I'm back! I know it's been FOREVER since I posted last, but that dang LIFE of mine got in the way AGAIN!

I'd like to say I've been busy with happy things, but alas, it ain't so! We have a major problem with our septic/sewage system. So much so, that I can't do laundry...flush toilets...or take a long shower. It's a nightmare! The good news is that it will be fixed tomorrow. I took it upon myself to take a trip to the lovey laundrymat today to get some nasty washing done. It has been a good 10 years since I've set foot in a laundrymat. Hmmmm, I don't miss it! The washers are too small...they don't clean very well...and half of them don't work or steal your money! Sheesh!

Now, on to the bright side of my life. I made it through round 4 and round 5 of the Chalet's Survivor competition, thanks to my angel who voted for me :) I made an altered canvas and two cards for Round 4 and the "Fresh Flowers" layout for Round 5 from a Becky Fleck sketch. Man, I love them, there sketches! We also had an immunity challenge where we were to scraplift one of the member's creations (Isabelle's). My scraplift is called "Simply Kaila." I believe that Carla was the lucky winner of immunity this week. Again, some amazing scraplifting took place.

You really, seriously need to go checkout the Chalet's gallery! We have some absolutely gorgeous entries for the new Creative Team, as well as member's layouts/creations in general. It's truly inspirational! You may submit your entries until the 28th of February. Go to the Chalet's message board for more details.

Speaking of the Chalet...we have Karen Russell coming on the 23rd at 10:00 p.m. EST for a celebrity chat. So, if you'd like to chat with her...come on over!

Another project I completed was some magnetic photo frames for my Mother/Father's church meeting this past Tuesday. I made 40 of them buggers! My Mom said that everyone liked them. That's all that matters.

Lastly, tomorrow begins my semi-annual Scrap-A-Way with the girls! Can I just tell you how I need this??? After the nasty septic issue, I NEED some "me" time. I'm in the mood to create! Plus, a long, hot shower doesn't sound bad either. I believe they just remodeled the whole hotel. So, it's gonna be lavish...ha!

Thanks for stopping by!

Shawn

On to Chalet Survivor Round 4!!! Thank you!!! I seriously appreciate whomever voted for me!!! We had to alter something. I usually like to alter something that I'm actually going to use. I'm not one for altering something for decoration. So, I decided on altering a puzzle for Kaila. She's really been into puzzles lately and is quite good, in my opinion. I thought it would be interesting for her to have to put a puzzle together that had a picture of her and her siblings on it. I went with a "Seasons" theme and was happy with the results. I haven't altered too many things, so it's always a learning experience. I purchased the Creative Imaginations puzzle at the LSS for around $4.99. It's basically naked chipboard and really easy to work with. I used Stampin' Up patterned papers, SU cardstock, MM rubons and brads. I also added a Frostcreek frog charm.

I'm curious/anxious to see what next week's challenge is now. It has to do with Valentine's Day, that's the only hint we were given. I'm hoping for a card, or candy box/item.

There are only 16 more days until our semi-annual Scrap-A-Way. We spend 2 nights and 3 days in a hotel and scrap our hearts out. I can not tell you how much I look forward this this event. So, I'll be getting my page planners ready. I usually make about 15 of them for weekend. I'm a very slow scrapper, so that's more than enough. I do take "extra" photos, just in case I have a REALLY productive day.

Speaking of scrapbooking, I may have mentioned that I was taking my unwanted scrapbook supplies to sell at the LSS's Yard Sale. I ended up making over $300 in store credit! What's my first purchase you may be asking? Well, I did already purchase a couple small items, but my next purchase will be for...the Quickutz Revolution! Yes! I can't wait to put that puppy to work! I've had a Quickutz, but it was so strenuous to operate. I'm hoping this will encourage to whip those die cuts out more frequently.

Anyway, I must get back to work and accomplish some cleaning today.

Thanks for stopping by!

Shawn

Chalet Survivor!!!

I forgot to mention that I did make it to round number 2 and it looks like I'll be moving on to round number 3. Thanks to the angels that voted for me!!! If you haven't visited the gallery over there, please take some time and check these great creations out. They have some great photography and some awesome designs. This was challenge for me. We had to use 3 pictures regarding "Our Town." We also had the stipulation of using at least 2 patterned papers. I had to call my mother-in-law to see if there was anything interesting to photograph in our huge (insert sarcasim) town of Pulaski. She mentioned the Octagon house, which is really cool and then I thought about the sheep farm. I wanted the buffalo farm, but they were either not there or sleeping. I had the hot air balloon photo from July this year. I used the Scrapbook Chalet's February Chatterbox kit to complete this week's challenge.

I was also able to complete an AAM challenge at the Chalet regarding the 5 things I love about being alive. That was interesting to do as well. I also used the Scrapbook Chalet's February Chatterbox kit to complete that challenge. I'm all about killing two birds with one stone. Chatterbox papers work for a variety of layouts AND they're double-sided. You just can't beat it!

Margo has posted a "Chore a Week" over at Scrapbook Chalet and for the last two weeks I have chosen to clean Kaila's room. I'm not scared...I could MAKE the time, but this scrappin' bug has got me by the horns and it isn't pulling me in that particular area of the house. I know I still have 4 more days. It just isn't looking very good right now. I gotsta pick me a different chore. Is scrapping considered a chore? - :)

Laura (owner of Scrapbook Chalet) is currently taking pre-orders for items being released at CHA this Winter. SO, if you have a hankering for somethin'...check out the thread on the message board for further details. There is some seriously awesome goodies coming out!

I completed another page for my BOM challenge over at ScrapNCircle. I'm loving how this is turning out. I'm trying to use all Cosmo Cricket papers for the majority of this little album. That's some great stuff there!

ScrapNCircle is going to start to have an all day challenge day/evening titled "Thrillin' Thursday" once a month. I'll have further details when they have been finalized. It's sure to be a good time. There are a lot of spunky, energetic girls over there. They'll keep ya hoppin' with there challenges!

Thanks so much for stopping by! I really appreciate any comments you take the time to leave.

Shawn

Scrapbook Chalet's gallery is Hopping!

The gallery is being bombarded with Survivor layouts for Challenge #1 and they are GORGEOUS! Run, don't walk over to the gallery to check the entries out. Wow! The challenge was due today and hmmmm, here's mine titled "Priceless Smiles." We had to use a sketch from Pencil Lines. I added some bling and just couldn't stop myself! I used my Heidi Swapp mini iron for the first time on the "SMILES." It was very easy to use, but I had to put it down for approximately 30 seconds, as opposed to 5. Hey! It worked! No complaints here. Wish me luck for the voting tomorrow. I'm SERIOUSLY gonna need it!

I also completed two DT projects for Scrapbook Chalet using January's 3 Bugs Smitten kit. It is just so bold and pretty with its little bit of pinks thrown in. I still quite a bit of the kit left. I'll be completing a couple more things within the next couple of days.

Feel free to click on the layout if you'd like a closer view.

Thanks for stopping by!

Shawn

Book Of Me - over at ScrapNCircle.

I've never done one of these books, so it should prove interesting. I have completed the first three pages consisting of a Title Page, Dedication Page and a Table of Contents Page. I used Cosmo Cricket papers for all of them, as well as some of my "old" stash. Imagine that! The book is only 7 x 7, so it's really easy to work with.

Roo has decided to two bi-weekly challenges for the Trimmed Scrappers over at ScrapJazz. I think this should work quite nicely due to all of my upcoming deadlines. Thanks, Roo! As far as the actual weightloss is going...it isn't. I'm having a difficult time getting back on track...still! I'll at least get some good exercise tonight at volleyball. We'll be playing 6 games again, so I'm bound to lose water weight.

I've accomplished quite a bit in the cleaning department. I had company last night and in order to prepare for their arrival there was much to be done, as I'm sure you can imagine. I finally cleaned the refrigerator, vacuumed the floors, scrubbed the kitchen floor, dusted the ceiling fan in the kitchen, dusted in the livingroom AND cleaned the bathroom...including the tub! I know...wonders never cease! I should be good to go for three more months - just kidding!!! I don't know about you, but a clean house just makes a lot of things better, or should I just say, "less stressful." I'm continuing to make progress today in honor of my 2007 word, "anti-procrastination."

So, in order to keep on track, I must end this post.

Thanks for stopping by!

Shawn

Happy New Year!!! I'm looking forward to a year of change, not only physically, but also geographically. Now just hold on! I'm not moving very far away from my current location. Heck, we may not even move at all, but it IS a possibility. We plan on looking for something this Spring/Summer. How exciting and scary at the same time! Do you realize how much CRAP you accumulate in the span of 10 years? It ain't pretty, Folks!

As far as physically, well let's just say I wish for a little less of ME! Here is Scrapjazz's Trimmed Scrappers Weekly Challenge #2 layout. My three year old daughter, Kaila, took this photo. Do you think she was a tad close? That's why I'm laughing. These are some of my problem foods. There's just not enough space for all of my downfalls...food-wise. I used part of The Memory Safe's Fancy Pants kit. So pretty IRL! Double click on the image for a closer view. I have an alterior motive for losing weight, besides feeling better about myself. We will have been married for 10 years in the middle of June and I want to do a photo portfolio for my DH. My good friend, Angelina, has agreed to take them for me. I think he would really be surprised. We all know that if I'm not thin enough they DARN WELL WON'T GET TAKEN! That's where the surprise will come in, if I actually lose the weight.

I have some other goals as well. There's a thread over at ScrapNCircle regarding inspiration by Ali Edwards (thanks, Michelle). She focuses on one word all year long. I decided that my personal word would be "anti-procrastination." I don't know about you, but I make excuses as to why things don't get done. Hopefully, this will be a word/action/personality trait of my past. I'm looking for a solution to a lot of my "problems" and focusing on this particular word will definitely put me in the right direction.

What are your goals for 2007?

One last thing before I zip out of here. As some of you know, I took a little trip to Michigan with my three small children to visit relatives. I mentioned in an earlier post that my Mother is losing weight and weighs less than I do. Her new nickname, given to her by me, is BEAN POLE! I've never seen her so thin! She looks great! She is technically still about 40 pounds overweight, but good grief! She looks soooo thin to me! I regret to tell you that I don't have any before/after photos, but I hope to within the next couple of months. She's my inspiration for a thinner, healthier ME!

That's all for now.

Thanks for stopping by!

Shawn

I just wanted to take a minute and post the layout I did for a challenge over at Scrapjazz posted by Nancyroo. Thanks for the challenge, Roo! I've lost a total of 9.4 pounds since December 12th. My ideal weight is 130, but I'll settle for 145. I'll keep you all posted.

I'll be heading to Michigan tomorrow, if all goes well. So, I'll be offline until Sunday/Monday.

Have a Happy New Year!

I won't be on for a while, so I thought I'd do a large update, if Blogger lets me.

I completed some DT assignments for ScrapNCircle using Chatterbox papers, which I LOVE! The fact that they're doublesided is an added bonus. I also participated in ScrapNCircle's December Crop (Scrap the Halls) last weekend. I didn't do nearly as many layouts/projects as I had wanted, but I'm happy I did a couple. I completed "I just call him Dad." I did one more layout, but I can't find where I filed it. **Sigh!**

I just started participating in Scrap Jazz's "Trimmed Scrappers" challenge. Yes, we all know I'm a little pudgy and the fact that my own Mother weighs about 7 pounds less than I do is driving me over the edge. My Mom has been overweight most of her adult life. She hasn't seen her current weight for at least 30 years. She's wasting away! I'll see if I can get a photo of her after Christmas with me to show you the difference. I'm really happy and proud of her and for her. She's my inspiration for getting back on track. I call her with my progress and she calls me with hers. Anyway, ScrapJazz has a daily and weekly check in, not to mention some challenges posted by Nancyroo. I haven't completed the first challenge yet, but she's giving everyone extra time, so I hope to finish it within the next couple of days.

I'm not ready for Christmas yet, but I'm excited for the children. Their anticipation is overwhelming! Everyday I'm asked if Santa's coming. And everyday I tell them how many days are left. They get such a look of excitement on their faces. It's so CUTE!

I'll be traveling with the children to Michigan (6 1/2 hour drive) after Christmas by myself! I've done it several times, but I don't like to do it as well in the Winter. We haven't seen some of our reletives in months, so it's time...if the weather is good. That's the deal breaker. Bad weather...we stay put!

I have volleyball tonight! We have to play 6 games! Yes!!! I love it! I should weigh less on Friday AM. I just love that game!

Well, that's it for now. Happy Holidays, Everyone! Stay safe!

Shawn

I have two Scrapbook Chalet Design Team assignments completed and would like to share with you. I used photos that are from 1999 and 2002. They are of Nick and Blake. I used the Scrapbook Chalet's Nov/Dec American Traditional Designs kit. I did add a couple of additional items to each layout, but for the most part I used the kit.

It's snowing here! Finally! I hope to take the kids sled riding at my MIL's house Friday or Saturday. It's been several years since I was able to take Winter photos. We just haven't had a lot of snow, or it was to wet to sled ride. So, this will be cool if I can get some photos of the kids ;)

I'm going to attempt to venture out in the snow tonight for volleyball. I hope it's not as bad as the weatherman said it was going to be.

That's it for this short updtae.

Thanks for stopping by!

Shawn

I posted a New Sketch Challenge at Scrapbook Chalet. Be sure to check it out and see what you can create. I find that I go faster when I start with a basic sketch.

I plan on scrapping tomorrow evening, as well as the next couple of days after that. I have a lot of challenges/DT assignments I'd like to accomplish.

First on my list is a challenge posted by the Scrapbook Chalet's owner, Laura Gordon. She would like to see a layout created using 2 pp's, 3 photos, journaling, ribbon and 1 flower accent. Sounds easy, eh? It's due Monday the 4th of December. Oddly enough, I've already chosen a sketch I found at Heather Ann Designs posted by Jennifer. I believe it's a digital website, but the sketches are great!

Reminder - ScrapNCircle is having a cyber crop beginning on December 15 through December 17th. Feel free to pop in and complete a challenge, or two...or three ;)

Nothing gets my mojo flowing better than a good challenge!

Volleyball was brutal on Thursday! We had one straight hour of bump-set-spike...bump-set-spike! I was literally DRIPPING with sweat! We then proceeded to our next match, which was OK, but not nearly as grueling. I just LOVE this sport! It's basically the only exercise I get.

For those of you located in the Western PA area, did you get wet on Friday??? I got SOAKED! Kaila and I were coming out of the Dollar Tree and it was just an open faucet! It looked like I just took a shower. That's what I get for not having a hood on my jacket. Kaila was a little more fortunate in that respect. I can't complain though. The city I'm from, Grand Rapids, Michigan, was pelted with a FOOT of SNOW!!! Yeah, count your blessings!

Thanks for stopping by!

Shawn

I'm finally posting! Yes, I know! I really just don't have a whole lot going on right now. Today is the last day of November 2006. Thanksgiving was very nice with tons of awesome food. It was very leisurely this year due to the children being pretty much self sufficient. I didn't have to chase them around and make sure they didn't break anything. That was really nice. I actually got to sit and chat.

I can hardly believe how fast this whole year has gone. Christmas is right around the corner! I've gotten quite a bit of shopping done, but still have a lot to do. Imagine that!

I just wanted to let everyone know about a couple of things going on in the scrapbooking world. First of all, Scrapbook Chalet is having a major contest starting tomorrow. The grand prize is a CRICUT!!! If you haven't seen one of these machines, you're living on another planet - LOL! It is just awesome! So, to win...ya gotta play! Checkout www.scrapbookchalet.com for more details.

Secondly, ScrapNCircle is winding down their Surviving the Circle competition with just three players left. My "spunky" layout is for this week's challenge - play along. The site is having a weekend crop starting December 15th and running until the 17th. So, be sure to stop by www.scrapncircle.com and join us. It's always a lot of fun and the challenges are great!

Lastly, The Memory Safe is just finishing the final touches on the premier kit featuring Fancy Pants since the new owner, Amy Norman, took over along with one of her friends. The site's first contest has also been going on and should be wrapping up soon. Not sure exactly what's in store after that, but Amy's pretty creative, so you'll have to check it out!

I'll be going to play co-ed volleyball tonight for a double-header. It's always good for some calorie burning. And, since I eat wayyyyy too much, that's a good thing!

Ear Stapling Update - I found that this particular weight loss method was unsuccessful for me. So, I had DH remove them. Needless to say, he didn't operate the easy tool properly the first time, so I just about hit the roof, but I survived. The last three he took out I could barely feel. It's really nice to be able to scrub my ears again.

Anyway, there's my quick update. Hope all is well with all of you!

See ya!

Shawn

Log time...no blog! Well, I must say that time is flying! I CAN NOT believe that it is already the middle of November and the holidays are upon us. I'm really looking forward to them and actually have a lot of shopping done.

First on my list is the Grand Opening of Scrapbook Chalet http://www.scrapbookchalet.com . They have a brand new website, new kits and awesome members! It's a great place to hang out. So, if you get a chance, pop on over and checkout all of the great contests/challenges we have going on. The Design Team is currently working on the November kits and should have some layouts up very soon.

I've been hard at work creating new layouts to use up some of my stash. It's been liberating to use a lot of my "old" stuff. I do, however, have other layouts with newer lines, because we all know it's so darned hard not to purchase the yummy new stuff ;)

I had posted a sketch challenge on ScrapNCircle for their Surviving the Circle contest and the two page layout titled, "Tree Fan," is what I created using that sketch.

I also posted a sketch challenge over at Scrapbook Chalet with a deadline of tomorrow. That layout is titled "Ahhh...finally gifts." So, if you happen to see this and can whip out a layout, be sure and post it under the "Sketches" forum and we'll be voting on who received the RAK that I'll send.

Thanks for stopping by!

Shawn

I had an awesome weekend of scrapping! I was absolutely thrilled to go to a 24 hours crop complete with great food, great friends and all the scrapping I could handle! It was great! I completed 8 layouts, along with helping a friend of mine do some of her layouts. I can't wait until next year!

I scrapped this AM to complete a Scraplift Challenge over at ScrapNCirlce. I love how it turned out. It really does look a lot better in person.

I have plans to go to my Stampin' Up Stamp Club tomorrow night, as well as visit the LSS and scrap at my friend, Lori's house. It will be a great day I'm sure.

Later!

Shawn

Ahhh, a rainy day here in paradise...

Can I just say that I wish the rain would cease for a measley day? I mean really, can't we have a little peace to go trick-or-treating without getting drenched? It's bad enough to have to trudge through the mud, but come on!

I have a couple of things coming up that are exciting this week! The Scrapbook-Chalet is set to have its grand opening tomorrow. Yeah! I can't wait to see the new website and see what Laura has in store for everyone.

The Memory Safe is going to have a new contest very soon with some exciting new challenges. Sign-up ASAP.

Scrap-n-Circle is constantly having challenges and sales over there. So, go check it out and join in on the fun!

Not much scrapping going on here, but I'm going to a crop this Friday. Wahooooo!!!! I can't wait!

The layout that I posted today was completed for Scrap-N-Circle's Surviving the Circle - Play Along. I made this cedar chest my Junior year in high school. I hope for it to be a precious heirloom one day to my daughter.

Thanks for looking!

Shawn

New Questionaire:

I saw this on Roo's blog and decided I'd like to answer some of these questions.

1. In two words, explain what ended your last relationship? he cheated
2. When was the last time you shaved your legs? (yesterday) Monday afternoon
3. What were you doing this morning at 8am? eating breakfast
4. What were you doing 15 minutes ago? scrapping
5. Are you good at maths? yes
6. Your formal night? LOL!
7. Do you have any famous ancestors? unknown
8. Have you ever taken out a loan to pay for school? No.
9. Do you know the words to the song on your myspace profile? no sure
10. Last thing received in the mail? DH's paycheck :)
11. How many different beverages have you drank today? tea, water, Diet Rite
12. Do you ever leave messages on people's answering machines? Yes.
13. Who did you lose your CONCERT virginity to? Never been to one. I don't like that much noise.
14. Do you draw your name in the sand when you go to the beach? No
15. What's the most painful dental procedure you've had? Nothing
16. What is out your back door? breezeway leading to a porch
17. Any plans for Friday night? Yes.
18. Do you like the ocean? never been
19. Have you ever received one of those big tins of 3 different kinds of popcorn? Yes, I like the caramel.
20. Have you ever been to a planetarium? No.
21. Something you are excited about? Re-opening of the Memory Safe and the big contest and the Grand Opening of Scrapbook-Chalet!
22. What is your favorite flavor of jelly? strawberry
23. Are any of your great-grandparents still alive? no
24. Describe your keychain. It's just a plain ring.
25. Where do you keep your change? In my purse, pocket, kitchen drawer, dresser, car, "piggy" bank
26. When was the last time you spoke in front of a large group of people? Unsure
27. What kind of winter coat do you have? pink/white/grey
28. What was the weather like on your graduation? gorgeous
29. Do you sleep with the door to your room open or closed? slightly open
30. What are your siblings middle names? Andrew, Daniel, Lynn
31. Where is your dad right now? Vacation in Massanutten, TN
32. What was the last thing you said? "Tell Troy Thanks!"
33. What is something you've learned about yourself recently? I'm a tad too fat.
34. What color is your watch? I don't wear a watch.
35. What do you think of when you think of Australia? Steve Irwin
36. When was the last time you squatted to pee? Probably about 20 years
37. Who is the last person you liked? Don't know.
38. Are you close to your mom? Yes.
39. Where does your best friend work? Chris Levitt Electric (DH)
40. What is your least attractive feature? Stomach
41. How old were you when you started wearing a bra? 9
42. What color are your pants? blue denim
43. Do you have a roommate? DH
44. What color is your bedroom flooring? hardwood floor
45. Do you have a chair in your room? no
46. What time of day were you born? at night
47. Do you know anyone who is engaged? no
48. What's your favorite number? 17
49. Do you know anyone named Laurie? yes
50. What color is your mom's hair? red
51. Do you have a dog? no
52. Where did you live in 1987? Manton, Michigan
53. What happened to you in 1993? I was living on my own in a different state than any of my reletives.
54. Does your first memory involve your dad? yes
55. Do you remember singing any songs as kids? yes
56. When was the last time you went swimming? In August
57. Has your luggage ever gotten lost? no
58. When was the last time you talked to one of your siblings? 5 days ago
59. Did you ever go to camp as a kid? yes - church camp
60. Do you play an instrument? piano
61. Have you ever thought it would be Cool to smash a guitar? no
62. Do you like fire? yes
63. Where is your best friend from? Edinburg, PA
64. Are you allergic to anything? Penicillin
65. When was the last time you cried? Saturday the 21st
66. What kind of shampoo do you use? Pantene, Finesse, Suave, Head & Shoulders
67. Have you ever been to a spa? no
68. Were you popular in high school? No
69. Did you take science all four years of high school? yes
70. Do you like butterflies? yes; they are beautiful
71. What is the last book you read? Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
72. Do you like Coke or Pepsi more? Pepsi
73. What is one thing you miss about your past? Lack of freedom
74. Did you ever see the school nurse? yes
75. Have you ever wanted to be a teacher? Yes
76. What is one thing you've learned about your life recently? I love it.
78. Are you jealous of anyone? No.
79. Is anyone jealous of you? Yes.
80. When was the last time you were in an elevator? September 17th

Just a quick update and a few layouts. There's not really a whole lot going on here at the moment. My parents were here for a couple days...I'm sure it was just for my Mom to kick my butt playing Scrabble, but we had fun nonetheless.

I had my scrapbook supply party on Saturday. The kids seemed to have a lot of fun and no one got hurt. So, I was happy. Oh, and let's not forget that my house is clean and hopefully will remain that way for 5-10 days ;)

Sunday I informed DH that I would be scrapping since the house was clean. Well, I didn't get a whole lot done, but I did get to scrap between emergencies and obligations. I was trying to do some of the challenges for ScrapNCircle's ScrapNSpooktacular this past weekend. I was able to get two layouts done for the crop and one finished that I had started last week. It was a nice and leisurely Sunday though. That always makes me happy.

Today I have to spruce up the house so it doesn't get out of hand. Then, I have volleyball practice tonight. I'm really looking forward to some exercise. Speaking of exercise, I have lost 9 pounds since I started this "new way of eating." I'm really happy about that and will hopefully stick with it. I'd like to be into my size 12's comfortably by Christmas. That's not too much to ask.

That concludes my quick update. Enjoy the layouts!

Shawn

I've been cropped out of the circle! Yes, much to my dismay, I was cropped out of the Surviving the Circle competition going on at ScrapNCircle. I was the last to upload and since everyone except the person with immunity had one vote, I was automatically cropped due to my untimeliness. I'm going to still try and play along. My layout for this week is in the works. I did, however, enhance my Week #3 layout. I added some more chipboard and the rest of my title that I couldn't get to work before.

"Kaila's Special of the Day" and "Stiles" was inspired by an Ad Challenge posted at ScrapNCircle. I'm thinking I'm going to go looking for some other ads to inspire me ;)

We're still anticipating the long awaited Scrapbook-Chalet Grand Opening. We're anxious to see what the new site has in store.

I'm currently getting ready for the arrival of my parents on Thursday. Yes, there's much to do since I've been scrapping so much lately. I've found some laundry to put away that I haven't seen in months. Who knew my kids really DO have a ton of socks and underwear? It's always an accomplishment to me when I can empty a laundry basket putting items in their proper location. Ahhhh.

Well, I'm off to get something to eat, maybe feed the children and finish some much needed house cleaning.

See ya!

Shawn

Another Surviving the Circle layout has been completed. I couldn't get my computer to work very well. I was going to do a hand cut subt title - through the years. But, alas, it would not cooperate. So, given the supplies on the island, this is what I came up with. I can't believe how much Nick has changed. He looks so old at 8. I had a lovely dream that my other son was only 1 1/2 years old. When, in reality, he is really 4 1/2. They're growing tooooo fast!

Scrapbook-Chalet will be having its GRAND OPENING on October 15th and I just couldn't be more excited. The Memory Safe website is now owned and operated by our lovely Amy Norman. A big congrats goes out to her as she prepares many new and exciting things! Keep your eyes peeled for both of these awesome websites!

I have absolutely no plans for this weekend, except cleaning...cleaning and more cleaning. I truly love an uneventful weekend when things need to be done. I'm going to need the weekend, because next week is almost booked! My parents will be in town on the 19th, which I am always happy about. They'll actually be spending two nights, which is odd when my Father comes as well.

Anyway, I've got to get caught up with today's events. You know...teeth brushed...refrigerator with milk all over the floor cleaned...laundry...etc.

See ya!

Shawn

Holy Cow! It's been a week since I last posted on this poor blog! I can't believe how fast this week went. I've been busying scrappin' up a storm! Ya gotta do it when your mojo's flowin'! I created 11 layouts since I last posted. I did 8 of them within 72 hours. I don't have those scanned, so you'll have to go to www.scrapncircle.com to check those ones out. I did, however, scan in my ScrapNCircle Design Team projects for October. I used the 3Bugs Jovial line. I still have another project to complete using Kaila as my subject. I really enjoyed working with these papers.

I did do my second layout for SNC's Surviving the Circle Competition. I was allowed to use textured cardstock, patterned paper, eyelets, brads, sandpaper, pens and adhesive. We were ALSO required to also use two pieces of fabric and items from our children's clothing. Just so you all know, I DID NOT put lipstick or anything on Blake's lips. They're just RED! It's just amazing what you can create given guidelines.

Well, Volleyball has finally started! I have the sore muscles to prove it! I started the Ellwood league on Thursday. It's a little far away, but it's great fun and exercise! Yeah, yeah...that's it...EXERCISE! It may just be the only exercise I actually get. So, from now until April, I'll be busy on Mondays and Thursdays (insert huge smile here).

What does this week entail? Well, let me just tell you...ALMOST nothing! The scheduling should be pretty nice this week. I don't have a whole lot going on, but there are some places I need to be. I should be able to get some actual housework accomplished this week. Because, we ALL know that I didn't do much this week with all my scrappin' going on ;)

My dearly beloved parents will be joining us for a few days next week. I always enjoy their visits. I usually get to play Scrabble with my Mother. Yeah, you'll see a layout with pictures about that soon.

Anyway, enough about me. What's going on with all of you? I seriously enjoy any and all comments made to this blog. So, I thank you immensely for taking the time to post.

Shawn

Just a tad to share with y'all today. First of all, I was featured in this month's www.pagemaps.com newletter. I was sooo excited. The layout I did with the sketch Becky provided is called "Photoshoot Madness." I was so excited to get the sketch and see my layout in the newsletter. I know I've said it before, but I'll say it again...I just love PAGE MAPS!!!

Secondly, I have had a few people ask how my ear stapling has been going. Well, I did sleep very well after I had the procedure done, but I wasn't seeing the results with the appetite control. So, I went and had two sets put in each ear. Let me tell you...it hurt like a son of a gun!!! Holy cow! If it doesn't work this time, I'll just take them out and be done with it. I do still sleep VERY well though. It's worth it just for that.

Thirdly, The Memory Safe's Scraptathalon is coming to a close this evening. It's been great. I posted a mini challenge at the beginning of the week regarding the cleaning of scrap areas. I actually completed some of that and here is an after shot of what I was able to do. It isn't finished by any stretch, but it's way better than it was.

Fourthly, and certainly not to be put towards the bottom of my "list," is ScrapNCircle's Survivor competition. I made it to the second round! Yeehaa!! I just love being able to complete the challenges. These girls are so spunky and creative. I just love it!

Blake, Kaila and I also took a field trip to Apple Castle in New Castle, PA, complete with hay ride and demonstration of the Apple-Picking process. We then were able to purchase some items in their store, including freshly made donuts. YUM!!!!

I hope to be able to scrap something this evening. How about you?

Shawn