Digi-Dallies

What I've Learned in 2012!

2012-01-25T09:27:00.000-05:00

Thanks to the Project 12: A Year in the Life of You, I've learned about two different types of photography. The first required layout for January was to do a layout using the "triptych" style. The definition of triptych, as presented in the Merriam-Webster online dictionary is as follows: something composed or presented in three parts or sections. When I first read the description of a 'triptych' which has three elements to a photo, ie head, torso, feet, all I thought was that there was no wide-angle lens wide enough for my torso. Not wanting to really have myself photographed and taken apart like that, I decided to 'ham it up' as I usually do when I'm uncomfortable. Then I remembered my son's iPad takes photos and distorts them so much that they become hilarious. We had tears running down our cheeks on Christmas as each of the family was photographed that way. So, here is my assignment. I will do others, but they won't be of me, that's a certainty! For your personal enjoyment, may I present "Myself" to you.

Journalling:
In order to get a narrow waist, something totally foreign to me at any given stage of my life, save between ages 0 - 4 years, it was necessary for me to have my photograph taken using my son’s “iPad”. Now that amazing tablet can do strange things to a face; it can make it thinner, fatter, longer and all mushed up . Having always wanted to have an 18-inch waist, I forced my son to keep taking pics until I was satisfied with my torso. Only then did I realize what it did to my face! Who cares, I look skinny in the middle of my body. Unfortunately, this Beautiful, Magical Princess will have to get used to having a face like an alien, at least for this brief moment in time.

The second assignment was to use the "diptych". Definition: the art of putting two photos side by side to make a captivating composition. Typically, the photos when paired, will support each other and when combined create an entirely new feeling.

Here is my take on the diptych style of photography!

Journalling:
Yesterday I had the pleasure of taking Jackson and Ava to a terrific kid-space called Funmazing. They could run, jump, climb, slide and have a wonderful time. As is usually the case when kids are enjoying themselves, going to the bathroom is on the list of things-to-do. While watching Ava dance around while trying to tell me something, it occurred to me that a trip to the Necessary Room was now at the top of the list. After completing the task, Ava washed her hands and while drying them at the dryer (see photos) I wondered what the view of the dryer was like for a 3-year old. With January’s assignment 2 in mind, I whipped out my cell phone and snapped these two photos. Now that is one dedicated scrapper to take photos of the hand dryer in the ladies’ room! I hope whoever sees this page in the year 2050 will appreciate my efforts to leave a pictorial legacy for my family.

I'll just bet you can't wait to see what February's assignments will be, can you?

Hello, remember me?

2012-01-02T15:16:00.000-05:00

The Christmas season has been busy this year, but it has come and gone and a New Year has begun. Since my last post, I've been sick and a little lax in scrapping. Here is one of Ava decorating the tree at our house. Truly, if it wasn't for her help, the only thing on the tree would have been the lights as it's a pre-lit tree. Watching her little face as she examined the ornaments as I unwrapped them was absolute inspiration to carry on.

Some of my most recent projects

2011-12-10T08:51:00.000-05:00

I'm slowly getting back into stamping, crafting and digital creations. I haven't felt very inspired lately, but with Christmas approaching fast and all the goodies I'm seeing on other blogs....well, I'm trying. Here are some of the things I've made in recent weeks. Some have a purpose, some are things I did during a class and one very special card for my granddaughter.

Here is the frame created during the Mouse, Paper, Scissors - Give class by Jessica Sprague and Heidi Swapp.

Next is a card and a bucket of golf balls for my brother. I really enjoyed making these as a surprise. I used my Silhouette for both Ava's card and Bob's golf balls.

This is Ava's birthday card. She was 3 years old on November 10th.

A Long Ago Barbara

2011-10-13T13:04:00.001-04:00

It's funny how when I look at old photos of myself I refer to myself as Barbara, yet when I see a current photo, I'm just Barb. I wonder why that is? Well, I'm sure I don't have enough money for therapy to find out, so I'll just accept that's the way it is!

Journalling reads:

This photo was in a box of photos that I’ve had since my Mom passed away in 2003. I was shocked, amazed and pleasantly surprised to find this photo of me taken at Christmas 1970. Today, at age 62, I can’t believe I was this pretty way back when. I suppose I’m finally seeing what other people in my family kept telling me, "Barbara, you’re a very pretty girl." Why was I unable to believe them at that time. I don’t know. Is it the plight of all young women to constantly be so critical of themselves that they can’t see what others see? Unfortunately, I believe it is the same today for young women as it has always been, we don’t believe in ourselves enough and that’s sad. I think of my daughters and wonder if they suffered the same insecurities as I did all those many years ago. My mother wasn’t an affectionate mother with hugs and verbal endearments and the like. I grew to understand that she also suffered from a lack of physical affection in her childhood. I tried really hard to change that. I allowed my house to gather dust bunnies under the couch, fingerprints on the fridge and beds to go unmade in favour of playing with my kids. I remember teaching my first born to say "I love you" because I was desparate to hear it. Finally, she said it to my Mom one day and it went like this, "I lub boo, Gramma". My mom actually had tears in her eyes and repeated it to Tiffany. It seemed that from then on, she was able to tell her grandkids she loved them. It wasn’t until she was in her 80s that she could say it to her children. But, better late than never, I say!

It's been a while, hasn't it?

2011-10-03T11:33:00.000-04:00

Now that the weather is a little colder I want to scrap again. My creative mojo was definitely on summer vacation. I stopped by Jessica Sprague's site and saw the Scrapground challenge and decided it was just what I needed to get back into the swing of things.

Tiffany, this one is for you!

Kit:
Aussie Christmas - Digiridoo

Owen & James at Play

2011-09-07T10:58:00.000-04:00

Kirsten sent me some photos taken recently of the boys with Shrek taken while they were on vacation in Majorca. The other photo was taken at Hampstead Heath at the playground and splashpad. Just think, 60 years ago their Granddad Collier played at the same park, but without all the fancy playground equipment that's available nowadays.

Hey, remember me!

2011-09-03T09:46:00.000-04:00

I haven't done any scrapping for quite a while, but when I saw Kristyn's profile picture I just had to use it on a layout, so I filched it from Facebook.

So, you who know Ava -- am I right?

My new toy!

2011-08-29T08:39:00.000-04:00

I received a Silhouette SD electronic cutting tool for my birthday and here is my first creation with it.

It's a very basic card using Stampin' Up cardstock and a bit of spare ribbon I had laying around. I love that it cut that beautiful, intricate design so sharply. I can see many uses for this great cutting tool.

Swimming in the Garden with Owen & James

2011-07-30T21:23:00.000-04:00

Here are more photos from my trip to the UK. It was a gloriously warm day so out came the kiddie pool so that the boys, including Daddy, could cool off.

I really love how oblivious James is to Owen kicking a ball around. James just wants to play in the water. Now that's focus!

Back to scrapping!

2011-07-28T13:07:00.001-04:00

It's been quite a while since I scrapped a page and there are several reasons.

Mojo has been missing.
It's been too hot.
Started chatting again with cardmaking friends and was distracted making digital cards.
I need new glasses. It's been three years since my last eye exam and I believe I'm going to skip bi-focals and go straight to tri-focals...
My eye exam is August 16th, so it may be a while before I do any more of anything. I'm tired of sitting hunched over to see the screen through scrunched up eyes.....who needs more lines, I ask you!

Anyway, before I take a break, here's a page from my visit with grandchildren in England earlier this year.

Okay, this is Grandma signing out for a short break from scrapping. I'll return when I get new glasses in a couple of weeks.

Friday's "Catch The Bug" Challenge

2011-07-22T17:36:00.000-04:00

I love this snowman by Digital Delights. Here's what I made for today's challenge.

Supplies:
Mr. Jingles by Digital Delights
SU cardstock: Whisper White, Ballet Blue
White Fun Flock, White Glitter
Coloured with Copics

Thursday's Challenge - Snow

2011-07-22T08:40:00.000-04:00

Oh! How I wish for snow, just for a minute or two! We have temperatures here in Toronto area of 37 degrees Celsius. It's great for swimming and I'm glad we have a pool here, but otherwise.....it's too damn hot! So, it was a pleasure to make a card and look at snow, snowmen, snowflakes, etc. Here's my card for Thursday's challenge at Catch the Bug blog.

Bugaboo Wednesday Sketch Challenge

2011-07-20T08:35:00.000-04:00

Today is the day we use the sketch provided by Bugaboo. I haven't done a card sketch challenge is eons and it was quite a struggle for me to put papers and stamps together. Just because there is no mess to clean up with digital creating, it still takes time to put it together. This card is even coloured using brushes and is absolutely, 100% digital!

Supplies:
Kit: Country Christmas by Digiridoo
Cardstock: Garden Green by SU

Bugaboo Tuesday Challenge

2011-07-19T09:35:00.000-04:00

Bugaboo has Christmas in July challenges. You can see yesterday's post below this one, if you're interested.

Today, we are to use the FREE image of Ruby. Scroll about half-way down to find the download link. As soon as I saw her, I knew just exactly what I wanted to create for the card. In all her glory, may I present Ruby!

Supplies:
Ruby by Bugaboo Stamps
Digital Elements: Viva Las Vegas by Scrap Orchard
Cardstock: Lemon Tart by PTI

Bugaboo Challenges Have Caught My Eye!

2011-07-19T00:27:00.000-04:00

This is a re-post from Barb's Card Creations.
I want to make cards again, but digitally. There are some really sweet digital stamps available and I love digital because there's less mess. While surfing, I found Bugaboo challenges so I'm going to give it a try.

Monday's challenge is to make a card using non-traditional colours. Here's my card:

This is a totally digital card and I used the kit, Santastic, a collab from Digiridoo.

Come back tomorrow and see "Ruby" from Bugaboo Stamps

Ava and the Trampoline

2011-07-15T08:42:00.000-04:00

Here's a little clip of Ava having a bit of fun on the trampoline.

End of the School Year is coming fast!

2011-06-24T10:42:00.001-04:00

Grandma has been busy making teacher gifts and cards. If the postal strike ends soon, I can send these to England for Owen. I'll be seeing Jackson later today and am going to pass these along to him for his teacher. I'm really excited and have to remember that 5 year old boys won't appreciate the fun I've had making them for them to give as gifts.

Here are the gifts. The book is for the teacher and the box of cards is for the teacher's assistant.

Here is a photo of the inside of the book. There are pocket pages for each month and I have put in a selection of cards as well.

The last photo is the two cards I made for Owen and Jackson to give teacher. Owen's shirt is blue, Jack's is red. These were all made in Photoshop, including the colouring of the little boy!

I had so much fun doing these. I'll start looking now for projects for next year!

Splash Time!

2011-06-19T10:49:00.000-04:00

Owen and James play really well together, especially in their splash pool. Turn up the sound to make sure you can hear their voices.

I'm working on a layout to match this video and will be back to post it soon!

Tiffany in the Vineyard

2011-06-17T12:58:00.000-04:00

At least, I think she's in a vineyard....I'm sure I'll be informed if it's not a vineyard. I just love this photo of Tiff, so I made a layout. The template is from Jessica Sprague.

Two for Tiff!

2011-06-14T13:03:00.000-04:00

A little break from UK pictures and back to Australia photos. I really felt that the layout yesterday would work well for some of Tiffany's photos from her trip. This is what it looks like using the template from yesterday. There is also a second page (four pages in all because both are two page layouts). Can you tell which one I did without a template?

Again, if you click on the pics, they will open up in a new window and be of a size that can be easily read.

Guess Who! Yup.....more pics of UK!

2011-06-13T14:10:00.002-04:00

I finally finished the Digi in Deep, v.2 class. I've had the last lesson to do for more than a year now and I thought it was high time to complete the course. I'm super glad I did, because it made for a spectacular layout of James and his birthday gift from Grandma & Papa John. Click on the picture to get a really good-sized view and you can read the journalling, as well.

The very edge of the large, black & white photo is the left hand side of the page. The remainder, of course, is the right hand side of the page and they will be printed separately and placed in my scrapbook as facing pages. I'm very pleased with this layout and will soon be using it again, with different photos and pictures (think Australia and Tiffany).
The gardening set is the gift James wanted for his birthday. I waited until I was in London so I would have the pleasure of seeing his face light up when he found just what he wanted. All I can say is thank goodness it was the gardening set and not a real, regular size car!!!

More pictures from the UK

2011-06-12T10:25:00.000-04:00

Now that I have about 200 pictures of Owen and James.....look out. Here's two more layouts I have just completed.

I like the above layout because photos of me and my grandchildren are rare, and this one actually turned out pretty good.

What can I say about those little rapscallions, except that I'm in a pirate phase.

Tower, Tower, Tower

2011-06-10T22:39:00.000-04:00

Owen and James building a tower. Along comes Dad and the tower reaches to the ceiling with no problem!

These were taken Saturday morning, May 28th. I like to be lazy in the mornings and thoroughly enjoyed just watching the kids play with their toys.

Paris -- Ooo La La!

2011-06-08T14:09:00.000-04:00

This wonderful city was everything I imagined and more! It was quite an experience for one day.

Journalling reads:

The city of lights is truly a sight to behold. We started the day at 3:30 am. We were booked on the Eurostar train leaving St. Pancras station at 5:35 am. arriving in Paris at 9:15 am. Our first stop was McDonalds, across from the Gare du Nord for coffee and a muffin. Next we boarded the L'Open bus, a hop-on / hop-off tour to see the sights. Because I don't walk easily that suited me just fine. We saw The Louvre, Notre Dame, Arc de-Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower, places I had only dreamed about. Lunch was a quiche for Kirsten and a croissant for me, eaten on a park bench by the Seine.. Following lunch, we took a cruise on the river. I was so happy I couldn't tell the left bank from the right bank, they were both beautiful. Just to be in Paris was enough. Next time I see Paris in the movie theatre I will remember the sights, sounds, smells and crazy traffic. At 7:15 pm, the Eurostar left Paris to return to London. I will never forget spending the day in Paris with Kirsten.

Happy 5th Birthday, Owen!

2011-06-07T09:08:00.000-04:00

I've just returned from 10 days in London, UK to visit Kirsten and her family. I took a few photos, say 200, and a couple of movies, too. Here is the first of many pages that will tell the story in pictures. I had a fantastic time so thank you to Kirsten, John, Owen and James.

Owen, I hope you are having a wonderful day, even if you did have to return to school after mid-term break! Grandma will try to remember to call you before you go to bed tonight. Love you, Owen!

7 Days in May Challenges @ Jessica Sprague

2011-05-23T15:51:00.000-04:00

As I understand it, there are going to be 7 challenges from May 23rd - 29th, with freebies at Jessica Sprague. I have decided to participate as much as I can. Here's my first layout.

Here's another one for your album, Tiff!

Catching up on Family Scrapping

2011-05-18T10:27:00.001-04:00

Now that ADSR6 is behind me, I can get back to regular challenges and just plain scrapping. Here are three new layouts featuring Ava and Jackson.

Final Challenge for ADSR6 - 2011

2011-05-16T08:01:00.000-04:00

This time I'm sure. Challenge 15 is the final challenge and it was a lovely one. Here's my layout.

Journalling reads:

It has been said that, as we grow older, making friends becomes more difficult. I disagree with that because I have found many friends within the digi-scrapping communities I visit daily. When I wake up in the morning, the first thing I do, after making a pot of coffee, is to sit down at my computer and really enjoy my morning coffee with people I know who share the same interests and priorities as myself. Within 15 minutes, I can find out if someone I know has had a baby, if their child(ren) are ill, or if they're spouse hasn't been paying enough attention to them or taking them for granted. Conversely, I can also read about my friends' successes within their lives: have they won special recognition for a particular achievement, did they have an absolutely perfect day yesterday, or, even share with them the joy of planning a celebration of any sort. My friends want to share and they invite me to share their happiness, too!

At a time in my life when I lived hundreds of miles away from my family and friends, I discovered online crafting communities. I lurked about for a while, read their posts and finally found the courage to introduce myself. I was made to feel like a long-lost friend and welcomed into their online home as if I was the most important person in the world. These wonderful people accepted me into their community and made me welcome. I had always believed that I was not creative. I was soon divested of that idea! Because of the praise and encouragement from my virtual family, I now have a hobby that brings joy and satisfaction to me and my real-life family. Because I have found passion in preserving life's moments in digital scrapbooking, I will be leaving a legacy for my children, grandchildren and maybe even great-grandchildren and through my pages, they will know that they are loved. None of this would have happened without the caring, kindness and encouragement of my online family of digi-scrappers and card-makers and I thank them from the bottom of my heart. You're the best!

ADSR6 - Challenge 14

2011-05-15T08:19:00.003-04:00

As difficult as it is to believe, I WAS WRONG! There are 15 challenges in ADSR6, so this one is NOT the last one as previously suggested. Challenge #14 was a collaborative effort by both team members. Jamie created the layout, leaving spaces for the photos. My contribution was the journalling and photos. I think Jamie did a fantastic job on the layout which made my part so easy. Thanks, Jamie.

Journaling Reads: You know why John looks so happy in this picture? It’s because Hank has less hair on his head than he does! My husband always liked that about Hank and would point out the similarities of hairlessness whenever someone met Hank for the first time. Hank has left us now and John’s hair is slowly, but surely, following.
Credits:
Movie Magic by Connie Prince, freebie Made of Awesome alpha by Jennifer; I created the layout, flattened to PNG and Barb finished with adding the photos, title and journaling.

I shall now go to work on the final challenge in this year's ADSR6.

Just for YOU! Phil

2011-05-14T09:34:00.000-04:00

I really liked your photos from Wonderland and decided to highlight Jackson in today's layout.

Credits:
Movie Magic by Connie Prince

ADSR6 - Challenge 13

2011-05-12T10:47:00.000-04:00

The race is almost run....the next Challenge will be the last. In the meantime, here is challenge 13.

Credits:
ADSR6, Prize 8 from Sunshine Studios
Fonts: Packard Clipper, Susie's Hand, Zikketica

George, The Dog

2011-05-08T19:12:00.000-04:00

This beautiful dog belongs to Andrew & Sheena. I hope Owen gets a chance to see this picture as he loves George.

A Star is Born!

2011-05-05T13:31:00.000-04:00

Ava is singing Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.

Grab Bag Challenge at Gotta Pixel

2011-05-04T08:38:00.000-04:00

Gotta Pixel is having some amazing challenges all month long because of National Scrapbooking Day, which is May 7th. Here is my first challenge layout for the Grab Bag Challenge. Click on the link to see the requirements for this challenge. I chose numbers 1, 2, 4, 6 and 7.

It is no secret that I love the Royal Family. I couldn't resist making a layout of this marvellous wedding.

Everything from Spring Is My Thing by Connie Prince, with the exception of the following elements:
Banner - Silhouettes by Decrow Designs
Horseshoe and Black Cat created by ME
Prince of Wales Feathers downloaded from Google Images and modified by me.

Requirements for my layout:

1. Something beautiful. (Your interpretation#

The wedding photos!

2. Something lucky. #Your interpretation#

In Britain, the horeshoe and blackcat are considered lucky items for weddings. I made these elements myself as I couldn't find any horseshoes anywhere. I also made the cat using the shape tool.

4. Ribbon#s#.

The ribbon on the horseshoe and in the cluster.

6. At least one bat, bird, butterfly, or cloud.

There's a butter fly near the cluster.

7. A cluster. #Can be made up of any of the other required elements, if you wish#

10. Button#s).

There's a blue button in the centre of the yellow flower.

In addition, you must include the color red readily visible in your layout.

The whole flavour of this layout is red.

ADSR6 - Challenge 11

2011-05-03T14:24:00.001-04:00

This is the second to last challenge for this year's Amazing Digital Scrapbooking Race. I'm so sad to see it coming to a close. I have had loads of fun and have made a lifelong friend in my partner, Jaime. We've talked on the phone a couple of times and she sounds like a great person to have as a friend. Thanks Jamie for being my partner and, hopefully, we'll team up again.

Now, on to the layout.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JAMES!

2011-05-01T12:54:00.000-04:00

Here is the card I made for you, however, because the mail in both our countries has had several non-working days due to Easter, I know you don't have it. Here's a sneek peek for you.

Hope you're having a wonderful day! Hugs and kisses from Grandma and Papa John.

Speed Scrap with Connie Prince

2011-04-30T10:54:00.000-04:00

I missed the chat because I was glued all day (and evening watching it over and over) to the Royal Wedding. I would have loved to be there, but I dislike crowds.... Maybe when I'm visiting my daughter next month, Owen and I can have a day trip to Westminster and take some photos of our own. In the meantime, here's our own little princess (being the only girl of the four grandchildren, she gets all the girly pages).

Journalling reads:

Methinks Princess Ava is playing hard to get! This was at the library for story-hour and this young fellow followed Ava around for an hour. In these photos she looks like she's hiding from him. April 23, 2011

Credits:
Once Upon A Time by Connie Prince
Lace, Burlap & Stitching from Jessica Sprague

Font Fever Challenge at Gotta Pixel

2011-04-29T10:31:00.000-04:00

When Andrew, was a little boy, he loved to play on construction machinery, much to my fear and dismay. Today he is employed by Skyjack as a Heavy Duty Equipment Technician and gets paid to play all day long! Now if that's not a dream come true, I don't know what is.

ADSR - Challenge 10

2011-04-27T13:44:00.000-04:00

This layout is a collaborative effort between Jamie and myself. However, that being said, Jamie did all the work, I just suggested a few adjectives and part of the title. Jamie took all that and put it together beautifully. Here's Scrap Stars Challenge 10 layout.

Credits:
Adoption Day Kit by Trixie Scraps Designs, Family element from Sihouettes Kit by DeCrow and Studio Tangie, Fonts: Ikhioogla, Horse Puke, Harting, Hawaii Killer, Grunge Caltek, Gartenika

Barb and I chatted on the phone to discuss how to do this layout. It was a brainstorming session between the two of us that resulted in our title: What defines Family? (Barb suggested the title Family and it grew from there). As for the journaling, we decided to go with one word adjectives defining what family meant to each of us, the six words listed on our page are the final result from both our suggestions!

ADSR - Challenge 9

2011-04-26T12:07:00.000-04:00

This challenge was all about what you 'inherited' from someone in your family. This can be interpreted to be either genetic like blue eyes, perhaps a characteristic such as compasion, or even something physical such as something left to you by that person. I found this challenge, for want of a better word, challenging. Here's my layout, you decide how I did on this challenge.

Credits:
Kit - Blue Heaven by Laitha's Designs
Alpha - On The Hunt by Captivated Visions
Fonts - Scriptina, CAC Champagne, VT Remington

Journalling:

I am the last of 36 foster children to be cared for by the couple you see above in the blue frame. The difference between me and the other 35 is they adopted me. I cannot show you a picture of love, compassion, kindness, caring, nurturing or any of the other characteristics they were able to instill in me. I can only show you a picture of the people who cared enough and loved me enough to make me into the person I am today. I have many qualities of my Mom. She loved children. I love children. Inspite of having only a grade 6 education, she managed household finances like an accountant. I use an accounting program to track our finances. My Dad never gave unsolicited advice. If asked for his guidance, he would point out both sides of the situation which allowed me to make a decision based on what I wanted. I tried to do the same for my own children. Telling someone what to do hardly ever works anyway.

My “inheritance” has been the gift of having a family instead of having been raised in foster homes. In my humble opinion, there can be no greater gift and I am truly thankful that I am the daughter of Alice and Elden Perry

Who's Having More Fun?

2011-04-23T19:34:00.000-04:00

I am! Just watching Ava and Tiffany laughing and screaching was loads of fun for Grandma. As well as entertaining the kids, Tiffany produced a wonderful dinner of prime rib and roast chicken, complete with all the trimmings. At the request of all the kids, I made the Yorkshire Pudding. I'm telling you, at this age it's great to be needed and appreciated.

ADSR6 - Challenge 8

2011-04-19T13:38:00.001-04:00

Oh my, but the time is flying by for this race. Already we are at Challenge 8! That means only four more left, or another two weeks. WAH! This has been so much fun. Here's my layout for this leg of the race.

When my own children see this, they may not agree with what I've said, but, I've reached these conclusions as the much older and wiser (I hope) person than the Mom they may remember. If not, then they should look at the kind of grandmother I am trying to be.
Credits:

ADSR Prize 4 - Family and Friends by NDISB Creative Team with exception of
Bow Ribbon (recoloured by me) from Lovers Glade by DaniMoy Designs
Chromed Alpha by Etc_by_Danyale for title
Fonts: Regency, Century Gothic
Journalling reads:
Family provides the opportunity to teach unconditional love.
Family provides the opportunity to encourage another human being to be the best they can be.
Family provides the opportunity to provide a safe environment to learn and grow.
Family provides the opportunity to be joyful whenever we are all together.

ADSR 6.7

2011-04-18T14:08:00.000-04:00

Challenge 7 was to make a scene layout and insert a framed photograph. It's not how I usually scrap, but the point is to "think-outside-the-box" for these challenges. Here's mine.

Challenge 7 Credits:
Background Paper - Ice Cream Sundae by Lindsay Jane
Trees - Nature's Medley by Connie Prince, Silhouettes Family Tree (extracted by me)from Silhouettes by DeCrow Designs
Leaves - On The Hunt by Litabells Designs, Nature's Own by Laura Berger
Flowers - She's Full of Scrap, Wonder of It All by A+ Designs
Rocks - Nature's Own by Laura Berger
Fence - Fresh Country by A+ Designs
Squirrel - Inspired by Dominic Designs
Chipmunk - created by me from clipart
Mushrooms - created by me from clipart
Grass - Zoo Friends by Armina Designs
Butterfly - Dreaming of Spring by Flergs
Bird - Spring is My Thing by Connie Prince
Sun - Anchor and Harvest by Graham Like the Cracker
Frame - Oval Frame from Silhouette by Tangie Studio
Photo - Ava, my granddaughter
Fonts - Rough Draft, Regency

Challenge 5 of ADSR6

2011-04-10T20:18:00.000-04:00

Challenge 5 is being hosted by OSCRAPS. I love this challenge and have already completed my layout.

I have already started working on the facing page for this because it needs the journalling to be truly complete. I'll be back tomorrow, I hope, with the 2nd page.

Credits:
Scrapportunity by Connie Prince

Speed Scrap with Connie Prince

2011-04-09T11:57:00.000-04:00

Friday ise my favourite day of the week because of the speed scrap at Gotta Pixel. Last night was no exception. Here's my layout following the steps given by Connie.

Credits:
Emily by Colies Corner

ADSR6 - Challenge 4

2011-04-08T12:40:00.000-04:00

This leg of the race is an Intersection which means that only one layout will be an official entry. The team members collaborate by exchanging photos and journalling and the other member creates the layout. Our official entry is a layout made by my partner, Jamie, using photos from our trip to Germany and the Mercedes-Benz "A" class car that was an upgrade! Here is Jamie's work of art.

And to reciprocate, I created a layout for Jamie featuring the dog, Jasper, on a road trip to the Upper Peninnsula in Michigan. For journalling, I must apologize to Ricky Nelson as I used his song "I'm A Travellin' Man" and paraphrased for my own purposes.

ADSR Challenge 3

2011-04-04T23:34:00.001-04:00

A great challenge, as always. It was all about what occupies our 'play' time. As DH and I are retired, there's a lot of that going on in our house. The XBOX360 has completely changed our outlook on playing games. We can sit in our comfy chairs and see the big screen TV which really helps as our eye sight isn't what it used to be! Here's what I came up with for this challenge.

Credits:
Viva Las Vegas Mega Kit by Scrap Orchard Designers, Scrabble Tiles made by ME!

Speed Scrap with Connie Prince

2011-04-02T23:53:00.000-04:00

I missed the chat for last night's speed scrap because we we're having a dinner to celebrate February birthday babies. I know, it's April, but we had to postpone the February date because of illness. We had a ball and no one can wind up the kids like Uncle Andrew!

Kit:
Dreaming of Spring by Captivated Visions & Studio Flergs

ADSR6 - Challenge 2

2011-03-30T11:16:00.001-04:00

Nothing like remembering a person who had such a presence in my life.

Credits:
Papers - ExLibris by Kristmess, File Photo Frame by Jessica Sprague, photo cluster from Footprints in the Sand by Captivated Visions, Staples and word mats by Jessica Sprague, journalling font is Century Gothic, title font is Jaimestevie, butterfly from ExLibris by Kristmess turned into half-tone, underpainting of title and heart with wings are brushes, then heart turned into sticker.

Let the race begin.

2011-03-27T16:15:00.003-04:00

Another season of ADSR has begun. We are now in the sixth season and I'm off and running. Here is my first layout for Challenge 1.

I followed one of the lessons from Digi in Deeper, just to cement the techniques into my brain.....not sure it worked! The kit I used is called Sugar Plum by Connie Prince.

It's supposed to be Spring!!!

2011-03-23T19:52:00.000-04:00

We've had about 5 - 10 cm of snow here today. The roads are snow-covered, again, and traffic is moving at a snail's pace. From my 6th floor vantage point I can tell that there is no way I'm going out for groceries. Let the pizza delivery man bring my dinner tonight.
In order to combat this dreariness, I created a layout of the day I had out with Jackson and Ava last Monday, March 14th. We went over to my sister Shirley's and met up with her at the waterfront in Pickering. The kids had a great time throwing rocks into the water, picking up sticks and stones to take home for Mommy and playing on the jungle gym equipment. It was heavenly to feel the sunshine on my face and warm my bones.

I created this for the Ad Inspiration Challenge at Gotta Pixel.

What the Flick! Challenge

2011-03-17T15:37:00.000-04:00

This is a new challenge this year and I think this is the first time I've participated in it. Each month the hostess, Kristmess, chooses a movie poster and we take what we wish from it and make a layout. Here is this month's inspiration poster.

And here my take on this challenge. A little bit movie influence, a little bit colour influence but it is definitely out of my comfort zone to work in a monochromatic colour zone.

Font Fever Challenge @ Gotta Pixel

2011-03-13T12:12:00.002-04:00

Now that my course is complete, I'm back doing the challenges at Gotta Pixel. This one is for Font Fever. Here's my layout for this challenge using CK Mama.

Here's the journalling:
It's truly amazing how fast children learn new things. While I was working at my computer one day, Ava became interested in the calculator. I showed her how to turn it on and off and showed her when the numbers appeared in the display. Before long she was sitting there pushing buttons and showing me her work. It seems her favourite number is 5 because when I hit a different number she said "no, this one", and pointed to the 5 key again. Once the display area on the calculator was filled with 5's, I suggested she hit the off key. She looked amazed when they all disappeared and I couldn't help myself from exclaiming, "It's magic, Ava. You made the numbers disappear." She was thrilled with herself and must have spent 10 minutes just pushing buttons and counting to herself. I can still hear her saying, "5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14". Apparently she doesn't like the number 13 because she skips it every time. Oh, and 14 seems to be as high as she can go, but that's great for a 2-year old!

Kit:
Happy Go Lucky by Sherry Ferguson

The FINAL Lesson in Digi in Deeper

2011-03-12T15:29:00.000-05:00

I really don't want this class to be over, but it is. I have learned so much about digital scrapping that I am amazed it all fits into my brain. This last layout is about ME! Wasn't my idea, it was Jessica's, our teacher. Take a look.

To take this photo this morning, I got out the tri-pod and placed the camera securely on the top, fooled around with the camera settings until I found the 10-second delay setting. Then I clicked the shutter and ran around to the front of the camera and squatted down because the tri-pod wasn't tall enough for me to stand up straight. Can you believe it.....I was TOO TALL to get myself properly placed in the shot so had to bend my knees to get lower. That's why I'm smiling....I'm actually laughing pretty hard. I'm pretty sure that, never again in my life, will I have to stoop....most likely I will be given a step-stool to stand on!

The penultimate lesson in Digi in Deeper!

2011-03-11T08:33:00.000-05:00

I'm so sad that this class is drawing to a close, but am so happy and thrilled with all that I have been learning about digi-scrapping. What I didn't know is absolutely amazing and I think I still only use about one-quarter of the, if that, of the uses for Photoshop. It will be a life-long learning experience for me, I'm sure.

Well, on to the second-to-last layout. This one shows some of the places the ladies saw in Sydney. There are more, I'm sure, but you can't get all their photos on one layout.

This style is very Retro. Not my favourite, but I do love the calendar effect on the main photo.

Grab Bag Challenge @ Gotta Pixel

2011-03-09T14:14:00.000-05:00

Well I chose #4 (#4 IN = Indiana University (Bloomington); “Hoosiers”; Big 10; Crimson & Cream; 5) for the Grab Bag Challenge. Here's what I came up with for my layout. The requirements are below the layout.

Your choice means you must include the following in your layout:

1. flower(s): 1 large flowerl
2. a round shape: main photo & mat
3. 10 of some other element of your choice (ie: 10 of the same button, or 10 different buttons, or 3 of the same button and 7 of another, etc): 2 butterflies, 3 brushes (under journalling mat, wings under round photo, writing under all photos) 1 brad, 5 flowers
4. the color red somewhere on your layout (doesn’t have to be the predominate color): part of flower is red, part of rainbow is red, some stripes are red
5. at least one background paper in a neutral shade: cream coloured background paper (2nd layer)
6. at least 5 words of journaling: check
7. title and date: check

Kit: Spring Is My Thing by Connie Prince

A bit of "Whimsy" today.

2011-03-08T14:36:00.001-05:00

Started the final week of lessons in Digi in Deeper and I'm sad. However, it's hard to stay sad when we do Whimsical layouts. Take a look.

Can I just take a moment to express my appreciation to Tiffany, Michele and Kim for having such a wonderful trip and taking such fabulous photographs. Without them, I wouldn't be learning all these wonderful techniques.

I'm in love with Shabby & Ornate style!

2011-03-06T10:50:00.002-05:00

I have just completed Lesson 9 of Digi in Deeper over at Jessica Sprague and the past week has been all about Shabby and Ornate styles in digiscrapping. I have to tell you I'm sorry to see it end and that I love, love, love this style. Thank you to Jessica Sprague for developing and teaching this class. Here's my latest layout in this series.

Tomorrow we begin learning all about 'Whimsical' styles, so, please, come back Tuesday evening to see what that's all about!

Speed Scrap with Connie Prince

2011-03-05T12:46:00.000-05:00

Burt and Ava playing together. Burt wishes Ava would just look at him and Ava wishes Burt would let her carry him around. They will eventually have to come to an understanding.

Lesson 8 of Digi in Deeper

2011-03-04T20:57:00.001-05:00

Another one for Tiff's album...

Shabby style anyone?

2011-03-02T12:42:00.000-05:00

Lesson 7 of Digi in Deeper is all about 'shabby'. I've never really done this style before so am anxious to learn more. Here is my first 'shabby' layout. Expect to see more as I'm enjoying it very much.
I chose to use engagement photos of Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton for this layout.

Another layout of Tiffany drinking wine

2011-02-27T17:17:00.001-05:00

Toronto Skyline anyone?

2011-02-24T12:18:00.000-05:00

Today, in Lesson 6 of Digi in Deeper, we learned to make a skyline silhouette which is really cool. We learned how to cross-process a photo digitally. That is a technique from the 'old days' when photographers processed their own films in a dark room. I prefer to do it digitally. Anyway, here is my layout for Lesson 6.

Sounds of Silence

2011-02-23T19:09:00.001-05:00

Now that Jessica has had a rest, she is once again putting us through our paces with Lesson 5 of Digi in Deeper! Here's my page featuring Tiffany drinking wine in the desert. I can only imagine what it must have been like watching the sun set over the horizon, seeing the tables set for a magnificent meal, being served delicacies like snake and crocodile, then washing it all down with some chilled wine.....oh my, what a night to remember.

Lesson 4 of Digi in Deeper was a DOOZIE!!!

2011-02-16T19:00:00.000-05:00

OMG! This is getting tougher and tougher, but I'm learning more and more.....

The brushes, the techniques, the half-tones, the angling of elements on a page.....I'm toast! Unfortunately, so is our fantastic teacher, Jessica Sprague. She will be taking a break under doctor's orders, so I'll just have to practice what I've learned so far.

Get better soon, Jessica.....we need you!

I have a headache!

2011-02-12T19:07:00.001-05:00

Lesson 3 of Digi in Deeper has been a real challenge for me. All the rotating necessary to get it just right, but in the end, a fabulous look.

I've only just started the journalling. Tiffany, you will have to tell me all about this excursion so I can get it right.

Can I Have a Do Over?

2011-02-12T00:20:00.000-05:00

That's the name of one of the challenges at Gotta Pixel. I tried to use many of the techniques I've been learning in the Digi In Deeper course I'm taking at Jessica Sprague and this is the new layout of Ava and the ice cream:

Below is the original layout I created way back in March 2010, using the same photos. Tell me, do you think I'm learning new stuff?

Owen and James ham it up!

2011-02-11T09:31:00.001-05:00

I haven't made a page with photos of Owen and James for a while and it's high-time I did. Here is what I learned in Lesson 2 of the Digi in Deeper course I'm taking at Jessica Sprague.

We've completed two layouts thus far. The two below this post use the same techniques which seem to have a more "grungy" effect. I think I prefer that style to this one which is more "graphic" which I believe means "crisp and defined". Jeez, listen to me, I think I'm turning into an "artiste"! Just enjoy the layout and aren't the subjects of this page just gorgeous? (Spoken like a true Grandma.)

Practicing Lesson 1

2011-02-09T12:20:00.001-05:00

Here's another layout using my newfound-skills from yesterday's lesson. This time I rotated the picture placement because my focal photo is long, rather than wide.

Credits:

Digirido January Blog Train

Multi-tasking Ava

2011-02-08T11:43:00.004-05:00

See, women, young and old, are born knowing how to multi-task. Here is Ava watching TV, reading a book and colouring a picture. Way to go, Ava!

This layout was created for Lesson 1 in the Digi in Deeper class which started yesterday at Jessica Sprague. I have this feeling that we are going to learn some amazing things in this class and I am so looking forward to each lesson. Just in today's lesson I have learned how to make and use masks, grunge style scrapping, how to make my own brushes and dotted and striped paper.....the list goes on and on.

Lesson 3

2011-02-06T13:56:00.001-05:00

Here's the third lesson layout from Digi in Deep. I'll replace it with places and journalling once Tiffany sees it and tells me about these photos.

Click on the image for a larger picture.

Digi in Deep ~ Lesson 2

2011-02-05T19:23:00.001-05:00

I can't say enough how much I enjoy and appreciate Jessica's video classes. They are self-paced and well-taught. I've just completed Lesson 2 of Digi in Deep v.02 and here is the page I made following along with the video lesson.

Everything you need to create this page is included, except for the photos. If you need a closer look to read the journalling, place you cursor over the picture and left click. It should open up a new page with just the picture on it in a much larger size and will be easier to read.

Twisted Pixel Challenge @ Gotta Pixel

2011-02-03T11:39:00.001-05:00

Think back to when you were a kid and how much you looked forward to a PD day when you got to stay home from school, without playing hookie! Well, Jackson had a PD day on Monday, Jan 31st but was too sick to do anything but lay on the couch all day. I was really starting to get worried because he didn't even get up to go to the bathroom. Then, around 4:30 pm, just before Kristyn came home from work, it was like someone flicked a switch and he was back to his normal self -- running around, tormenting Ava and just generally being JACK! It was really a relief to see him up and running again.

Credits:
A Case of the Ickies by Bella Gypsy.

Speed Scrap with Connie Prince

2011-01-28T23:57:00.001-05:00

Finally, I made it to one of Connie's Speed Scraps at Gotta Pixel. Love those, but unfortunately, my internet connection was a bit wonky and kept kicking me out of the chat room. I had to follow the directions from the forum, but enjoyed myself anyway. Here's my layout of Jackson and Papa John playing on the X Box.

The Digi in Deep class from Jessica Sprague.com is really paying off. I love the wave of pictures.

Credits:
Plugged In by Connie Prince

Uluru / Ayres Rock

2011-01-25T13:42:00.001-05:00

I've started a course at Jessica Sprague called Digi in Deep v.02. This page is Lesson 1! I can't wait to see the rest of the course pages.

This will be part of the book I'm making for Tiffany about her trip to Australia.

New Look

2011-01-23T11:40:00.000-05:00

Changed the look of my blog -- AGAIN! It's still bloody cold here.

Andrew's teddybear!

2011-01-21T12:04:00.002-05:00

It's 29 years old and still brings pleasure to grandkids when their parents' forget to bring blankies and babies!

He looks so forlorn.....and in need of surgery to close up those wounds from too much hugging.

Twisted Pixels and Red photos

2011-01-20T12:07:00.002-05:00

The Twisted Pixels challenge, hosted by Isabel Mendez is so much fun. Isabel selects two layouts, then combines them into a template for the challenge. You can read about it here and see my layout below.

Isn't she adorable. I'm totally biased, of course!

Next is the Project 52 Challenge hosted by Stacy Carlson. This week's challenge is to take pictures focussing on the colour RED! Here are my photos.

This is the bottom shelf in my cupboard. Seems everything is there and that's because I can't reach anything but the first shelf. LOL!

This is a Christmas card from my daughter and her family in England. Let me go on record right now saying that the Brits have THE best cards. And, it's because of those great cards that I got into cardmaking and scrapbooking! So there!

The Jello looks good and, in addition, I get to show off the dinner napkins I made for Christmas 2003 in PEI. These are the same napkins that drive my husband crazy. I put bells on them because it was for Christmas and I like the sound of jingling bells! So there, again!

I'll be back tomorrow with some macro shots of kids toys for yet another P52 challenge in Macro Photography.

Remembering Papa/Granddad

2011-01-17T18:00:00.001-05:00

I thought the kids and grandkids would like a layout of their Dad/Papa/Granddad.

Macro Photography with a Point & Shoot

2011-01-16T10:19:00.002-05:00

I really enjoy the Macro challenges that are being hosted at Gotta Pixel by Stacy Carlson. It's something I've never done before and learning new things, particularly at my age, is invigorating. Here's my latest photo of, of all things, frozen meatballs. I am amazed at the detail I can get with my camera, a Kodak M530, point and shoot.

Week 2 of Project 52....

2011-01-15T11:22:00.001-05:00

....and I'm still in! This week we were to learn about the Rule of Thirds for taking our photos. Here's my photograph, no layout, just the photo.

Hey, Tiff, here's the front page completed!

2011-01-13T10:51:00.001-05:00

Only about 50 more to go before the album is finished.

Credits:
Aussie Christmas by Chocolate Geranium Digital Designs available at Digi_ridoo Scraps.

Do you like this, Donna?

2011-01-12T09:32:00.000-05:00

Australia - Day 2

2011-01-10T14:16:00.002-05:00

I couldn't resist!

2011-01-09T22:11:00.001-05:00

Andrew put this picture on FB and I had to download it and use it in a layout.

I really want to thank designer Amanda. It was a freebie from her blog, Designs by Amanda. There are so many generous designers in digi-land and a huge thanks to all of them for making it easy for me to scrap. You designers rock!

Speed Scrap with Connie @ Gotta Pixel

2011-01-08T12:23:00.000-05:00

The first speed scrap of the year produced this layout.

The family gathered together on Dec. 5th at Andrew & Sheena's house to trim the tree and have a sort of Christmas dinner with Tiffany before she left for her trip to Australia. Part of that day included trimming the tree with the kids. Well, it appears that Ava and Jack trimmed themselves instead!

Credits:
All I Want for Christmas by Connie Prince
Santa is part of the collab kit, Santastic by Feli Designs & Studio 4 Designworks

P52 Project

2011-01-04T00:30:00.000-05:00

I failed miserably at P365 last year, however, I am going to attempt the P52 project at Gotta Pixel this year. Maybe having to take only one picture a week will be more attainable for me. Besides, Andrew (my son) gave me a new camera for Christmas and I want to really learn how to use it. Today I actually changed the settings and was able to take this black and white photo. Geez, I remember the days when B & W was the only thing available....and we had to wait until the roll of 12 pictures was complete before sending it off to be developed!! I've taken about 15 pictures today until I was happy with this one.

Scrap, Chat, Etc. with Danyale

2011-01-02T16:57:00.003-05:00

This is going to be a bi-monthly chat (I think) and Jan 1st was #1. Danyale did a terrific job and there was lots of chatting going on, to be sure. Amongst all the chatter were five prompts and we had to chose a number between 1 & 5. I chose #3 and the prompt was: "My love for......got me......." and we were required to fill in the blanks. This is what I came to my mind.

Credits:
Well Read by Spinky Dink Scraps & Laura Banasiak

First Gotta Pixel Challenge of 2011!

2011-01-02T09:19:00.002-05:00

Gotta Pixel has had a makeover and is looking fantastic. Along with the new look are some new types of challenges. Today I'm doing the Ditch the Pic! challenge hosted by Victoria Feemster. It really is a challenge for me to create a layout with NO PICTURE! And me with a new camera for Christmas....go figure.

Next on my list of Things To Do is makeover my blog because Christmas is done! Back soon with a new header to reflect the New Year.

Credits:
Plugged In by Connie Prince: all papers & elements
Alphas: Charmed Alpha by Spinky Dink Scraps, Morning Mist Alpha by Lindsay Jane
Fonts: Pea Noodle Girlfriends, Pink, VT Portable Remington

Hi Tiffany!

2010-12-19T10:27:00.002-05:00

If you're checking my blog while you're on vacation, SURPRISE! I saw these photos on FB and loved them. I hope you don't mind but you look terrific, as always, in these photos. Say hi to Michele and Kim because Michele's in the layout as well.

I used the kit, My Everyday Kit by Mye de Leon and a template by Captivated Visions.

This is so not Ava!

2010-12-18T17:38:00.000-05:00

"Little Miss Sunshine" could also be a description of Ava's personality, but on occasion something will annoy her and she has no problem letting me know. Since she was at my house when I took this picture, I can only assume I did something to displease her little self. God Bless!

I am looking for pictures of each of the grandkids with unusual expressions on their faces so I can make more layouts for Crabby Kid, a kit by Laura Banasiak and Jennifer Fox Designs which is available at DigiChick.

Ava makes muffins

2010-12-14T14:02:00.000-05:00

While Phil is doing training for a new job at his work, I have Ava three days a week instead of the usual one day a week. I like to do stuff with her but the weather is cold and snowy here. That's the time to turn on the oven and make some goodies. There's a small kid-size table which I brought into the kitchen. After cracking the eggs into the bowl I gave Ava a spoon to beat the eggs. Then she mixed the flour to get rid of the lumps and, finally, we added the blueberries to the mix. After a couple of attempts to get the batter into the muffin tin, I helper her out a little. Into the oven they went and the waiting began. Here's a pictorial story of our muffin-making.

The muffins were delicious, Ava was pleased with herself and even Burt had to have a bit! Wonderful, wonderful success!

Do you like the new look

2010-12-01T22:12:00.001-05:00

I signed up for the Blog Design Basics at Jessica Sprague and, voila, a new look. I'm still tweaking some little bits and pieces, but generally speaking, I like it very much.

When you gotta go, you gotta go!

2010-11-28T11:22:00.005-05:00

Ava is beginning the transition from little girl diapers to big girl panties! I just had to take some pics of her on Friday when she asked to use the potty. It's impossible to say no when they ask, isn't it?

I used the kit, Potty Like a Rock Star. It's a collab kit by Spinky Dink Scraps and simply.scraps. Also, the chart is from the Hybrid Add-on also available at Gotta Pixel.

I made this a long time ago and forgot to post it. My bad!

2010-11-27T07:40:00.003-05:00

I created this in the hopes of being published in a prestigious digi-magazine. It never happened, but, personally, I think it is one of the most beautiful layouts I've ever created and I want to share it with you now.

Credits:
Spring Garden Embossed Papers by Lindsay Jane.
Elements from Autumn Rain by KMESS.
Font: Pristina

Here's a page I made for the Speed Scrap with Connie Prince last night.

I used the kit, Sugar Plum, by Connie Prince. It's part of the Black Friday Grabbag at Gotta Pixel.

A is for Autumn

2010-11-23T12:19:00.002-05:00

And, unfortunately, we are saying goodbye to Autumn soon. As one last hurrah to Autumn, here's a layout I created using Crisdam Designs kit, A is for Autumn. It's our house in Thunder Bay, ON and when the leaves left the trees, it was time to crank up the fireplace. That's the most likely place you would find Hank, our first Devon Rex kitty. He loved to be warm and after 3 - 4 hours, he would sort of slide down the hearth like he was melted butter, just to cool off for a few minutes. It was always fun to watch him stretch and languish in front of the fire.

The journalling mat is from Write It Down 2 ~ Templates, also by Crisdam Designs. Both are currently available at Gotta Pixel at the sale prices of $2 and $1, respectively.

All I want for Christmas....

2010-11-21T22:56:00.002-05:00

Do you think Ava's old enough to dream about Santa Claus? I took this picture of her just before I had to wake her up from her nap last week. She sleeps like a dream and is just so pleasant, even when woken up by Gram-Gram.

I used the kit, Sweet Christmas by Connie Prince.

Gram-Gram has forgotten how to....

2010-11-18T13:49:00.002-05:00

help a little one get dressed! Ava is with me for the whole day on Wednesday's. We have great fun together and she sleeps like an angel when it's nap time. Every grandmother's gotta love that. Yesterday, after her nap it was time to change the diaper and fix her hair, etc. After getting the diaper changed I was helping her into her jeans and couldn't figure out what the heck was going on. I finally put on my glasses and discovered that I had gotten both legs into one leg-hole. Ava was happy to pose for me while I took these pictures. In the photo of her looking down, I can almost hear her thinking, "What's Gram-Gram trying to do to me?". I just had to capture this moment and share it with you here.

I used the November 2010 Grab Bag by Lindsay Jane which included the Dotted Borders and the kit, First Love.
The font is CAC Pinafore.

Let's Play House!

2010-11-16T12:53:00.003-05:00

Ava received this sweet little doll for her 2nd birthday last week. Every time you push the belly, the doll giggles and then Ava tries to imitate the giggle. It is just adorable to watch. She takes the doll to bed with her and hugs so tightly to her new baby.

I created this layout using In The Hood by Crisdam Designs. You can pick it up for just $2.00 at Gotta Pixel during the $1-$2 Pixel sales this week.

ED: The link to the word art file isn't working properly. I'll fix it up and re-post here when it's corrected. Sorry about that.

Are you Gonna Grab It?

2010-11-14T17:11:00.001-05:00

Gotta Pixel is having their GGI weekend through Tuesday when the designers put their products on sale for $1.00. Crisdam Designs is offering Morning Pleasures at $1.00 for the element pack and $1.00 for the paper pack. You can check out the Creative Team's work at Isabel's blog for more inspiration. For now here's a preview of the kit and a layout I created this morning.

So, if you didn't get enough shopping last weekend during DSD, the goodies continue through Tuesday at Gotta Pixel. Click here to see the offerings of all the designers at GP.