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Tuesday, December 22, 2009

My Favorite Picture

It makes me smile just to think of it! Chris and I were sitting on the sofa when our then 3 year-old came down the stairs after bedtime-like this! Undies on backwards, tatos everywhere and his fireman hat with toothbrushes suctioned to it! OMG! We were ineffective as parents, because after we quit laughing-we took pictures! What can you do?! After we'd finally settled down and returned him to bed my husband looked over at me and said, "I didn't see that coming!" Oh-Hollan, they say each of our kids get funnier and funnier-so this last one should be a riot, right?! I am so grateful for the joy my sweet children bring to my life. We were happy previously, but adding these children in brought us happiness neither of us could have imagined!

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Struggling

With the flare-up of my fibromalgia and the pain of this tumor, PLUS the back pain, etc. I have found myself in quite the predicament. I do not like to complain, however I find myself doing so frequently, becuase it is all my mind encompasses. I have tried traditional forms of help, such as heat, ice, and topical muscle creams with no relief. I have also tried contemporary forms of help such as massage, acupuncture and oriental medicine, again with no relief. I am avoiding my pain medication because if I take it, the baby will be required to remain in the NICU for up to 2 weeks following delivery to be withdrawn. I can't stand the thought of that, yet I can't stand the pain either. It interferres with everyday activity and I am an angry, irritable person laying around crying and writhing. If you are reading this, please send some extra prayers this way for me and my family. Thanks, Brynn

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

MEXICO

This 1st one is my favorite of all of those taken.


This swimsuit shows just how pregnant I am!


Even on a cloudy day the ocean was BEAUTIFUL!






We were able to take our picture with the Mexican dancers after their show!
It was a stunning vacation. We had a private pool, unlimited drinks and 5 star restaurant food. The opportunity was amazing and I'm thankful to have had the expeience-and a stamp on my passport!

Sunday, December 6, 2009

We've Returned-and I'm grateful!

Chris and I JUST returned from a luxury vacation on the Mexican Riveria at the Secret SilverSands Resort in Cancun! It was a whirlwind and we were treated like royalty there. As amazing as it was to be served NAB Pina Coladas on the beach, I was grateful to land safely back on US soil and return to see my children! Our reality is amazing as well and I find myself feeling more thankful. I'm trying to adapt an 'attitude of gratitude' as we have so very many blessings. I wasn't physically feeling well today, so we skipped church, but I am still humbled by the inspiring friends and church family we've found at Destiny Center. Our pastor is amazing, the kids have 2 special grandmas, and we have many who care and think about us. My new friend and customer Charlene had placed a CTMH order I delivered, and it was nice to chat with her for awhile and feel I have something to offer her and her business!

Oh-and an update on the craft show from my previous post.... I sold a few hand-made things and even better, found a few people who would like to learn as well. The best part?! The director of the Rio Rancho Parks and Recreation Dept. stopped by my booth and asked if I would teach for them!! I finished class descriptions for 4 classes to be offered in the upcoming Spring catalog, where I will be able to extend services and the papercrafting community with thousands of local people! I'm even offering 2 special classes for children and seniors! YAY!

I'll try to get into Abq. tomorrow and work on my photos to share. I'm caught up on e-mails, but haven't begun christmas cards yet. I have another ultrasound on Tuesday morning-10 more weeks til our new baby boy will be here! WOW!

I hope you are well and finding yourself in the Christmas spirit. Remember to stop and be grateful today. ~With blessing, B.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

What to do?!

I have a craft show this weekend, my first. I should be in my studio creating and preparing but...I just don't feel like it! Any suggestions at to what gets YOU up and motivated, inspired and ready to work?! I could easily blame it on the pregnancy-I have not felt well today and I'm more and more prgnant-but the fact is that I'm fully capable, just lacking determination and perserverance. Ughh...

Monday, November 9, 2009

STAMPING DEAL!

For the month of November, Close To My Heart is hosting STAMPAGANZA! This means that when you purchase ANY 2 stamp sets of your choice, you can choose a 3rd for FREE! YAY! Those delicious little envelopes fit perfectly into stockings-so prepare for Christmas now! E-mail me at brynnthornburgh@gmail.com and I'll get you taken care of. I'd LOVE the opportunity to share this passion and great deal on the BEST acrylic stamps there are! I will likely even throw in a gift with purchase to my loyal blogger friends! I look forward to hearing from you!

Monday, October 26, 2009

Some recent creations...

This button cross is my first attempt. I hope to make various others for the craft show.


I LOVE this post-it version of a cookie sheet calender. It will be available for custom order.







I've had my eye on one of these laminate purses for quite awhile now and I FINALLY made one thanks to my dear friend Jean! I tried to stitch on the sides and it didn't look very good after the laminating-but I really like the front and back-my colors of course!









These are a few Halloween creations.
This is a candle holder-with a fake tealight.
TOO CUTE-especially with the Halloween shadows!
I've also made a Christmas one-but it will likely be re-vamped.













This little witch is a box sack and hold m&ms.









Frankie card-all out of punches except the hair.











The mummy is probably my favorite. His ribbon says EEK!
















And the matchbox mints. I've made about 100 of these (literally) and don't even want to look at them anymore! lol




This is the inside-lifesaver mint eyes that remind me of the Geico commercial! I'd love to send you a set of them. Leave me a comment telling me your favorite item shown here-and your favorite thing about Halloween! I'll pick a winner and send them out this week!











Wednesday, October 14, 2009

So Frustrated

I had an AMAZING weekend attending a Close to My Heart Stamp Camp in Las Vegas but it all disappeared when I had to return to the realization that we have 2 additional adults living with us-who can't seem to pick up after themselves! Ugghhh- Chris' brother Curtis and his wife Paula wanted to escape their formal lives and challengs and begin again-here. I agreed-but I didn't ralize that that would mean I would have to adjust to THEIR MESS! Chris said that after a few days of letting them settle in we'd have a 'ground rules' talk, however now he has recounted that, because his brother is so easily upset and quite irrational. Seriously? Empty cans, dirty socks, empty botles, shoes, etc. all ON MY FLOOR?! Not to mention finishing off food or drinks without alerting me or replacing them. How am I expected to withstand this? I expect my home to be in prestine condition-and did I mention they brought a PUPPY?! I am 22 weeks pregnant now and after awhile I just can't be held responsible for my actions.....It is straining my hubby and that is by far the WORST PART. I am frustrated-his brother doesn't want to deal with it and then Chris feels in the middle, wanting both of us to be happy. What am I to do and how am I too cope?! This is NOT what I had in mind-after all, 2 more adults means 2 more to clean and help, right?! At first I doubted myself and my expectations, but I have never pretended to be anything I'm not or anything other than who I am-and this is unaceptable.

~With desperation-B.

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Punkin Fun

As a bonus project for our ASA challenge blog, I created a crapped pumpkin! The leaves are stamped from CTMH and I quite like the outcome-enogh that a few more a re in the works!



It's been a rough day. I would have liked to have taken the kids downtown for Balloon Fiesta celebrations, but they just didn't deserve it. Mostly my daughter that is. It's so difficult-Jace did everything as asked but Aubrey threw a fit. I wanted to go too but I couldn't justify it :( We managed to get my entire room clean (the kids had their own mess in there as well) and I'm REALLY behind on laundry! Ugghhh.... We were also going to have a big slumber party tonight with my BFF and her children, as both of our hubbt's are out of town-but her daughter was exposed to H1N1 at daycare-so we're keeping our distance. Needless to say, things aren't going according to plan-but they never do! Yesterday I signed up and paid for my 1st ever craft show-as a vendor that is! I'm excited-but nervous. It'll be mostly to advertise teaching paper carfting to thos interested-and custom orders-but I hardly feel qualified! Thinking of you all today-especially Julie and Lizard, my loyal commentors! Blessings.

Friday, October 2, 2009

H1N1

Yesterday we were informed that a kindergartener in our elementary school system passed away from H1N1. A 5-year-old little girl. I have a 5-year-old little girl! I feel helpless, fighting something I cannot see. This particuluar little girl had NO SYMPTOMS, which is even more frightening. What's a mother to do? I know-hand washing, cough in your arm, etc. But, where's peace of mind to be found?!

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Ahhhh....a garage door opener!

So we officially moved to New Mexico exactly a year ago. With the exception of twice, our 3 car garage has been full of anything but our vehicles! We've had a garage door opener, but had never programed it, as there was no need-until my dear husband cleaned it out. He changed my oil filter and programed my garage door opener so from now on, I can happily puch the little button and pull in. I have lived in several houses since moving out of my parents, but this is the 1st time to have my own garage door opener! I'm so thankful. For the husband who took the time and effort-the modern conveinence-and luxury-of the button that lifts up the door!

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Half Way

So, I am oficially 20 weeks pregnant. That's the half way mark-and I hope the 2nd half goes a little more smoothly! That also means that we have just about made it to viability age so that if the little guy HAD to be born, there's a good chance he'd survive. He still doesn't have a name. We haven't even narrowed it down. Chris calls him Elvis. lol. He's active, and the kids enjoy feeling him kick. I enjoy this part-the anticipation, the movement, etc. It's the joy of pregnancy.

I'm right in the middle of 'fall clothes.' There are literally HUNDREDS of clothes scattered around the living room as I sort, de-wrinkle and hang! We save the boy clothes and pass on the girls. After we buy a few more pants for Aubrey-we oficially need NOTHING. Yay! It's taken a few days, but almost complete. I still have to clean out drawers and get their rooms organized.

Church service was nice. My friend that lost her husband used to attend where we go before they moved back to Kansas. He sang in the band a nd a few members will drive down for the service. I don't think they'd appreciate a pregnant lady tagging along-that's a looooong drive! I will go down there in about a month or so, or have her come her for a break. It's nice to have the church family I do though-and I'm glad they're so supportive-of everyone. I couldn't as for more as far as our church goes. Destiny Center is amazing and I'm proud to be a part of it. I'm on the prayer team and we prayed for another family who had lost a loved one. They hadn't attended service together in 20+ years and I was honored to be a part of this new beginning for them.

The season premeire of 'Dexter' is tonight. It's been on the calender! I'll probably still be working on clothes-otherwise I'm hoping to create. Blessings. ~B.

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Short and sweet.




Things are going better. I hope to be regular with blogging again now! I've created a few things recently-including my first glass etching with my cricut. YUMMY! (It's mistletoe)
I carry a heavy heart today, as a good friend of mine's sweet husband took his life last night. He was an excellent man and will be missed dearly. Please keep her in your prayers. MUAH.

Friday, August 7, 2009

The prayers must be working

I am blessed to have many praying for me during these difficult health issues; and God is listening. This morning, I feel better, and that's an accomplishment. I've even done a load of laundry!

We found out yesterday that this is a little boy. I kinda had a feeling.

The new items I ordered from Close to My Heart should arrive today. With any luck, I'll feel well enough to work!

Please keep those prayers coming my way for awhile. Each of your voices are a gift in my honor, restoring my spirit as well. Much thanks.

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

New baby pictures. YAY!




Hey there.

I've been REALLY sick lately. Last Tuesday I went in for an iv and fluids. Its really had me wuite down-hearted, but hopefully this new med will help a bit. I'm off of my fibro meds because they've been futile. Frustrating to be in so much pain. Today I had an ultrasound for screening. It's interesting how God works......if the baby had co-operated they wouldn't have gone internally, in which the discovered a large mass (tumor (NOT cancerous) outside my right ovary. At least some of my pain has a reason! It will be removed, the OB will decide just how tomorrow. I'm a little concerned -but just about recovery. My husband is THE BEST, but I don't want all of the extra burden on him of home stuff on account of me not being up to par-for whatever reason! They have little concern for the baby, and that's comforting. Thank you for thinking of me, and keeping me in your prayers. I appreciate it so VERY much and it's just what I need when I'm struggling myself. Yours in Christ-B.

Monday, July 27, 2009

Almost a month?!

Time flies-especially when you're under all of the symptoms of a new pregnancy. I've felt more myself the past few days than I have in a few months. I'm hoping it will continue. I've just been so down on myslef for not being everything I want to be. I haven't scrapbooked or created in 6 weeks now-you can't even walk into my studio it's in such shambles. The house is in pretty good shape, so that eases my pressure. I was assigned the leader of our new Women's Bible Studay at church-that's been the highlight of the month! I really feel called to be exactly where I am. Praise God for that. We have had immense trouble with our renters (previous) in Kansas. It's been almost unbearable (and I haven't even been dealing with it directly), prompting a 3 day trip to KS for Chris and the 2 littlest (DYING to be with grandma). Jace and I had an uncomfortably quiet weekend, I tried to make it special for him. Now, I'm seeking motivation, having begun my Monday morning with pharmacy frustration costing me $100 for a ruined RX. Ugghhh.... I just thought I should start blogging again-even if there's no pictures and it's a little down for my personal taste! lol. Hope all is well for any of you that still check this thing! Blessings.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Clay Balls

A man was exploring caves by the Seashore. In one of the caves he found a canvas bag with a bunch of hardened clay balls. It was like someone had rolled clay balls and left them out in the sun to bake. They didn't look like much, but they intrigued the man, so he took the bag out of the cave with him. As he strolled along the beach, he would throw the clay balls one at a time out into the ocean as far as he could.
He thought little about it, until he dropped one of the clay balls and it cracked open on a rock. Inside was a beautiful, precious stone!
Excited, the man started breaking open the remaining clay balls. Each contained a similar treasure. He found thousands of dollars worth of jewels in the 20 or so clay balls he had left.
Then it struck him. He had been on the beach a long time. He had thrown maybe 50 or 60 of the clay balls with their hidden treasure into the ocean waves. Instead of thousands of dollars in treasure, he could have taken home tens of thousands, but he had just thrown it away!
It's like that with people. We look at someone, maybe even ourselves, and we see the external clay vessel. It doesn't look like much from the outside. It isn't always beautiful or sparkling, so we discount it.
We see that person as less important than someone more beautiful or stylish or well known or wealthy. But we have not taken the time to find the treasure hidden inside that person.
There is a treasure in each and every one of us. If we take the time to get to know that person, and if we ask God to show us that person the way He sees them, then the clay begins to peel away and the brilliant gem begins to shine forth.
May we not come to the end of our lives and find out that we have thrown away a fortune in friendships because the gems were hidden in bits of clay. May we see the people in our world as God sees them.
I am so blessed by the gems of friendship I have with you. Thank you for looking beyond my clay vessel. APPRECIATE EVERY SINGLETHING YOU HAVE, ESPECIALLY YOUR FRIENDS!LIFE IS TOO SHORT AND FRIENDS ARE TOO FEW!Pass this on to another Clay Ball!!!
Do not ask the Lord to Guide your Footsteps if you are not willing to MOVE your Feet'

Friday, June 19, 2009

The origin of pain is revealed

Although my husband feels the subject a bit too personal for the cyber world; I'm a 'lay it all out there' type girl. Always have been. That being said, I almost blogged earlier about my agonizing pain and worry. A few days ago, I mentioned my abdominal strain to the mid-wife, and since it's not accopmanied by bleeding (thank God), she said it's ok, just drink more. There have since been times that the stabbing has brought me to my knees. Knowing that this didn't feel typical, I called again today to share how intense it has become. Worried it may be an eptopic pregnancy, I was scheduled for a sonogram and lab work this afternoon. I wish I had a picture of the baby bean to share! The good news (best news) is that the baby is exactly where it's supposed to be, and it's heart beat is strong. *sigh of relief. The not so good news? I saw 2 large 'things' in the sonogram, and asked the technician what she was looking at. I promptly got an, "I'm not at liberty to say." Thanks. Well, apparently they were the 2 golf ball sized cysts taking up more than their fare share of space in my right ovary-thus causing the excruiating pain. They should take care of themselves within the next few weeks, and meanwhile, I'm trying to be tough (percocet's help)! So it's almost my birthday (June 30th), I'm pregnant, and I have 2 large cysts-I think that qualifies me for some extra TLC (involving greasy food)! Please keep us in your prayers. Yours in Christ, Brynn

Thursday, June 18, 2009

LOOOOOONG Overdue Post

Hey there! We've got a LOT to catch up on. I haven't blogged in 2 weeks becuase we took an impromptu trip back to Kansas for what ended up being 10 days! My husband was offered this for work, and with all expenses paid, we returned to see family! And.....while we were there, look what we fond out!!!.....
Yep. Baby #4 will join us next February!! I am SO excited. And-I may have gon a LITTLE overboard on the confirmation-but my mother-in-law gave me a hard time about the 'cheap' test I took first, so-I just wanted to be sure! lol


We let it process a few days and then shared the news. The kids are beyond excited, already making plans to share their toys! Today, I am 6 weeks pregnant, and feeling like I'm 4 months. No morning sickness, but I am tender, and expanding, and loving it! And it got even better when my husband surprised me yesterday with the 'Cherished' pregnant woman Willow Tree figurine for my collection! The thoughtfulness and love overwhelmed me. I am so thankful to the Lord for him. Now-take a second and we'll move on!
My dear blogger friend Julie accepted my donation offer and sent a lovely paper package. Thank you Julie. You are appreciated and treasured. Here's to YOU and your consistency, friendship and success. :):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):)
My NM-BFF Brandi was kind enough to house sit and take care of the animals. I am so VERY grateful she's a part of our lives. She loves cupcakes so I found some great Doodlebug cupcake papers and embellishments, plus a pink CHI iron and a bottle of Cupcake Wine! It's the least I could do for all she has done. It's not nearly enough though-how do you express your absolute AWE for the people God has placed in your life? Scrapbook supplies just don't cut it-ya know?! And not only her-but the previously mentioned, and Chrissy, Danielle, Katelyn, Michielle, Hueslman, my sisters, ....I could go on and on. I am so blessed. I am so very thankful for each person and think about them. Am I rambling?! It's gonna be one of those! lol
I have unpacked everything and returned it to it's place, except for Chris' suit case. I kept thinking he'd unpack it but it's still sitting here! lol. I have hundreds of pictures that need to be filed, I'll try to share some more later. I suppose I ought to feed these kiddos lunch-and me too! The way I'm feeling, I expect to find out I'm carrying more than 1 little miracle!
*THANK YOU DEAR LORD for absolutely every person you have blessed me with in this amazing life you allow me to lead. Please protect us, and continue to shed your love on us.
In your name I pray, AMEN.

Monday, June 1, 2009

Where the Wild Things Are!

They are definately here! lol. I went and purchased a new editon of this book with a layout in mind for kiddielit, however today is the 1st, and I'm pretty sure that was the deadling-and the book's still in the sack! No excuses, just life. I've been working on my hair accesories, cards and other things. I have pictures to post, but I haven't loaded them-maybe later. I've really been trying to promote my Close to My Heart venture-their products are just phenomonal! If you would be interested in helping me, you would be greatly rewrded, both with free products and my eternal gratitude! I want to succeed! www.closetomyheart.com I am waiting for my business card to arrive to officiate my personal website, so as of now I will have to take your order(s) and enter them manually! *Free ink pad with orders over $25, Free Reflections book with orders over $100. The Reflections book is AMAZING, as is everything from them! I look forward to hearing from you!

Sunday, May 31, 2009

Website?!

I would like to promote my website. It is bought for 2 years, but I have no idea how to code or what to do, and I don't want to pay a company $200 to do it! Any suggestions?! Do you know anyone who could help me?! I would be willing to trade scrap supplies, services, and/or creations! I NEED HELP!

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Friday Fill-ins, a bit early!

1. Moving __is horrible! And next time, I'll pay others to do it!

2. _My favorite price is _ free.

3. My best quality is _my sense of humor and ability to make others comfortable_.

4. _It's all about the_ details.

5. In nearly 10 years, _I have changed my life into what I'm wanting it to be____.

6. _A hug__ is what I need right now!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _the scrap stash swap_, tomorrow my plans include _a baseball game and dinner at The Melting Pot for my husband's work_ and Sunday, I want to _be creative with hair things_!

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Tantrums and Finding Faith

Being a my mother is the best thing I've ever done. It's also the hardest thing I've ever done. It is my greatest strength, and greatest weakness. You could call many any number of names and obscenities, but calling me a 'bad mother' or anything related-breaks me down immediately. I do not have the confidence or security this job requires. I am broken down now, as she continues to scream from not being able to ride in the wagon (3 other little kids were taking turns from our walk to the park). She continually disobey's me and it's exhausting. I am vulnerable and reduced to tears. I trust that God knows what He's doing putting these amazing blessings in my care, but I continuously doubt my ability to succeed. I'm contemplating throwing a tantrum myself. It's likely not to yield any rewards, but it may go a long way in relieving my stress!

In other news-I am delighted that my blog friend Julie has offered to make a donation for Paper Therapy's upcoming event. If any of you would like to join that group, participate in swaps, and other events please find us through meetup.com and again, our group is Paper Therapy. I am busy collecting donations for the "Finding Faith" program, which will introduce these broken women to the art of preserving memories and documenting their healing journey through scrapbooking. If you would like to be a part of that, I emplore you to participate further. Please e-mail me at brynnthornburgh@gmail.com and I would be glad to address it further. This is a cause close to my heart, as I was once damaged with little hope. At the least, please add these extraordinary women into your prayers today. Thank you for your time to listen and extend your care!

MUAH

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

No Pictures?!

Maybe later! I'm busy rounding up donations for the upcoming "Crop-for-a-Cause." These events are a lot of work! If you, or anyone you know, would like to donate something for our goodie bags and/or raffle/door prizes, please feel free to send it-and it can advertise your small business as well! So far, I have Photoshop Elements 7, manicures/pedicures, scrap supplies and a few more. I'm trying to be creative and not limit it to just scrap supplies-I may even get a few restaurants. We're off to a pool party-I'll check back later-and announce the STASH winners! Have a blessed day!

Saturday, May 23, 2009

A 12x12, double layout swap?!

What was I thinking undertaking this?! Over $100, 14 hours, an entire bottle of zip dry and a refill of xyronx-I AM FINISHED! These scans are a little cruddy-but you can see. I made all oof the pots, beading and embellishin g them, designed the chili for the ristra, stamped, embossed and more! I picked up some leather and it all come together! My favorite part is the little road runner! I like the state symbol too!
I made 12, plus one for my BFF back home, Chrissy. I can't wait to see all the effort everyone else dedicated!


It was A LOT of work--and I'm glad I started early. I've helped Brandi too-and I like duplicating, especially for a purpose!
I'll announce the stash winners soon-it's not too late! Thank you for checking in and keeping up with me. I've got some BIG, exciting news coming as well! Stay tuned.

Friday, May 15, 2009

Oh SO much!


Yea-that's been my title before. Sometimes life just gets going-then I have to stop and catch up!
Mother's Day was AMAZI
NG. I got my dream camera, the Canon Rebel XTI with an additional 300mm optical zoom lens)! My mom sent me flowers through FTD, my sister-in-law made me a sweet card, Chris brought me my favorite meal from The Olive Garden Saturday night, they all made me breakfast in bed Saturday morning. Aubrey gave me the black polka dot dress she had picked out for me, chocolates from Jace (the kind with the map), pink roses from Hollan, Chris worte me an UNBELIEVABLE poem (endearing and quite a surprise), Jace made me some things at school, including one of those little tea cards! We took off to Taos and explored the little street shops in the Plaza, had linner (lunch/dinner) and then we went to the Rio Grande Gorge, some 685 feet deep, as you see here (a special thank you to the random guy who took this photo for us-and didnt run off with my new camera)! It was an amazing day, and that's an understatement. We missed church, but God certainly blessed me in spite of it!
Picture 2 is of my new hair cut. I'll get a better shot next time I have my make-up all done! lol

This is my sweet BIG baby Ben, still groggy from the meds after being neutered yesterday!


I was LOVING the camera for Jace's baseball game. He's stepping into home for a point!




Then we went to Chris' hockey game. They're in the play-off's. And, still in since they won. He's too cute! LOVE him!



That's it, for the most part. There, of course, were other things that made the camera card-but you don't want ALL of the details!! I'm working hard on Paper Therapy's fast approaching "Crop-for-A-Cause" in June. Also, I'm participating in a page swap, 12-2 page layouts, and I'm putting A LOT of effort into them, just as I hope they are. The laundry is dwindelling and life is great. Wait-so great in fact, that if you're a scrappy friend that dared to read through all of this, I want to share my stash with you! Please leave me a comment, but remember that when you receive your package, round up some of your unused stash and pass it forward if you can, otherwise, just enjoy! I encourage you to participate, as I'll have more than 1 person chosen-I have a ton of stash to share! lol. Blessings to you, B.

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Kiddie Lit

I'm excited to have stumbled upon a great new challenge blog, Kiddie Lit, which my blog friend Julie designs for. It is more than conveinent that their first post is on "The Wizard of Oz!" As many of you know, I am from Kansas, born and raised. When I moved, my BFF Chrissy began my collection! Since then, I have acquired the mini dolls and flip book, and it continues. I had an image in my mind of what I wanted for the layout to be. This is EXACTLY what I had in mind, however it did NOT start out that way! I worked on it for 3 hours, Saturday at the Krafty Ladies crop. Aubrey helped me rip it all up so that I could re-use the buttons! Now-I LOVE IT! IT is SO symbolic. First of all, I made the "yellow-brick-road" paper, embossing with gold. Then there's the "ruby-red-slipper" letter quote, sparling with stickles! Of course the rainbow, plus the little sewn tornado (I drew it and then stitched it) and the photo mat is cut into the shape of Kansas (on ble gingham paper)! The journaling reads: "Kansas was all I'd ever known proir to the fall of 2008. My Wizard of Oz collection reflects my roots and refuge." I often do not like my work-but this as exception-finally playing out into what I began imagining when reading their blog. Enjoy!

Friday, May 1, 2009

And, A Creative Post, to Follow My Previous Heartfelt One!

Please forgive my scanning. Usually the stiching is so seamless it's undetectable-however that is not the case today! 3 single page layouts and 1 double. I was a busy girl, scrappin' away Wednesday and Thursday. What do you think?!


We went to review and purchase the 'antique' photos we had done, Tuesday night. I about choked to pay for them ($40/sheet) but as a scrapbooker, I couldn't deny myself-or our heritage! This is the group shot, including our mini-weiner dog that had hopped in the car!
This layout will be taught in my June class at Scraps Galore. It was nice to finally scrap some of Jace's baby pictures, as he's 8 now! Myself, my mom, and my sister Brandis, all kissing the sweet baby!


One of my favorite photos, courtesy of my baby sis Brayla. This was taken out on my grandpa's farm, before the auction..... It's stamped Aubrey-Engel Farm-2008 on the picture.


Too ,uch fun we had.....6 of us loaded up in my van to attend CKC in Tulsa Oklahoma (OK). We squeezed into a photo booth at Scrap Happy's and these are the results.... Page 1



And Page 2. I used the 'paper ruffling' technique for the first time-and dew drops from "Robin's Nest." Love those. It was great to just grab some paper and use it too. Especially this "Twitterpatted" line from Imaginisce.

I need to prepare for the National Scrapbook Day Crop I will be attending tomorrow. It won't be the same without Brandi-but maybe I'll actually accomplish something if I prepare and focus! **MUAH!



Parenting a Child With Special Needs

Anyone who knows me, knows that I carry a special place in my heart for cildren with Down Syndrome. I absolutely LOVE them! I worked in high school special education for 2 years before we left Kansas. I LOVE special ed. kids! Seriously-they are amazing!! That being said, I've didn't understand why "Gifted" children were classified under Sspecial education. I understand now! Parenting a gifted child is truly parenting a child with special needs. I have 2! There minds are amazing, but their giftedness requires extra attention just as a child with Down's would. To the right, you will see a picture of this challenge I am delving into. At 8 years old, Jace had not formerly been tested out because we transfered schools, twice. Settled in New Mexico, I had told his teacher of the suspicions everyone has had, but she didn't originally take me seriously. Afterall, everyone claims there kid is gifted, right?! Not if they realizied the difficulty this blessing comes with! 2nd grade. Assignments are complete within minutes, thoroughly correct, but NOT TURNED IN! He just doesn't care! I've been beyond frustrated in the past few days, as this revelation has shed more light. How can I possibly make him care? Why would you do the assignments and not turn them in?! Among other things, these have surfaced with more difficulty. Maybe I should ask his mother! Afterall, didn't I do the EXACT SAME THING?! When I was told my I.Q. (higher than Albert Einstein's) it didn't encourage me. I don't remember much from that time period. The entire chunk of my life from 2years old until 10 is completely blocked out do to tramatic events that took place. My dad says I wouldn't even DO the homework-but I always aced the tests. Apparently my teacher would catch me not taking notes, doodling, etc., and surprise me with a baffling question, to which I always answered correctly. I had EVERY option available for my life. Any school would have paid to have me. I didn't even have to try. But, all I wanted was to be a mom. It doesn't utilize my brain power the way a doctorette would, but it is fulfilling in its own. So what then, should I expect of my 8 year-old, and 5 year-old?! I want MORE FOR THEM than I accepted from life! They have absolute and complete potential!! He just doesn't care. Stricken wioth guilt and frustration, I sought out help and went to Borders. Nothing in stock. I need help immediately-I don't want to order a book! Barnes and Noble-she can't find it! I looked myself and found 2! Hooray! Reading it faster than I have the Twilight series, I have learned SO MUCH more than I would have expected, for Jace, Aubrey and MYSELF! Things that stunned me before are now making since. Behaviors are understood and explained. This changes everything! Jace should begin receiving services at school in the fall. Aubrey will be tested out and follow suit. Their mother?! Well-she is becoming a better parent and learning about herself along the way!

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Time Flies


It's true when they say "Time Flies." Everyone knows it. This layout will be in my June class at Scraps Galore, 2 more are to follow. It reminds me to stop and enjoy every moment I have. Each second that passes brings new adventure in our journey. Do you take advantage of the timeGod has given you?! You will never be able to recapture lost time. Please reflect on that. That darn Twilight series has my time occupied right now! I'm half way through book 4 and my children are being neglected due to my obsession! **note to Child Protective Services: I adore my children and they are actually fine. Spending quite an amount of time with their father** It's Brandi's fault. God love her. I'm now a card carrying member of Team Edward! LOL I don't anticipate sporting any necklaces professing my love for the Cullens-but I do have a button pinned to my scrap tote! There's just no other option at this point. I must discover who is plotting against Bella in Seattle-and will she choose Jacob?! I doubt it-but who knows what the plot holds! I'm off to Brandi's shortly. We'll chat over wine and pierce Leona's nose! Wish me luck!

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

A little creativity.....

Inspired by Kolette Hall (an amazing, talented and super delightful mother and scrapper) I downloaded this from her blog and created this to hang from my studio door. It says, "There is nothing wrong with the world that a sensible woman could not settle in an afternoon!" Love it.



These are my princesses. We made 3 cakes for Aubrey's party! It tried to convince her we only needed the 1 but that didnt happen! Belle is my favorite. I'm not too impressed with myself-but they could have been worse!!










Sweet girl. A hanful now!






Blessings to you bloggers. Thinking of you Cathy, and Michielle, and Huelsman....With love!

Thursday, April 16, 2009

2 POSTS?! ...a sneek peek!











I have scrapped! ..and scanned! This is the double page layout I will be teaching for my May class at Scraps Galore in Albuquerque. I used Heidi Grace paper, Bazzill borders, Technique Tuesday and Heidi Grace stamps, Fancy Pants buttons, ribbons, and felt shapes! The stamped images are also embossed. If you would like a kit, it can be ordered through the store. Don't forget to take note of the pictures! Hollan is sometimes.."special" lol, but he is an amazing joy!

Beth Moore

You are looking at an amazing, inspiring women of faith that God has blessed me with. I do not personally know her, yet, but I have been in her "Living Beyond Yourself" Bible study for several weeks now. I cannot even put into understanding the way her words have touched my heart. I feel that I too am led to inspire and lead the way she does; but my opportunity has yet to present itself. I know that it is all in His time.

Take a moment to listen to her today, be it You Tube or her publication site. Let the Lord touch your heart today. Know that He has a purpose and plan laid out for you. God does everything for a reason! Pray. Pray for me. Pray for yourself. Pray for the world. I pray for you. May the Lord work in your life the way that only He can. May he be with you, inspiring you to be exactly as he desires. May you realize your impact here on Earth and seek everlasting life through Him. In His glorious name I pray; Amen.