been gone so long...

who knew that beginning a new adventure in my life would be so crazy~~
I started taking photos of friends and strangers to bring some income into our home. I knew it was the time to do it.. but now to make even tougher decisions...

I have to really think what is important to me..
to my family.. .
what is necessary and what is simply a want.

I finally scrapped this week but have not yet hooked up my computer to my scanner.. bummer. I have to get that done soon!!!
Christmas cards are being designed- even the envelopes have a stamp and extra inking on them- I think it makes it look just.. well, better!
What about you?? Do you put a little something extra on the envelope? It just takes a second of time.... it's like putting a bow on a package!

Scarecrow time!!

straw bales $50
costumes: $40
3 adorable children: priceless

photos coming soon!

so in the meantime.. here is a card with a scarecrow- I love this stamp!!!
some of the materials are from The Shaker Box Oct Kit

EEK!

I've almost missed my new niece's first Halloween!
Things have been crazy around here!!!
Yes, Sandra.. I have been a bit busy! ha! miss you man- think the donkey can get the postman to zip back and forth between Texas and Ct again? hahahahaha

anyway, I have lost part of my scrappy room to my dh. Yes... he needs the space so he will take it over.. I had to move my desk.. or rather he moved it back across a room and got a corner desk.. I love that desk. We got the other pieces from a friend of ours and just now found the corner piece on sale. I hope he doesn't live in the land of piles like he does everywhere else.. it stifles my creativity to have piles around me..
clutter around me clutters my brain. Is it like that for you?? I take his piles and move them.. .I know a dangerous thing for some but at least I don't throw things away like I used to.. well.. not that he notices! ha!
it's late and I have to get to bed!
I already have my LOs ready for the kid's photos on Wednesday!!! I am so excited about Halloween! I miss the cool weather but I must admit it will make it easier at night!!!
Happy Halloween a bit early!! EEK!

Paintable Papers!!

I am in love with the paintable papers that Michele placed in the Shaker Box kit this month!!!
yep, I colored, cut, xactoed.. is that a word?.. and shimmered this paper to death.. I love it and would love to get some more!!!
I took this photo of my Queen V last spring... everything was so pretty!!

My photography is taking off more.. yep, I have entered the portfolio building stage where I learn and the people I am photographing know I am learning... so it all works out for the better :) gotta love that! A win-win situation..


*seems I will have to wait till later to add the photo of the LO... blogger is having hotflashes..**

A little birdie told me..

a little birdie told me I was going to have a class at The Shaker Box on how to make this cute birdhouse.. wouldn't it be cute on a tree in December???

anticipation of cake

I love when the birthday song is sung by my little ones.
I love it when they take such pride in their creativity.
I love when my dh awaits the love they want to share.

but this picture says it all!!

been scrappin!

yep, found my desk and got busy!!
The Shaker Box has a kit club and Michele asked me to be one of her Kit Club girls!!! How exciting is that!!
Her kits are only $23 and some change!!! Usually, kits are way more than that because the people running the kits don't know how to run a website so she passes that onto her customers :)
anyway, here are some of the creations I have made lately in the wee hours of the night..
the photo of the baby is a new cousin!!! I got to photograph his mommy when she was pregnant and now him as a newborn!!! I love to use my skills in photography like this..
shhhhhhhhhhh
don't tell the mommy.. this is a gift for her!

need I say more?

Inspiration comes in so many ways...
I was reading Sheye's blog and shared with her this link of inspiration I love the book Tuesday's with Morrie and read it over my first dd's shoulder after each nursing... I tried to cherish each little momentof that special time.
As a former teacher I could see how much time I spent with other's children as they worked.... I knew I would be a stay at home mom. I wanted to be the first teacher.... to not have the latest and greatest is ok.. it will all come in time.

Queen V Wisdom

I can't wait to be 6..
why?
because 7 is right after.
uh huh
and besides, 4 is a boy number
and 6 would be what, Queen V?
a girl number, silly!

so.. 4 is a boy number.. 6 is a girl number.. got it...
and 7 is cool because you can blow bubble gum, go to friend's homes and have an underwater camera...

totally understand her logic!

Thinking Blogger.. is someone who

shares his or her talents because it is within them to share... it is part of them to give back....

my Thinking Blogger Awards go to:
Brenda Acuncius She is a fantastic photographer.. one I look forward to seeing more of in our area!! She does outstanding natural light portraiture and gives up and coming photographers a step in the right direction with her knowledge. Thanks, Brenda!

Shey Rosemeyer I found Shey's blog last Christmas or fall... She has a heartfelt blog and I think of her often. In February her beautiful Ava passed away in a tragic accidental locking of the car.. She had gone in to retrieve something and couldn't get out. Through her blog she talks about being a mom, a photographer, a wife... a woman. Please be sure to let your kids know how to get out of a car... honk the horn, try every door possible... teach them young!

Sweet Miss Daisy has a way with photography, stamping... life.. she takes it all in stride and will often comment back to you :)

Twisted Soda is the best.. a carefree artist... I love her muse... she makes me smile!

last but not least.. my IRL friend.... Dancing Queen Jeanine You know you mean the world to me, Jeanine!! I hope you are having a marvelous time in Hawaii... surf one for me, dude!

before I go.. I have to tell you.. I used up alllll my space on my external hard drive... I have to go through and cull!! ugh! lol! wish me well in this endeavor!!

A Thinking Blogger

I got an award!!!
I was awarded the
by Monkey Giggles
What a treat!!! I write what I think and as in life try not to offend. This is an open diary so even at times I keep more things to myself. I think I have to do this- for my own sanity. As my sister says, "some things must remain private." It's what holds us together.. our glue.. our secrets.
It has taken me a while to post this- sorry, Monkey Giggles, but I have had so much going on and didn't want to miss a beat with my kids.. it's what it's all about. My education of them- of our faith, of becoming a good person, a giving person all while knowing limitations, boundaries and yet striving for higher expectations...

so ... now I have to come up with 5 blogs that I think are "Thinking Blogs"
hmmmmm
it might take me a while so I will put this up and come back with an addition to this post.

Mr. T is TWO

and all of 2!
he has had a ball playing with his sisters today. Dh blew up 25 balloons and they have been twisting them into hats, belts and whatever they can imagine...
streamers every where
sweet boy....

he saw a photo on the computer from 2Peas and said, "baby" so clearly!! It was the first time he could put that word with what he was seeing!!! I am so lucky to be a SAHM to hear the first words... what a treasure!

gifts? what gifts did he get??

jelly bellies from Queen V (she bought it with her own money)
an original painting of himself by Lady G
a monkey that I picked up a the Door County Confectionery
Click Clack Moo!! I love this book and he sits so still when we read it at the library!
Fisher Price People to stick in his pocket...
new T shirt and swim trunks from dear friends in California
puzzle from his Godfather and wife

he loved it all but kept looking at the mantel asking for more to open... lol! He likes the boxes...
Dh made the monkey "talk" and it was hilarious!! I got photos - of course- those were the classic ones of his birthday. He actually gave the monkey "race cars" (for those of you who don't know it's the knocking of knuckles from one person to another... dh needed a son bad! lol!

edited to add.. I have found my limitations... I cannot make a cow cake.. the darn thing's head keeps falling off.... ugh! so when the rooster crows I will be purchasing a cake at the store and putting farm animals on it.. lol! Thank God for Fisher Price! lol!

Priceless Summer Night

hot evening
cool Lake Michigan
restless child
red moon
smooth sand
+gently lapping waves
======================
priceless summer night in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin

gone digi..

well, the baby's fingers can't get cut by scissors..
I get to work on the photos even more!!
I have learned how to make a template.. something I knew how to do before but had diapers on my brain..

the template to the LO "Read" can be found here: Read

what is going on in our world..

Mr. T is swimming with a noodle- alllll over the pool!
Queen V is not afraid to practice her swimming- she thought everyone was going to laugh at her.
Lady G is learning to dive...

I lost my wallet today.. again.. I know, I know.. can't keep up.. ugh. I do know where my keys and shoes are though :)

The last photo shoot I did - maternity - had her baby today :) all are healthy and probably awake right now! lol! I can't wait to do the newborn shoot for them.
I went to Office Depot to gather a ledger, a file folder holder (too late to remember what that is called.. no, not a filing cabinet! lol!) and some other things for my photography. I have a feeling it is going to pick up some speed this fall.. so I want to be ready. I am coming up with templates for my cards to be given out at Christmas time. I have some great ideas and can't wait to get going on them!!! I also got business cards.. time to think up a color scheme and logo....

Hope all is well with you :)

sweet 7

my sweetie turned 7..
lost her first tooth
swims like a fish
had her first sleep over with her cousin
runs crooked
pretends to whistle while having a shrilling high pitched scream come from her mouth
slapped her sister in the face.. we can't all have good days, huh? lol... such changes 7 brings....

materials:
template, swass by Shandy Vogt
pp: Shabby Princess

going digi!

yep, I am back to scrappin'!! stampin' and yes, more photography!!!
I am in a class with MLK Studios in California and am learning a ton. I wish I wasn't so hesitant to share photos as I learn so much when I do...

anyway, a quick LO using digi elements... by ShandyVogtdesigns.com

one word answer tag

tagged by Taylored Expressions

Yourself: Silly
Your Partner: Giving
Your Hair: Straight
Your Mother: Prayerful
Your Father: Smart
Your Favorite Item: Canon XTi
Your Dream Last Night: photoshop
Your Favorite Drink: sangria
Your Dream Car: convertible
Your Dream Home: beach
The Room You Are In: study
Your Fear: death
Where You Want To Be In Ten Years: Healthy
Who You Hung Out With Last Night: husband
You're Not: Quiet
One of Your Wish List Items: organization
The Last Thing You Did: dishes
You Are Wearing: shorts
Your Favorite Weather: spring
Your Favorite Book: Tuesday's With Morie
Last Thing You Ate: slimfast
Your Life: chaotic
Your Mood: Happy
Your Best Friend: Husband
What Are You Thinking About Right Now: Home
Your Car: minivan
What Are You Doing At The Moment: reading
Relationship Status: Married
What Is On Your TV: Nothing
What Is The Weather Like: Sunny
When Is The Last Time You Laughed: this morning

USM.. the big mystery!!

I am just getting the hang of this... my focus fell slightly on some recent photos and I wanted to get them back- the capture was so cute.. but how to make it look right??

well, use your USM in your photoshop. It's called UNSHARP MASK but it does seem to sharpen.. It has to do with how it was done in a real darkroom versus how we do it in a computer digitally. "It gets it's name because it unsharpens (de-focuses) the image and uses the difference with the original image ..." (this quote from Focus Magic)
Anyway..
there are 3 things to understand.
The first being amount which is measured by percentage.
The second being radius which is measured by pixels.
The third being threshold which is measured by levels.

I have some links to some sites and I would really like to get a discussion going on this great filter!!! What do you say?? are you ready to clear up some of your photos that are soft on focus??

http://www.luminous-landscape.com/tutorials/understanding-series/understanding-usm.shtml
luminous landscape

this one is studied by a lot of people. He is right on in his explaining- some times a little technical but you might be into that!
http://www.cambridgeincolour.com/tutorials/unsharp-mask.htm

maybe you want a quick once over??
wikipedia

photos and diagrams here:
scan tips

this guy is really clear and explains it very well!! I love this site!
Earthbound Light

clear and concise with photos to go with the information! He shows you with the filter pulled down
Nature Scapes

explains different ways of how to use USM (from global to detailed to parts of a photo)
Creative Pro

another explanation with great photos for visual learners (tips inside this one!!)
http://docs.gimp.org/en/plug-in-unsharp-mask.html

about dot com always has tons of references!
http://graphicssoft.about.com/od/photoshoptutorialssharpen/Photoshop_Unsharp_Mask_and_Other_Sharpening_Methods_and_Tools.htm

another quick description:
http://www.steeldolphin-forums.com/htmltuts/unsharp.html

in podcast form:
http://kabili.libsyn.com/index.php?post_id=155509

another great tutorial:
http://www.photocritic.org/articles/usm.php

for those of you using PaintShop Pro
http://www.scenic-route.com/tutorial/psp/tutor/unsharp/Unsharp.htm

tutorial with comments from others so you can learn from their mistakes:
http://www.cameronmoll.com/archives/000169.html

to show you that you can go TOO FAR with this
http://www.digicamhelp.com/processing-photos/advanced-editing/unsharp-mask.php

and the last tutorial/article came from the great Lone Star State!!
http://www.lonestardigital.com/usm_fade.htm

what's got your attention?

I wonder what he sees.
what exactly is he taking in?
the warmth of the air through the open window.
the sounds of birds chirping
my slow movements around him to capture that wonderment...
the dirt in the window sill?

yea, I am sure that's what it is.. the dirt.

I came in the front room today and found him face to face with the baseboards. What on earth are you doing, little one???
he hops up so quick and mumbles his mumble.. lol!
I look....
it's a dead spider!
such a boy!

look to the future

significance
missions
value
talent
belief in myself...
faith and hope... learning to trust more and believe in God's hand more...

In the absence of value,
price is an issue.

been working through a few things..
praying a lot, for sure, about new endeavors
praying for families being joined
praying for babies on the way
praying for parents to take a moment to breathe
praying that the sun comes out and Lady G has beautiful flowers growing around the house for her birthday..

Lady G had her training wheels taken off today.. after some tears she got back on and tried again.
Queen V hates applesauce and spit it on me.. I gave her an apple and she was happy.
Mr. T is totally terrorizing the house! ugh! lol!
Sweetie is being encouraging me to find my wings and sprout them again..

summer is here and I am extatic!! wonder what it will bring??

150 things about me

I was inspired by Alli and Michele!!!

My accomplishments (or otherwise) are bolded if completed.
1. Bought everyone in the bar a drink
2. Swam with dolphins
3. Climbed a mountain
4. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive
5. Been inside the Great Pyramid
6. Held a tarantula
7. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
8. Said "I love you" and meant it
9. Hugged a tree
10. Bungee jumped
11. Visited Paris
12. Watched a lightning storm at sea
13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise
14. Seen the Northern Lights
15. Gone to a huge sports game
16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa
17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
18. Touched an iceberg (if the one at the Titanic exhibit counts!)
19. Slept under the stars
20. Changed a baby's diaper
21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon
22. Watched a meteor shower
23. Gotten drunk on champagne
24. Given more than you can afford to charity
25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
27. Had a food fight
28. Bet on a winning horse
29. Asked out a stranger
30. Had a snowball fight
31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
32. Held a lamb
33. Seen a total eclipse
34. Ridden a roller coaster
35. Hit a home run
36. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking
37. Adopted an accent for an entire day
38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment
39. Had two hard drives for your computer and a 300 gig external!
40. Visited all 50 states
41. Taken care of someone who was drunk
42. Had amazing friends
43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country
44. Watched wild whales
45. Stolen a sign
46. Backpacked in Europe
47. Taken a road-trip
48. Gone rock climbing
49. Midnight walk on the beach
50. Gone sky diving
51. Visited Ireland
52. Been heartbroken longer than you were actually in love
53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger's table and had a meal with them
54. Visited Japan
55. Milked a cow
56. Alphabetized your CDs
57. Pretended to be a superhero
58. Sung karaoke
59. Lounged around in bed all day
60. Posed nude in front of strangers
61. Gone scuba diving
62. Kissed in the rain
63. Played in the mud
64. Played in the rain
65. Gone to a drive-in theater
66. Visited the Great Wall of China
67. Started a business
68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken currently!
69. Toured ancient sites wqalked on a Roman Road!
70. Taken a martial arts class
71. Played D&D for more than 6 hours straight
72. Gotten married
73. Been in a movie
74. Crashed a party
75. Gotten divorced
76. Gone without food for 5 days
77. Made cookies from scratch
78. Won first prize in a costume contest I made myself a box of Tide with bubbles!
79. Ridden a gondola in Venice
80. Gotten a tattoo
81. Rafted the Snake River
82. Been on television news programs as an expert
83. Got flowers for no reason
84. Performed on stage
85. Been to Las Vegas
86. Recorded music
87. Eaten shark
88. Eaten fugu (pufferfish)
89. Had a one-night stand
90. Gone to Thailand
91. Bought a house
92. Been in a combat zone
93. Buried one/both of your parents
94. Been on a cruise ship
95. Spoken more than one language fluently
96. Performed in Rocky Horror Picture Show
97. Raised children still currently...
98. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour
99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country
100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
102. Sang loudly in the car, and didn't stop when you knew someone was looking
103. Had plastic surgery
104. Survived an accident that you shouldn't have survived
105. Wrote articles for a large publication
106. Lost over 100 pounds (45.5 kilograms)
107. Held someone while they were having a flashback
108. Piloted an airplane
109. Petted a stingray
110. Broken someone's heart
111. Ridden a bike
112. Won money on a T.V. game show
113. Broken a bone
114. Gone on an African photo safari
115. Had a body part of yours below the neck pierced
116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol
117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild
118. Ridden a horse
119. Had surgery
120. Had a snake as a pet
121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
122. Slept for more than 30 hours over the course of 48 hours
123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. states
124. Visited all 7 continents
125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
126. Eaten kangaroo meat
127. Eaten sushi
128. Had your picture in the newspaper
129. Changed someone's mind about something you care deeply about
130. Gone back to school
131. Parasailed
132. Petted a cockroach
133. Eaten fried green tomatoes
134. Read The Iliad and The Odyssey
135. Selected one important author who you missed in school, and read
136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
137. Skipped all your school reunions
138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
139. Been elected to public office
140. Written your own computer language
141. Thought to yourself that you're living your dream
142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
143. Built your own PC from parts
144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn't know you
145. Had a booth at a street fair
146. Dyed your hair
147. Been a DJ
148. Shaved your head
149. Caused a car accident
150. Saved someone's life

trials of the heart and spiritual bouquets

No. not me persay but trials that others face... before they cross your path.. what cross have they had to carry that day.. before crossing your path?
Nobody really knows what the other person has been through prior to their meeting.
You can sympathize with someone else but until you have been in their shoes can you empathize? Empathy is highly underrated... it goes without saying, I think.

**this entry is prompted by Janice from 5 Minutes for Mom.
***
My sister-in-law is creating something called a spiritual bouquet. She did it once before for a great aunt and is currently making one for some young seminarians to welcome them to our diocese. What is this bouquet you ask? Well, it is for the person that has everything... even the person who is economically poor but spiritually full. Follow me? Well, with this bouquet you fill it with those things that are completely out of your power, out of your control (like we can totally control anything- yea, right... lol!) You can also fill it with annoyances or those things that you would think "I am giving this up to God." Ever heard that saying? You let Him carry that cross for you.. He already has but you finally get it when you give up or reliquish the power to Him. So what my SIL is going to do is make this list and give it to the seminarians to show what we have given up all in the name of God.

Well, back to the bouquet and paths being crossed... Yesterday at Mass I saw this lady again.. weary, carrying a 6 month old on her hip, trying to keep up with her small son (found out he is 4) and pay attention to Mass. I have seen her before... trying to keep up and follow along- she gets so exasperated.. I can empathize... I am in the back of the church because my Mr. T can't sit still without wanting to charge to the front. Although this might be cute in theory it is far from what I want to happen... so in the back I stay, trying to keep up with him and follow Mass. It was REALLY full yesterday- lots of First Holy Communions. Well, Mr. T was checking out everyone's goldfish and sippies... I had to take him outside just to regroup.. I go outside and there is a little boy sitting in the middle of the walkway leading up to Church- no parent around. This makes me nervous.. I see her.. she sees me... I look again at her son.. I feel so sorry for him.. it's so difficult to stay still when you are little and there is no nursery to run around in.... I can't believe it.. she walked back in church! I was shocked.. being a former teacher and paranoid parent I kept a close eye on him... She popped back outside and motioned to him to get up.. he starts to play again... Instead of judging and letting the better part of me freak out I gave this up for the spiritual bouquet. I don't know what crosses she has had to carry that day, week, month or even year..
I asked her, "do you want me to watch your son so you can pray?"
She says, "well, if you're going to be out here anyway..."
I was left with this young lad... we talked and I got him to come a little closer to where I had my son... He's just a little guy.. Being a mom I know we can look at these little people and expect so much.. but we as the adult need to remember that they are little people... I gave up part of my Mass so that she could have a brief moment to pray in silence, not wondering if her son was throwing Matchbox across the vestibule or running around other babies...

Everyone had their cross to bear just then..
trying to pay attention
trying to focus
trying to be a Mom
trying to be a son
but what were they before our paths crossed?

finances
relationships
failing health
home life
past relationships
faith or lack there of
whatever the cross is.. everyone has them and to them they are the biggest... until they compare to someone else who is going through so much and still has faith. Amazing faith.

so, what would you put in a spiritual bouquet? What is under your skin you are ready to give up... what annoyed you today that made you think it just wasn't going to be a good day? Anything??? What complaint did you have for your day?
Unload in the comment area and let's create a spiritual bouquet to give to someone else.

WHIRLWIND OF A WEEK

This week has been "turn off TV week" at Lady G's school. We have had so much to do but usually Friday night is when my dh and the kids hang out and watch a movie together. Mostly they are movies I saw as a kid but dh did not... poor childhood.. had to wait till he was an adult to see Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Bambi.. who knew!

I have been playing around more with my camera and with my photoshop to get a little better than just getting by. I don't want to get by.. I want to really know what I am doing!

This week had so many things going on...
1. got a swap back from Sarah from Sarah and the Stampstars (see side bar) and the cards rocked!!!
2. We had the city call us twice in one day- we don't have sirens for tornadoes- they have an automated system that calls us... the one at night was especially bad.. we JUST got the kids down and then I got a call from the city saying to "take shelter immediately!" This was different than what they said in the afternoon... really scary! So I grabbed a sleeping bag and threw it on the pantry floor (I knew it was going to be a rough day so it was really straightened around so we could all get in with ease.. )I also got 2 big pillows for the kids... I got Lady G from her bed- she NEVER woke!!! The king got Queen V and then quickly handed her to me to get his truck under the tree - there was quarter size hail in the storm and we had just been hailed on a week prior!!! I had Mr. T in the sling and Queen V in the other arm... got Prince Charming into our powder bath and saw our town's name in the path of circulation... great... put Queen V in the pantry and she climbed on top of Lady G.. not knowing she was under a pillow.. I told her to get under the pillow with Lady G and she did... the storm passed but I let them sleep in there for about an hour until I was sure it was really gone and nothing else was coming from the west...
The kids NEVER knew they were out of their beds..
They have all slept walked since that night.. whew!!
3. volunteered at Lady G's school- I so love to do that! those kids are so sweet :) I miss teaching but as in previous blog entries I know this is where I need to be :)
4. Tonight we had a picnic with several friends in the Nature Center and the kids had a great time!! Mr. T loves the slide.. it gave me and dh a heart attack!!! That equipment was NOT built for a baby for sure!!!

**this photo is of Queen V from The Secret Garden we found.. it was so fun to go exploring with her!"

giveaways and favorites

Have you ever been to 5 Minutes for Mom? They have great tips, ideas and places for Mommies to go check out! I love how they are a mom based blog with links to other mommies... some are trying to start businesses and others are voicing opinions and tips. At any rate they are having a giveaway... for a 9" digital frame! How cool is that??? I love to take a picture.. you can tell by my blog!! I do try and scrapbook- so that I have some me time and so that my family can remember things we have done together... memories to share.. "one of those times" as my brother and I call them.

Sarah and the Stampstars You will be starstruck after going there... check out her link to the Craft Critique It's her little baby that doesn't need to be nursed in the middle of the night!lol! It is a thriving blog and critiquing center full of ideas, creativity and one of the nicest gals in the blog world!!

Sentiments by Denise : I think of this lady and her blog often. She shares her creativity and her sense of calmness. One entry in her blog that I remember is to do your share (insert my name here) for your family with a smile on your face... I am a SAHM and I can either gripe while I pick up Polly Pocket, Pet Shop, Fairytopia, Barbie, Legos, cars, colored pencils, socks, shoes, sandals, stuffed animals... you get the picture or I can do it and say a quick prayer for the loved one I am caring for. Mind you- I don't like to do these things but from her kind words I remember that in my life it is for service. With almost a Masters Degree.. just have to finish my thesis... I do this for the ones I love. It will not last forever.. some day I just might miss the chaos that goes with little ones going from idea to idea.. scattering the things that encourage their mind to grow! lol!

Stampalicious Her style is "stylicious!" lol! FRAKs- you gotta go just see.... every Friday a cool card giveawy! Her humor is just too much... you gotta se it to believe it!

A Bit East : clean
refreshing
creative
unique
stamps
scraps
photography
mommy
it's all in here
go check her out!

Twisted Chick Her style is so carefree and full of life and energy! I love the bold patterns and colors!!! If you are looking for energetic- SHE is your gal!

gotta add more photography blogs.. will add some links :)
Ready Aim Click He explains how to get the shot! love this!
Jessica Sprague : oh so nice- shares her talents for phptograhy, stamping, and photoshop! If you don't understand something you cand send her a message and she will get back to you - PERSONALLY! How's tht for a helping hand!!! What a sweetie to share her time and talents!!

Hope some of these can help you... I love how personality shows in everyone's blog.. simple to sophisticated.. honest to humble.. love it all!

burgers and brew

what's for dinner??
burgers and brew..
my sister introduced this brew to me.. lovely brew!
wish I could say it made me creative in my scrappy room.. I did think I got a nice shot of it! lol! so I guess it made my photography creative with still life :)

needed something creative after rude people today..
my old college buddy has a sister that used to say, "there should be a separate lane [on the highway] for stupid people"... or was it a separate mall?? anyway.. I think rude people should have the same.. a separate lane, a separate mall and a separate town. My town is becoming increasingly rude.. wish it went back to horses and cows. At least then I would know what not to step on and when to get a bigger shovel!

ok... enough gritching... gotta get some shuteye...

spring storms

Jeanine's Cardinal

I love a good storm- always have.. the electrify me!
We have had our fill around here though..
With my kids they have emotions that run like the weather...
if it's crying outside there are tears inside- meaning if it's raining outside my kids are clingy, weepy and needy! lol!
if it's sunny and bright so are my lovelies..

my photos of my kids lately sure do show it. I hope to show more of my handiwork with my photos... still working with Manual.. and now picking up some photoshop tricks for when I still just don't get it on my camera.. hopefully I will beging to get it right out of camera each time!!! This is my goal right now! I am having things click in my head that I was told last summer...
guess that's what happens when you have 3 kids- it takes a while to sink in!

this photo is for my friend, Jeanine... she is on a mission to photograph a cardinal- I saw a young male while at the gardens the other day.. (blogger won't take the photo... will try again later.)

Snow for Easter??

I couldn't believe it! Snow on Holy Saturday.. they are calling for more tomorrow.
The kids had a great time at the grandparents' home..
Once again my Queen V was tempted.. by her grandmother.. all this coming on the heels of a stranger...


the other day while we were putting out eggs for an Educational Egg Hunt a gal tried to give my dd some chocoloate. She had already said thank you politely and told the lady she would save it for Easter Sunday because she gave it up for Lent.
The gal had some more chocolate and tried to give it to some mommies.. we all said no thanks with some adding that they had given it up for Lent. She came to me and said, "well, how 'bout you? Take it."
"no, thanks, I gave it up as well"
Another lady chimed in, "so close to Easter, I'm not blowing it now!"
So then this gal turns to my dd and says, "well, I just give it to her. She'll eat it."
I replied, "no, please don't tempt her. She gave up chocolates for Lent."
"Oh really," she said, "I gave her some earlier and I am sure she ate it!"
I smiled and said, "no, actually, she gave it to me to hold for her."
"OH! I would have thought she ate it... " She sounded rather disappointed. The lady tried anyway and dd who had been playing just said no and skipped off with another little 4 year old..

Can you believe the nerve of this gal?? I told Queen V I was so happy and proud of her for sticking with what she had said. We got in a big conversation about her faith, the lady tempting her.. Queen V's conclusion was that the lady was rude- not to her but to Jesus- imagine that!!! Out of the mouths of babes!

3 little ones and their blessings

My girl.. what a girl.. I see her here what she will become in the future.. a sweet gentle spirit..
she is so silly at times
so full of life
so fun to be around
and then it hits me
what a wonderful soul for God to have given to me to mother...
what a gift!













See the sun on her face?
A warm afternoon turned into a dreamy evening.
Right before bed the other night we went for a quick swing.
Look at the intensity in these eyes!!!
Are these the eyes of a future nun or mother?
Is this the child that will be a leader or a follower?
Nonetheless, we had a wonderful quick swing.
As a young girl I remember going for a run through the front yard in my nightgown after a bath. I had a favorite- thin, yellow, with a painting of an Indian Princess.. it made my dreams come closer I would think. I don't think my mom got it off of me if it weren't for going to school!













A place to sit with my boy.. love this.. he can sit and watch the cattle graze from his roost here..
wish I had a chair just like it..
Today he got ticked with himself so many times..
he was happy to see he could do a project at the library and nobody told him no, giggled that Mom and I were asking him where his parts of his face were... and then to take a fruit smoothie and dump it all over his tray only to smack his hands in it and make a huge mess- it was across the room on the wallpaper.. shhhhhhhhhh, don't tell my dh..... I got it all cleaned up.. he was giggling.. it was funny but I didn't want to encourage him.. even my girls were giggling at his giggling.. it's contagious!
on the way to Mass tonight I could hear his gears turning.. I turned around to see this smirk on his face.. his hands were moving like they were earlier when he was rather pleased with himself.. and then he started cracking up.. so funny!

First Day of Spring and Report Cards were blooming!

yipeee! The kids went to storytime today- all about spring!!! They made posters... Mr. T tried to eat some glue and Queen V was making sure it was all in a pattern- she worked very hard!

Report cards came home today.

I hated report cards as a kid.

Would my parents like what I did?

Would the scores be high enough?

Is that another mediocre grade??

being a former teacher I *know* what it takes to get into the universities.

It is NOT easy! I had a kid once who was class president from 8th grade through 12th, was involved in her church ministry/youth group, was on volleyball/basketball/track.. you get the picture- the ALL around kid- even graduated top of her class and took honors all the way!!! It took forever for the university to agree to take her!!! Kids have to walk in with a resume attatched before being accepted to college. This doesn't take into account how much it will be... that is for another blog entry...

I want to remember what it was like introducing my parents to my grades.... my thoughts... my work.. my daydreaming...

It was not until I was a senior in college that I took some tests to find out why I was not performing.. I was always told by Mom and Dad and the teachers, "if you just apply yourself you will get great grades and do anything!" Ugh! Being the 3rd of 4.. and being in between a dyslexic and an encyclopedia I kind of got overlooked. I talk to Mom about this frequently- not to make her feel badly but to let her know why I do what I do with my kids.. and probably even for reassurance that what I am doing with my kids isn't screwing them up! I think this is why I taught the way I taught... I liked teaching. I want teachers to be successful... and to know when they are not. I hope to someday help mentor more teachers.... for now I will correct mistakes others make, guide my little ones in their dreams, and pat them on the back for a job well done!

**ok, I know this LO has nothing to do with spring but I am on a roll!!! I love to share with you what I do to unwind at night! now it's time for some shut eye..... I think I am headed to the gardens tomorrow to scope out some great places for a shoot!

Cards for Troops

either way you do it the soldiers are waiting..
I know from reading so many historical pieces from men in war that they long to hear from "home"...

if you can, make and send a card to a soldier.
Iraq doesn't have a Hallmark

there is also this one:


Angel Stampers

just a simple note letting them know we are here, thanking them for taking on the duty of the missin abroad

love in bloom

I do have another kid- really, I do... :)
I love these pics of her- swimsuit, hair the way SHE wants, porcelain skin- sheer perfection! I love how she makes me a better person. The bottom right photo makes me almost drunk looking at it- so dreamy!

oh, she asked Mom what she wished for....
... mom said to be heatlhy, wealthy and wise. Queen V's response was, "noooooooooooooooooooo, you can't do that, Gran. You should wish to be a princess."
so much for being a potato or peanutbutter....

Since I don't have a Cuttlebug (an embossing machine) I do have some papers already embossed! I have had them forever and since embossing is "vogue" I thought I would take the chance to pull out papers I have and put them to use! and now Queen V has another page for her books!

what do you wish for??

my Queen V asked me this tonight..
Mama, what do you wish for?
I wish for your happiness and health.
No, Mama, what do you wish for?? you know not like that.. something!! Like you wish to be a ladybug or a fairy.
I wish for flowers to be all around the house that we don't have to weed.
Yea, that's a good one, Mama..
or you could wish for potatoes or peanutbutter.
I want to wish I am a potato or be peanutbutter.
Yea... hahahahahaha

Now, why didn't I think of that?? potatoes or peanutbutter. She is so silly!

whirlwind of an educational trip!

Alamo

Texas State Aquarium

Bird Island: no pics for this yet.. they are stuck on my cell phone. I can't figure out how to send them to the computer yet... The water was littered with windsurfers- how intoxicating for me!!! Oh, how I wish my sweetie was there so I could just borrow a board for a moment and let him watch the kids... another time perhaps!!!


National Seashore


Texas Capital

Peace Demonstration" this was outside the capitol when we came out of the building. Nothing like a demonstration of free speech. It is democracy in action. As a former social studies teacher it was exciting to see and to explain to my kiddos. We walked the halls where I explained the "rules" are made up, checked to see if they are fair (constitutional- and yes, I made my kids say this word) and written into lawbooks (which we saw the law library as well!)

As I dropped my dd off for school today I heard the DJ state that we only have a few more days left in this session and the representatives have only voted on one issue that has passed.. yep, one. You know, if we did that for our normal job we'd be sweating it out praying we could keep our job and not get laid off. As a former teacher if I didn't get a set of papers graded it was not pushed to the side but a pot of coffee was made and I read through those essays until it was done. Years ago Texans surrounded the capitol building itself and wouldn't let the representatives out until a decision had been reached... wonder what they would think if that happened now a days???? Maybe we could get the bills passed or put to death quicker without having things attatched to them to assure a death or passing. KWIM???? oh well... educatin on all parts... I pray that they make good decisions for our state and get it all accomplished...

cupcakes, pizza, polly pockets

What more does a 3 year old want for her birthday??
She made the plans and I made the invitations (which she told me she didn't like at all.. she picked out the stamps, ribbons and papers.. ugh! if it's like this now what is it going to be like in 10 years??)

We have pink cupcakes - which she told me weren't quite pink enough.. until we got to this point-
"stop, Mommy! it's PINK!"
"ok.. you lick this beater and let me get it all together..."
"I love you, Mommy, you're a genius!"

ahhhhhh, if life were so simple to be a genius getting the right amount of colored gel into the frosting.. by the way, I used Sarah and the Stampstar's recipe (thanks, Sarah!!!) Queen V loved it!


I had to use the birthday cake plate my dad had since he was a boy. Mom gave it to me when I got married- love it! My uncle saw it when Lady G turned one and was happy it was being used again. My grandmother bought it in a store in New Orleans while visiting a her sister, Vi. Anyway, I made a funfetti cake (love how moist those cakes are) and decorated it with one of Queen V's Polly Pockets and a squirrel.. and her new favorite color- pink!!

We had tons of pizza leftover so I sent some home with friends.. yep, adult goodie bags.. one less meal to fix this week or whenever :) Hey, pizza freezes you know!
The goodie bags the kids received had bubbles that had scents in them like mango, pineapple, grape, strawberries- all in the shape of icecream cones! hilarious! Charm lollipops, glow in the dark bracelets, and some tootsie rolls- all of these being some favorites of Queen V!

Favorite Thing about being 3

Mommy: Hey, Queen V, what was your favorite part about being 3?
Queen V: my favorite?
Mommy: Yea, your favorite thing...
Queen V: My favorite thing about being 3 is my cousin Lisa. She makes me happy. I love her.

all this without skipping a beat!! I so love the little girl she is becoming!
She melts my heart
She makes me crazy
She makes me laugh
She makes me think
She makes me a better mommy.

I love you Queen V!
I am so glad God gave you to me to guide through this world, what a gift I get each day being your mama.
Even if we butt heads we are "still friends"- we will always be Mommy and Queen V...
sweet angel...

I wonder what you are dreaming your last day of being 3....
you ran in my room this morning telling me all about your dream you had last night- so joyful and fun! I love that!!

can't download my daughter's play pics

I am so upset I can't stand it...

I can't download...
I took the greatest shots of her... saw them on the camera but when we got home I tried to put them on the computer and the file says they are not there...
the computer reads that there is information there.. .
I went to put the card back into the camera and it reads that there are no images....

have you ever had problems downloading or having the computer download from the chip???
I'm just heartsick!
help me if you can!

***UPDATE***
I got my pics!! not all of them but most of them.. Canon told me I was out of luck. Sans Disk said I was out of luck.. Wolf Camera told me I was out of luck.. I just refused to believe the... I got the pics and they are wonderful!!!
I did a memory image recovery thanks to some gals on ILP (they are so sweet!! thanks!!)

Passions and Definitions

such a wonderful thing to be in love!
to be passionate!
what are you passionate about?
what defines you?
are these 2 one in the same?
is there a difference???



I would love to know what makes you guys tick.. I see there are quite a few that drop by... leave me a comment....


no crafting today- but plenty of picture taking. I seem to be underexposing them.. figured out how to change the exposure tonight and we'll see if it will make a difference. I have a question about f-stops.. feel dumb asking it but I can't make the appeture go any higher than 4.0 Do any of you know why??? hmmmm

how many hobbies can one person have??

I think I have a sickness....
I jump from hobby to hobby...
hoping I will get the hang of it...

design for scapbooking
settings, composition, and color for photography
colors and techniques in stamping

I think I need a good pair of walking shoes... I need to get my fanny up and move it... lol! The closer I get to 40 the closer I don't want to have the "spread!" lol!
I love to work out- it gives me a sense of empowerment!
noone does it for you.. you have to do it yourself!




ahhhhhhhhhh but then calls my camera.... and now a new one I can't stand myself! I have spent some time surfing at 2Peas and then at KT to learn more. I have gone to the Canon forum but something tells me not to stick around... so I lurk and don't comment. I really want to learn how to get that shot.. the one SOOC (straight out of camera) that has someone say- she got it! She has the touch... right now I am lucky when I get that shot- you know??? I want to learn HOW and master it... I have the tool.. but need the time... with 3 little ones around it's tough!
Paintedmoon on 2P suggested reading megapixel myths and then someone else discussed reading this article. Both are really interesting ... at least to me.. a little food for thought about cameras.
Anyway, yesterday as we waited for Lady G to get out of school I got some shots of Queen V- hey, she was strapped in and couldn't go anywhere.... so I snapped away, dogearing my manual and adjusting the settings... I still underexposed and don't really know why so I had to use Levels and fill flash on these to get them ok- what do you think?
when blogger decides not to have hotflashes with uploading I will be back.. gotta get a quick shower... dh is snuggling our wee-one and is SNORING big time!