ScrapbookingSmiles

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T01:00:00.000-05:00

We certainly show love everyday of the year, but love to have a special day to show our love and appreciation for each other.

These two little girls have made me a better person, pushed me to make better choices for myself, helped me to be more creative, made me crack up laughing at the littlest of things, made me smile just remembering something they said, and I could not imagine my life without them.

The love of my life, Joe. We have certainly shared our ups and downs in our 10 years together. It has been an unforgettable journey. I love the laughs we share, I love the challenges we have accomplished, the talks we have shared, and, of course, the family we have created.

I look forward to the dreams we want to accomplish together and the many years full of love and laughter together!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Catching up from the weekend...

2012-02-13T11:19:00.001-05:00

After a weekend full of obligations and work...I have piles of laundry beside the washer, a full hamper in the bathroom, a dishwasher that needs to be emptied,

floors that need to be vacuumed, projects that need to be finished, valentine cards that need to be made, and I'm on the computer! HaHa

a few new photo of the day shots....

Mikayla helped make some cards which will be sent to the soldiers overseas

I'm a serious blog addict...although I did cut my list down {very proud of that}

treated myself and the girls to a Starbucks on Saturday while we were running errands

Joe suggested a trip to the bowling alley...what a great idea...we all had a great time!

Photo a Day thoughts....

2012-02-08T23:32:00.001-05:00

It seems so early in the year yet, but I feel so accomplished that I've taken a photo a day so far.

I find that I'm taking A LOT of pictures with my phone to document the day. I don't feel like pulling out the Digital camera and setting up the features....HELLO this is one of the main reasons I decided to take this challenge on.

For this photo I was working with the light from the front window. I'm pretty happy with the photo and I left it SOOC {no editing}.

This is not quite the shot I was envisioning...I was trying to get the pieces in the front sharp and Casey blurred in the background. However, that's not what I got and I liked the results.

This was a late, Sunday night with no documented photo for the day...so what did I decide to use....my new PJs from Target {PS I do love these funky, warm PJs}

My little peanut wasn't feeling 100%...so she lounged around all day. I did have to edit this photo and lighten it up a little.

This was funny...I noticed the other day how the sun comes in the windows at the top of the steps and shines right down the steps and creates a very bright hallway...Aha! A great location to take photos.

I wanted to try and push myself just a little this year and try to get on the other side of the camera a little more this year {truly a challenge for me, because I'm not happy with what I see on pics...but that's another book}...so I thought I'd set the camera towards the top steps, set the timer and get some photos....however, the focus was not doing what I wanted it to do, when I was reaching to get it set.

So plan B...I called Alexis {age: 5} out to take pictures for me. She does not zoom in at all, and I had to overly zoom in to crop the photo I sorta liked. So that's how this photo came about and why it's not quite a clear shot.

This photo totally cracks me up! I am so glad I used my phone to capture this memory. It just amazes me how their personalities come screaming through this shot. {PS..this is in the middle of a Sam's Club store...they are just chillin' and watching Shrek}

This is a photo I was only inspired to get, because I'm doing this photo a day challenge. This is not an ideal spot to get a family photo, but I wanted to get a family photo on the 12th of the month. It was too dark outside by the time we all got home, so we had to try it inside. I can't wait to try it again this month.

Another photo that I was lazy and used my phone camera...but I love the effect this camera app. gave to this shot. Looks very old school and vintage. {PS...this book was AMAZING...would highly recommend}

I was inspired by a photo by Elizabeth Kartchner....loved these signs at Target and since I'm there almost every day...I let Alexis pick a sign and pose, I guess I should have asked for a "nice" smile...haha

After reading some info about adjusting the white balance, I think I could have improved the photo with removing some of the yellow tint. But I love the memory this captured.

Another lazy phone shot....

Another challenge I'd like to work on...indoor "gym" lighting....these shots did not come out the way I would have liked.

My challenges that I would like to work on is using my digital camera more often...to get it out of auto mode and shot some amazing pictures. Don't be lazy and practice. I'm looking forward to warmer weather to get outside and use natural light. I'm frustrated with the light inside our home.

Stay focused and keep trying!

Valentine Countdown project

2012-02-03T14:29:00.000-05:00

I recently seen this adorable idea to make a Valentine Day Countdown project by Elizabeth Kartchner...see her's here

http://elizabethkartchner.com/2012/01/30/valentines-day-countdown/

I thought a countdown project would be fun...here is my creation. I did cheat a little, in the fact that I only created them yesterday {Feb 2nd} so we opened two packages at dinner yesterday.

Each one has a little surprise inside...candy, coins, get out of chores notes, $5 gift allowance, etc.

and they make a cute decoration till Feb 14th!

Studio Calico Sketch Challenge....love it

2012-02-01T23:43:00.001-05:00

The sketch challenge...

my creation...

I am so delighted with this...I added pink paint, added grungy stamp marks, sewed on lacey ribbon, and stitched on some buttons.

Let me know what you think!

Sketch challenge

2012-02-01T23:28:00.000-05:00

Here is a sketch challenge that was on my desk...

and my layout...please don't mind that the "e" moved while I was scanning it...I was too lazy to rescan it

and of course {my luck} the deadline was Jan 31st...so no entry for me, but I love the layout!

Project Life is started!

2012-02-01T23:10:00.001-05:00

I've been very dedicated to taking my photo a day for the month of January {Yeah to me...I'm happy about that accomplishment, it may be small, but it's big to me!}

However, I have not been to focused on the project life album.

That has been changed tonight....

this is the cover page to my album!

love it!

I'm really excited to try this for the entire year!

Click it up a notch

2012-01-31T12:13:00.003-05:00

Click it up a notch is hosting a challenge for your best photo taken in January. I took pretty many pictures this month {due to my photo a day challenge} but not too many where taken outside {too cold}.

This was my favorite photo taken in January.

Lots of Layouts

2012-01-12T00:06:00.002-05:00

Current Studio Calico sketch challenge...

one of today's creations inspired by the sketch....I'm thrilled how this turned out...I love the colors....love the ink splatter...love the background paper....loved looking back at these older pics of Casey

photo of the day....day 11 picture

I've been on a little roll the last few days making layouts, so I snapped a photo of my current album filling up!

a layout inspired by a previous sketch from Studio Calico...unfortunately didn't enter in time

layout from today...again some older pictures of the girls...makes me smile

I think this is my current favorite...Absolutely LOVE these colors together...and the photo just cracks me up

This was inspired by a recent layout from Stephanie Howell...love visiting her blog

Thanks for visiting!

photo, layouts, and a challenge...oh my!

2012-01-04T23:26:00.001-05:00

my photo for the day {jan 04}...Alexis was jamming!

a fun layout....it's hard to remember when Mikayla was this small...

another fun layout...I just love the rafia on this layout...it was perfect to use with the chickens and collecting eggs

One of the current challenges at Moxie Fab is to use map pattern paper on a project...here is the info...Moxie Fab World

I actually had a couple of ideas I wanted to do...here is one...maybe I'll get the rest done for the challenge

Back to school...

2012-01-04T00:12:00.002-05:00

Today the kids {three of them anyway} went back to school...Mikayla was the only one that was really happy about it.

This picture just cracks me up....she's writing her spelling words...what is with that face...haha!

Yesterday, I snapped my new Vera {thank you mom} and my 2012 calendar! We're ready for another busy year!

2012 challenge

2012-01-02T01:19:00.000-05:00

So I have wanted to try the project life for at least the last two years....I'm going to try it this year.

For those of you who are thinking "what is she talking about....what's this project life she mentions?"...

I plan to take at least one photo every single day of the year....it may be a gallery perfect shot, a blurry shot of the kids running, or a pile of laundry that I'm facing for the day...whatever I'm inspired to photo that day, that moment

Then the second part of the challenge....scrapbook that photo...no it will not be a full sheet for each photo....each week will be on a two page layout.

So I'm off...here is my photo for Jan 01....Joe playing on his ipad

And one of Alexis that I wanted to share

These are both taken with my phone.

Completely random thoughts....

2011-11-29T00:46:00.001-05:00

*i'm hooked on watching the food network lately {very unusual for me, because I don't really enjoy working anywhere near the kitchen}

*Alexis thought it was cool to cook like the chefs on tv...and I thought it was cool too

*my sleep schedule is all screwed up from black friday...some days it really sucks working retail

*i'm excited to get the Christmas decorations up...hopefully throughout the week it will be completed

*feeling a little relief that we started our Christmas shopping....we have a very LONG way to go, but it's started!

*current favorite app on phone....Slice It!

*really disappointed that i have not been taking many pictures lately...I didn't even get pictures of the girls in their halloween costumes...that makes me mad {at myself}

*current book I'm reading...The memory keepers daughter (just started, but it's very good so far)

*I'm really discouraged with my work situation right now...very few hours...usually weekend...and the pay is TERRIBLE...but I do love to talk to the guests...that's my favorite part {besides the discount}

*loving our new living room furniture...it was so very long overdue

*some days it's hard to believe that my girls are 5 and 8 already....I absolutely love to watch them grow and we laugh together so much

{did you notice she is squeezing the orange...just like on tv...I love it}

*secretly hoping that one of the girls goes to votech for culinary training...i mother can wish can't she

*i'd love to treat myself and my girls to a peppermint hot chocolate from starbucks tomorrow...yum

*most days i feel like a detective catching my stepdaughters in "untruths"...i just don't remember this stage when I was a young teen...{i take the lies very personally}

*current weekend plans...birthday party with family and friends for Mikayla's 8th and Samantha's 14th {14 already....hard to believe it's almost 10 years}

*feeling very blessed that Joe is a very hard worker and a very smart worker

*i'm completely amazed with how many hours my hubby has worked this past weekend and with very LITTLE sleep....don't know how you keep going...thank you for working so hard for us

*thankful that my girls made some great memories with their Oma this weekend...rode horses, parade, etc.....priceless to me that they are so loved

*will start to pray that my girls do not grow with the feeling I have, that I'm not good enough...there is always someone better...I want them to be strong, confident young women who can see their personal strengths

*need to get organized and plan to host a bible study next year...i'm really looking forward to doing another Beth Moore study...i miss her emotional teachings...she really puts a spark in my walk with God!

*looking forward to volunteering at the elem. school this week...math tutoring

*it seems like a little, unimportant thing....but I love to see my girls doing things with their daddy....just hanging out and talking...raking the nuts in the yard...playing soccer in the back yard...I just love to see them bonding

*i really, really dislike the elem. school grading system....1, 2, 3, or 4...why did we have to change the good old way of percentages and A, B, C, D, or F...I know I'm not alone with this feeling

*i need to make more time to craft just for myself....looking forward to a crop event in January

*yesterday when I drove to Bethel to pick up the girls at Oma's...I cried because I miss my dad, he was such an amazing man and i wish my girls and husband could have met him...it will be 15 years next month

*i'm looking forward to a family vacation next year...i just want to go away and do some site seeing...something new, something to make my girls' eyes light up

*if you happen to read this, Joe...I love you and be safe at work!

2011-10-28T23:49:00.000-04:00

I am a DAILY blog visitor on Studio Calico blog...I love to see the ideas the designers share and I love the modern, funky style of their products.

The blog posts a weekly sketch challenge and I usually don't get around to using the sketch much less get it posted in time. But this week is a new change...

Here is the Oct. 23rd Sunday Sketch....

and my layout...

mom's birthday card...

2011-10-16T20:12:00.001-04:00

my mother turned....39....again this year....haha

here's the card I made for her

Alexis' last year of preschool...

2011-10-13T23:13:00.000-04:00

It has been quite a while since I posted....don't know where the time goes.

Alexis started preschool about two weeks after her sisters started school. It is so hard to believe that this will be our last year of preschool. Alexis was super excited to start school again.

Alexis is an extremely funny little girl. She cracks us up! She says the funniest things at just the right time.

Alexis is such a beautiful little girl. It is so awesome to hear all our friends and family comment on her eyes. She really has bright blue eyes that scream for your attention.

She loves to carry her backpack every day. But they hardly ever get papers to put in their backpack. Most of their artwork is displayed in the school.

Alexis is a very smart little girl. Not to take any credit away from her, but she has a huge advantage with having older sisters. She learns a lot from hearing conversations with her sisters. She recognizes almost all of her alphabet {misses about 5 to 7 every time} and she is learning math skills already.

She's not too interested in crafts though....it's like pulling teeth to have her color a picture. She definitely didn't take after me in that area.

She really enjoys playing with her school friends. She talks about lots of kids in her class and shares some conversations almost every day.

Alexis loves to dance! She really has some *amazing* moves!

She has an addiction to shoes {already}...she has used her allowance and gift money to buy about 6 pairs of shoes....crazy but cute!

She loves to drink my coffee.

She definitely does not understand the words "hurry up"...there is NO rush in this girls body....it takes her forever to do things...she is so easily distracted.

she is not a neat kid...she is not good at cleaning up....I think that is another trait of a baby sibling {my younger brother was not good at cleaning up toys either}.

She had a great first day of preschool. All the excitment tired her out and she took a nap that afternoon.

Camping Part 2....

2011-09-20T13:12:00.000-04:00

Camping fun continued....

splashing in the pool...

Mia and Alexis enjoying some cool ice cream...

she's really checking it out....and making a little bit of a mess...

on the hike back to the camp site...don't know what she was doing here....

according to Alexis, these help her to see better {in the sun}....

playing at the camp site....again at the tree....

the chef is at work {this is my favorite part about camping, usually the men do the cooking}...menu tonight...fries and wings

not sure what this is on her cheek....some kind of allergic reaction?...not sure, but it did go away

the three stooges....but they are cooking for us

the kids right before we got on the road to head home

strike a pose....

and we are all ready to go again...

SunValley Camping Part 1.....

2011-09-15T22:37:00.006-04:00

A awesome four day weekend getaway.....
With our hectic family schedule it is so hard to getaway, but this was a nice relaxing weekend.

A phone in a tree?....why not?... The kids played on this tree all weekend....love to see them using their imagination!
I took three of the girls to the kids craft session....they made some make believe bug catchers...cute...

not sure what this look was for....but I sure do love this cutie!

of course we have playing in the stones....

Joe caught a tiny, tiny snake....like the size of a worm...the girls were in awe, but no one was afraid {that's good}

how about a rooster in the camp store?...HaHa....Oh, it's just Ron acting crazy...

kids cooling off at the pool....

lots of pool photos....

the water was too chilly for Sam....

our little floater....{she is in a tube}....

Mia and Alexis just hanging out...

and what goes with relaxing by the pool....ice cream!

these two played nicely in the pool {very unusual}....they competed in some pool games and then played with some of the new kids they met....very cool watching them have fun as sisters

The 6th grader....

2011-09-11T23:59:00.004-04:00

With only two grades in her building, she's now the upper class...
she seemed to have lost some motivation to get the high grades last year, but hopefully this year will get those grades higher again....

It's going to be an exciting year {aren't they all?...}

she is an extremely fast reader....

possible wallet to share with friends....

this is her final year before the move to the middle school...

and the 2nd option for wallets...

The big 8th grader....

2011-09-09T00:33:00.004-04:00

Joe's oldest heads off to 8th grade! {wow....he's getting old...haha}

She wasn't too excited about getting back to school, but she did miss seeing her friends.

I'm thinking this would make a nice school picture to share with family and friends....

Sam seems to be happy with all her teachers....she only had negative comments about one....we think she'll come around in a few weeks and it will be fine

we hope she can keep the "honor roll" title throughout the entire year...that's her challenge

She really likes her English teacher so she said she's going to Ace English...we shall see

This wallet might work great for Sam to share with her friends...little more "teen" style...

Back to school....

2011-09-07T12:46:00.005-04:00

Of course the kids get anxious about back to school, but I have to admit....I really look forward to back to school too!
I get excited helping to pick out the perfect first day outfit....

the perfect backpack to last throughout the year....

I look forward to the new daily schedule {don't really like the part of having to get up early everyday, but....}

I enjoy walking to school with Mikayla {and Alexis}...we have some interesting conversations and make some lasting memories. Some afternoons Joe gets to join us ....

we'll never forget the time we got caught in a downpour on the way home....we all giggle when we remember it

i love to hear the new things the girls learn in school....love to sit and read with the girls....Mikayla is at the stage where she can get through an easier kids book and that is so exciting {yes, I'm easily entertained}

I love to check over homework and correct it....I feel like a teacher with my different colored pen....haha

i look forward to volunteering in the school and meeting my children's friends and the teachers in their environment

since I still have a preschooler....I totally enjoy all the field trips....especially in the Fall when we go to pick apples....love it!

It is awesome to hear teachers telling me how my girls are doing in school....they do amazing...they are so smart

along with the start of school comes the start of Fall sports....love to cheer my girls on from the sidelines {yes, the practice and game schedule can become very overwhelming....but it is worth it}

alittle later in the school year....I get excited when the girls get a snow day and we get to spend the day together

i enjoy the after school activities that the school sponsors....book bingo, safe trick or treating, etc.

it makes me smile when my girls are super excited to show me the projects they made in school

I can pretty much talk to anyone...so when I get to meet more school moms that is exciting to me!

i love to look through book order forms and find the fun books at amazing prices

i just love to watch me girls get excited about learning and meeting new friends...this is such a lifelong lesson that is amazing!

Random Crafts....

2011-09-06T23:33:00.002-04:00

Looking back....it's always fun to look back at older photos of the kids....to see how they have grown.
When I look at my children, it's hard for me to picture them in their younger stages....but when I look at older layouts or older pictures I sit and laugh or cry and it all comes back...
she is so sweet....

really?....why do we buy baby robes?...they are so impractical....you give them a bath and into comfy pjs they go....but they are great for photos!

Alexis made a card for her preschool teacher....she is so excited for this Friday to start 3 day....

she's doing great writing her name....and I love her heart she drew....

birthday card for a happy 4 year old...

CK Convention 2011....

2011-09-05T21:37:00.004-04:00

Two years ago I went to my first CK convention in Valley Forge. I talked my husband into going with me and we just walked around the vender floor. Then last year I had Joe go with me and I added classes to my schedule and Joe wasted time while I did the classes.....
This year, Joe took a class with me!
We took a spray mist class by Studio Calico. Here is his layout.....
close up on page one....

close up on page two... {Joe changed it up and used the dog and fish cards on his layout....I'm not sure what they have to do with the layout, but he liked it....the funny part was Alexis asked him why he used a fish....lol}

My layout....

page one...

page two...

Another class I took was this mini album....did this one solo though....maybe next year....

babysitting at the park

2011-08-30T10:04:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago we watched Colin for a few hours. It was a beautiful day out so we headed to the playground.
Alexis loves to steal some sips from my yummy drink.
Playful older sis....being a camera ham...

and look at this handsome little man....

Crop event layouts...

2011-08-20T02:19:00.002-04:00

Mikayla and I recently enjoyed a local crop event for the day. I spent most of the event working on a mini album {already posted} and did very little layouts....Mikayla however was a crafting maniac...HaHa
This was a layout using a sketch idea from 2Peas....used 6 - 4x6 photos...love the color combo....
one of mikayla's designs...love how she didn't even cut off the label strip along the bottom...lol

mikayla's....again she left the strip at the bottom and the title is supposed to be SMILE....but she's 7 and thinks she can spell everything, so she didn't ask for help.

mikayla's...she was really on a mad craze working with glitter....don't know where she inherited that one, cause I stay away as much as I can.

mikayla's...she was on a monotone color theme for this one...

mikayla's....

and this is mikayla's take on the 2peas challenge....I think she did awesome...she have to get her to start adding a title to her layouts

Mini Album - Pocono Vacation

2011-08-18T01:02:00.005-04:00

I love the look of mini albums...I think they are fun....I think they are perfect for those events that have lots of pictures.....BUT where to you store them all? I can set them on mantels or shelves to share for a little while, then where?

I'll still keep creating them though....here's an older trip we took {so fun to see my pregnancy photos}...

So much to be thankful for

2011-08-16T01:31:00.002-04:00

It is so easy to get caught up with all the challenges in life and not take the time to appreciate and think of the blessings. And our family certainly has many. We are all healthy and strong...
we are all talented in our own unique ways...we all have our own personalities {good and bad, I guess}

we are surrounded by loving family and great friends....we are blessed with jobs and a steady income....we live in a safe home {even with its quirks that need to be updated}

we all have so many extras {material things we enjoy}....we have all the necessities to supply us

we really have fun together....we enjoy our church family and participate in many activities

we have so many freedoms that we all take for granted

we have faced some pretty serious challenges together and it certainly was not easy, but we stuck together and we are so much better because of it

we share so many great dreams and goals together...we are on the same journey and this album is a way for me to record these blessings....each page will have journal the blessings we share

Sharing some crafty inspiration....

2011-08-14T23:32:00.003-04:00

some recent layouts that i did for fun....

vacation photos from our trip to Outer Banks, NC...
definitely a layout that captures a keepsake...I can't imagine looking at this layout with my youngest daughters age 4 hand prints on the layout in another 10 years...so glad this was a project she did in preschool...

unfortunately, I do not get as many photos of my step daughters to work with...and of course the oldest is a teenager who doesn't like to have her picture taken...but I'm very happy with this layout and I think it really does represent Samantha....

birthday cards for twin boys....fun and simple...

fun, fun, fun....looking forward to a day of crafting tomorrow.

Fun photos...

2011-08-04T01:17:00.003-04:00

Again I tried to participate in a challenge...did it...but didn't post photos in time.
On two peas in a bucket they listed a photo challenge to share your CIRCUS....so here is our CIRCUS....
Alexis was our performer....
I did give her some ideas....

but she worked it....

and Mikayla was the spectator...

with her snack...

we had fun together....

and then the girls ate all the popcorn!

Inspired by color....PINK

2011-07-29T00:28:00.002-04:00

As a young child and young adult I participated in sports....raced go-karts and got REALLY dirty every Saturday night. I was pretty much what you would call a tomboy. I can very safely say I was not a girly girl and I did not like pink!
However, then I became a {blessed} mother of one of the girliest girls...Mikayla. This little angel, would wear a dress every single day and would choose pink as her favorite color any day....so the color started to grow on me.
And currently when I work in my craft room, I'm drawn to the color...PINK

Here I mixed it up with the color green....

It is so hard to believe that this was about 2 years ago already...her very first day of kindergarten....
and my favorite color combo right now....pink, blue, and yellow...love it and it definitely works for our house full of girls...
even though this young lady can be tough and spunky, she still loves the bows in her hair and dresses that spin...

and I'm so excited to be off to the Valley Forge CK convention tom {later today}....can't wait to take a class with Joe!

Please hold....

2011-07-24T11:23:00.002-04:00

Recently I've been making more time {usually very late at night} to get some projects finished.
I'm trying to get through some older pictures that I have on the "to do" list. This was from about a year and half ago...
Mikayla was invited to a birthday party at Ozzy's play area. Alexis found the play telephone and that had her hooked. She just played and played...I think she chatted with everyone she knows that day!
great memories!

Crafts and a walk...

2011-07-22T14:05:00.003-04:00

For a few months I really was not inspired to craft. I hardly made any cards, in fact I didn't even make a card for my husband to celebrate our anniversary last month {by the way he was VERY upset with me}...but I've been back on a roll lately...
Here was a technique I wanted to share. I had white glitter thickers, but I wanted them to have some pink...
So I sprayed them with pink...

and the layout after it was complete....

This layout was inspired by a sketch but I didn't post it in time for the challenge...

Ok, here's another "let me explain" moment...The family went for a walk one evening. It was a very humid evening and we felt just a few drops of rain. I jokingly said to Alexis that if it started to rain she would have to take her shirt off so I could wrap up the camera so it didn't get all wet. Well, it never started to rain, but Alexis was hot and wanted to take her shirt off...so we let her!

posing again....

Nature calls...

2011-07-21T13:47:00.002-04:00

We would all love to be in better shape, but we certainly use the "I don't have time" excuse often. However, we found a night to go for a family walk....
they really were thrilled to go...

group shot...

pretty girls....

Mini Get away for 2

2011-07-19T14:20:00.004-04:00

So 4th of July weekend we shipped the big girls off to their mother...the 2 little ones to oma and grandpa doc's house... and we were outta here...

We were invited to join some friends in Maryland for a BBQ. They have a boat docked in the marina here and they had a large cookout....
some amazing views to watch...

this amazingly huge cooker was fabricated by my hubby and my brother....it worked amazing for all the food that was prepared...I really did feel bad about the guys who slaved over this hot thing all day, but they enjoyed it and never complained....

I really should have taken more pictures, but we really just relaxed and talked...

my handsome hubby....

crazy wind blown hair...

slightly better...

views along the travels....

then we headed to my aunts home in DE....we spent some time catching up with Amy and Woody then we headed to Ocean City....Joe really enjoyed the boardwalk...

again, crazy blowing hair...

and of course we enjoyed some yummy food....Bull on the Beach anyone?

A night with the Phillies...

2011-07-18T14:46:00.007-04:00

On our way to the game....my big girl in the back seat....
my girls in their new Phillies gear....

me and my girls....

my hubby and me....for the record...we do think it is really corny to wear the same shirt BUT we really liked the shirt and couldn't decide who would get a different shirt....so that being said we are wearing the same shirt.

Alexis had really no interest in watching the game at all...this was before the game and she was already bored...

Mikayla's favorite part was the Hot Dog vender guy and the Toothfairy....she had no idea who even won the game...it was the Phillies by the way!

mascots....

ok, so I have a pet peeve.....why does this sport make such a big deal about replacing a pitcher?...any other player is switched out during the inning switch...not the pitcher...we have to make a big group meeting..."pitcher, you're not doing a good job, head on over to the bench and we'll bring in another pitcher to take your place...thanks"

and here is Joe's uncle Neal who has been singing in the 7th inning for the last many, many years....

afterwards we enjoyed some fireworks....I set the camera up for the night action, but Joe took over the camera because I got to hold Alexis {she doesn't like the loud bang}....he did pretty good...

love this picture....Joe took this with his IPad, but I made him share it with me...we had a great time at the game and we are looking forward to the next family night at the game...

Crazy summer activities...

2011-07-15T14:34:00.007-04:00

In our local soccer club a few of the coaches get together and hold a soccer camp for four nights. This year Mikayla participated in the camp. Most of the girls were 4th through 6th grade....but Mikayla held tough being the youngest {1st grader}
Since she was the youngest, she usually didn't get picked for the partner events...that left the younger coach volunteer to partner up with her...at least she was a good sport.
I don't know that she learned any NEW moves, but she definitely tried to keep up with the older girls and worked hard.

and she had fun!

Can't wait to watch her this Fall when she starts traveling with the U-9 team.

Ok let me explain....

This was definitely one of those great mom moments..... while we were at the soccer camp, Alexis was having a blast playing on the playground equipment. As we were sitting there we heard a scream/cry and knew it was Alexis. She went to one of the 7th graders that was sitting on the playground and was talking to her. I assumed she was just scared of a bug or spider and I yell over to the 7th grader "You can laugh at her". And then I yell to Alexis "Did you get stung?" Alexis yells "Yes" and that was it. About 20 minutes later she comes over to Joe and I and says her finger hurts and sticks it out....wouldn't you know it, she did get stung and guess which finger it was! LOL

So yes I laughed at my daughter while she was in pain from a bee sting and Yes we totally had fun with asking her to show us the finger with the boo boo on it!

Instead of saving all the school projects, we take pictures of the projects with the creator. Here is Alexis' Spring umbrella...

one of my favorites this year....love the background colors.

One of Mikayla's friends had a party at one of the local pools this summer....we all made an event of the party....

crazy Alexis...

Mikayla....

Alexis was showing us she can go underwater....very interesting....

and up she came....

our young teenager, Sam....the white stomach cracks me up....obviously she wears a one piece at her mother's house....

all the girls....

Mikayla and the birthday girl, Olivia and Alexis stole some poor kids inner tube....

some back yard fun...

Mikayla wanted to practice her field hockey moves....so Alexis decided to grab a stick....

and shin guards.... not quite sure how flip flops will work for ya though?

my tough girl striking a pose in between her dribbling practice...

ok she's tired of the sweaty shin guards...

Kraft Challenge

2011-06-30T22:11:00.002-04:00

On a very creative blog from across the world....Kraft it UP...I've recently tried their monthly challenge.
June:
Use a time line with at least three photos....find the entire challenge info here...
www.kraftitup.blogspot.com

Here's is my take on the June challenge....
Thanks Kraft It Up for the creative ideas and fun challenges!

Family Time

2011-06-29T11:29:00.005-04:00

Why is it that some of our best memories of childhood are those just hanging out with our family. Not some special birthday party or a magical Christmas gift, but just hanging by Grandma's pool or playing with cousins. I want my girls to have these memories too, I want them to slow down and just enjoy hanging out with their extended family.
silly pictures of them stealing mommy's chair...

relaxing and letting life slow down {just a little}

special moments with sisters....{hopefully this doesn't change as they grow older}

being silly with Grandpa Doc....

the men are grillin machines....Ok, Doc was a grillin machine, Joe was keeping him company this time....

Quality time with Oma....I love when my girls talk about their Oma, the excitement they share with her is awesome to see

she is fast becoming a serious contender at ladder golf....

my handsome hubby....oh so sexy....

Grandpa Doc relaxing...

sweet summer time fruit...yummy...

my sweet grandmother...

mom....

so we sort of dared Alexis to eat the whole container....she gave a good effort, but thankfully she did not succeed at this challenge

she loves her cheese balls...

At the playground

2011-06-28T12:25:00.004-04:00

So when Joe is scheduled on the third shift, it is extremely hard to keep the girls quiet so he can get his sleep. I hate to just set them up in front of the TV all day {although that does keep them quiet}. Yesterday we decided to head to the playground. I grabbed my camera and book and off we went....

Alexis was on the go, she didn't want to stop for a minute....
the girls love the slide and I set up my blanket right at the bottom of this so we got lots of shots from here...

a little creative editing....

I'm so amazed how smart and grown up this little lady is....I'm so proud of her

just chillin....

and the bully who kept telling the other kids the big slide was hers....had to keep reminding her to take turns

then Mikayla came over to take a break with mom....we chatted for a little then Alexis had to potty so we headed back home

Final Catch Up - round three

2011-06-23T10:19:00.013-04:00

Final round of catch up photos for the last two months I missed blogging....

It's really amazing how spunky this little girl can be. She really has a personality that's all her own. She can be very sarcastic for a four year old and some times very naughty. But, she certainly loves to pose for mommy to take pictures.
Mikayla, our little helper....This little girl wants to help in everything she does. She is such an easy going kid and she's a very well behaved young lady.

this was her pose idea....in front of the school building

Mikayla finished up her last season with the U8 group...she will be moving up in the Fall...she has some pretty funny candids here...

what a stride....

here she looks like she knows what she's doing.....you go girl!

some extra photos on the sidelines.....

she almost looks like she's doing a little dance here....{note: she's looking at the parents not at the ball}

now I know where Alexis get her funny soccer face from....again I have no idea what my children are thinking...HaHa

Alexis took a trip with her preschool to a local greenhouse...they learned about all the things that help plants grow....

he really had their attention...

another round of poses.....sorry I just can't get enough of this beautiful little girl

play break....

back to photo op....

Mikayla was invited to a skating party....this was interesting since the girls really never had a good opportunity to learn to skate....lucky for us the skating rink had these clever braces for young learners....sorry pictures are not so great....it was very dark inside the rink.

more soccer candids....this one cracks me up....she was all by herself, nowhere near the ball...and she trips....we really should have named her "Grace"

not quite sure where the ball is, but it looks like they are all headed in the same direction...not sure where all the yellow team is....

sideline shot....

over Memorial Day weekend, we joined a group and went camping near a local amusement park....we spent a few hours at the park....

right inside the entrance is the skylift....as I'm not a huge fan of heights, I quickly volunteered to sit with the little ones and wait at the bottom, on the ground....Joe, Samantha, and Casey enjoyed the ride.

one of the first rides that all the girls went on was the swings...Mikayla was not too fond of the ride...in fact she was crying during the ride, she didn't like it at all....all the rest of the girls loved it

this was a big deal to Joe and I....since we both are retired race car drivers, it was extremely awesome to have a child that was thrilled to get behind the wheel...She was so excited and she did amazing....I think she has it in her blood

just plain thrilled....no hesitation

look at that determination....she had so much fun....and we were thrilled for her

look at her maneuver the turn....she was a little wide....we could help her with that

Alexis was absolutely fearless with all the rides....she was so excited to ride with daddy on this ride....

Mikayla was content with watching from outside the gate...

Sam sat with Mia on the same ride....

Joe's having some fun....Casey enjoyed the seat across from Joe

the ride was really spinning now....and Mikayla was just content watching

the next day we packed up and headed to the pool at the amusement park....as we were waiting for the guys to meet back up with us after they parked we had a little photo op....

the girls in their cool shades....

right before this Mikayla cracked her head on the tree....she put on a nice smile for the camera... they had a great time in the water....it was way too crowded for me....I was ready to go back to the campground as soon as we walked in...Mikayla was in the water as long as she could, she really had a good time...

the older girls took off, so we didn't get any photos of them...

Alexis was enjoying the shallow water, she just kept going up and down the steps..

and my handsome husband enjoying some cold ones back at the campfire...

our school district does a DARE program for all the students in 5th grade...it is run by the local police and they do a nice {very lengthy} graduation for the kids at the end of the year....here Casey received her diploma from the officers

then to my surprise, she got up with a chorus group to sing "Lean on Me"...it was very cool...and yes that kid does have a huge mohawk

Mikayla's soccer team held an end of the year party with the kids playing against the parents...we had a lot of fun and the kids loved the part when they got their medals....their coach also gave them a magazine cover photo...very cool

and of course some candy....

Catch Up - round two

2011-06-22T12:15:00.011-04:00

We'll start off with a little bit of crafts....
Since we have a house full of girls, it is always fun to create a boy theme birthday card for a school mates birthday party. I've had these space stickers in my stock for quite some time....and this gift bag from Target's one spot matched perfectly...

My mother's card for mother's day.....

Let me explain....I am one of those crafters that looks at all the details in craft magazines and when I see a typo or a mistake I'm pointing it out to my husband and ranting "Don't they proof read their work...don't they edit what goes in the magazine"....so for me to make this mistake it does really frustrate me....I noticed that I switched the words just as we were walking out the door to meet up with my mother....I had no time to edit it or redo it....lucky for me, my mother would love it just the way it is

I recently participated in a page swap with some local crafters. I was sent photos and told to make a two page layout. I think the theme matches the feel of the pictures....

page one....

page two....

now back to our crazy kids schedules...

Alexis joined her preschool buddies to celebrate Owen's birthday at the park...Miss Meghen and Alexis....love the shades girl!

Alexis with Meghen's little sister...

Alexis and Mr. Dominic playing bean bag toss....love his face!

the birthday boy....Owen

just swinging...

Now our youngest child has started soccer....let the laughs begin...

She was really excited about starting soccer and she was staying involved, she didn't give up as quick as others....looking forward to watching her continue

look at that boot....

eyes closed and tongue out....????Really Alexis???? HaHa

a running dribble with a smile....

what form....

I'm don't even know what to say about this one....it just cracks me up every time I see it....HaHa...I just have no idea what she was doing?...she looks like she's interpreting a bull getting ready to charge

what a star....

she's the girl....what a pose...

when I see this photo....it makes me think of the soccer memories I have....my girls are the third generation of soccer players and I hope it continues....Joe didn't play soccer, but considering his grandmother and grandfather immigrated from Italy, I'm sure there is more soccer in her blood from daddy's side too

this was at the end of practice...the coach was showing the kids a new technique that they could practice

she really looks like she's paying attention....I think it's a good fake...HaHa

this pose is pretty unique as well..

Casey had a tournament over mother's day weekend....it was great weather and very warm....put on the moves #44

a little run down....{note: absolutely love the views at this tournament...the three fields are located IN an old quarry}

get that ball!....

getting ready to make a play....

extra pictures on the sidelines.....what a beauty!

don't know where she learned this....

and our cool chic on the sidelines....these shades fit her perfectly, she is such a girlie girl

look at this entertainment....she just cracks us up....just for the record the flower pin was in her hair, but the ribbon head band WAS in Mikayla's hair

The team finished in first place....this picture melts my heart....not too many coach's would be so passionate with the team to give a little hug....that's awesome {Note: Joe packed Casey's bag for her and as you can see he grabbed the wrong uniform, he grabbed Sam's old #35...Casey was not too happy about wearing her sister's number}

a happy team member...

Casey loves being part of this team....all these girls really get along and have fun together

we walked to the school to check out the art show....on the way we stopped for some posed shots....

had a little fun with editing....

pretty girls....

love when they get along {which is most of the time}....

the little ham....

Catch Up - round one

2011-06-16T00:32:00.014-04:00

I have such good intentions to stay up to date on my blog...put then life happens....we make some changes that we didn't want to make....and we continue to keep up the busy schedules....

Some photos from our last few months of Garl living...

Alexis at her preschool Easter egg hunt....

showing her teacher all the eggs she found...

Alexis entertaining herself....she didn't even crack a smile when I was snapping pictures....what a bird!

Alexis at her preschool Spring program....

"little bunny fufu"

Easter egg hunt at the church...

so many eggs, she had her cousin, Brianna carry her bag....

Mikayla running all over for eggs....

While sitting on the sidelines of soccer games we have to entertain ourselves....one of my ways is to take pictures of the little girls.....here's my angel, Mikayla....

Enjoying a day at the playground....Mikayla on the rock climbing wall....

sitting on the slide...

Alexis....wanting to hang with the big kids....

Easter egg hunt at Bethel Fire Company....a family tradition {I used to hunt eggs at this very same location many, many years ago}

Mikayla moved to the older age group this year....

and back at oma's....

of course we had to have a round of ladder golf....

not quite sure what this was about...she apparently seems to be in a rush....

does she realize she's wearing a fancy skirt? does she realize it's mostly white? not quite sure when this passion for soccer flipped on, she's been playing for a few years, but this past year she has taken a more serious liking to soccer....

and the actual hunt...come on reach...jump...she never did get that hot pink egg

so pretty....

and little Cassidy was very content just grabbing a few eggs in the middle of the yard....

a little photo fun....picture of the neighborhood....

taking a break....

Casey in a soccer tournament....

and there is more to come.....

Curly hair???

2011-03-19T16:52:00.000-04:00

If you are a hair stylist, proceed with caution....these photos of my attempt to curl Alexis' hair may scare you.....

My creative technique....twist small buns of wet hair...I'm not quite sure how comfy it was to sleep on, but she managed...

Then we take them out the next morning....

ok, was not too happy with the split down the middle...

wow...scary...

look at that poof! lol....she's laughing because she can't see the craziness on her head!

the only way to tame it was to ponytail it....

I'm sure we'll try it again!

Flower birthday card and more...

2011-03-11T10:00:00.000-05:00

For my sister in law's birthday I created a bright girly card....loved those yellow flowers!
Mikayla made a card for 17 year old Alex....outside...

and the inside...

My creation for Alex's birthday....tried for the masculine touch...

love how this turned out....loved the brown, pink, and gray together...

I was digging through some older photos and found these cuties of Mikayla....what a sweetheart!

Too fun not to share....

2011-03-08T13:00:00.000-05:00

just some fun pictures after church one Sunday....

my littlest angel, Alexis....what a personality she has...she is so quirky and silly, but she can be tough and very strong willed

she loves to have her picture taken...doesn't really like to color...likes to draw {a little}....loves to play with toy animals....loves shoes {especially ones she can slip on}....thinks everything is unfair {that's driving me crazy right now}....doesn't like to lose her TV privileges...doesn't like to go to the shop everyday...

likes to make silly faces...loves to drink strawberry milk...loves apple slices with peanut butter {or I should say peanut butter with a few apple slices}....is tall compared to her classmates....

likes to be behind a steering wheel {bikes, scooters, forklift, car, lawnmower, etc.}....not so much into crafts {really hope that changes}...is looking forward to starting soccer for the first time, this Spring....

likes to play games on my cell phone....is not very good about being quiet when daddy is sleeping in the morning....

has her moments when she loves to cuddles....has her moments when she doesn't want to give kisses...likes to chat on the phone....is my little peanut and I love her so much!

and my big girl, Mikayla...loves to help anyone and everyone....is a great leader for her little sister, Alexis....doesn't like that I still give her a bath {says she feels like a baby}....

would wear this style of dress EVERY single day {if I left her}....loves, loves, loves the color pink...loves to learn...is a terrific reader....doesn't empty her book bag like she should....has really outgrown her toddler bed {yes we are on the hunt for the perfect bunk bed set}....

likes to sing in the cherub choir at church....I love my princess, Mikayla....she will always hold a special place in my heart!

Night of Hockey...

2011-03-04T10:00:00.000-05:00

Joe was one of the lucky winners at his work to win some free tickets to a local hockey game. We all went to cheer on the local Reading Royals on Sunday night.

Here we have the typical teen face....
Don't they look thrilled?... Mikayla asked if we were cheering for the Reading Phillies {for those of you that are not local...that is our baseball team...not hockey...HaHa}!

And the game begins...

when I watch football with Joe I can ask him "What did that call mean?" "What was wrong with that play?".....however, that is not the case in hockey....we are on an even playing field with this sport....we have no idea what the rules are!

WOW...that is scary....

Alexis didn't enjoy all the air horns...she has very sensitive ears {no idea where that came from}

mascot...SLAPSHOT...unfortunately we were not lucky to catch a flying T-shirt, not even close

2nd intermission....now they look a little happier...

she doesn't look too miserable in this shot....

and still our ham like usual

self taken shot....they always look bad....

Another self taken shot with Alexis...

He is crazy....He couldn't stay off Facebook even at the game....seriously I think he needs some FB addiction counseling!

more game shots....

or as Alexis would say...."that's when they were playing golf"....HaHa

since I played field hockey goalie I was really intrigued by how ice hockey goalies have to use their legs to cover the goal....it looks like such an awkward position....

when they were stretching at the end of the intermissions, Alexis asked "did the goalie have to go pee?"...I said "no, why?"....she said "because he was doing this" and she did her best to interpret the squatting position....what a bird she is!

And lucky for her, those air horns didn't keep her awake....she slept right through the last quarter....just like her mother, she can sleep anywhere Unfortunately, the Reading Royals lost...but we really had a good time out!

Last of the red/pink challenge....

2011-03-03T17:11:00.005-05:00

Here is the last of the red/pink challenge for the month of February....we did make it all the way through the month.

the 16th....
17th....it was PJ day at school for all the 1st graders....she had lots of pj's to pick from but she picked the ones she just got for Christmas...

18th...

19th...

20th...{skirt counts right?}

21st...

22nd.....

23rd....

24th...

25th....with some funky editing....

26th....

27th....

and a close up....

and the 28th.....

definitely will not be doing this for the month of March...I don't think she would have enough green to go one week!

Words of Encouragement

2011-03-01T14:02:00.003-05:00

" When difficulties are overcome,

they become blessings."

-unknown

I do not recall where I found this...but I find it so very encouraging on a daily basis.

Random pictures....

2011-02-24T12:33:00.006-05:00

This month a crafted up some fun shirts for Alexis and Mikayla. I used t-shirts I had in my stash and fabric from the banner we made for Mikayla. Just invested some time....

Since I'm used to photographing lots of blue eyes, it was fun to zoom in on these handsome eyes....

my crazy kids...

Some February Crafts....

2011-02-23T10:55:00.000-05:00

Random assortment of some projects that I worked on earlier this month....

I knew I wanted to create a layout to display the little kids valentine's from school. I decided on sewing some pockets on a layout. I would like to add two photos on each layout on the bottom right corner, but didn't get them ordered yet.....
This is Mikayla's without the valentine's...
and Alexis' with the valentine's added....

my mother wanted to get some photo albums and use them to hold her recipes. she asked me to spice them up....so I found two packs of two albums in the clearance section at Target for only $2.50 each pack!!!...picked up the small spatulas {2 pack} for a $1 at Michael's....and created.....one for me...

one for mom...

another for me....

another for mom....{would have added her last name as well, but....it's too long to fit the oval..Eisenhour}

Mikayla created this cute valentine's card for a challenge, but I didn't get it posted in time...

Here are the girls valentine's this year....little matchbox cards....

This is a card I created for a Moxie Fab challenge {use a cameo} but didn't get it posted in time...

and the inside...

birthday card for aunt anna....

the inside...

my valentine card for my hubby....made it very quick, but I thought it was fun and cute...

Mikayla's First School Dance

2011-02-22T10:00:00.001-05:00

Mikayla's elementary school hosted a dance for the little kids to celebrate Valentine's this year. It was a very big hit, as we had to stand outside for 30 - 40 minutes just to get in... it was worse than a concert! lol

Mikayla likes to dance but she needs a little warming up....she doesn't just JUMP in....very much like her mother in this department....I usually need a little "liquid courage" before I start dancing.
So she started the night right here....
then she started doing some dancing moves on the side....

posing with some friends...

then she was ready for some dancing....Alexis followed right behind

right foot stomp....

criss cross....I think Mikayla was a little late on this one....

yes...they all really are dancing....

then Alexis hung out with her buddy, Gianna, and they put on some dancing moves...

look at that spin....you go girl!

she fits the foot stomping part perfectly with those cowgirl boots....love it....

Looking forward to seeing them put on their dancing shoes again this Saturday at a youth dance!

February {Family} Challenge update

2011-02-21T10:00:00.001-05:00

And we continue with our February challenge for Mikayla...to wear pink or red every day for the month of February without repeating...
Day 5....daddy left her get dressed, since I had to start work early this particular day...but it did have pink in it so it counts!
day 6...with a little fancy hand pose...

day 7....

day 8....

day 9...

day 10....this was picture day at school....and yes she was ALOT chilly that day

day 11...one of my favorities....I just love this dress with a pair of jeans....

day 12....what for pose is that..HaHa!

day 13....

day 14...Happy Valentine's Day...with some photo editing....this is the shirt I made for Mikayla to celebrate Valentine's Day...

day 15...I'm not sure why, but everytime I see this photo....it reminds me of my cousin Lora, I think it's the big smile.....love it!

more still to come....

February red/pink tops...

2011-02-04T11:19:00.003-05:00

The start of our February challenge...a red or pink top/outfit for the entire month of February {without repeating}....
Day one....this was a snow day and she stayed home all day....lucky for us she was wearing red pj's....
Day 2....again a snow day, but she did get dressed this day

Day 3....and she added a headband {note: I really do not care for this plaid, bow headband...but she likes it...LOL}

Day 4...we were really rushing this morning and as you can see there is a horrible shadow behind her....tried to hide it with some drastic editing, but it really didn't work....LOL

Her shirt really is pink, I didn't edit that.

Some fun misc. shots....

Fashion diva....aka Alexis

what a BIG grin....is this Cheshire Cat? lol

Sketch time....

2011-02-04T10:57:00.002-05:00

A recent sketch shared on Studio Calico blog....
This was my take on the sketch...all the pattern paper is American Crafts. I had so much fun cutting those little owls out that I used them on three projects in a row {that's lame I know, but they are so darn cute!}

Mikayla was in a crafting mood, so she worked on a layout too. So proud of her....it is so awesome to craft beside her....I love it! {She's only 7.}

The challenge that was on Scraptacular's forum last week was to use packaging on a layout. I am notorious for saving packaging, but usually never getting around to actually using it. But here is proof I did...the white piece with teal design is from an Ek Success punch package. Do you see the cute owls? LOL

A great friend of ours celebrated her birthday at the end of January. She, also, enjoys reading and I thought she would enjoy a book review journal. I love how this turned out. So do you think it would be wrong of me to update my own book review journal? I mean I'm not even a 1/4 full in my book...but I loved this cover.

A view of the inside....

Last night I had the class with the group of girls at the local library. The girls had a great time! They are so friendly and fun. I really enjoyed hanging out with them and watching them get so excited about stamping! They made some cute cards!

Embellished picture frames

2011-02-02T22:46:00.002-05:00

Ever since I started working at our local Target store, I've become a {very, very} frequent shopper....I mean who can pass up all the great deals!

This picture frame was in the 75% clearance section after Christmas. I loved the green pattern paper. I added a sentiment and some paper flowers. I can't wait to use this next Christmas.
This little cutey was in the one-spot and the blink was part of the deal! How awesome!

Oh, I have an entertaining assignment going on in the Garl home this month. I looked at Mikayla's clothing in her closet the other week and I made the comment that I bet she could wear pink or red every day for the month of February and not repeat. So we have started our count...I'll try to post the pictures by the week! {I know I'm easily entertained...LOL}

Mini Photo Shot and Sweet 16....

2011-01-26T10:59:00.008-05:00

Please don't mind the very obvious spot that's on my shots....I have eliminated the lens, so I'm certain it is inside the camera....I am just really procrastinating about sending the camera back to the manufacturer...I don't want to go without my camera for more than a day!

This weekend I took some pics of the girls before we headed out to a party. Alexis wanted to pose with one of her many LPS....
Love her new boots....and she loves them too! She is my little peanut!

a little color adjustment...

I was really playing with the color on this one....not sure if I love it yet...

It wouldn't be Alexis if we didn't have some silly faces in there....I saved you and only added a few...

And then it was princess Mikayla's turn....she didn't want to smile at first, but....

then I told her to pretend she was a model and immediately the head tilted to the side...cracks me up....but we got a smile

Sam's turn....the big teenager now...

really bad fake on the smile....

love the crazy eyebrows....

another ham in front of the camera....she really has a nice, genuine smile...

close up on Casey....

I had time Saturday morning {believe it or not} so I made a card for the birthday girl...

Kiara {and I} enjoy quotes, so I wanted to add a quote for her....

had to fancy up the envelope with a few stamps....

At the party Alexis was showing a good friend, Ben, her Leapster game. He is so patient with her...it is so neat to watch them...

another beautiful shot of Casey smiling....

the teens {aka...Cheyenne and Sam} didn't want their picture taken....

Alexis wanted to touch the grass skirt that Kiara was wearing, but she was very shy, so she just stood there behind Kiara for a while with this goofy look on her face....

The birthday girl, Kiara, and one of her girlfriends, Samantha

Once the DJ got rolling, we lost the lights and then no more good photo ops....we all had an awesome time, it was great to get out and listen to music with some great friends!

Teaching kids class...

2011-01-26T10:30:00.000-05:00

I was asked to teach a girls group {Wilderness Club} at our local library the basics of scrapbooking. I did that class a few weeks ago and the kids were awesome! They range in age from about 10 to 14 and they were so excited to do crafts. I had the girls bring in photos and I got supplies for them along with some pages for inspiration....then set them free.

This time I'm teaching them about stamping...and what a perfect time, right before Valentine's Day. I created some ideas that I thought would be easy for the girls to recreate if they would choose to use them for Valentine's to hand to their friends. They'll be creating the same cards I made samples of.

This was my favorite....I just love the teal and hot pink together. Such a clean, simple design, but would be so easy to make lots of them!
and the inside....

I just love this owl design stamp....had to use it. The single letters would make this a little more time consuming to recreate multiples of...

the inside....

A fun little matchbook design....I really think the girls are going to like this idea.

the inside view....

Another easy card to recreate multiples....

the inside....

all together...

I'm looking forward to getting together with the girls next week...I know they are going to have lots of fun! {Plus, I'm getting double the amount of girls this time...they must have enjoyed the first one and passed the word.}

An entire day to craft....

2011-01-21T19:05:00.000-05:00

This past Saturday I joined a group of wonderful ladies at a crop event which was held at our church. It was a very long day for me and Mikayla....we were up at 4:30 to help serve the community breakfast at our church...then at 9 am we moved to the opposite end of the church to share in some crafty time and fun conversation. We were there till 7pm...the last 1 1/2 was very long and I was very tired. I think it showed, because I didn't get much done.... I finished an Easter mini album {sorry no pictures yet} and I made these...
This is Mikayla with your wonderful kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Foltz. This was at the end of the year and the kids hosted a tea party for the parents.

I created the ATC for a challenge this past year and I knew I wanted to use it on a layout for Alexis. This is her very first day of preschool.

SNOW DAY

2011-01-20T22:05:00.000-05:00

This past Tuesday the kids had a snow day!!! Yeah...and I didn't have to work....so we enjoyed the day together.
We spent the day in pjs, ate a yummy breakfast of cheese omelets and blueberry english muffins with strawberry jam, and then had some fun!
We played a game of Skip-Bo...this is a great game for children of all ages. It's great to see Alexis learning her numbers and recognizing the order.
Mikayla enjoyed helping her sister play and she was trying to shuffle the cards, but she needs a little more practice to be a card shark.

CHEESE...

I don't know where she gets these silly faces from!

Then the girls decorated my hair while I read Where the sidewalk ends for an hour. {And let me go on record here...I know this book is a classic, but there are some weird and inappropriate poems in this book.} After I had the girls remove the million barrettes from my hair, Alexis decided to decorate her hair....doesn't she look beautiful?

Maybe about a year ago I made myself a book review journal. My aunt just recently seen it and she said she would like to have one too. She is a very avid reader and would find it useful to list a little summary of the books in a journal. I'm really happy with how this turned out...I'm thinking about replacing the one I have? I seen a card recently that had a similar sun design and I love these colors from Sassafrass.

The inside...and yes I did stamp 15 stars on every page of the this journal.

Her birthday is in February {wow, I have a gift made almost a month ahead of time?...that's amazing!} I hope she likes it.

Love to hear her sing...

2011-01-12T16:21:00.002-05:00

With the addition of a few inches of snow through the night, Alexis now is back into the Christmas spirit and singing Christmas songs.
On our 10 min. ride to the shop today she was singing Joy to the World...using her words....

"Joy to the world cause God has Love,
everything is king,
heaven and nature king
heaven and nature king and
HEAVEN {really wish you could hear how high this sounded...HaHa} and nature king"
It really took everything I had not to laugh out loud so she wouldn't stop. Getting ready to head home soon...I wonder what the entertainment will be on the way home!

Color Challenge

2011-01-11T12:46:00.002-05:00

On the Moxie Fab blog you can join in the color challenges this week. One of the combos...
inspired me to create....

This is a lot cleaner and simpler than I normally do...but I think the flowers are so cute and they can steal the show with this card.

2011

2011-01-04T22:40:00.001-05:00

I don't personally like the word - resolution - so I'm going to share some goals I have for the new year - 2011. {These are in no particular order}...

in 2011 I....

would like to host a family picnic...get the extended family together for laughs and relaxation...we all enjoy a competitive game of ladder golf
will turn the big 34

hope we can enjoy a week long family vacation together {and a few weekend camping get aways}

would like to get more photos of sam and casey...other than sport photos

would love to make more time for family game nights....we all enjoy playing games, just have to make the time

will celebrate my 7th wedding anniversary

will make more play dates for my girls to play with their friends

will learn to relax when life gives us challenges {don't take everything so seriously}

would like to make a better effort at getting more work for our machine shop...and work smoother with my hard working husband

will watch many, many soccer games and practices...

and many, many field hockey events

will celebrate birthdays with the girls....Alexis - 5, Mikayla - 8, Casey - 12, Sam - 14

will play outdoors more with the girls and take lots of photos

this is a big one....I will organize my life! I want to go through the house room by room, de-clutter, and reorganize. Spice it up, make it look like my style....it's not going to be easy...it's going to take lots of time and late nights with little sleep....but I will feel so good in the end.

will complete more challenges and submissions...will get more gifts made...will get cards made ahead of time....will count my layouts for the year

take more photo sessions....get more models to give me practice

will make more time for Joe and I to be alone....have date nights....work at strengthening our relationship

make more sewing projects....more applique shirts....more accessories for the girls...maybe teach Mikayla to sew more than a straight line

stay active in my church....monthly breakfasts...teach sunday school...attend weekly service....maybe start a bible study

Lora and Patrick's Wedding

2010-12-24T10:30:00.001-05:00

One of my cousins tied the knot this month. She and her new husband held their wedding and reception at the Antique Auto Museum, Hershey Pa. I will admit I was a little leery about the location {I was never there before}. However, it was a lovely place to hold the wedding.

The ceremony was held in front of this tree and large picture window. I did not get clear photos during the ceremony, but the girls posed for me afterwards.

And a family laugh....

And one with all of us on the photo....

My aunt Amy and Woody were up from Delaware for the wedding.

While the wedding party took pictures, the guests enjoyed the museum attractions, hors d'oeuvres, and drinks. And look what was on display in the museum while we were there.....It's Herbie the Love Bug!

I would drive this station wagon....

Joe thinks this would be perfect for our family....

I'd go cruising in this beauty....makes me want to go to a drive in theater.

And here is the reception area....what a cool backdrop for our party!

Alexis cutting some moves on the dance floor...

For the dollar dance, Mikayla wanted to dance with Lora....

Congratulations Lora and Patrick...we are blessed to share your memorable day with you both!

Kids Christmas Show

2010-12-23T10:26:00.000-05:00

The company that Joe works for has a program for the children at the local Scottish Rite Cathedral. The children enjoy a magician, Santa, and train displays.
It was full in the display area, but the girls waited patiently and got to see all the displays. This was part of a carnival display.

And the girls had to open their goody bags....

another stuffed animal......

Samantha and Casey were at their mother's for this weekend. Casey wanted to be picked up to join us, but Sam was feeling too old for the event. {Oh, we are so thrilled that she's the great 13!}

We missed the photo op with Santa....so we sat in his seat and took pictures of the girls.

Preschool trip to Sheerlund Forest

2010-12-22T10:23:00.001-05:00

Before we get into the Christmas parties and photos, I wanted to share some activities we have been doing this month.

Alexis' preschool class went to pick out a Christmas tree. It was a cold day up on the hill! But, at least it didn't rain. My bundled up little angel...
look at those eyes {of course they are not looking at the camera}....

After the tree was on the wagon, Alexis was "helping" to bring the tree back....we couldn't have done it with out her.

The guys should the kids how they shake the tree, drill the center hole in the bottom, and wrap it up for traveling. The kids were curious and it kept their attention. She looks so stylish and cool in this photo.

And then of course they enjoyed hot choc. and cookies. Alexis was very upset that she left her cookie to go to the bathroom and one of the other girls accidentally finished Alexis' cookie. Alexis was so funny, she went over to the girl and said "you ate my cookie", but she wasn't mean or yelling. Guess you had to be there, lol.

Random Thoughts

2010-12-06T22:39:00.003-05:00

I'm in a mood tonight....I feel like screaming and venting! I thought I'd try a more positive approach, so I'll just list some random thoughts.

* I really, really, really dislike cold weather...it was really cold today
* I wish it didn't get dark at 4pm already!
* I'm frustrated that our older girls will not take their studies more seriously {what's so hard about turning in homework and studying for tests?}
* I frustrated that I have way too many commitments and I feel like I'm failing by not getting them all done
* I'm so worn out and tired of fighting with Joe
* I want to find a solution that makes our relationship stronger {what is going to work for us}
* I'm tired of struggling with money {and we are more blessed than so many others}
* I'd love to be a stay at home mother/wife
* I have so many ideas for things to do around the house, but I'm out of energy by the end of the day and they just keep going on my to do list
* I really, really need to declutter my home and get rid of things we do not need
* I love eating Chili when it's cold outside
* These girls can brighten my day {everyday}...proud to be their mother * I'm not ready for Christmas....not with gifts, not mentally, just not ready
* I need to focus on the good in all situations

feeling a little better now....

{Belated} Happy Thanksgiving AND Happy Birthday Mikayla

2010-11-28T22:36:00.004-05:00

This little princess celebrated her 7th birthday on Thanksgiving this year. She is probably the only child who was excited for Thanksgiving day..HaHa!
She is an amazing little lady and I just love spending time with her, she truly is special, smart, caring, and fun!
Some current "stats"...
* showing the first grade class how to ace all the tests {she really is a teachers pet...that's OK at this age}
* loves to play "house" with Casey and Alexis
* loves to spin around in dresses...the puffier the better
* looking forward to learning how to sew...soon we'll be working on the Christmas dresses
* loves her new DSi {not just a DS...long story}...I just hope she doesn't figure out how to access the Internet
* loves to play games and spend time with all of her family
* looks like a redneck with all her missing teeth right now
* such a beautiful person...lucky to have her for a daughter!

Happy 7th Birthday Mikayla!

Playing with the sun in photos....

2010-11-17T01:00:00.000-05:00

Over this past summer I tried to make more efforts to take photos and really try to get some unique shots. One of the techniques I admire in other photographers is the "shine" of the sun coming into the photo. I like the shining circle you can catch on the shot. I've tried to be more aware of this and take some photos that grab that shine.
Here Alexis and my mom enjoy a game of bean bags.
And a closer view of my baby...what a beautiful smile. She is so full of joy! Her hair is still pretty crazy....Love her so much!

And a fun shot of sisters. I had them posing for me at a local park. This is completely fake...I prompted them to have those looks, but it's so fun!

Gobble Gobble Day

2010-11-16T21:41:00.003-05:00

Today was "Gobble Gobble Day" for Alexis' preschool class. My goal was to finish our turkey shirts for Thanksgiving Day, but this put the due date a little earlier. So last night I finished up our shirts.
Here's our turkey, um I mean model, ....

For Alexis I made a barrette....

More October Updates

2010-11-12T01:00:00.000-05:00

This should be the last of my belated October updates...{they didn't seem to end}

We made treat bags for Mikayla's first grade class and Alexis' preschool buddies. I seen the moon and ribbon idea online somewhere {sorry I can't give the credit, I don't remember where I seen it}. They were pretty simple to create in large quantities.
Alexis' first Halloween parade...

The class group shot....this was hard to get a good shot...there were a lot of parents in attendance that day! We just love to support our little babies! Aren't they all cute!

The view to our shop is just magical this time of year. I went to pick up Alexis at preschool one day and on the way back I just had to stop and try to save the view. It's so hard to capture the view, it looks so much better in person.

We were actually crazy enough to go camping on the last week of October {Yes, it was very cold...but it didn't rain}. My aunt and uncle joined us for the first time since they just got their RV this year. "Can I check your heartbeat?" Ha Ha

Jesse bought pumpkins for his daughter and our two little ones to carve. Mikayla was into cleaning out her pumpkin....

So much so that she was going at it two hands at a time, lol....

Alexis, however, wanted NOTHING to do with touching the cold, slimy insides! She was good at supervising.

On the sideline at a soccer game...Is it me or does this shot make her nose look huge?

And our little ham....

Pumpkin Festival

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

More belated October events....
One of our family members celebrates her birthday at the beginning of October and this year she wanted a costume party. I had to work so Joe took all four of our girls to celebrate is spooktacular style!
Our church hosts an annual Pumpkin Festival. Joe and I help with some of the carnival games. Here is Alexis "practicing" at the soda pitch stand.

Then she got tired of the "practicing" so she moved on to the sound effect throwing {notice the lips, lol}....

and placing in on the soda bottle {note the stack of rings, lol}.

Design Dollies recently posted challenges....I actually did all three parts {sketch, hearts, and green, white, silver colors} but didn't complete in time to post for the challenge.

Pumpkinland

2010-11-06T01:00:00.000-04:00

The second trip for October was to Pumpkinland. A local flower, craft shop sets up a few kid related adventures and shares the Fall treats with local kids.
I kept telling Alexis that I wanted to get her photo with the mums. She definitely remembered me telling her. When the speaker asked if the kids knew the name of the flower, she was the only one to yell out...Mums! I was highly impressed {and so was her preschool teacher!}

Playing in the adventure area....

I had to beg her to get in the tube to get a picture. She was so busy running around, she didn't want to take the time to slow down and crawl through for me.

But, I really wanted to compare the shot to when Mikayla was on the same field trip, crawling through the same tube.
Inside, they had a small area set up for photos. What a crazy smile...

My beautiful little pumpkin...

Afterwards we went back outside and got some more photos.

Happy {belated} Halloween!