Scrapronicity

2012-01-15T11:27:00.001-05:00

...making some changes to my blog! See you soon! :-)

2011-05-17T15:52:00.001-04:00

My poor neglected blog. School is almost over and I'll be back...

OK...I'm back and getting scrappy!

2010-09-30T13:07:00.019-04:00

"School"...a dreaded word in my house. For some, school means freedom from the chaos, for me it means the chaos is about to begin! As always, I had high hopes for accomplishing projects this summer and as always I got little done. Having a busted thyroid didn't help and surgery helped even less...so, I have to give myself a break I suppose. In the meantime, I have to get my act together and start to create again or I will simply go INSANE! In an effort to juggle being Class Mom for two kids, Brownie Leader, Newsletter Chair, PTO member, etc., I thought this year I would make a date book JUST for school activities. I have a section for both Emily and Liam where I will write my class party shopping list, reminders, etc. I then added a calendar page for each day of the month, mapping out what needs to be done. Between each page is a clear, top-loading sheet protector that I'll use as a folder. I can add notices, etc. and then there's the folder at the end of the book for my class phone lists. I could have used a "normal" calendar but how much fun is THAT? This way I have something cute to carry from place to place!

WHAT I"M WORKING ON:

I'm working on cleaning my scrap space (as usual) and I'm also going to continue working on Emily's camp album from this summer. I actually used the same paper for that AND my new date book. Shhhh! ;-)

I want it ALL!!

2010-08-04T17:20:00.003-04:00

I want every scrappy tool ever invented. It's a sickness really. That said, what's the harm? I'm a stay-at-home Mom, I work hard every day and scrappy tools (as well as paper, embellishments, rub-ons, etc.) makes me HAPPY! When I'm happy, everyone is happy right?? ;-)

Here is my latest love...the i-rock tool from Imaginisce. Great products...great company. :) In the immortal words of Veruca Salt...I want it NOW!! :) :)

http://www.imaginisceblog.com/2010/08/i-rockin-12x12-leather-album-and-huge.html

Camp Albums....

2010-07-23T10:34:00.036-04:00

For the second year one of the scrapbook websites hosted a "camp" where they give you challenges and you can enter contests. Last year it was very small...this year it was huge! The prizes are based on chance, not skill, but I wanted to use the opportunity to get some projects done. I was actually able to accomplish something!

Each year I do a mini camp album for Emily. If I had known she would be there for five years, I may have done one big combined album...DUH! That said, some of my favorite albums have been her camp albums.

The first year I used a simple photo album and Cosmo Cricket paper (I love their stuff)

This was a fun project because I put each photo on the outside of the insert, forming a pocket between the front photo and the back photo. I had MANY photos that year so I printed all of them, added ribbon and then placed the extra photos inside the photo pockets with the ribbons sticking out (the little ink pad is only in there to keep it open for the photo-LOL)

The second year Liam was born the second to last day of camp (Parent's Day so I had only the photos my Mom took). Instead of doing an all Lindgren album, I did a summer flip-flop album.

Last year I decided to do a "tie-dye" theme because they tie-dye at her camp. I experimented using a clear, acrylic cover, alcohol ink and Spin-Art.

This year for my "camp" assignment I worked on the first three pages of this summer's camp album.

Artist Trading Cards

2010-07-01T13:49:00.010-04:00

In my scrappy little world, I've always known about "Artist Trading Cards" or "ATCs."These are little works of art designed on a piece of card stock the size of a playing card (sometimes people trade them...hence the "trading" in the name). Imagine my surprise when Emily came home with a few that she made in art class. I've always loved her art teacher...but THIS made me giddy! She made a few cards and was given a holder so she can continue to make some during the summer. I had a thought. Wouldn't it be fun to make a card for each holiday, with a photo to go with it? I happen to have an ATC holder (doesn't everyone??) and I wasn't sure what to do with it. Now I know and I'm excited! Last year, for no reason at all I made a ATC for St. Patricks Day. This will be the first card for my new project. :)
This weekend, I thought we would work on a few for July 4th. I gathered a bunch of themed card stock and some embellishments...I can't wait to see what we come up with. This is a simple and fun craft that I can work on with both of the kids!

What I've been doing...

2010-06-29T15:59:00.008-04:00

The past month has been a crazy time in my life. I thought things were supposed to CALM DOWN at the end of the school year! I guess not! Since I last posted I turned 40 and once again started a new 365 project. So far it's been fun and although I thought I would do less journaling this time around...I was kidding myself. I guess that's who I am so it is what it is!

I've been working on a few creative things during the last few weeks. The first ,was the quilt that I designed for Emily's teacher. Since I don't sew, someone else did the sewing but I chose the fabric, etc. I thought brighter would be better since it will hang in a classroom and Em's teacher is a hippie at heart. Tie-dye and peace signs are perfect!

I worked on a birthday book for myself. It's not quite finished but almost there! It started out as a kit which I switched around and made my own. It was supposed to be a "2010" year in review type thing but I made it a 40th birthday book instead.

I'm currently working on something for my dining room wall. I was hoping to get it done by Father's Day...but I didn't come close to finishing. :( Here is a sneak peek...I hope to finish soon!

Good-Bye 30's

2010-05-25T10:29:00.009-04:00

On May 25th, when I was 29, I don't recall analyzing the change that was going to occur. Yes, I was leaving my 20's and it was strange, but it was a bit more exciting. I was working from home (which I always loved), we had just bought our first home and we had no children. I was about a month away from getting my dog. Everything was still ahead of me. So, although no longer having a "2" in my age would be something to get used to, I felt good things were to come!

I sit here on May 25th, the last day in my 30's. The past decade included an amazing combination of adventure and joy as well as unbelievable sadness and loss. I have such mixed emotions. I know I should embrace this new chapter of my life with dignity and grace but there is a part of me that really wants to enter it kicking and screaming!! (Although I'm not sure this old lady has the strength for that). It's far more significant than I thought it would be and I just hope a week from now I wake up thinking, "eh, no big deal." In the meantime, in less than 24 hours what will be...will be. I will wake up like I always do. Get dressed like I always do. Help Emily get ready for school, just like I did today. Liam will have therapy (actually an evaluation is scheduled), I will clean and do laundry and attempt to do something creative for a moment or two. The world will keep on spinning and I'll spin right along with it. I just hope it doesn't spin too fast...spinning at my age can be quite nauseating. ;)

2010-05-20T17:16:00.003-04:00

I was on a creative roll and real life got in the way again. I've spent the past week working on a quilt for Emily's teacher, gathering up the materials and printing photos on fabric. I even made a mock version for the woman who is doing the sewing. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that everything will come out well. I did my best so we'll see what happens!

I'm happy to say that I will have a very creative weekend, as Emily and I head out to a scrapbook convention! We can't wait to have a girly weekend together where we can scrap and she can swim! We'll take one class on Friday and we are meeting up with some good friends to take a class on Saturday. I'll post class photos when we get back!

Tonight I'll continue working on my birthday album...so much to do, so little time!

Shirt Pillow!

2010-05-11T11:36:00.012-04:00

Creativity...day 7
I finally finished the third book for my Mom. Not the best, not the worst...I think she'll love it no matter what. :)

...day 8
I felt like concentrating on my birthday book today. I didn't get much done but it's a start. It's another Button Farm kit which means it will look great but take a long time to put together!

...day 9

Mother's Day. Today I did about 6 loads of laundry, cleaned Emily's room, then my room, then Liam's room. It was such a busy day in the house (so much to do) but I did promise Em I would make her a "shirt pillow." She has a really soft Hello Kitty peace shirt that she loves but it's too small. So, I just sewed the shirt together, stuffed it and voila...a new pillow!

...day 10

I did NOTHING creative today unless you count downloading photos from a school field trip! I went to the Museum of Natural History with Emily's class and came home EXHAUSTED. :( Wait! I also ordered some fabric for the class quilt we are making for her teacher. I know nothing about quilting so luckily I have some help. I did have to take photos of the kids, I'll have to print them on fabric, buy all of the supplies and figure out how to organize everything. I was also trying to come up with something a bit different since the quilts are done each year. I think I came up with something good and right up her teachers ally. Here is a tiny preview of the fabric...I went colorful since it will hang in her classroom. Shhh...don't tell, the theme is a secret!

Creativity...continued.

2010-05-06T10:31:00.018-04:00

I'm finding it difficult to sleep. OK, I always find it difficult to sleep but these days my brain is filled with projects. Although I know there aren't enough hours in the day, just the thought of doing something creative makes me giddy!! I must calm down though, I have to finish some "time sensitive" projects that I'm working on. Then, I'm free to continue the five pending projects I have on my desk!

26 Days of Creativity...day 3
On Sunday I began working on a third mini album for Mother's Day. I spent the night trying to kick up an unexciting mini album I started in 2007! I love blue and chocolate brown together so that's sort of saving this album in my eyes. So far, it's not bad but I'll need a few more days to really make this an album worth looking at!

...day 4

I was side tracked today to work on a project with my Mom. We are making some really cute cards...OK, I'm making some cute cards but originally it was her idea. I promised to work on this but I was in "Mother's Day mode" so it got pushed to the side. Today I was full of card creativity!

...day 5

I'm back to the mini album and inking away! I'm concerned that I won't get this done on time...UGH! I still need to print and add the photos which is often very time consuming. I'll get there but there's only a few days to go...

...day 6

Today I'll hopefully finish the CKC album. Right now I'm making the second, identical album for myself. I'll print out two sets of photos and pop them in. "On deck" I have a great album from The Button Farm. The original concept was for this to be a "year in review" type of thing. Instead, I'm making it a "40" album for my upcoming birthday.

Soup Sunday

2010-05-02T17:06:00.016-04:00

I love soup. I don't care if it's the dead of winter or the hottest day in the summer, I'll crank up the AC and sip some soup. I realized that for the past couple of months, I've been making soup on Sundays...today was no exception! Matzo ball soup once again but I decided to kick it up with some not-so-traditional veggies like string beans and broccoli. It's about 87 degrees today but you know what I'll be having for dinner! YUM!

26 days of creativity...day 2

Today I was working on a new book for Liam. My friend Marilyn put together an amazing scrapbook for her daughter that will help her learn the alphabet. They will choose a letter a day/week and focus on that letter with great paper and photos! For example, if I start with the letter "A," maybe I'll take a photo of Liam eating an "apple." That goes right on the "A" page! I love the idea because Liam LOVES pictures and has this strange obsession with the alphabet. I purchased a scrap line by K & Company called "Actopus to Zelephant" and it's ADORABLE! It comes with coordinating elements including stickers, chipboard pieces and some great flash cards. Today I loaded up my scrapbook with the paper I'll be using and began the title page.

Tonight I plan on working on the third (and final) book to give to my Mom for Mother's Day. This is from CKC 2007. It's a much smaller book. which is good because I didn't take too many photos that year! I have to admit, I didn't like many of my classes that summer but I chose this book because the theme was actually "scrapbooking." The colors are great and although it's a simple book, I know I can fancy it up a bit. I'll post more when I finish!

26 Days of 39

2010-04-30T20:43:00.030-04:00

Today is the first day of May (despite the date above this post) and the countdown begins. I have only 26 days until I turn 40. Oy Vey. I remember when my Mom turned 40 and I'm sure my young, sixteen year old brain thought that was old. Well guess what kid? That "old lady" is YOU! Wow. I've seen so many of my friends, my old classmates, my husband turn 40, yet I was sort of in denial when it came to me. Although I look around and see that 40 is clearly fabulous...I still have that not so fresh feeling. :( It's sort of like day old bread. Still good, not as fresh as the day before but not as stale as it could be. ;) Yep, that's it, day old bread.

I need a way to embrace the next few weeks in a positive way and filter out all of my anxiety. For me, creativity always cures what ails me. So, for the next 26 days I will do something creative each day, whether large or small, to "celebrate" the end of my thirties and welcome my forties. I can't say that I'm happy, but perhaps it will give me a sense of calm. :)

NSD

Today is National Scrapbooking Day (it started in 1994) and I will be celebrating with Emily as I've done for the past five years. I finally finished the CKC scrapbooks for my Mom and I even managed to finish a few of the class layouts. I'll probably never get actual photos in those layouts but it's still an accomplishment! Emily worked on her Crayola Crayon Factory book. We decided a "file folder album" would be fun for this project. It's a great way to display small projects and isn't as bulky as a large album. We ended up using a lot of staples which didn't bother Emily. It gives it a hand made feeling. Each page has a clear (transparency) pocket and a piece of sticky ribbon to border the top (we got that at The Factory store).

By the way...I know I need to start taking better photos. For me it's always an issue of time, so I take a quick photo so I can post. I need a really well lit area in my home to take photos. Better photography is definitely on my "to do" list...

Life Happens.

2010-04-29T14:34:00.020-04:00

I'm back! While I was away, I did a little spring cleaning and revamped my blog a bit. Now it's a bit more interesting and has more of a homey feeling. Of course posts would be nice right? Right. I never really liked the phrase "life happens." (although it doesn't bother me half as much as "get over it"...MAN that makes me cringe). It sort of sounds like a cop out..."eh, life happens, what can you do?" I guess I'm not that laid back. All of that said, when I was ready to blog again and I was thinking of why I haven't been here, so much swam through my head. I realized that I had many things residing on my plate...Theme Day at Em's school, Brownie meetings, the school newsletter, PTO, pick-ups, drop-offs, homework, Liam's therapy, tons of paperwork, laundry, taxes, bills to pay, clothes to switch, spring cleaning, daylight savings (I want my hour BACK), meals to make, and rooms to reorganize...just to name a few! Each day I wanted to blog. Each day I wanted to create something amazing. Each day I wanted to get lost in a project that would allow me a sense of "calm" (my word of the year) but...life happens. In most cases things (like those I mentioned) are more important than the things we really want to do (not that laundry isn't fun) and we end up going with whats practical. I think I have to learn to embrace life as it happens yet also find a way to carve out a tiny piece for myself each day. Yes, life happens but I reserve the right to alter it a bit. :)

A peek into the past couple of months...

Spain.

Our country for Theme Day was Spain. I spent the month of February working on projects to decorate our room as well as "souvenirs" for the kids. Thanks to my fabulous assistant, Ana, we got so much done! We made Spanish flag bookmarks (with faux leather), olive drink stirrers, metro cards, Euros, "El Corte Ingles "shopping bags", bull fighting pads with red pens and our hand made castanets. Each souvenirs had information on the back so the kids could learn a bit about the culture of the country.

Kindness.

One day, for no reason my friend Molly sent me a gift. She had been shopping in a craft store and saw some buttons that made her think of me...and she sent them. A random act of kindness that brought such a smile to my face! I LOVE these buttons and can't wait to use them in my scrappy projects. They are hanging right in front of me over my scrap desk. How grateful I am to have reconnected with such an amazing woman. Although we weren't very close as kids, she's one of the reasons evolving and becoming an adult is such a great thing. I'm glad I went to that darn reunion! ;) Thanks Molly! :)

Revolution.

I admit, I've been taken in by Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution! I've been inspired to cook more and use more fresh ingredients. I'm rethinking the way I feed my kids and trying to eliminate many of the processed foods that find their way into my freezer. It hasn't been as difficult as I thought it would be. Cooking is actually fun, it's the cleaning that I try to avoid!

WIP (Work In Progress).

Each year my Mom and I go to CKC (Creating Keepsakes Convention) and I choose one class project that I use for scrapping that years convention. I make one for me and one for my Mom. Well, no surprise, I'm a bit behind, so this year for Mother's Day I'm giving Mom three years worth of books! I just finished 2008, made from The Button Farm's "Random Musings" acrylic album. Next, is 2009 and I'm using The Button Farm's "Good Things" acrylic album. I still have to back track and pick something out for 2007!

Until next time...

2010-03-03T21:38:00.002-05:00

Each day I want to blog and each day I'm too busy. I have a sick kiddo on my hands and Theme Day to do for school. Luckily that's next Friday or I would have a nervous breakdown for sure!!

I shall return when the fever breaks and Espana is behind me...I'm ready to get back to the scrapping!

2010-02-01T19:58:00.007-05:00

It's not working...but I'll keep on trying.

Perspective.

2010-01-15T14:09:00.008-05:00

I've been rather out of sorts lately, there is too much going on that I can't control and it's driving me a bit insane. This is one of those times where I have to step back and really put things into perspective. After watching the news all week I know that no matter how challenging life is right now, I have so much to be thankful for. My thoughts go out to those that live in Haiti or have friends there. My heart breaks for them. No matter what this week brings for me I need to hold on to the good things and try not to sweat the small stuff. :)

Creating something...anything...always cheers me up. A few days ago, I needed some "comfort food" and for me that's matzo ball soup!

There was no school on Monday which leads to a stress free Sunday night. This photo is sweet. Liam was actually sleeping while Emily was totally faking it but it still made for an adorable moment!

The Fios guy was here ALL DAY yesterday as I proudly dumped Cablevision on it's tush. I knew the guy would need access to my office (main computer) as well as my laundry room (phone lines) ...but both rooms were embarrassingly messy. I spent over a week, day and night trying to organize my home. I was grumpy every step of the way until I finally put it in perspective. In the end I'll not only have my Food Network back (thanks Fios) but I'll also have a CLEAN HOUSE! Because of this, today I actually feel a bit better, calmer and triumphant because everything, at least for today, has fallen into place. :)

Calm.

2010-01-11T15:30:00.009-05:00

I'm trying to soak in my new word for 2010...I'm trying to feel it. I think I need to give it more time because I find it difficult to embrace "calm". That said, there is one way to feel calmer and that's with a clean house. No, I don't have a dirty house, but I do have a lot of "stuff." My garage is embarrassing but one of those places that no one sees...so I put that area on the cleaning back burner. Then there is the office and the laundry room. The laundry room is quite scary but again, it's a place that no one sees...or at least it's usually that place. Since I decided to dump Cablevision on it's...tush...I have Fios coming in on Monday. That's the good news. The bad news is they will have to get into the phone lines, which oddly reside in the laundry room. In addition, they have to get to our main computer which of course is in the office. So, I have less than a week for a major clean up. I hate being in a time crunch for anything but it WILL be nice to have these rooms under control. I'm starting with my office (and the large pile on the floor) then moving downstairs. At least by Monday evening I'll have an organized home AND the Food Network! Ah, I'm feeling calmer already...

I should add...although my "project" this week is cleaning, I did make a blueberry crumb cake last night...from scratch! Thanks for the recipe Martha Stewart. YUM!

My latest project...

2010-01-07T12:52:00.009-05:00

...has been for my Brownie troop. Today we'll start to decorate recipe books so the girls can earn a "Try-It." Instead of starting from scratch (as I always do), I found some adorable little scrapbooks at the "dollar spot" in Target. The book has a little window that I wanted to fill but the stamp I have is too big...so I found a solution...

I scanned in the stamp, re sized it and added the troop number using my graphics program. I printed several out on glossy photo paper, punched them out and added rhinestones...and there you have it! Today each girl will decorate their "title page" and a recipe page. In the end each girl will have a copy of fifteen recipes which I'll add to their books.

After my Brownie meeting, I'm actually going scrapping for a few hours (if I can stay awake). I haven't decided what project to work on, although it probably doesn't matter, I never get anything done anyway!

Happy Scrapping!

One Little Word...2010

2010-01-04T06:16:00.009-05:00

When the clock struck midnight on January 1st, my champagne glass was "half empty." While many look at the positive aspects of starting a fresh, new year (or a new decade in this case), I already had a giant lump in my throat. One minute in and I knew this year would be a challenging one and to be perfectly honest, I'm not looking forward to it.

I'm a worrier and I like to think of the "what ifs" way before things happen. It's an exhausting way to live, but that's how it's always been with me. Last night Liam was up at 5am (for no apparent reason) and I found myself going through my "stress list"...

I don't like the speech therapist they want to assign to Liam. I know she's the wrong fit but what if another isn't available?
Someone very close to me found out her cancer has returned. What if the surgery doesn't work this time?
I'm turning 40. I'm turning 40. I'm turning 40. Crap.
What if I NEVER lose this damn weight??
The therapists all want to place Liam in a full day pre-school program in the fall. I don't want to go along with this. What if I don't like the place...or the teachers...or the program? What if I fight and make the wrong decision?
What if Frank's show gets cancelled and he's out of a job...again?

As I was having my pre-dawn pity party, I decided check out some websites on my iPhone. My favorite "rock-stars" of the scrapbooking world are Becky Higgins (the brain behind "Project 365" and now "Project Life") and Ali Edwards. Ali introduced an interesting new concept a few days ago (well, it's new to me) called "One Little Word..." The idea is to choose a word to focus on throughout the entire year. A word that has the potential to make an impact on your life. This word should have meaning or be something you strive for. It will be a springboard for projects and inspirations for 365 days.

I think I need a word.

Several words came to mind...persevere, relax, serenity, breathe...but I needed something which will ground me. A word that will stop me for a moment and help me regroup. Then it came to me... "CALM". I like calm. The definitions are what sold me..."Make calm or still; "quiet the dragons of worry and fear"..."The state of being calm; peacefulness; absence of worry, anger, fear or other strong negative emotion." It's poetic.
What would YOUR word be?

Goodbye Holidays...

2010-01-03T01:20:00.004-05:00

Today, the closest thing I got to scrapping was taking photos of the project I'm working on. Instead of being creative, we worked on packing up the holidays. On the one hand, it's sad knowing the "cool" holidays (Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas & New Years) are behind us. On the other hand I'm sort of looking forward to things calming down for a while.

While Frank and Emily cleared off the tree, I spent some time cleaning out the holiday stuff we didn't need. Two giant garage bags later, and I felt like I actually accomplished something. Tomorrow I'll start working on my bedroom which has turned into a dumping ground for the past few months!

Tonight I went to the city to celebrate my sister- in- law's birthday...great meal...but now I'm pooped. I was out way too late. I'm a wimp! I came home at around midnight and to Emily who was still awake! She is still crying about the removal of the Food Network from our cable provider. I give them one week and then Fios, here we come!

Tomorrow we go back into the city to see Bye Bye Birdie. I suspect I'll get little scrappng done BUT I will finally pack up my scrappy little gifts. They are going all over... NJ, Upstate NY, North Carolina, Illinois and Mass. It took me a while but they will be sent this week! Yeah!

Until tomorrow... Have a happy, scrappy day!

Project..."Finish My Projects!!"

2010-01-01T11:50:00.009-05:00

Happy 2010! It's hard to believe a new year is upon us...and how I wish I accomplished more in 2009! That said, I successfully completed my "Project 365" which was an amazing experience. I must admit, life without taking a photo a day will be strange for a while but I have a plan.

Starting in May, 2010 I will launch (get a load of the lingo), "Project...Life at 40!" The fabulous Becky Higgins has put together another great kit ("Project Life") and I'm up for the challenge! I thought it would be interesting to chronicle my 40th year through photos and journaling. This means taking a "365" break...for about 146 days. Then, I'll be back. :)

In the meantime, I've decided to start off this decade with.."Project...Finish My Projects!!" Looking at my unfinished projects is getting old...and frustrating. So, I will use this opportunity (and this blog), to get some work done. Each day I'll post updates, hopefully with photos, of what I'm working on at the moment. I've wanted to do this for a while now but I wasn't able to accomplish both this blog and my 365. I have high hopes!

So, for my first entry, this is what I'm working on today...

I can't show the finished project just yet because I'm surprising a few people. Unfortunately, this should have been done days ago but I'm working on the finishing touches today.

Wishing you all a very happy, scrappy and healthy 2010!

Failing to multi task...

2009-12-27T00:00:00.002-05:00

This year has been full of challenges that I never expected. Although I've finished a project here and there, I thought I would accomplish so much more! For the 0 people that actually check in here from time to time, I DO intend to continue with this blog! My 365 project is almost complete and my time can be spent posting over on this side of Scrapronicity. My goal is to start another 365 type of project in May (to chronicle my 40th year) but until then I will try and work on the several...several...several unfinished projects I have on deck. I need to make 2010 my most creative year ever!

I'm hoping some of my 365 buddies with keep me company over here and I promise to entertain you as much as possible!

See you right after the holiday!

Jodi :)

I Want It All...

2009-10-04T09:58:00.008-04:00

Emily has been watching High School Musical 2 lately...apparently it's better than the first movie. ;) Although she is more of the Gabriella type, I'm more likely to hear Sharpay's songs over and over again..."I want it all" being one of them. As I listen I hear the words of a spoiled little brat yet I realize, I want it all too! I mean, I guess we all do. For me it's not about money and fame, it's about the ability to do it all. I want to wake up in the morning with enough energy to get through the day. I want to make sure my kids are happy and healthy. I want to have enough time to be the Class Mom and Brownie leader, PTO member and newsletter writer. I want to be an edgy, combat boot wearing Martha Stewart! I want to finish the 100 things I need to do in my house and the 100 scrapbooking projects that are unfinished (or not even started). Sadly, we can want it all but only have, well, some of it. ;)

Although I wasn't able to post last week, I actually worked on something! Frank turned 40 so I made him a "40 Things We Love About You" box! This is one of those gifts that you can make for anyone and it can be as easy or as complicated as you want to make it. It had 40 different pieces of paper, each containing a reason we love him. Some were from me, some from Emily and Liam...even some from the dog! Emily designed some of the paper and the inside/top of the box. It was fun to do and even more fun when he opened it...

Today I'm continuing to work on some gifts for some of my friends. Back in March I participated in a "I'll make something for you" Facebook gift giving extravaganza! LOL I make something for 5 people, each of them make something for five people, etc. Well, I finally started and without giving too much away, here's a sneak peek...

Trying to organize my life...

2009-09-10T12:44:00.003-04:00

In theory I would like to post here more often. With the end of summer and school starting I fear my projects will once again collect dust. :( So, in an effort to keep sane this school year, I've decided to get organized with my schedule! Between Liam's therapy, his playgroup, picking up Emily and dropping her off and her art class, I'm keeping busy. On the other hand, I hereby declare Fridays...scrap day! My plan is to work on a project...any project...and blog that day. Chances are I won't have finished projects but I'll just post what I'm working on. I do hope I fit more scrapping in throughout the week, but for now...I have a plan! Meanwhile, a few days ago I found a Wonder Bread container and Emily was excited to use it for her sandwich each day. Only a scrapper would be irked by the fact that this container was so boring. So, my dear Em found a surprise in her lunch bag the next day... rub-ons make me happy. :)

The party is over!

2009-08-02T23:44:00.008-04:00

I cannot believe another convention is behind me...I'm already looking forward to 2010! I had an amazing time and took some terrific classes. This year it wasn't the quantity (since I usually take more) but the quality. I actually learned a lot which honestly doesn't always happen! I still haven't unpacked and as usual none of my projects are finished but I don't care! I had a blast . :)

I won the Paper Crafts contest again this year which is always nice! There weren't many entries which is sort of sad but there isn't much insentive to enter to be honest. :( The prizes are really lame (I hate to sound ungrateful but they are so blah) and I've never heard of anyone getting published with a convention layout/card. Oh well, for me it's the fun of doing it so I figure, why not? Sadly my card will not be returned so I'm glad I have the photos. I made a similar "tie dye" for the CK Camp contest and won that too! (After seeing "Hair" on broadway in May, I sort of find myself in a "hippie" phase at the moment-LOL) This birthday card was made using a clear piece of acrylic, alcohol ink and my daughter's "Spin Art" machine. I was amazed that it worked so well!! As far as submitting to CKC, I think this will be the last time but I certainly won't give up on other contests. :)
I'll post some convention photos when I actually get something done...I hope to do some scrappy work this weekend! :)

Follow my Twitter...

2009-07-30T18:41:00.002-04:00

...while i'm at CKC PA! So far just relaxing & looking forward to tomorrow! Love the shirts this year...have a pic on my Twitter. :) One says "it's all fun and games until someone loses an eyelet" HA!! I love that! My Twitter name is Scrapronicity...

CKC PA...Here I come!

2009-07-29T12:22:00.002-04:00

Working on my submission for CKC. As usual I did something that I didn't like and had to start again. I annoy myself! Below is a small sneak peak...what will it be? I'll never tell. ;) Not sure if I can go "three for three"...we'll see what happens. In the meantime, I must go pack and get ready for the weekend. So much to do and so little time!!

WOW...I won!

2009-07-27T16:02:00.010-04:00

I won a CK contest this week which is so exciting! I participated in their "CK Camp" last week and entered one of my projects and won. I think Emily is even more excited than I am since she knows she'll be sharing our winnings. :) I'm so grateful to have a mini-scrapper in this house!

So...I started working on my "9-11" project last week. My journaling is done...on note paper that is, I just have to transcribe and encorporate it into the album. I had a "vision" of what I wanted to do for the cover. This is a photo I found seven years ago, I mounted it on cardstock and then sanded the edges a bit. I'll have a piece of cardstock behind it or patterned paper but I'm having a hard time deciding what to do! The title will be "Reflections of 9-11" so the reflection of the buildings seemed so appropriate. I'll post the final project to my Creative Reflections of 9-11 blog. Part 1 is finished with several parts to go....

So here is something funny...last week I ordered something called a "Munny" doll. I saw it on Martha Stewart months ago (when Rosie O'Donnell was on) and it's cute and crafty. I ordered two white ones for myself, a pink for my daughter and a little Munny in a car to design for my son. (they should get here on Wednesday). Ah, the funny part... I'm following Michael Urie's Twitter, he's from Ugly Betty. He posts a photo today from the set, explaining that they are using "cute, creepy, alien baby statues" in the "tube" on the "Mode" set. I open up his photo and not only do I see my favorite little Munny's...I see in the back left, my husband Frank working away! It is out of focus but after 19 years together, I guess you just know someone's head, even from far away! ;) Munny's and Frank. :)

Liam's 1st birthday book...DONE!

2009-07-23T14:00:00.009-04:00

Just in time for his second birthday. ;) I finished another project and I feel triumphant....such a great feeling! Once I was done, I had a bit of a dilemma. In theory, you hang the album as a banner at the party and then bind it together to make the book. What I didn't take into account were all of the extra pages I added (with embellishments). I just looked at the thing and knew I was in trouble! How does one bind this monster? Ribbon came to mind but I quickly realized that ribbon is too flimsy and it would be difficult to hold the book. I considered a binder but that wouldn't work either. Finally I remembered the GIGANTIC binder rings I had. What exactly does one do with these huge rings? Bind a bulky, triangular birthday book...that's what! ;)

Yes...I'm working!

2009-07-12T23:41:00.008-04:00

Each day I attempt to do a little something to try to get ahead. Let's face it, that will never happen but it sounds nice doesn't it? ;) As I've mentioned in the past, I have an amazing way of starting a project, not finishing and moving on to something else. I'm not exactly sure why I do this...but I do! I'm guilty once again because I've put other projects aside to work on my son's birthday book. Liam will be two in August and I've yet to finish his first birthday! While at CKC (Creating Keepsakes Convention) last summer in PA, I purchased a really cool banner album from The Button Farm. Angela put together the basics and I sort of ran with it. Each "page" is chipboard, some have letters on them (spelling "BIRTHDAY"), some have fun chipboard shapes and others have been signed by the party guests. I'm currently adding photos to this project which is proving to be a challenge! Each page is a triangle and although my first "vision" was to have triangular photos, that's not as easy as it seems. Why add a photo if an entire section is cut out? So, I went square and rectangular, working with what I have. Although it may seem odd, it's actually working out nicely, giving me a more fun, angular book! Here's what I have so far...

In addition to this, and the many projects I have on the backburner, I've decided to do work on something new. This is different however and I'm sort of hoping I'll get others to join me! It's my "9/11" project and you can read all about it here...Creative Reflections of 9/11
Are you up for the challenge? :)

Neglected!

2009-06-15T23:17:00.017-04:00

This poor, quiet blog! I hope to get on here more this summer and post photos of what I'm working on. I plan to accomplish a lot...but of course I always do. ;)

I started working on a "Great Wolf Lodge" album and only finished the cover. Unfortunately other albums pushed their way through (see below). The paper on the side is actually a photo of the bathroom wallpaper...I thought it was kind of cool and fun. I printed it out on simple, white card stock and will use it through out the book.

Before I could continue with that album, I had to start a project for Emily's teacher and I promised my Mom I would make an album for her best friends 65th birthday. I've known Barbara for years and I wanted to make something special for a party she is having. I added a few family photos as well as many quotes (she loves quotes) and the rest will serve as a "sign in" book for the party. My Mom took photos of each guest (there are 12) and they will sign their page. I also left blank pages in the back for any additional photos. This project only took a few days (which is rare for me) and it was fun to make. I used a Bo Bunny "HAPPY" word album which I sort of trimmed down to fit my Making Memories scrapbook. It's like an album within an album! She likes neutral colors so I used Basic Grey "Urban Couture"...I'm just in love with those papers but I admit, it was difficult to cut into them! That's OK, I ordered more the next day...HA!!

I finished the teachers album the night before the last day of school...talk about getting down to the wire! After I took the photos, I decided to lose the giant green binder rings and replace them with smaller, red rings (it looked so much better) I also have some fiber on the clips in some of the photos. I decided to go without that. I just wasn't in a ribbon mood for this project. I used a pocket album from the "BE" line from Creative Imaginations...the same album I am using for the Great Wolf lodge. Unfortunately, once I got all of the paper and photos in, the album started ripping at the binding. Instead of going into a panic I decided to be creative. I simply detached all of the pages from the binding and made it something a bit different. This is why I needed those binder rings. ;) In the end it was a good decision allowing me to make the book "chunkier" and I didn't have to worry about her breaking the book. :) All-in-all it's a fun little book...nothing complicated like last year. I didn't have many photos this year so I filled up the sliding pockets with a lot of teacher quotes. I didn't go with the school papers this year, I did that for the book last year (Emily has had her teacher for two years). I fell in love with this line from Making Memories and decided to go with this instead.

Now school is over and in theory, I should have more time to scrap. I'm off to work on a small birthday album...more like a giant card really...for my Aunts 60th. I'm going to do another "Happy" album, they always seem to make people smile. :)

Ready for a change...

2009-05-07T00:37:00.012-04:00

I'm ready for school to be over. Ready to sleep later...ready to be less tired, less stressed and less busy! I'm ready to get my house in order and clean out my scary garage. I'm ready to get some projects done. :) I've actually finished a few things lately which makes me want to do MORE! I went to a fun scrap class at my friend Marilyn's last week and started working on my Hershey Park album. My intention was to continue with that book but I was sidetracked and purchased an AMAZING Chatterbox butterfly album. I figured I would bring it home and stare at it as I often do...instead I decided it would make the perfect Mother's Day gift! :) This was not a kit, it was a butterfly scrapbook with transparencies and paper...I added the rest. This didn't take long but I know it will be appreciated and I loved making it!

PS. I'm thinking of changing the look of my blogs...I'm bored with the layouts!

Life Happens...

2009-04-19T23:47:00.022-04:00

I had a plan, I would have a second child. That took four years. Then there was the pregnancy and all the fear that came with it. Then the sleepless first year. In August of 2008 Liam would turn one, the clouds would disappear and the light would shine through right? Then it was MY year! Finally time to concentrate on my weight. Finally time to hang out more with Emily. Finally time to scrap more. Finally time to breathe a sigh of relief! Yep, in theory it was finally my time. But...life happens....and it's never perfect. Right now I'm learning how to balance my life and keep my sanity. For me, scrapping IS sanity...so my goal is to accomplish a little something each day.
This week I actually finished TWO projects! The first should have been done a couple of years ago. ;) I had posted about the Cosmo Cricket TSV from QVC. I finally dove into that amazing kit and started putting some things together. I'm still working on the photo cube but my "LOVE" banner is done!
I've also been working on a set of word cubes. I put some oddly shaped shelves in my dining room and they were itching for these little blocks!

That's it for now. This Saturday is "National Scrapbooking Day" so my daughter and I will scrapping all day. She looks forward to it every year but is disappointed that there are no shows on QVC! It won't matter, we always have fun. She wants to work on book with her and her brother and I quote "Mom, can I use some of the photos you have used in your 365?".. Ah, 7 going on 27. ;) My plan is to start working on the 365 album and work on a Hershey Park album as well. Enjoy the day!!

Too Busy!!

2009-03-17T16:02:00.003-04:00

Such a cruel joke. I finally get my 365 kit and I've been SWAMPED over here. Between sick kids, the school newsletter (and school stuff in general), Liam's therapy, Emily's gymnastics and Daisy's, appointments and well, LIFE! I haven't had time to finish anything. I'm working on a few things right now and STILL cleaning my scrap room...oh the horror! Everything looked great and then I decided to get a new desk for Emily. I put that together yet the old desk remains in the middle of the room! Oh man! To add to my insanity...on Facebook I decided to "make something" for five people...well now it's seven. ;) I love the idea so I'm excited to do it. That said, why can't I just make a quick little something? Nope, not me! Without giving anything away, I decided to do a cool project using a Maya Road "coaster" chipboard album (well, seven chipboard albums). I really like all seven people so I don't mind taking the time! Two people are making something for me, so I'll get surprises as well. :)

I'm off to *try* and get more than 5 hours of sleep!! More soon!

365...here you come!

2009-03-04T22:52:00.003-05:00

I received this e-mail today...

This email is to inform you that we have received your order for the following items. We will be sending your order via UPS Ground. If you have any questions concerning your order, please contact our Customer Service Department by phone at 1-800-453-1173 or email to CreatingKeepsakesCS@Holdenmss.com

No WAY! I think I'm actually getting the darn Project 365 kit..I'm in SHOCK! Of course I won't believe it until the package arrives. At this point I would have paid for 2nd day air but let's face it, I've waited this long, what's a few more days?

I'm still plugging away, working on my projects. This week I dove into an old QVC kit. Last February I bought the Cosmo Cricket papercrafting kit. It's actually really cool, despite the lack of instructions! I'm working on the "LOVE" banner at the moment and I hope to do the cube soon. As usual I start something and it takes time to finish it. I also have to add photos to that Lisa Bearnson 4 album kit. AHH...I need more hours in the day!! I'm also making progress on my scrap room...I'll post pics of everything as I finish. :)

Working on projects...

2009-02-21T00:39:00.003-05:00

I started cleaning my scrap room last week...it's a daunting task. I was actually making a dent when my daughter wanted lunch...and my son...and then diaper changes...turning on movies...the dog needed to go out...then it was 5pm. Needless to say, it's been a week and the dent remained a dent...and here I sit hoping to get something done this weekend. Something good came out of my half cleaned room however. I was able to look at what I had and finally decide to finish MANY of the projects I have started. I FINALLY got my Flip Flop done which is such a load off of my mind (I will post photos tomorrow). Now I have to work on my unfinished CKC projects (I finally finished one, there is a photo on day 51 of my Project 365) and the MANY kits I have. Back in December of 2006 Lisa Bearson had a great kit on QVC. It was a "Year In Review" with four scrapbooks, each one delivered at a different time of year. I finally got those books together and it took longer than I thought! I still have to add the photos but just finishing something felt like an accomplishment. As I was patting myself on the back my daughter wondered in asking what I was doing. I showed her the books and all she could say was..."Mom, KITS?? You never use kits...will you still make it your own"? Yes, my 7 year old knows me so well! It's difficult for me to give myself over to the kit BUT I've learned that if I do in fact "make it my own" in some ways, the kit can be an amazing thing!

Tagged!

2009-02-14T11:49:00.006-05:00

Ah, it's my first time getting "tagged" on my blog! OK, Carol...here you go!

I'm supposed to:

(1) Say one nice thing about the man in my life . . . Frank...we have been together for over 18 years...my college sweetheart. He has helped me through some rough times. He is sweet and funny and loving. We haven't seen each other much for the past 6 months, his job keeps him so busy. That said...he is still an amazing husband, father and friend and I love him more than words can say! Oh wait, that's more than "one nice thing". ;)

(2) List 6 ways you measure success in your life . . . This is a strange question. I think "success" is in the eyes of the beholder! I think carrying on a relationship for 18 years is successful...raising two amazing children....having a job that lasts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (and still standing)...having a close relationship with my Mom and brothers...being a wife, daughter, mother, sister, friend, doctor, shrink, artist, teacher, musician, chef, keeper of the peace and housekeeper. Yep, I'm a success! ;)

Fun with Blocks!

2009-02-10T21:40:00.011-05:00

I know I don't post here enough...I guess I'm not sure if anyone is reading! Well, I was waiting to post photos of my new and improved scrap room. Unfortunately, there has been a set back in the form of a double ear infection! Liam is sick so my room remains in shambles. If nothing else, it will have wait until the weekend. In the meantime, I can share a little project I made....

My friend Tracy has an amazing little boy named Eamon. (I dedicated one of my "365" posts to him Day 34). Eamon celebrated his second birthday and I decided to make him a gift. A while back I purchased some small, square, wooden blocks (they are sold at Oriental Trading Co.) and I finally decided what I would do with them!

Side1: Photos of Tracy's three kids

Side2: Phrases as well as a Happy Birthday wish and the date of his birthday

Side3: Quotes...a couple are my favorite and a few are Tracy's favorite

Side4: EAMON spelled out in chipboard

Side5: Various words such as "Love", "Hope" and "Faith"

Side6: Different textures such as fuzzy, rough, soft, etc.

I know this isn't a toy but I really wanted to give him something from the heart....and it was so much fun to make! :)

Alcohol Ink...

2009-01-30T12:54:00.024-05:00

It's been a while but I'm back, I've been giving my "365" blog far more attention! I love alcohol ink and I have about 27 bottles. I haven't used it much but I found a couple of cool things to do so I thought I would share...

I have a ton of Heidi Swapp's "Ghost" shapes and letters. Although my son is 17 months old, I'm still lacking in "boy" scrapbooking products. I decided to ink a clear star and I love the way it came out! I chose a blue, a green and an orange color ink and dabbed each color on one at a time. It still looked transparent so to give it a more opaque look, I added a bit of white acrylic paint on the back. I found another interesting use as well. I'm working on a birthday card with a small, slide mount shadowbox. I wanted to add two very small rub-on butterflies. I transfered the rub-on to a transparency but then of course they were difficult to see. Using Tsukineko "fantastix", I painted on a tiny bit of gold alcohol ink...it gave it the pop it needed. I also colored in a dress rub-on. You can really see the difference between keeping it plain and using the ink!

Making a 365 kit...

2009-01-23T09:14:00.004-05:00

I received an e-mail yesterday confirming that I'll be getting my 365 kit. Unfortunately it won't get here until mid-February so I'll definitely play catch up for a while. All of that said, I recruited my friend Lusya to take the challenge with me and she is doing great! She's just getting into scrap booking and loved the idea of this project. Of course I only ordered one kit, which as so many people know, was hard enough to get! I often order extra and then I'm stuck (I have extra school kits and expansion kits) and this time thought I would be "good" . Darn!! Instead of waiting to see if they will make more available (and who knows when that will be) I'm making a kit for my friend. I purchased an American Crafts 12x12 D-Ring cloth album (they also make leather and even corduroy) and We R Memory Keepers 4x6 photo sleeves (25 in a pack). The album is from Ritz Camera (which is running a 20% off sale until the end of January) and the page protectors are from Scrapbook.com . In the next couple of days I'll attempt to print the journaling cards whch were provided by Becky Higgins and we'll see what happens. I'll post photos of my progress just in case there is someone out there that wants to put one together!

Hope

2009-01-19T22:31:00.007-05:00

I love three day weekends, that extra day takes the edge off the rest of the week. That said, I think this should have been a four day weekend. It would have been fantastic if Emily could see the inaguration tomorrow. When you can witness history being made you need to cease the moment! Yes, school is important but life's lessons are important as well and I think this is a great lesson. We had a long conversation today about Martin Luther King Jr. and why this inauguration day is so special. Em understood as much as a seven year old could understand, and sighted "Hairspray" when I explained rights and equality. I know that's a musical...but it had an important message...and she was paying attention. :) We are entering a new phase in this country and I am getting on the "HOPE" bandwagon. I hope things get better, I hope we move in a positive direction, I hope we feel stronger...I hope our new President will stay as calm, cool and collected as he appears to be. I have faith in him and I wish him all the best as he jumps in with both feet. In less than 24 hours Barack Obama will be our 44th President and I look forward to watching him take the oath of office. Although my daughter will be in school, my Tivo is set and I'll happily watch it again with her so we can share and discuss this historical experience.
(a friend of mine told me about this website http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fobamiconme.pastemagazine.com%2Fentries%2Fnew.html&h=a31992173cdc283ca8131a5e731c9aa8 where you can set up that poster. I thought it was cute and gave it a try. I then realized that this is the only photo I have posted of myself so far...so yes, that's me...maybe I'll post a more traditional photo soon) :)

This is why I scrap

2009-01-15T18:55:00.007-05:00

You never know what the day is going to bring. This morning while heading to school we were slipping and sliding on the road. As I turned the corner there were two cars and honestly, this was an accident about to happen. I gently hit the break and headed right back home. There was no way I was risking the lives of my children...or their mom. It just wasn't worth it. We hung out at home, warm, safe and sound. At about 3ish I was listening to the radio and they mentioned that a plane had crashed into the Hudson River. My first thought was that it must be a tiny plane right? It wasn't. It was a commercial plane with over 150 passengers!! I could not believe my eyes when I saw a GIANT plane in the water. (I found this photo on Yahoo). Amazingly enough they are reporting (as of 7pm EST) that all of the passengers, including an infant, survived. UNBELIEVABLE!!

When those passengers got up this morning, they had NO IDEA that they would go down in a plane. They were lucky. When I got up this morning I had no idea I would slip uncontrollably on the ice and almost crash my car. I was lucky. You just never know what will happen. Each day really is a gift and we have to appreciate what we have (I KNOW that's not always easy). This is why preserving memories is so important to me! I want my kids to take the journey of their childhood through my books and projects. I want them to see who they were and what they were doing. I want them to see how much they were loved, not only through my words and actions but through my photos and journaling. It's so important that I do this because you just never know what the day will bring .

Hi, I'm Jodi and I'm addicted to kits!

2009-01-13T09:45:00.007-05:00

When I first started scrapbooking I HAD to do everything on my own. 12x12 albums, nothing "mini" and I never even considered buying a kit. Well, I still love to scrap BUT the amount of time I have has changed. Not to mention the fact that kits have come a long way. So now, in addition to my paper, rub-on, ink and embellishment addictions, I can't stop buying kits! OK, in my defense, I do pick and choose carefully. For the most part I gravitate to the CK Kit of the Month (despite the insanity over there, they do have some great stuff) and once in a while a QVC TSV. My "to-do list of projects is enormous and triple the size of what I listed. I'm also embarrassed to admit that I rarely finish the CKC projects from the conventions...even though I often love my classes. I still have a few from two years ago! Oh well, I do love being surrounded by my scrappy things and I at least the thought of getting something finished. I'm hoping this blog pushes me to stop obsessing and helps me to get something done. Probably not, but it's worth a try!

(so many kits/unfinished projects...so little time)

Riddle me this...

2009-01-11T14:20:00.006-05:00

...my credit card was charged for the Project 365 kit...but no UPS notification! Hmmm. I was told I would be in the "second wave" of orders and my name is definitely in there. Since so many people only ordered one kit but were charged for more, I suspect a lot of inventory was replenished on Friday. That said, charge or no charge, I have no idea what will happen. In the meantime, I am moving along as if I'm *not* getting the kit. I have a plan of action and in addition to my own kit, I'll make one as a gift for a friend of mine. I'm not sure if anyone will read this BUT ritzcamera.com has a great sale going on right now. I got American Crafts 12x12 cloth D-ring albums for $13.59! (they are on sale through January). I also ordered my We R Memories 4x6 page protectors from Scrapbook.com...I'm thinking they will sell out so I wanted to get my hands on some. :) One more thing...kudos to Becky Higgins!! She is a stand up woman and no matter what is said, she is cool in my book. She posted digital versions of her Project 365 kit today...that's so helpful and she didn't have to do it...but she did. Mine is already downloaded.

I'm off to take advantage of a sleepy baby and a semi-quiet household. Working on my flip-flop...I'll post photos when I'm done!

"Nutmeg" lives!

2009-01-09T14:10:00.004-05:00

Friday is finally here, I thought this week would NEVER end! I'm completely exhausted but I have high hopes for a creative weekend. I've made an executive decision, this weekend...we scrap!! I made some progress on my flip-flop and want to keep the momentum going. I must move onto the next project!

Speaking of which, for anyone following my Scrapronicity365 blog..."NUTMEG" lives! On day 7 I had a photo of a broken ceramic canister (it was very old and belonged to my grandparents). My painters broke it and as upset as I was, I vowed to put Humpty together again! I'm proud to report that I was successful. Unfortunately, there was a piece that was missing but I'm grateful that the rest were there. It may not look perfect but it's good enough for me. I suspect my grandmother was watching over me and *not* allowing it to smash into tiny, unsalvagable pieces. (Oh that large crack running down the front was already there...so I think it looks pretty good).

Life is too short...

2009-01-06T18:36:00.003-05:00

...to sweat the "small stuff". Yes, we have all heard that but do we believe it? Do we sweat anyway? I admit, there were many times I was guilty of worrying about the little things. Then I lost my dad...and struggled with infertility...and watched as two gigantic towers in New York crumbled to the ground. On any given moment I can turn on CNN and see some one's house wiped away by a hurricane...or a fire...or a tornado. I can watch men and women lose their lives for our country. I can go on and on but the point is, these are really big things and far more important than many of the small things!

OK, I got on my soap box because there are a lot of people freaking out about the Project 365 kit. I totally respect the fact that people are upset, it was a complete disaster. That said, I have chosen to breathe in with the good and out with the bad. ;) I'm frustrated too because I thought mine would be in the mail...apparently that isn't the case. Instead of stressing out I have decided to join so many others who are proceeding with this project on their own. In fact, I have created a "sister site", scrapronicity365, so I can blog the project while still working on my other posts/projects here. I have already stumbled upon some great blogs which I plan on following and I'm trying to recruit some of my friends to join me on my journey. This is a project that's worth doing, with or without a kit!

(By the way, once in a while the "small stuff" CAN be important. One of my favorite quotes is..."Enjoy the LITTLE things in life, for one day you'll look back and realize they were the BIG things". Food for thought...talk amongst yourselves...) :)

Project 365

2009-01-04T15:45:00.002-05:00

Becky Higgins (a biggie in the industry) had this idea. Take a photo a day with a bit of journaling for an entire year. Just a photo and a journaling block and that's it. She even put together a kit that went on sale Jan. 1st. As usual, it sold out in about 2.2 seconds! (I thought I purchased one but it looks like I was stuck in the evil CK ordering vortex. They need a system that doesn't crash). So, although I probably will not get the sold out kit, I am completely intrigued by the concept. For some reason, this doesn't make me sweat like the Stacy Julian method (see my post below)! I admit, it seemed like a daunting task at first but how bad can it be...and won't it be worth it? The beauty here is it doesn't necessarily have to contain just photos of your family, etc. You can use a concert ticket stub or take a picture of an object. For example, my brother and SIL took me by surprise yesterday and dropped off some paella they had made. It was such a great gesture since they know I LOVE paella and they don't live around the corner. Ah...day 3...surprise paella in a plastic container!

I will start my own "Project 365" using the concepts explained in the kit. Here is a link so you can understand the idea... Project 365. When I begin to make my own kit I'll post photos. In the meantime I'm taking the pics and jotting down my daily journaling in a notebook.

This really isn't as scary as it seems, in fact it will most likely take minutes to accomplish. I hope to get some people to join me...I would love to know what YOU are doing with it! I'm really looking forward to this long and interesting scrap book journey. :)

Ideas are easy...

2009-01-03T16:24:00.003-05:00

...it's the execution that's difficult! My head is FULL of ideas but once I sit down and try to accomplish something, my brain stalls. It's so frustrating. I wish I could just place a photo in a book, jot down a few details and be on my way. This summer I took "Finishline Scrapbooking" with Stacy Julian at the Creating Keepsakes Convention in PA. The concept is interesting...don't concentrate on the layout, concentrate on getting the photos down on the paper, Cut your photos...don't analyze where you put them or what embellishments will go with them. Go from page to page...do NOT look back! Here is your book...and some paper...and a time limit... just get it done..."GO"! What? Huh? NO WAY! I sat examining my photos, refusing to cut haphazardly, refusing to slap any piece of paper on the page...I simply couldn't do it! My friend Kim was sitting next to me, a witness to my (semi) silent nervous breakdown. It just wasn't going to happen and here I sit with the project in a baggie, five months later.

That night I realized something. I realized that I'll always have a "to-do" list. I realized that there will never be enough hours in the day to accomplish what I want. I also realized that I LIKE staring at a blank piece of paper or tin or chip board cover and thinking of a plan of action. I LIKE sorting through my beautiful paper and embellishments and carefully deciding what will look best together. I LIKE taking a ready made kit and somehow making it my own. Although it may take a while, I LIKE holding the finished result in my hands and feeling proud of what I accomplished. While I know realistically my kids will just want to see photos and read my journaling, I want to give them more. I also want to give myself more...it's my creative outlet and the process is what keeps me sane...in spite of the frustration

For the record, Stacy Julian is one cool woman and I know her concept works for so many scrappers. It's not her...it's me...but I'm OK with that. :)

A New Year...A New Blog!

2009-01-01T22:04:00.004-05:00

I've been toying with the idea of starting a blog. Yes, I know, EVERYONE has one which may be the reason I hesitated! ;) I started searching and found some really interesting scrapbook blogs...so I'm taking the plunge! I thought it would be great to have a spot where I can discuss scrap booking and post some photos. I suspect I'll be talking to myself for a while...or possibly forever...I have no idea how this blog thing works! In any case, here I am and I'm looking forward to the experience. :)

Why "Scrapronicity"? It made me laugh. I'm a huge fan of The Police and I kept thinking..."With one breath, with one flow, you will know...Scrapronicity". (Yep, I'm a dork). It should not be confused with Kevin's Police cover band on The Office..."Scrantonicity". ;) (still a dork) OK, synchronicity has little to do with scrap booking . If we want to sort of stretch the definition however, it IS something that we can do at the same time! (Yeah, I know...you can't blame a girl for trying). The name doesn't really matter, it's the passion we all feel for this hobby. I adore paper and rub- ons and ink and the creativity of it all. I love to find others who love to scrap as much as I do. I have so many projects in the wings and hope to eventually hear what everyone is working on out there!

I'll post some links and photos soon and spruce up the place. My only resolution this year is to COMPLETE some albums! Have a happy, healthy and creative 2009!