Welli Designs

MOVING ON

2008-06-06T06:32:00.001-04:00

You guys were amazingly sweet and supportive yesterday; I really appreciate all your comments, and bouncing around your blogs definitely gave me a lift. Didn't get much work done, though!

Here's one thing I did manage to finish. As I mentioned a few days ago, I'm hosting an About Me Challenge at Deco-Pages. We've been having a great time with this - if you haven't yet, stop in and check it out (my shameless plug for the day). Well, I really put myself in a trick with this month's challenge:

The topic:

What do you consider to be your very best qualities/characteristics? If you're like me, you're going to have to enlist some outside feedback for this; that's OK. I think we always focus on our faults, and I want this month's challenge to be very much the opposite. You can use pictures, if applicable. Actually, you can use pictures if they aren't applicable! I really want you to focus on those traits that make you the "best" you, if that makes sense.

I sat down yesterday to work on my layout for this, and damned if I didn't draw a big, fat blank. No surprise, really, when you consider the mood I've been in. I can give you a LONG list of my shortcomings in a matter of nanoseconds (took the nerd quiz yesterday!), but telling you about my good points would largely consist of the sound of crickets in the silence. And I imagine it's that way for most people, which is why I chose the topic in the first place. After pestering my family relentlessly, this is what I came up with:

And as I thought about this I realized that most of my aforementioned shortcomings spring directly from this, and that, as usual, I couldn't see the forest for the trees! So I'd like to challenge you guys to consider this topic. No layout required, just a bit of reflection. What's your best quality? Don't fall into the fault trap - when that nonsense springs into your mind, just take a step back and rethink it. Bet you'll find that you have a lot of positive qualities, traits that you've been conditioned to see as flaws. Stop it. Embrace your defining characteristic, and use your powers for good rather than evil!

Back to work.

Ephesians 3:17-19“so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”

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Quote of the Day:
I am not a vegetarian because I love animals; I am a vegetarian because I hate plants.
--A. Whitney Brown

MUSINGS

2008-06-05T06:37:00.002-04:00

I joke about my OCD tendencies, but it really isn't always that funny. Right now, for example, I'm driving myself insane because I'm a compulsive organizer. And re-organizer. It's probably one of my favorite hobbies. I'm always looking at spaces, sizing things up, trying to figure out how to make everything functional and beautiful at the same time. I hate clutter. I hate junk. I like to be surrounded by things that serve their purpose in the most aesthetically pleasing way possible.

It wasn't that big a deal when I could do the reorganizing myself. Sure, my husband would be a little irritated when everything in the house occupied a different space each month. My boss would roll his eyes when he'd walk in the door and my entire desk would be torn apart for the third time in a week. Those were pretty minor annoyances in the grand scheme of things.

Now, I have to rely on others to create the environment that I see in my mind's eye. Talk about frustrating. I always end up in tears, feeling sorry for myself and completely enraged at the unfairness of my situation. I know there's a lesson here; I even vaguely know what that lesson is. I'm not supposed to do everything by myself. I'm not a force unto myself. But I HATE this. I spent a lifetime fighting to be independent, strong, capable. The more I struggle against the idea that everything has changed, the unhappier I become.

I think one of the ways God works in us is through our compulsions. Until I learn the lesson, I will be compelled to reorganize my surroundings. Actually, that's inaccurate. I know the lesson. But I haven't changed my attitude. Until I do, I will remain dissatisfied with my situation. That's what this entire cycle boils down to. Sounds simple, doesn't it? In these moments of perfect clarity, when it really clicks, I am close to God. I feel His presence; I hear Him speak; and I feel such joy.

We are to be the body of Christ. We are meant to be interdependent, to rely on each other, support each other, love each other.

And there it is.

1 Thessalonians 5:11“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

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Quote of the Day:
I was so hungry I could have eaten a horse. But only pigs were available.
--Anonymous

NEW OPPORTUNITY

2008-06-04T18:30:00.007-04:00

Well, I was riding the DST Blog Train yesterday, and something caught my eye - this little badge in the sidebox of a blog I enjoy reading quite a bit. I'm curious by nature; so naturally, I clicked to investigate. The link took me to Pay Per Post. I can get paid to post on my blog? No way! I like blogging, I like money, so theoretically I can combine the two. Well, that part does in fact remain to be seen, but I certainly intend to give it a go. I've been in a bit of a funk, off and on, and this could be just the thing to get me over the hump. It's hard to feel like a productive member of society when most of what you produce is work for someone else. But my brain still works, and I have lots of thoughts and opinions. I'm happy to share, and I'm VERY happy to get paid for sharing! Pay Per Post is designed to facilitate that process, offering opportunities for me to blog about various topics or sponsors. For example, say I accept an assignment to write about blog ethics. You'd get a nice little post outlining basic standards and practices, maybe with some additional resources for future reference. Pretty simple, right?

So why should you care? Well, maybe you'll benefit from reading some of these posts. You might find some insight or information that you'll find useful. I really hope to be able to do that, you know. Help. Contribute. Produce. And maybe you’ll click that button and find some things you’d like to get paid to discuss. Anything’s possible.

And in the interest of full disclosure:

MONTHLY KIT FOR CLUB DECO RELEASED

2008-06-04T06:37:00.001-04:00

The designers at Deco-Pages have put together a beautiful kit for Club-Deco members. It's called Garden Party, and it features bright, fun colors and lots of pretty little items you are going to want for your spring and summer photos. Members go to the forum to download this month's kit; if you aren't a club member, it's just $36 for an entire year's worth of goodies - or $7.99 for one month, or $15 for 3 months! This is a STEAL!! Sign up in the forum today.

FONT CHALLENGE AT MY SCRAP SHOP

2008-06-04T06:36:00.003-04:00

A new font challenge started June 1st - take the opportunity to scrap a new layout using a wickedly cool font. Participants will receive a coupon for $2 off anything in my store in addition to this quick page that coordinates with my newly expanded kit, Art Gallery:

This prize is exclusively available at My Scrap Shop, so be sure to post your entry before midnight on June 30.

AND JUST SO YOU DON'T FORGET. . .

2008-06-04T06:36:00.001-04:00

about my June store giveaway, here's a little graphic:

Take it easy!!

1 Chronicles 29:11“Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all.”

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Quote of the Day:
Their’s not to reason why, Their’s but to do and die...
--Alfred, Lord TENNYSON

MY JUNE GIVEAWAY

2008-06-03T01:30:00.001-04:00

I love store giveaways. I always get excited when I know that every dollar I spend will give me a return of some sort. And I really like to give things away (my husband gets cranky when the seasons change, 'cause he knows he's about to make a Goodwill run!)

So what better way for me to promote my new store than to have my own giveaway? Check this out:

Want a chance to win a $15 Amazon Gift Card? Like earning credit toward future purchases?

Make a purchase at MoveFearlessly Designs in June, and you'll receive a gift certificate to my store in the amount of 50% of your total purchase. A $5 purchase will earn you $2.50, $10 will earn $5, etc.
Every purchase during the month of June will be entered in a drawing for a $15 Gift Card to Amazon.com. Winner will be randomly selected and announced on July 1st.

Don't miss out - visit MoveFearlessly Designs today!

EXCITING EVENTS AT MY SCRAP SHOP

2008-06-02T00:47:00.001-04:00

First and foremost - check THIS out:

My friends, you gotta scope this out. We just welcomed a new designer, Mega-Doodle Inspired, and she's loading up her store. Our other amazingly talented designers have been hard at work creating some really cute stuff. Take a look at Sir Srapalot's new collection, The Digi Diva Girls (TOO cute):

There are also some great commercial use products, with more being added every day.

Finally, as I mentioned yesterday we have a new kit for the My Scrap Shop daily download. Visit the forum every day to get a new piece; by the end of the month, you'll have the complete kit!

Okay, that'll do for the moment. I had some other things that seemed important, but I hear Mr Sandman - gonna mug him and grab all the dream dust I can.

Hebrews 9:28“so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.”

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Quote of the Day:
Life is an onion. You peel it off one layer at a time, and sometimes you weep.
--Carl Sandburg

JUNE ALREADY?

2008-06-01T07:14:00.002-04:00

One of the worst things about being a kid, for me anyway, was the incredibly slow passage of time. Christmas took two years to arrive, seemed like summer vacation would never start, and anything that I looked forward to never happened fast enough. Any time I would complain about how the days dragged on, my mother would caution me not to wish my life away. Wise woman.

So I blinked, and the month of May totally disappeared. And I can honestly say that one of the worst things about getting older is this weird time warp I'm living in. That and wrinkles.

Anyway, a new month means new challenges. I'm hosting a new About Me Challenge at Deco-Pages, and a new Font Challenge at My Scrap Shop. Stop by and check them out; I think they will be a lot of fun! And of course, they pass the time.

Also, we have a brand new kit for the My Scrap Shop daily download. Visit the forum every day to get a new piece; by the end of the month, you'll have the complete kit!

Hope you guys have a fantastic Sunday and a terrific week!

Revelation 21: 2-4“I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

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Quote of the Day:
Alcohol, if taken in sufficient quantities, produces all the effects of intoxication.
--Oscar Wilde

WII FIT

2008-05-31T05:37:00.001-04:00

I have a love/hate relationship with it. I got it last week and tried it out immediately. I was dismayed to discover that I can only do between five and six minutes at a time. Now I knew my balance and core strength needed work; that was the whole reason for buying the Wii Fit. I will say I think it's going to be a great tool for my rehab/recovery.

I finally completed a project yesterday. Pretty sure I'll be able to finish the rest today; I'm definitely working toward it. Now I'm cranky - I wanna go play on blogs but instead I gotta work. Oh well

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17“For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”

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Quote of the Day:
WARNING: Repeated brain usage may be harmful to others.
--rdude

SCRAPBOOK CLASSES, ANYONE?

2008-05-30T10:55:00.001-04:00

Chances are, if you're reading this, you're already familiar with scrapbooking in one form or another. But, if you're a beginner and would like to shorten your learning curve a bit, you should take a look at some scrapbooking classes I just added to my store. The classes are offered by Christy Haig, in both beginner and intermediate levels for PSE and PSP. Check it out here.

In case you're wondering, still no creative spark. Had good intentions yesterday - picked up my computer and just knew I would be finishing up all my open projects. I then proceeded to download some songs, order some shoes, spend hours browsing online stores looking at junk I don't need, and mess around with my e-mail programs (why do I have more than 1? good question). Basically I spent all day trying to do anything but work. So now I gotta cram. Send some juice my way, guys - I could sure use it.

Psalm 56:4“In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?”

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Quote of the Day:
A thing well said will be wit in all languages.
--John Dryden

WHERE, OH WHERE DID MY MOJO GO?

2008-05-29T02:58:00.001-04:00

Never fails. End of the month already, got a ton of things due on the 31st, have even started working on a couple of them. But I look at them and think, "This sucks." You didn't think I was gonna pretty that up, did you? Nope, not today. I just can't cross the finish line with any of these projects. Someone do me a solid - blow up my computer, please?

Ok, enough whiney baby nonsense. Just a little plug here for a service I'm offering in my store for designers who want new blinkies or banners and just don't have time to get them done. Take a look at my slick little ad.

Be sure to drop in my store and check it out.

OCD MUCH?

2008-05-26T00:03:00.001-04:00

Anyone who spends more than 5 minutes with me pretty quickly figures out that I put the "A" in "Type-A." I'm anal, picky, persnickety, particular, and above all, obsessive. What's the point, you ask? Okay, maybe you didn't, but LUCKY YOU - I'm here to do that for you! Point is, when I get an idea in my head, and it takes root, I'm absolutely stuck until I do something about it. Which is why I haven't posted in over a week.

Late last Saturday I decide I want my own store. The desire had been there, just an amorphous, ephemeral thing, but it really developed into something with legs last weekend. The whole thing went something like this: "I want my own store. My web host provides free stuff; let me go see what's there. Oh, look, Zen Cart. Install. Now what?"

The "Now what" is that in order to get my store looking EXACTLY the way I want (and those of you living with me in OCD-land know there just ain't no other way it's gonna be!), I spent the better part of 2 days re-writing style sheets, installing them to the server, starting ALL OVER not once, not twice, but THREE times when everything crashed (I have no idea why, don't even ask!). Spent the next day or two working to get an SSL certificate and fine-tuning a few things. Spent some more time (not as much as I needed thanks to my new Wii Fit - more on that tomorrow!) uploading and organizing.

I really could've posted this 2 days ago, but the store still wasn't RIGHT. It isn't totally now, but it might never be, you know? So HERE is the link - if you go check it out TODAY, and use the coupon code MFDMemorialDay (I KNOW that's a long code - just copy and paste it, okay?), you'll get 75% off your order. WOO HOO!! Be more excited - this is the beginning of GREATNESS, I'm telling you!!

New in the store today, and EXCLUSIVE to my store, are the following paper pack and kit - 75% off, one day only.

AQUATIC LIFE

PLAYTIME

James 1:19“[Listening and Doing] My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,”

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Quote of the Day:
Hit any user to continue.
--Fuzzel Fish Administration Page

NSBR

2008-05-16T02:02:00.001-04:00

Do you know how long it took me to figure out what that acronym means? And how dumb I felt at the "A-Ha!" moment? Yeah, laugh it up. So that's my spoiler alert; the bulk of this post won't be scrapbook-related. I have to apologize, first of all - I had every intention of posting a new kit, a new paper pack, and the first download of a free kit that will take the remainder of the month to unveil. I've been sidetracked, hijacked, you name it.

You know about the bug - that, fortunately, has passed. My husband, however, has managed to derail my normally unshakeable focus with his rather sweet and COMPLETELY irritating habit of renting movies at ridiculous times. Usually not a big deal; there are few movies made today (current-era Hollywood) that require my full attention. I'm not that old, really (I'm really not!), but my taste in movies runs that way - I'm a Clark Gable, Cary Grant, Rock Hudson, John Wayne kinda gal. Imagine my surprise when he brings home not one but two movies that were just about the best I've seen in YEARS. Curious, aren't you? Here's the second spoiler alert - I am sick, twisted, demented and in general find the weirdest things absolutely hilarious. First movie - No Country for Old Men. We actually watched this one Saturday night, and I loved it so much I ordered the book from Amazon, got it Wednesday and read it last night - EVERY BIT as enjoyable as the movie! Second movie? Sweeney Todd. LOVE Johnny Depp!! Now, how much will it tell you about my sense of humor that I laughed like a LOON frequently during both of these movies? Not at the subject matter, of course. There's something about beautifully written dialogue that just does it for me. Lots of people will disagree - but different strokes, ya know?

I'm wrangling with my darling son. He turns 14 on Saturday (I REALLY AM GETTING OLD!), and we are both suffering from his growing pains. Ever watch Bill Cosby, Himself? I really thought it was the funniest thing when I was a kid; now, it's truly just a joke gone horribly, horribly wrong. OKAY, so I'm exaggerating - I'm a bit theatrical by nature - but BELIEVE ME when I say this kid really is pushing his luck!!! If he didn't look so much like his daddy. . .

Well, I managed to kill a little more time I can ill-afford to lose! Sorry, guys - sometimes I just gotta let it all go. I PROMISE I'm all business from here on out! If I don't post over the weekend, it's 'cause I'm working FEVERISHLY to get lotsa goodies ready to roll (and MAYBE celebrating a birthday by going to see Iron Man - the kid might be grounded between now and then, who knows?). Enjoy your weekend - and spread some love wherever you go!

Zephaniah 3:17“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.”

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Quote of the Day:
Intelligence without ambition is a bird without wings.
--C. Archie Danielson

BAD START TO THE WEEK

2008-05-14T00:19:00.001-04:00

Well, I am WAY behind the power curve this week! Have been working, off and on, on a new kit and a new paper pack - unfortunately have spent the past 2 1/2 days wrangling with a nasty stomach bug. We'd planned to take the kids to see Iron Man on Mother's Day - sad to say THAT didn't happen. Oh well, next weekend!

My freebies won't make an appearance until Friday; then I hope to have a little something for every day from now through the end of the month, so be sure to check in with me!

In the meantime, here's a coupon for you to use at any of my stores (links can be found in the right-hand sidebar). Good through May 31 - and my goal is to add lots of new goodies (I hope daily), so you'll have BEAUCOUPS things to choose from!

OK, for those of you uninterested in matters relating to faith and prayer, read no further. I certainly don't want anyone to feel I'm trying to push anything on them, but for any readers who feel pretty comfortable with the subject, I have a request. Please visit Beloved Mama's blog and say a prayer for those who are in desperate need - there are quite a few, including some children. I've been having a tough time this week (as everyone does from time to time), and it helps me to feel like I can do something for another person in need - even if the only thing I can offer is a prayer. Thanks so much.

Psalm 139:13-14“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”

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Quote of the Day:
Keep your fears to yourself, but share your inspiration with others.
--Robert Louis Stevenson

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!

2008-05-11T07:20:00.001-04:00

Hope everyone has a little something special planned for Mother's Day! Here's a coupon for you guys, just in case you'd like to do a little shopping (wink!) - this will give you 50% off your purchase of anything of mine, good in any of my stores (links are located in right-hand sidebar) today and tomorrow: MFDMOMMIE50

Don't forget about the free Daily Download at My Scrap Shop - the kit we put together for May is beautiful, so be sure to pick it up!

Also, check out the May Club Deco PTP kit over at Deco-Pages. This is a HUGE kit free for our members - check out the link for more info!

Be sure to double-check the freebies here on my blog today - I'll be removing these items tonight, so they'll be gone after that! I'll start a new set tomorrow, so check in with me.

ENJOY YOUR MOTHER'S DAY!!

Ephesians 4:32“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

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Quote of the Day:
Justice consists in doing no injury to men; decency in giving them no offense.
--Marcus Tullius Cicero

I AM CORN FLAKES

2008-05-10T02:59:00.001-04:00

Yes, it's true. And I don't even like corn flakes. . .

You Are Corn Flakes

You are traditional and easy going.
If something is high quality, you're satisfied with it.
You don't need much variety or novelty in your life.
You're happy with what you have. You're quite loyal.
You're the type of person who eats the same breakfast every day...
And likely at the exact same time each day!

Okay, by now you realize this is from blogthings. I really dig blogthings - and the quiz results are almost always spot on!

What kind of cereal are you? http://www.blogthings.com/whatkindofcerealareyouquiz/ Inquiring minds want to know!

I'm doing a sort of unofficial poll for the next few days, if you guys could help me out. I'm trying to decide if I should continue to offer freebies (which I like doing), and if so, what should I offer? Any comments or feedback would be MUCH appreciated.

Here's a layout I did this week for my Definition Challenge at Scrapper's Zone. Probably shouldn't post it - it makes me cry - but I like it. Used my kit Rhapsody in Blue. Sigh.

OK, gotta go to bed!

Matthew 18:15“[A Brother Who Sins Against You] "If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over.”

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Quote of the Day:
To cease smoking is the easiest thing. I ought to know. I've done it a thousand times.
--Mark Twain

I'M OFFICIALLY BRAIN DEAD. . .

2008-05-09T05:15:00.001-04:00

I try to get my blog posts done early each day so that I can post that I've updated, then I can spend the rest of the day trying to be productive. I'm not sure what's happening to my head here lately, but I didn't post at all one day and on another forgot to hop on the blog train. Gotta get my stuff together, maybe get a little more organized so I don't forget anything!

I'm still working on the kit I had intended to release today. I'm struggling a little bit with it, the colors are unusual and not quite like anything I've done before. I hope to have it done later today, but I think realistically it'll probably be ready tomorrow. Once I'm finished with a preview, I'll post it and ask an opinion, so be prepared to tell me what you think.

Not digging the forecast today - tornado warnings in effect thru the a.m. here in Virginia. SOOO not a fan of the tornado!

Here's a layout I did for my ABOUT ME Challenge over at Deco-Pages. Come on over and play this month; we're having a ball learning more about each other!

Romans 8:1-2“[Life Through the Spirit] Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.”

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Quote of the Day:
It's not how much you have that makes people look up to you, it's who you are.
--Elvis Presley, celebrity singer

SORRY!

2008-05-07T01:03:00.001-04:00

Well, I apologize for not posting this yesterday - I've been struggling a little with allergies, and apparently all my medications are affected by them! Yesterday was pretty bad, but I THINK I'm on the mend (I hope so, anyway!). So here's the freebie and new release intended for yesterday - enjoy!

FREEBIE - Click image to download:

And here's the paper pack, Blush:

Okay, hope everyone has a GREAT day!!

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”

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Quote of the Day:
For greed, all nature is too little.
--Seneca, Roman statesman and author

HAPPY CINCO DE MAYO!

2008-05-05T11:52:00.003-04:00

Wow, I am DRAGGING this morning! I love spring, but the pollen is killing me this year. My computer keeps doing funky things - maybe it's allergic to pollen, too?

It's taken me a little longer, but here's today's freebie - 10 papers that coordinate with Daydream, the new release for the day. I couldn't resist doing something in these colors - hope you like it!!

Don't forget to stop in at Scrapper's Zone for the blog parade freebies and My Scrap Shop for the free Daily Download!

2008-05-05T11:52:00.001-04:00

Here's my new release, today, Daydream. You can find it at D-P, SZ, and Scraphead now - it'll be at My Scrap Shop a little later today!

Philippians 4:6-7“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

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Quote of the Day:
No great advance has ever been made in science, politics, or religion, without controversy.
--Lyman Beecher

YIKES!

2008-05-04T01:46:00.005-04:00

Okay, it's 1 a.m. here, and hubby just started watching a movie - apparently a scary one, as a hand just reached out of a pond and grabbed a girl by the face! This is what happens when he's allowed out unsupervised.

Hope everyone enjoyed all the fun yesterday. Scrapper's Zone is still celebrating with sales, challenges, and freebies, so if you haven't had a chance yet, stop in and check it out!!

2008-05-04T01:46:00.003-04:00

I'm so scatter-brained sometimes! My Scrap Shop started offering a free daily download this month, and I completely forgot to mention it! We put together a terrific mega kit for May, so be sure to stop in each day to get it!

TODAY'S FREEBIE AND NEW RELEASE

2008-05-04T01:46:00.001-04:00

My new release for the day is a little different; Interlude is a dramatic 16-piece paper pack, and represents my first tentative foray into the area of CU/S4O/S4H. Today's freebie is an add-on to Interlude - if you want to use it for anything other than personal use, please email me. Download freebie by clicking the image:

Interlude can be found exclusively at Scrapper's Zone, on sale today for 50% off!

2008-05-04T01:45:00.001-04:00

2 Chronicles 7:14“if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

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Quote of the Day:
WARNING: Repeated brain usage may be harmful to others.
--rdude

ARE YOU READY?!?

2008-05-03T02:09:00.001-04:00

Well, we've been building up to the main event, and it's finally here! Lots of stuff today, categorized by store, and if you hang with me until the end - I've got an extra-special treat for ya!! Here we go. . .

NSD - DECO-PAGES

2008-05-03T02:08:00.003-04:00

Okay, something EXTRA special for you at Deco-Pages - a slew of 2-page QPs from all the designers to you - FREE!!! Lots of coupons included - be sure to grab them while you can! TOO TOO TOO many delish goodies for me to post here!

NSD - SCRAPPER'S ZONE

2008-05-03T02:08:00.001-04:00

You guys ready for this? Today - Saturday, May 3 – all items in the blue category are ONLY $1!! This includes today's new release, Rhapsody in Blue (more to follow).

Additionally, check out the Blog Parade for freebies from the SZ designers! My entry for the day coordinates with Rhapsody:

OOOH, PRETTY! (that's your line!) Be sure to stop in at SZ today!!

NSD - MY SCRAP SHOP

2008-05-03T02:07:00.003-04:00

Hold on to your socks, folks! MSS events for the day include:

BIG sale all weekend!

40% off of all personal use
25% off of all commercial use

Grab Bags are not included in the sale price as they are already ridiculously discounted.

ALSO:

We will be hosting a chat at DST on Saturday for a NSD celebration. The agenda includes a little trivia and a LOT of prizes and gifts just for coming!

Where: http://www.digishoptalk.com/chat.html

When: Saturday May 3rd, 1 PM Eastern

What to Bring: Your best fun hat and your freshest funky attitude, we are going to have a little fun!

Some of the prizes include:

- Lots of coupons for free stuff from our store

- A gift from Pillowgirl that has never been seen before

- Something to warm your heart, or your hands.

LOOK AT THIS:

This FABULOUS gift is YOURS just for showing up - and it's ONLY THE BEGINNING!

NSD - SCRAPHEAD

2008-05-03T02:07:00.001-04:00

Scraphead is celebrating NSD with its Grand Opening - and 40% OFF!! TONS of great designers with TONS of great stuff here, so be sure to check us out!!

NSD - LAST BUT (I HOPE) NOT LEAST. . .

2008-05-03T02:05:00.001-04:00

Okay, here's my new release, Rhapsody in Blue - you know how to get it!

Now, for your reward (if you made it this far!):

Everyone leaving a comment IN THIS SECTION through May 5th will receive the kit of your choice FREE. ADDITIONALLY - if you post a comment here before 12 midnight EST May 5, you get a chance to win a $10 gift card from Amazon.com. Well, what are you waiting for? BE SURE to let me know which kit you'd like!! HAPPY NSD, everybody!

Romans 12:12“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

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Quote of the Day:
To educate a person in mind and not in morals is to educate a menace to society.
--Theodore Roosevelt

NSD CELEBRATION - DAY 2

2008-05-02T00:53:00.001-04:00

Looks like an official newscast, right? Hope you guys had fun cruising all the events yesterday. I've been busier than a one-legged man in a butt-kicking contest (yeah, I'm from the South!). Unfortunately I didn't get to visit all the blogs I wanted to yesterday; I plan to rectify that today, however!

On to today's freebie (and new release). Have I mentioned that my favorite color is purple? Take a look around. Not very subtle, am I? ANYWAY, get a load of today's freebie - it's a mini paper pack which coordinates with today's new kit, Grape Crush (yeah, I'm from the South!). For those of you scratching your heads, perplexed at my insanity - Grape Crush is a type of "pop" (soda for you Yanks) that was my FAVORITE when I was a kid. "Now, why did this lunatic name her kit after soda?" you may be asking yourselves. Answer: Dunno. It was the first thing that popped into my head. (Hey, naming these kits is NOT easy, you know!)

All right, I've fooled around long enough. Drum roll, please!

2008-05-02T00:52:00.003-04:00

Don't forget to pop in at Scrapper's Zone today to check out the blog parade and all the other PHENOMENAL things we got going on! There's a cool little scavenger hunt happening in addition to mega sales and fun challenges.

2008-05-02T00:52:00.001-04:00

And here it is - my pride and joy - GRAPE CRUSH. This 24-paper pack can be found in stores today, so RUN! No, don't run - proceed safely through cyberspace to one of my stores and purchase this labor of love today!

2008-05-02T00:50:00.001-04:00

1 John 5:14-15“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
The bananas were like that when I got here!
--Humpty Dumpty

WHAT???? Someone explain that to me!

LET THE FESTIVITIES BEGIN

2008-05-01T02:54:00.001-04:00

Today at Scrapper's Zone we're kicking off our celebration of National Scrapbooking Day with lots of challenges, sales and blog parades. TONS of fun stuff, great prizes, and fantastic freebies are available all week; among these is the Color Challenge I'm hosting. Full details can be found here. Everyone who participates will receive a coupon for $2 off their purchase of any of my items at SZ as well as this mini paper pack:

Additionally, the designers over at SZ are doing a blog parade, where we'll be giving away free stuff every day! I have two items for today: a mini paper pack and a quick page that coordinate with today's new release, Risque (more on that below). Click either image to download today's freebie.

These are just a couple of many terrific events going on through May 7th at Scrapper's Zone - be sure to check it out!!

TODAY'S NEW RELEASE

2008-05-01T02:51:00.001-04:00

Well, starting today I'll be releasing new kit every day until May 7th as part of the whole NSD celebration. I've tried some different things with a couple of these kits, and I hope you like 'em! Today's new release is called Risque, mainly because that's how I felt while I was putting it together! You can find it in any of my stores today. What are you waiting for? Go get it!

Hebrews 11:6“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
He who does not prefer exile to slavery is not free by any measure of freedom, truth and duty.
--Kahlil Gibran

LOTS OF STUFF TODAY

2008-04-29T01:22:00.007-04:00

Okay, today's post is gonna be a long one; lots of info here, and I'm actually going to break it up into mini-posts so I can categorize everything for easy access over the next couple of days. As I'm sure you guys know. May 3rd is National Scrapbooking Day. TONS of stuff going on all week and throughout the weekend, so instead of releasing a new kit today I will (HOPEFULLY) release a kit a day from May 1st through May 7th. Additionally I'll be featuring some goodies here that I think you guys will really like, so be sure to check in!

First things first: here's the download link for the final part of the kit. I tested it today - SO sorry about yesterday's snafu!! BTW, the DL link for part 6 is working, so if you didn't get it yesterday, be sure and grab it now!!

DECO-PAGES

2008-04-29T01:22:00.005-04:00

We have a very special treat in store for you at Deco-Pages for NSD - AND THAT'S ALL I'M GOING TO TELL YOU (right now, anyway!). I might have a little teaser for you later this week, though!

SCRAPPER'S ZONE

2008-04-29T01:22:00.003-04:00

We have an entire week's worth of events lined up at SZ, so stay tuned for more info (boy, I'm not being too helpful today, am I? hee hee hee!). I WILL tell you that we have some great freebies, challenges, prizes. . .

MY SCRAP SHOP

2008-04-29T01:22:00.001-04:00

MSS will be hosting a chat at the DST chatroom on NSD, May 3rd at 1 PM Eastern. There will be a ton of prizes and freebies to give out. And we will play a game of digiscrap and MSS Trivia, so you will want to see what you can win!

You guys excited yet? GOOD!! Read on, Macduff! (Sorry, I'm a bit punchy right now!)

A SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT AND SOME GOOD NEWS

2008-04-29T01:21:00.001-04:00

I AM TICKLED to announce that I am among the new designers to be selling at Scraphead starting May 1st! WOOO HOOO! (can you see my happy dance?) Those of you who saw Michelle's post yesterday know that's the day she becomes the new owner, and I gotta tell ya - VERY excited to work with her and the amazingly talented designers over there. Be sure to visit us!

Okay, if I haven't bored you to tears yet, I'll keep trying - LOL! I posted over the weekend about some pain issues I've been having - thought since I'd been a baby and made you read that, I'd share something very exciting I noticed today. Think I mentioned that I've noticed a correlation between these spells and some sort of progress. Yep, sure 'nough - today, virtually all day, I've been able to achieve almost FULL extension of my fingers with my wrists flexed. This is HUGE. It means that somehow, damaged nerves are managing to reconnect, reconfigure, re- whatever it is they need to do to make my body function again! I'm literally crying from relief and happiness. It's pretty encouraging, and I just wanted to share - and to thank you guys for bearing with me!

OK, if I haven't lost you, here comes the important stuff:

Job 19:25“I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth.”

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Quote of the Day:
The cynic is his own worst enemy. It requires far less skill to run a wrecking company than it does to be an architect.
--U.S. Andersen

Well, son of a gun - can someone PLEASE tell me how the widget does this?

DOWNLOAD PART 6

2008-04-28T03:49:00.001-04:00

We're almost at the end of this one, so grab it while you can! There is one more piece of the download after today; the entire kit will remain available throughout the day on Wednesday. Then this and the other freebies will be removed, and we'll start fresh with some fabulous and totally as-yet-undreamed-of goodies!

You know the drill. . .

NEW CHALLENGE/DOWNLOAD PART 5

2008-04-27T00:47:00.001-04:00

No more rambling; I'll let the graphics speak for themselves. Click each for the appropriate links.

And here's the download link for part 5:

PAIN

2008-04-27T00:46:00.001-04:00

It's not been the best couple of days. I had resolved not to post about it, but sometimes it helps me get rid of things when I do. I'm going through one of those horrible, depressed, I hate everything phases. Pain doesn't help. No one seems to be able to confirm this, but sometimes the pain is SO MUCH WORSE than usual, and I really think it has something to do with damaged nerves trying to reconnect. Usually after a really bad flare, I'll see some progress, whether strength- or fine-motor-connected. Which should encourage me - BUT - it's pain, you know? Sometimes I just can't breathe from the intensity of it. Worse than the physical pain is the heartache. And then I get mad - not just at this situation but at my constant inability to come to grips with it.

Oh I AM SICK of myself! Time for some widget action.

Luke 19:10“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
If misery loves company, misery has company enough.
--Henry David Thoreau

You know, I'd REALLY love to know how the widget does that!

PART 4 OF THE DOWNLOAD

2008-04-26T09:44:00.001-04:00

I tried to come up with a catchier title, but I'm a little tapped. Think I need a nap.

Hebrews 7:25“Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
We need not all agree, but if we disagree, let us not be disagreeable in our disagreements.
--Martin R. DeHaan

CRAPPY TV, SOCCER, AND AN ANNOUNCEMENT

2008-04-26T09:33:00.001-04:00

I'm not a TV snob. I just like it when the shows I watch have some kind of resolution during the 45 minutes or so that I'm tuned in every week. My husband, however, just doesn't care about that. Take one of his favorite shows, Lost. I REALLY try to like this show; something must be wrong with me, right? I'm always more confused at the end of each episode than I was before. I hate this. I do not like being run in circles - forward flash, back flash, cryptic references all over the place - resolve something on this show, PLEASE. I'll never get it - I'm a CSI-kinda gal.

Soccer season is upon us, and my house is in total disarray. I guess there are worse things; my kids enjoy the sport, they're good at it, and they love the fact that their dad coaches both of their teams. But I'm not crazy about smelly socks, muddy cleats, the Saturday morning scramble to get them out the door. "Where are my shin guards?" "I don't know - where's the last place you saw them?" "I don't remember!" "Don't just stand there - look for them." "I can't find them." "Did you look in the car"? "Here they are!" EVERY Saturday morning, without fail. They weren't this bad when they were toddlers.

Yeah, I know - you guys just want to know who won the giveaway, right? FINE! This has been fun, but hectic. And I wish I had a card to give to everyone who entered! Well, here it is. The winner of the $25 Amazon Gift Card is JOANNA (j_k_zebedies@yahoo.com) Congratulations! The gift card will be sent later today - PLEASE leave a comment here to let me know when you get it!!

ARTE Y PICO AWARD

2008-04-25T12:12:00.000-04:00

It's taken me a couple of days, but I'm happy to announce that I've been nominated for the Arteypico Award by SKrapper Digitals, http://skrapperdigitals.blogspot.com/ - thank you, Sherah!!

WOO HOOO!! (doing my happy dance, oh yeah)

The rules state that as a recipient, I have to nominate 5 deserving contemporaries for this wonderful little trophy, which has been tougher than you might think - there are SO MANY amazing sites out there.
For those of you receiving the Award, here are the rules:
1) You have to pick 5 blogs that you consider deserve this award for their creativity, design, interesting material, and also for contributing to the blogging community, no matter what language.
2) Each award has to have the name of the author and also a link to his or her blog to be visited by everyone.
3) Each award winner has to show the award and put the name and link to the blog that has given her or him the award itself.
4) Award-winner and the one who has given the prize have to show the link of "Arte y Pico" blog, so everyone will know the origin of this award. http://arteypico.blogspot.com/
Make sure you visit the link above. There are crafts of all kinds shown; you are bound to come away inspired!
5) Show these rules.
Here are my five nominees, in no particular order:

http://flergsblog.blogspot.com/ - This is the designer I aspire to be!

http://digiscrapchat.com/ - AMAZING - so many terrific resources here - thank you, Char!

http://ctrl-alt-doll.net/blog/ - Love this blog - always a good read, with lots of great information and links.

http://barbhogan.typepad.com/black_belt_scrapping/ - Again, always a good read, and Barb's layouts are always unique and inspiring.

http://jensurge.blogspot.com/ - Not only a terrific designer, Jen is a very talented photographer. I love to visit her blog.

2008-04-25T06:12:00.001-04:00

Came across a great resource on the blog train yesterday - I checked it out briefly and gotta say, pretty cool (how's that for a ringing endorsement?)

http://www.freegraphicscentre.com/

And here's the link for today's download (click image):

OK, back to work. I'll leave you with this:

Colossians 1:27-28“To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
The easiest person to deceive is one’s own self.
--Edward George Earle Bulwer-Lytton

MY SCRAP SHOP NEWSLETTER AVAILABLE

2008-04-24T01:52:00.001-04:00

You guys need to check this out! There are some nice new features in this week's newsletter. Also be on the lookout for great sales, coupons and a free gift!

Take a look at it here. . .

And read on for today's free download.

1 Peter 1:18-19“For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
At times the whole world seems to be in conspiracy to importune you with emphatic trifles.
--Ralph Waldo Emerson

FREEBIE?

2008-04-24T01:51:00.001-04:00

So as I'm preparing today's post, the word "frebiee" catches my eye. Frebiee? FREBIEE?!? Did I really post that? Apparently so. My proofreading skills just aren't what they used to be, I guess. I read, re-read, and diagram every sentence before publishing this stuff, but that one sure slipped by me!

I had every intention of posting this preview yesterday afternoon so I could finish the other kit I've been working on, but things just didn't work out. Not long after I uploaded yesterday's freebie, I started seeing white lights in my peripheral vision. Migraine. Ugh. So now I'm behind - AGAIN. In the grand scheme of things, not a catastrophe, but I hate missing a deadline - even when it's just a self-imposed one.

Okay, here's a preview of the free kit in its entirety; the link for part 2 of the download follows. I'll be posting a portion a day between now and next Wednesday. Remember, on May 1st the links for this and all the other freebies posted to date will be removed, so if you see something you like and you want it, grab it while you can! Starting May 1st I'll be doing a different series of freebies and specials, never fear!

Download Part 2 HERE.

HELP!

2008-04-23T07:35:00.001-04:00

I'm making myself crazy over this. I've been working on the daily freebie for the remainder of April but as I don't have all the pieces in place, I can't make a full preview for you. i was torn as to whether I should simply post a preview of those pieces you'll be getting today, or if I should do a generic preview, which looks a little nicer. As you can see, the second option one out. Essentially, you will be receiving an entire kit; each day I will have available for you two papers and between two and three elements. As soon as possible, I will have a preview of the entire kit available. Click the image to download, and enjoy!

Romans 14:11“It is written: " 'As surely as I live,' says the Lord, 'every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
You cannot build a reputation on what you intend to do.
--Liz Smith

Gee, that's appropriate in light of today's post; how'd the stupid widget do that?

TODAY'S FREBIEE

2008-04-22T07:13:00.001-04:00

I've been playing around with a lot of QPs lately. I've decided I like them! But what do YOU think? Post a comment and let me know!

In the meantime please help yourself to this quick page. The link will remain active for one week, so grab it while you can. Tomorrow's freebie will be a a little different, so be sure to check back in. And don't forget about the coupon I'm offering through the end of April (check "Special Offers" to find it!)

NEW KIT RELEASED TODAY

2008-04-22T06:51:00.001-04:00

Well, I thought I'd try something a little different this time and this is the result:

And the are the elements:

And the frames:

It's Royal Rustics, and it's new in my stores today.

I still hope to have the other kit finished today, but if not, there's always tomorrow!

2008-04-22T02:41:00.001-04:00

Romans 1:20“For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
Happiness is a perfume you cannot pour on others without getting a few drops on yourself.
--Anonymous

Be back in a bit with goodies!

BLOGGY GIVEAWAY CARNIVAL

2008-04-21T06:32:00.001-04:00

This will be my first year participating in the carnival and I'm pretty excited! Quite honestly, I'm a HUGE believer in the gift card (keep that in mind if you're ever called upon to give me something!). So I'll be giving away a $25 gift card to Amazon.com as part of the giveaway. If you've never shopped there, you're missing out! So here's how it will work - anyone who leaves a comment for THIS post from now until 12am EST April 26th (don't worry, I'll keep reminding you!) will be entered into the drawing; the winner will be announced Saturday, April 26th.

Lots of folks are participating in this, so visit the carnival site to get other links for more great giveaways. Have fun!!

A FEW ANNOUNCEMENTS. . .

2008-04-21T06:05:00.001-04:00

Gonna be very busy today - I'll have some goodies and (I hope) 2 new kits to release tomorrow. I'm changing the way I do the freebies this week. First of all, the items I've posted so far will only be available until the end of April - then I'm going to remove those links. Starting tomorrow, I'll be posting freebies daily (they'll be smaller, mind you), and those freebies will only be available for 1 week. Just something I'm trying on for size!

National Scrapbooking Day is coming up (May 3, and could someone please tell me what happened to April?). Lots of things will be going on that day, and I'll be posting more info as I have it. If you guys would like to see/do something in particular, leave a comment and let me know. One thing we'll be doing over at My Scrap Shop is hosting a chat in the DST chatroom, and we'll have lots of coupons and gifts to give away. Mark your calendars for 1:00 pm EST, May 3rd!

Okay, it's back to work for me. Don't forget about the coupon you can use in any of my stores (35% off thru the 30th - check out Special Offers to get the code!). Hasta la vista!

John 10:28-30“I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
Perhaps the best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time.
--Dean Acheson

2008-04-20T06:46:00.001-04:00

1 Corinthians 15:55-57“Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
He who does not prefer exile to slavery is not free by any measure of freedom, truth and duty.
--Kahlil Gibran

SALES AND SPECIAL OFFERS

2008-04-20T06:37:00.001-04:00

2008-04-20T06:35:00.001-04:00

Take a look at what's on sale this week at SZ:

Scrappy Cats Remember $3.00

Rose McDD Sketch Template Mega Pack 3 - 35% off

And NEW in the store this week:

Eirene Love Spring

There's lots more - check out the Scrapper's Zone Newsletter for more sales and information!

NUTHIN'

2008-04-19T06:50:00.001-04:00

1 Corinthians 15:20-22“But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
Dishonesty, cowardice and duplicity are never impulsive.
--George A. Knight

OOH, good quote. I think. I'm pretty sleep-deprived, so that could be total junk. Always had trouble with insomnia, but I go through phases where sleep is entirely elusive, teasing me with one- or two-hour trysts, then dancing away, leaving me bereft and often delusional.

I have hallucinated whilst in the midst of a sleepless fugue. It was unnerving. (My furniture moved, rearranged itself, refused to obey my commands that it behave like the inanimate matter it was). So I don't really trust my senses when I'm in this state. That quote could be complete garbage.

I got nuthin' today. My intent was to have some more kit info, some previews of things to come, even another layout or two. I've started almost ten projects this week, but sleep deprivation has led to a lack of focus that's really starting to tick me off.

Enough of this. I'm going to work on some scrap stuff; I'll have more interesting material to post later. Unless the furniture starts dancing.

MORE LAYOUTS, STORE EVENTS, AND A GWP

2008-04-18T04:27:00.001-04:00

My favorite thing to do is layouts. Sometimes I'll scrap a picture 3, 4, 10 times because it's just that cute (don't you love digital scrapping?). This is a picture of my nieces taken in the summer of 2006; when I got a look at Adventures in Mauve by AfriDigiDiva I knew I had to scrap it again. BTW, this is the easiest layout I think I've ever done - didn't have to cut a border or recolor a single element. It's a great kit.

Here's a picture of my son I didn't realize existed until I found it posted on his MySpace page. Was getting ready to kill him when the scrapper in me realized the layout potential here (he still got grounded). Recognize the kit? MAN! It's my new release this week, Heather - see, very suitable for scrapping photos of the male creatures in your life (forgive the shameless self-promotion there).

On to some store news. . .

Over at Scrapper's Zone, Cindy Ritter Designs has just released a HUGE new kit:

And at My Scrap Shop, Skrapper Digitals has two gorgeous products for sale. Jean Ann was designed specifically for her CT member, based on things she loves: favorite colors, hostas, irises and flower gardening, vintage jewelry and heritage scrapping, and even some crocheted borders. I love the depth, texture, and realism of the elements in this kit!

Finally, here's a lovely minikit, also by Skrapper Digitals; she has some really great stuff - you should stop by and take a look!

OK I'm sure by now you're wondering what a GWP is, unless you view department store shopping as sport to be conquered, and then you know exactly what it is! GWP stands for gift with purchase, and that's what I have for you today. If you make a purchase at my store at Scrapper's Zone during the month of April, you'll receive the following element pack FREE! Be sure to use coupon code MFD04190825 to receive 25% off through the 19th. Next week I'll have a different offer for one of my other stores, so check back with me. (No minimum purchase required)

That's it for the scrappy stuff today - let's see if my widgets are working. . .

Romans 10:9-10“That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
So long as you rob Peter to pay Paul, you'll have Paul's support.
--Anonymous

LOTS OF THINGS TODAY. . .

2008-04-17T02:50:00.001-04:00

At My Scrap Shop:

This collaborative kit from Pillowgirl and SKrapper Digitals is huge, with over 270 MB of papers and elements. It is a wonderful Spring themed kit with lots of flowers to celebrate. You will be able to do several layouts with this kit as it includes 48 papers and the following elements:
18 flowers
23 ribbons
10 patches
27 tags
4 gems
5 buttons
15 beaded elements
9 frames
4 journals
13 bows
3 stitched up pockets
1 stitched circle
and more...
You will love scrapping your spring layouts with this kit for sure.
Get it while it is on introductory pricing at 25% off!

Here are a couple more layouts I didn't post yesterday (MORE computer issues - Bill Gates, I HATE YOU!):

Completed this for my Scrapper's Zone About Me Challenge - gross, right? HA HA HA! Too bad it's true!

This is my TOO DARLING niece Ashley - and if ever a child fit this Scripture, it is she! Kit is MAY 07-Club Deco-Ever After~Paris Designs at Deco-Pages.

Okay, this next is not going to win friends and influence people, but it must be said: I AM SICK OF AMERICAN IDOL. Yeah, I said it. Truth is, I'm sick of reality shows as a whole. It was ok for, I don't know, the first TEN years, but give me a break already! I specifically refuse to watch the news because I need a break from reality! Now let the tirade begin. . .

Well, that was fun! Tune in tomorrow, sports fans, and find out what other goodies I have in store for you!

1 Corinthians 1:18“[Christ the Wisdom and Power of God] For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
Commonsense and good nature will do a lot to make the pilgrimage of life not too difficult.
--William Somerset Maugham

FORMAT CHANGES

2008-04-16T08:17:00.001-04:00

OK, hopefully you noticed things are a little different here today. I'm going to be posting about things going on at different stores, and I don't want anything to get lost in the shuffle. So I added some links at the top of the page to make it easier for you to navigate the site. If I forgot anything, let me know and I'll fix it up right away!!

VERSE/QUOTE OF THE DAY

2008-04-16T08:05:00.001-04:00

I forgot yesterday - sorry!

Romans 13:8“[Love, for the Day is Near] Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
If you destroy a free market, you create a black market.
--Sir Winston Leonard Spencer Churchill

CHECK THIS ONE OUT!

2008-04-16T07:58:00.000-04:00

Over at My Scrap Shop, Sir Scrapalot and MCA Designs have started a whole series of Collab kits dedicated to their love of Broadway Musicals. The first kit, Conrad, has so many options you'll use it over and over. Come see it while it's on sale at http://www.myscrapshop.com (ALSO - Sir Scrapalot and MCA have put their stores on sale. You should give them a quick look, you're sure to love their stuff!)

YOU GOTTA SEE THIS!

2008-04-15T10:43:00.000-04:00

Take a look at this month's Team Kit from Scrapper's Zone, This kit is huge, with over 50 papers and 100 elements and a unique musical theme.

AND - this week only at SZ: make a purchase $10 or more from my store and get one of my kits FREE during the month of May!

NEW KIT IN STORES!

2008-04-15T02:49:00.001-04:00

Well, here she is, the latest efforts of my labors. I call her Heather - take a closer look, and don't forget to check out my special offers!

FREEBIE OF THE WEEK

2008-04-15T01:32:00.001-04:00

I got quite a positive response to last week's freebie, so I decided to do something similar. This week's freebie is an add-on to another kit I have for sale in my stores, Art Gallery. Let me know what you guys think (and be sure to check out my special offers!). Click the image to download.

SOME LAYOUTS AND A COUPON

2008-04-14T02:07:00.001-04:00

Or vice versa, I guess. This Saturday my dad will celebrate his 70th birthday, and in honor of that I have a coupon for you guys. Click the image to head on over to My Scrap Shop and celebrate!

FINALLY pulled myself out of the creative funk I've been in, and have a few layouts to share (personally didn't think that was ever gonna end!).

My submission for this month's Definition Challenge at Scrapper's Zone - used my kit Sorbet for this.

My submission for the Art Challenge, also at Scrapper's Zone. The kit is Tranquil; the work of art is "Flower Beds in Holland" by Vincent van Gogh.

One good thing about challenges - they can definitely ignite a spark of creativity when nothing else is working! I'll have more to share (plus a goodie and a new release) tomorrow!

I NEEDED THAT

2008-04-13T03:04:00.001-04:00

Romans 3:23-24“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

I've found myself falling into a real funk the last couple of days. I'm sure it happens to everyone (if it doesn't happen to you just PLEASE don't share that tidbit today). Feel like crying for no reason, wonder what on earth I'm doing here - you get the point. My husband - the delight of my youth and, if I'm lucky, my old age - made a fairly valid observation. He pointed out that, my entire life, I've been plagued by feelings of inadequacy. Anytime I've started a new job or undertaken any new venture, I've allowed myself to become absolutely riddled with self-doubt. Lots of reasons for this; but you'd think by now I'd have learned some new habits.

Feeling restless and unsettled, I thought if I got some of this off my chest it would help. But that blank page just stared at me, mocked me. That's when the widget caught my eye. I love that thing! So starting today the Verse of the Day becomes my springboard. I'll allow my thoughts to coalesce around whatever God provides through the widget. It sure helped today; I read that verse and a little light dawned in my soul. Like everything else - I am giving it to God.

Quote of the Day:
If you aren't living on the edge, then you are taking up too much space.
--Anonymous

FUN AND GAMES

2008-04-13T03:03:00.001-04:00

Every Sunday at My Scrap Shop a new round of challenges begins. If you get a little time in the next few days, stop in and check it out:

OH, MY ACHING HEAD!

2008-04-12T01:19:00.001-04:00

I'm going to not think about this as I type it - I don't want my computer to hear me! Go ahead, laugh - unless you understand what's going on, and if you do, could you let me in on it? I guess I better explain myself.

I am engaged in a deadly contest of wits with my computer. Deadly to me, because of course, the computer is winning. I know just enough about software and programming to get myself in trouble. And I have this amazing confidence in my ability to teach myself what I don't know; you see where this is going, right? So now I find myself looking at this $3000 paperweight wondering what exactly am I supposed to do next? All I want is for the programs I have invested so much time and money in to DO WHAT THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO DO!!!!!

I guess I'm gonna have to find a professional to help me. I don't know why that idea bothers me so much, except that's the way I've always been. And the thought just occurred to me that this little hiccup is part of an ongoing theme in my life - I don't want help, I can do it myself, I'm in control. As I type this, I can hear God laughing. I'm still the three-year-old trying to assert my independence, throwing a fit because things aren't going my way. I suppose I need a time-out. As I realize what's been going on, not for hours but for DAYS, I'm more than a little embarrassed. God really is the ultimate loving parent, infinitely wise and patient, knowing that I'd figure this out eventually. So I'm not stressing about this anymore. One way or another it'll work out.

Luke 9:23-24“Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
It takes a steady hand to carry a full cup.
--Anonymous

I FORGOT!!!

2008-04-11T11:20:00.001-04:00

I'm telling you, if my head wasn't attached. . .

1 Peter 2:24“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

I love this piece of Scripture!

Okay, my quote of the day widget is malfunctioning. I suppose I could go find a quote and do the copy/paste, but I'm really tired. I promise I'll get you a quote tomorrow!!

MISADVENTURES IN BLOGGING

2008-04-11T09:24:00.001-04:00

I'm always looking at this blog, tweaking it this way or that, moving things around - just trying to get it RIGHT, you know? I do this with everything, so you'd think I would've learned my lesson, but NOOOO. . .

Other night I'm cruising through some of my favorite blogs and come across a great-looking page. It has some things I want to try, so I view source and start studying the code. I'm positively thrumming with excitement at this point - all my bloggy dreams are about to come true!

I proceed to start making one change at a time, and things are zipping along. I'm so happy that it takes me several minutes to realize there are some things missing, some things there that shouldn't be. And I, being the genius I am, DIDN'T BACK UP MY ORIGINAL TEMPLATE! Yeah, I know it tells you to back up right there on the edit screen; I just didn't do it! So I spent the next 3 hours going through the code line by line to try and fix my little mess.

There are lots of lessons to be learned here - take your pick. Maybe I actually even learned one this time. We'll have to wait and see.

VERSE OF THE DAY, ETC.

2008-04-10T12:48:00.001-04:00

Romans 5:6-8“You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

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Quote of the Day:
When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on.
--Franklin D. Roosevelt

SOME LAYOUTS FROM MY CT

2008-04-10T08:46:00.001-04:00

Haven't done many of my own layouts lately - I'm in a funk and not sure how to get out. I'll start a layout, but lose interest about halfway along. So I thought today I'd show off some layouts created by my CT - thanks for your great work, Lisa!! She used the kit Rose Garden to create these:

TAGGED!!

2008-04-09T16:09:00.001-04:00

Ya know, tag was not one of my favorite games as a child. I did not see how chasing your friends, catching them so they could in turn chase you, constituted logical behavior (I was a strange child). And now someone's created a version of tag for the computer. To make matters worse, I was tagged by two people within 12 hours. How am I supposed to get any work done? FINE, I'LL PLAY!! There - I've thrown my tantrum. Feel much better now.

And let the game commence:

1. Cherrie - the DIVA - http://afridigidiva.com/Blog/

AND KJ - http://kreativejunkie.blogspot.com/

2. Took me 3 reads to grasp this. Then I couldn't figure out a better way to format it. I studied this more closely than I've studied for some tests!

Link to the person that tagged you and leave a comment.
Post the rules on your blog.
Share 7 Random facts about yourself on your blog.
Tag 7 random people at the bottom of your post, linking to their blog. Let each person know by leaving a comment on their blog.

3. SEVEN RANDOM THINGS ABOUT ME

When I was a child, I wanted to be either Captain Kirk or John Wayne.
I started reading Stephen King's books when I was 11 years old - hasn't affected me a bit. (No, really!)
I am a compulsive organizer (and reorganizer).
I tend to be a little shy when I meet new people.
I miss the ability to do hard physical labor. Never thought I'd say that after cleaning dead fish out of a pond in hundred-degree weather, but there it is.
I eat one particular food 2 or 3 times a day every day for months until finally the sight and smell of it just makes me sick. Right now the food is Strawberry Eggo Waffles.
I am UBER competitive. I'm not mean or hateful - I just absolutely HATE to lose. Gotta work on this.

4. OK, now for the hard part. I'll be back - I gotta go find seven folks to tag.

Mel - http://www.mcadesigns.blogspot.com/
Pat - http://turtlesrainbow.blogspot.com/
Sir Scrapalot - http://sirscrapalot.blogspot.com/
Evitangel - http://evitangel.blogspot.com/ - amazing thing with your background - so cool!
Sherah - http://skrapperdigitals.blogspot.com/
Claudette - http://www.digitalgator.blogspot.com/
Scrappindove - http://scrappindovedesigns.blogspot.com/

Whew - glad that's done. Now I can relax and check out your responses!

Hebrews 1:3“The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

NEW RELEASE

2008-04-09T02:46:00.001-04:00

Here's the new kit in stores today, Tranquil:

You can purchase this kit at any of my stores: Deco-Pages, Scrapper's Zone, My Scrap Shop

NEW CHALLENGES

I'm hosting two new challenges at Scrapper's Zone this month which feature a coordinating Quick Page and Minikit. Click the preview for more information about each challenge - hope to see some great layouts!!

Art Challenge

Definition Challenge

NEW FREEBIE

2008-04-08T05:50:00.001-04:00

This week's freebie is a companion minikt - matches a cute kit for sale in my stores, Day at the Beach. I'm thinking about doing these little minis to match other kits I'm selling, and I'd love to hear what you guys think. In the meantime, enjoy! Click the image to download.

AND - as an added bonus, here's a coupon for you to use for Day at the Beach (you'll find links below the image):

You can find the kit at:

Deco-Pages, Scrapper's Zone, My Scrap Shop

MIRACLE MONDAY

2008-04-07T07:08:00.001-04:00

Oh, this is hard. I’m already crying and I’ve got, what, 10 words down? (Those of you who know me are laughing because you know I stopped and did a word count!) My miracle. It’s a tough subject, one I’ve written about before on this blog and on my website. It seems almost self-indulgent to me to keep writing about it, but as I do my daily blogrolling I keep coming across amazing people and more opportunities to share this story. If I believe that God is directing my steps as I ask him to do (I do), and if I am resolved to follow where He leads (I am), then I have to keep telling it.

In December 2003 I was involved in a car accident and suffered a severe spinal cord injury. I was in bad shape; my level of injury was C6/C7, and most of the doctors who treated me were fairly certain I'd be completely paralyzed, and possibly dependent on a ventilator, for the remainder of my life. My family and I were pretty devastated by this news. I was always very active - I ran, taught aerobics, and was constantly on the go - so like most people, I couldn't imagine never moving again.

It sounds crazy to say, but I was lucky. My spinal cord wasn't severed; rather than a complete injury (which is still in this day and age very difficult to recover from), mine was incomplete. Even so, very few people thought I’d ever walk again.

Even as I sit here writing this, four years later, my heartbreak is so fresh I can’t catch my breath. I LOVED moving, loved being physically strong, being independent, being everything that I thought I was before the accident. The sense of loss is still sometimes so overpowering that it stops me cold, and I just don’t see how I can keep going.

My miracle is not that I am walking again, or that every day I regain some lost ability or function – although these things ARE miracles and I praise God for them daily. My miracle happens day after day, when I feel lost or lonely or overwhelmed with black despair – when my soul is tortured by things too big for me to handle – then I feel the arms of my Father envelop me, lift me, and I hear Him whisper, “I’m here. Let me help you.” And suddenly nothing is impossible.

I sat down today to write this because of a wonderful blog I found while meandering through the Internet community. A Mom’s Life is hosting “Miracle Mondays;” you can go here for more specifics. I think what she’s doing is fantastic, and I felt compelled to participate. We are touched by miracles every day; the very fact of our continued existence is a miracle in and of itself. Please take a minute to visit Beth’s site and read about miracles that have changed others’ lives, and please bless us by sharing the miracles which have touched yours.

Galatians 2:20“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
Speak in anger and you'll give the greatest speech you'll ever regret.
--Anonymous
(I disagree with this, BTW)

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

2008-04-06T08:23:00.001-04:00

Hey, I have thoughts - lots of 'em. Most I choose to keep to myself, but I'm sharing this one.

I made a comment to friends last night that twisted me a little. People accuse me of being antisocial. It's true; even my husband has said it. I haven't always been this way. When I was younger I yearned to be a part of things. But as relationships soured, as people I'd gotten close to hurt me, I closed up. Stopped seeking human contact. If I didn't know ya, didn't care to know ya - that sort of thing.

Ironically enough, I'm now involved in a hobby/industry that is extremely social. We engage in crops, challenges, chats; we shoot tons of emails around the world and start new threads in message boards; we share, in our layouts, details about ourselves that those who see us every day might not know (I do, anyway).

What's my point? I'm not sure I have one really. I just find it funny that I spent years building a shell around myself only to smash it to pieces now. I believe this is God's doing - He doesn't want us to be antisocial. Exactly the opposite, in fact. So He led me to a community, and rekindled my desire to be a part of things.

I'm officially no longer antisocial.

1 John 3:16“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.”

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Quote of the Day:
I detest the man who hides one thing in the depths of his heart and speaks forth another.
--Homer

THIS IS IMPORTANT

2008-04-03T09:13:00.003-04:00

Yeah, right. That's usually my response when somebody tells me something's important; then I proceed to ignore him or her! I hope that's not your response, and I hope you'll continue to read this.

If you are regular visitor to my blog, you have probably noticed that I'm constantly adding new items in the sidebars. I added something this morning that I hope you will take a minute to check out. Left side, directly under the thumbnail of this week's freebie. Prayer is happening. Some of you may not believe in the power of prayer, and I really hope that what I'm about to share with you will change your mind. There are a lot of folks in this world in desperate need of our prayers.

As you may or may not know, in December of 2003 I had a very bad car accident. It was a little after midnight, and it had just begun snowing. I was on my way home from a friend's house - on a small rural road that seldom saw any traffic - when it happened. To this day, I don't remember the accident at all. What I do remember, just like it was yesterday, is being trapped in the dark unable to move. I didn't know at the time that my neck was broken; I just knew I needed help. The only clear thought I remember having is " God, please help me. "

I believe I mentioned that this is not a well-traveled road. In the middle of the day with the sun shining, you might pass one other vehicle along the way. So the chances of someone happening along and finding me were slim to none. But that is exactly what happened. That one small prayer worked the first of many miracles that night. Over the course of the next few weeks, there would be a lot more prayers and a lot more miracles.

Please take a few minutes to check out the link - whether you're offering prayer or are in need of it, I think you'll find it helpful.

Hebrews 12:2“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

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Quote of the Day:
Intelligence without ambition is a bird without wings.
--C. Archie Danielson

ANOTHER CHANGE, AND I NEED YOUR HELP!

2008-04-02T14:46:00.001-04:00

I've been thinking for days about the best way to keep the weekly freebies easily accessible - I've been worried that they would get buried as I continue to post each week. Then it occurred to me that I could put a thumbnail in the sidebar that links directly to the post where the freebie is located. Anyone who is pressed for time can go straight to the freebie!

That got me to thinking about other things that people might want to quickly access. So now I need a little feedback. If you visit this blog for specific things, and would like to be able to find them more quickly, post a comment and let me know. I love this blog, and I want it to be as entertaining for you guys as it is for me.

Matthew 20: 17-19“[Jesus Again Predicts His Death] Now as Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside and said to them, "We are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and the teachers of the law. They will condemn him to death and will turn him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and flogged and crucified. On the third day he will be raised to life!”

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Quote of the Day:
Smooth seas do not make for a skillful sailor.
--African Proverb

NEW RELEASE IN STORES TODAY

2008-04-02T14:23:00.001-04:00

This is sheer oversight on my part - I was so focused on getting this week's freebie up and getting the new month's challenges started that I forgot to post the new release - sorry! Here it is:

Sorbet is cool, creamy , refreshing - just like an ice cream treat on a hot summer day! 20 backgrounds in delicious colors combine with assorted fun elements for your scrapbooking pleasure - and they're calorie-free, so don't be afraid to overindulge!

Special thanks to Ashalee Wall, Atomic Cupcake, Julia Fialho, and ScrapGirls for the use of some of their actions, templates or elements which were used in creating this kit. Add'l credits may be found in the TOU.

APRIL CHALLENGES

2008-04-01T21:47:00.002-04:00

One subject we scrapbookers rarely focus on is ourselves! Let's remedy that and get to know each other better in the process - join me at Deco-Pages and/or Scrapper's Zone for the "About Me" Challenges I'm hosting this month. Complete the challenge at one or both forums (they each have a different topic) to receive the following prizes:

DECO-PAGES

SCRAPPER'S ZONE:

Challenges run from today through April 30th. Click the links for more information and to join in the fun!!

DECO-PAGES

SCRAPPER'S ZONE

I KNOW, I KNOW!!

2008-04-01T06:02:00.002-04:00

I realized at about 1 a.m. this morning that I'd forgotten something yesterday. I have no excuse, won't even try to make one - I just forgot (oh, how I wince as I say that; I sound just like one of my kids!). DON'T FORGET to scroll down a bit for this week's freebie!

Psalm 14:1“[For the director of music. Of David.] The fool says in his heart, "There is no God." They are corrupt, their deeds are vile; there is no one who does good.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything. They just make the best of everything.
--Anonymous

How did Anonymous get so smart?

NEW FREEBIEE!!

2008-04-01T05:53:00.001-04:00

Well, it's Tuesday AND it's April (HOW can it already be APRIL?!?) - time flies, for sure! Got a new freebie available, and I think it's kinda cute! I call it "Precious Gems"; it really looks like the jewelry box I always wanted. Download it, make beautiful layouts with it - and don't forget to leave some love!! As always, I'd be delighted to see your pages, so SHARE!!

NO, I DIDN'T FORGET!

2008-03-30T11:10:00.001-04:00

There's some glitch with these widgets that prevents them from working when I post an image. But, this oughtta work!

Isaiah 53:3-4“He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
Life is not an exact science, it is an art.
--Samuel Butler, the younger

Happy Sunday!!

2008-03-30T11:05:00.001-04:00

I'm still working like a madwoman on lots of pretty goodies, thought I'd take the time to share a couple of layouts! Below is my son - as the journaling indicates, I couldn't quite believe it was him!!

Kit used: Tapestry - MoveFearlessly Designs

This is a layout I completed for a challenge in January. meant to post it earlier, but I misplaced the file - found it yesterday while looking for a different misplaced file!

No kit used for this one - I created the papers with some really neat ScrapGirls overlays. I love this verse.

FRANTIC!!!

2008-03-29T16:50:00.001-04:00

I hate the end of the month - I'm frantically trying to meet about 5 deadlines, get a new kit and a freebie ready for NEW RELEASE TUESDAY (don't forget to check back with me!), and we still haven't done our taxes! GULP. Had to come in for my daily fix, however; here ya go. . .

2 Corinthians 5:21“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
A civilization is built on what is required of men, not on that which is provided for them.
--Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

NOT A SCRAPBOOKING POST

2008-03-28T11:38:00.001-04:00

If you've been paying attention you've seen that I've been adding content that seems to have very little to do with scrapbooking. I feel the need today to clarify this. Scrapbooking is a relatively new area of interest for me. I really only became interested in it a few months ago, but I greatly enjoy creating things that others can use. The problem, as my husband pointed out to me, is that I am a workaholic by nature. For about a month now I've been obsessed with this to the exclusion of all else. That is going to change.

I've always been compulsive. I get an idea in my head, and it becomes a force which drives me. For a long time, I considered this a fault; I've fought against it tooth and nail, and have never been successful. Since my accident, I've begun to view this a bit differently. For a while I felt lost. I had no purpose, I couldn't do anything, I was useless. Yeah, I know, poor me, right? I really became desperate for God's presence in my life. Of course, since I'm a control freak, I spent a considerable amount of time engaged in a game of tug of war. As I'm sure it is for most people, it's really hard for me to let go. So I prayed and I prayed, and cried and screamed, and in general acted like a two year old. And when I had pretty much exhausted myself, when I was no longer distracted by the sound of my own voice, things changed.

When I stopped fighting, and started to pay attention, I noticed a few things. God had been answering my prayers; He just hadn't been giving me what I demanded! So I began to spend more and more time listening, and if He told me to do something, I did it. I bought a ton of nail polish even though I couldn't paint my nails. And I sat here with those bottles of nail polish, making a huge mess. I told Him, " I can't do this! " He whispered, "Try." And so we went, back and forth, night after night. Soon I noticed my dexterity was improving, I was able to open my hands a bit more, and I was actually able to paint my nails without getting too much on my knuckles!

So I try to listen, really listen, and do what He tells me. And it led me, strangely enough, to digital scrapbooking. I really barely paid attention at first. I was so excited that I'd found something I could do! So I created and created and created. And in the process, I forgot about God (not really - I just got a little preoccupied!).

As I was setting up this blog and my website, I noticed lots of these links you see here. They were interesting; I wanted to spend a little time reading - but I couldn't! I had too much to do! And it happened again: "Try."

I realized that I'm supposed to be sharing ALL my gifts, not just the scrapbook-related ones! I'm sure some of you will think it's inappropriate of me to use this blog as a venue for this. You're here to see layouts, papers, kits - I'm doing this professionally - this is no place for me to discuss my faith. I confess, I've been thinking that to myself. But this is wrong. I think lot of Christians have allowed this mind-set to sidetrack them. But if I want God in my life, then no part of my life should be separate from Him. That particularly applies to this; after all, He gave me this in answer to my prayers.

I hope you aren't offended. If you are, I hope you get over it. I really hope you decide to come with me on this journey. I don't know where it'll lead me, but HE DOES, and that's enough.

1 Timothy 2:5-6“For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all men—the testimony given in its proper time.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

Quote of the Day:
No mind is thoroughly well-organized that is deficient in a sense of humor.
--Samuel Taylor Coleridge

A Few Updates. . .

2008-03-27T11:32:00.001-04:00

I'm feeling a little better today, although I am very tired. Just wanted to leave a little note, however. You will see (maybe you will see; maybe nobody sees? ) that I re-did things once again. I wanted to make it easier for those of you who do stop by to find everything. I categorized entries, and you'll see that in the navigation block to the left. Just a little reorganization, one of my obsessions!

I removed the sidebar link to the Christians on Parade freebie; if you go down to the original post, you will still be able to pick that up until the end of the week. Then I will be removing the download link.

That's it for now - except for our Quote and Verse of the Day. You didn't think I forgot, did you?

Quote of the Day:
A blow with a word strikes deeper than a blow with a sword.
--Robert Burton

UGH!!!

2008-03-26T12:47:00.001-04:00

Today's entry will be short and sweet; I have a sinus infection, and in general just feel awful. Seems like I've spent most of the past three months getting sick, getting a little better, getting sicker, getting a little better, etc.

I had to see today's quote of the day and verse of the day, so here they are!

Quote of the Day:
If you’re looking for friends when you need them…it’s too late.
--Mark Twain

Philippians 1:29“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him,”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

NEW FREEBIE AND NEW RELEASE!

2008-03-25T17:52:00.001-04:00

Okay, because Tuesday is the second day of the week (there's no logic here; don't look for it!), I've decided each Tuesday will be New Freebie/New Release Tuesday! Well, that was a lot catchier in my head. ANYWAY, each Tuesday I'll be releasing a new freebie here and a new product in my stores. Follow the links provided to grab some goodies!!

FREE: POOL (Not because I'm a swimmer, BTW!)

DOWNLOAD HERE (and don't forget to leave some love!)

NEWLY AVAILABLE: SERENADE

You can find this at Deco-Pages.com (will soon be available at Scrapper's Zone).

SHORT & SWEET

2008-03-25T08:12:00.001-04:00

Quote of the Day:
Bureaucracy defends the status quo long past the time when the quo has lost its status.
--Dr. Laurence J. Peter

1 John 1:9“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) NIV. All Rights Reserved.

JUST FOR GRINS. . .

2008-03-24T16:33:00.001-04:00

I've always been a pushover for those "Word of the Day" calendars. So I was poking around in the Windows Live gallery & came across these plug-ins for "Quote of the Day" and "Verse of the Day" (yes, I'm geek - what can I say?), Enjoy!!

Quote of the Day:
To educate a person in mind and not in morals is to educate a menace to society.
--Theodore Roosevelt

Wow - I dig!

NEW WEBSITE, KITS, ETC.

2008-03-24T13:45:00.003-04:00

I hope everyone had a really great Easter! My family's been feeling under the weather for several days, so I've been spending extra time working on my website, putting together new kits, and brainstorming about the next "BIG PROJECT." That looks impressive, doesn't it? Too bad I'm not sure what the next big project is!

Okay, you'll see that the Christians on Parade info has been moved to the sidebar - the download is still available and will remain so until the 26th. I'm very glad you guys have enjoyed it, and I look forward to seeing your layouts.

I'm not a stupid person, but sometimes I AM a dim bulb! I've been hosting a really fun challenge at both Deco-Pages and Scrapper's Zone this month, and it just occurred to me to POST THE INFO ON MY BLOG! (Head-slapping moment) Anyone who hasn't been there yet should follow a link & check it out. Below is a preview of the prize all participants will receive at the end of the challenge:

You still have a week to submit layouts, so come over and play!

And those of you who get a chance, please check out my new website, http://www.movefearlessly.com/. I'd love some feedback, suggestions on improving the site, etc. I really appreciate it1

HAPPY EASTER!

2008-03-19T00:28:00.002-04:00

For Christians, Easter is a BIG day - much more than bunnies & eggs - and as such, some of us would like to share some freebies that reflect our Christian beliefs. In that vein, Nancy Wilkins aka Scrappy Cats, has sponsored Christians on Parade, an Easter blog parade for Christians. Below is a preview of one freebie available from today until March 26th; the download link follows. Visit the parade by clicking the link above to grab more freebies celebrating this very special holiday, and above all, REJOICE!

DOWNLOAD HERE and enjoy! And I'd LOVE to see your layouts - leave links in the comments if you wanna share!

Look - New Contest!

2008-03-18T15:59:00.002-04:00

Take a look at the new contest going on at Scrapper's Zone! Sign up for the newsletter for a chance at a free book from Shutterfly!