!

2009-03-04T13:58:00.005-05:00

Ok - sorta . . . I figured out the layers portion and how to use premade scrapbook templates.

Here are the first three that I did . . .

Oh yeah . . . what do you think of the new blog header? It was a freebie from House of Three.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T15:57:00.002-05:00

Bradley worked it for me . . . he wore a pink shirt with a red hoodie and red beanie hat that I bought for the occasion. Jamie joined in too!

We made wings!

2009-01-25T15:09:00.004-05:00

Like most Sunday mornings, I hung out watching The Food Channel . . . specifically Sunny Anderson's show Cooking for Real. It was titled Wings Three Ways . . . and decided I HAD to make wings today.

So I loosely followed her recipes for the wings and the Honey Bbq Sauce. I made rustic, red potato mashed potatos and loaded them with crumbled bacon, sauteed onions and garlic, light cream, butter and bleu cheese (smile). Yeah, this isn't the low cal version . . .

Anyway, this is the first time either of us has made wings deep fried like this on the stovetop. It really isn't hard, but is a bit messy. The results are sooooooo worth it!! While I'm not much of a wing connoisseur, Jeremy is AND . . . he claims these to be the best wings he's ever had. Even I found it hard to stop eating them!!

The Chocolate Avenue Grill

2009-01-25T14:55:00.004-05:00

So last night, we had dinner at The Chocolate Avenue Grill in Hershey. We took advantage of a generous gift certificate from Denita and Jon - THANKS!

Oh my goodness . . . if you are local, you've got to try this place! The setting is casual dining, but the food is very upscale . . . as is the service!

We started our meal with the Duck Tenders. They are deep fried, almond breaded, duck tenderloins served with a hickory-smoked bbq sauce. Devine!

We chose to add salads to our meal . . . I had the Strawberry Salad featuring ripe, sweet strawberries and toasted almonds on a bed of mixed greens with a lovely honey poppyseed dressing. Jeremy opted for the Classic Ceasar Salad. Gotta tell ya, that's never been my favorite . . . but I'm sooooo getting that next time! It was so fresh, I question if it was prepared when ordered!

He got one of the specials for the day - Roast Bison Osso Bucco with a cheesy, mushroom risotto and glazed baby carrots. I had to try the Roast Duck over asain noodles with julienned vegetables in a sweet sesame sauce. This was heavenly.

Try it - you'll love it! The menu is diverse, the wait was short at a peak time on a Saturday evening (they don't take reservations for parties of under five), again . . . service was fantastic, prices are reasonable and portions are large! They are open for lunch and dinner.

I'm looking forward to trying their Bistro Burger next time!

Gran Torino

2009-01-24T08:50:00.004-05:00

Last weekend, we ventured out into the cold to watch this movie Gran Torino . . . I won't lie - I heard Clint Eastwood and assumed this was a guy's action flick . . . I dutifully went along determined to enjoy it.

I should have had a clue when I mentioned to Sabrina that we were going to see it and she squealed, I LOVED this movie. You'll like it. Uh . . . ok.

Oh my goodness, it is not a typical Clint Eastwood film. This was a fantastic movie. I'm really digging these plots that intertwine our culture with others - that demonstrate the obvious differences and then, in unpredictable ways prove we are all truly the same inside . . . trying to love our families, live peacefully, love our God, reach our goals and can help one another along the way.

I don't really follow the awards scene, but I cannot imagine that Clint Eastwood wouldn't be receiving recognition for this one!

Hint . . . I bawled in the theatre at the end of this one! Never saw it coming.

THE Book Review

2009-01-24T08:42:00.002-05:00

Ok, so after reading The Kite Runner and posting my raving review . . . I ordered A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini.

I finished the last two-thirds of this book in one sitting last night. I couldn't tell you the last time a book has gripped me like these two have! Yes, this was just as powerful as the first book. This time focusing on two girls/women, instead of two boys/men.

These books focus on the power of spirit in spite of unimaginable life circumstance. It gives us a glimpse into the Afghanistan culture and struggles. It humbled me and makes me thank God that I was born into the wonderful country that most of us take for granted. It speaks to the power of friendship and devotion.

Seriously friends - READ THESE BOOKS!!

Our Visit to the 2009 Pennsylvania Farm Show . . .

2009-01-15T00:11:00.006-05:00

Yesterday, we went to the Farm Show . . . I was excited to try and capture some of the "goings on" at the show.Of course, there are cows, chickens, sheep, goats . . .but there are also peacocks, deer and even a bison!

I want to enter something in the 2010 Farm Show! Maybe produce? Maybe a pie? Maybe a floral arrangement? They even have a photography competition! I'm having no luck finding the entry rules though . . .

The horse pulling competition was exciting to watch. These animals are phenomenal . . .

And of course . . . you cannot visit without sampling the food! There is definitely something for everyone - healthy and uh hum . . . NOT! The boys enjoyed milkshakes and fried cheese squares. I had smoked trout soup and deep fried veggies.

It's going on through next weekend - if you haven't visited - you should!! Admission is free, parking is $8.00, so take some friends.

If you haven't read this book . . . YOU MUST!!!

2009-01-12T18:01:00.003-05:00

This is definitely in the top five of my "Best Books Ever Read" list . . . that exists soley in my head of course.

Fabulous, better than expected, why did I wait so long to read it would be my quotes! Run out and buy it today - SERIOUSLY!

I've already ordered his second book titled A Thousand Splendid Suns - I'll let you know . . .

OMG . . . it was a GREAT eBay night!

2009-01-04T21:51:00.004-05:00

Only one item (of three listed) sold . . . but that is just fine!

I bought a six piece, vintage/antique, Royal China International set a couple weeks ago at an auction. I broke the set up into two auctions . . . an oversized pitcher and bowl (like used for bathing in the old days) and then the second auction of a small teapot, creamer, sugar and vase set.

<GULP> I paid $2.00 for all six pieces . . . and tonight . . . the first two pieces sold for $212.49!!

It is VERY pretty . . .

Woohoo . . . A contest!

2009-01-02T23:24:00.001-05:00

No, not here . . . but over at Happy Daisy's blog! She is GIVING AWAY a free 365 Project Kit from Creating Keepsakes. So don't wait . . . bounce on over and enter this super cool giveaway!

THE Gingerbread House . . .

2008-12-20T14:53:00.004-05:00

Last night while we were out stocking up on (hint, hint) BAKERY SCENTED CANDLES at AC Moore (where they are on sale for - gulp - $2.00 each) . . . we picked up a Wilton Gingerbread House Kit. Around 11:00 p.m. we started . . . and finished around 1:00 a.m.

Jeremy is credited with the bulk of the creative foresight and application . . . this man is a master at piping royal icing!

I'm soooooo ready to start baking cookies, fudge and chocolate covered pretzels for holiday gifts.

A Puppy Photo Shoot . . .

2008-12-14T20:00:00.005-05:00

Today I was supposed to be shooting an engagement session for Jeremy's sister and brother-in-law . . . Julie and Mike . . . those photos didn't turn out as planned so a reshoot is scheduled for next weekend . . .

BUT . . . I did get some adorable images of their Golden Retriever puppy - Riley. Is she not the CUTEST little bundle of fluff?!!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2008-11-27T19:17:00.002-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday . . . Bradley is camping in Potter County with a friend, Jamie spent the day with his dad at his Aunt Donna's and Jeremy and I spent the afternoon with his family.

Here are some of my favorite fall photos from flickr (these are not mine!) . . .

Knox Loved the Snow!!

2008-11-27T19:12:00.002-05:00

I know, I know . . . I'm so very late with these pics!! We've been busy . . . Knox absolutely LOVED the snow. He was mesmerized by it . . .

Yesterday (11/26/08) he weighed in at 54.2 pounds! He is now as tall as Onyx!

Fall Photos of the Dogs

2008-11-04T09:02:00.004-05:00

Yeah - it was a photo shoot for the dogs!! So picture Jeremy and I, in the front yard on Sunday morning, with a pile of photo props such as a orange Halloween witch's hat, faux pumpkins, faux fall leaf vine, my favorite red chair and more . . . coaxing the dogs into sitting pretty. It actually went pretty well with Onyx and Knox - Jeremy simply held a treat in his hand and then positioned them which they held in their prettiest "I want a treat pose."

We also tried to capture his mom's Yorkie puppy, who is still quite inexperienced as a model! Tessa will learn too though!

Here are my favorites from the day . . .

New Scrapbook Pages!

2008-10-17T16:05:00.006-04:00

I was working on some business logos for Denita today . . . and it really put me in the mood to do some digi-scrapbook pages. You know digital scrapbooking is really QUICK!! I can scrap SOOOO much faster this way - I put all these pages together in just over an hour.

Knox is turning 13 weeks old . . .

2008-10-15T18:34:00.002-04:00

and as of yesterday weighs 30.8 pounds!

Some new photos . . .

And more Knox pictures

2008-09-26T07:58:00.003-04:00

What a big boy he's getting to be! He goes to the vet today and is now over 20 lbs. - at 10 weeks!

Another Horse Show . . .

2008-09-15T09:58:00.006-04:00

Yesterday, Jeremy and I packed up the puppy and headed off to Twin Brooks - where my sister Denita and her daughter Leslie were competing in the Extreme Trail Event. If you are a local rider, you may want to check it out - they have beautiful grounds and family oriented events.

This event required the riders to navigate their horse through a series of obstacles and challenges to test the horse's agility, quietness and trust. Obstacles/challenges included things like dragging a pile of empty milk cartons behind the horse, backing within a specified course, a small trail type jump, walking over water and a small bridge, etc.

Denita's horse Reese wasn't too sure on a few of these, but overall did VERY well. Leslie - as always - was a hit because she is so darn cute!! This girl is truly a mini-Denita . . . Grandma Lentz came along to help too . . .

This is hard work . . . it was in the low 90's with no shade . . . we were all hot and tired by early afternoon . . .

We also learned that puppies and ponies don't always mix . . . I was trying to get a cute shot of Knox and Reese kissing when Reese struck out at him with her front hoof, just catching him on the head above his eye. The yelping will probably haunt me for the rest of my life. Jeremy was remarkably calm and held Knox until he stopped crying and we could try to determine if he was seriously hurt. The white of his eye is still red, but he seems ok. Needless to say . . . new rules about how close he can get to horses from now on . . .

Here are some of my favorites from Denita's class . . .

Morning Photo Session with Knox

2008-09-11T09:50:00.004-04:00

So this morning, Jeremy comes home from work to find me in the front yard, in my pajamas and camera in hand, with Knox - trying to get him to pose in a chair!! Of course, once Knox saw Jeremy . . . the photo session was OVER!!! At least as far as Knox was concerned.

I did manage to get a few more shots to add to our rapidly growing collection of Knox photos . . .

Knox is home and pictures to share . . .

2008-09-06T12:14:00.002-04:00

We brought Knox home on Thursday evening . . . we are using a crate for him overnight and so far no accidents!! Good dog . . .

He is seven weeks old and weighs 14 pounds . . . he tries to play with the cats, but they aren't too sure about him yet. Sophie seems absolutely fascinated by him and stays very close to him.

Here are some photos from yesterday . . .

I photographed Miss Haley again . . .

2008-09-04T11:15:00.004-04:00

Almost six months old now . . . Melissa got her the cutest little leg warmers . . . paired with an old suitcase . . . what could be cuter?

Here are my favorites from yesterday's shoot . . .

Our Camping Trip . . .

2008-09-02T08:32:00.007-04:00

I went camping over the long weekend with my mom and Denita and her family. The boys spent the time with their dad . . . . they don't "get" the camping experience.

Mom took her horse and Denita took one of hers. While I didn't do much riding, I really enjoyed the camping experience.

Last month, in preparation, I bought a huge 10x20 tent from Jen . . . uh yeah . . . this is the Hilton of tents!! With Jen and Adam's air mattress, I slept very comfortably! Although it was a bit cold the first night.

We cooked over a campfire and do need to hone my fire starting/maintenance skills . . . but the food was delish!! In the mornings, I made sausage with peppers and onions, bacan and eggs . . .

It was great to spend time with family and enjoy the outdoors in such an intimate way . . .

New Knox Photos!

2008-08-27T20:56:00.004-04:00

Look how the little boy has grown in a week!

He is clearly a leader in the puppy pack . . . fearless and afraid of nothing . . .

Another boy photo shoot . . .

2008-08-21T09:45:00.005-04:00

Brad found me a new model . . . Dakota.

Bradley, Michael and Dakota posed for some photos . . . I think the three of them look like a boy band!

Jamie's Exciting News . . .

2008-08-21T09:35:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, Jamie and I had an interview with the Director of a group home in Shippensburg. While it is further than we had hoped, he is at the top of the waiting list there and they are expecting his room to be available within the next one to three months . . . (quick gasp). We have been waiting for this for a while, but now it seems to be nearly here! We are both excited, but nervous.

Jamie aced his interview and was accepted. Just this last week, we started working with a Transition Coordinator too - Meredith. She's great and will assist with the preparation and transition. His goal is to complete the group home program and then advance to a shared apartment program and then finally have his own apartment and live mostly independent.

Yeah Jamie!!!

Elizabethtown Horse Show . . .

2008-08-21T09:30:00.006-04:00

Denita, Toby and Leslie all showed in the Elizabethtown Horse Show last Sunday . . . I went to help them and had a great time . . . they all took home ribbons. Reese (the horse) did awesome and Leslie was just too, too cute . . . she just can't help it!!

Jamie is officially engaged!

2008-07-24T11:16:00.006-04:00

Two weeks ago, I took Jamie to Chastity's for the weekend in beautiful Muncy. She lives atop a hill with a stunning view. We lured her into the front yard under the guise of a family photo session.

Once Jamie's nerves settled down, he dropped to his knee, pulled out the ring and asked her to marry him. Yeah - I teared up! It was so sweet. Of course she said yes!

I made art . . .

2008-07-24T10:38:00.004-04:00

Last night I was in the mood to make art . . . quite possibly it was a subconscious attempt to divert my attention from more important must-do's, but all the same it was a ton of fun to pull out the art supplies and I've got a frameable piece now!

Titled Rainy Day Flowers . . . This is a 12" by 16" mixed media work on canvas with an acrylic painted background and flowers handcut petal by petal from various papers with inked edges. Each blade of grass is handcut and applied. The entire piece is sealed.

Make me an offer . . . I had to pay $$ to get the hot water heater fixed this week, refrigerator fixed last week and the CD player broke in my car . . .

Bradley's Summer Job

2008-07-23T11:05:00.003-04:00

Yesterday Bradley and his friend Michael decided to start their own business - yup, they are 12!! They have a mower and weed wacker and will travel . . . by foot to central (gulp) Enola.

Calling themselves MB Mowing, they have created flyers and in a moment of sheer marketing genius . . . asked me to take photos of them in matching shirts to authenticate their business. They even came up with a tag line - Hometown boys offering hometown service . . . at a hometown price. Ok, maybe I helped a little . . .

These flyers were then distributed to neighbors in a three block radius and we are just waiting for the phone to ring off the hook.

I gotta give them credit . . . it was delightful to listen to them discussing realistic topics such as who mows and who weedwacks, what about offering discounts, how much to charge and what to do if it is a one person job.

So they are just waiting for the phone to ring off the hook!

Leslie at the Rodeo!!

2008-07-15T10:53:00.004-04:00

On Saturday evening, sweet, tiny Leslie rode a sheep at the Shartlesville Rodeo . . . the smallest kid and a girl no less . . . she placed second!! She held on for a whopping 52 seconds!! You go girl!

An Afternoon with Family . . .

2008-07-06T19:45:00.006-04:00

This afternoon, Jen and Adam hosted a family get together. My cousin Chuck has the most BEAUTIFUL son and daughter. They both have amazing, big blue eyes that beg to be photographed. The highlight of the day was probably all the couples posing on the extra wide, old fashioned, wood swing in Jen's backyard . . . lots of laughter today . . .

Here are my favorites:

Bradley Goes to Camp . . .

2008-07-06T18:03:00.004-04:00

This is the first time that Bradley will be going to camp with his cousins . . . far, far away. Four 12 year old boys away from home . . . I hope they don't get into too much trouble!!

The departure with cousin Zachary:

. . . and Chicken Corn Chowder!

2008-06-25T15:51:00.001-04:00

Dinner is ready . . . I had leftover corn on the cob, white and red potatos, grilled chicken breast, so I just had to make Chicken Corn Chowder.

This is such a hearty soup that tastes even better as a leftover!

Apple Pie Anyone?

2008-06-25T13:56:00.003-04:00

What is more summer time, small town and all American than applie pie . . . while I was making it, there was a Food Stylist 2008 show on Food Network . . .

If you've never heard of a food stylist . . . they are a makeup artist for food! How cool is that?!! They prepare the food for photography. So on this challenge, they are given a handful of ingredients and then challenged to create a specific food layout for the photographer. So you get to see the tricks of the trade and just as exciting for me . . . how the photographer captured the images.

So, I thought I would do some styling myself with my apple pie . . . I know, you probably think I have too much time on my hands don't you?!! (wink)

Here are my images:

The Carnival is in Town!

2008-06-25T10:22:00.002-04:00

The Enola fire department's hosted the first carnival here in over a decade . . . so we ventured out last night for the opening night . . .