and the winner is...

drumroll please............

it's kathleen....yay!!

Please e-mail me your addy to jillguimont@comcast.net

Funny though, I just have to make clear that kathleen's name did not go into the jar 4 times. Heehee! I can just imagine... we all have a little impatience when blogger acts up don't we? lol!

Thanks so much to everyone for playing along, you ladies have some kickin' scrappy talent. Way to go chicks!!

I do wish everyone could be a winner today. Until then, I am happy to have provided some of you with a good "kick in the pants!"

Happy day friends!!!

Make it Colorful **RAK update**

I just love an RAK, it sure does feel good to give happily!

Let me see, can I tempt you even more? I am offering up some fun little things here, Heidi Swapp tapes, KI stamps (note to self set), MME rub on's, color pencils--stamped with my motto for this RAK, "make it colorful." Ribbon bundle, strips of fabric, note pad and of course my all time favorite little sugary treat--Smarties!

What am I babbling for, here is a full-on peek at the goodies up for grabs...

So come on, you know you want to join the fun!**Because of the holiday, I have decided to draw the winner on Wednesday afternoon PST** :)

Have a lovely holiday weekend friends!

all my best... xo

**RAK involved challenge** fun stuff...

I've been thinking, I figure that I average about 10 days (and maybe more) between postings. What a bad blogger I have been. Blogging will usually get the shaft, as there is always something else taking precedence. But.... man oh man, I do miss you gals!! :)

No complaints here, I have been scrapping almost everyday since Friday. Thanks KP!! I finally had a moment to pick up a kit, or two and have some fun. Only after I froze in a moment of overwhelming kit compulsion. Here I was thinking that I hadn't opened a kit in forever, truth be told it was just since January. Since splurging back in February, I thought it was about time I unpack some goodies. Each of the fabulous add-on's were a must have that month. Needless to say, I immersed myself in a colorful frenzy this past weekend and opened up both March's Rock Star and February's Funky Town.

February has to be my favorite month so far, I am so in love with all the colors!

Back to my overwhelming-ness, I had no idea where to begin. Oddly uncharacteristic of me, but true this time. I pay close attention to the message boards and often read "kit addiction confessions," stories of unopened kits piling up, etc., etc., etc... You get the picture.

Without fail, each month I really look forward to the DT gallery at Poppy Ink. So that's where I started my creative process this time. There is some ultra fabulous talent out there, I especially love the way Heather embellishes. Of course, that got me thinking. I never quite bring myself to actually "use" my embellies, and I mean really "use" them up. Why is it that we have a tendency to want to hoard these pretty little lovelies? After all they were made to be seen right?

The following LO's I shamefully scraplifted almost to a "T" This first one is from Heather's March gallery.

this one too...Can you say copy cat... this one here is a lift of the lovely Amber Skolinick. It's a fact, I worry about EVERYTHING. I loved everything about this and the message fit perfectly, thanks Amber!!

Here's my challenge:

Right now, quit saving and hoarding. Unleash your inner creative genius. If you have any unopened kits, pick one and by golly use and abuse your stuff. If you get stuck, try scraplifting from the galleries. Embellish to you hearts content, and then some, and then some more. Upload your work somewhere and post a link to it here in the comments section. On Tuesday afternoon I will randomly draw a name for the fabulous RAK anxiously awaiting a new home! RAK is open to all, not just those with un-opened kits and hoarders alike, anyone can participate!! Excited to see what you bring, have some fun and remember embellish it up!!

So now you know, I had the best time scraplifting a few of the gallery LO's, even just taking bits and pieces.... it was just the jump start I needed to get going again. Thanks PI, you rock!

**RAK is a darling little shirt (also PI inspired). It is a lime green with silver and grey owlies, sz Med. I bought myself one and thought what a great little RAK it would make. Also, I have done some serious spring organizing/cleaning around here, you can be sure that I will include a few fun scrappy items too! Think Heidi Swapp, new KI stamps, ribbon, laces, flowers and even some fabric snippets!

Last but not least, be sure to check out my etsy shop, I finally had a chance to upload some new items. Which I hope to be able to do on a more regular basis. I have lowered my prices altogether. Check out the three standard size totes down marked down to $25 a pop, woot-woot for a bargain! TFL :)

Happy creating and sweet dreams...

smiles,
Jillian

Make a Wish...

To all my dear friends, here's wishing that your Mother's Day was overflowing with love and joy!

To my Mother, the best Mother a girl could ask for. Thank you for loving me, teaching me to love myself and others and showing me the ways of life. You are truly the reason behind who I am today, I love you more than words!


First was Church, then came brunch, and then it was back home where I indulged in a long overdue nap. With my second wind, I opted for some scrappy fun. I spent the second half of Mother's Day being creative and crafty. Had a chance to break open my Jenni Bowlin Kit... especially love the combo of colors this month.

Sweet dreams... xo

Just Having Fun!

Ah yes, I have been busy....busy in general, some things never change. But there is always time for fun, after all it is rule #1. So, all three of us went out and about to work on completing assignment #3, for my photography class. Here is proof...

So tell me, (aside from the cutie model) don't you just love my fabulous metal chair? Perfect "prop" for photography wouldn't you agree?

Last week my dear friend Corie called me while out running her errands, she had just left her neighborhood and spotted a pile of what looked to be items that a neighbor would be getting rid of. She told me that on her way back home, if he was still out working/cleaning his garage she would ask, that if he was throwing it away, could she have it. She explained to me that it had my name written all over it, she knew with my "craftiness" that I'd be able to give it a new life, paint it pretty, etc..

Much to my delight, she was able to snag this old chair for me, and warned that it was in need of TLC. Later that day I stopped by her house to pick it up, and I was beyond thrilled at just how "me" it truly was. I LOVED it at first sight. It is the most beautifully distressed piece of turquoise metal on earth. Gift's like this are one in a million, thanks Corie! I promise to give it all the TLC in the world, but I think I'll leave it just the way it is.

Oh Happy Day!!!

Exactly One Year Ago Today....

This Girl...

and This Guy....

Said "I do."

They are Living...

Happy 1 Year Anniversary to us!

My Love for you is more than words can describe.

You are truly a one of a kind, upstanding guy,

and I am blessed to have you in my life.

You are my best friend in the whole world.

I Love you...xo

JP + KP = True Love

Peeps and Cherry Blossoms

Hola Peeps!

So tell me, how was your Easter holiday? Ours was just super! First things first, we attended an awesome service at church yesterday, where we of course celebrated the Resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ. He is Risen indeed! We then spent the afternoon hunting eggs, eating well and visiting with family at Kevin's Dad's house. They live in Jamestown, CA the most adorable little foothill town. A very happy day!

Ok, so speaking of Peeps, I just can't resist the cuteness about them. You might already know that they make Peep everything these days, (stuffed toys, etc.) and that makes me happy! Especially since I am not a huge fan of their sugary, marshmellowy flavor and squishy spongy texture. Can you say choc-o-holic... ah, yes Miss Bella enjoyed every last morsel of chocolate that we weren't able to "save for later" and only so she wouldn't make herself ill eating every piece in the basket. That's my girl. Yesterday was candid really, I couldn't help but marvel at the way it seemed Bella knew exactly what to do. She could have fooled anyone that this was her first "real" Easter, crazy how kids just know these things isn't it? She hunted eggs like a pro, very efficient nonetheless. And the way she tiptoed around the yard filling up her basket was just altogether very sweet. Wouldn't you agree that the innocence of a child can make any holiday that much lovelier.

I had fun crafting the most darling little Spring project on Saturday. Just in time for the Easter holiday. The "how-to" was featured in the April issue of Better Homes and Gardens. I picked up the flowers at Michael's, they were on sale for a buck. This happy little spring pick-me-up is also perfect as a festive centerpiece for any occasion.

Magazine copy compliments of my Mom ;)

Go on make one yourself, it's good for the soul! xo

Oh Happy Day!!!

Hello to you and Happy Friday!!!

I am headed to a little event in Downtown Tracy called "First Friday." It will fall on the first Friday of each month during Spring-Summer. Downtown merchants stay open a bit later, while live music sets the mood. Think something similar to that of a farmers market set-up. How I got involved... So there is a darling little fashion parlor (think all things hip, chic and sparkly) called Blush. After browsing around her shop one day many months ago, Stacey (the owner) and I were chatting about my handbags....the rest is history. She is a super sweet gal and especially savvy business owner. "First Friday" is something new to Tracy all together, and I am thrilled to say that she invited me to join her. In a nut shell, I show up with all my goods, set up a pretty little table and sell my handbags to my hearts content. She offered a pretty sweet deal not to be passed up!

Here is my latest bag, just finished it last night....

On another note, I know I've been talking about this Shabby Chic altered book I am working on. It's a project I will be teaching at Youngplay on June 1st. It's only a thought right now, but I was going to put maybe 2-3 additional kits together for my etsy shop. No directions, just a pretty little coordinating papercrafting style kit. Included would be the old book, papers, laces/ribbons, fabric trims, flowers, etc. Anyhoo, here is a peekie for you.

Well, I am off to Blush, but I have to admit I am a little frazzled. I am still hobbling around while my bum foot heals. Go ahead and say it, you think I'm nuts!....and I'd have to agree with you today. Really though, KP is staying home with Bella. It was my parents who, so graciously volunteered to set up and help me out tonight. That's right, volunteered, they are just too good to me. Mom & Dad....you guys rock! (and "rock" is a good thing, means you are completely "awesome") And I love you for always wanting the best for me, even today

Speaking of recovering, I am not allowed to remove the bandage until my follow-up appointment next week. I guess I didn't take into account Easter is this coming weekend, bummer....I guess that means no following Bella around with my cam at the Easter egg hunt, I'll have to have to nominate KP to be in charge of that. Also, no pretty shoes for me on Sunday, only this pretty little orthopedic shoe I have to wear!

Finally, I wanted to wish you all a very Happy Easter filled with eggs galore, oodles of candy, Peeps and whatever else you look forward to at this time of year. May you have a blessed holiday with Family and Friends!

Until next time....xo

Polka Dots, Projects and Purses

Hello my sweet lovable friends and family!! This is a quickie post this evening. In the meantime I am actively searching for the time to get back to blogging more often. I really miss it, believe me. It always seems that have so much to say and so little time....anyone else with me here? I haven't even had much time on the computer these days in general, so I apologize in advance to those of you who have blogs that I have been neglecting. Although, back to the computer I shall be for the next 12 weeks. Today was my first day of class with the fabulous Wendy Schulz, and so far so good. A very excited, eager student I am to learn all I can from her wealth of knowledge about the art of photography.

I have been busy working on some new fabulous purses. I even have a third size to the mix. More about all the juicy details next time. But, I will give you just a hint of info....there is good news for you gals, I have lowered my prices especially for etsy. Give me a couple weeks and I should have it all dialed in over there. I have also been working on some class projects for my LSS YoungPlay Memories. Did I mention it is the largest (independently owned) scrapbook store in the world? It's just too fabulous for words, a must visit if you are ever in the Central Valley. Anyhow, these classes I have been working on have given me a great idea. I am thinking of putting together some project kits to sell in my etsy shop. (Like I don't have enough irons in the fire already) I know call me nuts, I deserve it...lol! Sadly, I haven't scrapped much lately just for myself, I was really hoping to get some "me" time in this coming weekend? Let's say, oh after the egg hunt on Saturday and in between family dinner's, etc... on second thought, maybe this weekend wont work after all? Well, soon I hope!

I just have to share with you all the most adorable little dress my aunt Sally sent this past weekend. She lives in Southern Ca. and just loves my sweet little Bella more than words can say, and that makes my heart completely happy. I know that she thinks of us often and never fails to keep all of us in her prayers. She is a loyal reader of my blog and I love that she is so involved in our lives. She is a blessing to our family and I just want the world to know how much I love and treasure her. I look forward to seeing Bella all dolled up in this precious dress, thank you so very much!

And finally, I wanted to let you all know that I am having surgery on my right foot tomorrow morning, wish me luck. Not to worry though, it's minor...at least I hope so! Thankfully KP is taking the day off to be able to baby me if needed, and believe me I am looking forward to that. I have a cyst on the tendon just above my big toe, ewww. Happy to see it go, I'll keep you all posted.

Sweet dreams...

Angler in Heaven

We had a fun-filled and productive weekend, besides stocking up on more landscaping whatnot's, which I am dying to share with you. I wanted to take pictures today, but as it turns out the weather woman was right, and it rained all afternoon. Although I refused to comply completely and managed to stay in flip flops all day. Can you tell I have a serious case of Spring fever? Anyone else feeling it as well?

Back to the events of the weekend, so we took a break on Saturday afternoon and headed to the Delta in Stockton to watch the weigh in at Weber Point for the "Duel in the Delta" tournament sponsored by the Bassmaster Elite Series. KP is an avid angler himself and was in true heaven this weekend. It was an altogether good time, we watched about 50 pro angler's and 50 co-angler's (amateur angler's from all over the US, many from local town's right here in the valley) weigh in one at a time. They narrowed down the top 50 to the 12 elite. Those 12 took on the waters of the San Joaquin Delta on Sunday for the final day, where California native and fan favorite Aaron Martens took first including a pocket full of change over $100,000.

After the weigh in we had a chance to mingle and shake hands with some of Bass fishing's top anglers. We met so many awesome anglers and some of our favorites included Skeet Reese, Aaron Martens, Kevin VanDam, rookie Derek Remitz, and longtime pro Denny Brauer.

Bassmaster Rookie Derek Remitz, it was easy to see he wasn't quite used to all the hype of being a pro angler, not just yet anyway. He ended up placing 2nd in the three day event, way to go Derek!

Tournament first place went to California native and fan favorite Aaron Martens.

Also a fan favorite and California native, Skeet Reese.
At the end of day 3 the 12 elite anglers gathered on stage for photos. I caught this shot as they were leaving to prepare for day 4, the final day. Can't wait for next year, KP has plenty of time to prepare himself to participate as a co-angler, especially since he rocks the Delta waters. I have encouraged him to apply, I mean how awesome would it be to see him live a dream? I would honestly love nothing more that to see him on that stage next year. If anyone deserves a shot at this it's him, KP=Good Man.

Sweet dreams my friends...xo

Life is Good...

A wise friend once told me "Life will get back to good, it always does." And she was right. Not that life was really bad, on a scale from 1-10 I was feeling at about a 5.5. I'll be honest, the ups and downs of life can sometimes really get the best of you. I desire so much to thank each of you individually for your wisdom, support, kind words, prayers and most of all your friendship, you all are just too much sometimes. Too much in the most awesome way. Really, it boggles my mind sometimes what unique and sincere friendships a girl can have with so many miles in between. In reality I have never been face to face with many of you amazingly incredible women, and the fact that our friendships can grow and thrive is just an incredible thing to me.

On the home front we are doing very well. It's a process I tell you, and it sounds like some of you know just what I mean when I say this. Like with anything, I have my good days and my bad days, however mostly though I am copacetic with my emotions. You can imagine that some days it's easier and other days I search tirelessly to find that clear and present answer. All the while, getting there slowly.

You want to hear something really just too cool for words? I wish so much to do this gesture justice, so please bear with me... KP and I belong to a small group through church, it's a "Young Marrieds" group that we adore dearly. Our good friends Bret and Kim from the group dropped by yesterday evening to bring "a little something" for us. Well, I admit to having myself a long overdue break down, I was so moved by this "little something." It was the most delicate (I had to measure it as precise details are a must for this compassionate gesture). This precious 16"x19" blanket was hand knitted by Bret's mother. The most beautiful decorative pattern all in a soft white yarn. I am not sure if just a coincidence, but I couldn't help but relate the white yarn to that of the purity and innocence of an unborn child. Come to find out, she knits these small beauties for a local hospital, they are given to the families of still born and miscarried babies. It was wrapped up so sweetly and adorned with a tag that read so simply, so poignant "In Remembrance of Baby Paddack." It was one of the most divine things that ever touched my heart.

On another note, we have been busy enjoying the most beautiful spring like weather here in the valley. We have been spending any extra time we have in what will soon be our very own backyard oasis. We have lived in our home for three years this month and we are finally completing our backyard work in progress. We have had a wonderful patio for about a year now, but without grass and all the dazzling extras it was just no fun. Needless to say I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute shopping for all the necessities, of course. String lights, (you know the kind you see adorning lavish wedding tents). I have always loved the look of simple small light bulbs hanging from a draped wire and I am determined to incorporate that into our yard. New cushions for our patio furniture, lantern style landscape lighting.

Ummm, did I mention hubs is an electrician, in case I didn't... three cheers for my awesome hubby who is the most hardworking and completely handy man I know, lucky me!
Bella is having a ball helping Daddy with the "pinklers." She has never been so filthy in her 19 months as she has the past week, but oh what fun she is having. For a moment I cringe at the dirt and grime, all in the same moment my heart is filled with happiness while I watch her at play without a care in the world. Life is too short (I think to myself) she will spend plenty of time in her life "clean and proper." Dig in Missy, dig in!

So, although the leftovers around her face tell another story, note be made that we discovered real quick that she's not too crazy about the taste of mud pies. Guess I don't blame her!

Sweet dreams my friends, xo

Babies are Miracles

I have received a few messages with well wishes and wonderings of where I have been. I have always said that I truly appreciate those of you who look out for me and who miss me when I am gone for too long. Thank you for your concerns. I admit I have been avoiding my blog and just how I was to say the following to all of you. So here goes.

A little over a week ago on the 21st I went in for my 10 week pre-natal appt. to find out that one of two things may be going on with my pregnancy. One, that I may not be as far along as we initially thought. Or, the other being that I may not be carrying a viable fetus that at some point stopped growing, resulting in a miscarriage. The news was shocking and in an instant fear and anxiety consumed me. I would take an hcg (hormone) test that day and follow up with a second test on Friday morning. A comparison of the two tests would uncover the truth. In the meantime, all we could do was sit and wait. The evening before this appt. Kevin and I attended a pre-natal class (one which we had taken before while pg with Bella) in that class were several women pregnant with their 2nd and some their 3rd, it is mandatory with Kaiser that you take this series of classes with every pregnancy. Ironically, one of the first questions they ask you in this class is what are your concerns if any. Most everyone answered the same, fear of miscarriage. I never thought in a million years that would become our reality. Friday came and after a long drawn out day of anxiously waiting for the Dr. to call, we accepted a late phone call with the sad news, my levels had gone down and I had miscarried.

In between all of this I was attempting to pack for our trip to Hawaii, scheduled for the next morning. All along I was a wreck, to go or not to go? It was awful, I had been left wondering since Wed. morning, was I pregnant or did I lose my baby? Needless to say, there was very little sleep over those 3 days for me. I cried myself to sleep that night. I awoke the next morning with a feeling of emptiness. However, in an attempt to be strong for Bella, as she can’t stand to see Mommy upset. I held tightly to my faith and reminded myself that God has a reason for everything he does….although I admit, sometimes it’s hard not to ask why?

In the meantime we decided to go ahead with our plans to Hawaii, almost afraid that if I didn’t go I would wind up spending everyday after that curled up in a ball under my covers. Along with the support of my husband, daughter as well as my parents we left for Hawaii as planned. As it turns out, we had a wonderful time and the support of my loving family was the best thing a girl could ever ask for at a time like this.

Slowly but surely I am dealing, and ultimately I know all will be well again soon. I am completely convinced that these bumps in the road of life serve to make us stronger and wiser individuals. It doesn’t mean I don’t cry myself to sleep or that I don’t get angry and that I don’t ask why? After all, I am human.

I am more thankful than words can say for the life of my precious daughter. She is a true blessing never to be taken for granted. When I hear the words “Babies are Miracles” it will forever have a far greater meaning in my book. I firmly believe that babies are a gift from heaven and an amazing work of a gracious and loving God. On behalf of myself, and Kevin we thank you for your heartfelt prayers and support.

I'm Spilling the Beans...

Ok, so here it is.....my big news....I am pregnant and we are absolutely thrilled! The details: I am 9 weeks along and due on September 21, 2007. Thanks to those who have been on the lookout, I have been feeling just a wee bit tired and some nausea too. But all in all, feeling happy and getting excited! Needless to say, I haven't had much energy lately for all my usual duties...and I am already starting to worry about the incidentals such as a more suitable vehicle...my current car will fit two car seats, would be a tight fit I'm sure, but it will not hold for instance a double stroller and add, lets say a second diaper bag to the mix and I am looking at some cramped quarters, eeek....I am panicking too early aren't I? I know that most of you are across the states, at the risk of sounding crazy, you just never know...I am looking to sell my car. I will post more details and some photos if there is interest, so in the meantime let me know...

Don't you just love fun surprise packages and scrappy mail?? Well it has been quite a happy little mail week in the Paddack home. Today I received the most awesome swap package from Jennifer Henson, filled with an array of colorful flowers, ribbons and buttons and these never seen before super cool library style pocket thingy's...and the ribbons were absolutely perfect, none of which I already had in my stash--really love that!

I also received my first issue of Cottage Living Magazine compliments of Kimber-Leigh and a super fun RAK giveaway she was holding back in December... I am hooked and cannot wait for the next issue. Besides all the fabulous home decor ideas; which is just my style by the way, I couldn't help but wow at the most mouthwatering recipe for a Warm Artichoke and Spinach Dip... mmmm! Promise to make and share the results very soon.

Until next time...xo

Happy Valentines Day!!!

It's no secret, so I just have to say that I have the best friends in the whole world! So incredibly thoughtful and generous!!! Thank you so much to Jenny for the festive Valentine inspired goodies...The most adorable polka-dot flower pot, fabulous rubber stamps from Impress rubber stamps, sparkly pens, frilly trims, cookies and even some fun stuff for Bella (just to name a few)!

A big warm thank you to Susannah for the happy little package she sent filled with beautiful fabric and pom-pom trim, and a stamped image of two sweet little "in love" robots (not pictured...oops!) I Love it all!!!


Both packages of happy were just the pick me up I needed, your generosity and thoughtfulness does not go unoticed, you guys are the best friends a girl could ask for, love ya!

A Happy Valentines Day to all, may your day be filled with all kinds of lovely's!

kiss-kiss...

Scrapjacked Layout...

I participated in the first scrapjacking, these ladies have put together this way too cool for school blog called Scrapjacked. You have probably heard of it by now, as word recently swept through scrappy blogs and mssg boards. I highly suggest if you didn't participate this time, you gotta dive in next week!! It was awesome creative fun "jacking" one of Ali's layouts. I was even able to try something new, something I otherwise would not have done on my own. ::hint-hint:: my title sideways...! Thanks for dropping in today, happy day to all!

Tagged & Just for Laughs...

Ooohweee I am feeling awfully chatty tonight!

After my last post, I went to bed running through the days events like I always do, and I had to laugh at myself. You see, to those of your who read my blog, I try to give you a birds eye view of my latest adventure, newest hobby, my life in a nut shell. I know I am a sucker for my sweet Bella Gracey, thank you so much always dropping in and for always indulging me in the wonderful, heartfelt, happy comments you leave. I truly appreciate your loyalty! I have met some on the most marvelous women through my love and joy of scrapbooking, and through the art of blogging, and I want to say with all my heart, you all Rock big in my book!

So back to why I was laughing. If any of you out there can relate, let me know...I was going through the 200 some odd photos I had taken at UOP two days ago. Like most, I handpicked my 3 favorite to showcase. The three where Bella was most composed, "smiling pretty," and otherwise fully cooperating. I chose to show you our most refined moments, what I failed to show you was some of the shots I actually got a bigger kick out of. I think you'll enjoy this. So without further ado here they are each complete with caption:

I call this one angry Bella behind bars.

This next one is sassy Bella with a rather cute little pucker.

This one has a little story of it's own. Does anyone else have a child who is deathly afraid of the vacuum? Or who cannot stand the sound of a noisy lawn mower? Well, I do. The grounds keeping crew was busy at work manicuring the beautiful campus grounds and heaven forbid they use a leaf blower with 50 feet of us, hence the displeased face here!
The final photo is just too funny. We were standing a few feet from a large water fountain display and the water would sometimes splash outward, she is simply catching water droplets on her tongue, that's my girl!!

Allrighty, I had this strong urge to get this out of my system, sometimes the perfectionist in me needs to be liberated. I am going to really challenge myself to see the real side of life more often, it feels good! I tell ya, "poised and proper" isn't all it's cracked up to be.

Two more things before I go. The first being, I was tagged by Kelli to name 6 weird or quirky things about me. So here goes my list:

1. I cannot sleep with out a blanket covering my "exposed" ear. If I sleep on my back then I wrap the blanket around my head to cover both ears, the other night hubs and I joked that I need sleepytime ear muffs--I can see I have already told you too much!!! next...

2. I have a 13" TV in my bathroom, and when I blow dry my hair in the mornings, I must have the closed captioning on as to not miss a thing on either one of the following; GMA, Regis & Kelli, The View, etc. It is my best source of current events since I don't watch much other TV. Except Grey's which is on in 20 min (hurry-hurry!)

3. When I use a public restroom (like my daughter I cannot stand loud noises) I plug my ears when I flush, darn noisy institutional toilets!!

4. I annoyingly know and sing every word to every song on every station, be it country, rock , christian, pop whatever, you name it I probably know it. Poor hubs!

5. Besides that I love sharing all about my life and that of my family, I am actually a very private person, hard to believe I know, but true.

6. Finally, I have this uncontrollable urge to immediately look up a word that I may read or hear and do not know the meaning. I have me a special little link directly to Meriam Webster online. I am a loyal subscriber to MW's word of the day, love to broaden my vocab!!

This brings me to my last and final point tonight, I was reading Nicole's post from the 24th, I panicked when I did not know the meaning of nonplussed, now I had a good idea given the story she was telling, but I would not have been able to recite a definition. So I did what I always do, and here you go:

Nonplus: to cause to be at a loss as to what to say, think, or do.

With that said, be on the look out for future definitions. When I come across a 'new to me' word, I plan to share it with you. That way we can learn together!

Whew, that was a mouthful!!

Almost forgot, I am tagging Nicole, Kimber-Leigh and Jenny!

Peaceful Bliss

Still nice and quiet in my world. Just a whole lot of show and tell going on around here. Been busy digging into some kit goodness the past few days. I have some ideas for a mini album rolling around in my head, thinking that will be my next task. Until then, here are two LO's with my beautiful Jan. Poppy Ink Kit. Loved the gold ric-rac, and really enjoying putting a twist on my own handwriting. I have always avoided my handwriting, and therefore journaling. Ironically, I actually believe journaling to be a super vital part of preserving memories. So with that said, I am challenging myself to go beyond my comfort zone and get my write on. 'Dream with Faith,' was inspired by Jill and her ultra awesome handwriting, I loved the curly-Q style on her recent LO's. Just had to give it a try myself, needless to say I have decided to try it more often.

We took a much needed day out yesterday. My Mom, Bella and I strolled around the UOP campus, it was such a beautiful day to be out and about and the sky was the most vibrant shade of blue. The campus tower never looked so amazing against the sky.

You know me, I never can resist fun photos of little miss Bella, and of course I have to share them with you. It has been so cold lately and yesterday was such fun. Besides, it had been breaking my heart to hear a girl say, "Peas go owside Mama."



Sweet Dreams...

Show and Tell

I am feeling a little quiet today, found myself sitting back today just enjoying some of the little things around me. My Hubs was very sweet Friday night, he took over around here and let me get some LO's completed. More journaling here than I am used to, been trying to push myself to say a bit more in my art. Most of the items are from the January zingBOOM kit. As you will notice, I am hopelesly addicted to scallop edges, always putting a little here and there. Also added some stamping, and glitter for fun.