tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57864553161580334292024-03-14T00:48:27.236-05:00Mundane MiraclesFinding beauty in the everyday.Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-33734441258425621162013-08-09T23:32:00.001-05:002013-08-10T14:25:21.018-05:0010 on 10 {August}<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Wow, I am a TERRIBLE blogger! Which is why I am so glad to be a part of this network of talented photographers who keep me accountable for the "10 on 10". Each month, the members link up to each other and blog 10 favorite photographs from that day, month or even from a recent photo-shoot. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">For this month, I am showcasing my photo-weary family. Some moms nag at their kids to pick up their toys, or empty the trash. I nag at mine to stand still! Face the light! Tilt your chin a bit to get rid of that shadow! Turn this way! Smile! Not like that! Smile naturally! (pick your battles....moms....pick your battles.......lol)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Here are a few of my favorites from the month of August:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">There is no one I love photographing more than my Riley. We spent the afternoon at the park with her last week. She is autistic and profoundly mentally delayed. But she has a spirit, and energy about her that is infectious. When she smiles or laughs, it is with her entire body! It radiates from her. And I love to capture it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The same is true when she is upset about something. Ohhh!!! You betta watch out for the wrath of Miss Riley! Attitude! lol</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">There is no one she loves more on this earth than her daddy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The feeling is completely mutual. She can do no wrong in his eyes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Watching them together makes me happy inside and lets me know there are still great men in this world and I am lucky enough to be married to one.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: small; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Riley's brother is 15. And is slightly less delightful than she is.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But on this day at the park, he cracked a smile while riding the slide with his baby sister. Love. It.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Our kids are loud, crazy and a little obnoxious. But when it comes to "Rockstar" as we call her, they have a sweetness and gentleness with her that makes my heart sing. I will not worry about her when Brendon and I are gone. She has 6 other people who love her with a fierce protectiveness that brings me peace and joy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">We love you "Rockstar Riley-kins." You are the family secret-keeper. The one we all love best.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Please hop on over to the wonderfully talented <a href="http://serendipityphotographybycrystal.com/2013/08/09/10-for-10-august-edition/" target="_blank">Crystal Chabannes</a>for the next blog in our series. Thanks for reading!</span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-49452893652331482122013-07-10T11:59:00.000-05:002013-07-10T16:08:23.997-05:0010 on 10 {July}<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Summer so far:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I have officially broken out the calendar and started marking BIG, RED "X's" to countdown to the first day of school! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">(Oh, wait.... Am I the only one who does that? Hehe!!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Just kidding. My kids are only driving me slightly crazy. When they are not telling me how bored they are, or asking to play <i>Minecraft</i> for the 20th time, I try to find fun stuff to do. Here are 10 of my favorite images that show our summer days so far. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">That little tongue just kills me. LOL!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Time spent at nasty ole' Galveston Beach.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: large;">Being a mean mom, and making them do schoolwork over the summer.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I took a little time for myself and joined a local photography group for moms this summer. The women there are amazingly talented and a bit intimidating! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">We did a photo shoot and here are a couple that I took of our cute models. So fun!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I am linking up with some wonderfully talented ladies who are doing their own "10 on 10". Please hop on over to the fabulous <a href="http://serendipityphotographybycrystal.com/2013/07/10/10-on-10-july-edition-the-woodlands-tx-family-and-child-photographer/" target="_blank">http://serendipityphotographybycrystal.com/2013/07/10/10-on-10-july-edition-the-woodlands-tx-family-and-child-photographer/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Crystal does AMAZING work!</span></div>
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Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-14353569847002427162013-04-02T11:50:00.001-05:002013-07-10T12:06:07.274-05:00Autisim Awareness Day<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Our Riley was diagnosed with Phelan-McDermid Syndrome when she was nearly 3. After months of doctor appointments and hospital visits, we finally had answers to why she never spoke, walked so late, and all the other struggles she dealt with. It was a hard truth. Phelan-McDermid is a deletion of the q portion of her 22nd chromosome. It is an extremely rare condition that only 300 people worldwide have been diagnosed with. Since it is so rare, there is very little research available. It leaves her severely mentally impaired, unable to speak, and autistic. Since it is chromosomal, there is no "cure". Her diagnosis brought a level of despair I had never experienced before. I always joked that I was God's favorite child, because He had always blessed me so richly and given me every desire of my heart. Her condition rocked me and my faith to the very core. I cried for the ordinary dreams and the big dreams I had for her, the vision that "I" had for her life. She would never play video games, beg for a cell phone, argue with me over makeup, go to the prom, learn to drive a car, go on dates, football games, play sports like our other children. She would never get married, or give us grandchildren. She would never live independently and require care for the rest of her life. Dreams lost.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">After months of raging at God, crying everyday and feeling sorry for myself, I confronted my own sin. I had to readjust my own expectations and look at Riley as He sees her. She is His child. Her soul was crafted by Him, her very life brought forth for His glory. She is not perfect? Says who? She has an innocence and an unawareness of sin that I am envious of. She shrieks with happiness at the mundane. Her brothers chasing her, Daddy walking in the door, eating her beloved gummy snacks, playing with balls, and riding in the car. The simple, the everyday joys that are overlooked by most. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I had to find new joys, new dreams, new expectations. She will never be addicted to Minecraft (I'm looking at you Justin), no cell phone bills, no silly teenage fights or, drama (I'm looking at you twins!) no crashing my car (I'm looking at you Taylor) no stomping away in frustration over a lost ball game (looking at you Sam) LOL!! She is the daughter we will never have to "give away" in marriage, she will forever be our babygirl. Most importantly, and without a doubt, her eternity is held and secured by our Savior. I don't have to go to Him in prayer daily over her salvation. She is His. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It is still so very hard some days. When I see how independent and beautiful her big sisters are, I get a stab of pain. When I see other 11 year-old girls giggling over Justin Bieber, and clothes, I get that familiar ache. In those times, I know I am being "Me-centered" not "God-centered", I am having a short-term view of life and not an eternal vision. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">THIS life, in THIS body, on THIS earth is but a vapor. She is impaired HERE. She will be whole and complete in heaven. She cannot speak HERE, she will sing praises and shout His name forever in heaven. Her body is broken HERE. She will have a new and perfect body in heaven. She has taught me to have an eternal vision. To trust in the Lord for my own salvation, that I may one day join her in sky, to hear her speak, to know her thoughts, to be found worthy of her love. </span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-72853549560548994322013-04-01T12:54:00.000-05:002013-04-01T12:54:22.261-05:00The Pursuit of a Family Easter Picture<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Yesterday was a beautiful celebration of our Savior. I was one happy mommy to have all my babies under one roof. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Our church has a tradition for families to take pictures in front of a beautifully decorated cross after Easter services. Well, after a long day in Sunday school, and waiting in line to actually take pictures, Riley (our Silent Princess) was not feeling it! She had a seat on the ground. LOL! We ended up with this:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Not acceptable! So we head out and I yell at everyone to NOT CHANGE CLOTHES when we get home! We must try again. (um....I am slightly obsessive about my pictures!) I set up the tripod in our front yard and Riley decides she is not interested in a photoshoot and she runs away, so no Riley-Roo in this picture.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This time, Brendon bribes her with some Gummy snacks and he gets her to sit on his lap for a few seconds. Yay!! Our family Easter portrait is done! LOL....Only took yelling, running and a little bribery to get 'er done!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The grave is empty.....He is not here. He is Risen! Praise the Lord for His many blessings.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-3394250095736132742012-12-11T13:58:00.001-06:002012-12-11T13:58:46.699-06:00Official 2012 Christmas Photo<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Why does EVERYONE say, "Wow, this year has flown by?" um....they say it because it is TRUE! lol At least I got our picture in under the wire this year. I actually really like it. Christian's "mean-mugging" face cracks me up. </span><br />
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<br />Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-7954550107057389672012-11-01T09:19:00.000-05:002012-11-01T09:19:03.395-05:00Halloween 2012<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This little cutie was the "Joker" last night. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">After we got his makeup on, he went and looked at himself in the mirror and got scared! LOL</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">He is still my baby......</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QahPR_kNV5Q/UJKEs1bl04I/AAAAAAAAAYM/O_xFiCRhuJE/s1600/DSC_1609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QahPR_kNV5Q/UJKEs1bl04I/AAAAAAAAAYM/O_xFiCRhuJE/s640/DSC_1609.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-17615653290845972092012-10-25T09:59:00.000-05:002012-10-25T09:59:42.924-05:00First Date<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">When I was pregnant with our 4th baby, Brendon and I decided not to find out the sex. Since we already had 3 girls at that point, we decided we could only make girls and accepted our fate. LOL</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Well, imagine our surprise when sweet, little Justin arrived. It was the first time Brendon cried in the delivery room. (In his defense, I was screaming rather loudly during labor with our first, and he passed out cold, <u>literally</u>, when the twins were born! LOL)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">When Justin was two years old, he told me I would always be his "girlfriend". Well, that sweet, baby boy turned 14 before we knew it, and this past weekend he went on his first date to the Homecoming dance. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This was my favorite picture and it just tugs at my heart. His date is a sweet, beautiful girl, but I hope he remembers that I was his first love.</span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-42725766750816995032012-10-10T13:03:00.002-05:002012-10-10T13:03:42.828-05:00Wordless Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j66Qfv7JFmI/UHW4R9a2gHI/AAAAAAAAAWs/VhGESoXvMOo/s1600/DSC_0251.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j66Qfv7JFmI/UHW4R9a2gHI/AAAAAAAAAWs/VhGESoXvMOo/s640/DSC_0251.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Remembering how amaze-balls San Diego was last week. Sigh........ </span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-28635917220059064642012-10-09T10:34:00.001-05:002012-10-09T10:34:47.552-05:00Color Me Scrappy<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><a href="http://color-me-scrappy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Color Me Scrappy </a>is up with a new challenge. This month's palette is a wonderful, neutral color combo. I found it so easy to work with. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I chose my papers based on the colors, but as I design, I end up adding, subtracting, shifting, moving etc....so it never ends up like I pictured originally! lol</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I used some October Afternoon, Crate Paper, a bit of Lawn Fawn washi tape, Studio Calico wood veeners (obsessed with those!)some stitching and called it DONE! Pretty easy page, and only took about an hour start to finish.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The "Cherish" is a Cricut cut that I cut out a LONG time ago and never used. But it seemed to work here.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Now off to scrap the rest of the "First Day of School" pictures. </span></div>
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Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-3080921292870726652012-09-19T10:59:00.000-05:002012-09-19T10:59:17.322-05:00Wordless Wednesday: Just because he is pretty.<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Sigh.......</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-64348163972523022812012-08-27T10:48:00.000-05:002012-08-27T10:48:52.009-05:00"Buh-Bye Summer!"<br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There are no tears today. They. Gotta. Get. Out.!!!! LOL</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It has been a long, hot summer. I am ready for routine! And I am sure they are ready for me to quit yelling:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"> "7 hours of playing Minecraft is ENOUGH!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">"No, (insert random neighborhood kid name here) _______, can NOT spend the night again!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">"If you can't think of some way to not be bored, then you can go clean something!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Yeah, summer......its been real...but I think fall is definately my favorite time of the year! LOL</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Bye, guys.....mommy loves you. She really does! (now, where did I put that Margarita machine?)</span><br />
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<br />Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-26075632766141349812012-08-07T08:58:00.000-05:002012-08-07T09:13:38.477-05:00Summer 2012, Almost a Wrap!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"> A little bit of,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Some neighboorhood parties</span>,<br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Even happy, cooperative teenagers! (Ack!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Now we get to have one last "Hoorah", before school starts in a couple weeks. Our family is off to a cruise! The kids are so excited. Is it sad that I am most looking forward to the photo ops and making a vacation mini-album?! LOL</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I have been hoarding the Simple Stories 6x8 album for the perfect time, and this is it! I am going to use a bunch of papers from the Simple Stories "Awesome" line. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I am off to Pinterest right now to gather some ideas and inspiration for our travel album. Guess I won't be getting much housework done today, huh? LOL</span></div>
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<br />Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-11190078173974777982012-07-18T15:15:00.000-05:002012-08-07T09:12:36.730-05:00Happy<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Wow! It is certainly summertime, because I haven't been on here in forever. Main reason? My kids are home, ALL DAY LONG. (yes, I am shouting! lol)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I have been scrapbooking, and keeping up with my Project Life, just can't seem to get anything blogged. How do my favorite mommy/scrapping blogs stay current when kids are home? Y'all are amazing! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My favorite challenge blog, <a href="http://color-me-scrappy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Color Me Scrappy</a> has given me the perfect opportunity to catch up a bit.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The color pallette for this month was gorgeous!! And seemed to be the perfect outlet for the page I had in mind. I don't know about y'all, but I don't scrap myself very often. It feels.....I don't know.....self-indulgent or something? </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My little boy was playing with my phone, and caught this picture of me. It captured my happiness and contentment I felt at that moment perfectly. (even my 7 year old is a better photographer than I am!) I want my children to remember that their mom was a happy person. Of course I flip out, yell and threaten to sell them to the circus, but I hope they remember my smile, my sense of humor and how grateful and happy I am to be married to their dad and to be their mom.(which I said to them in my hidden journaling). </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Love, love that woodgrain paper, and I am completely obsessed with all of Studio Calico wood veeners (I may or may not have bought 6 packages...shh...don't tell my husband). I broke out my trusty Cricut (why won't that thing break so I can justify getting a Silhouette?) for my title.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Thanks for looking, and go make something pretty!</span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-17631540842298725532012-06-13T10:46:00.000-05:002012-06-13T11:01:06.689-05:00Color Me Scrappy<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I am once again linking up with the fun challenge blog, <a href="http://color-me-scrappy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://color-me-scrappy.blogspot.com/</a>. This month, we were given another beautiful color pallette to work with.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This layout showcases my twin "baby" girls, TJ and Alyssa. I pulled this picture from TJ's Instagram account. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My girls are such natural photographers. It takes me forever to line up a shot, set my settings, ect...They just whip out the camera and snap away.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I find it difficult to get pictures of them as much as I used to. At 17, they are just not at home very often. School, activities, jobs and of course, hanging out at the mall, take up alot of their time! But they have Facebook and Instagram accounts. I pull pictures of them from those sites all the time to scrapbook. I don't stress too much about pixels, image quality and all that. I just love getting a peak into their lives. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This layout came together so quickly. Once I started, it took me only 35 minutes from start to finish. The colors were so easy to work with,(and my 2 pretty subjects didn't hurt either! lol)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Thanks so much for looking!</span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-23732007559167118612012-06-06T08:48:00.002-05:002012-06-06T08:48:52.296-05:00Wordless Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">All-Star game yesterday. He is such a good dad. Doesn't miss practice or a game. Love them so much.</span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-37839849741627787182012-06-05T15:26:00.000-05:002012-06-05T15:26:35.786-05:00Didja know about this?!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I am a LOVER of podcasts. Driving, doing housework, and exercising always seems to pass by a little quicker if I am listening to a favorite podcast. I like a wide variety, Dave Ramsey, MacLife, and I may or may not have at one time downloaded a "Twilight" fan podcast....shhh....don't tell anyone! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My top 2 favorites for scrapbooking (yes, there are shows for scrapping!) are, <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><a href="http://www.paperclipping.com/" target="_blank">"The Paperclipping Rountable"</a> </span></i>(they have more traditional paper-based discussions), and <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><a href="http://thedigishow.com/" target="_blank">"The Digi Show"</a> </span></i>(marketed for digital-scrappers, but really, the topics are perfect for almost all scrappers). </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Now there is a new show to add to my iTunes library, <a href="http://thismemorykeeperslife.com/" target="_blank"><i>"This Memory Keepers Life"</i></a>. This is a wonderful podcast that features regular, non-celebrity scrapbookers. I immediately downloading the first 5 and listened to everyone of them. Love it!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So if you are as obsessed with scrapbooking as I am, here is another outlet for our passion! Hope you enjoy!</span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-35520363141413155762012-05-29T13:55:00.001-05:002012-08-07T09:12:36.736-05:00Color Me Scrappy<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Color Me Scrappy is up with a new challenge. This time around we were given this beautiful pallette to work with:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Pretty, right? Well, I knew I wanted to work with a picture of my little boy, and I was a bit worried that it would come off a little "girly"</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I grunged it up a bit with ink, and distressing the "jeans" type paper I used to mat the picture.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">There are a few feminine elements, but overall, I think it works. And with such a cute subject, how could I go wrong? (yeah, I am THAT parent) LOL</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Check out the fun ladies over at <a href="http://color-me-scrappy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Color Me Scrappy</a>. Thanks for looking and have a great day!</span></div>
<br />Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-17923043484280094292012-05-09T11:32:00.000-05:002012-08-07T09:12:36.732-05:00Mother's Day Inspiration<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Holy cow! It is May already. Anyone else feel like time is flying by?! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">During this busy month we celebrate my mommy's birthday, my mother-in-law's birthday and of course Mother's Day. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I was inspired by the talented Marcy Penner on the <a href="http://octoberafternoon.typepad.com/october_afternoon/2012/04/mothers-day-accordian-album.html" target="_blank">October Afternoon blog</a> to make these fun "Accordian fold" cards for my 2 favorite ladies this year. I know they will love them because they feature the most beautiful, smart and talented kids in the world. (ok, we may be a bit biased! lol)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Over at the <a href="http://color-me-scrappy.blogspot.com/2012/05/challenge-3.html" target="_blank">Color Me Scrappy blog</a>, they have a new challenge up. I thought their color scheme was beautiful, which is what led me to these papers. I threw in some pink, and I am really happy with how it turned out. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I am going to drop these in the mail today!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I am so grateful for all the wonderful inspiration that is out there. Have a blessed day and go make something pretty!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-21049348689858675872012-04-27T09:34:00.000-05:002012-08-07T09:12:36.733-05:00Thursday: Pictures and Words<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Since I have consistently been keeping up with my Project Life album, (just not keeping up with blogging it!) I didn't find it necessary to participate in Ali's <a href="http://aliedwards.com/2010/01/week-in-the-life.html" target="_blank">Week in the Life</a>. But I did like the idea of delving deeply into one day. So, yesterday was the day! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I stumbled out of bed at 6:50am for coffee, and to make my boys lunches. I usually make a salad for my big girls the night before. The high school starts at 7:15am, so they are up and gone by 6:30am, and I ain't waking up that early! lol</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">After everyone is off to school, it is breakfast time for me. Well....if you can call chalk breakfast! Oh well, that's what you eat when you have given birth to seven children and you have the metabolism of a slug!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">After I eat, I go start my housework. I begin in the little boys room. I usually require them to make their own beds, but we were running behind this morning, so I do it for them.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Then to the kitchen where I do dishes, sweep and take out chicken to thaw for dinner. Start a load of laundry, fold and put away a load, vacuum living room, straighten up our room, and make our bed.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">By now, it is 9:45am, so I go get dressed. Since I have errands to run, where I might see people I know, I put on makeup. lol </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Groceries, post office, car business, then off for a special treat.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Pedicure!!! While I like getting my toes pretty, what I LOVE is that massage chair. Bliss!!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Home, where I pay some attention to this cutie pie. Then before you know it, kiddos come home.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Evidence that they are all home. Am I the only mom who YELLS thru out the house to "Come throw your trash away!!" Why is that so hard?! : )</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I look down and discover he has been wearing these all day! Oh, what his teachers must think of me! LOL</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">A quick dinner, then we are off to Sam's baseball game, (my hubby helps to coach) then Justin's drum lesson. The big girls stay home to do their hair. (that is a 2-3 hour process. Condition, blow dry, straighten....it is hard being a girl!!) The whole family is home by 9pm. Everyone finally gets in bed by 10:30pm.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It was fun to capture our day more in-depth. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I took a TON more pictures, but pared them down into a manageble amount for this post. I plan on doing a multi-page insert to slip into Project Life, or maybe a mini-album to document this wonderful, ordinary day. (oh, the <a href="http://www.twopeasinabucket.com/shop/simple-stories/125865-documented-6x8-mix-match-album/?filters=_simple+stories_" target="_blank">Simple Stories album</a> would be cute, or even Heidi's new <a href="http://www.twopeasinabucket.com/shop/heidi-swapp/126731-no-limits-memory-files/?filters=_heidi+swapp_" target="_blank">Memory Files</a>!) </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Check out Ali's blog for more info on "Day in the Life". Fun stuff! </span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-1326726917969416242012-04-25T15:36:00.002-05:002012-08-07T09:12:59.750-05:00Color Me Scrappy<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I am once again linking up with the super fun blog, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;"><a href="http://color-me-scrappy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Color Me Scrappy</a>.</span> This time around, we are using this beautiful color palette:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I love the "tone on tone" look that has been going around a bit, so I thought this may be a fun time to try it out. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I don't think I have it just yet, but it was only my first time!! Don't judge me! LOL </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I popped up a few of the stars that I cut out of the same sheet of cardstock used for the background and lightly misted with Mr. Huey, "barnwood". I cut out my title with my trusty, OLD Cricut. (Calligraphy cartridge)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I am starting to become slighty obsessed with Challenge blogs lately. They are such a fun way to help break me out of my ruts and to use up my stash. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Thanks so much for stopping by, and be sure to check out the fun ladies at Color Me Scrappy!</span></div>
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<br />Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-15212421577457509802012-04-16T15:28:00.000-05:002012-04-16T15:28:42.720-05:00Feeling Nostalgic<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My "baby" is 6 and in the first grade. I went on his field trip today and almost started crying in the parking lot. All of the first graders in our district come visit this cute little farm, so this will be the last time I get to chaperone. Sigh......</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Just more proof that I am running out of children. Either one of my big girls needs to get married and have a baby QUICK, or I am running down to an adoption agency to get me another baby! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Nevermind, my husband would not want EITHER of those options! LOL</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I will just be content to look at pictures of my baby boy.</span><br />
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</span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-2391134664357763912012-04-04T12:29:00.000-05:002012-04-04T12:29:56.551-05:00Color Me Scrappy Challenge<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Today, I am linking up a layout to participate in a fun challenge over at <a href="http://color-me-scrappy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Color Me Scrappy</a>. It is a brand new blog, that hopefully, will get me to break out of my kraft and white rut! We were given a beautiful color pallet to work with.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I scrapped my two littlest boys having a fun day with my dear mother-in-law. She bought them lunch from McDonald's, and sat in a cafeteria full of loud, messy, and silly 1st and 2nd graders. She is a trooper! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It is a cloudy, yucky day here, so please excuse the poor picture quality!</span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Check out the Color Me Scrappy blog, it looks like fun!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-88990686080137604792012-04-03T07:00:00.004-05:002012-04-03T08:57:15.999-05:00Project Life March<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RlvDj8az8Sg/T3pa9iABG8I/AAAAAAAAALw/HrIlGTLLPW8/s1600/DSC_0635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="385" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RlvDj8az8Sg/T3pa9iABG8I/AAAAAAAAALw/HrIlGTLLPW8/s640/DSC_0635.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I have been a bit quiet on the Project Life front here on the blog, but I have been plugging away diligently at home. I love telling our little, day to day stories.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I scrap PL in 8.5x11. I use a WRMK album, and use whatever photo sleeves I find on sale! (I always check that it is acid free) I recently came across the Martha Stewart line of office products at <a href="http://www.staples.com/sbd/cre/products/martha-stewart-home-office/" target="_blank">Staples</a>. She has a great 4-pocket sheet proctector that I have been using alot. I love Becky Higgins products, but just could not justify buying anything, when I have such a big stash! </span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Above is the left side. I cut the "Spring Break" title from my trusty, little Cricut. I think I am still going to add a little "something". I don't know what, but it still needs something! LOL</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br />
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</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Used bits of Dear Lizzy, and Crate paper in this week's spread. My album is caught up thru March and is already bursting! So I intentionally used a couple pictures all alone to help cut down on the bulk. I don't want to use more than 2-3 albums for the entire year. I am linking up with Jessica Turner, and her website, <a href="http://www.themomcreative.com/" target="_blank">The Mom Creative.</a></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Well, I have a huge to-do list for the day, so I think I will go on Pinterest for awhile to delay the inevitable! LOL</span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-84764268539057541992012-04-01T14:15:00.000-05:002012-08-07T09:12:36.739-05:00Requisite Bluebonnet Photo Shoot<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I am from Maryland originally. I am not even sure what our state flower is. But after 10 years in Texas, I know for sure that Bluebonnets rule here! I have never taken our older kids for a photo shoot, so I figured I better get my two littlest guys before they get old enough to flatly refuse. </span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Aww!! Aren't they so sweet and adorable? Okay, don't believe the hype. LOL This is how most of the photoshoot went. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Sigh.....boys.....!! LOL</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5786455316158033429.post-63188292586257565912012-03-12T20:56:00.000-05:002012-08-07T09:12:36.738-05:00Daily Dozen Photo Challenge<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><i>I am joining in with <a href="http://elizabethkartchner.com/2012/03/08/daily-dozen-photo-challenge-03/" target="_blank">Liz</a> and her challenge to take 12 photos on the 12th!</i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><i>On the 12th, our family was driving home from a quick weekend getaway to the lake. So our 12 pictures came from an adorable little park off the main highway. I bribed my kids with a trip to Ihop if they cooperated with my impromptu photoshoot. (Notice their happy smiles. Who can resist pancakes! LOL)</i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><i>I took some with the Nikon and some with my <strike>best friend,</strike> iPhone. Hope you enjoy!</i></span><br />
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</div>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13673478942908803918noreply@blogger.com8