Still Jenny from the Block...

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner

2012-01-31T10:25:00.000-08:00

I used Random.org to pick a winner:
True Random Number Generator
Min: 1
Max: 6
Result:
1

WOO HOO, Rian! I'll send you the code.

Happy Valentine's Day!
xoxo

My Little Valentine - with a Giveaway!

2012-01-25T14:35:00.001-08:00

Valentine's Day is my favorite holiday ... pink, hearts, girlyness, sweets, celebrating love, sending cards, what's not to love?!

Speaking of cards, I've mentioned Tiny Prints before - their quality is truly incomparable. They have fun, original designs and frequently release promotions - like a FREE Valentines Day Greeting Card when you use coupon code TPGFREE17A. (Good through today!)

Tiny Prints has some super cute Valentines Cards - here are a couple of my faves:

Now the fun part - Interested in winning 50 Classroom Valentine’s Day Cards? Tiny Prints is giving me a code for 50 free cards - and I want to share it with one of you! Just leave a comment on this post by January 31, and I'll pick a winner.

PS Make sure you follow Tiny Prints on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest!

Commitment

2011-12-29T16:10:00.000-08:00

It's that time again ... time for resolutions, a clean start, a new year. Once again, I'll be participating in One Little Word.

I had to look back on this blog post to recall my past words:
2007: BELIEVE
2008: FOCUS
2009: BALANCE
2010: SIMPLIFY
2011: LOVE

And drumroll... my word for 2012: MORE!
I originally was going to go for LESS (stress less, weigh less, eat out less...) but wanted a positive spin on my word, so I'm going with MORE. I decided I want to love MORE, save MORE, move MORE, enjoy MORE, forgive MORE, and live MORE this year.

Since I couldn't even recall my 2010 word let alone remember doing anything with my word in 2011, I decided to make a commitment to making MORE a part of my life in 2012. I joined the One Little Word class, and look forward to documenting my word this year.

Oh ... but that's not all! I also just decided to do Project Life in 2012. I've enjoyed capturing my every day with past projects (Week in the Life and December Daily), but struggle with putting it all together. I want to stress less and document MORE! There are so many awesome Project Life ideas out there - but I'm aiming to just do it with less stress! It won't be perfect, but it will be my life!

Stay tuned to how Project Life and One Little Word impact my year ... maybe I'll even blog MORE in 2012. ;)

Tiny Prints

2011-11-16T16:28:00.000-08:00

I'm trying to get back in the swing of blogging! I know I've mentioned some cool companies lately, and I'm back with another ... Tiny Prints.

I first heard of Tiny Prints when I was searching for wedding stationery. The quality of the cards is unmatchable and they frequently offer specials for free cards. (Like today! Order a Thanksgiving card for free by using code FREETHX11 at checkout until 11:59 pm (PST) on 11/16/11.)

Tiny Prints currently has a Talent Search Contest, going on, where you can enter for a chance to win the grand prize of $1,000 cash, plus a $500 Tiny Prints gift certificate... a perfect prize just in time for the Holiday season!

In the Tiny Prints Talent Search Contest, they are looking for the cutest photos in the following categories:
· Cutest Baby (From ages of 0-24 months)
· Cutest Kid (From ages of 25 months - 10 years old)
· Cutest Family
· Cutest Couple
· Cutest Pet & Owner

After the entry period is over, they'll open up the contest to the entire Community to vote for their favorites and determine the winners! Hurry... the entry deadline has been extended to November 21st!

You can enter the Tiny Print Talent Search Contest via Facebook or on their website.

A New Kind of Boxed Wine

2011-11-14T20:45:00.000-08:00

I had dinner with some girlfriends last week, and was in charge of bringing wine. I brought some Black Box wine ... not your average boxed wine! The wine is award winning - and delicious!

All of the girls liked it - we tried the Cabernet Sauvignon. It was very smooth, easy to drink, with a soft finish. Best part? On sale for $18, for the equivalent of 4 bottles. And since we didn't drink it all, it tastes good for up to a month after opening. Perfect when I want only a glass or two of wine!

I learned about Black Box from BzzAgent, and I'm so glad I did. It's nice to have a new, budget-friendly wine around.

53 More Days

2011-11-02T09:52:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true - only 53 more days until Christmas! Now I have to start my list of things to do in 7 1/2 weeks: pick up gifts, make holiday plans, send out cards ... the list goes on! Last year, I mentioned how awesome Shutterfly Christmas cards were ... and I'm back to say it again!

In addition to last year's Christmas cards, in the past few months, we've sent some wedding thank you notes and birthday cards out from Shutterfly, and I was super pleased with the quality. Professional cards at a reasonable price? Yes please!

I'm trying to convince Nick that everyone likes photo cards so we can send out some of amazing wedding photographs as cards this year. :)

Shutterfly has an amazing selection of cards, so many beautiful designs. I tend to like the whimsical, fun styles... here are a few of my favorite cards:

(Those last two cards are less than $1.00 each ... can you say bargain!?)

New this year is the option to add greetings to the back of the card ... can they make it any more easy?!

I'm also considering ordering calendars, too - hello, easy family Christmas gift!

Now, watch your mailbox to see which card I ended up choosing! :)

Style Me Pretty

2011-08-09T12:31:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited ... our wedding is featured on wedding website Style Me Pretty today!

I absolutely love our photos, and our photographer Keri Doolittle ... she's amazing!

Week in the Life

2011-07-25T12:07:00.000-07:00

Once again, I'm participating in Ali Edwards' Week in The Life ... only this time, I'm hoping to actually do something with the pictures I take. ;) I printed Ali's daily sheets, have started to take pictures ... and am trying to document more of the every day. Sure my life isn't super exciting right now - but I try to think how cool would it be to see my grandma's life at 33, or my great grandma the month after she was married.

An inspirational quote found on Amy Tan's blog:
"In this world, somehow an ordinary life has become synonymous with a meaningless life. And so often we are missing what is truly important because we are on the quest for what is extraordinary. Not understanding that in our ordinary lives, in the ordinary moments of our lives, is really where we can find the most joy. " -Brene Brown

This is my life, right now ... off to document it.

Have you ever...

2010-12-16T12:16:00.000-08:00

I saw this on Marti's blog and it reminded me of something Katherine would've liked!

Bold these if you’ve ever…

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 Disney 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

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 (does half marathon count?)

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 (in Vegas!) J

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

48. Gone deep sea fishing

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 (I’m counting this with Campfire mints)

62. Gone whale watching

63. Got 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 a passenger on a 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. Kissed a stranger at midnight on New Year’s Eve

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. Got a tattoo

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

Shutterfly Christmas Cards

2010-11-09T15:11:00.000-08:00

As most of you know, I LOVE sending (and receiving) mail. One of my favorite parts of the holidays? A mailbox full of beautiful cards and pictures!! We recently received our engagement pictures back ... and one thing I'm looking forward to... sending out photo Christmas cards! (It's the little things in life, right?)

I've been checking out the different cards available, and Shutterfly has a TON of cute Christmas card designs - and they're reasonably priced, too. Up until a few months ago, I stuck to Shutterfly for pictures only. I recently tried their cards and have been delighted with the results! Not only did I receive them promptly, but the quality was professional. I also used Shutterfly for printing up our engagement story in a book ... it turned out wonderful - and now we have our story documented.

Back to Christmas cards: they have 748(!!) different designs - something for everybody. Here are a couple of my favorite designs:
This style would be a cute card to send!

Or this one:

Shutterfly even has story cards - a fun alternative to letters on computer paper. This Top Ten style would be fun, a'la Letterman!

So many options for Christmas cards, then we need to pick out Save the Dates... ;)

If you’re a blogger, and interested in 50 free holiday cards from Shutterfly, follow the arrow -> http://bit.ly/sfly2010

wow.

2010-09-10T20:20:00.000-07:00

(seen here)

Good Fortune

2010-08-29T21:13:00.001-07:00

No, this isn't another "I won" post ... but one about an awesome company, Good Fortune.

I first heard about Good Fortune from my friend Steph ... and I'm so glad I did!

They recently sent me some Faucet Soap to try out - wow! I tried the Citronella & Grapefruit scent. It's very refreshing and reminiscent of summer. I feel like I should be camping! But since I don't camp ;) it works well in my shower. The packaging is very cool - it's packaged inside a net bag, which makes the soap exfoliate and easy to use. Plus I hang it on the string after using, which makes it easy to dry. It also came in a waterproof bag to make traveling easy.

I'm the one you want at outdoor functions since the mosquitoes love me! I'll definitely use the Citronella soap next time I'm outside to keep the bugs away.

I'm really impressed with the Good Fortune branding. Their creative and professional brand comes through in both their products and website. That's not it though - they are a green company that also offers products that give back to the community.

I've been so impressed with the faucet soap, I can't wait to check out more Good Fortune products. So many great scents - I think the coconut mineral soak sounds wonderful. It's refreshing (pun intended!) to use products I believe in!

I WON!

2010-08-28T09:49:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd let you know I WON the contest! That's right ... my bridal party and I will be enjoying a day at the spa - I'm so excited! Thank you for voting, it means so much to me.

I've actually been on a winning streak lately - in the past couple weeks, I've won a Mini Dell Netbook, a Flip HD video camera, and a wedding-themed scrapbooking kit. I also bought lottery tickets, but only won $2. :)

I'm so grateful for winning all these contests ... and continue to enter in hopes of winning some more!

I need your help ... please vote!

2010-08-22T19:31:00.000-07:00

I entered a contest on Facebook for a local bridal magazine: telling our engagement story in order to win a spa day for my bridal party. There were only 11 entries, so I think I have a decent chance of winning ... and would LOVE your support!! The contest ends Tuesday.

If you're on Facebook, can you vote here?

Since I know how fun contests are... I will offer $25 cash to one of the people that vote for me (just comment to this post). And if I win, I'll send out two prizes! How's that ... you could get cash, and me & my bridesmaids would get a spa day!

Thanks everyone!
jen

The Story

2010-05-03T20:42:00.000-07:00

Nick and I are down in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico on a weeklong vacation. We both were looking forward to getting away and enjoying some much-needed relaxation time ... I just truly had no idea what a special trip this would be.

Saturday, May 1st was our one year anniversary of meeting and so we made plans to go to dinner somewhere nice. Nick asked if he could plan where we went, so I happily obliged! The day had been overcast, but we still looked forward to celebrating our anniversary even if the views were less than par. We went to Le Kliff, an open-air restaurant overlooking the ocean 30 minutes away. We had a secluded table all by ourselves – it was super romantic. They offered to move us somewhere where we might not get “mist” (i.e. rain) ... but we figured we’d tough it out. It did sprinkle a bit, but I thought it added to the evening. A mariachi band came over and sang a romantic love song to us ... it really was the perfect setting. The sun set right as our main course was served – and it was incredible. A day of clouds and drizzle parted for an amazing orange and red sunset ... we couldn’t ask for anything more.

Below us was a little trail that you could walk along, with scenic views, and I had asked Nick earlier if we could walk down where there were two grass hearts on a stone step. After dinner, he asked if we could go for a walk. I honestly had no idea what was about to happen - we had decided on no anniversary gifts. Although I did put my hand on his chest and his heart was racing ... I figured he might just be nervous about giving an anniversary speech. :)

We were standing under the moon and stars, as the waves crashed below us; after a short speech, he went down on one knee and asked me if I would be his wife. I kept saying “Oh my God” over and over ... but did say YES! The mariachi band and restaurant had been watching us and gave us a loud cheer as we kissed our engagement. As we walked back up to our table, we passed another couple who was on a different part of the trail – we totally stole their thunder ... because they got engaged in the same place as we did just a couple minutes later! Nick also stopped to ask and make sure I did say yes, since neither of us could remember just exactly what we had said.

My ring is BEAUTIFUL ... Nick did quite a bit of research and the ring is absolutely perfect – an oval solitaire in a white gold Tiffany setting. He asked my Mom, Stepdad and Dad for their blessings the week before – they were the only people who knew, other than the ladies at the bank and his barber. :)

After getting back from dinner, we made a few phone calls to friends and family to let them know the big news. And we bought a day’s worth of internet access so we could spread the news electronically on Facebook. We went down to the beach and celebrated with cocktails and a cigar for Nick ... we can’t stop smiling. It truly was a magical night - everything I dreamed of when I was a little girl. I have finally found my Prince Charming!

We’re super excited about our future – lots of decisions to make, but for now we’re just taking in our engaged life and looking forward to what lies ahead. Thank you all for your blessings and good wishes – it truly means the world to us. We’re a little obnoxious right now (calling each other fiancée all the time, constant ring gazing, etc.) so it’s probably good we’re on vacation so no one else has to deal with our lovey-doveyness. ;)

Do you know Alice?

2010-04-03T13:11:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of Alice.com? I read about Alice on a scrapbooking site several months ago, and it's been fabulous so far!

They sell household products - everything from toilet paper to shampoo to trash bags. You know, the stuff you stop at Target to buy and leave with $100 less in your wallet. Shipping is always free AND quick! They even let you know when coupons are available, and I've found the prices comparable to local stores. As a side note, the branding is very impressive - the package is secure, including tape on any bottle and that may open.

If you register via this link, once you spend $50, you'll receive $10 off your order! You don't have to spend $50 at once - it'll be deducted automatically. I just placed another order this morning.

Happy Alice shopping!

Got Coupons?

2010-03-23T09:21:00.000-07:00

I have a confession ... I love couponing. It's a new hobby, but dang is it fun!
Last week, I went to Target, coupons in hand and for $2.22 out of pocket I got:
4 boxes of Frosted Mini-Wheats
1 pack of feminine products
1 bottle of hand soap
All products I use - not bad at all!

Couponing is pretty overwhelming to a newbie - there are tons of sites out there, and since I'm a singleton, I never thought it was for me. (Since I don't need diapers, 12 tubes of toothpaste or 6 gallons of milk!) I'm taking it easy so far, though. I don't buy products I don't need, unless it is something I can donate to charity easily. (In the past, when I participated food drives, I would purchase food just for the cause - now I can donate food I bought for free/cheap!)

My two favorite sites so far are Money Saving Mom and She Saved. I've also found some great deals at Slick Deals (especially around the holidays!)

Let me know if you have any other sites you use, I'd love to bookmark them. Happy (cheap) shopping!

I Believe

2010-03-12T17:45:00.000-08:00

I saw this recently and thought it was a great message.

A Birth Certificate shows that we were born.
A Death Certificate shows that we died.
Pictures show that we lived!
And read this slowly.

I Believe...
That just because two people argue,
It doesn't mean they don't love each other.
And just because they don't argue, it doesn't mean they do love each other.

I Believe...
That we don't have to change friends if
We understand that friends change.

I Believe....
That no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that.

I Believe...
That true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance.
Same goes for true love.

I Believe...
That you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for life.

I Believe....
That it's taking me a long time to become the person I want to be.

I Believe...
That you should always leave loved ones with loving words.
It may be the last time you see them.

I Believe....
That you can keep going long after you think you can't.

I Believe....
That we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel.

I Believe...
That either you control your attitude or it controls you.

I Believe...
That heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs
to be done, regardless of the consequences.

I Believe....
That my best friend and I can do anything or nothing and have the best time.

I Believe....
That sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you're down
will be the ones to help you get back up.

I Believe...
That sometimes when I'm angry
I have the right to be angry,
But that doesn't give me the right to be cruel.

I Believe....
That maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you've had
And what you've learned from them and less to do with how many birthdays
you've celebrated.

I Believe....
That it isn't always enough, to be forgiven by others.
Sometimes, you have to learn to forgive yourself.

I Believe...
That no matter how bad your heart is broken
the world doesn't stop for your grief.

I Believe....
That our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are,
But, we are responsible for who we become.

I Believe...
That you shouldn't be so eager to find
Out a secret. It could change your life Forever.

I Believe....
Two people can look at the exact same
Thing and see something totally different.

I Believe...
That your life can be changed in a matter of
Hours by people who don't even know you.

I Believe...
That even when you think you have no more to give,
When a friend cries out to you - you will find the strength to help.

I Believe...
That credentials on the wall do not make you a decent human being.

I Believe...
That the people you care about most in life are taken from you too soon.

I Believe...
That you should send this to people that you believe in, I just did.

'The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything;
They just make the most of everything they have

Cleaning out my Stash

2010-03-08T14:27:00.001-08:00

Local ladies ... are you looking for some discounted crafty goodness? Several of my friends are on design teams (and get lots of extra product!) and we're having a scrapbooking garage sale on Saturday, March 20. There are over ten of us participating, so you're guaranteed to get a wide variety with a bunch of great stuff.

My word this year is simplify - so I'm working on organizing, purging and using my stash! And since the sale isn't held at a LSS, I'll actually get cash and not just store credit (to buy more!!)

Wish me luck with sorting and pricing ... :)

Pen Pal, anyone?

2010-03-04T09:50:00.000-08:00

Did you used to have a pen pal? Wish you still did? (Anyone else remember which teen magazine had the pen pal sign up in the back??)

Reform School is launching an international Pen Pal program and I'm pretty excited to sign up! If you're local to LA, they're even having a 'club' meeting to discuss the program ... if not, no big deal, we'll get our pen pal matches after the meeting on March 15. To sign up, just send an email with the basics: name, address, hobbies, etc.

Yay for more fun mail!

Good Grief: Use the Alphabet

2010-03-02T14:09:00.001-08:00

A new challenge was posted at Good Grief: to use the alphabet in my layouts.

I took a different alphabet interpretation to both my layouts. I decided to use the alphabet as a springboard, and tell the story of how Kath changed her last name several years ago.

A True Family Name
Journaling: Kath & Grandma went to Sweden in June 1999… the trip changed their lives. After she returned home, Kath decided she needed to honor her Swedish heritage, and her Grandpa. She went from a Waters to a Johanson.

I have always called my Grandma, “Grandma Em”, so this was an easy letter to pick! I wanted to document the story of how she became Grandma Em (despite not being an Emily!), so it worked well for this challenge. This was inspired by a Studio Calico class I took at CKC.

Grandma M
Journaling: Before she was a Mom & Grandma, she earned a degree from UW and worked at a dairy. Story goes that she wore an extra jumpsuit, embroidered with “Em.” She was never Grandma Marion or Finnegan, always Grandma M. And I’m proud I made her a Grandma.

Thanks for looking!

Lovely Package Exchange

2010-03-01T17:01:00.001-08:00

lovely package exchange:
Originally uploaded by ohhellofriend

Do you like getting fun mail? I just signed up for the Lovely Package Exchange over on Oh Hello Friend. What is it? A chance to get a crafty mail partner, send them a gift worth $25-30 (with pretty wrapping!) and receive something fun and pretty in the mail. Signups end on 3/9, with gifts sent during the month of March.

You can see more of the past packages on the Flickr site. Yay for adding a bit of cheer to mailboxes across the world!

Back at It

2010-02-22T16:00:00.000-08:00

We've lucked out with the weather the past couple days. The sun's out, and although it's not extremely warm, the dose of Vitamin D seems to put everyone in a good mood. Nick and I spent the afternoon at Green Lake yesterday ... it was beautiful!

It was so nice to be outside, soak up the sun, and get some exercise in. I have some upcoming events I'm now planning for: Puerto Vallarta with Nick in a couple months for our anniversary and The 3 Day in less than 7 months! Anticipating both the beach and walking 60 miles, I'm trying to get my weight and fitness level under control. I know what works: eating better and moving more. It's no secret!

So far, so good. Nick and I walked over 4+ miles yesterday at Green Lake (along with every other Seattleite!) This morning I was up at 4:30 am and headed to the gym ... a great start to the week. :) I also bought new shoes yesterday so I'm ready to walk... my official training walks will be starting soon. I'll keep you posted on how it's going!

Good Grief: Scrap without Photos

2010-02-22T10:27:00.001-08:00

The current challenge was posted last week at Good Grief. This was challenge #13 ... hard to believe we've been at this for 6 months already! This challenge was to scrap without photos. I managed to finish both layouts at a retreat a couple weeks ago with some girlfriends ... it's so nice to get some quality crafty time in.

Auntie Bugs

I've been wanting to tell this story for awhile ... this was the perfect opportunity!

Journaling: The story: When I was a toddler, Kath babysat me … I was crying. To try and make me stop, she shrieked about a spider. The giggles started and we went searching for buggies. And she’s been my Auntie Bugs ever since.

Raisin Love

This was just another story I wanted to document and remember.

Journaling: Every week, Grandma would pick me up from Jo Anne’s house on Fridays. Waiting for me in the car was a snack … always raisin, sittin on the dash. I see raisins now and smile, thinking of her.

You can see more here.

Circle Journals

2010-02-09T10:07:00.001-08:00

Last Fall, I signed up to participate in a circle journal over at SIS. For you non-scrappers, a CJ is where you create a mini-album with a topic, send it throughout a group of people to complete a layout and pass it on. By the time it comes back to you (full circle), the book is complete!

The theme of my book was Favorite Cause- I wanted to know which charities are most important to everyone. So far I've received 3 different circle journals for this group.

And here are the layouts I've completed so far:

A Christmas Tradition
The theme of this one was Favorite Recipe. Journaling: This casserole is a Christmas morning tradition. So good to enjoy once a year. After presents, enjoy with some orange juice, before a holiday nap. Delicious!

So Many Quirks So Little Time
This book's theme is to document our quirks. As you can see, I have too many to pick one! :) Journaling: I admit it ... I'm pretty quirky! Whether it's out of habit or reason, I definitely have my fair share of quirks. Trouble is identifying something that's not an idiosyncrasy! Here are just a couple of my quirks: I always clean my home in the same order, I make my bed every morning, I go to Starbucks almost every day, I look at my bank accounts daily. (and the list goes on!)

Grey
And this CJ was about our favorite color. Journaling should be clear, but just in case: My favorite color right now is grey. I like wearing it, scrapping it, decorating with it ... it's my go to color right now. Love it!

It's kind of a fun project - taking on various challenges & subjects, and in the end you have a full album from a variety of scrappers!

In2Books

2010-02-04T09:32:00.000-08:00

Earlier this week, I signed up to be an In2Books pen pal!

I'm looking forward to it: I'll be paired up with student (grade 3-5), we'll read the same book, and then write letters about the book. Reading and letters? I'm in! I'll let you know how it goes after we start reading.

Good Grief: Word Association

2010-02-01T10:07:00.000-08:00

A new challenge was posted today at Good Grief! This challenge was to use word association - it's fun to see the different takes on the challenge.

My layouts and explanations:

This picture isn’t the best of Katherine, but it was a wonderful moment I wanted to capture. Exactly one year ago, I was on a cruise with Katherine (and some of my family). We were all aware that this would be her last vacation, but tried to enjoy each moment. This picture was on the bus from the airport to the cruise terminal – Katherine was singing, laughing and clapping while talking to a smile child sitting nearby. This was exactly how she was all the time – always connecting with everyone around us. :)

Joy

Journaling: Daughter, sister, aunt, partner ... but she was so much more. Funny, loving, giving, focused, generous, forgiving, story-telling, present. But the word that best describes her: joy.

This next layout didn't start the way I had planned, but when I saw this patterned paper, I thought it would be perfect for word association. I made a list of words I thought described my Grandma, and started adding the words to the different shapes. Once it was finished, I realized one important word missing: “missed” so added it to a pop-dotted label to the picture.

She Is...

Journaling: She is... faithful, organized, gentle, sensitive, patient, unselfish, poised, devoted, efficient, endearing, grandmother, hospitable, honest, loyal, helpful, fair, loved, caring, independent, nice, tender, beautiful, sweet, practical, trusting, loving, smart, genuine, mom, dedicated, missed.

Thanks for looking!

Catching Up

2010-01-25T10:14:00.000-08:00

After the craziness of the holidays (and a broken pipe - what a mess!) I'm finally able to catch up on my to do list! I have a couple of Good Grief challenges that I'm just getting around to posting:

Resolve to Make a Tradition
Jubilee

Journaling: For Katherine’s birthday, I needed to find a way to honor her … to turn our grief to celebration. I planned a group dinner at Jubilee Women’s Center – nearly a dozen friends & family showed. After a quick speech, we ate our spaghetti dinner and talked to the residents. This cause was perfect … and I know she was there with us.

I resolve

Journaling: To take more pictures just because, to document the little moments, to capture candid shots, and to not worry what others think. I wish I had more pictures of Grandma, but I cherish these ones.

You can also see the layouts here.

Capture a Favorite Place
Right Here

Journaling: My favorite place was anywhere, as long as we were all together. I love our family gatherings, and I know you did too. We'd laugh, cry, play games and tell stories. Some of my best memories were during these occasions. And its not the same without you.

Journaling: You loved being on Maui, with all of us there. We went twice as an entire family. So much fun from synchronized swimming to the daily 5:00 conch shell, it was nice for us to all be together. This picture at Bubba Gumps in Lahaina cracks me up I still smile looking at you in Forrest Gumps shoes. :) I miss those happy times.

I have one and a half of my two layouts done for the next challenge (will be posted on the 1st). It's really nice to be caught up ... I need to do these layouts, not only for my commitment to Good Grief, but it's quite healing and therapeutic for me.

Well worth 2 minutes and 33 seconds

2009-12-16T16:31:00.000-08:00

I saw this video last year, and just watched it again - such a timely reminder:

No matter what your beliefs, I'm sure you can agree the message is quite powerful.

I was reminded again today at how short our lives truly are. This morning, I learned that a guy I knew from Toastmasters, Justin Key, passed away Monday from complications related to H1N1. He was 26 years old: funny, healthy, charming. Although I wouldn't necessarily classify him as a friend, I realized today how much he touched my life. Hearing of his adventures traveling, salsa dancing, and living life - he was the type of charismatic person who impacted all around him. My friend Jon mentioned Justin was the one that you just knew was going places - one day we'd call him President Key, Ambassador Key or Senator Key. Sadly that day won't come: his life here was too short - but he certainly lived his life to the fullest.

Rest in Peace, Justin.
(picture taken from Justin's Memorial Facebook page)

Good Grief: Preserve Handwriting

2009-12-01T20:59:00.001-08:00

Yes, it's time for a new challenge at Good Grief! This challenge was an easier one for me: to document and preserve handwriting.

Without further ado:
{1 of a Kind}
Journaling: Kath’s handwriting is truly one of a kind. Beyond her fun scrawl, the words she wrote were filled from her heart. Envelopes were filled with doodles – a bright ray of sunshine in a stack of bills. Her last card is my favorite, though. Hardly legible, it took several tries … but it says it all: “I love you Jenny”.

Lovingly
Journaling: These are it – the last bits of her handwriting on cards I received before she passed away. I love seeing her even script – it brings back so many memories. The best touch? Her closing: always ‘Lovingly’. (Hidden on tag): When she was admitted to Overlake back in 2000, one of the first things I did was look for cards from her. I sat on my closet floor, crying, just wanting to see her handwriting, hoping the cards wouldn’t end.

Over the next couple days, you will see a closer look at the layouts, as well as learn the story behind each one. Please let me know if you join us in this challenge!

Good Grief: Favorite Foods

2009-11-15T14:21:00.001-08:00

It's that time again at Good Grief! This challenge was to "list her favorite foods". I chose to take a different twist on this challenge, and focus on a couple of favorite food-related memories.

Most Favorite Cake Ever

Journaling: This was a birthday I will never forget. For the first time in days, Kath was able to leave the house. We went to Dad & Peg’s for a tiny celebration. She wanted to get me a cake with bugs – and that’s what I had! She endured pain to join the party – I felt the love. Having her was my greatest gift.

Family Tradition

Journaling: Several years ago, Grandma started making her soup on Christmas Eve. We never needed an entire, huge meal … and all the grandkids were too excited to eat (since presents were after.) Split pea soup became our tradition. Grandma kept notes of just how much we needed, year after year, so we always had just enough. Grandma’s Split Pea Soup – a favorite family tradition.

As a reminder, a closer look at my layouts, along with the stories behind them, will be posted in a couple of days over at Good Grief.

Send Love Today

2009-11-14T08:14:00.000-08:00

This morning I saw a post on Write.Click.Scrapbook that immediately caught my eye.

Send Love Today is "an organization whose goal is to create hope and happiness for people suffering with any type of brain cancer and their families. Volunteers sign up to do one of two things: 1) send out a certain number of cards per week to an assigned patient (aka: friend) or 2) make cards at their leisure which they send to Send Love Today who distributes them to friends as needed."

This is a charity I can certainly support! A couple years ago, I posted a request on scrapbooking message board Two Peas in a Bucket to send cards to Katherine to brighten her days. I was overwhelmed with many cards; here are just a few:

And the response was just what I was hoping for:

In 2009, one of my resolutions was to send more cards, especially one "just because." {You may have been a lucky recipient! :)} I thought this charity is perfect - I can spread joy AND send more cards!! I just signed up and I'm looking forward to sending cards to someone in need of some cheer.

As a side note, over the past two years, I have tried to volunteer with a different organization each month. (2009 was a bit more sporadic, hoping I get back in 2010!) If you know of any charities looking for help, please let me know. I'm always interested in helping a new organization, and learning about different charities.

So many challenges...

2009-11-09T17:06:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I didn't have anything major planned, so ended up participating in a few online scrap challenges. I had a blast - it's good to push outside my comfort zone every now and then!

We had an online crop over at Good Grief yesterday. I posted three challenges: an advice challenge, a cardstock & story challenge, and a re-challenge challenge. The last two are layout challenges, so I'll pick random winners next Sunday (which will hopefully give me time to complete the challenges myself!) I was able to do 2 layouts for other challenges though.

This challenge was to document a trip taken with a lost loved one - I scrapped a picture of Kath & I from the cruise I went on with my family in February:

Journaling reads: I want to remember this moment forever. The cruise was so perfect: laughing, smiling, making memories and trying to forget about cancer. The timing couldn't have been better - we celebrated life before we would lose Katherine a mere 4 months later. I cherish these memories.

This challenge was to use only chipboard & cardstock ... it was HARD! That's what challenges are for, right? I was inspired by Tania Willis with the tone-on-tone cardstock.

Journaling: This is my family... with marriage, divorce, non-blood relations, untraditional relationships ... but lots of love.

I also completed 3 layouts for another group of challenges - this was just a group of scrappers emailing each other different challenges.

The first challenge was to only use scraps and products within reach. This is Andrea and me at a local scrap retreat.

Journaling reads: So much fun hanging with this girl. She inspires me, makes me laugh, _and_ knows the importance of self-portraits!

Next was to use a fun color combo ... I'm loving gray & orange right now! Earlier this year I went to a trivia fundraiser with a few friends in Seattle - this picture was from that night.

The last one I did was to use white as a background ... another tough one! When I was in CA last year, Christina and I went to Sprinkles ... YUM!

Thanks for looking ... hoping I get the chance to do some more challenges this week!

Good Grief: Document a Game

2009-11-07T05:51:00.000-08:00

It's time for a new challenge at Good Grief! This challenge was a bit light-hearted, a nice change from the tear-invoking layouts! We were to document a game we had played.

First up, my layout for Katherine:

She Likes...

Journaling: (on envelope) She likes: puppies but not dogs, books but not magazines, giggles but not smiles, jogging but not walking, butterflies but not ladybugs, Halloween but not Christmas...

(on tag, in envelope) Kath introduced us to this fun game without telling us how to play. We just had to listen & guess what was next. If we were correct, we played along until everyone ‘got it.’ The game would start randomly, as someone else thought of more things that ‘she liked’...

Can you figure out the game??

And my layout for my Grandma:

Wheel of Fortune
Journaling: A favorite memory I have is watching Wheel of Fortune with Grandma. We’d try to guess the puzzles, as Grandpa sat in his chair, reading with his pipe. Not quite sure why this memory sticks out, but it’s one I’ll cherish from my childhood, especially now that she’s gone.

I apologize for the lack of picture quality - I recently got a new laptop, and my Photoshop Elements isn't cooperating. I had to be creative for photo editing (I used Picnik) but it looks like I sized the layouts too small!

Please link me to your layouts if you play along - I love to see how everyone interprets the different challenges!

Making Memories

2009-10-16T09:53:00.000-07:00

Scrapbooking manufacturer Making Memories recently requested stories from those impacted by breast cancer, in honor of October being breast cancer awareness month.

I'm honored that my story is posted today!

I like to tell my friends and family "we're making memories" and I'm touched that Making Memories allowed me to share my story.

On a related note, my sweet friend Andrea Ancich recently used Making Memories' slice and Think Pink slice card to create a layout of us at the 2008 3 Day, as well as some cards for her design contribution at Lasting Memories. Aren't they beautiful?

Good Grief: Have a Conversation

2009-10-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

It's that time again ... a new challenge is up at Good Grief! This challenge was a bit difficult for me - we documented what a conversation with our loved one would be like. I just jotted down some thoughts of what I would say if I were to talk to either Kath or my Grandma.

WWKD

Journaling reads: Note to Self: I wonder all the time what Kath would do. I’m more understanding & sympathetic… I give money to the homeless, I’m present. She continues to make me a better person. I miss her so much.

Heaven

Journaling: A few questions: What is it like? Beautiful & light? Have you seen your relatives & friends who have passed? Did you give Michael a hug for me? Are there just spirits, or does everyone look like they do on Earth? Do you realize how often I think of you? I see a butterfly float by and smile … almost like you’re checking in with me. I hope heaven is as magical as I imagine it to be … and you’ll be waiting.

Thanks for looking!

Scrapbooking Extravaganza!!!

2009-10-13T21:18:00.000-07:00

I was out of town this weekend at a camp out on the peninsula, for a weekend of scrapping, laughing, snacking, and hanging out with some of my fave girls! Friday was a *crazy* day at work (meetings from 7:30-4:30, straight!) so right after work I headed out. It was fabulous to spend the weekend with the craftiest girls I know - it's always too long between our visits. :)

We did something different this time around, and completed 3 Round Robin challenges. The short of it: you start with your own picture and background paper, and every 5 minutes, you pass it on to the next person to embellish the layout. After 10-12 people work on the layout, it comes back to you! I love these challenges... so much fun to see how everyone interprets your picture, tries new techniques, and how the layouts change since you worked on them. I LOVE how my layouts turned out (although I can't take credit - since I all did was pick out the background paper and the pictures!):

I also worked on my layouts for the next Good Grief challenge, some cards, layouts made from page kits, as well as a couple layouts just because. (The Good Grief layouts will be posted on the 15th.) Here are a couple of the other layouts I did:

And here are my ATCs for the favorite drink ATC swap at Scrap in Style:

Such a fun weekend ... we already have started planning our next one - and I can't wait!

Forever a student

2009-10-09T07:10:00.000-07:00

I always have enjoyed learning, and even now that I'm done with my education, I still like to learn. I've taken a couple online crafty classes recently ... fun because I end up with a beautiful project AND I don't have to think at all! :)

Last month I took Shimelle's Learn Something New Every Day class, and although I haven't made the mini book yet, I did journal something I learned each day throughout the September. I'll get to the mini eventually!

Right now I'm taking a class by Christina Clouse called Bits and Pieces. I love Christina's style, so quickly registered when she listed the class for sale. The album is cute so far (just have the foundation of the album done!) I bought the kit that corresponds with the class so it's super simple to follow along and do exactly what she does! Sure, we have creative flexibility to 'make it ours' ... I just like to follow directions and not have to think too much. If it worked for her, why mess with it?! :P I'll show the mini book once I'm done ... also, it's not too late to join if you're interested.

Good Grief: Ask A Child

2009-10-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

Time for another challenge at Good Grief! This challenge was to ask a child about your loved one. Since I don't have any children in my life that I could talk to about my aunt or Grandma, I thought I'd journal to myself as a child. My layouts for this challenge:

Did You Know?
Journaling (on tag): Did you know? She would change your life more than you could ever imagine? She was more than an aunt, but an inspiration? You would later cherish these times, wondering what you two were thinking? You would wish you could spend just one more day with her?

Remember
This layout didn't include anywhere I could put journaling. So I'm going to be including the story of this picture on the back of the layout: This picture of my Grandma and me represents a day where one of my very first memories happened. We were taking a ferry to visit my granparents' good friends, the Becks. I remember sitting on Isabelle Beck’s countertop as she painted my toenails ... and years later, I still referred to her as the lady who painted my toenails. At only 27 months old, I don’t remember many details of the day, or the ferry ride, but I love this picture, knowing that one of my first memories at that time was later documented.

Thanks for looking - and be sure to link up your layouts if you play along. I'd love to see them!

Good Grief: Favorite Photo

2009-09-30T09:32:00.000-07:00

I was late in posting my layouts for the last challenge at Good Grief. I skipped a week - and actually did the challenge that was to launch on 10/1 instead of the 9/15 one. So I'm just catching up! This challenge was to use a favorite photo. Here are my layouts for this challenge.

George
Journaling: Just looking at this picture cracks me up! Kath was always so funny. I remember laughing until I could hardly breathe as a child - she's always been hilarious. Here she is, impersonating George Washington at her birthday talent show. We laughed so hard cherishing these fun memories together.

I want to be loved like that
Journaling: I love this picture of Grandma & Grandpa a little kiss, caught on film. Married for 57 years, he still called her Princess. He worked hard out of the home, and she worked raising 3 daughters. Im sure it wasnt always perfect, but their love withstood the hard times, and the love showed with nicknames and little kisses after nearly 60 years.

You can click on the layouts to see them better, or read 'my story' behind the layouts on the site.

Thanks for looking!

Good Grief: Spill It

2009-09-01T22:16:00.000-07:00

It's time for another challenge at Good Grief!

This challenge was to Spill It ... just write what you feel. I again did two layouts. I'm really enjoying these challenges; I hope you are too!

My layouts will be shown in greater detail later this week, but I thought I'd post them here with the journaling.

This Moment

Journaling: I will never, ever forget this moment. I had walked 60 miles, and was exhausted, mentally and physically. I wasn’t sure she’d be there. It was hot, she was in the middle of radiation treatment and was two days away from her mastectomy. I would understand of course. But then I saw her, my motivation and inspiration, & the tears flowed. The emotions were raw. She was there to celebrate me, as I honored her. We took this picture, both of us in pain but celebrating the moment. I will continue to fight for her until I’m no longer able. And I know she’ll be there, cheering me on.

The Place to Go
Journaling:
I love having a place to go, a place to talk to you. Some times I just need to talk to you … I stopped by to tell you about my life – what was good, what scared me. I told you I met someone, and I was falling in love. I still hear your voice, calling me Jenny. I go here to remember you, to recall the memories we’ve shared. Wearing your apron, taking ‘orders’ for dinner – watching Wheel of Fortune – eating raisins out of the box. I miss you, and I hope you know how much I love you. You brought our family together. I find an old card, signed ‘Lovingly, Grandma’ and I ache for you. I knew I would lose you eventually – but I still wasn’t ready. I wished you were at my wedding & would be a great grandma. I see a butterfly float by, and it’s you, giving me a sign. Just when I needed it. Just like you used to do. I love you, Grandma. Lovingly, Jenny

I'll be honest, quite a few tears fell while I worked on these layouts. It was a comforting, therapeutic cry, though... just writing from the heart.

Good Grief

2009-08-15T10:41:00.000-07:00

I'm honored to be part of a new scrapbooking challenge blog, Good Grief. The purpose is to document the losses we’ve experienced, cherish memories, and honor our loved ones we've lost.

We’ll be posting our layouts twice a month (on the 1st and 15th), based on different challenges. The first challenge is to ‘use song lyrics’. Over the next couple days you’ll get a closer look at our layouts and a chance to dig deeper to our stories.

I hope you can stop by, take a look, and join us - already, one challenge in, I've found this to be quite therapeutic in my healing process.

My layouts (click to to get a closer look):

29 Day Giving Challenge

2009-08-13T15:31:00.000-07:00

I saw this quote today and it spoke to me - so I posted it on my Facebook earlier:

"That best portion of a good man's life; His little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and of love." --William Wordsworth

Seeing this reminded me, it was time to take another 29 Day Giving Challenge. I've tried it a couple other times, and while I don't think I've done the full 29 days yet, it's always been a rewarding experience. After all - don't we get more out of giving than receiving?

You never know whose life you're going to touch ... or who is going to touch you!

45 Questions

2009-08-12T17:51:00.000-07:00

I was cleaning out my starred items on Google Reader and found a cute quiz on the Splendid Miss M's blog. Since I rarely blog (I know, I need to work on that) figured this would be good enough.

1. What kind of SOAP is in your bathtub right now? Victoria's Secret body wash (hate bar soap!)

2. Do you have any watermelon in your refrigerator? Nope

3. What would you change about your living room? Make it bigger? Honestly, this is the room I spend the most time in, and I don't mind it too much!

4. Are the dishes in your dishwasher clean or dirty? Dirty

5. What is in your fridge? Beer, Wine, Condiments, Pellegrino, maybe some old milk. I don't cook at home much (and don't like leftovers!)

6. White or wheat bread? Wheat

7. What is on top of your refrigerator? A couple vases that didn't fit in the cabinet

8. What color or design is on your shower curtain? Green and blue plaid in my guest bathroom, glass door in the master

9. How many plants are in your home? Seven. Not all of them are alive right now though.

10. Is your bed made right now? Yes - I have to have it made!

11. Comet or Soft Scrub? I'm going to go with Comet. Don't use it often though. Prefer my spray cleaner.

12. Is your closet organized? Yes, but it's full. I need to do some purging. And let's not talk about my guest closet.

13. Can you describe your flashlight? A yellow one with my name on the bottom from when I lived at ZTA.

14. Do you drink out of glass or plastic most of the time at home? Glass.

15. Do you have iced tea made in a pitcher right now? No.

16. If you have a garage, is it cluttered? No garage.

17. Curtains or blinds? Blinds in every room - I still need to take Mom up on her offer to make me living room curtains though!

18. How many pillows do you sleep with? Four. There are two more, but I throw them off before I get in to bed.

19. Do you sleep with any lights on at night? No, although I fall asleep with the TV on.

20. How often do you vacuum? Not nearly as often as I should!

21. Standard toothbrush or electric? Electric!

22. What color is your toothbrush? Cream.

23. Do you have a welcome mat on your front porch? Yes, it even says Welcome!

24. What is in your oven right now? Nothing.

25. Is there anything under your bed? All of my holiday decorations (none of which I use besides Halloween and Christmas) and my ski stuff.

26. Chore you hate doing the most? Putting away laundry.

27. What retro items are in your home? My Grandma's stand mixer (yes, even though I've never used it).

28. Do you have a separate room that you use as an office? Yes, my second bedroom. Supposedly my scrap room ... in reality, my crap room.

29. How many mirrors are in your home? Four - one in each bedroom and one in each bath.

30. Do you have any hidden emergency money around your home? No. Or if I do, I don't remember where I put it.

31. What color are your walls? Mostly the boring cream color my condo came with. One wall is painted a wine color, and another is a light tan.

32. Do you keep any kind of protection weapons in your home? Kitchen knives?

33. What does your home smell like right now? Plug-ins - I have a couple around my home.

34. Favorite candle scent? I like Cucumber Melon - generally like fruity scents best.

35. What kind of pickles (if any) are in your refrigerator right now? I think there are a few jars in there ... no idea how long they've been there. Probably since I moved in 6 years ago. I'll say dill though.

36. What color is your favorite Bible? I have one bible, sure it can be my favorite, it's black.

37. Ever been on your roof? Nope, and I don't want to!

38. Do you own a stereo? Yes, just one.

39. How many TVs do you have? Two - one in my bedroom and one in the living room.

40. How many house phones? Three - each bedroom and the kitchen. No one ever calls on it other than telemarketers though!

41. Do you have a housekeeper? She's typing this.

42. What style do you decorate in? I don't think I really have a 'style' - maybe simplistic/homey?

43. Do you like solid colors in furniture or prints? Mostly solids.

44. Is there a smoke detector in your home? Yes, and a couple CO2 detectors, as well.

45. In case of fire, what are the items in your house which you'd grab if you only could make one quick trip? My laptop, my purse, some scrapbooks

For Today

2009-06-24T09:05:00.000-07:00

Ali Edwards recently posted a fun little 'survey' that I thought I could do ... you know, to be ambitious and make this my 2nd post for 2009!

FOR TODAY
June 24, 2009

Outside my window... the sun is shining - I'm SO glad it's back!

I am thinking... of everything I need to do tonight (laundry, packing, print pictures, etc.) before going in to work early tomorrow.

I am thankful for... little reminders of Katherine I experience - yesterday I gave a homeless man $5 since it's totally something she would've done. I constantly ask myself 'What would Katherine do...' and end up with a smile.

From the kitchen... of Starbucks :) I'm eating a yogurt parfait and Iced Caramel Macchiato - yum!

I am wearing... jeans, light brown v-neck and blue tank.

I am creating... a yearbook album for all my SISters to sign this weekend. It's nothing fancy, I can always embellish later, right??

I am going... to Tennessee TOMORROW! I'm headed to SISiversary and can't wait to meet new friends, hang out with old friends, laugh, take pictures, make memories and scrap! I have some KICK ASS roomies (Andrea, Pam, Tracy, Aimee, Erin & Steph - yes, there will be 7 of us!) that I can't wait to hang with.

I am reading... The Darling by Russell Banks (on tape during my drives) and The Idiot Girl and the Flaming Tantrum of Death by Laurie Notaro - Laurie Notaro is hilarious!!!

I am hoping... I can limit what I bring to still be productive and not ridiculously overpacked. I'm a notorious overpacker - argh.

I am hearing... Pandora - I have a Sugarland station that rocks!

Around the house... I have suitcases out ready to be packed (and it's not even 3am the day I leave, so unusual!) and tons of scrap stuff ready to be organized and packed.

One of my favorite things... emails and texts saying 'I'm thinking of you...' :)

A few plans for the rest of the week... go to Old Navy during lunch for some more tanks (it's going to be in the 90s (!!) in TN), stop at Lasting Memories on my way home tonight to pick up a Tiny Fastener, work tomorrow until 1ish, then off to Nashville!

See, that wasn't too difficult, was it?? I actually made some Mini Moos for SISiversary and included my blog address on them ... which means I really should post more! :)

Testing, Testing... 123... Testing

2009-06-02T21:55:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd test to see if my password still works around here and pop in. :) My friend Andrea reminded me recently of the power of journaling - whether via blog, in "official" journals, or just a piece of paper, it's so therapeutic to get your thoughts down. So many times I've started journaling, but haven't consistently journaled through the years. Maybe that's why I struggle with journaling beyond just the facts in my layouts? Aw well, one step at a time... :)

Nothing too glamorous to report now, life is busy, as always! It's just the way we balance* all those tasks and priorities as to how they fall, right??

I recently ordered a letterpress print with a quote by Stephen Covey:

the main thing
is to keep
the main thing
the main thing

So true, no? So often I get worked up on the 'extras' - what I anticipate will happen, the emotion, the fluff... and I'm distracted on not what the REAL issue is. I'm considering using this quote for the ATC Quote Swap at SIS. I love checking out everyone's favorite quotes - it's interesting to see what each person chooses not only as their quote, but decorative-style, too.

*appropriate use of my 2009 word!

One Little Word

2008-12-31T10:24:00.000-08:00

For the past two years, I have chosen One Little Word to concentrate my efforts for the year. 2007's word was BELIEVE and 2008 was FOCUS. Whereas I can continue to use both words as areas of focus (no pun intended), I decided to choose a new word for 2009. Here it is, with some of the definitions that stuck out to me.

bal⋅ance /ˈbæləns/
a state of equilibrium or equipoise; an adjustment of accounts; the power or means to decide.

"Work, love and play are the great balance wheels of man's being.” - Orison Swett Marden

I'm looking forward to seeking balance in 2009- with my job, my home, my life, on the scale (LOL). When I think of walking on a balance beam, you can't rush through, or you'll fall. I'll try to slow down and focus as I strive towards balance.

I encourage you to pick a word in the new year!

29 Days of Giving

2008-12-03T10:11:00.000-08:00

Back in October, I signed up to do a 29 Days of Giving Challenge. Although I did more than what I posted on my 29 Days site, I never officially did 29 days in a row. This morning, I was reminded again of the challenge - and thought I'd try again! I realized this will put me through the end of December ~ what a great way to spend the holiday season!

I encourage you to sign up - isn't giving what it's all about?

"Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does." -William James

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2008-11-21T10:31:00.000-08:00

I saw this survey on Gretchen's blog and thought it was fun! I'm definitely in the Christmas spirit already!!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? I love wrapping – it’s my favorite part!
2. Real tree or Artificial? Artificial ... don’t have to water it!
3. When do you put up the tree? Normally first part of December – this year it’ll be on Monday November 24th.
4. When do you take the tree down? After New Year’s.
5. Do you like eggnog? Yes – but not straight, either mixed with 7-Up or cut with nonfat in a latte.
6. Favorite gift received as a child? My dollhouse – mom-made!
7. Hardest person to buy for? My dad
8. Easiest person to buy for? Talia & Toby ... yay for cute kid clothes! :)
9. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes, just got a Willow Tree one a couple years ago.
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Definitely mail.
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Luckily nothing stands out. Maybe something I can't return?? ;) I try to appreciate everything though.
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Normally not until December – but I’ve done quite a bit this year already.
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Not that I recall...
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Sausage Casserole – yum!
16. Lights on the tree? Yes – colorful (they all have to match too ... no half blinking, different sized, etc.)
17. Favorite Christmas song? Can I pick 3? Let it Snow, Santa Baby, or Christmas in the Northwest
18. Travel at Christmas or stay at home? Travel – just locally though
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? I think so: Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and Rudolph
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Angel
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Both! (It used to be morning though.)
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? Pressure to be in 300 places at one time.
23. What theme or color are you using? For what - my tree? I like to have a bunch of different ornaments - they bring back great memories.
24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? Christmas dinner doesn't stand out to me - I'll say mashed potatoes and gravy.
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? I love homemade with love gifts! Honestly, I don't want much.

A Change We Can Believe In

2008-11-05T17:10:00.000-08:00

It's been 21 hours after the election results were announced, and I'm still giddy! I cried, laughed and applauded last night as I watched the results come in. I'm SO excited for the direction our country is headed. I now hope and pray that we can unite as one country to realize the change we all agree our country needs.

Yes we can ... and here's an article with incredible insight.

As a side note, I updated my Volunteer Blog. I know it's been a fairly sparse activity this year - and I do plan on updating on our past activities with pictures and details. I'm really looking forward to the couple volunteer opportunities that November will bring!

Ba-Rock the Vote!

2008-11-03T20:25:00.000-08:00

I'm SO excited for tomorrow ... election day has been a long time coming! I can hardly believe in less than 48 hours we'll know which way the country is headed. Assuming we have no recounts and hanging chads, of course. :)

I've made my vote and even if you don't the same way I do ... please vote. It's your right - and an honor! Otherwise you have no right to complain. :)

Heck, you can even get free coffee just for doing so.

Peer Pressure

2008-10-29T20:43:00.000-07:00

So I finally gave in to the peer pressure ... Rian was giving me a bad time ~ if SHE could blog, I could too. ;) And I figured once the parents started blogging, I really needed to as well.

So we'll see how this goes... wish me luck!