2008-366-52-12

2008-05-14T17:14:00.000-07:00

"Discover"

Here's what I've discovered about myself lately. I'm crazy busy. The photo above is so perfect! Yep - my life is like a merry-go-round and I can't quite get off. Or on. Or off. Whatever. The photo perfectly expresses the craziness that I'm feeling. I've been out of town for a week twice in the last 5 weeks and I feel horribly behind. I'm feeling the pressure of catching up not only with all the missing photos on this blog, but with all the missing layouts - there are about 5 now. And I'm behind in so many other areas as well.

I LOVE doing this challenge, keeping this blog. It's been great. I've loved the prompts and being able to express myself both in photos and words. But, at the same time, I have to remind myself that I don't HAVE to do this. I just hate being behind and being in a constant state of catch-up.

SO, I've made the decision to give it up. I need to relieve this feeling of pressure that's beginning to cause me stress. I have projects and obligations that I DO need to do and I've decided to put my energies into those.

So, I want to thank Anna, the creator of this 365 Challenge. I so appreciate the time and thought that she's put into it. Maybe I can pick it up later when things settle down a bit. But with the summer I have ahead, that probably won't be happening any time real soon. I'm just sayin'.... :)

2008-05-13T20:06:00.000-07:00

This week I am bringing back the one word prompts, interpret as best suits you. Wherther this be through your journalling, or/and your photos.

"Play"

2008-05-12T04:27:00.000-07:00

"Just a perfect day
Drink sangria in the park
And then later, when it gets dark, we'll go home
Just a perfect day
Feed animals in the zoo
Then later a movie too, and then home"

-Lou Reed

What is your perfect day - journal

My perfect day begins with sleeping in as long as I want. When I get up, it's sunny, coolish and I have tons of energy, so I start my day with a 2 mile walk. The birds are singing and my thoughts are keeping me company. I come back and have coffee and a quiet time of devotions, planning and praying. In this perfect day, my house is already perfectly clean and all my projects are finished and caught up. So, what I have before me is a day full of potential, a day in which I am free to do whatever I want. That's my perfect day. I would do some scrapping, have some computer time, do a little reading and my husband would fix a fabulous dinner (yes, he can!) that we would enjoy in the perfect summer evening temperatures out on our deck. My day might end with our kids (and assorted wives, fiances and children) or some close friends coming over to sit on the deck with us, sharing laughs and meaningful conversation. I'd fall into bed content and thankful for the wonderful blessings God has given me, read a little and fall into perfect sleep...

2008-05-12T04:24:00.000-07:00

"There's nothing you can do that can't be done.
Nothing you can sing that can't be sung.
Nothing you can say but you can learn how to play the game
It's easy.
There's nothing you can make that can't be made.
No one you can save that can't be saved.
Nothing you can do but you can learn how to be in time
It's easy.
All you need is love, all you need is love,"

-Beatles

I'm going to be a mother-in-law again. In August. And this time a little bonus comes along with this blessed union. That would be little Eva, there in the photo. Yep. That's a pretty sweet package deal there. If I had to pick a granddaughter from all the little girls I know, Eva would be my first pick by a landslide.

2008-05-10T08:59:00.000-07:00

"If I lay here
If I just lay here
Would you lie with me and just forget the world?
Forget what we're told
Before we get too old
Show me a garden that's bursting into life"

-Snow Patrol

My world is pretty crazy busy right now, so I'm just craving some "lying around" time, for sure. And this swing is one of my favorite spots to land. Right now spring is beginning to put on a pretty great show. I can practically see the leaves unfolding, the birds are in symphony mode, there's a zillion shades of green, the fresh smell of all that's new is in the air. I LOVE this time of year and I love being able to just relax and take it all in.

2008-05-09T15:13:00.000-07:00

"Summertime, and the living is easy
One of these mornings
You're going to rise up singing
Then you'll spread your wings
And you'll take to the sky"

- George Gershwin

2008-05-08T07:08:00.000-07:00

"Don't ever say you're on your way down,
God gave you style and gave you grace
And put a smile upon your face"

Cold Play

Back home again - and that's something to smile about. I love being home. I don't know about style or grace, but God definitely put that smile on my face! ;)

2008-05-08T07:06:00.000-07:00

FOR WEDNESDAY, MAY 7TH

"Need a little time to wake up
Need a little time to rest your mind
You know you should so I guess you might as well
What's the story morning glory? "

Oasis

So whats up today?

Today, I flew home from Madison. I left fairly early, so yesterday really was my last visit with Mom. My flights were uneventful, albeit bumpy. Chris picked me up in State College and, after a detour to Target, we ate at Mad Mex. YUM!

FOR TUESDAY, MAY 6TH

2008-05-08T07:03:00.001-07:00

"You are the sunshine of my life
That's why I'll always be around,
You are the apple of my eye,
Forever you'll stay in my heart"

- Stevie Wonder

This was my last day to visit Mom in Madison. Mom has a long, tough road ahead and she's not happy about it. But, despite her expression in this photo (I don't think she realized SHE was being photographed, too!), we did have some great chats and a really special, good visit.

2008-05-05T07:10:00.000-07:00

"The time to laugh is when you don't have time for it."

- Argus Poster

2008-05-04T04:07:00.000-07:00

"Out of chaos comes the dance of balance."

- Denise Kester

2008-05-04T04:06:00.000-07:00

FOR SATURDAY, MAY 3:

"Love the moment, and the energy of that moment will spread beyond all boundaries."

- Corita Kent

2008-05-02T19:31:00.000-07:00

"There's no time like the pleasant."

- Oliver Herford

This is just after a shower at Mom's. I love the light that comes in through the blinds in her bathroom...

2008-05-01T05:48:00.000-07:00

“A house is made of walls and beams; a home is built with love and dreams”
(annon.)

2008-04-30T06:48:00.000-07:00

"Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you"

- Frank Lloyd Wright

Nature - God's creation - is where I feel the most at peace. I love it so much. It's why I wanted to build our home in the woods. There's nothing like waking up each day with "nature" goin' on right outside your window. We have lots of birds and wild animals around all the time. There's nothing so soothing as the call of the wood thrush in the evening or the sound of the wind finding its way through the pines. Nothing like standing on your front porch and smelling the fragrance of spring or the freshness of a summer rain. Nothing like the quiet after a newly fallen snow. Nothing like wiggling your toes in the cool grass or crunching through fallen leaves. And have I mentioned the ever-changing beauty of each season? I love it all. God's creation has never failed me.

2008-04-29T06:53:00.001-07:00

“If you are seeking creative ideas, go out walking. Angels whisper to a man when he goes for a walk.”

- Raymond Inmon

And that's why I like to walk alone - and in silence... :)

2008-04-28T07:31:00.000-07:00

Find a quote that expresses how you feel after 119 days of taking self portraits!

"Take the time to come home to yourself every day." ~Robin Casarjean

This is the 365 (or shall we say 366) Challenge and I have to say it has been challenging so far.

I don't always have time to take a photo - of me or of anything. And I do try to usually take them of myself, but sometimes something else just works better for me. (And, after all, this is MY blog, if not my challenge...) And, I certainly don't always feel like taking a photo of myself - especially my "raw" self - unmade-up and all. And when I DO take photos of myself, I've been challenged to be more creative with the taking of said photo. Lately, I've tried doing my own challenge within the challenge. For instance, during the week of the 7 virtures, I tried to focus on the eyes. I know - I pretty much got a lot of the same photo, even though they were all taken on a different day... And this week, I've tried to take more far away photos. (And it's not that I love my face so much, I just love my body even less... or photos OF my body, anyway!)

But, it's been fun. And I picked the quote that I did because, in the end, this challenge gives me a chance to think about my own self a little each day. A chance to think about what I'm doing, what I'm thinking and what I think about what I'm doing. So, I'm still in it - and ready for another 119 days...

2008-04-27T05:06:00.000-07:00

“Great opportunities to help others seldom come, but small ones surround us daily. ”

Sally Koch - author

2008-04-26T06:59:00.000-07:00

“Live with intention. Walk to the edge. Listen hard. Practice wellness. Play with abandon. Laugh. Choose with no regret. Appreciate your friends. Continue to learn. Do what you love. Live as if this is all there is.”

Mary Anne Radmacher - author

Living with intention. It's kind of like being able to live your life about a step or two in front of yourself. Not so you're missing the moment. But so that you can actually think about your next step instead of just taking it with either little thought or just out of habit or routine. Then, when you get to the actual moment, you're ready to fully live it.

2008-04-25T07:11:00.000-07:00

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”

-Eleanor Roosevelt - First lady

Follow your dreams! What are your dreams?

I am SO following my dreams and it's wonderful! It was my dream to be home full time. It was my dream to be the boss of my own time. It was my dream to be able to scrap to my heart's content. It was my dream to apply my scrapbooking in some sort of professional way. If you call being on a design team professional (and I do!) then I am living my dream! I have scrapbooking projects and tutorials and more up to my ears - but I am LOVING it. I'm not dreading, not tired of it, not burned out. I feel phsyched and just want to be scrapping all the time. After being home (in retirement) for about 6 months and still not being tired of scrapping, still craving MORE time in my scrap room, I knew that THIS was my dream. It's beautiful!

2008-04-24T07:34:00.000-07:00

“Just don't give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there's love and inspiration, I don't think you can go wrong"

-Ella Jane Fitzgerald - Jazz vocalist

This quote is at the top of my list this week for many reasons, what does this quote say to you?

Because then, you'll be doing what makes your heart sing and when you do what makes your heart sing, not only do you yourself benefit, but everyone around you benefits either directly or indirectly.

2008-04-23T06:59:00.000-07:00

"Still round the corner there may wait, A new road or a secret gate.”

- JRR Tolkein, author

2008-04-22T13:10:00.000-07:00

"The real man smiles in trouble, gathers strength from distress, and grows brave by reflection.”

- Thomas Paine

I love this quote. I do like to smile a lot; I'm an optimistic person. But I love the rest of the quote, too. Because you can't smile all the time. Not every situation is smile-worthy. But every situation can be an opportunity for growth, a lesson learned, an experience from which you can gain the ability to empathize with others who will go through the same thing. Everything tests and hones our character.

2008-04-21T11:35:00.000-07:00

PRUDENCE - 1 : the ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason 2 : sagacity or shrewdness in the management of affairs 3 : skill and good judgment in the use of resources 4 : caution or circumspection as to danger or risk

Now there's another word we don't really use too often - prudence. It reminds me of former Pres. George Bush. And the Beatles.

I'd say I practice prudence pretty regularly. I'm not a big risk taker or trouble maker. I like to avoid danger, pain, discomfort, making mistakes and risking my reputation. I believe that since I have put myself "out there" as a Christian and since I do serve in a few leadership positions, that I have a responsibility to God, to my church to my family and to myself to be discerning about the impression that I leave. I don't feel that I have to sacrifice "who I am" to do so either - because that IS who I am...

2008-04-20T04:41:00.000-07:00

TEMPERENCE

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia:

Temperance is the practice of moderation.

Classically, temperance was defined as governing natural appetites for the pleasure of senses according to the bounds of reason. No virtue could be sustained in the face of inability to control oneself, if the virtue was opposed to some desire; this is why it is classified as a cardinal virtue, where "cardinal" signifies "pivotal."

The virtues of abstinence, chastity, and modesty are considered sub-classes of the virtue of temperance, as it governs the practice of eating and drinking, practice of sexual intercourse, and the restraint of vanity.

There's a word you don't hear much anymore - temperance. Yet, the idea has stood the test of time. Today, we throw around the phrase "everything in moderation" and moderation is the process of eliminating or lessening extremes (again, from Wikipedia). While, certainly, there are some things that I don't even want to do a "little", for the most part, I agree that moderation is a pretty good standard to go by.

2008-04-19T06:40:00.001-07:00

JUSTICE

Justice is a collective term that can be divided into two broad categories: just behavior, the treatment of others with genuine respect and in an equitable manner, and the administration of law, in which a judge or panel of judges, a magistrate, or a jury enforce legislation, with the objectives of protecting victims and lawfully punishing perpetrators.

Since I'm not a judge or anything like a judge, I'm going with the first category of definition. I think that in the world I live in, the times I live in, justice is a diminishing trait. I think we are self-absorbed, busy in our own little worlds, always in a hurry. I think we depend too much on ourselves. I think we often think the world pretty much revolves around us. (In this commentary, I admit that the words we and us pretty much means me and me.) It's hard to respect others when you're all caught up in yourself, huh? I mean, really, how often do we (okay - I!) treat others "just" as I would want to be treated? Friends, people I love, yeah, sure. But how about casual acquaintances. Or strangers. How about people I (there I said it) don't like?

Tough thoughts.

2008-04-18T07:02:00.000-07:00

FORTITUDE

The virtue of fortitude, or courage, is firmness of spirit, steadiness of will in doing good despite obstacles in the performance of our daily duty. It suppresses inordinate fear and curbs recklessness.

Just thought it would be interesting to take a look at the definition of fortitude. I'm afraid if I say I have it in most circumstances, then I will be tested! ;)

2008-04-17T06:23:00.000-07:00

CHARITY

The word charity is used in the Bible to mean love. I think most people just associate the word with giving to others. Certainly, giving to others in need is important, but there's so much more. It's all about the love. Look at these wonderful verses - in the King James Version, which uses the word charity for love:

1Co 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
1Co 13:2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
1Co 13:3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
1Co 13:4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
1Co 13:5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
1Co 13:6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
1Co 13:7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
1Co 13:8 Charity never faileth:

I highlighted verse 3 because there you can see that giving to others is not enough. Not in God's eyes, anyway. It must be accompanied by love. Those are really challenging verses there. It's all about love. Love matters.

2008-04-16T19:37:00.000-07:00

HOPE

There's two kinds of hope. The "i wish" kind and the kind we're talking about here. This hope is the looking forward to what has been promised. As in eternal life. As in forgiveness. As in Christ coming back some day. This is my hope. Without this hope, life would be so - finite. Death would be feared. I would question my sense of purpose and worth in this world. But I don't have to. Because I do have a hope. Thank God.

2008-04-15T07:14:00.000-07:00

The Seven Heavenly Virtues

FAITH -

Okay, I think I'm going to like this week better than last week! ;)

Faith. My faith is my response to God's love, grace, mercy and forgiveness towards me. It's central to my life, my purpose, what I do and who I am. I feel that I have an unshakeable faith because I have an inkling of Who God is and He is utterly trust-worthy. I may fail, but He will not. I hope that when I die, if nothing else positive is said about me, it will be said that I was faith-full.

2008-04-14T11:51:00.000-07:00

SLOTH - is the avoidance of physical or spiritual work

Do I keep saying that "this" is the one I really struggle with? Okay, so I guess I need to face the fact that I really struggle with this one, too. That makes 3, wait 4. No. Five. Five that are problems I need to work on more diligently... Thank goodness for God's grace and forgiveness!

2008-04-13T06:16:00.001-07:00

GREED - is the desire for material wealth or gain, ignoring the realm of the spiritual. It is also called Avarice or Covetousness.

2008-04-12T07:41:00.001-07:00

ANGER - is manifested in the individual who spurns love and opts instead for fury. It is also known as Wrath.

I definitely struggle with anger sometimes. Rarely outside of my own home, though. I think anger is just the flip side of hurt. But it's one of those things that, if not properly taken care of, can deteriorate into all sorts of bad emotions, such as bitterness and resentment. If I would react with the hurt (rather than supressing it because, well, it's PAINful) I think it might be easier for the target of my anger *coughcoughdhcoughcough* to receive. The anger always want to be first in line to rear it's ugly head...

2008-04-11T06:21:00.001-07:00

LUST - is an inordinate craving for the pleasures of the body

I think menopause has pretty much put the ki-bash on that!

2008-04-10T08:07:00.001-07:00

GLUTTONY - is an inordinate desire to consume more than that which one requires

I made this photo as ugly as I could because gluttony is ugly. Yes. I ate the crackers.

2008-04-09T17:53:00.000-07:00

ENVY - is the desire for others' traits, status, abilities, or situation

I don't think I'm an envious person. To not be envious insinuates that I am content with what I have, that I don't desire what I don't have. Well, when it comes to "stuff", I think I can pretty safely say that's true. But, sometimes, I am envious of relationships that people have. Or of people's shapes or sizes. (By the way, I couldn't care less if it's someone I don't know, but when it's someone I DO know - that's where I can sometimes stray.) I can be envious of attention someone else might be receiving that I'm not. Or if someone else accomplishes something I thought I held license to. Pft! How dare they? Stuff like that. I don't like it when I feel that way, but, there it is.

2008-04-08T22:42:00.000-07:00

The Seven Deadly Sins

PRIDE - is excessive belief in one's own abilities, that interferes with the individual's recognition of the grace of God. It has been called the sin from which all others arise. Pride is also known as Vanity

I dislike pride when I see it others. I hate it when I see it in myself.

2008-04-07T08:17:00.000-07:00

“Habit is the 6th sense that overrules the other 5"

Arab Proverb

Do you have a habit, be it a good one or a bad one

I have many habits, mostly neither good nor bad - just habits. Such as always having 2 cups of coffee in the morning, checking email 1st thing on the computer, arranging the pillows just so when I get in bed, brushing my teeth just before putting on make-up and many many more. I have several bad habits - like staying up too late, putting off exercise, eating past full, not fully listening when people are talking because I'm thinking about what I'm going to say - to name a few. But, thankfully, I also have some good habits - I clean up after myself, I balance the checkbook weekly and pay bills on time, I DO r.s.v.p. when asked to, I show up on time for appointments, I organize my photos and digi elements right away instead of letting it pile up, I smile - a LOT.

2008-04-07T00:00:00.000-07:00

13/52

Credits: Papers, journaling stamps, flowers - Tooti Frooti by Merideth Fenwick; Alphabet - Warmheart by Merideth Fenwick (Posh Collection); Fonts - Century Gothic (journaling); Impact (Quote)

2008-04-06T15:41:00.000-07:00

“I would rather have eyes that cannot see; ears that cannot hear; lips that cannot speak, than a heart that cannot love”

-Robert Tizon

Carrying on with our theme of the senses this week

I don't know - love really hurts sometimes...but when it works right, it's an immeasureable joy.

2008-04-05T08:50:00.000-07:00

"Touch"

One of my favorite things to touch on a daily basis is my sweet little Rocky.

2008-04-04T07:46:00.001-07:00

"Taste" - sweet, sour, salty, sharp

Mmmmm, sweet and creamy, I have yogurt for breakfast almost every morning.

2008-04-03T22:09:00.000-07:00

"Smell"

Waking up and smelling the coffee is one of my favorite things to do!

2008-04-02T19:09:00.000-07:00

"Hear, listen"

What do your ears hear today?

Today, I was actually still in Madison and one of the best things I heard all day was the waitress at Mariner's Inn ask for my order! But, when I'm home, my favorite sound is actually silence - well just the "natural" sound of the quiet that comes from living in the woods. When we can fling open the windows again, it will be gentle breezes, birds singing, spring rain. When I'm not indulging in silence, though, I love to listen to my favorite music - and that will be whatever I'm in the mood for on that particular day - from classical to traditional Irish, to Christian rock to folk ballads - whatever.

2008-04-01T07:58:00.000-07:00

"Look, see, view"

What do you eye spy today?

Ha! "Eye spy" two bags filled with goodies from Archiver's and the Dress Barn - two stores that I don't have near where I live so when I'm in Madison I like to take advantage. Especially Archiver's which is scrapbook heaven to me!

2008-03-31T07:47:00.000-07:00

"The greatest gift that you give yourself is a little bit of your own attention."

- Anthony J. D'Angelo

Do something for you today

Today was just a quiet day at (my mom's) home with Mom, Chris. I tried to squeeze in some time to work on my new digi class. It was difficult during the day, but I did finish my first lesson in the wee hours while jockeying with two computers. (Chris's has PSE, Mom's doesn't, but Chris can't get online here, so I have to use my mom's computer to see the online lesson...interesting.) We also watched one of my new favorite movies - Dan In Real Life. LOVE it. It was a good day.

2008-03-30T09:13:00.000-07:00

"Spread your love everywhere you go."

- Mother Teresa

How did you spread your love today?

Spreadin' the love with my fam in WI today! That's my sister and my mom... LOVE them! :)

2008-03-29T06:07:00.000-07:00

"Right now is a good time."

- Tote Yamada

Right now is a good time, to start something new, to hug someone in need, to take time to relax. What will you do right now!

Right now, I get to spend some time with my sister and that means the world to me!

2008-03-28T19:22:00.000-07:00

“Creativity is a natural extension of our enthusiasm.”

-Earl Nightingale entrepreneur, motivational author

Show creativity in your space today

I've traveled to my Mom's in WI (from PA) today - so I won't be able to add photos until I get back home unless her computer can somehow read my camera card... Hopefully, I can work it out, but I will eventually post photos to go with the daily prompts! :)

2008-03-27T06:09:00.000-07:00

“A habit cannot be tossed out the window; it must be coaxed down the stairs a step at a time.”

- Mark Twain - humorist, lecturer, author

Lets look at our habits, the good and the bad!

One of my worst habits is leaving things go til the last minute and then rushing around like a nut. Case in point - the blurry photo, taken in a rush because I have to literally fly out of here! Later!

2008-03-26T07:05:00.000-07:00

“Any necessary work that pays an honest wage carries its own honor and dignity.”

- W. Kelly Griffith

What is your job, your day to day job, your working life?

My job(s): I am on the design team for ScrapInStyleTV; I am a homemaker (sharing a good portion of those responsibilities with dh who works in office 2-1/2 days a week and at home 3 mornings a week; I am responsible for all the household finances - record keeping, bill payment, etc.; I am the church treasurer and so do the same for the church on a weekly basis; I co-lead the worship with dh at our church and accompany on guitar each week plus I keep all the records of music and plan the song service weekly. I try to squeeze as much scrapbooking and social life into whatever time is left over each week. For the design team work, I get compensated. The rest is all for "free"! :)

2008-03-25T08:45:00.001-07:00

“Put your ear down close to your soul and listen hard.”

Anne Sexton - poet, writer

Take time out today to listen to your heart, listen to your family and loved ones

This is something I'm really trying to do better - listen to others as they are speaking instead of thinking about what I'm going to say as soon as they stop.

2008-03-24T23:06:00.000-07:00

12/52

(Credits: Template - 2/10/08 Ad Challenge by Kellie Mize (designerdigitals.com); Brushes - SS-swirls; Fonts - Arial Black (Title/subtitle); Century Gothic (quote))

2008-03-24T09:29:00.000-07:00

"Red and yellow and pink and green,
Purple and orange and blue,
I can sing a rainbow,
Sing a rainbow,
Sing a rainbow too!"

Artist Delta Goodrum

While I sure don't think Easter has anything at all to do with eggs and bunnys, we still had fun with some of the traditions that are associated with this day and I thought this photo, taken on Thursday, best summed up the rainbow theme of the week, since it was also Easter week. For me, the highlight of the week was definitely Sunday morning at church. The message was wonderful, the music was great and the church was full - of people and God's spirit in them and of the JOY of the resurrection! Now THAT's Easter!

2008-03-23T15:19:00.000-07:00

"Pink - its my new obsession
Pink its not even a question,
Pink, on the lips of your lover, cause
Pink is the love you discover"

Aerosmith

Not the best "tech" photo, but I love it anyway. After a long, full Easter day, little Eva (still in her pink jacket) fell asleep on her mom's shoulder and I was able to snap this photo. (Eva will evenutally be my son's adoptive daughter after he and Emily marry and so I will not only be gaining a daughter, but a granddaughter! If I could have chosen any child that I know to be my granddaughter, Eva would be the one. Oh, the JOY!) :)

2008-03-22T08:33:00.001-07:00

"Gold
Always believe in your soul
Youve got the power to know
You're indestructable
Always believe in, because you are Gold"

-Spandau Ballet

My beautiful wedding band...

2008-03-21T07:24:00.000-07:00

The Emerald City

(Located in the center of the Land of Oz, the Emerald City is the end of the famous yellow brick road, which starts in Munchkin Land.)

There's not too much green in PA right now, but I managed to find some!

2008-03-20T08:35:00.000-07:00

"She wore blue velvet
Bluer than velvet was the night
Softer than satin was the lightFrom the stars
She wore blue velvetBluer than velvet were her eyes
Warmer than May her tender sighs"

- Bernie Wayne/Lee Morris

We dyed Easter eggs today! Can you tell?

2008-03-19T09:36:00.000-07:00

"Ebony and ivory live together in perfect harmony
Side by side on my piano keyboard, oh lord, why dont we?
We all know that people are the same where ever we go
There is good and bad in evryone,
We learn to live, we learn to give
Each other what we need to survive together alive."

-Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder

2008-03-19T09:16:00.000-07:00

11/52

(Credits: PP's - Forgotten Sunset, Lori Barnhurst (Little Dreamer Designs); Text Circle - DigitalScrapbookTeacher.com; Ribbons - Peppermint Snowflake (pink scallop), Heidi Larson (Little Dreamer Designs), Strawberry Lemonade (red w/circles), Jessica Sprague; Stitched Ribbons (green, orange), Michelle Coleman (scrapartist.com); Frame - Been Framed, Kim Hill (CGEssentials.com); Brad and Tag - Winter White, Amanda Sok (scrapgirls.com); Corner tag - Rustic Autumn, Jan Hosford; Fonts - CK Journaling (journaling); Unicorn (title))

2008-03-18T08:36:00.000-07:00

"Look at the stars, Look how they shine for you, And everything you do, Yeah they were all yellow" -ColdPlay

I'm just going to do self-portraits this week that follow the color theme prompt. Fun! :)

2008-03-17T10:37:00.000-07:00

Just a little Irish goodness - in the form of a Bailey's Irish Cream Cheesecake - on St. Patty's Day! In my heart, I'm totoally Irish! ;)

2008-03-17T10:11:00.000-07:00

This one is for Sunday, March 16, 2008:

"I like what I see when I'm looking at me, when I'm walking pass the mirror"

-Mary J Blige

You are that person in the mirror, start loving that person!

Well, I'm loving her more and more all the time! ;)

2008-03-15T07:12:00.000-07:00

“Action springs not from thought, but from a readiness for responsibility.”

-Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945), pastor, theologian, German Resistance fighter in World War II

Responsibilitiy in all our lives is important. Our scrapbooking is a responsibility to preserve our memories for future generations. What responsibility in your life is most important?

I do not only our home banking and everything that entails, but I'm also the church treasurer and so I'm responsible for balancing that checkbook as well, paying all the bills on time and keeping meticulous records of everything. Those are big responsibilities that I take seriously.

But I think my biggest responsibility is to my children. I'm responsible to be there for them, even though they're grown-ups. I want to keep the lines of communication open and our door always open for them. I'm responsible to be truthful with them and an encouragement to them. I'm responsible to treat them with respect and try to offer advice only when asked (not so easy, that one!). And, most of all, I'm responsible to pray for them daily and love them with all I am. After all, God has entrusted them to my care. while they're here on earth. I consider that a huge responsibility...

2008-03-13T08:02:00.000-07:00

"Beauty, truth, friendship, love, creation---these are the great values of life. We can't prove them, or explain them, yet they are the most stable things in our lives."

-Jesse Herman Holmes

What are your great values in life?

I really value truth, honesty, kindness, integrity, generosity, mercy, genuine-ness, compassion for others. These are the things that I strive for myself, but these are also the things that melt my heart and/or generate great respect when I witness them in others.

2008-03-12T09:29:00.000-07:00

"Don't ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive."

-Howard Thurman

What makes you come alive? Is it your work, your family, your hobby or just being here?

Really, anything where my senses are engaged makes me feel alive. Good things like creating, great conversation, kindness, passion, compassion, great music, great beauty (whether in people, actions or creation, art, etc.) all do it for me. But "un-happy" things - like anger - can certainly make me feel alive, too! If someone is being cruel, abusive, ignorant or dishonest, it lights a fire under me.

I'll tell you what sucks the life out of me - negative people. People that aren't happy unless they're complaining about something or someone. People that don't "try", but stay stuck in their ruts (when they clearly need to get "un"stuck), making the same mistakes over and over. Arrogant people that are just full of themselves. Ugh. I tend to gravitate far, far away from that when I sense it. It just totally makes me feel down.

So, yeah, I prefer to do things and be with people that will stimulate, hopefully in a positive way, my senses. Because if I'm going to feel alive, I prefer to feel HAPPY and alive! :)

2008-03-11T20:46:00.000-07:00

“First thing every morning before you arise say out loud, 'I believe,' three times. ”

Norman Vincent Peale (1898-1993), author, preacher

I believe that I am loved by God. I believe there is Truth and Truth belongs to God, no matter who else decides to put their name on it. I believe my faith is all about having a relationship with God and not about following rules. I believe in forgiveness and grace and mercy and that part of God's plan for me on this earth is to not only receive those things from Him, but also to allow Him to use me to give those things to others that He brings into my life. I believe He has richly and abundantly blessed me. And I believe that I fail - on a daily basis - to truly understand the immensity of His love for me. I fail to trust Him 100% of the time. I fail to love others as He has loved me. I fail to forgive as I've been forgiven. I fail to live my life with gratitude and appreciation for all He has given me. And yet.... I believe that I am loved by God. I believe.

2008-03-11T15:40:00.000-07:00

10/52

(Click on layout to read journaling)

Credits: Template - KMize (designerdigitals.com) 1.13.08 Ad Challenge; pp - JSprague (Echoes of Asia); brad(s) Sweet Shoppe Designs (Carnival); brush - AnaRasha; symbol - PSE; Fonts - Walrod (title) and Century Gothic (journaling)

2008-03-10T11:47:00.000-07:00

"Balance"

Okay, so I slapped on a little color and photoshopped my sick self a little for my photo today. It's been a rough week!

Balance - it seems like I'm always trying to find balance - in my eating habits, my exercise habits, in housework vs. play time, in finances, especially. And really, balance isn't a stationery thing, is it? If you think about someone trying to balance on, say, a beam, it's rare that they're perfectly still but, rather, they are always shifting a little weight here or there to stay in balance. So I guess it's a good thing that balance is an ongoing goal; something, though never fully attained perhaps, but always something to be strived for.

for 3-9-08 - "Comfort"

Yep, that's been my state for most of this week. And on this day (Sunday), I never even got online at all (a sure sign of how sick I've been). Friday and Saturday were pretty much the same, but I managed to check my email on those days. No photos, though... I hate being sick!

So, what is comfort to me? When I'm sick, it's curling up on the couch with a hot drink to either read or tube out. And chicken noodle soup. I just want chicken noodle soup... :)

2008-03-06T12:54:00.000-08:00

"Soft"

My little Rocky. He's definitely one of the softest things in my world. Do you think he'd let me get a photo of me snuggling with him, though? Um... no. I said soft, not submissive. He is very sweet and sleeps glued to my side at night. Okay, okay. I know I'm just a heat machine to him, but I like to believe that he really does love me... ;)

2008-03-05T15:32:00.000-08:00

"Explore"

I love it when I have time to just surf the web and check out some great sites...

2008-03-05T14:53:00.000-08:00

9/52

(Credits: frame, cardboard border and alphabet, label and felt leaf - Kim Hill (cgessentials.com); ppand bird(s) - Patricia Christensen, (Weeds & Wildflowers); lg. bracket sticker - Kerry Lynn Yeary (Barnstorm) for ScrapInStyleTV.com; Fonts - "Joy" - 28 Days Later; journaling - CK Journaling)

2008-03-04T09:25:00.000-08:00

A new month, and a new week. This week I am going to post one word, just one single word, to inspire your photo and your journalling for each day.

"Shine"

Unlike yesterday, there is nothing shiny about today, unless you count the shiny, rain-drenched bench in the photo. It's just a dreary, yucky day.

But, positive person that I am, I believe there's a silver lining (i.e. "shiny") behind every cloud. And today's is that the temps are warm enough that it's rain and not snow AND the rain is continuing to melt the snow from our driveway. And it's already made a good dent in the snow on the deck. And, since it's now March, that's a good thing!

2008-03-03T14:23:00.000-08:00

"One day at a time, this is enough. Live in the present and make it so beautiful that it will be worth remembering" - Ida Scott Taylor

Record with a photo the memory of one thing that bought Joy to your day. Journal why this memory was so precious.

This TRULY gave me joy today! First of all - that thermometer actually got up to 50 degrees, today! VERY welcome after some pretty frigid temps around here lately!

Second, with energy from I don't know where, I finally tackled purging/cleaning my pantry and I can't tell you how GREAT it feels to have this accomplished. I know I'm a tad anal about these sorts of things, but having things organized, herbs alphabetized, ducks in a row, etc., just really releases a burden from my brain. I do see the beauty in it. It frees me up and it just plain makes me happy! And this is also something I've been wanting to do since the beginning of the year in my effort to healthy up my lifestyle. So now all the old, unhealthy or never-to-be-used stuff is GONE! Woohoo! Now - to see how long "we" can keep it this way! But for today - it's big time JOY! :)

2008-03-02T16:44:00.000-08:00

"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

Even though it's not Mother's Day here in the USA, as it is in the homeland of our prompt-giver, I don't mind posting a picture of my children (all "three" of them!). I'm sorry that my awesome daughter-in-law isn't in the photo (she's taking it). This was this past Christmas.

There is never a day that goes by where I don't either think about, pray for, talk to or look at photos of my children. I love them so much and I'm so proud of them. There's nothing that any of them - or anyone else - could ever do to change that, either. It's a fierce thing, this mother-love. It's intense. And it's a special kind of love that you can't possibly know for someone unless you ARE their mother. It's been one of the greatest joys of my life.

2008-03-01T20:06:00.000-08:00

"March is the month of expectation"

-Emily Dickinson

Lets start a new month full of good expectations, full of joy to continue with our 365 journey.

Here are some things I'm expecting to happen in March: an unofficial family announcement will be made official; I will begin my new role as a design team member for ScrapInStyleTV; all this snow will melt (hope!); there will be gatherings with friends; there will be a trip to Madison; my ankle will be healed enough to allow me to start walking (up my melted driveway!); some summer plans will be finalized. I'm expecting it will be a joy-filled month!

2008-02-29T09:21:00.000-08:00

"Yesterday is HISTORY ; Tomorrow is a MYSTERY; Today is a GIFT; That's why it's called the 'PRESENT' "

-Unknown

Today is a gift, an extra day to be loved, to give love, how did you spend your GIFT?

By writing a love letter to my Mom. I've been making little 6x6 double-sided pages for her each month that I send in the mail. I made her an album and, as she gets the new pages, she just adds them to the album. I put some kind of quote or words of encouragement on one side and then on the reverse side I sort of highlight my month so she can know what's going on in my life. All of this to just encourage her and brighten her day. And so, since February was the month of 'love" with V-day and all, part of my little page for February was to write her a love letter. I'm sure she'll love it, too...

2008-02-28T12:53:00.000-08:00

"I am beginning to learn that it is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all."

-Laura Ingalls Wilder

What simple thing in your life made your day just perfect?

How about opening a package from SIStv full of beautiful papers? That definitely made my day just perfect! Now - if only I could find the time today to go and use it!

2008-02-27T16:44:00.000-08:00

“Look at what you've got and make the best of it. It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.”

Proverb

I think it's the whole "see the cup as half full, rather than half empty" thing. And I am really all about that. I used to think it might be better to be a pessimist, because if you always expect the worst then you're not disappointed when that's exactly what you get. But have you been around a pessimist lately? Not a happy place to be. Negativity just sucks the life out of you and everyone around you.

So I choose to be an optimist, a positive thinker, a generally happy person. I just feels better. When you're looking for good - in your life, your circumstances, the people around you - you're generally going to find it.

2008-02-26T10:53:00.000-08:00

"Joy enters the room. It settles on the windowsill, waiting to see whether it will be welcome here."

-Kim Chernin

Have you ever heard the thought that the mood of the home is determined by the mood of the woman? You know - "if momma ain't happy, ain't NObody happy!" I hate that, but dang if I don't find that it's so often true! Why is that? Maybe it's because we women are such emotional, even spiritual beings that the vibes we send out are not only felt by those around us, but possibly even adopted by those around us. Now, I have to say, that ever since I've been married, I've lived in a house full of boys, er, men. No... Boys! ;) Males do tend to go with flow... I've seen it time and again. (I have no idea how this works in a house full of women!) :) So, I feel the onus is on ME to be in a good mood. Unfair! Who's gonna make ME feel better when I'm NOT in a good mood? Let's say it all together - NObody! :)

So, Joy, please don't sit there waiting on the windowsill waiting to see. Come IN. Fill me up. Fill up my home! And come every day!

2008-02-25T22:39:00.000-08:00

8/52

(Credits: PP's, labels and buttons, "Git R Done" by Audrey Neal for SIStv; Scallop mask by Jen Caputo (scrapbookgraphics.com); Fonts: Century Gothic (journaling); CK Curly (title and quote)

2008-02-25T09:55:00.000-08:00

"Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is youer than you"

Dr Seuss

Ha! LOVE that quote! Love the uniqueness of each one of us that it addresses. Gotta give God the credit (and praise) for that. Wouldn't it be a boring, boring existence if we were all the same?

And the depth of who we are goes so far beyond what we see on the surface. I hope to concentrate more on that depth in others than on the surface beauty that the media so wants to sell us on.

And, yes! I want to embrace the ME that I am. Why do I/we get so caught up in trying so hard to be like someone else? I know oftentimes it's because we just really appreciate or enjoy who they are. But then we cross the line from appreciation to comparing ourselves to them and, inevitably begin feeling somehow bad about ourselves... I want to STOP that and just enjoy their uniqueness - and MINE!

2008-02-24T14:03:00.000-08:00

"Adopt the peace of nature" ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

I could have gone out and tried to take a photo on this gorgeous, clear and sunny (and cold!) day but we had company and I have an ankle injury, so going out and tromping in the snow wasn't an option... But honestly, what could be more peaceful than my little kittie all curled up and snoozing on the couch - if it wasn't for my interruption, of course. He's may not be profound, but he's peaceful - and natural! :)

2008-02-23T18:02:00.000-08:00

"For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.”

- Audrey Hepburn

That's a new quote to me - and I love it. This is what it means to be beautiful on the inside. And I think when you have this inner beauty, you truly do appear beautiful to others...

2008-02-22T09:14:00.000-08:00

"Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful"
-William Morris

I couldn't agree with this more! In fact, I was just having a conversation about this with my sil the other day. Many years ago, I read Simplify Your Life by Elaine St. James and, while I wouldn't take to heart EVERY suggestion in it, overall, I found the principles and suggestions to be SO, well, life changing. Yeah. I'll go that far. And one of the things she proposed was to get rid of every little knick-knack and thing in your house that you don't really LOVE. I mean, why put your energy into dusting, moving around, re-arranging, etc. something you don't really love? And then, after you do this, you are surrounded by things that really lift you, bring beauty into your life and/or mean the most to you. Isn't that great? You have to ask yourself with each thing sitting around your house (other than utilitarian things - and even those can often be found in a more beautiful form...), "do I really love this? What does it mean to me? Why am I holding on to it?" And if it doesn't float your boat for some kind of major reason - then TOSS it! It's freeing! (And greatly reduces clutter, as well!)

2008-02-21T20:01:00.000-08:00

7/52

This is my layout for Valentine's Day - except I switched out the photo for one I like better. :)

(Credits: PP - Pieces of My Heart by Gina Marie Huff (Weeds & Wildflowers); frame - Jessica Sprague; stitches - Kerry Lynn Yeary (Honeychurch) for SIStv; font - CK Easy Goin')

2008-02-21T12:57:00.000-08:00

"Fashions fade, style is eternal"
-Yves Saint Laurent

What is your style?

My style? I'd have to say shabby chic - heavy on the shabby and light on the chic. Not that I don't like to get glammed up now and then, I do. I love a great haircut and I love putting on makeup. But most of time, I'm just wearing my comfy clothes around the house. Sad, but true... If it's loose and comfy, I'm all over it. Well, actually, it's all over me. When I do get "dressed up" I very rarely even wear skirts any more. I'm all about stretch jeans and comfy shoes. Yeah, okay. Sign me up for "What Not to Wear!"

2008-02-20T12:50:00.000-08:00

"Be the change that you want to see in the world" -Mohandas Ghandi

When I read that inspiring quote, it makes me think of these verses in the Bible, which I've quoted from "The Message" translation:

If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love. Love never gives up. Love cares more for others than for self. Love doesn't want what it doesn't have. Love doesn't strut, Doesn't have a swelled head, Doesn't force itself on others, Isn't always "me first," Doesn't fly off the handle, Doesn't keep score of the sins of others, Doesn't revel when others grovel, Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth, Puts up with anything, Trusts God always, Always looks for the best, Never looks back, But keeps going to the end. Love never dies. -1Co 13:3-8

I love "The Message" translation. It take ancient and sometimes difficult words to understand, and brings them right to our time.

I think one of the biggest and best changes we could see in our world which is so full of war, hate crimes, senseless killings, and abuses of all kinds, is to LOVE more. Really love. I mean, look again at those verses. How many of us (myself included!) really love that way? And sure, it's easy to try to love that way those who already love you or who appear to be "love-able". But I think the lesson is that everyone needs love and needs to be loved. That's where the rubber meets the road, doesn't it? Taking the time to look that annoying person in the eye and really love them by giving them our full attention instead of the brush-off or our judgment. Or by seeing a need and doing what we can to meet it rather than walking away. We can love by forgiving that person that has hurt us so much. Or by being kind when we haven't had kindness given to us. It's not about what people deserve. It's about what we are willing to freely give - no strings attached. These are the things that can slowly change at least the world around us - by first changing US. Because we can't just go through the motions - or else it's empty, useless. We must extend love from a heart of love. I believe that can only happen by receiving the amazing love of God ourselves first and then channeling that love to others. Kind of like the always-repeated demo on the airplane; you must put the mask on yourself before you try to help anyone else.

So, I am challenged by this quote to BE the love to others in this world that is so in need of love. And even if it only touches my small little realm of life, that's good. Love has a ripple effect...

2008-02-19T07:30:00.000-08:00

“For happiness is anyone and anything at all that's loved by you.”
-Charlie Brown; Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz

Well, there's happiness staring you in the face because that's my oldest son, who turns 30 today (and his beloved "Taco") and I sure do love him! It was right at this time (10:40 a.m.-ish) 30 years ago that his dad and I were holding our brand new little baby and we were just overwhelmed by our love for him. And in 30 years, though there have been a few phases that we weren't diggin' so much, that overwhelming love for him has never waned, and has only grown.... Happy birthday, Matthew! I love you SO much! :)

2008-02-18T09:58:00.000-08:00

"The Sound of Music"

We all listen to music everyday. Whether it be on the radio, IPod, CD Player, the TV or sounds of birds singing, children laughing. Find the music in your day.

Nothing really moves me like music. Whether it be lyrics or melody, music can stir emotions in me more than anything else. And I love that Anna mentions bird songs in her prompt, because I definitely consider nature sounds a music - God's pure music. One of my favorite things to do when the weather permits is to sit on the front porch in the morning and have my quiet time there, reading, praying, listening to the birdsongs or the soft rustling of the leaves, or the chimes as they are gently moved by the breeze.

But there's more. Besides the fact that I have an extensive selection of CD's to choose from whenever the mood strikes, music is very much a regular part of my life. My husband and I lead the music/worship at our church. My part involves not only the leading the singing but also providing the musical accompaniment which is solely, at this point, the guitar. I started out just filling in because our pianist moved away and that was, well, so many years ago, I've lost count. We are also part of our Praise Team, so it's my "business" to be majorly involved in the process of finding, learning and teaching new songs to both the team and our congregation. And, honestly. It's not that I'm so gifted or anything. In a larger church, in a bigger city, I would never have this ministry. But God put us where we are - in a rural community and at a little church in the boonies - and I am incredibly blessed that He has allowed me to be used this way. I do love the sound of music....

2008-02-17T16:40:00.000-08:00

"Edward Scissor Hands"

I am guessing we all have scissors in our hands at one point in the day, whether you are a crafter, a seamstress, a hairdresser! Edward was an artist, so are you.

Oh, I love this movie! And, sure, I'm a crafter, a coupon-cutter-outer, an article clipper and a corner-snipper (as in being able to see which page in my checkbook register I'm on). So I guess I have scissors hands, too. Oh. And Johnny Depp can also come and trim my hedges any time. I'm just sayin'... ;)

2008-02-16T19:42:00.000-08:00

"Chocolate"

Think of chocolate, baking, love. Which one will inspire you today?

Well, I hate to say it, but it's the chocolate that inspires me today!

So I said to my dh when I saw today's prompt, "please stop by the store on your way home and buy something chocolate and pretty",

to which he promptly responded, "huh?".

"Some chocolate. And pretty. I need to take a photo of something chocolate and I want it to look delicious."

"You mean candy?"

*sigh*

The funny thing is that, since the new year (and aforementioned goals that I'm sticking to pretty well), I've tried to keep sweets and, in particular, chocolate OUT of the house. I even told dh NOT to get me any chocolates for V-day this year. (Aren't I doing well?) So what should appear on our doorstep on V-day but a "mystery" package containing - you guessed it - a gorgeous red box of chocolates. *again with the sigh* I looked and looked and couldn't find who it was from because dh swore it wasn't from him. Here's the reason I can't have this stuff in the house. It just calls my name and so, after eating enough to make my tummy sick (in all fairness, my tummy hasn't been used to eating lots of chocolate lately), dh finally found the paper that said who it was from. My mother. This is the first time in my 55 year history of knowing her that she sent me chocolates. *SIGH* The remainder of the box was relegated to my husband's secret stash.

So the prompt today made me laugh. Because I was freshly OUT of chocolate to photograph and, hence, the confusing phone call to my dh. So yes, there's chocolate back in the house. But our son will be here tomorrow to help eat it. In the meantime, I've cut into it, arranged it, photographed it, licked the icing off my fingers and yes, even have had a piece of that cake (which, by the way, only has chocolate icing.) Yeah, chocolate inspires me - to do very weird things. Now, if only I could get Johnny Depp to bring me some... ;)

2008-02-15T20:24:00.000-08:00

"Its a Wonderful Life"

My all time favourite film. So much to take from this film, need i say more.

So dh and I went out for our Valentine's Day dinner and took a little drive first and I knew we'd be passing this bridge, which really reminds me of the bridge that George jumped off of to "save" Clarence. I so love this movie, too and there are so many wonderful things in it. But most of all, I love the overall message which is that you just never know how many different lives your own life is touching and that we need to keep that in mind especially when we're feeling insignificant in this world. Love that.

2008-02-14T09:05:00.000-08:00

6/52

I deviated from the layout prompt given this week as I wasn't inspired by my photo or my journaling for the day prompted (my own fault). So I went back through my photos and decided to scrap this one. For credits, link to my posting on SIStv here.

2008-02-14T08:25:00.000-08:00

"Love Story"

Hey its Valentines Day! Journal about your love story , past , present, future!

(Just got a little creative with Photoshop this a.m. and combined a photo of a card that was waiting for me by the coffee machine when I came down this morning (after dh left for work), some chocolates and a directory photo we just took for church.)

The continuum of love - past, present, future: flirty, lusty, giddy, silly, all-consuming, serious, unified, committed, passionate, testing boundaries, supportive, reproductive, teammates, best friends, roommates, companionable, buddies, lovers, grounded, partners, soul-mates, the other half, inseperable.

We've been together for almost 33 years. The stages of the relationship change over the years. The passion waxes and wanes. What was all feel-good and fun in the beginning changes, matures if you will, into something that maybe isn't always as emotionally charged, but has become a part of your very being, who you are. You have this history together that truly bonds you. Only time can build that. So many couples today don't bother to work it out and so never get to that place where your history will hold you together. Too bad. Because that's what love really is made of. Happy Valentine's day, honey! :)

2008-02-13T20:25:00.000-08:00

"Hairspray"

What else am I going to take a photo of when this movie is my inspiration? I suppose I could have taken one of me dancing in a big production number, but rehearsals for that were yesterday so I missed my photo op! :)

Loved the movie. Use the product. That's it for today! :)

2008-02-12T07:51:00.000-08:00

Lets try something different this week. I am going to give you a movie title and see how you are inspired by the film.

"Breakfast at Tiffany's"

Inspiration could come from the beautiful Miss Audrey Hepburn; her fashion, poise and elegance. Try looking at the title; breakfast. Maybe the famous scenes of Audrey window shopping at Tiffanys will inspire your photograph today.

Oh, yeah, baby. Just call me Audrey! So here I am sitting at home alone, with the day before me and lots to do and, instead I'm sitting here putting on makeup and costumes and cheesecaking for the camera! Ahhhh, such is the life of a supah-stah! Smooches! ;)

2008-02-11T21:10:00.000-08:00

( For Monday, February 11)

"Live a balanced life. Learn some and think some, and draw and paint and sing and dance and play and work every day some." ~Robert Fulghum

I'm working on a "special" project right now. Happily, that project also involved gettin' scrappy with it and that always presents lots of time for thinking... By the description above, my life is pretty darn balanced because I do all those things on a very regular basis. Some more than others, sure, but I'm just sayin'.

I really enjoy learning AND thinking. Sometimes, though, I think that I think too much. Am I the only one with, like, a gazillion thoughts running around in my head at any given time? It makes it hard to fall asleep sometimes. And I can always tell when it's time to get up in the morning...it's when my mind kicks in and I start thinking about what I'm going to do that day. There no hope for falling back to sleep after that. I try not to have that happen at 4 a.m.

Next month, I'll be taking another digi scrapping course from Jessica Sprague (http://www.jessicasprague.com/). Her classes are SO great. This will be the 3rd-level digi class. And, as a worship leader, I will be learning some new songs this week, something that I do on a regular basis. AND, I'm still trying to figure out my camera. I'm getting some good photos, but I don't know why. And I need to know why. So, yeah, I'm still challenging the old brain to work.

I do sing on a very regular basis. And if you lump the drawing and painting and dancing and playing all together, then, yes, I touch base with my ability to create/express on a regular basis.

And I've got plenty of "work" to do to keep me busy in all the in-between times. More than I actually get to, but that's another story. I do enough.

So, yeah, I'm feeling pretty balanced here. And that's a good feeling!

2008-02-09T10:10:00.000-08:00

"We really need only five things on this earth. Some food, some sun, some work, some fun and someone" ~Beatrice Nolan

Try and photograph all five things today

Yeah, that's a pretty good list! As for photographing all five today. I had to put together the song service for church tomorrow (work), needed a snack (food) so grabbed those things and my camera and snapped this of me in front of the window so you can see that there isn't any sun (it's snowing). I'm home alone right now, so I'm the someone and I can't blog any more because I gotta run to go do some fun stuff - movie, dinner and book signing! Later!

2008-02-08T20:14:00.000-08:00

"Never frown, because you never know when someone is falling in love with your smile". ~Carol O'Leary

Ha! Well, I highly doubt that anyone is falling in love with my smile, but I DO need to be careful about frowning. Because that old mouth there wants to point downward all on it's own when I'm NOT smiling and it makes me look sad or mad. So this is actually something I do try to be aware of. Besides, smiles are contagious! :)