I Am Mikki

Good deeds

2012-01-21T08:40:00.000-08:00

As all of you know, I have a great love for Project Life, it's creator Becky Higgins is on my blog roll every day. Recently, she has been doing Feedback Friday where she answers all sorts of questions about her products, how-tos ect. The Friday closest to Christmas, she shared that life was turned upside down and there would be no Feedback Friday. She shared that a family friend had their 14 year old daughter fall out of a 2nd story window and break her spine. You can read their story here, what I didn't know was that this family already faced challenges because Claire is developmentally challenged.

The prognosis: Claire won't walk again. It appears that Claire is defying some of those odds, but it still looks like she will be spending quite a bit of time, if not the rest of her life in a wheelchair.

If you can, please help out this family, it doesn't have to be money. Go HERE you can donate via PayPal but Claire also loves mail too! Can you imagine the joy of getting fan mail and well wishes?! It's easy to do.

A Very Important Day

2012-01-11T21:23:00.001-08:00

Tonight, I read A Very Important Day to Kaylee and it really made me smile. I couldn't pronounce most of the names in the book, but there is an index in the back. The book follows families of all races, ethnicities and cultural backgrounds on their Very important Day in New York City.
Spoiler alert: Their big day is the one when they become a US citizen. It's patriotic story and I love that.

Project Life: week 1

2012-01-10T18:40:00.001-08:00

Week 1 of Project Life is here. This will be my 3rd year doing this project and I can't even express how happy I am that I have started this project. This year, Project Life seems to have exploded! EVERYONE in the scrapbook community seems to be jumping on board and this means that the inspiration is at an all-time high. Personally, I love seeing what others are doing with this wonderful product line but it's important too that I know that I'm not going to make this amazing work of art in every slot. I am making Project Life MY WAY and that is exactly how it should be!

I haven't used the date stamp very much, in fact, this kit doesn't actually come with the date stamp but I took out my unused date stamp from last years Amber Kit and decided to give it a shot. I like the effect but I don't know if I'll do it all the time.

For Christmas this year, I got an iPod Touch, the picture below was taken with Instagram. To print this photo I copied and pasted the photo into a 4x6 template in photoshop. It was too small initially so I resize it using the "Image Size" tab. I don't have any idea what the numbers calculate to, so I just winged it until it was sized good enough, then I hit Ctrl+T for a little additional resizing. I promise it was easy!

This is the right side of week 1. Yes, there are still blank spots. My photo printer is low on ink so I will be buying more soon and printing out vertical photos to fit in the slots.

Right side... sorry to cut off the last picture, but you get the idea.

Here is the journaling card put in the last journaling slot on the left side. I don't own a typewriter and I'm not that good with printing things fancy on my printer, so I did this the "Easy" way. I typed up the journaling in Microsoft Word, chose the font I wanted and printed it on a normal piece of paper. I put the card over the top of the journaling where I wanted it, added adhesive and ran it through again. BINGO!

I'm Going To Disneyland

2012-01-08T09:40:00.001-08:00

One Little Word 2012

2012-01-03T21:35:00.001-08:00

Better than resolutions are words. It's not something to "keep" or "fail" at after a week, it's something to be mindful of for a year. This year, it's 2 words. Choose Life. This year, I want to make the most of every day, they're not all adventure but they should matter. I want to go places and do thing and create experiences. In 2012, I choose life.

Zoo by Anthony Browne

2012-01-02T20:35:00.001-08:00

Tonight, Kaylee and I read Zoo by Anthony Browne. I do not recommend this book, while the pictures of animals were enticing, the book itself was although sometimes amusingly "true to life" it was overall very negative. A fighting family visits the zoo, the kid dislikes most of the exhibits and the final thought of "the zoo is a people exhibit, not an animal exhibit." is half thought out and a bit frightening. This is more of a pessimistic blog post with good art by the author rather than a kids book.

January 2, 2012

2012-01-02T19:27:00.001-08:00

This year, many of my friends have joined me doing Project365, it's awesome! I really hope they will enjoy it as much as I have.

Here is my picture:
Today was a beautiful day! It was in the 70s so we ate outside at Sonic and then went to the park.

January 1, 2012

2012-01-02T09:07:00.001-08:00

Another year of Project365 is a go. Here is my first picture of the year.

Saturday

2011-12-31T14:39:00.001-08:00

Quite often, Kaylee and I go to Burger King on Saturday, it's not my favorite as far as food goes but Kaylee likes the play place better and it's not as crowded.

Pasta Primavera

2011-12-29T21:44:00.001-08:00

Tonight's recipe was easy pasta primavera.
Prep took some time but overall it was very easy. It could have used some extra flavor but it was good and healthy.

December Daily 1-2-3

2011-12-04T14:09:00.001-08:00

I am doing December Daily as well as Project Life, so this is the way I have combine "week 1" of December Daily into my Project Life.

I am putting this page protector right in the middle of the week. I purchased a couple pieces of pattern paper for filler spots and to fill in the middle area. The numbers are also a piece of pattern paper that I am cutting out and adjusting to fit. I will be adding a "title card" to the upper left corner.

Here is a closer look at the picture from December 2nd. I will be adding journaling to the lined portion of pattern paper.

This particular page protector has spaces for 10 photos so I put most of the pictures from Saturday on the back along with a filler spot. The "3" block was rather big so I decided to spread it across 2 pictures along the top, I like how it turned out.
My December Daily will likely be light on journaling because I have journaling spots already in my Project Life album, so unless I have chosen dramatically different pictures from the ones I put in my normal album spots, I'm keeping it simple.
I am not worrying if I duplicate a picture from the December Daily pages to the Project Life layout. This is intended to be a fun project, so I'm doing my best to keep it fun and simple.

Photograph

2011-11-06T09:59:00.001-08:00

Dear Lizzy: December Daily SC Kit Giveaway

2011-11-01T20:09:00.000-07:00

Dear Lizzy: December Daily SC Kit Giveaway: December is such a spectacular time of year and the past few years I have joined with many of you to make a December Daily mini album. Decem...

Scrapbook Layout: Pool

2011-10-09T15:40:00.000-07:00

I created this layout of myself playing in my kidding pool because of a challenge for the October Layout-A-Day to scrapbook and old photo.

Scrapbook Layout: Jump!

2011-10-05T19:47:00.001-07:00

Scrapbook Layout: Cupcake Party

2011-10-03T19:06:00.000-07:00

Scrapbook Layout: Town Square w/ daddy

2011-10-02T18:27:00.000-07:00

Scrapbook Layout: You and Me

2011-10-01T09:26:00.000-07:00

featuring photography from the amazing and talented Scott Roeben

Scrapbook Layout: How Unique

2011-09-30T17:06:00.000-07:00

Lain Ehmann posted a scrapbook challenge and I was very eager to get started. The primary part of the challenge was to show that while we all have the same guidelines, products ect. the things that are created from that set of guidelines is amazing!

Create a scrapbook layout using the following materials:

one sheet of white cardstock
one sheet of red cardstock
one sheet of yellow cardstock
patterned paper with white, red, and yellow in it
two 4×6 photos
A page border of some sort
white letter stickers
journaling pen (or computer for journaling)

I used a white cardstock background and used it as the page border.
Red cardstock was used for the accent pieces
Yellow cardstock in the center
Pattern paper which I believe was purchased at Joann's
Thickers and "2" was from Hobby Lobby
Journaling

One Little Word: Trying to use Aperture

2011-09-12T18:34:00.000-07:00

I'm not trying something new exactly, every picture taken has to do with aperture, but I'm no expert and so experimenting with what I can do to take the pictures I want is important. Blurry background is the effect of the night.

MyMemories Suite Giveaway winner

2011-09-03T07:31:00.000-07:00

AND THE WINNER IS... Milie! I will be sending your claim code soon!

Project Life Tuesday: Birthday Edition

2011-08-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

To say this was a busy week is an understatement, but it was certainly a wonderful one! It was FULL of adventures and birthday stuff. Saturday was Kaylee's birthday party. Corwyn was kind enough to host it at his house and the kids has a great time swimming, playing with bubbles and of course everyone loved the cake! (cupcake cake from Walmart. Highly recommended! They taste good and they will split them into half white/half chocolate for $20)

Kaylee's big birthday surprise was her daddy coming into town. We woke up early, got dressed and went to the airport. We waited and waited until Mike arrived. Kaylee was shy at first but it wasn't long at all before she got super excited. We drove home where my parents had made us breakfast, followed by us opening presents. Kaylee's favorite was the dollhouse that Mike bought her. After she played for awhile, we went as a family to see Winnie the Pooh. Kaylee was very well behaved and had a wonderful time! Then we came home, watching Finding Nemo and took a nap. Once we woke up from our nap we went to Town Square to play on the playground, we had dinner at California Pizza Kitchen and before we left, I let Kaylee play in the fountain.

Mike invited me out to dinner on Monday night. We ate at a casual little pizza place, it was good food and nice conversation. I didn't get home until quite late.

I took the day off of work and we went as a family to the Shark Reef. Kaylee really loved seeing all the fish, but she didn't want to pet the sting ray's. Her favorite part was seeing the jelly fish! Afterwards we went to Atomic #7 for ice cream. Later that night as we were laying in bed she said "Mommy, I think next time we go to the shark place I will pet the sting ray's."

I took a half day at work and picked up Kaylee from daycare so that we could spend some times with Mike before we had to take him to the airport. Kaylee had a great time, but because she missed nap, she passed out before we got to the airport.

Holly landed here in Las Vegas, only to discover that her shoe had broken so before we went to dinner, we made a quick stop at Payless. Holly found a pair of white sandals, they were a grown up version of Kaylee's! We ate at Firefly which was SO GOOD! At dinner Holly questioned me about the Cosmopolitan parking garage I'd been going on about (without telling her anything) so I showed Holly in person. Then we walked around and just hung out. The Cosmopolitan is definitely my favorite Hotel/Casino.

This was a very quick stop over but at least Holly will be back next Sunday. We woke up on Saturday morning and just decided to start driving since she didn't have to be to the airport until 10:30. We ended up at Einstein Bagels and boy were they good! Afterwards we drove the length of the strip, to downtown and back again before dropping Holly off at the airport.

This week, I also had the pleasure of hosting my VERY FIRST scrapbook giveaway. I am absolutely honored that someone in the scrapbooking community offered me this great opportunity. Please visit the MyMemories digital scrapbooking blog post to enter!

Review & Giveaway: MyMemories Digital Scrapbooking Software

2011-08-29T01:00:00.000-07:00

I was given the amazing opportunity to use the MyMemories Digital Scrapbooking Suite.
I want to give a big THANK YOU! to MyMemories and let you guys know that this is definitely THE MOST EXCITING blog post you have read here yet!

Review: MyMemories Digital Scrapbooking Software

I am definitely not a digital scrapbooker, I have not done a lot of digital scrapbooking... in fact, I could probably fit all of my digital scrapbooking layouts into a single album, that being said; it's definitely something I am interested in learning more about. Digital Scrapbooking is a fantastic way to preserve your memories without buying a ton of products, making a big mess and one of the best things about digital scrapbooking is that it's mobile.

If you haven't tried digital scrapbooking, I definitely recommend trying it.
I know this line will sound cheesy, but I'd really recommend you start out using MyMemories Suite. Why? A lot of digital scrapbookers use Adobe Photoshop, I have used for various things for many years now and when you're just starting out it's really overwhelming. MyMemories Digital Scrapbooking Software allowed me to create a beautiful scrapbook page and I didn't have to stress about any of the features. MyMemories was so easy to use! In minutes I felt like I knew my way around the software.

MyMemories allowed me the luxury of either using one of many templates or creating your own from scratch. The software comes with several templates and there are a lot of them available for purchase on their website. There are many digital kits so your scrapbooking can keep growing instead of having to use the same things over and over.
I created this layout using one of the templates that came with the software. You have the option of doing an "auto-fill", but I chose to pick and place the pictures myself. It was simple to swap pictures from place to place, add text and add/move embellishments. I found that after a very easy download and install process, I was able to easily jump right in and create a beautiful layout.

Once my layout was complete, the sharing process was a breeze! MyMemories allows you to share your albums as a .jpg, which is easy for adding to a blog, E-mail or using as your desktop background. In addition, you can create a photo album (much like the photobooks you might create on Shutterfly). Once you have a complete album, just follow a few easy step by step instructions in the program itself and your albums is ready for purchase. My favorite share feature is the iPod movie option!! Just follow a few easy step by step instructions and POW! you have your digital scrapbook album on your iPod. If you're looking to send your album to friends, family or just for archive purposes there is a Burn to DVD option. I am so impressed with MyMemories Suite's variety in sharing options.

If you are interested in seeing more detail, this video will show you more about the MyMemories Suite, features on the website and about the software itself.

Welcome to the Family! from Lisa Jurrens on Vimeo.

Scrapbook challenges play a huge part in my scapbooking. MyMemories Blog offers weekly challenges! I absolutely love having a scrapbooking community that I can visit when the mojo isn't flowing. They have a Facebook (it's new and improved!): MyMemories Facebook or you can follow them on Twitter @MyMemoriesSuite.

Now, the moment you've all been waiting for.... THE GIVEAWAY!
Here is your chance to win the MyMemories Suite Digital Scrapbooking Software. I am giving away one (1) copy of MyMemories Suite; all you have to do is visit the MyMemories Website and tell me which one of the scrapbooking kits, free downloads or templates is your favorite.

In the comments leave:
Name
City & State
Your favorite item offered by MyMemories
It's that easy!

The giveaway will end at midnight Pacific Time on Thursday September 1st and I will announce the winner on Friday.

I also have a special offer for you. Get a $10 discount off of MyMemories Suite digital scrapbooking software using the PROMO code STMMMS26839

Black & White Photography meetup

2011-08-16T14:27:00.001-07:00

Week in the Life Page - Wednesday

2011-08-12T08:56:00.001-07:00

A Week in the Life Page: Monday

2011-08-04T20:35:00.001-07:00

I am working on bringing it all together for my Week in the Life album. Here is my layout for Monday.

One Little Word: Trying to shoot Black & White

2011-08-03T18:34:00.000-07:00

I belong to a local photography meetup group called "Vegas Creative Group" and they posted a meetup called "The World in Black & White... Vegas Style!" the meetup will be held in downtown Las Vegas, very likely one of the most colorful places you can find here in Vegas, and everything shot will be in black and white.
I have never shot Black & White with my digital camera before and now seemed like the best time to learn. I wasn't even sure if my camera shot in black and white, so I went online and did a search. All the reviews pointed to "Yes" and "It's easy!" so I downloaded the manual and found the color setting for Black and White. Here is my Black & White "test shot", it is a very emo shot. I'm sure if I was better at photoshop, it could look even better and more emo.Today's B&W picture of the day.

A Week in the Life - Saturday

2011-07-31T12:20:00.001-07:00

We went to Toys R Us so that I could get ideas about what Kaylee wants for her birthday. Kaylee loved lining up the stuffed giraffes.

Ballet today was "Pinkalicious!", Kaylee's favorite bedtime story. Kaylee didn't want to participate the entire time, instead, she opted to sit and watch for some of the time.

Our playdate with Mrs. Brandy, this week we opted for Burger King. It was decided that although it's much more crowded, we prefer the McDonald's instead. Better food, cheaper prices, and there's wifi.

Scrapbook Layout: Wizard of Oz Shoes

2011-07-29T20:18:00.000-07:00

Technically this is a "Hybrid" layout. Part paper scrapbooking and part digital scrapbooking. I am not a fan of digital scrapbooking but I am positively DYING to get this layout on the page! I am going to complete my page just as soon as I can get the picture seen above printed in 5x7. I used to pieces of cardstock (both Red just a slightly lighter shade for the letters), my cricut "Learning Curve" font, sticker letters from Colorbok, Becky Higgins Creating Keepsakes font for the journaling.

This layout was done as part of the lovely Lain Ehmann's Define Your Style A to Z class.

The challenge: Create a layout completely done with cardstock. No embellishments, nothing more than cardstock, pen, rub-ons, and letter stickers. I am stumped! Honestly, I've been thinking of how to pull off a cardstock only layout that wasn't boring since the beginning of July.

Then last night, as I was watching Project Runway, I saw a commercial for a Mexican restaurant here in town, I'd mention the name but I was so struck by inspiration that everything else went blank. There was a lime in the logo... it was Mexican food. It was like a bolt of lightning! I HAD TO MAKE THIS LAYOUT!

A Week in the Life - Thursday

2011-07-28T20:45:00.000-07:00

A Week in the Life - Wednesday

2011-07-28T19:21:00.001-07:00

Sitting outside waiting for a space to open up at sushi

Kaylee rushing into school

Breakfast

Bedtime story time

Scrapbook Layout: Ballet

2011-07-28T18:55:00.001-07:00

Week In The Life - Tuesday

2011-07-27T07:22:00.000-07:00

"No Mommy, don't take pictures of my eggs"

Rise and shine!

Into the carseat all by herself

A mid day break to take our lawyer from work to the airport

Driving home

Picking up Kaylee from school

Kaylee's morning routine with Grammy

After work computer time

Kaylee watches TV while I read

Currently reading: Slaughterhouse - Five

Making houses out of blocks for Kaylee's animals

Our water heater went out so we've been boiling water and putting it in a tub for Kaylee's bath.

Project Life Tuesday

2011-07-26T07:26:00.000-07:00

A hug from Grammy

Ballet: Princess and the Pea

Kaylee hates loud noises.

We got new bed sheets... everyone had to come up on the bed to see

Me and my Kaylee

A Week in the Life - Monday

2011-07-26T07:20:00.000-07:00

Scrapbook Layout: Easter

2011-07-24T11:14:00.001-07:00

Scrapbook Layout: First Friday

2011-07-19T20:15:00.000-07:00

Lain Ehmann's A to Z Layout A Day inspired this layout. This is my layout for "B" which includes brads. (you can see them sorta in the upper left hand corner). This class is so inspirational! I am really loving it, I highly recommend it!

Movie Review: Hall Pass

2011-07-19T17:42:00.000-07:00

I had seen the previews for Hall Pass and while it looked funny, I wasn't expecting much more than a stupid comedy with little plot aside from 2 "old married guys" attempting to get laid by 20-somethings.

What I got was a very pleasant surprise! I laughed out loud multiple times and the plot was not only thought out, but well executed. This movie was a lot of fun to watch, even the parts that I "expected" from this film left me feeling as thought they had been done well. I also found the acting performances were great too, yes they had "typical" moments that I would expect from these leading actors but honestly it works in a great way!

Check out this comedy, it's well worth watching.

Scrapbook Layout: Garden Girl

2011-07-17T15:08:00.000-07:00

Scrapbook Layout: Bellagio 2007

2011-07-15T16:10:00.001-07:00

Book Review: Heaven is for Real

2011-07-12T12:44:00.000-07:00

I will start out this book review by stating that I am not a religous person. I do not regularly attend church. I am not one who believes that miracles and good things in life are gods doing, personally, I prefer to believe in the goodness of others. I believe that you should do good, be good and believe in things not for the sake of "god" but for the sake of you. I am not saying religion is bad, but I prefer in my own life to believe in the goodness of people, being good for the sake of being a good person and if heave IS real, that would be amazing, but I'm not going to live as though living will lead me straight to hell.

I would recommend this book to everyone, religous or not. The book begins by telling a gut-wrenching story of a family who nearly loses their son. It will make any parent to tears. (no I didn't cry, but it was an emotional thing to read). I can not even begin to feel how this family must have felt watching their sons life draining, literally at the brink of death.

It should be said that the father, who narrorates this story, is a paster. This point was important for multiple reasons, but it also meant I had a few doubts along the way. The "miracle" of money coming from far and wide after the church spread the news of the pasters son being deathly ill, in my mind wasn't a "miracle", instead it showed to me the power of people. People willing to network and assist a family in dire need of money and assistance in other ways. It was touching, but not an act from god.

Colton, the boy, begins to relay slowly information about his journey to heaven. Although I read this book with skepticism, reading about how Jesus looked, for example wasn't "amazing that a four-year old could describe Jesus." especially with his father being a Paster, the image of Jesus is everywhere. It was other things that he did or said, so matter-a-factly that really caught me.
Colton's stories about the things he had witnessed and his journey to heaven was undoubtedly amazing. There are many parts in this book which are simply undeniable, the innocence of a child describing the things he had seen and done in heaven were incredible. There is a way that children speak when they are making things up, there are ways that children speak when they have been dreaming and then there is the undeniable way that kids express truth, often very matter-a-factly which is how at many points this little boy expresses things about heaven. It's quite shocking at times.

This is a fun journey with a lovely family who went through something no family should have to come close to encountering. It's delightful to hear this little boy speak, and admittedly a bit reassuring. Overall, a good and quick read that believer or not, will leave you thinking that perhaps heaven IS real.

Project Life Tuesday

2011-07-12T07:18:00.000-07:00

Friday morning, I arrived at work, and about 10 minutes into my shift, the power went out. It stayed out for about an hour and a half. It was definitely the most exciting thing to happen on that Friday but we were all a bit disappointed that we didn't get to go home.
Every Morning, Kaylee says hello to "Vanilla" the class pet fish.

Bye bye Panda, I'll miss you! Back home to Scotland she went, hopefully we'll get her back soon.

Kaylee and Papa playing ants in the pants.

I did a bit of organizing. I put all of my scrapbook magazines together in date order. I have issues all the way from 2005. I looked through an issue from 2007, it was really fun to look at "old" scrapbooking but the ideas still hold up. There was an article from Ali Edwards, her son Simon was so young! There was also a picture of Jessica Turner. It was a lot of fun going down scrapbook memory lane.

Scrapbook Layout: Dumbo

2011-07-09T11:15:00.001-07:00

Book Review: My Horizontal Life by Chelsea Handler

2011-07-07T15:41:00.001-07:00

"My Horizontal Life" by Chelsea Handler is a funny, embarassing and a very easy read. Chelsea has a wonderful way of storytelling. She has an amazingly good and funny way of explaining situations that would make me want to crawl under a rock for several years. This book spans sexual adventures, embarassing friends and alcohol. Overall, I found myself laughing out loud on many occasions. These are the type of tales I would expect to hear being told by some of my friends at a part. This was a lot of fun to read, I got through it in a week, and I'm a slow reader. I would recommend this amusing book to most of my friends, but I understand that it's not for everyone. If you're not into sex, alcohol and occassional drug use, you may want to skip over this book even if it is good for a laugh. Chelsea's stories are funny and memorable, I enjoyed sharing in the laughs, mishaps and sometimes down right humiliating tales.

Project Life Tuesday: Weekend Edition

2011-07-05T07:43:00.001-07:00

Sunday, I took Kaylee to Town Square. She played in the fountain and then we went to pick up Karine. We came back for lunch at Claim Jumper, more playing and finally ice cream!

Monday, we began out day with Mickey Mouse pancakes and ended with swimming. By the end of the pool party, Kaylee was jumping off the diving board all by herself! She didn't even require someone underneath to catch her.

Saturday at Ballet, Kaylee got to be cowgirl Jessie! She was so excited and had a wonderful time!

Photo Friday: Soft Focus

2011-07-04T20:56:00.001-07:00

Movie Review: KimJongilia

2011-07-04T10:36:00.001-07:00

I discovered this documentary while browsing for movies to watch on Netflix Watch Instantly. There were a lot of good reviews and on another movie site I frequent, many people expressed that this was one of the best documentaries on North Korea out there.

This movie is a series of interviews with people who have escaped from North Korea and from it's dictator Kim Hong II. It is no secret that he is a mad man, isolating his country from the rest of the globe, rationing food and resources. I was however very unaware of the concentration style work camps they had set up around the country.

This documentary is incredibly powerful, it's heartbreak to hear what each and every person interviewed had to go through just to gain basic freedoms. "We didn't leave because we wanted to, we fled because we had to." was a very good synopsis of this documentary. North Korean people are forced to worship their dictator as a god, but the sentiment of those who escape is overwhelming hate for the country of their birth. Each of them said if Kim Jong II was out of power and they would switch to democracy and not have to fear starvation and public execution, that they would absolutely go back. Sadly, the tales being told in this documentary aren't new information. I knew most of the information going in, unfortunately nothing has yet been done about this savage dictator.

I recommend this documentary, even if the stories are heartbreaking, it's done very well.

Scrapbook Layout: Raggity Ann

2011-07-04T09:08:00.001-07:00

Book: Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz

2011-07-02T17:52:00.000-07:00

On Father's Day I got my dad a Kindle. It was something he had wanted for a long time and I saved up my Swagbucks. My dad is okay with computers but I figured he'd ask me a few questioned along the way, so I did what I could since I don't own a Kindle myself. I downloaded the app onto my iTouch. This was one of the smartest things I have done in quite awhile. I was concerned about reading on my iTouch but it has been amazing! I wanted to try the Kindle app, but I wasn't about to pay $5 to find out I wasn't going to read the book, so I went to the free section.

Free on the Kindle: Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz.

I love the movie The Wizard of Oz so the novelization seemed like a great place to start. I want to begin by saying that, that was my basis for downloading the book. I liked the movie The Wizard of Oz.

Chapter 1: The Earthquake. I felt as though it was strange to change natural disasters from book to screen so dramatically but I continued on. Next up, she had just come from seeing her Uncle Henry in Australia, not Kansas. Also, this took place in California and not Kansas.

I read a chapter or so into the book and my mind was whirling with all the differences and furthermore, as they were falling into what appeared to be Oz, she remembered nothing and made no mention of her prior adventures. I felt as though I was reading something more Alice in Wonderland than Wizard of Oz, and while the book was quite enjoyable, I found myself thrown off a good deal.
My next step was to go to Wikipedia, I was complete unaware that there were a good deal more Oz books than I was aware of by L Frank Baum. Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz was the 4th book in the Oz series. Wikipedia also let me know that L Frank Baum had no concern with continuity, in fact he actually said that he was telling the Oz stories for the amusement of kids and continuity meant very little to him. Now that that matter was cleared up, I continued on.

This book is a very easy book to read, even the made-up names of lands and creatures are easy to understand. This was a wonderful adventure, not just to Oz but to other lands as well, full of wonderful characters. Often times, characters are met and created and then abandoned within a chapter or two, but it always felt like they brought something fun and unique to the story. I felt like the book had a very good flow.

There was also a good deal of intrigue to keep you hooked from chapter to chapter. I am impressed with the authors ability to have the main characters join a world each vastly different from the next but that there isn't a lingering feeling or the feeling of being rushed. First, you go through many lands where the main characters experience amazing and thrilling situations. Eventually, they end up in Oz, which was the only point in the story when I felt like it was a little "we're screwed." "Oh but wait! I didn't tell you that I can fix everything!" *Happily ever after*, getting to Oz felt that way but it was a minor glitch in what from start to finish was an enjoyable journey that kept me wanting to continue reading.

I am not a fast reader, and this book kept me turning pages. I finished this book in roughly a week. This is the first book I have completed in roughly 3 years and I owe a great deal of that feat to my Kindle app.

One Little Word: Trying to review

2011-07-02T17:49:00.000-07:00

My "One Little Word" is try... and this blog definitely falls short of being much of anything. I'm going to try something new and do reviews. Someone wrote me a very nice message on Yelp! saying that I wrote good reviews and he'd come over to my blog and liked my photos, it was flattering. He suggested that I write review on my blog along with photos. I don't go out to eat a whole lot, but I do do other things, so I'm going to try my hand at writing review on stuff. Books, Movies, and food (if I remember to snap a few photos).

Scrapbook Layout: Perfect Day

2011-07-02T17:48:00.001-07:00

MotherLOAD

2011-06-28T07:27:00.001-07:00

The MotherLOAD Scrapbook Marathon with @lainehmann starts 6/30. http://tinyurl.com/bpcmotherload Use code load2011 for $20 off!

Some Team Disney Layouts

2011-06-24T20:00:00.001-07:00

Disneyland!

2011-06-15T19:01:00.001-07:00

Our adventure began early, for some folks as early at 9:30pm. This trip was for 31 adults, and for a group that large, organization is absolutely necessary. Our bus wasn’t due to arrive until 12:30am but in order to ensure no one was left behind, we got started early. There was a bar/restaurant in the same parking lot so it was the perfect place. We moved to the area of the parking lot where the bus was due to pick us up around midnight.
The bus arrived and we were on our way to Disneyland! We arrived in Anahiem around 5:30am, our kind bus driver asked us what we wanted to do until the park opened. The temperatures were slightly lower than some had anticipated so we opted to make a stop at WalMart for hoodies and happily, we discovered there was also a McDonald’s in the WalMart so we were able to have breakfast as well.
It was perfectly timed and we arrived to the park just in time for rope drop! I was very excited to find that the Alice in Wonderland crew were just inside the park. I can’t resist getting my picture taken with the A-Team!
Although, the Queen of Hearts wasn’t very pleased with me... especially when I attempted a hug. She was not amuse.
First thing was first, we made a mad dash for the Star Tours FastPass line!
Next up! Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough
Snow White’s Scary Adventure followed and then it was time for Peter Pan’s Flight. There were A LOT of us... we took up A LOT of the queue!
Our trip to Disneyland may be wild, but I’m not sure it can quite compare to Mr Toad!
This is the 4th time we have gone as a group to Disneyland. Dumbo has always been a part of the itinerary. The 1st TeamDisney was the first time I had ever been on Dumbo, and even as an adult it’s enjoyable. I have received several compliments and “Thank You”s from my friends after getting off of both Dumbo and King Arthur’s Carousel, as an adult they don’t think riding the kiddie rides would be fun and they end up having a blast!
After a trip to get our Mouse ears, it was time to ride the tea cups! A shout out to the CM who was operating the teacups, he was a lot of fun and gave our group a few shout outs and made the experience just that much more magical.
followed by Alice in Wonderland!
We were making amazing time! so there was time for 1 more ride before lunch, so it was off to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad!
and of course I had to take a picture of the “hidden Mickey” cactus!
We made reservations for Blue Bayou, party of 27! Blue Bayou was absolutely amazing. Everyone loved their food, there were rave reviews on the desserts (especially the Creme Brulee) I had the chocolate cake, it was shared by 5 people and it tasted wonderful! The cast members who assisted us with our service at Blue Bayou were also exceptional. A very big kudos to them for handling a party of 27 adults. They even gave us the great suggestion of splitting up by Varsity and Junior Varsity (which we took as a great opportunity to throw around a few high schoolish insults).
The steak is simply TO DIE FOR!, however I am a tiny person and don’t eat very much. My friend, who is also very tiny and I shared the meal. There is a $12 split-plate charge (although they were ready to give us our own plates without the charge if we hadn’t mentioned it for the sake of wanting differing sides), since this actually saved money, it allowed her to get dessert and I got the lightup Buzzlight year drink.
We met up afterwards for Pirates of the Carribean. I will begin with an “I’m Sorry” if anyone happened to be in the park at that time. We piled onto the boat and off we went... we got to the top of the 1st drop and we were stuck. The CM got on the announcements “Everyone shift to the left... now to the right... now to the left again... Yeah, you’re stuck. We’ll send someone to get you.” we actually had to throw our weight forward as well to get the boat to go over the edge. It was a blast!
Haunted Mansion was next, and the line was short! I rode alone in a doom buggy during this ride and I actually noticed a lot of things I hadn’t noticed before, part of me thought “is that new”? but I figure it’s just because I’d been caught up in riding with someone else or was on a different side of the doom buggy. Strangely enough, I’d not noticed the birthday setting in the ballroom last year if it was there... or at least I don’t remember it. At the end, the ghost ended up sitting in my lap, so I gave him a quick squeeze before getting off of the ride, those poor ghosts don’t get enough hugs. I also stopped to notice the deep laugh on the speaker as you leave which I’d read about from a Samland post a few weeks ago.
We were making excellent time so we grabbed our FastPass for Splash Mountain and took another trip on Big Thunder! It was also a nice way to delay our trip slightly since one of our team got called away for a work phone call =(
Next up was Matterhorn, which I managed not to time very well since the parade was going by, so getting to the Matterhorn (through Fantasyland) was a nightmare. They had set up ropes but it was awfully confusing finding out which section led to where and which direction you were supposed to be going, but we got there and Matterhorn was a blast! I can’t wait until next year when they have the new bobsleds.
Our Splash Mountain time had arrived! I made one of the smartest decisions I have ever made and brought an entire change of clothes. I wore a tank top under my T-shirt, brought a pair of short and flip-flops (changed in the bathroom at Hungry Bear) and left everything with a friend who didn’t want to ride. The change of clothes worked out amazingly! I dried off pretty quickly after the ride even though I exited the ride soaked and was able to change back into jeans and T-Shirt with no discomfort afterwards. We had rented a locker, which we stopped at just before Splash Mountain so there was no issue with carrying around items. I highly recommend this!
Next up: Soundsational!
I really enjoyed Sounsational. It was high energy, the songs were good, the performers did a wonderful jobs, the floats were beautiful. I did feel like the parade was long, but it wasn’t necessarily a bad thing. I’ve heard people say there wasn’t a big finish to Soundsational and while there wasn’t a “WOW!!!” moment everyone was singing along with Supercalafragalistic!
Finally, it was time for StarTours: The Adventure Continues. I loved seeing all the new things in the queue, especially since it was my first time going on the new Star Tours I really loved discovering all the new things they’d added.
My favorite, was R2D2 wearing Mickey Mouse ears! Very cute!! Now it was time for the real challenge! I have incredibly poor vision, to the point where I am almost legally blind so I was incredibly skeptical about the ride being 3D, right down to the point that I had debated not going on the ride at all. I AM SO GLAD I DID! For the first time in my life, I was able to see 3D! Thank you! Kudos!! and a round of applause for Disney!
The ride was very enjoyable, although it felt VERY short. The “Rebel spy” gag at the beginning was a lot of fun, they chose someone from my group. This was particularly humorous because they chose the girl whom most of us had never met before, we flew her in from Scotland and so we had a great time heckling her. I really enjoyed Hoth, and I was impressed how the ride incorporate both new and old episodes of Star Wars.

We broke into groups for dinner. 5 of us went to Cafe Orleans. It was SOOO GOOD! Last time I ate there it was on a cold, damp February night and everywhere else was packed solid. I will admit that I felt like “the most amazing dinner in the entire world ever” may have been circumstantially good, however, I was pleased to discover that the food was just simply wonderful. We began with Pommes Frites... wow! Just WOW! They were just as good as I remembered, which is almost unfortunate since I haven’t been able to find anything comparable since then. We also drank some hot chocolate, this was another item on the menu I believed was only good in the moment, since before and after I haven’t liked any hot chocolate I have tasted. I was again mistaken! The hot chocolate is outstanding. I commented about this to the CM who was serving us and she let me in on the secret. (and I’m not telling). I had the salad for dinner which was delightful.

Now it was off to an attraction that I was SUPER DUPER EXCITED ABOUT!! The Disney Gallery! Mary Blair is my favorite so I was very happy when I found out that her work was being displayed in the Disney Gallery. I was even more excited when I heard about the Print-on-Demand feature!
I purchased a print of this and I was very pleased by the price only being $30 (including shipping). The CM at the gallery was particularly lovely listening to my excited ramblings about my adoration of Mary Blair.
I missed the amazing spot for fireworks that I had scoped out, but I had seen Magical! before so I was perfectly happy missing most of the fireworks for Mary Blair and pleased that the newbies got a killer spot. I actually caught a few of them from the circle near the entrance of the park. It was a pretty good spot actually.
Afterwards, we rushed over to Fantasmic!
I absolutely love Fantasmic! It’s a great show. Afterwards, we met up with the people who opted for “More rides!” over “Fireworks and shows” at Space Mountain, unfortunately the ride was down so we went over to Indiana Jones instead, this was the 1st time I have ever been on Indiana where all of the effects works as they were intended. A fun thrill ride! We still had a little while before midnight so we took a ride on Jungle Cruise, I believe the CM was a bit confused by the boats enthusiasm but she gave a great tour. No members were lost, eaten or hunted.
I made a trip to StarTrader to buy Yoda at the 40in sign... I’d passed it up originally, but knew I’d regret it if I didn’t. I found out it’s also a bobblehead! My last stop on my way out was at the churro cart. A wonderful end to an exciting trip. We got to the Pinocchio lot where the bus picked us up and I fell asleep before we left the parking lot. I woke up 5 minutes outside of Vegas. Another amazing trip to Disneyland! SEE YOU NEXT YEAR!

2011-06-09T09:36:00.001-07:00

The anxiety dreams have begun for Disney, last night was us only getting on the 2nd ride by 11am. LOL

Scrapbook Layout: Hidden Mickey

2011-04-22T11:29:00.000-07:00

Can you find the Hidden Mickey?

This layout will be "auctioned" at the upcoming TeamDisney fundraiser event. The black box in the middle is made to fit a 4x6 photograph with a little bit of a border.

Project Life Tuesday

2011-04-19T07:12:00.000-07:00

Sunday was my friend Adina's wedding. She looked beautiful!

Finding a dress for the wedding was a... challenge. This was the 3rd dress I purchased. I felt bad doing so many exchanges but the others didn't fit right or "looked funny" on. This one was just right. I found the flower for my hair at Claire's

It is so exhausting being 3 1/2 years old! Kaylee came home from school and fell asleep almost immediately and didn't wake up until morning.

Kaylee "helped me" put together this 150 piece puzzle. It took me a little under an hour.

Digital Scrapbook Layout: Purple

2011-04-16T10:20:00.001-07:00

Project Life Tuesday

2011-04-12T07:23:00.001-07:00

Photo Friday: Rides

2011-04-09T19:01:00.000-07:00

Altered Placemat

2011-04-06T21:51:00.000-07:00

I haven't actually decided if this is complete or not, but I really think it is. Although I may frame it in a white frame for hanging.

Project Life Tuesday

2011-04-05T07:30:00.000-07:00

Sunday we went to Bonnie Springs. Kaylee had a great time!

Saturday we went to the Lied Children's Discovery Museum which is becoming a favorite place for Kaylee.

We got all dressed up for First Friday. Kaylee and I even had people stop and compliment how cute we looked.

A walk to the park

We went over to Brian's to play Dungeons and Dragons with Kaylee. Kaylee really loves playing and it's a great way to improve imagination and help her learn number identification.

Kaylee helped make tuna sandwiches for lunch

Another picture from the Lied Discovery Museum

Scrapbook Layout: Bracket shape

2011-03-31T18:15:00.000-07:00

The bracket shape is "all the rage" with scrapbooking. I personally have never done a page with the shape, it has nothing to do with not liking the shape but I haven't been able to find it in the big chain stores like Michael's, Joann's or Hobby Lobby. Thankfully I located a FANTASTIC scrapbooking store which I thought had gone out of business. Scrappin' Time has everything on every subject you could imagine! If you live in Las Vegas, I highly suggest you visit. I found a piece of bracket paper ($1.10) and a piece of patterned paper from clearance at Hobby Lobby ($.14) I traced the bracket paper on the backside of the paper and cut my own. LOVE IT! I will be doing this again in the future.

See It Sunday: Camera

2011-03-27T08:06:00.000-07:00

Project Life Tuesday

2011-03-15T19:01:00.000-07:00

I have been complete rubbish at keeping up lately, which is a shame because we've been doing a lot of fun things lately, so instead of detailing this past week. I'm just going to post pictures of things we've done recently.
Note!!! At the bottom of this page (the last picture) does contain mild nudity. Sorry!

Quote of the Day from work last Thursday "I thought I knew what I was doing until it broke." I feel like that should be the quote of the year.
I came home from work and Kaylee gave me this flower. She had spent the day with Grammy and when they went to Hobby Lobby she saw this flower and immediately wanted to buy it for me. She was apparently very sweet but very insistent about it. Very sweet girl I have.
Sunday brunch with friends, once the camera came out Jamie hid... and Rich helps. What pesky friends I have!
Mishie celebrated her birthday at Burger Bar. The wait was long but it gave us time to explore the new candy shop that opened inside Mandelay Bay. "Lick" was really neat. I made it out without spending any money but seriously considered many items, particularly the GIANT gummy bear.

NOT SAFE FOR WORK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I really hope no one gets offended or in trouble. I went to a photography meetup at First Friday and this was the model. She posed like this for a good 10 or so minutes. She did a great job and I got several good shots. Most of them showing more nudity than this one. I also met some really great people. Kaylee even made friends with the gallery owner's daughter.

Scrapbook Layout: Whimsical Park

2011-02-21T15:10:00.001-08:00

Project Life | Week Seven

2011-02-21T14:12:00.001-08:00

Photo Friday: Contrast

2011-02-20T08:38:00.000-08:00

Old fashioned lamp with an energy efficient light bulb.

Shutterday: Candle

2011-02-19T21:35:00.000-08:00

Scrapbook Layout: Amore

2011-02-15T18:53:00.000-08:00

The bling scanned silver but it's actually the perfect coordinating pink.

Project Life Tuesday

2011-02-14T18:48:00.000-08:00

Another Project Tuesday is upon us.

February is just flying by! Yesterday, my mom and I were watching Extreme Home Makeover and my mom commented about a new show coming on "That's coming on in 2 weeks?" Me "No, it starts March 5th... oh wow that is in 2 weeks." Time flies when you're having fun!

Sunday, there was a Chinese New Year Festival at Chinatown Plaza. It was a fun event. The entertainment was fantastic! Kaylee really enjoyed herself. It was loud during some parts, but even though she had her ears covered she still smiled, danced and clapped.

Our last stop of the day was to the "99 market". I love going in there and seeing all of the international foods that they have. I don't know what half of them are but the textures and colors and labels are fantastic!

This guy made 4000+ noodles while on stage.

Saturday, Corwyn, Jim and I went to the Natural History Museum. Kaylee had a good time looking at all the different things.

Becky Higgins issued a photo challenge of "Work". This wasn't my pictures but Ariel caught that I was snapping pictures around the office and we snapped a picture together.

Papa and Kaylee watching Toy Story 3

Kaylee decided to read "Ife you give a mouse a cookie" to Morris and Woody for a bedtime story.

Kaylee walking down the halls of her school (daycare).

Kaylee and Grammy

Last Sunday, it was nice enough that we could go to the park. Kaylee got these two teenage girls to play with her the entire time. It was very sweet of them, but I was also very surprised how Kaylee commanded the situation. Everyone had a great time!

Photo Challenges

2011-02-13T21:12:00.000-08:00

See It Sunday - Noise

Thursday Challenge - Texture

VFXY - Fresh

Scrapbook Layout: Vogue

2011-02-11T18:29:00.001-08:00

I had ever intention of using "Vogue" as my title. It was the intention from the moment I heard about this challenge... then I opened the sticker package and the "V"s all looked like "u"s. It was destined to be titled "Strike A Pose"!
Background created using homemade rub-ons.

Project Life Tuesday

2011-02-07T17:48:00.000-08:00

The time has come again! Project Life Tuesday. I absolutely love this project, it's been over a year now and I have had so much fun sharing Project Life, I'm so glad I am doing it again this year in 2011. This month is already shaping up to be full of adventure!
Saturday, Kaylee's school arranged for a day at the Lied Discovery Museum. I am so thankful that Kaylee goes to a school which provides such wonderful opportunities. We arrived at the museum and Kaylee saw her friends immediately and was very excited! They sat down and watched a little program, sang along, danced along and participated which was really cute. Afterwards they got to play in the play area for younger kids, which Kaylee loved! The parents sat in on an early development teaching thing, nothing I didn't already know but ah well... then we got to explore the museum. I got to meet one of Kaylee's friends parents, they had 2 kids with 1 on the way and in chatting with them, I knew a ton more about things to do in the community. I didn't realize how many cool things Kaylee and I did together that most families don't.

My One Little Word for 2011 is "Try". Tonight I tried 2 things in 1 event! I joined a photography meetup and this was the first event I attended. It was set up very spur of the moment but I was excited to attend. It was billed as an Editorial photo shoot which was something I had never done before. At 5pm on Thursday I noticed that no models had confirmed to attend and we weren't even sure the venue had been notified. There was nothing I could do about the venue but I did throw a few things in my backpack in case they were in need of some models. Turns out they were! I got a chance to model, something I have never really done, and I had a great time! The bottom shot is a photo I took of my friend Bryan who (I found out when I arrived) was a member of the meetup community.

Kaylee loves bathtime. Tonight she got so excited, she got into the tub with her shirt still on.

Kaylee getting ready for her bath.

Kaylee enjoying a tuna sandwich after church.

My grandpa on the front page of the Sports section

2011-01-30T13:28:00.000-08:00

My dad just brought in the sports page of the Las Vegas Review Journal, and there as the biggest story in the Sunday paper is my grandpa, Tony Knap, former head coach at UNLV. http://www.lvrj.com/sports/unlv-memories-most-vivid-for-knap-114891659.html

I am so proud to see my grandpa making the front page of the sports section at 96 years old! Proud also seems like such a silly word to describe it, as though it is not enough or even funny for me to say I am proud to be the granddaughter of someone who is so accomplish. In more than 27 years, no one has upheld his record seasons.

Scrapbook Layout: A Big of Monochrome

2011-01-30T10:44:00.001-08:00

Inspired by

Project Life Tuesday

2011-01-24T18:42:00.000-08:00

I have been doing Project Life since 2010 and let me tell you, it has been so much fun! In addition, it has really been great seeing all of life's events. Looking through my Project Life album reminds me of all of the wonderful memories throughout the year. I love seeing all the pictures of life's event, such as TeamDisney, the Logandale Fair and even small things like Sunday lunches with daddy and Kaylee helping cook the meal. I have no doubt that my Project Life album will be a treasure for years to come. I hope that Kaylee will not only be able to remember moments in her life, but see glimpses into my life as well when she reads journaling about things I did without her, such as concerts or movies.

This year, I am doing Project Life again. Another year displayed so easily with the Project Life album... yes, taking a picture-a-day took some getting used to but now that I have started, it's just a daily habit, like brushing your teeth. I have also begun displaying my images on Shuttercal, it has been a great took for sharing pictures with others online.

Sunday before church

Picture taken with my Fuji Finepix S7000

Saturday morning, shot using Fuji Finepix S7000

Ali Edwards does "One Little Word" as opposed to New Years Resolutions. This year my word was "Try" because I really want 2011 to be full of new and fun experiences. My first real experience with this one little word is the Fuji Finepix S7000. I joined a photography meetup group (also something I'm trying) and I couldn't help but worry that showing up with my Canon Powershot A1100IS would be me a few dirty looks, so I dusted off my fancy camera and I want to learn how to use it.

JUMP!

This is absolutely one of my favorite pictures so far. Kaylee woke up in the morning and brought out my teddy bear (Morris) and her teddy bear (Bear) and set them in our places for breakfast.

Las Vegas Sunsets can be so beautiful!

Project Life is back in stock! http://www.beckyhiggins.com/products/

One Little Word: Try

2011-01-22T14:29:00.001-08:00

Ali Edwards has a philosophy about New Years Resolutions being essentially destined to be broken. You give yourself this grand goal and it seems entirely overwhelming to achieve it. I have never been one for New Years Resolutions anyway, but I do like Ali Edward's "One Little Word". All you need to do is choose one little word that you keep with you, guiding you throughout the year.

Last year, I did "Explore", I never took a grand trip anywhere but I did get out of my house. I started hiking and sightseeing and that was the goal. This year, I chose the word "Try", often I will stop myself from trying things because they seem overwhelming or intimidating. I do not already possess the skills or feel I have the talent for it, and I let it hold me back. Fear of the unknown keeps me from trying new foods/restaurants especially because I am a picky eater.

This year I will keep "Try" with me throughout the year. I recently joined a few meetup groups, one for mom's and one for photography. I am nervous about both, but I feel like it will be something worthy of trying, even if by January 1, 2012 I don't care to be a part of either, the point is that I tried.

The photography meetup group is a challenge for me since I have no knowledge of how to use a real camera. I take all of my pictures with a point and shoot camera, I love my point and shoot camera, however when it comes to something like a photography meetup and I am the only one without a professional looking camera, I fear that I will be looked down upon.

Last night I literally dusted off my FujiS7000 camera and I'm going to do my best to learn how to use it. I shutter to think of all the blurry pictures that would have been crystal clear if I'd only used my point-and-shoot but the point is to try new things.

Here are 2 pictures I took this morning with my Fuji Finepix S7000:

Project Life Tuesday

2011-01-17T22:01:00.000-08:00

For Christmas Kaylee got a scooter. She has been doing fantastic riding it. Today we went to the park and rode around there.

Blurry pictures are part of life. Here is Kaylee lounging next to Slinky-dog

Living in Las Vegas definitely has it's perks. Kaylee and I took a quick 1hr trip to the MGM Grand to see the lions. Kaylee loved watching them play.

Kaylee trying to eat the "little pancake".

A game of Candyland with Grammy.

Life can't be entirely comprised of fun. I got to make a trip down to the Regional Justice Center to pay off a ticket I received for expired registration.

Blocks and animals are some of Kaylee's favorite things, tonight we combine them by making houses out of block for animals.

A nice leisurely walk around the block. Kaylee sat down on this rocks and exclaimed "Mommy, take my picture!"

Street Photography

2011-01-15T13:53:00.000-08:00

After seeing this fantastic 10 minute documentary about a wonderful undiscovered photographer who took wonderful street photographs from the 50s-90s, I thought I'd try my hand at Street Photography.

Here are a few of the pictures I have taken over the past couple of weeks.

Project Life Tuesday 2011

2011-01-10T17:41:00.000-08:00

At the stroke of midnight we released balloons with LED lights inside. It looks stunning!

Kaylee is helping Grammy do laundry

Tuesday night was taco night. Grandpa doesn't like mexican food so, while he's at church Grammy, Kaylee and I have tacos from Taco Bell.

Wednesday night, geek night dinner has moved to IHOP instead of Putters. While we waited for our food, out came the Nintendo DS's!

Our very first family game night. Kaylee won! She won fair and square... if there's one thing about my family, we don't "let" anyone win.

Project Life Tuesday

2010-12-28T09:10:00.001-08:00

This has been a very busy couple of weeks, and I haven't been as good about posting pictures as I should. This will be a VERY picture heavy post, but that's okay.
Kaylee got a scooter for Christmas and is doing really well at learning how to ride it. She had it down pretty much the first day.

It was a Christmas miracle! My 2011 Project Life album arrived on Christmas Eve, despite being told by amazon.com that it would not arrive until 12/27! Amazon.com is amazing and I absolutely LOVE the new Project Life kit. I can not wait to get started during the new year.

Christmas Eve, a few of us got together and watching Christmas movies and ate a LOT of sweets. It was a really great way to spend Christmas Eve.
At work this year, we decided to do Stockings. I never did stockings as a kid so I was skeptical, but it really ended up being a lot of fun! We had a potluck and a little party where we all opened out stockings. I'm so glad I work at such a wonderful place!
Grandpa making cookies! YUMMY!
Saturday, Kaylee and I were at Costco when Jenelle posted "Are you taking Kaylee to see the YoGabbaGabba guys at the mall?" on twitter. I hadn't even known about it, so we went over and stood in line. Kaylee was SO excited "I'm going to talk to them, and hug them and and and" once we got up there, they were quite large and she just looked up at them in awe, almost overwhelmed so I picked her up (sure she would have cried otherwise) and we got our picture taken.
Kaylee's daycare opted to do a Christmas lunch/party instead of a Christmas play this year so, we went down to the school even though it was Kaylee and I's week off.
Krissy, Debbie and I went to The Magical Forest. Kaylee loved seeing all of the lights and we bought the pass so that Kaylee could ride all of the rides. We went on the GIANT slide, rode the merry-go-round, rode the train and went through the hay maze. It was a lovely night.
Grammy was off of work so, all 3 of us went down to Bellagio to see their Christmas display.
Kaylee is no longer scared of the car wash. This is a triumph!

Christmas

2010-12-26T12:31:00.001-08:00

Project Life Giveaway

2010-12-16T09:15:00.000-08:00

I am eagerly anticipating the new Project Life Album. I have done Project Life for almost a year now and it has been a really fantastic experience. A lot of people say they aren't dedicated enough to do "Picture-a-day" like I do, which is perfectly fine. This kit is useful and versatile. I have heard several people do "Monthly overviews" or just special events throughout the year.

There is a giveaway going on right now. Why not enter?

Scrapbook Layout: Sweet Child of Mine

2010-12-14T15:55:00.000-08:00

Project Life Tuesday

2010-12-14T15:29:00.001-08:00

Kaylee and Papa sitting beside the Christmas Tree. Grammy and Papa sing (often with the wrong words) Christmas song. They eventually went online and printed the real lyrics to the Christmas songs, so singing has improved. Either way, Kaylee loves it.

Speaking of singing, Tuesday night was Super Glee Night. Nathan purchased Glee Karaoke and we finally had the opportunity to play. After Glee Karaoke was the Christmas episode of Glee.

Kaylee put Candy Canes on the tree. She, more than once, would take them off again just so she could redecorate.

Kaylee is a big fan of lines. Her toys get lined up almost all the time. I used to do the same exact thing (only with little people) when I was her age.

Kaylee all decked out in her sun glasses and lady bug coat. Stylin'!

Poor Jessica Turner, who usually hosts Project Life Tuesday is having quite a 1st trimester. I may not be putting the link up anywhere, but I can share it with you.

From her perspective

2010-12-05T09:26:00.000-08:00

This morning Kaylee took my camera and shot this picture of Woody. I'm not sure what it is that really makes me like this pictures...

Some Picture from Project Life

2010-12-01T09:17:00.000-08:00

Kaylee helping cook "Pasta Worms", Kaylee really enjoys helping cook dinner.

It is Thanksgiving tradition to go to Pie and Coffee. This year was mostly spent watching Lady Gaga videos on Kelly's iPad. Kaylee was VERY happy and we were entertained watching her sing and dance along.

Rainforest Cafe was somewhat of a disaster. Kaylee hated the animetronic animals! Even the non-animetronic Elephant scared her after she saw the one in the gift shop move. Proof she's my daughter: She still kept looking over at it, even though it scared her. The saving grace of Rainforest Cafe was the giant fish tank. Kaylee loved the fish tank.

Kaylee was SO tired on Tuesday night that she passed out in the car (5 minute drive) on the way to dinner with Krissy and Nathan and didn't wake up.

One of Kaylee's new favorite things is our neighbors yard. She LOVES "Looking at Christmas" although it's taken time for her not to say "I want to see Halloween", which was the first time she saw the big blow-up figures and lights in people's yards.

Scrapy

2010-11-28T20:36:00.001-08:00

Scrapbook Layouts you may have missed

2010-11-25T10:54:00.001-08:00

A few picture of things that I've done

2010-11-25T08:18:00.001-08:00

This picture was taken on the way to Liz's birthday dinner. It's nothing special. There are thousands of pictures just like it, but I like the way it came out... particular since it was taken from inside my car.
I took Kaylee to Toys R Us to get hints on what she wants for Christmas. It's just cruel to take a kid to a toy store and not to let them get something, so we picked up Slinky Dog. She loves him!

Kaylee sitting at her own booth playing with Nintendogs on the Nintendo DS. She is already too cool to sit with us. =P

Kaylee is looking through the latest scrapbook album I completed.

Kaylee standing outside of the playground at school. I dig this picture.

C is for Cookie

2010-11-20T20:40:00.001-08:00

Kaylee Birthday 2010

2010-11-19T07:09:00.001-08:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

Passive Scrapper

2010-11-13T09:17:00.001-08:00

I know several of you have mentioned to me that you scrapbook but unless you're already a member of Challenge masters, chances are I haven't seen any of your work... and that's OK. Just thought I would recommend a wonderful group of people, they're always supportive and there are challenges posted almost every week of the month that, at least for me, help get my creative juices flowing!

Project Life Tuesday

2010-11-09T07:17:00.000-08:00

At work we got to dress up for Halloween. I absolutely love Halloween!

Saturday, Kaylee and I went to McDonald's. I went to a Halloween Party so the goal was to get Kaylee as tired as I possibly could... it worked a bit too well... she was ready to drop over by 6pm.

Krissy and I had costumes made. We were the twins from The Shining and it freaked out several of the party guests :D

Sunday night we went Trick or Treating with Mrs. Brandy. Kaylee got TONS of candy and had an amazing time! She wanted to make friends with every house, nearly every house we had to say "Kaylee, come on. It's time to go to the next house." because she was chatting with the people.

At First Friday this week Kaylee got a darling Glitter Tattoo. It is now Tuesday and it still looks just as good as the night she got it, I am impressed and she LOVES it. She has gotten several compliments about it and loved telling people all about it.

I leave her alone for 5 minutes

2010-11-06T15:55:00.000-07:00

Last night was First Friday. I found Adam Michaels, an artist which I really love (cause he does Disney stuff) and while I was looking through printed I handed Kaylee off to Nathan. I browsed through the prints, purchased a couple and then I turn around to see my daughter getting a tattoo.
Kaylee was super excited! I was surprised she held still long enough... granted, it wasn't a long process but she's 3 years old. The girl put on the stencil, put on adhesive, dust/brush on glitter (they had several colors) and dry with a small fan.

End result: A unicorn glitter tattoo. The girl doing it says they last a few days. I'm impressed. It's day 2 and it looks just as good as it did the moment she got it. She has gotten several compliments from strangers and she has told others about it.

Next First Friday, I may just have to be brave enough to get my own (the closest I'll ever get to a real) tattoo =P

Brief bouts of internet

2010-10-30T09:05:00.000-07:00

This month's Challenge Masters Scrapbooking challenges have had me inspired, I have completed 4 challenges for the month so far. This was the color challenge. Challenge: Use Black, Orange, Cream and a color of your choice (I chose Brown) for layout that is not fall/halloween themed.

Last Saturday Kaylee and I went to Gigi's Cupcakes. We got the "Birthday Surprise" cupcake and it was very yummy! We went to the park, at our cupcake (about half) and Kaylee worked off some of the sugar.
Krissy and I had our fancy dress party. It was a success! I had a great time!
Kaylee's latest "Game" is "Make me a fly boat." I'm sure most of you are not aware what a "Fly Boat" is... there is a show called "Wonder Pets" and they go on adventures to save animals in a homemade boat (that flies). During this game all the stuffed animals are stacked ontop of either Kaylee or I.

I am not completely out of the woods yet, I have a new router which keeps me up and running for roughly an hour at a time before my ancient cable modem gives way, to be fair I'm sure my modem is about 5+ years old. While I do have internet, I thought I'd share a few things.

Disappearance

2010-10-27T12:40:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't updated this blog in quite awhile. It is really unfortunate because I have some really cute pictures to post. My wireless router died... dead... and currently buying a new one doesn't fit into the budget. I will be back as soon as possible.

Fashion

2010-10-08T20:48:00.000-07:00

This was my outfit for today and I felt VERY fashion forward.
Top: Forever 21
Skinny Jeans: Pac Sun
Shoes: Jessica Simpson

Happy Birthday

2010-10-08T07:33:00.000-07:00