The Paper Boutique

Livia Turns Six!

2009-10-04T12:13:00.005-05:00

Livia's 6th birthday was last Sunday, September 27th.

I will post party pictures later on, but here's a picture of Livia - 6 years old...

Credits:
Paper and Elements from Lil' Stinker by Krystal Hartley at Sweet Shoppe Designs
Template: Inspired by Becca (Treat of the Month) by Bree Clarkson at Sweet Shoppe Designs

And here's one from her 5th Birthday - September 27, 2008

Credits for the baby HERE

FOBTY 10/1

2009-10-04T11:48:00.002-05:00

In effort to try and resurrect my blog, I'm going to do my Sweet Shoppe FOBTY (From Our Blog to Yours) post here from now on.

I've had a pretty horrific last couple of days, which I will post more about later.

But my job today is to post about which season is my favorite and why.

Although I am a little sad to see it so early this year, fall has always been my favorite. I love the smell and feel of the fresh, crisp air. The colors that fall brings are like magic to my eyes. In my eyes, it's the start of a new year (school year for the kids). I love the new back-to-school outfits. I love the structure of our routine and bedtimes. I love that fall and winter seem to bring a time of togetherness, winding down after a busy summer, we tend to visit and spend more time with friends and family. I love the smell of pumpkin and homemade salsa. I love the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meals.

Gosh...what's not to love?

2009-05-31T14:18:00.003-05:00

Well...where do I begin?

It's been soooooo long since my last post. I don't really have a good reason for being so neglectful to my poor lil' blog, other than our internet has been giving me a major headache for at least the past 6 months. But alas, our issues with our internet will all be coming to an end in 3 days...just 3 more days. *insert impatiently tapping here* If I have to see one more "connection interrupted" message...I. will. cry. {and possibly throw myself on the floor kicking & screaming - could be very ugly} We have someone coming out to install our brand NEW internet on Wednesday June 3rd. It will be a very, very happy day for me. No more having to go to Starbucks to do my downloads, submit my ECE assignments, check my emails...and yes, we supposedly still have service. HA!

But in the meantime, I've got lots of happy news too! But I'm going to try and keep this kinda short for now - I've got grass to mow today and I don't want to have to cry over my connection.

A couple of super-exciting things...

The kids will be done school at the end of June! No more twice-a-week trips to town for me (wooooot!), no more up at 7:30am, no more school lunches to pack and rushing in the mornings for the school bus. Can we say YAY?!!

This summer, we are looking forward to more sunny & hot days, than windy or rainy days. We plan to spend our days outside in the yard, playing, swimming and having fun. I am taking a trip to Toronto in July - all by myself!! A much-deserved holiday. And so far, that’s all we've got planned.

I also have some NEW Creative Team news as well!
I am soooooo lucky to be creating for these incredibly talented designers: Heather Roselli and SaraAmarie at Sweet Shoppe Designs (squeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!), as well as for Funky Playground Designs and PickleberryPop!

And with that, I will leave you with some of my latest inspiration {hopefully - internet permitted} and if not, I'll be back once we get our new internet and then I'll be able to pump you full of fun pages!!

Thanks for reading!

*muah*

Okay sorry...no pics today...but soon...I promise!!

Digital Scrapbooking Fall MUST - HAVE!

2008-09-17T20:06:00.003-05:00

Fall has been my favorite time of year for as long as I can remember. It still is, but I was really hoping to postpone it just a little this year. However, a good friend of mine reminded me that no matter how much I am in denial that summer is officially over, fall has already arrived!

So the leaves are changing and dropping quite quickly. The grass no longer needs to be cut every 3 days and my darn roosters are almost ready for...well you know how that story ends.

I love the crispness of fall and the colors are beautiful. We took the kids to the pumpkin patch on Sunday afternoon and had a fabulous time! I have over 200 pictures to scrap of that event alone! hehe And I know the which digital kit I will be using...check this baby out...

Is this not one of the most beautiful, rich fall kits you have ever seen???

I am in love with the colors and the gorgeous elements.

I can't wait to show you the pictures!!

Pictures, pictures....

2008-09-12T13:35:00.010-05:00

Finally, some long awaited pictures! Sorry to keep you all waiting.

Sydney first day of Grade 1...

Livia's First Day of Kindergarten...

And some more recent layouts....

First Days...

2008-09-10T08:00:00.003-05:00

My girls are both gone today. Sydney's first day of Grade 1 was last Wednesday, September 2nd and Livia's first day of Kindergarten is today. What a weird feeling!

Sydney was soooo excited for school and went happily on her way, just like she never skipped a beat. This week she says it's boring, but she's happy that they get a "little" bit of playtime (as she puts it). There aren't many girls from her kindergarten class in her Grade 1 class this year, but I suppose that's okay. She still plays with her friends Carly, Hanna and McKenna at recess and some days she talks about new friends. I can tell that going every day is exhausting for her, she eats supper and can't wait for bedtime! But she's always been the kind of kid that knows her limit.

Livia has been counting down the number of sleeps until today for weeks now!! She has been really excited about going. Last night at bedtime she was starting to make excuses about why she couldn't go to school today and then this morning she woke up with hiccups and said that she didn't want her friends to catch them, so she should stay home. hehe We just carried on like every other morning and by the time she was done her breakfast she couldn't wait to get on that bus. When it arrived, she just jumped on there with Sydney and barely looked back at me. In fact, she almost forgot to give me hugs & kisses goodbye. I guess that's a good thing. I hope she has a wonderful day and I know she's looking forward to seeing her friends Taylor and Natalie in her class this year. I can't wait to hear all about it!!

So here I am feeling a little bewildered...it's just me and Ethan. Charli will be here in a little while, so that will liven things up a little bit...but it's just so quiet.

I'll post those First Day pictures a little later on this afternoon. I'm going to drink my coffee right now.

Memory Game

2008-08-03T13:00:00.002-05:00

Well I have to say that this is pretty sad...my last post was May 30th and now it's August 3rd!! Where has the time gone? Don't tell anyone, but we bought school supplies yesterday. Waaahhhh!!

We've had a super-busy summer, with lots of stories to tell and lots of pictures to update...which I will get to...soon I promise!

But first, I just played this little game on my friends blog and I thought I'd share it with you too.

It's called the Memory Game and here's how it's played...

1. Add a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, it can be anything (assuming it's good!) - something we've done together, something I've said or done, anything you want!!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses.
If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you.

Happy Friday!

2008-05-30T10:23:00.005-05:00

I can't believe that this is the last Friday in May!! Wasn't it just May 1st last week? Feels like it!

We have all been battling this cold for the past week or so and I've still got it lingering in my sinuses. I hate colds.

I have a couple of important announcements to make this Friday...

First, all of my So You Think You Can Design contributions will be available as FREEBIES on my blog until this Saturday, May 31st. So get them while you can!!

I am moving them to my stores on Sunday June 1st, so you will still be able to find them there as well. Thank you all for the emails of encouragement!!

Secondly....this is a BIG ONE!!

I have a HUGE Grand Opening Party to tell you about!!!! Wooohooooo!

This weekend, Sunday June 1st, you do not want to miss this one! This could possibly be one of the funnest, most happenin' grand opening parties of the summer!!!

All the fun is happening right HERE so make sure you stop on by Sunshine Studio Scraps this Sunday!!

Pictures May 2008

2008-05-25T14:28:00.004-05:00

Journalling reads:

my beautiful girl
I can remember bring you home,
a newborn, like it was yesterday
and today, you are 6 years old
and almost finished kindergarten.
You are beautiful inside and out
you are kind and loving
you are silly and smart
And I want you to always know
just how much your are loved...

Full credits HERE

Full credits HERE

Full Credits HERE

Full Credits HERE

Full credits HERE

Love in Paris SYTYCD Week #3

2008-05-22T19:51:00.003-05:00

Here it is! My submission for Scrap Orchard's "So You Think You Can Design" Week 3.
This week we were given a theme and a color swatch. The theme was Love in Paris. I had so much fun designing this kit and really got carried away with the papers and elements! This "not-so-mini" kit contains 7 patterned papers, 5 textured cardstock and over 20 elements in all!

You can download this freebie kit and several others from Scrap Orchard - all you have to do is register and then you can download all of this weeks submissions. Download links are only available until this Saturday - so get them fast before they're gone!!

We've all had rotten colds for the past week and this week it's my turn! I hate being congested and not able to think straight (half the time I can't on a good day!)
The kids and I went away for the long weekend with my Mom. We went to Saskatchewan to visit my Grandpa, my Aunt and a couple of my cousins. We had a good trip and lots of fun!
I finished reading "Remember Me?" by Sophie Kinsella, while basking in the SK sunshine. Came home a little burnt though.

Well that's all that I can think of right now. It's time for the kids to go to bed!

Nite!! :)

**May 25, 2008**

Well I'm sad to say that I did not make it to Round 4, the final round.
But I had sooooo much fun and enjoyed the challenges! Best of luck to all who are participating in the final round and I cannot wait to see who will win the guest designer spot at Scrap Orchard!

So here are the download links for my Round 3 Submission:

File 1
File 2
File 3

Enjoy!!

So You Think You Can Design Week #2

2008-05-14T23:26:00.006-05:00

We had such a crazy week around here, but I got my submission for Week #2 done!

You can download this freebie HERE or take a peek at http://www.scraporchard.com/ to view the other submissions. There are lots of very talented designers our there!!
Image is clickable!

And with that, my friends, I am off to SK for the long weekend!! My Mom and I are taking the kids to visit my Aunt and my Grandpa. Marco is on-call this weekend and has some stuff that he wants to get done around the yard. So we'll be back on Sunday...just in time to find out who makes it to SYTYCD Week #3!!

**May 24, 2008**

Thank you soooo much for all the emails!! Ask and you shall receive!
Here's the download link for this kit...

URBAN ACRES

Happy Mothers Day!

2008-05-11T22:34:00.003-05:00

When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts.
A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child.
~Sophia Loren

Our day today actually turned out to be quite nice. It was looking a little "iffy" this morning, considering we had such a late night last night. We were visiting with friends of ours that just live around the bend from us and we didn't get home until 2am. The kids had a blast though and our little Ethan got his second wind around 10pm and went strong until midnight. We sure don't do this very often, but it was really nice.

So we told the kids that they had to sleep in this morning (yah right!) Sydney was up at her usual time of 7-ish (yikes!), Livia around 8:30am and Ethan just before 9am.
The kids gave me a "decorate your own" Starbucks mug. They had colored on it and signed all of their names, including Daddy's. It was really sweet. Sydney also made me a little something out of clay from her kindergarten class. I'm not sure what to call it, but it's really cute too.

We had a nice breakfast this morning - Marco made pancakes and sausages. Yum! And then we went to town and poked around at a greenhouse - picking out trees that we'd like to have. I bought my Mom a gift certificate for there and then we headed out to their house for a little visit. My Mom painted her bedroom this weekend and it looks awesome! I talked her into going with a few shades darker than what she normally would pick - it looks rich and elegant.

This just in....I made it to Round 2 in So You Think You Can Design!! Wooohooooo!
They had 80+ submissions and had to narrow it down to 50 for Round 2.
So I have yet to read the details for this round, but I think we get to pick what we want to do (last round we designed a mini-kit from selective color swatches).

And I picked up a little treat for myself this weekend.......

Ask me how excited I am about this baby!! Love it!

Anyway, Happy Mothers Day! I hope you all have a wonderful day - you deserve it!

New Layouts

2008-05-10T09:48:00.002-05:00

These little chickies are the newest additions to our "funny farm".
We brought them home from Livia's Jr. K class yesterday. There are 6 of them.

I'm willing to try anything once...should be interesting!

Full credits listed HERE

So You Think You Can Design?

2008-05-05T23:42:00.003-05:00

I am participating in the amazing new contest over at Scrap Orchard! The contest runs for 4 weeks and we will be giving a new assignment to complete each week.

Here is my submission for Week 1 and you can snag this freebie over at Scrap Orchard!

Wish me luck!!

Happy National Scrapbooking Weekend and I've Got a Surprise!

2008-05-02T13:23:00.002-05:00

I have so many goodies to complete this weekend and I am really excited to share them all with you! My CT call ends today and I cannot wait to introduce you to the members of my team!!
I will touch on NSD a little bit later (DS is eating lunch and I just heard his bowl hit the floor - yikes!)....

But I do want to share a little information with you all right now. After alot of thinking, I have decided to retire as an Independent Demonstrator for Stampin' Up! I have really enjoyed creating and selling the products - I believe that they are superior in quality over anything else out there. However, I am seriously addicted to the "digital" world and I want to concentrate on that.

So...I am cleaning out my craft room and although I've got a LONG way to go, I do have some goodies that I wanted to share today.

I am selling all of my Stampin' Up! stamp sets and you can find them all HERE
I will be offering FREE local delivery (Brandon, Manitoba ONLY) to anyone locally that buys my stamps.

Eventually, I will also be clearing out my paper *gasp* stash as well.

So if there's anything you're looking for, please let me know soon before it's gone!!

Thank you all for supporting me over the last couple of years and have a fabulous Scrappin' weekend!!!!

2008-04-24T11:34:00.001-05:00

Please send 2 of your favorite LO's and tell my WHY they're your fav, a link to your fullest gallery and a short bio to

**REVISED** leah_ryden@msn.com (leah underscore ryden at msn dot com). Call has been extended until May 2nd!

Phewwww...what a week!

2008-04-13T20:31:00.002-05:00

This has been the first of many crazy-busy weeks to come! It always starts in May for us, but this year, it's a little earlier. The kids started swimming lessons this week - we are doing the Mondays and Wednesday evenings, twice a week, for 5 weeks. That in itself it NUTS, but we'll be done at the beginning of May, instead of June. We are all swimming this time around, even me, which is totally against my religion to be seen in a bathing suit in public! hehe AND to top it all off, our first lesson (Monday), we all come out of the change room and there's a fire alarm!! Be darned if I am exiting this building in my swimsuit!! We didn't have to evacuate after all, someone, probably a kid, just set it off and it was a false-alarm. What a schmaze!
Wednesdays lesson went alot smoother! We were in my 6pm and out by 7pm, home by 8pm (we did some shopping after).

Thursday night I took Sydney to an Epicure party. I've never been to one of those before and found it quite nice. I especially liked the fruit dips and ordered one of each!

Friday night I had my own little get-together with some girlfriends. I had a Partylite consultant come out with all of her goodies and my living room looked amazing! I was really sad when she took it all down at the end - like I was expecting it to look that way forever. But I will be getting some AMAZING free products, so I am really excited about that! Wanna see what I'm getting?? Darn - I can't find it on the Partylite website, but here's a picture of it that I found on eBay - Partylite Expressions. I'm not going to use it as a table, but take it apart, into the three pieces and hang it at my front entrance. It looks beautiful! I can dress it up for the seasons and it's quite elegant!!

Okay, so I have a little bit of exciting news...which sounds really weird coming from me!

I got a JOB! A real-paycheque JOB!!

I haven't had a "real" job for years!!

I used to work as a lab tech in our local hospital for several years, up until Livia was born and I went on maternity leave. Our mat. leaves are one year and I never went back. I chose to stay home and I started my in-home family day care. I have been doing this for 4 years.
I've thought about getting a part time job off and on for maybe a year now - just for something to do, get out of the house for a few hours, give Marco a chance to hang out with the kids and give me some time to myself - a fun little hobby on the side.
Well last week, I got an email from a friend of mine who is the manager at our local Please Mum. She said that she was looking for someone to work 2 Saturdays and a Sunday per month and she thought of me. YAY! I took my resume in right away and she gave me the job!! I am soooooo excited! This is exactly what I'd like to do - it's only a few hours each shift and it keeps my close to what I know and love - KIDS (and shopping!)
So I went in for my first "training" shift this morning and it went great. I'll start my first real shift next Saturday and I'm pretty excited about it.

So after "work" (hehe) today, I came home and had a nap (hehe). Pretty sad, huh? I must've needed it though - it's been a crazy week. We had a bonfire and roasted burgers and hot dogs for supper and the G's came to join us (my parents). The kids are soooo exhausted from being outside all the time, by bedtime they are ready. We have waited a very long time, a LONG winter, for this - for spring, for warm weather and to be able to spend the majority of our days outside -we live for this!

Anyway, I'm sorry to say, but I do not have a freebie for you this weekend. I'm really sorry, but my computer time has been really limited this week. I promise that I will make up for it!

I also have another little surprise that I have to keep under wraps for a bit, only because I am not ready and my time has been limited. :) So you'll have to wait for a little while.

Well that's my week and I'm probably in for a similar one this week.

Hope you all are enjoying the beautiful spring weather!! I've got baby tulips come up and I'm sooo happy to see them!

I Have Some Exciting News...

2008-04-07T21:46:00.003-05:00

Check it out...check it out!

I am creating for a FABULOUS group of designers!! This is a dream come true - some of my very fav designers all in one group! It really doesn't get any better than this.

So head on over to the Sunshine Studio blog and see what these girls have been up to!

My Baby Boy

2008-04-05T22:02:00.005-05:00

This is Ethan when he was about 10 weeks old. It seems like ages ago...he grew up sooooo fast!

Credits: All paper & embellishments from Butterfly Garden by Pineapple Plantation Designs.

Saturday Quickie

2008-04-05T13:19:00.005-05:00

Is it spring yet? Nope - not here. We just got more snow last night! Waaaahhhh!

It can't last forever, right? Right???

So we took the kids to the "winter" fair yesterday - I don't know why they call it that since it's technically held in the spring. It was the first time that we've got since we've had kids and we probably won't do it again. I can remember, when I was a kid, the petting zoo was awesome! It was totally hands-on and all sorts of animals. Now it's mostly cows, horses and chickens, oh and there was a mama pig with her 10 little piglets - now those were cute! - but other than that, there wasn't a whole lot and they really weren't there for petting. Marco spent his time oogling over the Kabota tractor display...dreamer! Oh and you could enter to win tickets to see Anne Murray - waaaahooooo - uh huh...no thanks!! The Superdogs were cool though - we watched them jump over bars and through hoops - they were hilarious! Some of the dogs were more interested in the other smells or what their owner/trainer was doing. It was cute.

The Care Bears are coming to town at the end of the month and I think I'm going to see if I can get tickets to that. The girls would love it - Ethan probably wouldn't know the difference (and probably wouldn't sit anyway).

Okay so on to today's FREEBIE...

It's a quickie today! I love quickpages and hope that you will like this one too! It's made from my Asian Lantern kit. If you use it, make sure to post a link to your layout here, I would love to see them!!

Hope you have a great weekend!!

Walk With Me Daddy

2008-04-04T01:00:00.006-05:00

Well...by the time I was done this LO I was practically bawling. I took this photo just the other day while we were going for a walk. I love taking photos from behind, it's almost like you step out of the picture for just a moment - yah that probably only makes sense to me - but that's okay. :)

Full Credits HERE

Lookie Lookie!

2008-04-02T10:08:00.004-05:00

***Update: My apologies everyone...this kit is not posted yet at DC. I will update again as soon as it is!***

The colors in this kit are fabulous! This is the preview for this months gift for Members Only over at Digital Candy! The girls worked really hard and Jenny did a great job putting together the preview! So don't forget to go and check it out!!

10 Things I Love Right Now...

2008-04-01T16:13:00.003-05:00

This LO was done for Nicole's (Sugarplum Paperie) "list" challenge on her blog and for the color challenge on the Sunshine Girls blog. I used the Walking on Sunshine collab by the Sunshine Girls. It is soooo fun to play with! Check it out at the Sugarplum Paperie or at Ellie Lash Designs, or Digital Candy to name just a few!

Happy Saturday!

2008-03-29T15:29:00.003-05:00

Who's up for some cheesecake today?

Me me me! I'm always up for some cheesecake!

One of my fabulous day care Mom's brought me a huge piece of homemade chocolate cheesecake on Tuesday morning and to say it was amazing is an understatement!! Marco and I just sat across the table from each other, not saying a word, until Marco says "Are ya' gonna be alright?" hehehehe

It is snowing like crazy outside today! My girls are watching Strawberry Shortcake Spring and are convinced that all we need is a magic wand to make all the snow go away. Hey, it works in Photoshop, doesn't it? :)

And now for your piece of the cake....

Image is clickable or you can click HERE to download.

If you like my designs and would like to see them in a store, please let someone know (or let me know!) I have not heard back from any of the design teams that I have applied for as of yet.

Have a wonderful weekend!!

I Have Been a Very Bad Girl!

2008-03-27T23:28:00.003-05:00

*hehe*

First of all, we have 2-3 inches of fresh fallen snow on the ground!!!
What is up with that? I'm gonna hafta shovel now!

I WANT SPRING!

What exactly is spring anyway? Here, it's the itty bitty inbetween, if we're lucky enough to get any, between winter and summer. Basically, it's about 2-3 months when the weather could go either way and you never know what each day will be like!

Forget it - I want Summer!!

So this morning we left to pick up Livia from school at 11am and walked outside into a blizzard! The snow was coming down so hard and fast, you couldn't see a foot in front of you. Perfect driving conditions. It didn't snow all day, it quit late this afternoon and now I see it's started up again. However, we had to get to town this morning and pick up Liv and we have this railway crossing not too far from our house, down the gravel road, on the way to the main highway. It's at the top of a small hill - we call it the rollar coaster hill because it's so up and down really quick - not a good place for a railway crossing. I always stop or slow down almost to a stop before crossing the tracks on a normal day, but today with all the snow coming down, I creeped up to the tracks, couldn't see anything and then I heard the whistle blow and saw the light!! Holy sh*t! Thank God I had stopped before reaching the tracks. I never would have saw it otherwise!! A little too close for comfort! I felt sick, my stomach was in my feet.

When I got home this afternoon, I made a few phone calls to the railway and am waiting for some guy to return my call. It needs to be a more controlled crossing - lights, gates - the same as the crossings are in the city. So we'll see if I make any progress with that - they're biggest thing is "safety first", so you can bet that I'll playing that card first round!

Anyway, Marco just got called out to work. Poor guy. I hate it when they call him at night.

So...we have this cat that we inherited with our house that we moved in to last July. Actually, we ended up with 2 cats and a dog out of the deal, but this one cat is really something else. They're all outdoor animals. Marco and I are both allergic to cats. However, Cooter, this big orange cat is really sweet. He loves the attention and every day, he sits just outside our kitchen door and peeks through the window, rubs up against it, almost as if to say "look at me! I would make the perfect house cat!"

Tonight, after Marco left, I let him in!! Just for a few minutes (or...you know...maybe 20 minutes...) He was soooo happy! He wandered around in the kitchen and rubbed up against the legs of the chairs and then when I sat down, he was all over me!

I am not a "cat" person. I like other peoples cats - outside. I think mostly because they make me soooooooo itchy! I can't stand to be around short-haired dogs either, but long-haired ones are more tolerable (like our Golden). But I am coming around...quite quickly actually. They're such neat creatures and I love to watch their mannerisms.

Okay so I let the cat in, but it'll be our little secret, okay? hehe :)

I'm Going to be Floating!

2008-03-27T09:00:00.003-05:00

I did it! I did it!! I did it!!!

I drank 3L of water yesterday and I've already downed my first litre this morning!!

Ugh - I hate plain water. I love coffee and diet pepsi.

I don't think I've ever drank so much in one day.

I finished my re-do of my very first kit that I ever made!! It is awesome!

I look back at the kit when it was first done and the difference in my designs is incredible!!

Here is the preview...

Happy Baby

2008-03-24T21:01:00.002-05:00

This is Livia when she was 4 months old!

Credits: Bella by Shabby Princess

New Blog Header

2008-03-24T16:09:00.003-05:00

So my blog header looks totally unproportioned and I don't care, I'm quitting for today! I cannot figure out, for the life of me, how to get rid of the spaces between the top of the blog and the bottom of the header (does that even make sense?)

If you're reading this and you have the answer...give it to me...puhleeezzz! I will send some digi-scrappin' love your way if you can help me out. This is my desperate plee...

On a pretty note though, my banner is from Shabby Miss Jenn...isn't it bee-oootiful?

Laundry Oops!

2008-03-24T12:38:00.002-05:00

Credits: Spellbound QP by Ellie Lash

Sydney's 2nd Birthday

2008-03-24T09:08:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, I was RAK'd by SugarPlum Paperie (my very first RAK!) I couldn't wait to get my hands on her Sorbet Kisses kit with it's gorgeous papers, the flowers are to die-for and I love a little bit of glitter!! I thought this kit would be perfect for Sydney's 2nd birthday pictures.
Full credits HERE.

Hello!

2008-03-22T08:38:00.002-05:00

I've finally signed up for Hello and now I just have to figure out how to use it!! My user name is the same as all digital scrapbooking communities and if you're not sure, feel free to email me!

Have a great weekend!!

What Kind of Easter Egg Are You?

2008-03-21T21:43:00.000-05:00

You Are an Egg with a Human Face

Wacky, expressive, and unique.

What Kind of Easter Egg Are You?

Happy Good Friday!

2008-03-21T15:12:00.005-05:00

It feels so weird to have Easter happening in March this year! I just can't seem to get my head around it being in the same week as St. Patricks Day. But I'm happy for the long weekend, so I'll take it!!

We are having my family over for Easter dinner on Sunday and that's about it for us this weekend. Marco has a job that he's working on today and tomorrow and the girls are going to the G's for a sleepover tomorrow night. We will do our egg hunt tomorrow morning, instead of Sunday. I thought it would be really cool to do our egg hunt outside this year, but it's snowing/raining!! So it'll have to be inside again, just like every other year. At least we have a bigger house this year and more hiding spots!

My Mom told me this morning that some weatherman predicts that it's going to snow right into April. WTH?! Marco told me yesterday that he bets we'll have no snow within 2 days...uh huh. I told him that come Sunday morning, I expect to wake up to all the snow gone!! hehe Maybe in April?

Well I haven't mentioned anything thus far, but I did put in a designer application to a few of my very favorite stores and I am waiting to hear back. I suck at waiting. They weren't having any "official" designer calls, but I figured that it couldn't hurt to get my name out there and try, right? So I'm waiting...

And speaking of designs, here's what I've got for you this week...

Not Too Shabby is what came to mind when I was finished with this one! hehe

I am always looking for creative feedback on my designs, so please share your ideas or comments! Thank you!!

Included are 2 denim pockets - one inside out, a rolled denim cuff, two shabby stitched flowers and two shabby stitched leaves. All are .png files and done at 300 dpi for optimal printing resolution.

Hope you all have a wonderful Easter!

Happy Friday ~ Asian Lattern Mini FREEBIE!

2008-03-13T23:14:00.007-05:00

I love, love, love the colors in this amazing mini-kit!!

This is a partial of a full kit that I am working on - how can you not get carried away with these bright colors?? - but I wanted to give you a little taste and see what you think.

Included are 2 textured patterned papers and 2 coordinating textured solids, an adorable bracket frame and what kit is complete without...a sparkly swirl?? :)

Hope you like it and have a fabulous weekend!!

Click HERE to download.

Counting Crows Saturday

2008-03-08T13:37:00.007-06:00

Here it is people...my better-late-than-never FREEBIE!

These papers were really fun to design! With spring just around the corner, the snow is desperately wanting to melt, it's getting mucky outside, we turn our clocks forward tonight (yay!!) and the birds are starting to return!!!

Thus, I present to you Counting Crows Paper Pack! This pack includes 10 beautifully textured, slightly grungy 12x12 papers. Awesome for those muddy rubber boots, early spring pictures and much, much more!! Enjoy and don't forget to turn your clocks back tonight!! :)

I'm a Loser Baby...

2008-03-07T19:47:00.005-06:00

So last week was the first of many FREEBIE Fridays here and this week...I'm not ready yet!! Aaaahhhhh - I am so sorry! I have had lots of things going on this week and I cannot believe that it is already Friday. I will have something for you tomorrow, I promise!

Yesterday I started my layout for the Sugar Free Challenge at Sweet Shoppe Designs. The inspiration for this challenge is Love/Hate Relationships. This one was easy for me. I knew what I was going to do right away, as I am forever telling people about this relationship...

Credits posted HERE.

Experimentation

2008-03-04T18:57:00.009-06:00

First of all, I just wanted to say a HUGE thank you to all that read my blog, enjoy the freebies and leave a note of thanks! It really makes me smile to know that you've enjoyed my designs. We have reached over 10, 000 viewers!! Wooohooooo!!
Thanks so much everyone and keep comin' back!!

Now on to my experiment this week...check it out!

26 {12x12} totally grunged and dirty denim designs!
Absolutely awesome, totally comfortable, ready for relaxation...the perfect pair of jeans!
Oh and they make your butt look fabulous!

Some inspiration for you....

Well...what do we think huh, huh? :)

Birthday Boy

2008-03-02T20:22:00.001-06:00

Credits: Flergs Rough & Tumble kit from www.scrapbookgraphics.com

Today is Ethan's Birthday and Another Freebie!

2008-03-02T13:22:00.008-06:00

My little guys turns 2 years old today!

He has really brought our family so much joy and happiness over the past couple of years. We are so lucky to have him.

We bought him a GeoTrax train set for his birthday and he loves it! He loves the controller and it's really neat to watch his facial expressions when he's trying to get the train to go. So cute!!

Happy Birthday Sweetheart!

I also have another FREEBIE to share with you all!

This mini-kit consists of 3 fabulous papers and 3 elements. I made this for my entry into the Little Dreamers Design Apprenticeship Program 2008, but it didn't make the cut. There were over 140 applicants and they had to choose only 40 contestants to go to the next round. It would have been fun. I thought it was a really neat idea - like reality TV in the digital scrapbooking world. hehe

There's just something about the color chocolate - whether it be on paper, furniture, clothing...anything (I love chocolate!). I love all papers that I feel like I could lick - they look so good! The pinky colored paper was actually an oops, it used to be a really dark brown, but I loved the outcome so much that it was a definite keeper.

So I hope you enjoy this little guy...click here (or on the picture) to download.

It's Freebie Friday!!

2008-02-29T09:27:00.005-06:00

Welcome to the first of many FREEBIE FRIDAY's at The Paper Boutique!

Each Friday I will have an awesome new treat for you! So make sure to come back often and check it out!!

This Friday, I have a fun new kit for you called Spring Fling!

I had lots of fun designing this kit - I cannot wait for spring!

I love, love, love the papers and there are endless possibilities with the elements. I have to admit, the Easter eggs are my favorite!!

To download Spring Fling, click HERE.

I hope you love it as much as I do and please feel free to share your creations!!

Happy Friday!

Winter Fun

2008-02-26T14:31:00.003-06:00

Photos taken Sunday February 24, 2008

Journalling reads: you guys absolutely love playing outside, it was such a beautiful day that we couldn't let it pass by. Everyone was enjoying the sunshine (except Ethan - he was napping)

Credits: Doofles kit by Kristin Cronin-Barrow at SSD

Snowflakes and overlay by Miss Mint's Winter Sparkle kit at www.peppermintcreative.com

Weekend Layouts

2008-02-24T10:06:00.005-06:00

I love challenges! They inspire me to scrapbook things that I wouldn't usually.

Here's one layout that I did for the All About Me Challenge at Weeds & Wildflowers Designs.

For this layout I used paper and elements from the Believing In You kits.
Everything about their designs in unique and funky. I love it!
I used my own handwriting for the "Always Growing" just to give it a little personalized touch.
No one else will notice, but I know.

And this layout is for the Freebie Challenge on the Weeds & Wildflowers Blog.

Everything used on this layout is from the In Bloom mini-kit and frame freebie.

I wouldn't normally choose a picture like this for this kind of layout. However, in this layout, the picture represents the "Bloom Where You're Planted" in that your family is where your roots come from. Does that make sense?

So this is a picture of Livia, when she was a baby, rocking with my Grandma. Something always to be remembered and cherished.

For Charli

2008-02-21T23:19:00.005-06:00

I have a new kit available!

This one was inspired by a little girl that comes to my day care. She has this vibrant personality and these bright blue eyes and the most kissable cheeks...she is sweet and silly all wrapped up in one! I love her to pieces and we really enjoy having her here. She is my sweet chicken nugget and I am her "ya ya" (I'm teaching her to say Le-ah) :D

Anyway, she has this little dress that she's worn on a couple of occasions and I've always wanted to design a scrapbook kit around this dress. So...here it is!

For Charli...

And a layout...

Spin-A-Lift Sunday 2/17

2008-02-17T16:12:00.003-06:00

I decided to play along with the spin-a-lift over at Sweet Shoppe Designs today. You can check out the details on their blog.

My lift was from MissKims layout What Lies and here's what I came up with...

Journaling reads:

This is Me
29 and Holding.
In your eyes,
I hope I will be
29 forever.
In love with my husband
Cherishing our children
Thankful for the
friends and family in our lives.
Still deciding what
I want to be when I grow up.
Love chocolate & coffee
{and Matthew McConaughey}
Laundry...not so much.
This is Me.
29 and Holding

Credits listed here.

Mmmmmm Coffee...

2008-02-17T10:03:00.001-06:00

You Are a Plain Ole Cup of Joe

But don't think plain - instead think, uncomplicated

You're a low maintenance kind of girl... who can hang with the guys

Down to earth, easy going, and fun! Yup, that's you: the friend everyone invites.

And your dependable too. Both for a laugh and a sympathetic ear.

What Kind of Coffee Girl Are You?

Mr. Valentine

2008-02-11T20:16:00.000-06:00

I couldn't help myself with this one!
Out of the blue yesterday, Marco says "hey...ya' wanna make perogies?"
(we've never made perogies before)
"Today?" I asked "Do we even have the stuff to make perogies?"

We made perogies and they were awesome!!

Layout Credits:
Love You kit by Penny Springmann
Love Struck kit by Dani Mogstad

Ethereal Paper Pack

2008-02-08T20:21:00.008-06:00

e·the·re·al: adjective
Definition:
1. exquisite: very delicate or highly refined
2. airy: very light, airy, or insubstantial

The perfect description for this "Ethereal" paper pack!
Included are 7 beautiful textured 12x12 papers - all are 300 dpi for optimal printing resolution.

Digital Scrapbook Designs for Purchase

2008-02-08T18:07:00.001-06:00

We're going to try doing this for a little while, until I get enough designs together to warrant having a store. In the meantime, I am hoping to get some more designing on the go, learn some new tricks, etc. and maybe have a chance in selling my designs in someone's store.

But for now, here's how this will work...

All of my designs - paper, elements, alphas and kits - will have their own category
"For Purchase" on my blog.
The price per product will be listed underneath the item, including sale prices, etc.

I will accept PAYPAL only on all digital items.
To order an item, please send the total amount through Paypal to leah@paperboutiquedesigns.com

Please be very specific in listing which products you are buying.
Example:
1. Rice Pudding Kit
2. "name" paper pack
3. "name" elements only

I will personally email you the link to the zip files.

I will be available for orders Monday - Friday from 8am (CST) - 11pm (CST).
Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, I am usually around, but will post if I anticipate being away and for how long.

Please Note: My family is my full time job.
I am also an in-home child care provider on a part-time basis.
I am NOT always in front of my computer.
Some times I am away for a couple of hours at a time.

I realize that this is not the most convenient way to shop, but it is my sincere commitment to provide you with the very best customer service that I can.
I will always return your emails as soon as I get them.
This is my promise to you.

Every one of my designs is done with the highest quality.
All papers are 300dpi .jpg images and embellishments are .png files.

That being said...

I appreciate you stopping by - please leave me a note to let me know that you did.

If you ever have any questions or comments, please feel free to email me at leah@paperboutiquedesigns.com and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

Thank you!

Rice Pudding Kit

2008-02-08T17:17:00.004-06:00

Rice Pudding Layout

2008-02-07T20:38:00.001-06:00

Isn't this beautiful?

This gorgeous layout was created by Stacey - using my newest Rice Pudding
digi-scrapbook kit. I love everything about this layout!
You can check out Stacey's gallery over at DST here - this girl is talented!!

Define Your Life WordArt FREEBIE!

2008-01-19T18:21:00.001-06:00

Add a little definition to your digital layouts with this wordart overlay set! Included in this set are 12 definitions, all are done in .png format and are 300 dpi. Light drop shadows have been added for realism. You can download this set here. I encourage your feedback, so if you download this set, please let me know or share your layouts with me! Thank you & Enjoy!

Acreage Life 2007

2008-01-16T19:26:00.000-06:00

I took a tumble yesterday, taking the garbage out to our burning barrel. I stepped on a hard chunk of snow, stepping off the steps, and went right over on my ankle. OUCH! I laid on the sidewalk and cried and said a few choice words, while Fudge just sat there at looked at me.

Needless to say, today was a very non-productive day around my house as far as dishes and laundry goes! However, I don't need my foot to scrapbook and I really enjoyed scrapping this layout...

For this digi-layout, I used Flerg's Strawberry Delight Mini Kit that you can find on her blog here. The "Delight" Word Art Overlay was designed by me.

Brandon Scrapbookers!

2008-01-14T14:14:00.001-06:00

2008 Charity Convention
Convention will be held at the Keystone Center again this year in the Manitoba Room, with shopping in the attached UCT Room. This will give everyone even more space for scrapbooking, shopping and games!

Registration Fees:

Regular Registration: (Jan 1, 08 – Feb 29, 08): $65
Late Registration: (Mar 1, 08 – Mar 31, 08): $75

Fees include: 30 hours of scrapbooking time, free demos,
make and takes, games, prizes and a welcome gift for each guest.

For more information on registration click here.

I will be hosting two classes at convention this year!
In my first class, we will be making a Paper Bag Album and in my second class,
I'll show you how easy it is to start with a 6x6 scrapbook layout, step it up to an 8.5x11 and finish off with a 12x12 scrapbook layout. We will be doing a 2-page spread in this class.

For more information on the wonderful classes/make & takes
that will be offered this year
click here. Registration for classes begins January 15, 2008!

For the Brandon Charity Scrapbookers home page click here.

Retired Stamp Sets For Sale

2008-01-13T21:39:00.000-06:00

I've got them all listed here on eBay...

Free delivery for local winning bidders!!

Please email me if you've got any questions!

My Dad

2008-01-13T16:13:00.000-06:00

My Dad emailed me this picture yesterday. This was taken around 1988 (he thinks) when he was working on the passenger train for CP Rail. I guess I would have been about 10 years old?
Did they not have colored pictures back then? Sure they did?? Could this picture have been taken earlier? Well I took 1988 right from the horse's mouth, so we'll leave it at that for now.

This layout was created using Micheline Martin's Cold Espresso and Sara Amarie's Basically Neutral Elements, both from Sweet Shoppe Designs.

Christmas 2007

2007-12-28T14:06:00.000-06:00

Layouts created using Sleigh Bells Ring Brag Book by Dani Mogstad & Traci Reed
at Sweet Shoppe Designs.

Digital Scrapbooking Kit Ideas

2007-12-28T11:28:00.000-06:00

I found these pictures in a local ice cream shop and knew that they would be perfect in the kitchen of my new house. The day we moved in (july 15, 2007), my girlfriend surprised us with a housewarming gift...

They're beautiful and they are perfectly suited for us and our kitchen. We love our coffees!
I especially love to indulge in a latte or a frappacino every once in a while and now I can enjoy them in my kitchen (without all the extra calories!)

The lovely Lauren Grier is looking for some inspiration for a new digital kit, as posted on the Sweet Shoppe Blog, so of course, I am more than happy to oblige!

My "best ideas" lightbulb usually clicks on right before I fall asleep at around midnight or so...

I would love to find a digital kit that somehow reflects my feelings on how quickly my children are growing. My youngest, Ethan, is going to be 2 years old in March. He has grown up the fastest out of all three! He walked early, talked early and now he's going to the potty all by himself (EARLY!) Livia is 4 years old...going on 14!!
My oldest, Sydney, is going to be 6 years old in just a few short weeks. Wasn't it just last week that we brought her home?

Why does time have to go so quickly? Can't they stay small for just a while longer?

Okay, so those are my ideas. Take it away Lauren.... *muah*

Christmas Eve 2007 Pictures

2007-12-27T21:03:00.002-06:00

We had a really wonderful Christmas!

We are truly blessed with all the love and happiness that we have in our lives.

We have beautiful, healthy children, we have each other, we have a wonderful family and amazing friends...what more could you ask for?

I wish I had more to share with you tonight, but for now just a couple pictures from our Christmas Eve. My layouts are done using Traci Reed & Dani Mogstad's Sleigh Bells Ring Brag Book from Sweet Shoppe Designs - this is a super-cute set and the full page kit is absolutely stunning!! Perfect for scrapping those holiday photos!

Stampin' Up!'s Spring-Summer 2008 Collection Idea Book & Catalogue

2007-12-16T20:00:00.000-06:00

Ummm yah...what can I say? I picked this hot baby up at the PO box on Friday night and did a little happy dance right out there in the snow!! It's sooooo pretty - the catalogue itself I mean. Done up in Groovy Guava...ahhhh.

And the inside....oooohhhhhh....the stuff inside....

It's beautiful...really, really, really beautiful. I love it!

There are lots of really nice new stamp sets and wheels, new alphabets, gorgeous rub-ons, new glitters and OMG - the new designer papers!!!!!!!! It's all really fabulous and I cannot wait until January 1st to put in my first order of the New Year!!

Okay...I'm done drooling! :)

Do you love Christmas movies???

2007-12-14T09:25:00.000-06:00

Come and play over the at the Sweet Shoppe Designs Blog today....

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer playing at our house right now…and for about the 100th time this week! hehe
I love all of the Christmas programs that they have on TV!!My all-time favorite, from childhood, is the original Frosty the Snowman…which I have not seen on TV yet.
Happy Friday!

Stampin' Up! Accessories Retired List!!

2007-12-10T11:04:00.001-06:00

Here we go...it's a long one!

Retired wheels and accessories are available while supplies last, so make sure you place your orders no later than January 1. To keep you informed of inventory levels, we will update this list daily no later than 7:00 PM (MT). Items listed in RED are no longer available.

Item # Product Description

109198 Accents & Elements Borders & Blossoms
109199 Accents & Elements Little Reminders
2109197 Accents & Elements Tagged
100700 Album Leather Post Black 8-1/2x11
105385 Album Linen Post Mellow Moss 8-1/2x11
104520 Album Linen Post Natural 8-1/2x11
104517 Album Linen Post Navy 8-1/2x11
105382 Album Linen Post Real Red 8-1/2x11
105392 Album Linen Ring Mellow Moss 8-1/2x11
104510 Album Linen Ring Natural 8-1/2x11
104513 Album Linen Ring Navy 8-1/2x11
105388 Album Linen Ring Real Red 8-1/2x11
105067 Boxes & Tags Pockets & Pieces Assortment I
105068 Boxes & Tags Pockets & Pieces Assortment II
108798 Boxes & Tags Tiny Takeout Confetti White
107246 Boxes & Tags Tiny Takeout Kraft
105747 Boxes Stamp & Supply Extra Large
105748 Boxes Stamp & Supply Extra Large Divided
105744 Boxes Stamp & Supply Extra Small
105749 Boxes Stamp & Supply Jumbo
105734 Boxes Stamp & Supply Large
105746 Boxes Stamp & Supply Medium
105745 Boxes Stamp & Supply Small
101052 Brayer Attachment Foam
107293 Cards & Envelopes Greeting Very Vanilla Medium
109149 Designer Series Paper Brocade Background
109161 Designer Series Paper Cerise
109162 Designer Series Paper Charbon
109155 Designer Series Paper Creepy Crawley
109152 Designer Series Paper Darling Doodles
109150 Designer Series Paper Dashing
108503 Designer Series Paper Petals & Paisleys
109156 Designer Series Paper Linen Prints
109147 Designer Series Paper Notations No. 2
109148 Designer Series Paper Outlaw
109158 Designer Series Paper Uptown
109157 Designer Series Paper Wintergreen
107285 Envelopes Open End Very Vanilla Large
107284 Envelopes Open End Whisper White Large
107296 Envelopes Shimmery White Medium
107287 Envelopes Square Vellum Large
107310 Envelopes Square Very Vanilla Mini
107294 Envelopes Vellum Medium
107290 Envelopes Very Vanilla Large
107291 Envelopes Whisper White Large
101016 Eyelet Tool Kit
105317 Eyelets Bold Brights II
105379 Eyelets Silver
105315 Eyelets Soft Subtles II
107282 Fancy Fibers Bella
107283 Fancy Fibers Elizabeth
103352 Stampin' Glitter Romantic Red
103349 Stampin' Glitter Silver Shine
106650 Greeting Glue
102620 Liquid Glue
103145 Page Protectors Post 8-1/2x11
104523 Page Protectors Ring 8-1/2x11
103598 Paper Vellum 12x12
105543 Pastel Refills Bold Brights
105544 Pastel Refills Earth Elements
105547 Pastel Refills Neutrals
105545 Pastel Refills Rich Regals
105546 Pastel Refills Soft Subtles
105962 Perfect Layers Tool
104184 Post Extenders
106522 Punch Spring Bouquet Flower
109722 Simply Scrappin' Creative License Hostess Level
1109611 Simply Scrappin' Happy Me Hostess Level
3109596 Simply Scrappin' Out & About
109626 Simply Scrappin' Primary Colors
109649 Simply Scrappin' Round Up
109635 Simply Scrappin' Secret Garden
109663 Simply Scrappin' Winter Bright
107415 Simply Sent Friendship Shapes
109230 Simply Sent Happy Day
105580 Spectrum Pad Blue Frost
101492 Spectrum Pad Celebration
105579 Spectrum Pad Cotton Candy
101336 Spectrum Pad Pumpkin Patch
100000 Spectrum Pad Un-inked
103953 Stamp-a-ma-jig Imaging Sheets Refill
104432 Stampin' Around Cartridge & Ink Refill Clear Embossing
101460 Stampin' Around Cartridge & Ink Refill Whisper White
102391 Stampin' Around Ink Refill Clear Embossing
103017 Stampin' Around Ink Refill Whisper White
103151 Stampin' Emboss Powder Hologram Highlights
105677 Stampin' Kids Pad Bear Brown
105676 Stampin' Kids Pad Beetle Black
105675 Stampin' Kids Pad Boxcar Blue
105674 Stampin' Kids Pad Gumball Green
105673 Stampin' Kids Pad Poppin' Purple
105672 Stampin' Kids Pad Princess Pink
105671 Stampin' Kids Pad Robin Red
105670 Stampin' Kids Pad Yahoo Yellow
103174 Stampin' Pastel Applicators
100852 Stampin' Pastel Erasers
100081 Stampin' Write Marker Going Gray
100945 StazOn Ink Refill Timber Brown
103088 StazOn Pad Timber Brown
107235 Tag Sheets Bold Brights
107239 Tag Sheets Confetti White & Kraft
107236 Tag Sheets Earth Elements
107240 Tag Sheets Kraft
107237 Tag Sheets Rich Regals
107238 Tag Sheets Soft Subtles
100894 Watercolor Brush Flat
101551 Watercolor Brush Medium
101331 Watercolor Brush Small
105395 Wire Works Metallic
105652 Wrapping Paper Whisper White

Stampin' Around Wheels
100360 Acorns
109812 All about Birthdays*
109690 All about Christmas*
109812 All about Gratitude*
109676 Autumn Dots
104070 Bloomin'
107466Bodacious*
105750Bouquet*
107481 Butterflies & Blossoms
104065 Fishy
100267 Happy Jacks
107563 Ho Ho Ho
104312 Hot to Dot
104279 Leaf Prints
106062 Leaves Awash*
107479 Rough around the Edges* 101927 Snowman Fun
107465 Speckled*
105521 Spooky Skyline*
108979 Spotted*
107480 True Hearts
105033 Wings & Things

Create Your Own Tumbler

2007-12-09T21:16:00.001-06:00

Create Your Own Tumbler - $25.00
The perfect way to take your pictures and your coffee with you wherever you go!

We gave my husband one for Fathers Day and he loves taking it to work with him everyday!!
The tumbler shown here was given to my sister as a birthday present - now when anyone asks about her nieces and nephews, she just shows off her coffee cup.

Tumblers feature double wall insulation to prevent condensation and helps keep your hot beverages hot and your cold beverages cold. SAN(Styrene Acrilo Nitrile) Material benefits - crystal clear appearance, stain resistant, odor resistant, not as durable as PC. Durable flip lid helps prevents spills. Fits standard car cup holders.

Handmade Cards

2007-12-08T13:08:00.001-06:00

I have spent countless hours in the aisles of Hallmark and WalMart (to name very few) staring at the greeting cards - picking them up, reading them and putting them back because they are just not what I am looking for. I am looking for cards that have a "personal touch" and say exactly what I want them to and I can never find a store-bought card that has both.
Finding the perfect card is difficult, because every occasion and every person is unique.
Here, you will find beautiful, detailed handmade cards, made personally by me using only the highest quality of supplies right down to the adhesives. You will find cards that are unique and are custom-made to suit every occasion. You will find the personal touches and the card will say exactly what you want.
Ooohhh and Aaahhhs are guaranteed! Your satisfaction is my number one priorty.
Please contact me directly, either through email or by phone, to discuss your order details.

I look forward to working with you!

Leah Ryden
leah_ryden@msn.com
204-726-0960

Themes can include, but are not limited to -

Birthdays
Thinking of You
Get Well
Thank You
Holidays (Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving)
Mothers/Fathers Day
Baby
Miss You

Paper Boutique Designs reserves the right to alter all pre-made designs.
All handmade cards are made with quality products and include an envelope.

Basic cards - one or two layers of cardstock, optional stamped image, minimal embellishments - $3.00

Intermediate Cards - two or three layers of cardstock, optional stamped image using intermediate techniques and embellishments, optional sentiment on the inside of card - $4.00

Advanced Cards - four or more layers of cardstock, optional stamped image using advanced techniques and embellishments, optional sentiment on the inside of card - $5.00

Card Bundles:

Basic Bundle Includes: 10 cards of one design - $20.00 ($2.00 per card/envelope)

20 cards of one design - $30.00 ($1.50 per card/envelope)

Intermediate Bundle Includes: 10 cards of one design - $30.00 ($3.00 per card/envelope)

20 cards of one design - $45.00 ($2.25 per card/envelope)

Advanced Bundle: 10 cards of one design - $40.00 ($4.00 per card/envelope)

20 cards of one design - $60.00 ($3.00 per card/envelope)

5 cards of four different designs (20 cards in total) - $65.00 ($3.25 per card/envelope)

EXAMPLES of Cards...

Custom Scrapbook Designs

2007-12-07T21:41:00.001-06:00

Don't have the time, energy, space or supplies to scrapbook your pictures, but would like a beautifully scrapbooked album to preserve your memories or to give as a timeless gift?

The Paper Boutique offers affordable, quality designs of all different kinds!

Custom scrapbook layouts and albums - PAPER & DIGITAL

Digital Scrapbook Designs - kits, papers, embellishments, alphabets & MORE

Several different sizes and packages to choose from:
6x6 - 8x8 - 8.5x11 - 12x12

Themes include, but are not limited to:
BABY, WEDDING, HOLIDAYS, VACATION, FAMILY

Custom CALENDARS - beautiful designs, your pictures, your special dates
Make the perfect gift for friends and family!

Pre-made or Custom made greeting cards, notebooks and invitations

All of my designs are done with the utmost care and quality.
Customer service is top priority!
Ooohhs and Ahhhhs GUARANTEED!

Stay tuned for more details or email me for a free consultation.

It's a Snow Day!

2007-12-04T10:28:00.000-06:00

Well they were calling for 25-30cm of snow last night and I think we've at least that!
We put up the Christmas lights on our house last night and when we came inside everything was cleared off. Here's Marco shoveling this morning!
Livia's school is closed today, along with the school buses and they're talking about closing the highways as well. This is the first time, in the 3 years that we have been at that Jr. K, that they have closed the school. Marco ventured into town this morning - I'm not sure if it was because he really had to get to work, or if it's because I'm running low on coffee - hehe.
(I was supposed to pick up a pound while I was in town today, but now that's not going to be happening).
So I've got all of my kids home today and only one extra little girl today, my other little girl couldn't make it. I think we're going to make shortbread cookies a little later this afternoon. YUM!
A little something I do with the icing for my cookies, is to add a little packet of flavored Kool-Aid. It not only turns your icing a pretty color, but it gives it a really nice flavor too! You can add the Kool-Aid to taste if you don't want to use the whole packet.

Happy Snow Day!

Digital kit from Sweet Shoppe Designs - Frosty Fingers by Traci Reed.

I Now Present to You...

2007-12-03T11:10:00.001-06:00

My very first digital scrapbook freebie kit - FLIRTATIOUS!
This kit was inspired by Arbonne's FYI Flirtatious Collection and includes 6 textured solid papers, 4 patterned papers, 4 ribbons, 3 flowers and a complete alpha with numbers.
This kit was so much fun to create and I hope that you will enjoy using it.
Please feel free to download this freebie HERE and I encourage your comments and feedback (considering this is my first attempt on a digital kit) - I want to know what you think. ENJOY! :)

Stampin' Up!'s Retired List is Here!

2007-12-01T23:22:00.001-06:00

The new Spring & Summer 2008 Collection is just around the corner and our first semiannual retired stamp set list is here just in time for the holidays! Purchase your favorite retiring sets as a gift to yourself or someone else on your list today before they're gone forever.
Stamp Sets: December 1, 2007 through January 1, 2008
Wheels & Accessories: December 10 until supplies run out (Check back on December 10 for the Retired Accessories List.)

You can view the RETIRED LIST here.

Stampin' Up!'s Dormant List Details:
The dormant list posts December 1, 2007 and includes stamp sets from the Fall-Winter Collection 2007 that are not included in the upcoming Spring-Summer Collection 2008. These sets can be found online, are considered current Stampin' Up! product and are available for purchase until January 1, 2008.
Items from the Holiday Mini will not appear on the dormant list, but they are not retired.

You can view the DORMANT LIST here.

Please contact me today to get your hands on these sets before they're gone!!

Baby It's Cold Outside!

2007-11-28T22:53:00.000-06:00

I've been wishing for snow, just to give the ground that "clean" look. I'm tired of looking at the brown grass, it's not attractive. Well...we've got snow...and it's freezing outside! I think it went from about -2 C to -28 C in a matter of hours yesterday. Brrrrrr!

It was snowing like crazy yesterday and I found myself constantly looking out the window, it looked miserable, yet pretty at the same time. Anyway, yesterday afternoon I see these 3 white cats sitting outside my window off the deck and they're staring inside and meowing "please let me in, puhleeez!" That's what they were saying. I felt so bad for them. By the way, our cats (we have 4 outdoor cats) are NOT white - they were just that covered in snow! I called Marco and asked him if I could put them in the kennel that's in our laundry room (for the dogs). We're both allergic to cats, so we've always said "No cats EVER in the house". Well...there were all four cats, snuggled up in the kennel. You'd think they were in heaven!

I'm such a sucker! hehe

The kids each got a letter back from Santa this week. They were sooooo excited! Livia couldn't believe that Santa actually writes back and as mentioned in his letter - plays the Hungry Hippo game too (it's his fav!!) I thought the letters were really cute.

I created my first digital scrapbook kit this week, so needless to say, I haven't gotten too many layouts done, but I'm really pleased with the way my kit turned out! I can't wait to share it with you!!

I completed one layout this week and here it is...Livia (again)! :)

Livia's Baby Album

2007-11-20T19:28:00.000-06:00

I am so far behind in scrapbooking my kids albums! Sydney's is started and I think I've completed her first 2 years. Livia and Ethan...well I've just recently (like in the past 2 days) started Livia's.
I've decided to digitally scrapbook their albums.

Here's what I've got so far for Livia's...

(all designer kits are from Sweet Shoppe Designs unless otherwise noted)

(designer kit used for this layout is from ShabbyPrincess)

Family Photos Fall 2007

2007-11-16T18:13:00.000-06:00

We got the negatives back from our fall photo session that we did out at our house at the end of September. It takes too long to upload them to my blog, but you can view the slideshow of them at Sabine Chorley Photography or you can try this as well Slideshow.
I love having family photos done! Sabine has a way of catching the kids, just at the right moment, and the pictures just make you go "Awwwww!"
One of my favorites is the black & white of Marco, Ethan & Izzie, walking away from the camera. I am having that one blown up and framed for the wall.
Anyway, let us know what you think!!

Christmas Card Workshop Projects

2007-11-12T09:38:00.000-06:00

It's beginning to feel alot like Christmas...
Even without the snow...
It's beginning to feel alot like Christmas...
Only 42 days to go....

Okay, so thanks to SCS I have that song in my head, only I decided to put my own little twist on it. hehe

It was really, really windy here yesterday and I was sure we were going to get some snow, but for now, the grass is still green. The sun is shining here and it's supposed to be +8C (46F) today.

I am hosting a Christmas Card workshop at 7:30pm this evening and I wanted to share the cards that we are doing. I am pleased with the way they turned out...let me know what you think!

We did up our letters to Santa on Friday. I thought if we did them up early enough, maybe this year I wouldn't forget to send them. I always want to keep them and save them for scrapbooks. But I don't think I'll get away with not sending them this year. I scanned Ethan's, just so I could share...

Have a good day everyone!

Izzie

2007-11-03T22:37:00.000-05:00

Coming up 5 months old and she is getting soooo big! She is getting her winter coat - it is super thick and getting curly. She is such a beautiful dog!

My First Waterfall Card!

2007-11-02T20:09:00.000-05:00

I made this card for a birthday party that Sydney is going to tomorrow and I am so pleased with the way it turned out!! I followed the step by step directions that are posted under the "resources" page on http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/ and this was a super easy project!

All materials are from Stampin' Up!, except for the funky green, circle-y designer paper that I used on the front of my card, that I picked up probably from Michaels. The stamp set that I chose for this card is SU's Bugs & Kisses - isn't it cute??

November Is...

2007-10-28T13:15:00.000-05:00

Handmade for the Holidays Season of Joy Card Making Month!
(among a few other exciting things!)

This is the perfect opportunity to get a head-start on those holiday cards and treats.
We will be making an assortment of 20 handmade cards and envelopes with multiple dates to choose from. Cost for this will be $35.00.
Snacks & refreshments will be provided. Please bring your own adhesive.

Dates to choose from:

Monday November 5th - 7:30pm

Sunday November 11th - 2:00pm

Monday November 12th - 7:30pm

Wednesday November 14th - 7:30pm

Monday November 19th - 7:30pm

Please register early as I have already had requests for specific dates and space is limited!

November is also my anniversary month - ONE year as an Independent Demonstrator with Stampin' Up! It's been a wonderful experience and I would like to thank everyone who has supported me and my creativity over the past year. As a special thank you to all, for the month of November, I will be offering a 10% discount on all orders!

Stampin' Up! Paper Party!
November 1 - 30, 2007
Join the fun this month as we throw a Paper Party -- buy three, get one FREE!
Purchase any three Designer Series Papers and get the fourth one ($13.50 value!) FREE!
No limits, no restrictions.

October Cards

2007-10-23T15:01:00.000-05:00

I hosted a workshop last Wednesday for a great group of girls! We made 4 cards and a Halloween treat bag, but in order to keep the secrecy in our Secret Sister (DDSS) round, I can only post 3 of the cards that we made! hehe

I'm disappointed with the way the scanner picks up the colors of this card - it doesn't do it any justice! I used SU Vintage Violet for the card, Night of Navy for the snowman and the JOY and Whisper White cardstock and ribbon. The stamp set is Perfect Presentation (hostess set).

I absolutely love, love, love fall colors! For this card we used SU Old Olive for the card, along with Chocolate Chip and Whisper White cardstock and a piece from the Halloween designer paper. The flowers are stamped in Pumpkin Pie ink and we used the Pumpkin Pie and Chocolate Chip grosgrain ribbon. The stamp sets that were used are Bodacious Bouquet and Warm Words.

This card is for my BIL/SIL that had a 10lb. baby boy on October 10th. This is their third baby boy and his name is Rhett Taylor. I can't wait to see him!!

I used Barely Banana cardstock for the card and the striped cardstock is from the Spring Flowers (or Showers) designer paper series. I stamped the giraffe and the "sweet heart" from the Bundle of Joy stamp set, using Chocolate chip ink and grosgrain ribbon.

I'm still working on my scrapbook layouts that I completed this past weekend. So I will be sure and post pictures of them soon!

Mom's Club Halloween Digi-Style

2007-10-23T12:45:00.000-05:00

It was my turn to host our Mom's Club this month, so I decided to have a Hallween Costume party and contest. It was lots of fun and really neat to see everyone's costumes! I decorated a Halloween tin and filled it with fall tealights, spider tealight holders and of course, candy and gave it away as a prize for the best costume. Kelly won with her cute little 'ole lady costume!

Here are some pictures from that night...

The digital scrapbook kits are from http://www.sweetshoppedesigns.com/

and the tin is done up in Stampin' Up!'s Halloween designer papers, with SU Pumpkin Pie grosgrain ribbon and black brads.

Scrapbook Getaway!

2007-10-21T22:24:00.000-05:00

I just got home from a fun-filled weekend of good friends and scrapbooking in Winkler, Manitoba. My Mom and I left at 3pm on Friday and drove 2.5 hours to Winkler, where we stayed and scrapped with our good friends (Mother/Daughter), Sherrie and Lana, at the Days Inn until 3pm this afternoon.
Although we were not overly impressed by the "convention host", we had so much fun and we all got more done than we had expected.
The registration for this getaway was $80 and I'm really not sure what all that included. We were given a "gift" package when we arrived, that consisted of a mix-match of papers, a few tacky accessories and some candies.
There was not enough room in the 1st floor meeting room (where all of the "store" stuff was) for everyone, so we were told that we could use the 3rd floor meeting room. It was nice and quiet up there, but we missed out on soooo much that was going on on the 1st floor. There was no actual itinerary for the weekend, so being on the 3rd floor, we got last-minute notice on the classes that were being offered and when stuff went on sale, it was all picked over by the time we were told to come down. We also felt neglected by the host, as we hardly even saw them unless we made it downstairs to the so-called "store". It was a very good thing that we were all experienced scrapbookers.
My only other complaint is that the "store" stock was very limited - the selection was poor.
We expected a large selection of papers and accessories and it was quite far from that. It looked like the left-overs, stuff that was on clearance, were saved for this weekend.

Oh well, live and learn, right? We went, we had fun with each other, we got our pages completed and we know for next year that we probably will not be going back.

So I got 14 pages completed this weekend. Not bad for taking a 6 month break. Now I'm on a roll, so hopefully I'll get lots more done over the next few weeks.
I will be sure to post some pictures of my layouts tomorrow. I also have some cards to post pictures of as well, from a workshop that I did for a group of ladies on Wednesday night.

It was great to get away for a couple of days, just my Mom and I. I needed the break, but I sure missed everyone at home. Looking at those pictures of my sweet little kids just makes your heart melt.

It's nice to go, but it's always nice to come home!

Things We Do in Our Sleep...

2007-10-02T19:48:00.000-05:00

Do you ever wake up and wonder what on earth you were doing while you were sleeping??
I do - more often than I'd really like to admit - but let's just talk about Friday night for starters.

I can remember tossing and turning and then finding Livia in my bed beside me, Marco shoved over to the very edge (like usual). I remember rolling over and then gasping....
My neck...I couldn't move my neck...I'm paralized...How am I going to get the rice krispie wands made for Livia's birthday party if I can't move my neck....My neck!!!!! My chin was pretty well in-line with my right shoulder and it wasn't going anywhere. It just kept spasming every time I tried to breath...*whimper*
Marco helped me out of bed and I spent the rest of the night laying on the living room floor, massaging my neck and keeping an ice pack on it. By morning it was a wee bit better, but still very limited movement.
What did I do?? Is my mouth actually that big that I pull the muscles in my neck when I yawn? Seriously, how could I do that much damage while I was sleeping???
I got in to see a physiotherapist at noon on Saturday and that helped. He put the electrodes on me and then asked me to tell him when it got uncomfortable. Just CRANK IT! I wanted to feel my whole head vibrating on that table.
Anyway, when I left I could move my head, but had to be very careful. I took my daily limit of Tylenol and Advil, kept a heating pad on it every few hours and got my rice krispie wands made around 10 o'clock Saturday night.

We celebrated Livia's 4th birthday on Thursday (Sept. 27) last week, so we had a little birthday party for her on Sunday afternoon. Minus the migraine, it was really nice and she was super excited. I know that her goal in life is to keep up with her big sister and now that she's 4, she's getting right up there.
We bought her a Island Princess My Size doll, a Princess movie, a beauiful 3/4 length sweater, a book and a Princess hairdressing set.
And at her birthday party she got the Island Princess Barbie doll, a glow-in-the-dark Cabbage Patch doll (that has blue streaks in her hair....what ever happened to the original dolls??), she got dress-up dresses, books, stickers, play-doh, and a kitty that you dress-up.
It was funny trying to watch her open her gifts, she just flew through them without hardly even looking at what they were.
Were we like that when we were kids?
Probably....(I'm embarrassed to say)

My dogs have been bringing home chunks of a deer carcus for the past week or so. How lovely... I wanted to find out where it was coming from because I really don't want them eating it, especially Izzie. I remember that if we asked Frazer where something was he would take us right to it (unless it was one of our shoes in which case he hid), but he would always show us where it was. So I'm out in the tall grass by the neighbors house, the direction I saw the dogs come from, and I asked Fudge to show me where it was. He just looks at me like "Duh...I don't know what you're talking about..." and then there's Izzie, who is cowering in the bushes, thinking that she's in trouble. Thanks guys! Yesterday they brought home the entire front leg and I still can't find this darned thing. Oh the joys...

I am finally back in the day care business! Yay!!
It was nice having the time off over the summer, but I was ready to get back into our day care routine at the beginning of September. Yesterday I had my beautiful little girl come for her first day. We were so excited that she was coming and she did so well! I am really looking forward to having her here.

Next week I turn 29...
A year until I turn 30...
How do we feel about that?
Ask me next year.

My Mom & I are going to a scrapbooking convention in Winkler, MB Oct. 19-21.
That's 2 1/2 days of pure scrapbooking, good times, laughs and no children!!
Happy Birthday to me...happy birthday to me....

I have been so lagging behind in my papercrafting. I look at it all just sitting there, longing to go be with my stuff. Maybe this month. Last month was too crazy, I didn't even have time to pee by myself last month.
I signed up for a secret sister round on SCS and I am really looking forward to that. I love sending out goodies and I love finding some in my mailbox! That will also give me a good reason to set time aside to do my crafting.

Anyway, I better go put these children to bed...it's Tuesday...Law & Order SVU should be on soon.

New Adventures...

2007-09-12T11:21:00.000-05:00

Well...this week Sydney & Livia both started school. Livia's first day of Jr. K was yesterday and Sydney went off to Kindergarten today. Wow!
They were both so excited! Livia had a great morning yesterday - she painted, made pictures and said she had lots of fun. We packed Sydney's lunch last night and then took Sydney to school this morning and dropped her off. She put on her inside shoes, gave me hugs and kisses and that was it...she was gone.
Myself, I did pretty good, no tears. It just felt like dropping her off at Jr. K last year, except now she won't be home at lunch time. She will ride the school bus for the first time on Friday. Not sure how I feel about that. The bus will pick her up at 7:35am and then drop her off at 4:50pm. Seems like such a long day for such a little kid. But Marco says "Oh Leah, we all did it." Uh huh...speak for yourself.
I know she'll be fine, but it's my job to worry about her well-being. She does have a friend that will ride the bus with her, so she is very excited about that.
Next week, the girls go to school on the same days, Tues./Thurs., so it'll just be me and Ethan, hanging out. That's going to be weird, but pleasantly quiet!!

We had an amazing summer, busy but it was great! We moved into our new house on the 16th of July and we love it out here!! We always talked about living in the country, but I honestly couldn't see it happening. And here we are...
We have absolutely no complaints, we love everything about it! Our house is wonderful, the space is amazing, the area is beautiful and we have great neighbors.
We inherited a 3yr. old chocolate lab X named Fudge and two outdoor cats named Toby and Cooter with our house. Fudge is amazing with the kids and seems to enjoy having us here. We also brought him home a friend on the 10th of August...our Golden Retriever puppy named Izzie! She was born on the 16th of June and is quite the little lady. She's a typical puppy and her and Fudge quickly became the best of friends.

I will continue to offer child care out here and we have a beautiful little girl starting in October. It was nice to have the summer to spend with just our family, but now that it's fall, it's time to start getting back into our routine.
The girls are starting swimming lessons on the 27th and they will be skating in the learn-to-skate program on Saturdays, starting on the 29th of September. That reminds me...Livia's 4th birthday is also on the 27th of September!! So I guess we'll be planning a birthday party as well.

I will also be getting back into my Stampin' Up! workshops, classes, etc. I am doing a calendar club this fall, starting on September 23rd. We will be scrapping a 12x12 Days to Remember wall calendar in time for Christmas. We will be meeting once a month, from Sept.-early Dec. These calendars make wonderful Christmas keepsakes for family and friends!
I will also be offering classes again this fall and am really looking forward to that.

Anyway, it's time for lunch and then we have to head back into town.

Take care and Happy Fall!

Empty Closets...

2007-07-11T00:36:00.000-05:00

So this is our last week that we will be actually living in our house. We move on Monday!!
Ask me how excited I am?? :D

I am super excited! Pumped!! I can hardly contain myself. I just keep thinking about us living in that great big house, with all that yard to play in and the room that we will have for all of us.
Right now, I can't picture anything more wonderful.

The kids are excited too, I think. Sydney is for sure, she keeps talking about it and telling Livia about all of the cool fun things that we will get to do at our new house. Livia talks about it a little bit, but it's usually after Sydney's brought it up. I asked her the other night, if she was looking forward to it, and at first she said yes, and then she said that she didn't want to move and that our house we have now is big enough. I explained to her, the best I could, that we have outgrown this house, that it's a little squishy in here and that we need more room for all of their toys. That she understood! I think that she thinks I might run out and buy her new toys, but we'll deal with that conversation later....
Ethan just goes with the flow. Whatever's going on, he's there and if he's not, he's off doing his own little things. This kid, he's going to be a country boy! Loves to run, loves to get dirty, loves taking his clothes off...oh yeah, he is definitely going to love it out there!!

I think I'm almost done packing what I can. Most of the stuff is already in storage anyway, so really, there's only the stuff that we use everyday that's left to pack this weekend.

I cleaned out the closets today and that was kind of hard. It's almost as though up until now, I've just been de-cluttering. After I packed away all of our shoes and coats out of the closet, I just stood there and stared at it...empty. Same with the closet in the girls room, all of their games and clothes and any other paraphernalia that one might find...empty.
This is for real. We are actually leaving this house. The house that we bought before we got married. The house that we grieved the loss of Marco's Mother in. The house that I brought my babies home to. The house that we have renovated since day number one, laughing and cursing at each other as we put up all that new drywall, laid all new flooring, painted one room after another...

They say that a house is just a house, it's the love inside that makes it a home. We'll be taking all of that with us, so why does this all of a sudden seem so hard? So surreal?
Will I still feel this way next week, after we're all settle into our new house that is so beautiful?

I'm excited...I am. It's time to turn over a new chapter in our life, in our family and that's always a little bit scary and fun...all at the same time.

It's Official!

2007-06-29T19:07:00.001-05:00

We have gotten approval from the bank, the country property is ours and we are moving on July 16th! What a stressful week of waiting (and more waiting), but it's a done deal now. We will meet with the bank and lawyers next week and I'm going to start packing!!

To see our new house, click on the link in my other post.

The kitchen is beautiful - all done in slate tile and maple cupboards. The living room could probably fit the entire contents of my life, with it's big picture window overlooking the field and it's soft berber carpet. The master bedroom has a nice walk-in closet and an ensuite with a shower (yay for me!) The basement is a perfect family room, all done in laminent flooring, except for the sitting area which is done in berber carpet as well. The laundry room is huge, clean and even has nice flooring in there (I also like the brand new LG front-loading washer/dryer that will be coming with it!) and the storage room is huge, with the possibility of becoming a game room or another bedroom. There is a spare bedroom in the basement and a 3pc. bathroom. The basement is a walk-out too, so that is a bonus!
We will have 7.6 acres and the yard site is well-groomed and has flowers, shrubs and trees. There is a firepit back from the house, closer to the treeline and we will probably put in a larger one someday.

I have the word out that I am looking for a Golden Retriever puppy that will be ready to go in August. I have a lead on one family with puppies and am excited to get to see them.
We really miss Frazer and he would have loved this property. He would have been so excited to have so much room to run and explore.
Someday, I would like to breed Goldens, so for now, we are looking for a female and will get a male in the spring maybe.

Anyway, I promised the kids that we could go out for ice cream (at the Velvet Dip), as kind of a celebration on the new house. It's going to be so hard to leave this one, we brought our babies home to this house....but that's another story.

Happy Canada Day (and long weekend!!)

Our House is SOLD!

2007-06-27T14:17:00.000-05:00

Everything was finalized and we got our sign put up yesterday! Aahhh...it was a happy day!

Now we are just waiting to finalize everything with our bank for the purchase of our new house.

I just wanted to share a few random pictures of our house...

And here is the link to the MLS listing for our new house (pending bank approval...can't they hurry up?? I can't wait until Friday!!)...

http://www.mls.ca//PropertyDetails.aspx?vd=&SearchURL=%3fMode%3d0%26Page%3d1%26vs%3dResidential%26ret%3d300%26sts%3d0-0%26beds%3d0-0%26baths%3d0-0%26bt%3d1%26aid%3d1878%26MapURL%3d%253fAreaID%253d1878%26mp%3d225000-250000-0%26mrt%3d0-0-4%26trt%3d2%26of%3d1%26ps%3d10&Mode=0&PropertyID=5098631

It doesn't look like much from the outside, other than it's clean and well taken care of, but the inside....it's gorgeous! The pictures don't really do this house any justice, it's bigger and more beautiful in person!!

Movin' to the country, gonna eat alot of peaches...

2007-06-25T14:46:00.000-05:00

Sorry, the song is just stuck in my head and I keep singing that line over and over....

WOOOOHOOOOO! Our offer was accepted!!!!! *I'm doing the "we won the lottery" dance*

OMG! We are unofficially moving!!!

I say "unofficially" because we have still yet to finialize everything with the sale of our house and we still need the letter of finance from the bank by this Friday. But if all goes well (and I am praying that it does) we will be moving to the country on JULY 16th - yup...3 weeks from today!!!!

I am so giddy I can hardly contain myself. Marco's trying to hold back, but I can see it, he's exploding with excitement inside too!

I will be sure to post pictures of my brand new house soon!

Lots of Excitement!

2007-06-24T19:12:00.000-05:00

So we lost out on the other house, but that was enough incentive for us to get our house finished and on the market!! Our house went up for sale officially on Monday, June 18th and our first showing was at 10am. These people loved everything about our house and offered us asking price, subject to financing, which will be confirmed and in our hands by this Tuesday at 5pm!!
In the meantime, we've had other showings and the kids & I have spent alot of time in the van this past week. It's been kind of nuts, but what better reason to keep your house spic & span?!

Livia's last day of nursery school was last Wednesday and Sydney's graduation from Jr. Kindergarten was on Thursday. I am pretty impressed, I did not cry. It was really nice though, the kids were super excited to be done and looking forward to what fall brings.

We found an acreage that we really liked yesterday. It is approx. 17km SW of Brandon, 1550 sq. feet, on 7.5 acres. The house is amazing and the yard is wonderful too. We just finished writing an offer to purchase and we will know by 10pm tonight whether or not they accept.

So are we moving?? Definitely soon...but I hate to get too excited before it's all said & done.
I'll update more as soon as I know anything!!

What a Crazy Week!

2007-06-08T00:13:00.000-05:00

This week basically started out just like every other week, the girls go to school, I have my one extra day care girl and we all just go about our days like usual. Except on Tuesday morning, I received a phone call from the real estate agent that we had talked to about the possibility of selling our house...in the near future...next month or maybe more. He tells me about a house that had just gone up for sale and he thinks that I might be interested in seeing it - the yard is apparently to my liking! So I packed up the kids at 1pm and met him over at this house.
House info: 1400 sq. ft., 2 storey, 4 bdrms. up, 1 bdrm. down, 4pc. bath up, 2pc. bath on the main floor, huge fenced yard. So as you can see, my interest peaked.

First impression - this is nice, carpet is a dirty and needs to come out (immediately), needs some paint...oooh gas fireplace...oooohhh brand new kitchen...HUGE yard...quiet neighborhood...same school cachement that we're in now (bonus!). But no big deal - Marco wasn't there and besides, the house had been on the market for only a few hours and already had 2 offers on the table.

We got a call from our real estate agent that night and he told us that the other 2 offers had been rejected, would Marco like to swing by and take a look in the morning? We talked about it and decided that we had better talk to the bank first. The next morning, Marco's decided that he doesn't have time to look at it and we're done with that idea. Seconds later, he's changed his mind and now he wants to see it. Whatever.

So we meet our real estate agent over at this house, he informs us that there is an offer that has been accepted, so basically I figure that Marco's just going to take a wander through, just to get an idea of what's out there in that price range and maybe to get some ideas for when we want to sell our house. I had absolutely no expectations.
We were at this house for an hour and a half and the next thing I know, Marco's telling me that he thinks we should put in an offer. What!!??
I mean, I could definitely picture us living there, definitely enough room for all of us and then some and we are thinking of selling/buying anyway, right?
We put in the offer to purchase and they accepted our offer a 1/2 hour later!!!!!!

Ummmm yah...so I guess we're selling our house...like Monday!

We still have to wait until 5pm tomorrow (Friday), to find out for sure if the house is our's. And then, of course, we have to hear back from the bank.
But in the meantime, I have packed up a good half of our belongings, rented a storage unit and I am preparing to sell!

I am very nervous, a little scared, but definitely excited (with caution). We could actually be moving! Gosh, we've only been talking about this for the past 5 years. This house is all we know, cluttered and congested. Am I going to know what to do with all that extra square footage? Of course I am...I'm going to have a craft room! And lots of kitchen cupboards! And my own closet, in fact, I could probably take 1/2 of Marco's closet too!!

Okay, I'm trying not to get too giddy until it's signed, sealed and 100% done.

But that's been my week...so far!

My Sweet Little Sydney...

2007-05-29T13:51:00.000-05:00

So it's Tuesday...and we're running late, as usual. It's Sydney's day to go to school (Jr. K - she's Tues./Thurs.) and she's pumped because she picked out her own outfit and it's all blue (woohoo)!
We get to the school, do our usual changing of the shoes, sign-in and give her hugs & kisses goodbye. I grab June's newsletter and I'm reading it on my way back out to the van.
Blah, blah, blah...this is our last newsletter of the year...blah, blah...it's been a joy...blah, blah...we are excited because some of the children are going to kindergarten....
And then it hits me! My little girl is going to Kindergarten...in 3 very short months!!
Panic!!

She's going to kindergarten. She can't go to kindergarten! She's still my baby!! She's going to learn things from other people (other children - yikes!) and pretty soon, she'll probably be smarter than me! What am I going to do? Keep her home?
Wow! I knew that this was coming, of course it was coming. But how did this happen so soon?
Darn that newsletter! I was in perfectly good denial before this. Now what?!

Spring Projects...

2007-05-10T20:46:00.000-05:00

Life seems so crazy lately! From about mid-April,
right through until August sometime, we are constantly go, go, go!

Both Sydney & Livia are playing soccer this year. This is Sydney's second year and Livia's first year playing. Sydney is doing great and having lots of fun. She is on the "Red" Timbits team this year. Last year, Livia was mad that she didn't get to play and was very excited about playing this year. Now that it's her turn to play, she wants to lay on her ball in the middle of the field and do somersaults into the net. *rolling my eyes* The first two games were frustrating for all of us and then the 3rd & 4th games, she actually played really well, with lots (and lots) of encouragment. She is playing on the "Grey" Timbits team.

And as for Ethan, he can be the mascot! I'm sure he's wishing it was his turn to play too, but he enjoys running all over the fields and has learned to kick the ball. Maybe next year...

Marco & I are playing slow pitch on Wednesday nights. It is really nice to get out one night a week, together, with no kids. We have an amazing babysitter that has been looking after the kids since we started playing ball last year (when Ethan was 6 weeks old). The kids look forward to her coming and Marco & I look forward to getting out of the house!

So, between soccer and slow pitch, we are running 3 nights a week, Tues.-Thurs. Some weeks it feels like a bit much, but I think it makes you appreciate Mondays and Fridays just a little bit more.

On Thursday this week, the roofers came to put new shingles on our roof. YAY! It took them 3/4 of the day to get the original 3 layers off of our roof and to start laying the new shingles.

This is a picture of the back of our house on Friday, in the pouring rain, with no shingles. Thank goodness it didn't rain all day and that they got the job done! I'll have to take some "after" pictures, our roof looks awesome!

And now for today's project...the Bathroom! Okay, I can hardly contain myself on this one! Do you know how long we have waited to re-do our bathroom?! Ummm...8 years...yah.
Marco started ripping down the walls today and I can tell you, it looks better already! haha

The kids & I will be staying at the G's (my Mom & Dad's) next weekend, so that Marco can insulate, drywall and put in our nice, new, shiny tub/shower, sink, toilet, window and flooring!! No more peep holes in the door either!
WOOHOOOOOO!
*here's me jumping up & down like a child that just found out they're going to Disneyland!*

Okay, I'm better now...LOL

I did manage to accomplish a few little crafty goodies, in and amongst soccer and rubble....

A group of girls and I got together a couple of weekends ago and made some SU! cardstock sampler rings. They turned out great and I think all of us are pretty happy with them.

The lunch tin I altered for one of my spring secret sisters. I am in love with this paper! I used Stampin' Up!'s Petals & Paisleys double-sided designer papers, my spring punch, brads and ribbons. I hope that she likes it!

A very dear friend of mine asked me to make her a card for a friend that's had a baby. This card turned out sooo cute (although it didn't scan very well - the colors are off). For this one, I used So Saffron for the card, layered it with the Petals & Paisleys designer paper and heat embossed the little giraffe. The idea for this card came from SCS and you can see it here.

And for my Mom on Mothers Day...

I bought my Mom a beautiful Gardenia this year. I can't wait until it blooms! The leaves are so shiny and green, they almost look fake!

I made her this card, using Old Olive & So Saffron cardstock, the Petals & Paisleys designer papers, and this great flower from the Doodle This stamp set.

My Mom & Dad stopped by for a quick visit tonight, so we gave my Mom her goodies early. The kids had painted terra cotta plant pots and then planted Petunias to give to Grandma. Funny thing though, we used kids "washable" paints (haha) and then it rained and the kids watered their flowers (and the pot) and the darned paint ran!

Oh well, they've got some extra character now and they're still cute!

Well anyway, that's been our life so far this month.

My Mom & Dad's wedding anniversary (30 something) is next week and my Dad's birthday is the week after and the week after that it'll be something else...

Oh yah, and tomorrow's Mothers Day!

(Here's hoping that I get to sleeping in
(and I'm secretly wishing for that chocolate fountain *hehe*)

I've Been Tagged...Twice!

2007-05-06T21:12:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I had to do some looking and find out what being "tagged" is all about. I am supposed to share 7 facts about myself and since I've been tagged twice, I'm guessing I should share 14?? That's alot of juicy stuff! And...you have to read them all!
There's going to be a test afterwards! Ha!!

So here we go, these ones are for Nancy...

1. I am not a true blonde...really!!??
My natural haircolor is a medium auburn. I have a bit of frizzy wave that drives me absolutely crazy and I would love, love, love to have beautiful bouncing curls, even just for one day. Before my kids were born, the length of my hair was about mid-back and I think (think) I might try to grow it out again, but it's so thick and takes forever to do!! Such decisions!

2. I am a nail-biter and usually have LCN nails to prevent the biting. It's about that time of year again and I should make myself an appointment.

3. My husband asked me today, what I would like for Mothers Day...besides beautiful, expensive jewelry (haha), I love to have pretty toes for summer, so I've mentioned a pedique and ummmm...a chocolate fountain! *hehe*

4. My daily drink-of-choice would be a Venti bold, 2 cream, 2 Splenda from Starbucks. I probably drink a good 40oz. a day. Yikes - I just heard myself say that outloud!

5. My most favorite beverage is a Pina Colada! I get a brain freeze every single time!

6. Marco & I met in the McDonalds drive-thru, 10 years ago this month. I was the manager and he was the hot guy that drove the really nice car (Volkswagon Passat)!! We will be celebrating our 7th wedding anniversary on June 17th!

7. Marco and I have 3 beautiful children - Sydney is 5 years old, Livia is 3.5 years old and Ethan is 14 months old. We also had the most handsome Golden Retriever, Frazer. He was an amazing family dog!! We found out just after New Years this year that he was sick and we had to put him down. He was our first baby.

And now for Alisa's Tag...

1. I do not like balloons - can't stand them! I buy them for birthday parties, but then pop and throw them away right after.

2. Up until this past September, when a friend of mine invited me to one of her classes, I had never heard of Stampin' Up! before I have been scrapbooking for several years, but once I was introduced to card-making, alterables, etc., I was instantly hooked! I signed up as a demo almost right away!!

3. My favorite snack is Nachos!

4. My dream is to live on Vancouver Island someday, somewhere in the Comox Valley.

5. I hate brussell sprouts!

6. I have 2 younger sisters, one that lives in Las Vegas with her family, and the youngest one still lives at home with our parents. I am pretty close with both of them.

7. I am a shopoholic. They make commercials for people like me. I get excited about buying a new brand of toothpaste, conditioner...whatever! I love to shop!!

Now I am supposed to tag 7 people for each tag that I have received...
1. Alesha
2. Allison
3. Kirsten
4. StampinKerry
5. Jill
6. Kraftin'Kimmie
7. AmyR
8. Donna
9. StampMonkeys
10. Emily
11. Mimi
12. Christy
13. Leigh O'Brien
14. stampin-sunnychick (Tracy)

Boy - that was alot of thinking!! I'm gonna have to post my pictures tomorrow...Nite!!

Do You Hear What I Hear?

2007-04-13T13:43:00.000-05:00

My house is silent!
Da-na-na-na...na-na...can't touch this...
*I'm doing a funky dance here*

My girls went for a sleepover (or two) at the G's (code: Grandma & Grandpa)! I am really trying to contain my excitement here!
My Mom picked them up after work yesterday and took them home them for a couple of days and Marco went out for supper with some guys from work. So it was just me & Ethan, hanging out. We went a did a little grocery shopping and then came home just in time for CSI.
What was up with Grey's Anatomy last night? What's with the memoires of the first few seasons/episodes (I can't remember which)? They better not be cancelling that show!
Anyway, I watched ER after CSI, checked my email and went to bed.

My cute little day care kids came this morning, we played outside, had lunch, went for a walk and now...it's quiet time! I just have Ethan and one other little guy this afternoon and they're both napping. I have a couple of things to put together for a birthday party that I'm doing tonight and then I think I'll see if I left any coffee in the pot.

Happy Friday (the 13th)!!!

p.s ~ the sun is shining...woohooo!

Shh...It's Quiet Time!

2007-04-10T22:10:00.000-05:00

Actually, it's bedtime now and that is right where I'm headed...to bed!

My house feels like it's been soooo noisy lately - even at "quiet time". Sydney & Livia don't nap at all anymore and their quiet play in the afternoon hasn't exactly been quiet. So when Marco got home from work tonight, I made a joke about some duct tape and here's what he gave me...

This digi-kit is from the [ Smarshmallows ] collection at www.theshabbyshoppe.com .

Ahhhhhh...*sigh* Good Night!

My First Digital Scrapbook Layout!

2007-04-09T19:39:00.000-05:00

Wow! All I can say is that I am really, really impressed by the digital scrapbooking world!!

There are soooo many incredibly beautiful layouts, kits, embellishments, etc. to choose from. A kid in a candy shoppe is a major understatment!

For my very first one though, I chose the *freebie* FESTIVAL digi-kit from www.shabbyprincess.com . Gorgeous!! I will definitely be making more with this set!

And now for my creation (and I'm off to play some more (after 24, of course))...

Happy Easter!

2007-04-08T20:01:00.000-05:00

What an awesome long weekend! We spent some serious "quality" family time, Marco re-formated and filled our iPod (again) and I got some major production done at my craft table. The kids are excited about their treats from the Easter Bunny, Marco's just thrilled to be going back to work tomorrow and I will be enjoying a nice, quiet day off!!

I can't wait to show you everything I got done this weekend, but first I have to tell you about the amazing Easter dinner that Marco made today...it was soooo good!

We had honey-glazed ham, scalloped potatoes (that combo together is our all-time fav!), pasta salad, carrots & turnip (yuck - I hate turnips, but everyone else enjoyed it), peas and puffed wheat cake for dessert. And now I'm sitting here with my delicious cup of coffee, probably my 5th or 6th cup today. I think we, alone, keep our local Starbucks in business! Just joking.

Okay, so my projects for this weekend...I am so thrilled with them!

First, I want to show you this neat card that I made for my Secret 'Sis. She is a Starbucks addict, like myself, and her birthday is at the end of this month, so I thought this would be perfect! She already knows it's me though, so it's not really a secret anymore and I can share this with you.

Isn't it great?!

I used SU Garden Green cardstock for the actual card and then added a layer of Not Quite Navy, to coordinate with the Starbucks coffee sleeve (that I've saved since Christmas). I cut out the sleeve to look like a plant pot and adhered it to a piece of Whisper White, using those little glue dots. Then I took my SU Spring Bouquet punch and punched out a bunch of flowers in all different colors - Chocolate Chip, Pumpkin Pie, Ruby Red, Cameo Coral and Summer Sun. I added some brads to a few and then used dimensionals to adhere them. Pretty simple, but very cute! I hope that my Secret 'Sis will like it!!

My other project for this weekend was to alter this 8x8 board book that I bought a few months ago and couldn't decide what to do with it.

So, I made this for a spring swap that I am participating in...

Front-Outside Cover & Inside

Inside Cover & Inside Back (there's a little pocket to keep little notes, etc.)

Back

I covered the boardz using the Friends & Flowers Simply Scrappin' kit from Stampin' Up!.

For the calendar, I used Microsoft Publisher and printed off the calendar pages (6"x7") on confetti white cardstock. Each month features adorable graphics that are courtesy of www.graphicgarden.com . I adhered the pages to coordinating cardstock and punched holes at the top to fit the rings and then put it all together. Voila!

I made a few other cards for my Secret Sisters this weekend too, but I can't post them just yet.
They must be kept a secret! *haha*

I am very excited to be doing a birthday party on Friday night this week...Friday the 13th!

One of my closest friends, her daughter is turning 13 and she is inviting a group of girls over to alter lunch tins and to do a couple of cards. I am really looking forward to it and want to make it lots of fun for her and her friends.

Anyway, I have a few things that I need to do before I go to bed tonight, so I better run.

I wish I had some better pictures of the kids looking for their Easter treats this morning, but instead, I have a really good one of Ethan climbing on the kids picnic table after dinner tonight.

Happy Easter!!

A Funny Little Story

2007-03-20T09:44:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine emailed this little story to me and I thought it was too cute (and partially true) not to share! Enjoy!

I was out walking with my 4 year old daughter. She picked up something off the ground and started to put it in her mouth. I took the item away from her and I asked her not to do that. "Why?" my daughter asked. "Because it's been on the ground, you don't know where it's been, it's dirty and probably has germs" I replied. At this point, my daughter looked at me with total admiration and asked, "Mommy, how do you know all this stuff? You are so smart." I was thinking quickly. "All moms know this stuff. It's on the Mommy Test. You have to know it, or they don't let you be a Mommy." We walked along in silence for 2 or 3 minutes, but she was evidently pondering this new information.
"OH...I get it!" she beamed, "So if you don't pass the test you have to be the Daddy."
"Exactly..." I replied back with a big smile on my face.

Boutique Creations

2007-03-18T14:02:00.000-05:00

Birthday Boutique

For this card, I wanted to do something with black & white and just happened to have an extra piece of Real Red Cuttlebug'd with the "Birthday" embossing folder. I used a sheer, black & white, polka dot ribbon that I picked up at Michael's and used my Signo Gel pen for the other white dots. I got to play with my new pair of large scallop scissors, that I used on the bottom and my new 5/8" circle punch for the scallops on the top. I'm not sure which I prefer, but the scissors are definitely not sharp enough for my liking. For the rest of the card, I just used SU's basic black and whisper white cardstock. The scissors I got from Michaels and they are called Paper Shapers Big Cuts by ProvoCraft.

Spring Boutique

I really like the springy-ness of this card! I used the Friends & Flowers Simply Scrappin' kit for the "boutique window" and the center is a piece from SU's double-sided designer paper "Spring Flowers". The card itself is Certainly Celery and the ribbon is SU Apricot. For the scallops on this one, I just used my 1 1/4" circle punch. I think I would do something different at the top, the next time, but I'm not sure what. I'll have to give this one some more thought...

Not-my-favorite Boutique

I love the colors of this card, but I'm not really happy with the layout. It could go either way really, vertical or horizontal. I used SU's Chocolate Chip and So Saffron and then SU's Friends & Flowers Simply Scrappin' kit for the window and Chocolate Chip ribbon at the top. I feel like this card needs something on the So Saffron (besides my name, LOL)??

Happy St. Patricks Day!

2007-03-17T14:35:00.001-05:00

As you've probably noticed and may be wondering, I have changed the name of my blog. Why? Because when I've got a good idea, I have a gazillion thoughts running through my head, I go with the one I like the best at the time and then I like to change my mind.
"The Paper Boutique" I like the sounds of that - cute, classy and chic - all in one! That's me!! (hehe) So the idea behind this blog is just somewhere for me to think outloud, so that my kids will stop telling everyone that Mommy talks to herself. Eventually, I would like the primary focus of my blog to be around my inspirations and paper creations. However, for the time being, it will be a little bit about that, but for the most part, it will be about my life, my kids, my family...also known as "Operation Motherhood" and from time to time, you may have to look at pictures colored with sticky fingers and you will have to comment on how gorgeous they are (even if they're mine!)

Last night, Marco took Sydney to the Wheat Kings game (WHL hockey) and I took Livia & Ethan with me to pick up some groceries. I had given Livia a piece of gum in trying to convince her that hanging out with Mommy was going to be much more fun than going with Daddy & Sydney to the hockey game. We pull into the WalMart parking lot, which is full, and we're driving around to find a decent parking spot. As I pull into this spot and back up a little to straighten myself out, Livia starts hollering from the back seat. I was already shoulder-checking, so I said to her "What is the matter??" She's wailing something about her gum and then I notice that there's a couple of ladies waiting for me to finish parking. So I ask Livia "What about your gum?" (thinking that she dropped it on to the floor or something) and she hollers back at me "It's stuck up my nooooooose!" Up her nose?? That's right, as far as it could possibly go. I get out of the van, open her door (and these ladies are still watching me) and I cannot see a single thing up her nostril. Meanwhile, I'm wondering if I should take her to see a Dr., just to be sure, or what I should do. We decided to go into WalMart, where maybe the lighting is brighter and I can get a better look. Once we're inside the store, she informs me that the gum has gone into her belly now. *rolling my eyes* Only Livia...*sigh*

A couple of hours and $300 later, we're done at WalMart. We've made a mad-rush to the bathroom twice and an extra trip while we're waiting in line at the check-out. How can she go all day without peeing, but as soon as we hit the stores, it's an emergency, every single time!
I am thankful though, at least she is going by herself and doesn't require much help.
So we load up the van and need to make just one more stop, to get gas. I pull up, shut the van off, but leave the keys in just enough so that the DVD player will still play. I used the pay-at-the-pump to save myself a trip into the store and pumped my own gas. I get back in the van, say a few comforting words to Ethan, who is now mad because it's past his bedtime and turn the key to start the van. I wish I could find a way to describe the noise it made, needless to say, my van was not starting. In fact, it was more like chugging, but without turning over. Crap! Our van is a 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT, leased it brand new, never had a problem...so why now? I run into the gas bar, ask to borrow their phone to call Marco, who is still at the hockey game and claims that his phone never rang. Luckily for me, there was a very nice lady behind me, who apparently told her husband of my dilemma and they drove over to help. Turns out, the battery was a little dirty and for whatever reason, wasn't holding a charge. He boosted me, got the van going and we made it home. Had to scrap going for Starbucks though, kind of disappointing, but at least we got home okay. Of course, when Marco got home, I told him what had happened and when he tried to start the van, it started right away, even with the command-start. So now it must have been something that I did...and we'll just leave it at that.

We watched The Guardian last night. It was pretty good - Ashton Kucher was looking might fine. I have to say, I've never really given him a second thought, must have been the movie!

Marco took Sydney to her skating lesson this morning and then he had to go to work for a few hours. The girls and I did some Saturday housecleaning this afternoon. Wow - am I ever turning into my Mother! As a kid, we had to make sure that all of our chores were done before we could go and play, talk on the phone or go out with friends. I hated it at the time, but this work ethic (some of it, not all of it) and responsibility has been instilled in me and now I am passing this on to my own children. Gosh, I could just hear my Mom, in myself..."Girls! This needs to be put away. Whose is this? Where are you? We're not finished yet, you need to come back!" I have to laugh. My Mom should be proud of how she raised me, she did a darned good job, just look at me! hehe My kids will probably think the same thing some day.

Anyway, it turns out that Ethan must have chucked the anti-persperant ,that I had picked up for Marco, out of the cart at WalMart last night, so I guess he'll be needing some and I wanted to sneak out and look for a scallop punch anyway...Happy Saturday!

Food for Thought

2007-03-12T16:06:00.000-05:00

Has something ever caught your eye and you're wondering how on earth that happened or how that got there??
After lunch today I was scrubbing my floor (it needed to be done soooooo badly, especially underneath Ethan's spot) and you always get a different look at things when you're on your hands & knees (just to clarify - cleaning the floor :) ). So I'm scrubbing away and notice that there's some spots of food on the wall. I'm now scrubbing the wall and following the spots of food....practically ALL the way up to the ceiling! How does that happen??!! I'm not even tall enough to reach that far, how on earth did the kids get food up that far? I tell ya', they never fail to amaze me!
We had an amazing weekend, fun-filled with laundry and organzing my craft room.
Can you feel the enthusiasm?? The laundry didn't quite get finished, but my craft room looks all nice and clean. You can walk in here without hurting yourself and I can actually find stuff. It's looks great and I am very pleased with it (thanks to Marco for giving me a kick in the butt!)

I earned a free stamp set from Stampin' Up!, valued at $40.95 or less, based on my sales (my personal purchases actually, haha) during Sell-A-Bration. I am so undecided as to which set I want to get. We have the option of waiting until May, when the retiring list comes out, but I like instant gratification and don't want to wait. I was thinking of getting All Year Cheer II, for the Mothers/Fathers Day sayings, but I think I've changed my mind. I could also get the *new* Doodle This set or something else...must use every penny...Such decisions!

I started Weight Watchers last week and lost 3.8lbs. Yay me! I totally cheat on the weekends and eat whatever I want, but as long as I get my water in, it seems to work for me. One of my closest girlfriends just called me and wanted to know if I was interested in going for a walk after dinner. I'm exhausted, but she bribed me with gossip, so I guess I better go.

And on that note, I better get dinner ready. The sun is shining...Happy Monday!

Create Your Own Tumbler

2007-03-03T18:47:00.000-06:00

I made this for my youngest sister, Lindsay, for her 23rd birthday. Her birthday was last week, so I'm a little late - oops! Good things come to those who wait, right? LOL A few weeks ago, I was in Starbucks and they had these mugs on for $6.99 CDN, so I brought 4 of them home. I made one up for my husband, just before Christmas, and have had tons of compliments on it. I gave an unfinished one away as a door prize at one of my classes just before Christmas. They make awesome gifts, so I thought I'd better stock up.
For this mug, I used the SU Friends & Flowers Simply Scrappin' Kit. Gosh, I just love the colors in this set!! You just use the tumbler template inside the mug and I cut it out with Chocolate Chip. I used the paper piercing tool and my white Signo gel pen for the faux stitching around the edges. I adhered the border along the bottom with Crystal Effects, as I find that once you try to insert your layout into the mug, everything starts to move if it isn't stuck really good. Even so, some of the corners bend a little. So the pictures inside are of my kids, as per her request. :)

Peanut Butter Monster!!
Livia LOVES her peanut butter! She is getting so independent and wants to learn how to make her own sandwiches. Part of me is like - WOOHOO! less work for me - the other part of me is afraid that once you teach her, we'll never get her out of the kitchen. But doesn't she look so cute with her whole arm in the jar?? hehe

Happy FIRST Birthday Ethan!

2007-03-02T13:01:00.001-06:00

My baby is ONE year old today...
Wow! He has grown and learned soooo many new things in the past year. I can't believe how fast the time flies - either we're having too much fun here or Mommy is really lost in her own little world - probably both.

Ethan has been determined to keep up with everyone since he was 3 months old when he started rolling over and then doing the army crawl at 4 months! He was sitting up all by himself at 5 months, crawling on his hands & knees at 6 months old and then pulling himself up and walking around the furniture at 7 months.
By the time he was 10 months old, he was walking and getting into everything!! He waves "Bye bye" and "Nite nite" and reach above his head when we ask him how big he is. He clenches his little, fat fists together and growls to show us his muscles and has even started to have little temper tantrums - so cute!

Now, he is full-out running and only stops if there's food involved. He got his very first teeth (top ones) and his first toothbrush at 11 months. He weaned himself down to nursing 1-2 times per day (or should I say night?!) and started drinking whole milk from a sippy cup. He says "Dad Dad" and "Mum Mum" and knows that if the door opens, Daddy must be home (whether that's the case or not). He enjoys his quiet time, but is always looking for his big sisters and will call out to them if he can hear them, but not see them.

I nursed him last night, for probably the last time. I am so in love with him and am so grateful to have such a happy, healthy little guy. Part of me is sad today though, he's not a baby anymore, he's a little boy. But in my heart, my kids will always be my babies. *sigh*

Happy Birthday baby boy! Mommy loves you sweetheart!!

p.s ~ Ethan got a TMX Tickle Me Elmo for his birthday from a friend of ours. Have you seen Elmo?? He is so freakin' hilarious - I love it when he falls to the floor and kicks his legs!!
I'll have to post a picture later. What a great gift - thank you Elana!

Here is a recent picture of Ethan, enjoying his raspberries at Grandma & Grandpa's house.

Simply Sparkling

2007-03-01T11:17:00.000-06:00

I made up these cute little baby cards for a swap that I was in. I wasn't sure what I would think of the black, but I am happy with the way it turned out! I used the Bundle of Joy set from the new SU Spring Mini, heat embossed him and then added some dazzling diamonds. For the swap, I used the birth announcement stamp from this set and put it on the inside of the card using craft white. You could use any accent color, depending on whether you knew the sex of the baby or not. For the swap, I used Barely Banana and for myself, I used Certainly Celery. My scanner doesn't really do this card justice - it is much cuter sitting here on my desk! First time with the glitter too and I'm impressed (first, because I managed not to get it everywhere and second, because it's so nice!)