LIFE AS I KNOW IT (and more than you wanted to know).....

Recipe Cards....shhh!

2009-09-29T08:00:00.000-04:00

I'm participating in a secret sister recipe swap over on SCS. Each month we send our sister 4 recipes and include some goodies as well. I'm working on finishing the October recipes which is also when we reveal our identity! I've received some great recipes from my secret sister and have had a blast in this swap. Here are the September recipes I sent out:

Best Wishes

2009-09-28T08:00:00.001-04:00

Here's a card I made for a wedding a few weeks ago. I just love the current SU In-Colors, they cordinate with so many different colors. I can't wait to play more with them!

B is for Birthday

2009-09-27T14:41:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone~ Here's a picture of a card my daughter made for one of her friends. We both love this stamp set and use it often for birthday cards. I did the cutting but my daughter did all of the stamping and assembly. She loves being crafty like her mom!

2009-09-10T08:15:00.001-04:00

Darn Blogger! Once again, I can't rotate this picture...bummmer. Anyway, this is another 4x6 recipe card I made (x27) for a swap on SCS. Hope you like it!

Bridal Shower Favors

2009-09-08T08:15:00.000-04:00

Here are favor bags I made with my cricut, I love how they turned out. All supplies from PTI.

Recipe Swap

2009-09-06T13:55:00.007-04:00

Here's 27 recipe cards I made for a swap I'm participating in over at SCS! Blogger is not cooperating with me, I can't rotate this picture, sorry everyone :)

White & Red for no reason!

2009-07-24T08:00:00.001-04:00

Ok, I made this card just to practice the technique or style called the "Criss Cross Card". I found the tutorial on SCS and really wanted to try it. Let me tell you, it was super easy thanks to some great instructions. I will definitely be making this style again!

Hope you like it, please leave me a comment and tell me what you think!

Color Throwdown Challenge

2009-07-23T15:27:00.007-04:00

HELLO!! Here is a card I did for the Color Throwdown Challenge. You can find the details here:

Color Throwdown Challenge #52

First, let me tell you how excited I was to find the "decorative accents" I used in the challenge. I found them in the clearance section at Michaels. A 5oz. bag was on sale for $1.60. There's a ton of these little gems in the bag but now I'm wishing I picked up another! I'll have to check when I go back to see if they are still there. {Really, do I *need* another bag?!} Anyway, I've seen them used on cards and believe most people call them dew drops and I was just hoping I'd come across them sometime.

So without anymore chatter, here's my card!

Please leave me a comment, I'd love to hear what you think of it!

Supplies:
Stamps- Very Thankful (SU)

Cardstock- Cottage Wall DSP, Certainly Celery, Chocolate Chip
Ribbon- Old SU ribbon
Ink- Certainly Celery Marker
Other- dew drops, Label One Nestibilities, Cuttlebug, Scallop Punch

Easy Peasy....

2009-07-17T08:00:00.000-04:00

Lemon Squeezy {sorry, I couldn't resist!}. Here's a little something I made quick, as usual for a friend who started a new job today. I love the Tart & Tangy stamp set from Stampin Up and was super excited when I saw these lemon candies at TJ Maxx. You just never know what you're going to find in there!

I hope you like it, my friend sure did! I left it as a surprise for her when she got home from work today.

Bridal Shower Invitations

2009-07-15T08:00:00.000-04:00

Here is a picture of the bridal invitations I made for a shower my mom is having in August. She wanted simple and since I had to make 25, that was okay with me!!

Berry Sweet Birthday Card

2009-07-11T08:00:00.000-04:00

This card is for my cousin who is turning 2 this month. It's hard to see in the picture but there is red glitter on the stamped berry and gloss on the stem.

French Inspiration

2009-07-10T08:00:00.001-04:00

Here's a card I made for my parents to thank them for my birthday gifts from a couple of weeks ago. My mom had recently returned from a trip to France and brought me back the bag, a necklace & bracelet for me (my dad slipped some cash in the card!!). I love the colors and decided to use them in my card.

Jewelry Color Inspiration Challenge #44

2009-07-09T16:41:00.004-04:00

Here's my card I made for the Jewelry Color Inspiration #44 on stampinwithstacey's blog. I really love this challenge. This is only my 2nd challege but I'm getting the hang of it! These colors were somewhat hard for me but I did get to use one of my favorite stamp sets to color.

I hope you like it!!

Happy July 4th!!

2009-07-04T08:00:00.002-04:00

Here's a little something I made for my grandmother. We are going to see my grandparents this weekend at their lake house. I've missed one 4th of July in my 37 years of going to the lake because my parents sent me to a summer camp when I was a kid!!! I wasn't happy about it either!

Back to the box....I used Lauren Meader's PTI template, PTI's Let Freedom Ring stamp set & PTI's clear card stock and SU paper & ink. The ribbon is by Offray. Inside a placed 12 Lindt white chocolate's which is my grams favorite. I guarantee you she will cry when she sees it!

I hope you all are able to celebrate America's birthday in a fun way!

RED WHITE & BLUE thank you!

2009-07-03T08:00:00.000-04:00

I made this card, inspired by Nicole Heady's card on her blog using the Let Freedom Ring stamp set. I truely love Nicole's style!

Last week was my birthday and my Aunt gave me this pail from Pier 1. It has decorative sand and citronella candles as well. As soon as I opened the gift bag, my mind instantly went to this stamp set!!! Isn't it funny how we think of color combo's and card or page layouts at a time like this?!

Hope you like it....

Sending Condolences

2009-07-02T16:12:00.003-04:00

Today's card is for a stamping friend who lost her mother to cancer. This girl is one of a kind and I wanted to send her something special and let her know we are thinking of her.

Once again, the design is not my own (surprise!!) but is inspired by a sympathy card on the Midnight Scramper's website.....she's so talented. Her blog address is in my sidebar, check it out!

Blog Candy Alert....

2009-06-28T19:18:00.002-04:00

Check out this blog for some great SU blog candy:
http://thescrapmaster.blogspot.com/
Hurry, ends in June!

Raspberry Suite Color Challenge #10

2009-06-24T19:59:00.008-04:00

TWO POSTS IN ONE DAY....WOW!!!

ETA: I just tried taking another picture in daylight and it still looks pink! Oh well, I matched the colors best I could.

Dawn McVey's color challenge found here: http://dawnmcvey.typepad.com/these_are_a_few_of_my_fav/2009/06/raspberry-suite-color-challenge-10.html

And here's my card:

It looks pink in the picture (darn) but the colors I used were SU's close to cocoa, very vanilla, regal rose and cameo coral.

(picture taken early evening) (picture taken during daylight)

Supplies used:
CS & Markers- SU

Ribbon- Offray

Stamps- SU's Darling Dots & PTI's Let Freedom Ring

Jewelry Color Inspiration Challenge #42

2009-06-24T16:05:00.004-04:00

Here's my very first color challenge I've ever participated in! It was fun and I got to use one of my favorite stamp sets! Do you want to join in the fun? Check out this blog for the challenge:

http://stampinwithstacey.blogspot.com/2009/06/jewelry-color-inspiration-42-givaway.html
And here's my card:

Layout based on SCS #155.

All supplies SU except for the sentiment which source is unknown (sorry).

Thanks for looking!!

Feel Better...sniff, sniff!

2009-06-24T13:50:00.001-04:00

For your viewing enjoyment today I thought I'd post this cute little kleenex holder I made with my Cricut. Quick & Easy!!

Father's Day Cards

2009-06-23T13:52:00.007-04:00

Hello All~

Just thought I'd show a quick photo of the cards I made for my dad & FIL. Love, love, love one of them and not so crazy about the other but that's just how it goes!! Thanks for looking!

Another Teacher Gift

2009-06-18T11:00:00.000-04:00

Hello again! Today I'm sharing the gift card holder we made for my daughter's 4th grade teacher. This one is a little different in terms of the gift because as the homeroom mother, I collected donations to be able to purchase 2 gift certificates for the teacher.

Also, please note that I am totally copying or inspired by the talented ladies blogs you'll see on my side bar. I only wish I could come up with these ideas on my own!!

I used a combination of Papertrey Ink & Stampin' Up products and am fairly happy with the end result. I say fairly because at the last minute I added the small gift card holder to the front and I'm just not sure if I should have done that or left it as a separate gift! Oh well, either way I know she'll love it!

And finally, here's some pictures!!

Teacher Gift

2009-06-17T10:57:00.007-04:00

I wanted to share this card and gift we made for my daughter's 1st grade teacher. I wish I was talented enough to come up with these ideas on my own but I'm just not!!! If you look at my side bar you'll see I have quite a list of blogs I like to watch and I definitely got the ideas from these talented ladies. I truly appreciate all the time that goes into blogs posts and the projects that go along with them.

The gift itself may not seem like "much" but this teacher is super crafty and will really appreciate the time and creativeness that went into it all. We did contribute to a class gift as well.

So here you have it....enjoy and be sure to check back tomorrow to see what my daughter's 4th grade teacher is getting:

BTW, I do have one other gift I made but didn't take a picture of it...darn :) I am LOVING my Cricut lately and it's been getting a lot of use!! Anyway, I made a gift bag for the school principal. She's retiring this year so I wanted to give a small token of appreciation in addition to the group/school gift we went in on.

FLIP FLOP biRthDaY!

2009-06-07T13:52:00.004-04:00

While blog hopping this morning, I found just the card I needed to make TODAY!! It was super easy to make, you can find the template on Michaels website. My daughter did the tracing and cutting and decided not to embellish the card as much as the example due to time.

Here are the gifts with the card in the middle:

And here's a close up of the card itself. The patterned paper is adhered at the top and my daughter signed on the solid color.

I hope you like it!!

Guess What I Saw?!?!?

2009-06-03T08:27:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, I was able to view the new Stampin' Up! In Colors for release on July 1, 2009! I didn't see them in person but on paper and BOY OH BOY do I like them!! I can't wait to get my hands on them!

Happy 11 Years

2009-05-15T19:31:00.005-04:00

Today marks my 11th wedding anniversary. It's hard to believe that 11 years has gone by and that we have 2 beautiful little girls who I guess aren't so little anymore! Anyway, my husband & I have been together for a total of 14 years and even dated some in high school prior to that. So I wanted to make a card to honor the event and realized I don't ever make masculine cards. Even so, I managed to make this work. At least I think so! I hope you like it as well. I know it will put a smile on my hubby's face!All supplies Stampin Up. Sentiment done on computer, Papyrus font.

Happy 10th Birthday!!

2009-05-11T13:27:00.006-04:00

ETA: Pictures

My daughter turned 10 years old today! So hard to believe....just where has the time gone?! And everyone is telling me the preteen/teen years go by even faster...ughhh!

I made a super quick birthday card last night for her. I'll post pictures later if I can fit it in between soccer practice, dinner and girl scouts. Good thing there's no homework this week at school due to academic testing, we don't have time for it!
Happy Birthday BRYN!!!

All supplies SU, except brads are MK. Just B stamp set, by Stampin Up.

Progress has been made!

2009-05-09T15:49:00.004-04:00

Well, I'm still here! Been very busy lately so not much time to post but here's a quick update. I went to 3 spin classes last week and tried to be more conscience about what I ate. And I do believe it paid off because the scale rewarded me with a 2 pound weight loss from last week. YEA!!

I think I might do my weekly weigh ins online again and post my exercise progress. Keep me accountable, if that's possible!! I'm aiming for another 2 pounds next week as well. I just have to remember that all good things take time and to be patient.

Happy Mother's Day to all the mom's out there! I think my girls have a couple of special things planned for me tomorrow..I can't wait!!

OH.NO.I.DIDN'T

2009-04-06T19:58:00.001-04:00

I can't believe what I just did....HELP!!! I just deleted the blogs I follow list off my site. For some reason I had to make a 2nd list and I just accidently deleted the first one that had the majority of the sites I like to stalk, I mean visit.

I'm still here!

2009-04-06T19:38:00.003-04:00

It's been 2 months since my last post...wow how time flies by and how little changes! I've been super busy. In March, I surprised my hubby with a trip to Vegas with 3 other couples. The guys are all celebrating their 40th birthdays this year and didn't know we planned this vacation. It was a huge hit with them, they had no idea it was happening. I can't believe we pulled it off and it really was one of the best vacations I've ever been on. I've never been to Vegas before and thought I'd never need to go again but now I can't wait to go back! I think because all 8 of us were together made it all the better!

We're also going on a family vacation to Disney this week with our 2 girls and my mom. We are all so excited to go! It's been cold and rainy here...just plain dreary, so I'm ready for some fun in the sun.

I had my friends wedding to attend in the middle of March. It was a great wedding but just another one of my goal dates for losing weight that I didn't accomplish. So I had the wedding, Vegas and Florida that I wanted to lose 30 pounds in 3-4 months time and I ended up losing NOTHING. Let me tell you, I feel like a complete failure again! I've had so many opportunities to lose this excess weight and I just blow it. I don't know what it's going to take but something's got to give.

Alright, I feel better getting that out there. I'm not really letting it get to me since Disney is in a few days. I just have to concentrate on a healthier lifestyle now because tomorrow isn't always given to you.

Does anyone have any good ways to strengthen willpower?!

PTI Sketch Challenge

2009-02-07T09:14:00.014-05:00

Wow there have been some exciting announcements at Papertrey Ink this week! I do not own any PTI product yet but really wanted to participate in the sketch challenge today. Here's my creation:

All supplies SU unless otherwise noted:

Love You Much Stamp Set

Ink: very vanilla craft, close to cocoa

Paper: very vanilla, pink piroquette, close to cocoa

ticket corner punch, heart to heart punch

Ribbon from unknown source

Heart Block embossing folder

You can find the PTI Challenge HERE.

I'd love to hear what you think and also see your card if you made one...please let me know!

Card for a Cousin!

2009-02-01T10:17:00.004-05:00

My daughter made this card for her cousin's birthday next week. She loves the color orange so that was her color scheme.

SU Birthday Cards

2009-01-21T11:15:00.019-05:00

Here are some of the cards I made using Aly's kit of the month. This kit is from December and you can find it on her site here. The only change I made was to use the Cuttlebug folders on some of the background papers. I really like how these turned out and hope you do also, not to mention I have 12 birthday cards ready to send when I'm short on time. Thanks Aly!!

Stampin Up Spring Catalog

2009-01-14T08:30:00.000-05:00

Who has the new SU Spring Catalog? I do!! Yea for me : )

99 Things I've done...or haven't!!!!!

2009-01-13T08:47:00.004-05:00

I found this on a fellow bloggers site and thought it'd be fun to do for myself as well! If it's in BOLD, I've done it! Let me know if you decide to post your own as well.....

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland/world
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted (when I was 5!)
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Gotten flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee

Funny thing about my scale...

2009-01-10T14:25:00.003-05:00

A couple of days after my last post, I stepped on my scale only to find it wasn't working (it's digital) so I changed the battery and tried again. No luck....I called the manufacturer and they wouldn't help either. It was within the warranty but because I didn't have the receipt they wouldn't let me send it in. So....I've been unable to weigh myself. Despite the fact I know it's not all about the numbers ....I just want to know!!!!

I've been eating way better than I did 2 weeks ago and feel better too. I NEED the number!!! Who knows, I might crack and buy a new scale but I have a doctor appointment this week and have to get on the Doctor's scale anyway...yuck!

The other thing I was on a quest for was a new video DVD. I didn't end up buying either I mentioned in a previous entry but instead purchased Bob Greene's Boot Camp DVD. It's a pretty good workout. I haven't ventured past Phase 1 yet, that will probably be next week. I don't know why I wanted a DVD to begin with. I have trouble following along and I usually end up knowing the moves anyway and could've saved myself the $10 bucks but oh-well...I'll keep at it!

Focusing on Health...

2009-01-02T10:34:00.003-05:00

So looking back I see that well over 10 weeks ago I started my weekly weigh-ins. What do I have to show for it??? NADA. I have realized that my focus needs to be on a healthier lifestyle and not what the scale says. Don't get me wrong, I've been weighing myself almost daily and will continue to do so. I believe the results will speak for themselves when I focus on eating healthy foods, drinking lots more water and exercising daily and not the numbers that stick their tongue out at me on the scale.

Stay tuned...I have big goals for the month of January.

ChChChChanges...

2009-01-01T06:00:00.003-05:00

Yes, some changes are to be made in my life. Starting today, now....
I've been thinking of what resolutions and goals I want to make in the new year.
Of course, I could come up with a list a mile long but I decided not to do that again.
Instead, I can summarize what I want do in one word....

SIMPLIFY

Yes, I want to simplify every corner of my life....from the foods I eat to the clutter in my office to the time I go to bed at night. It's all got to change....I see healthier days ahead in 2009 and I hope you do also!
Happy 2009 to you & yours!!

Fitness DVD's....please HeLp!!!

2008-12-30T21:01:00.003-05:00

I would like to purchase a fitness DVD...either Turbo Jam or Jillian Michaels video. Does anyone have an opinion on either? I want to get my butt kicked in the video....hmmm, maybe I should splurge and get both.

I'd love to hear what your favorite fitness videos are!!

Merry Christmas

2008-12-26T09:54:00.004-05:00

I hope everyone had a ver Merry yesterday! We sure did at our house. We had an even better present that we never even dreamed of getting though! My SIL and her family surprised us all and flew in from Tennessee for Christmas. There are 7 grandchildren on my husbands side and they are all girls around the same age. It's a close family so my girls were shocked to see their cousins walk through the door Christmas Eve.

I will never forget the looks on everyone's faces, especially my other SIL who is super tight with her sister!

And on another note, I have been very good on not overdoing the sweets & treats that seem to be everywhere we go! I haven't been so good about excersizing but have managed to accumulate a total of 33 points for the HBBC. I hope to get some more points this weekend!

Well, that's all for now. Again, I hope you all had a wonderful holiday and are enjoying this wonderful time of year!

Contemplation

2008-12-22T10:03:00.003-05:00

Ok, so I'm considering joining Weight Watcher's again. This would be my 3rd time joining and I've never stuck with it but of course feel this will be the time!! Since I don't want to "waste" the money again, I've decided to keep a food journal for the next 3 days and log everything I eat. If I can stick to the journaling and step up my exercise routine, maybe I won't have to spend the money on WW again!! I already log exercise which I have no problem doing. For some reason I've always had a mental block on writing down the food consumption. Probably because I wouldn't like what I saw!!

I hear there's a new WW program? Anyone tried it?

My quest to lose 35 lbs has been lame to say the least. I'm ready to rev it back up because March is really not that far away and that is my friends wedding I was trying to reach my goal for.

Did I ever mention this before??

2008-12-18T08:16:00.001-05:00

Have I ever mentioned that I am not a runner? I aspire to be but honestly, I can't even run more than 1 mile at a time and even that is pushing it. That said, I still have managed to get some could cardio in and have 12 points so far this week. I'm quite aware my points don't add up to others and that I was out of my mind joining a challenge full of runners; but that's okay I'm happy with myself for sticking with it.

Gift Card Holder

2008-12-17T22:44:00.003-05:00

I just made this gift card holder for my daughters teacher. The class chipped in for a gift card and being the home room mother, I decided to dress it up some. Thankfully, I had been following some blogs where the design team for Papertrey Ink designed various gift card holders. This one was "cased" by: http://www.pinefeather.typepad.com/. She is so talented!!

The supplies I used are SU except for the ribbon & brads which are from an unknown source.

Christmas Gifts from the Heart!

2008-12-17T10:41:00.013-05:00

I've been making cards for family members over the last couple of weeks and was conflicted on how I would package them. I luckily stumbled across a tutorial on the SCS site on how to make a box to fit A2 sizes. I made the first one so easily and just fell in love with them!!

I've finished 3 boxes, with the cards enclosed and have 3 more to finish by Saturday!! The race is on........ The good news is that I have the shopping finished for our girls and it's wrapped, yippeee! I have the gifts hiding in my closet at work so there's nothing to find if anyone decides to snoop. I don't think they do or at least I haven't caught them looking. They aren't the best at being quiet so I think I would find out!!

All paper & material are from K & Co. or SU.

Just 10 minutes....

2008-12-12T12:21:00.002-05:00

That was the advice I was given by a wise soul the other day. Just start out by doing 10 minutes of your workout and it might turn into more. Well, I knew I wanted to do the treadmill but I don't think I've ever spent just 10 minutes on it so I was shooting for 20 min. That turned into 30 minutes plus 15 min of strength training. So THANKS for the motivation, I appreciate it!

I'll post my points to date later as I might be going to spin class tonight.

Our Elf Dance

2008-12-11T16:42:00.002-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

I did this Elf Yourself last year also and it still cracks me up to watch! They have added new dances this year..fun stuff!!!

Letdown..

2008-12-10T10:05:00.002-05:00

I've let myself down this week. I have only gone to spinning once this week and have done NOTHING else in the exercise department. I have NO motivation...I'm tired and just don't want to.....wahhhh!

Someone get me moving....I'm suppose to be participating in a challenge and so far I must be the loser. HELP!!

Blog Candy for the Stampers!

2008-12-08T08:53:00.001-05:00

Here's a great giveaway for my stamping friends...check out this site:
http://clairebsd.blogspot.com/

Good luck!!

WEIGH-IN Results

2008-12-07T16:07:00.003-05:00

I'm down a pound today and am very excited for tomorrow I am joining a challenge to move it more!! Here's the link to the site I found this on: http://runtothefinish.blogspot.com/.

Why don't you consider joining the challenge as well?!

I Don't Get IT!!!

2008-12-01T08:44:00.002-05:00

Ok, this morning I decided to jump on my friend, the scale just to see what it had to say. I was down 1.8 lbs from yesterday's weigh in. I felt like this mornings weigh in was more accurate than yesterday. I truely felt I had lost some weight yesterday but was surprised to see the numbers!! Oh well, I'll go by yesterday's just to keep things simple but just wanted to post my scale issues!

WEIGH-IN WEEK 9 Results

2008-11-30T11:26:00.003-05:00

It's a love/hate relationship with my scale right now. I'm ashamed to report a 2.2lb gain. Ughhh! Hopefully my hard work on the bike and treadmill will catch up with me next Sunday.

And butter, I love it but it's killing me. I've got to stop putting it on toast, english muffins and bagels. Actually, I shouldn't even be eating those carbs either. I'll get there.........

Bird Cards

2008-11-29T21:05:00.004-05:00

I was able to make 3 more cards tonight, yea!!! I immediately thought of my cousin Lyndsey when I saw this paper. This is part of her Christmas gift. I've loved these little birds for so long now and was happy to finally be able to use them!

Here they are and the materials I used:

paper: very vanilla, Boho Chic Funky Fix & Boho Chic Whimsy Wild by Urban Window Collection

ink: close to cocoa

marker: old olive

stamps: Decorative Birds by Hero Arts

Birthday Card

2008-11-28T19:29:00.008-05:00

I thought I'd share this card I just made for my friend Jane. It's a pretty basic card but I was on the hunt for just that because I might mass produce them for Christmas gifts to go into a hand made folder to match the cards. We'll see how that goes!! Anyway, back to the card, I'll probably add some ribbon to the bottom of the vanilla, it needs a little something...

Here are the supplies I used:

Cardstock: SU Very Vanilla, Plum Blossoms by Fresh Prints and Burgandy, source unknown
Stamps: SU Springtime Stems
Ink: SU Perfect Plum, SU Old Olive

*ETA- Just added the ribbon...here's the picture. I like it much better!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2008-11-27T19:22:00.004-05:00

Well, I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! We sure did....lots of good food (4 different stuffings!) and of course great memories spent with the family. Here's a couple of pictures from our day:

I'm still thankful...

2008-11-25T13:40:00.003-05:00

I just really haven't had much time to post. I've made a conscience effort to think of the happenings of each day and what I am grateful for. I may not put it into writing, but it's on my mind....

I've been busy with birthday party preparations, work, household stuff, trying to find time to get my Christmas cards assembled and some scrapbooking time...and working out..phew! I'm just busy!

So, for those who may be reading this or mainly for my own acknowledgement, I am thankful on a daily basis I just haven't blogged about it!

Follow-Up on yesterday's weigh-in

2008-11-24T19:49:00.003-05:00

Okay, I didn't have much to say about my weight loss yesterday because I was just so darn happy!! But the more I thought about it and how long I've been tracking my weight on this blog, I got a little disappointed in myself. It's taken me 8 weeks to come up with a 2.8 lb weight loss. That's bull and there's just no excuse for it. I've been paying for a gym membership since 9/1 that will expire on 12/31 and I've used the treadmill at home. I go to spin class at least 3 times a week and more often 4 times. What's the problem? It's what is going in my mouth, it's portion control, it's willpower.

I discovered another blog last week that really inspired me. This person has so much talent, I was admiring her stamping ideas & projects and then as I kept reading some of the older posts I came across her weightloss journey. Let's just say she's accomplished a lot in 12 weeks. So, as of today, I am going to try to follow in her footsteps. They will be baby steps but I am proud that I've lost anything at all. I just need to build on that. So my initial goal of losing 35 lbs stands, I just need to give myself a good kick in the butt to get there!

WEIGH-IN WEEK 8 Results

2008-11-23T09:40:00.003-05:00

YEA!!! Today I love my scale...I had a 1.2lb loss, yipee!!
'nuf said :)

Birthday Party Pictures

2008-11-22T17:08:00.003-05:00

Erin celebrated her 7th birthday with her school friends and 3 of her cousins at Head Over Heels Gymnasium today. She was so excited for this birthday and the party that went with it!

Happy Birthday little one!

Happy Birthday Erin!!!

2008-11-21T19:59:00.001-05:00

What do you get when you have ribbon, tissue paper, stickers, mini pens & tootsie pops, a HSM mini stamp and toilet paper rolls??

Tada! Goody bags for 15 little girls!

Made with love for my "baby" Erin who just turned 7.

Happy Birthday Erin!

Day 14 and I am thankful for...

2008-11-16T13:04:00.001-05:00

Well, today I am thankful that it is the last day of cat-sitting for my dad! He asked us to watch his cat for the weekend starting on Thursday. We've never had a cat before and don't consider ourselves "cat people" but I have to say he was good and not too much of a pain.

I had to take one allergy pill the first day and didn't get much sleep for 3 nights but overall he wasn't too bad.

But I have to say I was thankful to bring him home :)

Weigh-In Week 7 Results...

2008-11-16T11:45:00.001-05:00

Ok, I'm pretty happy this morning, I had a 1 pound weight loss this week! That's pretty amazing given the fact everytime I ate last week I really wasn't hungry. I definitely eat for no reason at all so I'm working on that.

Here's my workout plan for the week:

Sunday: treadmill
Monday: spin class
Tuesday: spin class
Wednesday: treadmill, weights
Thursday: spin class
Friday: treadmill or spin class
Saturday: treadmill or spin class, weights

I'll update next Sunday what I actuall did but I'm off to a good start because I already did the treadmill today. I think I've mentioned before that I am not really a runner but I've been trying intervals on the treadmill and last week I did run for 1 straight mile without stopping. Today my goal was to get 2 miles in before 30 minutes was up and I DID IT!!

Blog Candy found here...

2008-11-15T22:27:00.001-05:00

http://franmade.blogspot.com/2008/11/blogoversary-candy-time.html

If stamping is your thing, leave a comment on the above blog and you might just win! Although, I hope it's me :)

Day 13 and I am thankful for....

2008-11-15T16:03:00.002-05:00

Right now I am thankful for the short little nap I took this afternoon! It wasn't sound sleep or long by any means but it felt good to just rest.....

I went to spin class this morning and it was a hard workout. Our instructor on Saturdays is tough but it's a great workout, rest this afternoon felt good!

Day 12 and I am thankful for....

2008-11-14T12:30:00.002-05:00

Today I am thankful for FRIDAY! We're now on 4 day work weeks and even though I don't like the reason "why" I'm off...I LOVE having the day off!!!
This morning I stacked some wood for a surprise for my husband and took a gazzilion bags of leaves to the dump for my mom.
Now I'm going to chill and catch up on Y&R...gotta love the DVR so you can fly through the shows...

Day 11 and I am thankful for....

2008-11-13T20:30:00.003-05:00

I'm having a hard time today thinking of what I am thankful for. I suppose I am thankful that my husband has a job which I am. But his job is effected by oue economy as well. It's not in jeopardy as of right now but at this point I don't think anything is set in stone. So yes, for today I am thankful my husband has a job and that we can pay our bills and have a roof over our head and food to eat. Turns out I do have a lot to be thankful for today....

Day 10 and I am thankful for....

2008-11-12T19:58:00.002-05:00

Once again, I am thankful for my wonderful husband! I was able to get dinner in the oven before I had to leave for an ever so important hair appt tonight. When I got home, he had the table set, the peas & mashed potatoes cooked and pot roast on the table. Smelled so yummy in here...yup I love him!!

Day 9 and I am thankful for....

2008-11-11T20:34:00.003-05:00

Today I am thankful for my mom. She took me out for lunch today and it was just nice to have an adult conversation with her without my beloved little ones around!

Thanks mom :)

Day 8 and I'm Thankful for...

2008-11-10T17:00:00.004-05:00

Today I am thankful that I have a job. I've worked for my father in my family business for just over 4 years now. My grandfather started the company 51 years ago so it's always been a part of me. It wasn't until 4 years ago that I became dependent on our company for a weekly paycheck.

Today we announced downsizing and lay-offs would start immediately. Our 180 employees will soon be down to half in an effort to keep our business running. These last few weeks have been very hard on my dad and I'm just thankful to have him and be there to lean on if I can....

On another note, I told my girls about this blog and that I was writing what I am thankful for everyday for the month of November. I asked them what they are thankful or grateful for. We'll work on it again tonight because they were very distracted but Bryn said she was thankful for the food we were eating and Erin said she was thankful for a sister that loves her. Very appropriate answers given they actually liked the dinner they were given!!

Day 7 and I am thankful for....

2008-11-09T16:51:00.004-05:00

It is almost 5pm and I am thankful my husband will be home tonight. He left yesterday with a group of friends for their annual trip to watch the Patriots game. I'm tired, I miss him, the girls miss him and I just like it better when he's home!!

Tomorrow night I'm going to ask the girls one thing they are thankful for....stay tuned!

WEIGH-IN WEEK 6 Results

2008-11-09T11:38:00.003-05:00

I really didn't want to step on the scale today but since I committed myself to this weekly weigh-in I jumped on and to my surprise I am the same as I was last Sunday. Is this scale even functioning properly?! It's better than a gain, so I'll take it!

I went to spin class 3 times last week and did my treadmill at home on Friday. I was very proud of myself as I ran for 1 mile straight. I'm not a runner so this felt like a huge accomplishment. I plan on doing it again tomorrow morning also since I can't make it to spin class in the evening.

Day 6 and I am thankful for....

2008-11-08T18:23:00.002-05:00

Today I am most grateful for my family. I love my girls and husband beyond everything in this world. My kids are both so different from each other in both personality and appearance but they give our house life and I couldn't imagine it without them. I am blessed.....

Day 5 and I am thankful for....

2008-11-07T08:30:00.000-05:00

Today I am thankful for our washing machine! Crazy I know because I really don't like doing laundry but when you get in your bed after putting fresh clean sheets on, it feels like heaven to me!!!!

Day 4 and I am thankful for....

2008-11-06T14:09:00.002-05:00

Today I am thankful the Halloween Candy is almost gone. Of course, I helped eat a good portion of it! My kids just don't need that much sugar and really neither do my husband & I.

I put a good size bag of candy bars in the freezer with the intent of using them for cookies closer to Christmas. I've never done that before so I am hoping it works out!

Candy

2008-11-05T21:55:00.004-05:00

Ok, I've seriously had enough of the Halloween CANDY!!! I eat it like it's my main course and my kids want it for an after school snack. From 10/14-10/31 I didn't have one single piece of candy and I think I'm going to go back to that restriction. I just don't have the willpower to grant myself "just one"! It's a good thing, really......

Speaking of candy, a blog I follow is giving a very generous gift away for any of you stamping fans. Here's the link to some sweet blog candy:

http://acreativeneed.wordpress.com/2008/11/02/candy-for-you/

I have spin class tomorrow and will take myself off of the candy beginning tomorrow also.
Enough is enough (I wish I knew how many times I've said that one!)....

Day 3 and I am thankful for....

2008-11-05T19:13:00.001-05:00

Today I am thankful for my neighbor! He has a John Deere that most men would envy and picks up our leaves in our yard. I haven't raked yet this year....seems strange as it's something I've done every fall for like... ever!

That being said, I love the fall season. I love our beautiful State with our vibrant colors of fall. This tree is in our front yard and is so pretty with the sun shining through. Yes, I am thankful for fall....

Day 2 and I am thankful for....

2008-11-04T12:06:00.001-05:00

Today I voted in a historical election. I am thankful I have the "right" to be heard. That being said, I don't consider myself a political person and I typically avoid discussing politics if possible!

I am thankful my daughters have been learning about the Presidential Candidates and are beginning to understand the importance of opinion as well as the values of being an American.

Tomorrow I will be thankful the election is over! I don't know about you, but I'm tired of the media coverage and all the banter. It's probably just beginning as far as the media is concerned but nonetheless, I'll be happy!!

Day 1 and I am Thankful for...

2008-11-03T21:59:00.003-05:00

Today I am thankful for finding Sherry's blog via Scrapshare. She has challenged us bloggers to post one thing you are thankful for each day of November. Here's the link if you want more information on this great idea http://midnitescrapper.blogspot.com/2008/11/gratitude-month-november.html. I think this is a great idea and I look forward to participating.

You know there is something else I'd be grateful for!! I don't know how to edit a link. I see this on other blogs all the time where someone will just post Sherry for instance and when you click on it you go to her site. The link above it soooo long, isn't there a way I can do this?!

WEIGH-IN WEEK 5 Results

2008-11-02T15:31:00.002-05:00

Before I stepped on the scale this morning I had planned on using "DAMN CANDY" as a title. Then to my surprise I saw a 1.4lb weight LOSS. I could scream I'm so happy! But that halloween candy is going to do me in...we're swimming in it! I'm going to bring a bunch to work tomorrow just to get it out of here!

By the way, I did make it to Halloween without eating candy or drinking a diet coke. Unfortunately, I've made up for the candy :(

Back to spinning tomorrow....

WEIGH-IN WEEK 4 RESULTS updates in red

2008-10-26T12:10:00.007-04:00

I have nothing to report, once again I have neither lost nor gained any weight. I thought posting my weekly weigh-in would be a good idea and help keep me accountable to myself. It's embarrassing to me though. I can't understand why I have a lack of motivation to lose this excess weight. It's so unhealthy for me.

I don't want to be a debbie-downer though and I have every intention of giving myself a good kick in the butt. Here's my plan for the remainder of the week:

Sunday (today): strength train, pilates neither happened
Monday: treadmill spinning class
Tuesday: spin class, pilates spinning but no pilates
Wednesday: treadmill, strength train weights but no treadmill
Thursday: spin class misson accomplished!
Friday: treadmill, strength train nope!
Saturday: Spin-A-Thon charity event event canceled and I did nothing!
Sunday: rest day

The good news is that I haven't had one piece of candy or soda since Tuesday, Oct. 14th. This has been an interesting battle that I might blog about later on. The fighting inside my mind about this has been almost comical to me! Anyway, I set 10/31 as a goal and I am going to make it and that is very exciting to me because everyday at work I walk past a bowl of candy corn and I haven't had one single piece!!

Fall Decorating

2008-10-20T13:44:00.004-04:00

Here's a link to a blog I like to visit with great ideas: http://feelingscrappyclasses.blogspot.com/2008/10/easy-fall-decorating-ideas.html and this is also the reason I decided to post a picture of my mantle!

I love having a fireplace and a mantle to decorate. Unfortunately, I fail during the non-holiday times of the year but I love to decorate during fall and Christmas time! Of course, we always love looking at our girls!!

WEIGH-IN WEEK 3 RESULTS

2008-10-19T10:05:00.001-04:00

Nothing gained, nothing lost.....oh well. Given the yummy food and the wine I had last night, I'm thankful! We went to a friend's house for a diaper party. Friends of ours are about to have their 3rd baby on Friday (3rd girl!!) and we all got together last night. Very fun evening!

Willpower

2008-10-16T08:44:00.002-04:00

Today is the 3rd day I have not had any soda or candy. I'm doing ok without the diet coke and have had one seltzer instead. I've convinced myself that seltzer is not really soda, I hope this is actually true!!! Yesterday I was sooooooo tempted to have some candy. I walk by a candy dish many times during the day at work. Right now it's filled with candy corn...yum! But I haven't had any. My girls have some halloween candy that I've managed to stay out of also. Yesterday I had my hand on the box that the candy is in but didn't even open it. Willpower, it's a battle!!

My Necklace Holder

2008-10-13T10:44:00.004-04:00

Here's a picture of my latest craft project. I've never liked how my necklaces have been organized so I made this from a cork board I purchased at Staples. Most of my picture frames in our home are black so I thought this would fit in well. I just purchased some fabric, popped out the cork from the frame, covered it and put the frame back on. So far I really like what I've done and my necklaces are more organized. I just don't like the "jumbo" push pins! I'm viewing them as temporary until I spot something I like better.

I'm not sure who to credit this idea to, I know I saw something similar but can't place it right now!

WEEKLY WEIGH-IN Week 2 (not good)

2008-10-12T13:52:00.002-04:00

Well, I stepped on the scale this morning and just knew things wouldn't be good. I am up +1 pound. All I have to say is don't make TOLL HOUSE PIE if you are trying to lose weight or have no willpower!

WEIGH-IN WEEK 1 RESULTS

2008-10-05T09:53:00.003-04:00

Scared of what the scale might reveal, I reluctuntly stepped on this morning and the news was good and bad. First, I didn't meet my goal of -2lbs but I was down .6lbs. BIG DEAL, but I can assure you I'd be much more upset if it was in the other direction. So I'll take it where I can get it and try harder this week.

Struggles

2008-10-02T14:44:00.005-04:00

I just posted a link to my friend's blog who is on a weight-loss journey inspired by her upcoming wedding. This also happens to be the wedding I am trying to get healthy for. Weight issues are such a common issue in this world. For myself, I am not only doing this to feel better about myself and to be healthy (bye, bye high cholestrol) but I want to be here in this world for my family for a very long time. Not only that, but I'm my girls best role model and I need to be the best I can be.

35 pounds...

2008-09-28T10:59:00.002-04:00

that's what I want to and really need to lose. I have given myself a deadline of March 1, 2009 for a couple of reasons. 1. A high school friend is getting married in March and I'd like to look good and just as important, feel good about myself. 2. We're going to Disney in April and again, I'd like to actually be in some of the pictures instead of hiding behind the camera.

So there you have it....every Sunday I'll post my weight LOSS and try to get a grip on things!!

The BIG Weigh-In

2008-09-27T16:11:00.003-04:00

Since I have eaten just about as terrible as one can this week, I am going to officially deem Sunday as my weigh-in day AND I am going to post it all here for you to see. Which shouldn't be too scarey since I'm quite sure noone is reading this blog anyway!! But just might make me more accountable!?!?

I have some serious goals I NEED to meet in terms of weight loss and I just can't keep going the way I am now. Stay tuned for the stats post tomorrow.

I Feel Bad About My Neck

2008-09-24T20:50:00.002-04:00

Ok, so I've never read the book in my title today nor do I really know what it's about but....MY NECK HURTS!!! This morning, right before I brought the girls to school I sneezed and BAM....I pulled a muscle in my neck/shoulder area. I've done it before but not in awhile. It wasn't a good start out the door.

On a brighter note, I went on Erin's class trip to the apple orchard and picked some very yummy apples with the class. They could only pick 2 apples off the tree so I'm bringing both Bryn & Erin back on Friday to pick away. There's nothing like eating a freshly picked apple!!!

Off to bed to dream about spinning at 6am............

Tired Legs

2008-09-23T11:57:00.003-04:00

I went to spinning last night, best one yet!! I liked everything about it, the instructor, the music and I pushed myself harder than ever. This morning's class was another story. I like the instructor and her music but my legs were so tired from last nights class! I gave it a good effort though. I'll keep plugging away, the scale will move soon enough....I hope.....

A Change of Heart

2008-09-22T09:23:00.003-04:00

I planned on bringing the girls to Church on Sunday morning while Greg was golfing. Bryn had no problem with it, we hadn't gone in quite awhile and I wanted to get back into the routine of going. Erin on the other hand complained and said she just went with her class on Friday. I didn't feel like arguing with her so I told her we could call gumma (my mom!) and see if she could stay with her while we went to Church. As soon as the words were out of my mouth I regretted saying it because I was giving her an out which wasn't the right approach. ANYWAY....we all went to Church and after a couple of minutes, Erin leaned over to me and said "Mom, you know when you don't want to do something but then you do it and than you are glad you did? Yes, I know what you mean, why? I'm glad I came even though I didn't want to."

That kid amazes me sometimes, you just never know what you're going to get. Which is why I love her so!!

Spinning Away!!!

2008-09-18T11:38:00.004-04:00

I've been spinning at the gym about 8 times now and although I'm not addicted to it, I am really enjoying it and loving how much it makes me sweat!! I'm going to try to take a pilates class next week and continue to keep walking. I am doing A LOT better on the sweets and just need to watch my calorie intake and hope all this work pays off.

I think I'll start posted my weight loss on a weekly basis and see if that makes me any more accountable for myself! Let's hope so!!

Sweet Tooth & Diet Coke

2008-08-28T11:56:00.006-04:00

I have a problem and it's big......My sweet tooth is just out of control lately. I can't stop buying boxes of Charleston Chews! I unfortunately discovered "mini" charleston chews (mind you, I didn't ever like the regular over sized candy bar growing up!) but somehow can't stop with these little bite-size treats! Serioulsy, where is the will power?? And why do I feel I need to drink a diet coke everyday? I've actually cut back from one daily to maybe 3-4 week but still it's just not good for you.

Why is this a problem you might be asking yourself? Well I need to lose 30-40 pounds and the candy & soda shouldn't be anywhere near my list of foods to consume. I've needed to lose this weight since I was pregnant (I haven't been pregnant since 1999 and 2001).

I've made small steps recently to get back to a healthy self. I just did my 3rd Spinning class ever this morning and I walked on Sunday. I really need to walk, jog, run whatever I can just about every day of the week. I feel so much better during the day when I've had a workout. I use to be a fit person, I just need to find her again.

As of today, right now I am committing to at least 30 minutes of cardio 5 times a week and strength training 30-60 minutes weekly. No more candy, everything in moderation..

Who out there can keep me accountable? Oh, I'm suppose to do that?!?!

First Day of School

2008-08-27T10:13:00.008-04:00

My little babies started school today. Okay so they're not babies; Erin id in 1st grade and Bryn is now in 4th grade. I do wish I could keep them this age forever though, so young and innocent.

Bryn really likes her teacher and classmates. She's excited for many things this year and that she gets to write in cursive all year! Erin is excited because they are going to learn about lady bugs and that kid loves bugs, frogs...just about any creature! Neither one got homework on the first day but Erin said she is tomorrow and they "haven't even learned anything yet"!!! Boy she cracks me up.

We can't wait to see how the rest of the year goes because this morning both girls were up and ready in record time. This is especially rare for Erin so it'll be interesting to see how the rest of the mornings go.

That's all for now....stay tuned....I'm feeling like I need to confess about my addiction to diet coke and charleston chews tomorrow!!

My Very First Blog Entry EVER!!!

2008-08-26T15:00:00.000-04:00

Well, I've done it. After reading many blogs online, I've decided to try it out myself. I am not sure if this is for me or not but I'm very willing to give it a try. I'm not even sure who is going to read this stuff! Anyway, here I am ready to write the world about myself, my family, work, friends, life and who knows what else.

I guess that's all for right now...I have lots more to say, more to share but this sunny day is calling me to go outside and enjoy it while I can..........