Je t'aime

Scrapping the Music Challenge #188

2012-01-30T21:58:00.000-06:00

Another song I had fun with by Kenny Chesney with Dave Matthews "I'm Alive." For this Scrapping the Music challenge, I took the lyrics "I thank my lucky stars." I had fun just putting the different word stickers on this one and a few pics of day to day life. Being thankful is something I need to constantly be doing...best remedy for a grumpy attitude ;) For those stars, I played around with pattern paper and made a weave. I cut the white part of the stars out with Silhouette, glued on top and then cut around.

Hope you can join us...last time to play this month to have a chance to win this journal by Papayaart.

Chinese New Year Happenings

2012-01-26T13:47:00.000-06:00

After picking up Emma from school (Dennis took off from work), we all went to our favorite Chinese restaurant. Ate good, of course, and then gave Emma her red envelope...her face says it all...

She couldn't wait to feed the fish, so our friend, Mandy, brought Emma two cups to feed these little big guys ;)

goofy shot of the three of us...

And yes...she finally decided she was ready to wear her Bama shirt! We tried not to make a big deal...but too cute!

So my dilemma...I really wanted to bring something to her school...but then my first thought was...is that singling her out. She, like most 3 1/2 year olds, are not telling you exactly what they are thinking. I went ahead and bought a big container of fortune cookies and so glad I did...she was sooo excited.

And apparently so were the teachers and the rest of her school...they put another rug out just for all things for Chinese New Year...they had so much interest from the kids, they had to print China flags for them to color.

I asked Emma if she wanted to bring some of her books about the celebration. She helped me pick them out and she also had told the teachers about the picture of me and Dennis at the Great Wall of China and wanted to bring that too! Okay...so after she fell asleep, I made a really quick book of our one-day stay in Beijing...

I showed her the book I made for her and her class and she just smiled...

I added a little wikipedia info about some things for the teachers to help explain...

I used very inexpensive cardstock from Hobby Lobby and then bound it with the Zutter.

She was so excited to share her favorite books...

but I also found out each day that she all of a sudden blossomed even more than she had been this last month. She helped pass out the fortune cookies, she was telling the teachers things they didn't know, and was so excited everyday. I was shocked because she and so happy to see she really is into the Chinese New Year. We struggle with that because "we" celebrate it because we are now an American-Chinese family. And we know that she is really an all-American girl who will probably wonder, as she gets older, why are we celebrating this holiday when I'm American.

I am so excited that she is excited because she should be proud. She should know her heritage..."our" heritage...we are in this together. We want her to be proud of being born in China, of having her heritage there. Chairman Mao was born in her same province...how awesome to share with her these little details.

Next year, I'll be better prepared and now know that she IS excited and wants to celebrate the Chinese New Year with her school and friends. So by the time, I got to Party City, all of the red envelopes were gone. I bought some inexpensive red paper again, used the Silhouette, and made our own. Emma helped!

The girl is good with the glue gun!

Kept them pretty simple, but for the first time, I showed her the special stamp we had made for her with her name in English and in Chinese while we were in China. Her face lit up.

I used the Cantonese and the two Mandarin ways to say Happy Chinese New Year with three different fonts, and copied and pasted over and over again until the document was covered. The teachers appreciated this so they could know the different ways to say it...and Emma was proud to tell them that I did this.

And lots and lots of chocolate coins...the kids loved their little red envelope with these.

More celebrating going on this weekend!

Scrapping the Music #187 and Project Life Week 3!

2012-01-23T22:30:00.000-06:00

Whohoo, I feel good...I knew that I would. Fun fun fun song. And I...well...had fun with this one. And thanks to living with a 3 1/2 year old who likes to be like her Momma and tell me how to pose for pictures (she's all into emotions, of course, the little drama queen). So after about 50 pictures I had to go through, I am glad I kept a few...

Just took some American Craft letter stickers (I should have gotten a little more adhesive off, the paper did tear a little, but not bad), and sprayed a couple of different colors. I masked too with a negative left over from cutting circles. I put the pictures together in Photoshop Elements on a 8 1/2 X 11 size canvas/new document and just cut them out as is, put a little paint around edges, and layered on top of paper. I've been using this iPhone app for my phone photos, thanks to my friend Linda...I love it more than Instagram. You can "kind" of figure it out...well, because it is in Japanese, I believe it is...I don't think it's a Chinese program...but like I said, I can't read it! If someone can, please tell me if the downloads are free. I can do everything but download some extra things, because I'm afraid I might get a bill. But really so easy...available for the andriod phones too. Oh, and it's FREE!

I had a lightbulb moment reading over Sasha Farina's posts about her Project Life and how she is doing it. I was waiting until the end of the week and doing it all at one time...I did better working as the week went on. I don't mind because ALL supplies are for grabs when putting this together.

Supplies: Clementine Core and F Protectors

Xin Nian Kuai Le - Happy Chinese New Year Begins!

2012-01-23T09:39:00.000-06:00

We feel like it has been way too long since we've made it to our once a month playdate with Chinese Adoptive Families. Our favorite playdates, and especially when Merrin comes.

Emma has gotten so much more confidence just within these last several weeks. She was running around, holding hands, and playing with Merrin without us having to play with her. Just so happy to see her having fun and being a kid.

We all bring snacks and share...the kids have a blast and thankfully it wasn't too hot, a nice breeze.

Auntie Linda surprised Emma with some goodies and Emma got a little shy and was crawling on the floor with excitement.

As Emma would say, You Da Best, My Friend Linda!

The red envelope...

She even put in some coins and take a closer look as I had to after she told me ;) one is for Louisiana and one is for California...you rock, Auntie Linda!

And today, Emma decided she wanted to wear her Bama shirt (we made no big deal of it)...and the new princess cowgirl hat her Aunt Lisa got her. I'd say she has some pretty sweet aunts!

And Emma and I right before bedtime, very goofy...it may sound like she's speaking a foreign language, but that's Emma language when she's deliriously tired...HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR! The celebrations begin...going for Chinese for lunch after picking her up for school and hopefully more celebrations later this week!

Project Life, Week 2; and a New Toy

2012-01-19T13:43:00.001-06:00

Week 2 in Project Life. One thing I am liking is how good it will be to look back on...

...I put in every picture again from the week...to me, that's important, it will probably change later. Lots to journal about as well...

I took a couple of shortcuts...trying to get the week done without spending hours. I printed the pictures of the championship game on the back of white cardstock...I just opened a blank 6x12 document in Photoshop Elements and put them on there and printed. (note: my recent Mac OS upgrade doesn't play nice with my Epson R1800, so I can't make my own sizes to print anymore. So I work around it and I put the 6x12 onto a 12x12 to print it)

Another shortcut with lots of photos. The little card size pics of Emma walking across bridge and swinging. I opened a blank 2.88 x 3.88 screen, moved the pics onto it and resized. Again couldn't print that way, so pulled up a 4x6 blank document/canvas and moved the 2.88 x 3.88 directly onto the 4x6, then printed, cut in half...and just slipped in (after putting a little journaling, tape, arrow). Did the same thing for Emma's pictures bottom right, printed as is, journaled, stamped, slipped it in.

I am VERY glad that I did get the clementine kit. I want fast, easy, as less stress as possible. Pull a card out...if it works, great, if not, pull another. Works for me along with my stash.

And yep, I put the wrong date on some of the cards and just wrote on top...not worrying about it and moving on...

And Dennis and I got a message seat from Brookstone. He gets reward points from his company, so he cashed them in and we decided on this. We both have knots on top of knots in our backs, and this is cheaper than going to get a message...chickadee, however, has decided she likes it and gave me grief while I was using it...

Next Scrapping the Music and More Layouts

2012-01-16T22:57:00.001-06:00

This week's challenge song on Scrapping the Music is by Kid Rock, Angeleena Presley, and T.I. called "Care." It's a song that really makes you think about the world and those in need. It's an overwhelming song of the hurts and struggles of people all over the world, and that the most you can do is care. It all starts with us. So I chose the lyrics "quit stressing." I also picked a simple reminder to live in the present, focus on the now. If you've ever watched Kung Fu Panda, you know where I got "yesterday is history; tomorrow a mystery; today is a present." I constantly need reminding of this...to embrace it...

I've been trying to scrap a little more, or at least be creative. I have wanted to scrap these pictures ever since I took them on July 4th...so I finally did it and took the plunge with a 2-pager...not easy for me at all, but I like the way it came out.

Going through those photos, I came across this and thought that would make a good layout as well...

And then, I realized I had never scrapped these photos from this summer. Emma started swimming, we were in the pool just about every day to cool off from this Louisiana heat and humidity...

And then my personal favorite..all about me, ha...I love the grunge look of this and how this came together with the tag in the middle. That was me playing (which I need to do more of, just putting things down without thinking) after watching the first video from JumpStart.

Championship Game

2012-01-13T10:34:00.000-06:00

Finally...sharing some pictures Dennis took with the point and shoot and the Bama vs. LSU game...

Now, see this is the part I would like...I'm all about the bands and field shows...

2 very happy boys...

the final...

okay...this means nothing to me, but to Dennis and football fans it does...so here it is...

the celebration afterwards...they stayed through all of it...

and I was home watching it myself (well, sort of) and I am so glad I got this with the iPhone...love the expression on the coach...

Obviously, Dennis and Dean got home safely, but I was very concerned about their safety. I am mostly neutral to football because I really don't get into it, I cheer for Bama because of Dennis, and definitely I cheer for the Saints (although I don't watch the games)...it's supposed to be friendly competition. I think the one reason I don't like it, is how ugly fans can get to one another. And it is affecting children, specifically Emma. Emma will not wear any sports related shirt AT all. Her spirits were broken as she spotted the color red on some running shoes in a store and said to her Daddy, "it's red for Alabama, roll tide roll," and an LSU fan told her no no no...she was broken, literally, face dropped, and still we have to talk to her about it. She doesn't understand all of this and to see the not so friendly competition from a neutral standpoint as mine and then through the eyes of my child, disgust me. What's wrong with saying to an LSU fan Roll Tide Roll and then to say Geaux Tigers back to the Bama fan? Cheer for your team, be proud. Eat this, you suck, or for us to go through a restaurant wearing Bama shirts and be boo'd. The cockiness, the attitude...so people would argue that you need that to win a game...do you really? I don't like it...it's now too personal rather than just a game. I don't get on my soap box really at all on my blog about my opinions...but there comes a time when I have to speak my mind...

Scrapping the Music Challenge #185

2012-01-10T09:34:00.002-06:00

This week's challenge song on Scrapping the Music comes from the young and talented Selena Gomez singing "Who Says"

I was inspired by the lyrics "not perfect" along with these family photos that I had only just seen this past Thanksgiving when stopping to visit my Aunt. None of my sisters or brother had ever seen these pictures. It was a treasure...and, of course, the memories of we were not perfect, but we were family came to my mind as I looked at them.

This is a great song to scrap about your children, yourself, or to look through pictures and see which words stand out to you...hope you can join us!

And I finally finished the first week of 2012 for Project Life...

I took way too many pictures and it is hard for me to leave them out...so instead of a two-page spread, I have four!

I hope I can get into a groove of doing this. It took way more time than I would have liked it too. Getting the pictures printed up took a lot of time, plus having so many of them...

to me it's still of an experiment and trying to make it fun and not work...I hope...

Will have pictures later in the week of Dennis and his friend, Dean, at the Bama and LSU game!

Bama and LSU Game

2012-01-09T14:41:00.003-06:00

Dennis's best friend, Dean, really lucked up and was able to get a hold of two tickets at face value to the big championship game between Bama and LSU here in New Orleans. Two lucky boys are on their way right now to the dome.

Dean got in yesterday, so we all had a good visit, and Emma loved having him around.

We ate at Mellow Mushroom where Dean also had to sit next to Emma so they could find the words together on the kid's menu.

On my trip to Target over the weekend, gathered up more storage for me and for Emma.

And I bought the last of the Mickey bowls and serving bowls that they had...completely gone. I think these will make good storage too, but the little ones are cute for Emma to eat out of.

Working on first week of Project Life...hopefully will have that done before the second week is up ;)

Lisa's Birthday, Mardi Gras Tree, Crack in Ceiling, Project Life Album and Title Page

2012-01-06T13:52:00.002-06:00

New Year's day was also my sister, Lisa's birthday. I went to LaMadeleine's to get her favorite cheesecake and discovered they are discontinuing it...I think my mouth fell open...that was the best cheesecake I've ever had...so she got tiramisu instead...

this must have happened at school, because Emma has never had a problem with the smoke from blowing out candles...so instead of blowing out her candle, Lisa, pinched it...

this pic almost went to the trash bin...but I love her innocent little face next to her newly decorated mardi gras tree...holiday transitioning gets a little more sensitive as she gets older...so to help ease out from Christmas, we let her keep her tree in her room to decorate through the year (we'll see)...

this...is her "pretty" smile for the camera...

well, "Joy" (made up of penguins and snowmen holding the letters for Joy) as well as the rest of the Christmas decorations are finally all put away...however, Dennis almost fell through the ceiling while putting them in the attic...I will never forget seeing my dad's leg come through the ceiling at our childhood house...ahhh, good memories ;) sorry, Dennis...but he got it fixed already...

And this album has more gesso and paint on it then it should because I kept changing my mind...I finally did a woodgrain etch in the gesso and then painted over it...used gel medium to put the embellishments on it and then sealed it...

not flowing yet with this project...but here's some of my favorites for a title page...thanks for the inspiration, Linda!

I still don't like football...but have to cheer along with Dennis' team...

GO BAMA!

it'll be a tense game...lots of texting going on...

Brand New Year for Scrapping the Music

2012-01-02T21:49:00.002-06:00

A fresh start to Scrapping the Music after a little break...and the first challenge song is up!

Artist: Janis Joplin

Song: Piece of My Heart
(to my sister, Holly, if you're reading this, I think you HAVE to do your very first scrapbook page to this song)

I decided to use the inspiration from "piece of my heart" for how I love to spend time with my family and how important they are to me. So the title "Pieces of My Heart" is what I chose for this challenge:

I stamped on the canvas trim, cut all the hearts with the Silhouette. The top four hearts were cutouts for something else..but decided it looked good to use as the background paper. The photos were taken with my DSLR Canon 7D...but I used Poladroid to make them look like polaroids...tongue twister there. Check it out here. You don't have control over how your photo is cropped...and they do have that "darker" look just like a polaroid (as far as I could tell). My love of polaroids, instax, etc...a little obsessed...aren't we, my friend, Linda ;) Ha!

Come check out the challenge and the amazing layouts by the rest of the team, lots of inspiration...create a layout for this song, scrap memories, scrap a special photo...we would all love to see it!

Last Day of 2011

2012-01-01T12:13:00.000-06:00

our last day of 2011...we haven't had much of a winter...kind of between Fall and Spring...

my favorite thing to do...capturing the happenings of a day...

Emma had a blast running around the yard and screaming Momma, Momma, Momma; Dada, Dada, Dada

mushrooms are all over the place right now...first time seeing a red capped one...

soon "Joy" will be going back in the attic...Emma talking to them (snowmen and penguin that spells "Joy")

the camellias and bees are flourishing

time to get a little messy...

just the beginning...

...of some messy fun...

went back in the screened area to give Archie some attention...

the hose comes out and Emma tries to spray dada

father and daughter..so sweet...

the puddles start and the splashing begins...

exploring

playing

splashing

the way it should be when you are 3

Happy, Healthy New Year to everyone!

The Color Room Palette #90 and Studio Calico Sketch

2011-12-30T11:02:00.000-06:00

Having fun with a couple more challenges...

The Color Room Palette #90 - this was hard for me. I love the colors, but I would not have used just these colors before. Tried to make it my own...

Studio Calico's Sunday Sketch - Here's the sketch:

And here's what I came up with:

December Daily 2011 Slideshow

2011-12-29T18:37:00.000-06:00

When I look at it like this, it doesn't look like much!

December Daily 23, 24, and 25!

2011-12-29T09:13:00.000-06:00

You know I'm not much of a sports person, but I could seriously jump and high five on this one...the DD is DONE! A little overdone, but it's done! I have enjoyed it, but the daily was a little too much...but it sure is good to look back on...

Day 23 - I finally got "My Friend, Linda" in here...yay!

Emma hears me talk about, my friend, Linda, so one day she said that I don't have a friend named Linda...she told me that she's, "My Friend, Linda." I asked her well does your friend, Linda, scrapbook? She said, yes... I asked her where does your friend, Linda, live? She said California... I said isn't that funny, because "my friend, Linda," scraps too and lives in California. Linda you are so popular around here!

Day 24 - Christmas Eve - I really started to put more photos on these last two days...it wouldn't have been the same if I didn't.

and Day 25 - finally here...after the excitement of a 3 year old for the past 3 months, it's finally here...

I did put in dividers like Ali Edwards, but didn't take pictures of every little detail...just this one.

We were really blessed to have so many people come over. Both of my sisters, brother-in-law, niece, and two friends...perfect amount...set up the camera for some goofy shots of "my family."

Every time I look at these, they make me smile...

Good thing I did put a ribbon around...thick and chunky ;)

Being my first December Daily and now seeing the flow of it and seeing the wonderful inspiration available, next year may be totally different.

Archie...

2011-12-27T10:18:00.000-06:00

I had to take a double take at these photos of Archie as Dennis and I were playing Santa Christmas Eve...they looked identical. His head looks the same in each one, but he's turning from a different angle. Really...all he wanted was my lap...he's got his eye on the prize...love my boy...

Christmas Eve and Day

2011-12-26T22:58:00.000-06:00

Christmas Eve, we got outside a little...and just getting ready for Christmas Day...

We went to see the lights at the park that night...

And then finally...after 2 or 3 months of Emma giving her 5 things she wanted for Christmas...the day was here...and she peeked in, and then she went back in her room...

...and then she came running to me...I think she was just so excited and overwhelmed, she didn't know quite what to do!

But her excitement was priceless...

Then more cooking and getting ready for family...and got some crazy pics...just one here to share...

Emma didn't want to go outside with her new Jeep yesterday, she said she wanted to "pretend" drive...I thought, this thing is not going to sit in the middle of the living room for her to get in and out of...maybe she was a little scared...but it didn't take long, and she had a blast...

This girly girl was cruising with her pink Hello Kitty...

Working on December Daily to finish that up and then at the first of the year, Scrapping the Music will have a new challenge up!

Hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas and ready for the new year!

December Daily Days 19-22; Sketchy Thursdays Layout

2011-12-23T11:27:00.000-06:00

Cannot believe Christmas is almost here! So here's that past few days:

Day 19 - Emma loves to take pictures of her, us, or whatever with the iPhone. She had just given us a "tattoo" on our hands (markers) so we got some silly shots after dinner...

Day 20 - Been meaning to get me in here...was inspired by all the fun nail polishes (loving the crackle and glitter polishes) and being able to still wear flip flops.

Day 21 - Dentist for Emma...her second time...not as crazy as she was the first time...don't blame her ;) And inspiration in the lobby...

Day 22 - Emma likes it when "I" share my scrap stuff...after she finished this, she said "can you put this in your December Daily, Momma." Well of course. Added her list of 5 things for Christmas...

And I have found this challenge site called Sketchy Thursdays. Sketches are challenging for me, so I wanted to try this one. I had a few ideas, but then this one came about with seeing scraps left on my table. So I made the triangles using two different pieces of patterned paper. The title is inspired by the Harry Connick, Jr. song "When My Heart Finds Christmas." The song inspired me to live each day as if it were Christmas...so used some of my favorite pictures of the three of us throughout the year and seasons.

Merry Christmas to everyone...may you find "Christmas" in your everyday...

Frances has a Family and Craft Gossip

2011-12-22T09:42:00.000-06:00

I will have some pages of my December Daily soon, hopefully...

One thing on my daily to do list right now is sharing in the excitement of a friend adopting a 3 year old from China. She and her husband are still there and are hopefully getting a good nights rest before their last stop in China before coming home.I know that Martha is a first-time Mom like me, and adopting internationally is already a brave thing to do, plus she is adopting a 3 year old. It is unbelievable to see how God matches us to the perfect child, and everyone starts to bond. Have a look at their adventure in China and her precious little girl.

And I have just found out about this site called Craft Gossip and have already pinned a few things. Any kind of craft you can think of...and full of the inspiration for it. Francine from Craft Gossip asked if she could post my recently layout "Will I Ever Be More Than..." on her website. Check that out here.

December Daily Days 16, 17, and 18; and a Layout to Share

2011-12-19T09:59:00.000-06:00

Still doing the December Daily (DD). It is a learning experience...giving me more ideas for next year, one of which I do not think I will do it daily...way too much involved.

Day 16 - We got the cookies and gifts to my brother and my SIL in the mail this week...

Day 17 - This was priceless...Emma sits by me anyway to scrap...but she had to scoot the chair "right" next to me to scrap on this day. I was not having a good scrapping moment, and she said, "Momma, you are a good scrapper." :) And she made that little embellishment on the left just for my December Daily (as she said it in her little voice...needless to say, it made her day to see I included it!)

Day 18 - Emma and I went to the park one day after school so she could see the decorations (which she loves). Then while running errands, we all met for lunch.

And I am so inspired by Scrapping from the Inside Out's theme this month "Uncertainty." I must have a LOT of uncertainty ;) I have not done a layout without a photo in a very long time, and I am so glad I did. This one expresses a lot of emotion for me...

Scrapping the Music in 2012!

2011-12-17T22:30:00.000-06:00

Yep, I am back with Scrapping the Music! And I am so excited that Michelle is back leading us and inspiring us.

Check out the new look to the site. We will start in January with challenges every week. And we have some other ideas in the works to add to our regular song challenges. Lots to look forward to.

There is nothing like music to inspire you, it is my most favorite inspiration to scrapbook.

I am so excited to being working with the team again and can't wait to see what everyone creates.

December Daily Days 14 and 15

2011-12-16T20:39:00.001-06:00

I've slowed down some on my December Daily...just trying to not have any guilt or stress over it. Emma and I did some scrapping together today (that will be day 16-today), but here are the the next couple of days in the album...

Day 14

Felt like I needed a little filler or divider page between day 14 and Emma's artwork, so did this...

I had a hard time just being able to scan this...so when she saw it today, I reassured her, it was not her original ;)

Day 16 - the school program...so proud of how she did...waving, singing, smiling and NO crying this time!

Hope everyone has a great weekend...although, I can't believe it is the last weekend before Christmas!

December Daily Days 10 through 13

2011-12-13T17:11:00.002-06:00

With doing this December Daily book, I'm having to let go of a few things: 1) use imperfect photos 2) use unedited photos 3) if a page isn't flowing, stop and start and make it flow 4) don't worry about other people's fabulously detailed and out of the box ideas for their pages 5) letting go of perfect pages, it's the entire book that is important

So here are the last 4 days of events.

Day 10 - went into the city to visit with Merrin and her Mom and Dad...which is never enough time...always look forward to these times and glad we made it work during this crazy time.

Day 11 - Emma is a Dada's girl (most are), but she really wanted to come with me to Target and the grocery...I really had a lot of shopping and had already told her we would do sugar cookies...I was a little stressed by the amount in one day...but we made it fun...

I really was not going to do sugar cookies this year...I do them every year from scratch...every bit, even the icing. It's a lot of work. But this was the most special moment to see Emma really getting into a tradition I do every year. She really did cut out cookies. So glad I did it, but it was and is an ALL day event...I'm still whipped.

Day 12 - Okay this is where my black and white personality gets a little challenged. I do not like events or pictures that are on the dates they did not happen...but that is another letting go...realistic. But I did date when she had her very first photo with Santa (which she wasn't crazy about). I also made this a one page instead of two...I know Christmas day I want to include more, so saving some room.

More than one thing happens on one day...which I've put on other days (pages), but I didn't want this to be on another day, because I have some events planned for the next few days of this week. So I made this one out of an 8 1/2 x 11 protector...made the insert the same size as the 6 x 8 1/2. Put the page inside the big protector and stitched around it and then cut it...lined up the holes on the other protectors.

Really wanted this to be in here now and document and talk about Aunt Lisa's visits...priceless photos.

Day 13 - another one that I wanted in here sooner than later...because this is the last week of school...

And also, I had taken with iPhone last week! But this is a day to day event and wanted it documented...

And I managed to squeeze a layout in the midst of all these December Daily pages. It is from a challenge over on Scrapping from the Inside Out to scrap about a specific ambiguous situation. This was really hard. I kind of felt like the challenge was ambiguous. I did what I felt...and that was to journal about leaving my job and what my role in life is now...the picture is from iPhone that I had taken to use at some point with the December Daily.

December Daily Days 7, 8 and 9

2011-12-09T21:34:00.001-06:00

Day 7 of my December Daily (DD)

All about the decorations, especially "JOY" Emma's favorite...

Day 8 - is all about that special music box from Dean and Kathy.

I printed more instax photos than really looked good on the page, so I just cut down the page protector for the two, and decorated the back area of the black fujifilm photos...sewed the bottoms.

Having fun with lots of stamping and "little" interests, but pretty simple...however, today's page, for some reason wasn't coming together and probably because it really was a bad day today with Emma all stopped up, hardly any sleep last night and driving me nuts! Poor thing, but the girl just won't sleep...hoping for a good nights sleep for her and me tonight...

And over on Scrapping from the Inside Out, the word for the month is Uncertainty. I knew I had to do this layout when Emma asked "why she was born in China." It really stopped me dead in my tracks. She really is too young to talk about one-child policy and birth parents...but we openly talk about our adoption...so hoping that when the time comes, we can answer the tough questions she will have when she is ready...

Hoping everyone has a wonderful weekend! Will post more later in the weekend.

The Music Box Dancer-A Special Post for Dean and Kathy

2011-12-08T11:20:00.000-06:00

There's a very special story behind this very special song and gift. One that will be included in our December Daily 2011 for today.

Emma has discovered the ice cream truck...yes, it doesn't get as cold here in the Fall as other places...so the truck was still coming by our house up until Thanksgiving. Emma asked Dennis if he knew what song the ice cream truck was playing...he didn't know, but said that I would probably know... So when Emma asked me, I told her, that's a very special song with a history behind it, called The Music Box Dancer...and started humming it...she got the biggest grin. I downloaded the song on iTunes and it has been played several times around here.

So the next time the ice cream truck came by, she decided to ask the truck driver if he knew what song he was playing. I told her he probably wouldn't know, especially if he wasn't old enough at the time it came out. Sure enough she asked and he didn't know...we told him a little about the history of the song ;) He was so sweet to listen to her and us.

While we were staying with our friends, Dean and Kathy, as we stopped on our way up to Virginia, we told them about the song and the ice cream truck. Kathy decided she was going to be on a mission to find a special music box that played that exact song. They must have gone to every store, until they actually found one! It couldn't be more perfect. It has a ballerina dancing to the song and is a little purse when you close it.

I was lucky that Emma let me get a picture of it or her...and I got quite the photos of her dancing around to it!!!

I knew when she would hear the music, she'd get that big smile first and then just get all giddy...

We can't thank you enough, Dean and Kathy. To hear us talk about how she loves this song and then to look specifically for a music box playing this song...and with ballerinas! Very thoughtful and so meaningful.

Today for school she brought it for her share day (show and tell)...

And the video of Emma opening her present. Click on the four-headed area to the left of Vimeo at the bottom to make the screen bigger.

Here is the YouTube video of the song as well as the history behind it. If you're like me and were old enough...you'll remember this song as soon as you hear it (unless you're like Dennis and didn't get into music when you were young ;)

December Daily and first 6 Days

2011-12-07T13:56:00.003-06:00

Okay...I've been staying up late and in a way feel like I've spent too much time working on this...but this is my first December Daily and a learning experience.

So finally got some pictures...for the cover I used Martha Stewart's Pearl color paint after applying two goats of Gesso. I used white ink and white embossing powder for the stamped image on top (Studio Calico exclusive stamp). Sprayed the acrylic star with mist. Ribbon from Michael's. And for the numbers, I wanted something different...

They couldn't have come out any better...I love how it looks...

For the numbers, I picked a text in the Silhouette program (you could use Word or Photoshop and just cut them out yourself). In Silhouette though, I had to type the numbers separate from each other, then used the offset tool to make them bigger...it makes an outline around the number, so I just used the outside of the number and cut that.

I glued a piece of cardstock that fit the number on the back, and then started gluing the lace down on the front of each number...

Let them dry, then cut out...

Some inside pages before each day starts...I did purchase the Studio Calico Ali Edwards December Daily Kit (sold out now), but also using from other Studio Calico kits or my stash...

I think I have embraced "finding Christmas" as my mantra this season. Can't get enough of it...love it!

Couldn't leave the back plain, so decorated the back of the cardboard calendar...used redline tape and silver embossing powder on the red tag.

Ali did these pockets in her album. I thought I would want to do it in mine...only did this one so far (just got my order yesterday of the 81/2 X 11 protectors), but I think I may concentrate on the basics and then go back and add these goodies...the album is already full!

The back of the page pockets...

My official Day 1 of December - we had 8 pillow orders while we were away for Thanksgiving and they haven't stopped! We are overwhelmed, but it's a priority and we're keeping up, more staying up late...no sleep in December ;) We're thankful though!

I'm doing basic, simple white, and just cut out the numbers and stars with Silhouette...stitching in red around every page...

Day 2 - We really don't do a lot with Santa, and even when I've talked about him, Emma doesn't get into him. Last year, she asked why is he there and there and there...I cannot tell even the littlest of a lie to her...she picks up on it right away. So reluctant to do the Elf on the Shelf (besides a little creepy), but she does have fun finding him each morning...

Day 3 - Life is hectic, so we decided to keep the family photo this year simple. Inside rather than outside, and I used the external flash. Not a flattering pose for me, but still I think it's my favorite photo ever because Archie just climbed right up on me and then looked so cute in the photo with all of us...

Day 4 - to the "Big" Mall. Emma remembered doing the train last year, and wanted to do it again. She also loves the Disney Store and her newfound love is the Build a Bear store. We decided sooner rather than later... I brought my camera and had a blast taking pictures of EVERYTHING.

One cool tip I discovered, well I was desperate. I don't shoot in RAW because of the file size and amount of photos I take. The white balance in the Build a Bear store was crazy...so I did a custom white balance on the grey part of her stroller...worked like a charm. Once you do a custom white balance a few times...you'll be so happy you did with times like these to capture that moment...

I made my own storyboard collage. It is really easy...if questions, let me know...too much on one post already ;)

I know it's simple, but it's daily, so just looking at the overall 25 days...but I think this is one of my favorite pages...

Day 5 - Another favorite of mine. I took a picture of the cards in envelopes with the Santa stamp that Dennis and Emma helped me do on each of them...made it the size of the protector, and decorated on top...

Included our Christmas card. Template was free from Becky Higgins. I just printed them at home on matte photo paper, glossy would be nice too though. I have an Epson R1800 which gives very high quality.

For this page, I used the negative sheet from cutting out the numbers for the December Daily pages, sprayed with the exclusive Studio Calico mist, handstitched around each one (little too much time), journaled, and decorated.

Day 6 - Another storyboard collage I did myself. I wanted it to fit my needs exactly, so that worked for me. Here, I wanted to document how Emma has little places all over the house that she has set up exactly as she wants. She wrapped one of her presents in fabric and ribbon, she takes ornaments off the tree (puts them all over), has added "her" animals of all kinds to the manger scene, the star on her tree was supposed to be for the big tree...on and on...

I think this has got to be my all time favorite photo of Emma (right now anyway)...so that's it...need to decide what to do for day 7...before or after I cook ;)

Had to include a bigger picture of this one...more to come ;)

Last of the Thanksgiving tour of 2011! And Some Scrapping.

2011-12-03T23:22:00.000-06:00

The day we left our stay with Dennis' aunts and uncles, just two hours away, we stopped in my Mom and Dad's hometown. My cousin, Cindy, had just been down to New Orleans for a conference, and I got to see her again. Funny because twice in one month I see her and it's been over 30 years since I've seen her or my Dad's sister, my Aunt Laura! It was so good to see them and meet Cindy's family.

I was flooded with memories as I looked around the house and around the yard. I remembered these stairs that were between the house where Aunt Laura and my grandmother lived, and went up and down them all the time...here I am at 3...Aunt Laura and Cindy were looking through old pictures and I was so happy that they let me take some.

And now, here is Emma going up and down the same set of stairs with Cindy...

Cindy and her family, as well as Aunt Laura, were so sweet to take us around the town to see some history of my family. On the way, we stopped at Cindy's house...where Emma entertained everyone ;)

I was able to get some pictures of all of the tombstones of my great grandfather, and great grandmother; grandfather and grandmother; and Cindy's father.

Next time, I'll have to go inside this library to see more information on my family...but needed to get some miles behind us as we headed home...I was able to get pictures of bricks that my Aunt Laura had donated in the names of my family...very special place...so glad we were able to stop on our way back home. We really appreciate them showing us around.

After our stay in the first hotel on the way back...we tried to get more miles behind us on day 2 of going home...we decided to see if my Uncle Ed and Aunt Dot could just meet us really quick...they were able to...so we met at a hotel for a quick little visit...although "quick" is not in Uncle Ed's vocabulary ;)

So many family members and friends all along our journey...just too hard to see everyone...

This pictures of Uncle Ed reminds of when he was a boy...and I see so much of my grandmother in him...not personality though ;)

Okay...final hotel and next day home! But we did have a lot of fun in the hotels too...Emma dressed Daddy up...

...and showed him how to do a curtsy ;)

I have been so busy since we got back home...catching up with pictures (as usual) and really just wanting to scrapbook...actually brought the little mini Halloween album with me and tried to work on it...so hard for me to do...did more when I got home...but I really wanted to start my December Daily...so I put the book away for now and started the DD...

I'm keeping it simple...taking lots of pictures that there is a story too or just taking pictures and putting the stories together later...which ever works in the end...I'll just sit down after a couple of days and put the days in rather than trying to do it everyday.

Will take pics of it as I go...I try to get as much done while Emma is in school...or while Dennis takes her...difficult, and seems like there is always something to do, especially now...but, I'm trying to make a point to scrap and document these 25 days of Christmas...even if it means staying up a little later than normal ;)

Thanksgiving and Some Happy Scrapping News!

2011-11-29T18:24:00.001-06:00

I'll have one more post on our trip...but these are from our destination...Virginia see family there. We made the long journey because of the loss of Dennis' Mom in February and of his Uncle Billy in April. The picture at the top and bottom right is of his Aunt June. She and Billy always traveled and did a lot together. They didn't have kids, so they could be on the go a lot. We hadn't seen her since Billy had his stroke.

Emma loved seeing her Aunt Denise...although, she had a meltdown when Dennis' brother brought the foster kids they have right now (hoping to adopt), and didn't want to share her Aunt Denise...so that is why she has the pouty face ;)

Dennis' Mom had about 8 brothers and sisters (I lose count)! So there were about 50 or so family members that came through Aunt June's house for Thanksgiving. Pretty overwhelming...but Emma did great.

The photo on the top left are the sisters; cousins playing on the hill next to the house (the kids loved that hill); middle right photos are of the family that we stayed with, Dennis' Aunt and Uncle. Sweetest family. We really enjoyed staying with them to get away from the over stimulation ;) Bottom left is Dennis and Denise, his sister. And last photo on the bottom right is Dale (Dennis's brother), Denise, and their Aunt Bonnie.

Emma really took to everyone...mostly. There were times she wouldn't go to them, typical 3 year old stuff. Then there are a couple of Uncles that can joke around and Emma doesn't like that kind of stuff and would cry...I'm right there with her...I'm not crazy about stuff like that either.

She really took to a second cousin on the top left. Pulled her around the yard. Top right is Dennis, Emma and Aunt Shirley. Aunt Shirley gave Emma the Christmas dress. Then the rest of the photos are from one of his Aunt's and Uncle's farm. They have miniature horses, so many I couldn't count them all. Beautiful property.

And I have to sneak this in because this is my very first time getting published in a scrapbooking magazine. I showed Emma, she recognized herself, but she wasn't too crazy over it. I thought I could get a picture of her holding the magazines, but no go...so here's a picture of my layout in one magazine...

And a mini album in another magazine. I was shocked to see that my mini album was the first one for this article in the magazine! It is so strange to see my work in here. I'm resisting buying a copy because they are pricey. I should get two copies of each though very soon...so holding out until then! I may have to frame these ;)

More pages from my mini album in there...

The layout is in this magazine...

and the mini album is in this magazine...

Very exciting! I had more picked up by Scrapbook Trends. And then while we were on our trip, I got another layout picked up by Scrapbooks, Etc. I knew it was difficult to get into this magazine, so I was shocked! Then even more shocking news...I got another layout picked up by...Creating Keepsakes! Yes, me! I'm shocked and excited to say the least.

I have to say I never understood why anyone wanted to get published, but once I started this past June submitting, and then getting picked up, and now seeing my work in magazines...I understand. It's a good feeling.

It's been an exciting day for me and for my friend, Linda! But I'll wait and let her share her good news! Proud of you, Linda!

More From Thanksgiving Trip

2011-11-28T10:56:00.000-06:00

Hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving!

There wasn't much time for editing pictures and blogging. And then while we were in Virginia, there was no Internet...but we finally got back home yesterday about 2 p.m. yesterday. After over 2,000 miles, staying at 4 hotels and 3 homes, we made it back home. Quite an adventure filled with seeing friends and family...and some family that I haven't seen in over 30 years...more to come during the week.

Here is our stop at Dean and Kathy's house. Lots of red, but not for Christmas, for Roll Tide Roll...ALABAMA

We had a lot of fun...hanging out, goofy around...and Emma had a blast with Kathy...also got a little jealous when their granddaughter came by...but Emma slowly started to get a little better with that. I think Kathy has lots of love to share for all!

Thank you again, Dean and Kathy, for letting us stay with you guys and thank you for making Emma's visit extra special with all of the pictures and presents...

We left early that afternoon and even though out of our way, we wanted to stay one night at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel...now I love how beautiful it is, but I'm still not crazy about how big and how difficult it can be to get around. The last time I was here was for a scrapbooking event. My foot injury was not healed, and it was a huge mistake to come. I ended up getting a scooter! So embarrassing. Dennis thought I was over exaggerating how much I had to walk around or limp around...but then once he stayed here...he gave me a hug and understood.

It is beautiful though...we ate good and also did a horse and buggy ride (wouldn't do again, but Emma enjoyed it).

Dreamworks movie characters were there. And even though Emma has not seen the movies, which aren't appropriate for her right now anyway, she loved seeing them. For Gingy (the gingerbread man), they said she was the most excited little girl they had seen. She doesn't look like it in all the photos, but she was having a blast and also stayed in her part Cinderella, part Snow White costumes from Kathy. She also wouldn't take the new Winnie the Pooh slippers off that Paw Paw had given her. Emma sets her own style...so sweet.

More from Thanksgiving day and stopping to see more family on the way back home...

Stopping at Aunt Kathy's and Uncle Buck's

2011-11-19T18:59:00.000-06:00

First stop on our trip is family in Alabama. Emma gets to see her Paw Paw and give him his Christmas present.

And these two had a blast together. Emma's cousin, Stephanie, is about five years older than Emma, but they have the same personalities and did so well together. Staying up a whole lot later than normal and having a little snack together.

Then today, they made pilgrim hat cookies...although, Emma decided she wanted to eat a cookie and Reeses instead of making them.

Emma looks so tiny...and yep, I think she ate all of those Reeses. Stephanie had a basketball game and won. She is such a sweet little girl and loves hanging out with Emma.

I think we may have to make more trips up this way for these two to spend more time together...priceless...

So glad that these two could spend a lot of time together although wish it could have been more...

We always have a good time drinking coffee and talking with Uncle Buck...

and Aunt Kathy...and Kathy cooks really good too ;) Dennis should be the one kissing the cook.

And just a few more priceless moments I had to capture...

Thank you again, Aunt Kathy and Uncle Buck for letting us stay with you and for the amazing dinner!

Next stop our friends, Dean and Kathy...

She's Sewing Now, and My Cousin, Cindy

2011-11-18T12:52:00.000-06:00

Emma has seen the toy sewing machines in the store and twice has asked for one. I told her, no way...we have a real one at home and we can show you how to use it. Well, Dennis beat me to it, and she is a pro already.

Yes, I know, it's a little scary, but we never leave her unattended. She can lift and lower the foot, cut the thread, lower the needle, you name it...well maybe not threading it yet, but we did show her that too. Of course, it helps to have a really sweet sewing machine ;)

She did some artwork on some muslin fabric and then stitched it...

She couldn't get enough...she kept wanting to stitch...

I foresee this little one and I making some real things in the not too distant future...

And if that's not enough, here's some video of her sewing...as she is a little distracted by the TV ;)

My counsin, Cindy (with the short brown hair) came in town for a conference, so we didn't have much time to really spend together, but we were at least were able to meet her for dinner. Haven't seen her in probably over 30 years!

Haven't seen each other in so long, but then we checked where she is located in Virginia and she is on our route! How perfect. We are very excited to see her and her family as well as my Aunt Laura, and the old house where my grandmother lived. I have little, and I mean very little memories of it...and I'm curious to see if it at all looks like what I have in my memories.

Little Indians and Pilgrims

2011-11-17T13:12:00.000-06:00

Emma has more and more shown the teachers and her friends the real Emma. She has come a long way. She even started singing louder and doing the hand movements to the Thanksgiving songs and would practice at home. But I knew it would be overwhelming with parents and grandparents there to watch.

She really wanted to let loose too...especially when they sang songs I had heard her singing at home, her little legs and hands started to twitch around a little. But I was so proud that she even stood up there on her own even though right before the program, the teachers were about to have to come get me to take her.

But they bribed her just like we did... They said we'll have cookies after...she stopped crying and asked if they were chocolate (shocolate) cookes? That did it...she was a happy camper the rest of the time...still clingy as usual, but she did great and sat at a table full of her friends.

Gotta love those pinecone turkeys. We made some at home, but these are cuter!

And trying to get her to laugh with a picture with both of her teachers...

Busy packing and will hit the road first thing tomorrow morning...so next post will be pictures from our traveling...

Christmas Decorating and Wacky Wednesday

2011-11-16T16:15:00.001-06:00

$300 tree with over 2,000 branches at 9 ft tall for 50% at Hobby Lobby. Going like hot cakes. I think we got the last one around here at another store nearby, cause they are gone...

We had our other artificial tree for 15 years...I cannot believe it's been that long. It was time...this one is gorgeous. We didn't get it pre-lit because I figured that would be the first thing to go, and I want options. But Dennis was very excited about our new tree and put 1,000 lights on it, wrapping it on each branch! What a dad!

Lots of texture and different types of branches...for $149...just couldn't believe.

I pulled out the camera and tripod was just going to play around with some settings to get the glow of the enormous lights on the tree...I really liked this one with Emma and Dennis. She got a piece of our fabric from our garage a/k/a our Pillows 4 Me warehouse ;) and wrapped her own present. Got a piece of lace ribbon from my stash.

But then it didn't take long for chickadee to want to have the remote...and, of course, Dennis had to get in there too...so that is why I'm calling this Wacky Wednesday. I've seen Wordless Wednesday on blogs, but Wacky suits us best. Especially today...because chickadee has had about 5 meltdowns, and I have a feeling a gigantic one is yet to come before days end.

We are in trouble with this little one...more than a handful is all I can say.

grrrr...

working it...

...and a little more working it...

after about 200 or so pictures she took! she said "I'm all done." Xie Xie Ni - Adios - Bye Bye

Emma's Artwork and Handprint Made Into a Frame for Gift Giving

2011-11-14T15:01:00.003-06:00

Emma has tons of artwork. We have some framed, have put some in nice frames as gifts, and just have some saved because they were some favorites.

I have so many handprint ideas pinned on Pinterest, but since we are leaving in a few days, I was feeling the pressure to get it done...now. So while looking in Michael's for something else...I realized these $1 unfinished wood frames would fit her handprint. Then I thought, instead of painting it or having her color the frames herself (which I don't think she would have mass produced these for me as soon as we needed them), I decided to not only show off her handprint artwork, but her artwork as well...

So using gel medium on the front of the picture frame, and then picking out some of her artwork, I laid the frame down on the back of one of the sheets of her artwork. Now I cut it out around the frame both still a little wet and dry, and both times it doesn't cut well...tried a sharper knife too...I think the artwork paper she uses is very thin, plus it had been saturated in some spots with washable paint.

Next I used a little Gesso (or white paint) to all of the edges of the frames.

They turned out to be a very artsy way of showing off her artwork...

And thankfully, we have more of these to save to frame the entire thing just for us. But this one was cut up and fit into the frames...I just traced the template that was in the frame around one of the handprints and cut it out.

A really quick snapshot of how they came out. I did seal them with another layer of gel medium on top...so they really have an artsy kind of look with the shine to them. I did find that I got bubbles where the paper wasn't sticking as well. It's just a thought gift and I like imperfection. But using your fingers instead of a brush may help more. Also, using a brayer over the top helped seal it a little better too.

So for Paw Paw, Aunts, Uncles, and friends that are close to Emma will appreciate these...

I had her "autograph" all of them. She told me she wasn't ready so I had to wait ;) But then I finally got her to sign all of them...I put the date and her age on the back. Since I had sealed these with gel medium, I had Emma use a sharpie to write her name.

I love seeing her artwork on our walls and this one is a new favorite.

Busy Making Christmas Gifts and DIY Photo Ornaments

2011-11-12T17:14:00.002-06:00

It looks like Christmas here already. It wouldn't normally, but we are going out of town for Thanksgiving and we want to be able to come home and enjoy the holidays. We decided to bring some little gifts to exchange while visiting family that we know we won't see for Christmas.

We do little gifts for each other, and I like to try to hand make some things. I've stitched everyone's name on some webbing for a little tag they can put on their luggage, purse, etc.

And thanks to my friend, Linda, and Pinterest too, I've made these mini fauxlaroid magnets...

This is the third year, since we've had Emma, and I've decided to make photo ornaments again. Thought I would share how I've made it work for me. Either Michael's or Hobby Lobby sells these Darice 100MM and 80MM acrylic ornaments. There's another size, but they are out, so I'm not sure of the exact size of that one.

Now, you could probably print a large photo and use the ornament and trace around part of your photo, and then cut out. I do it this way using Photoshop Elements, print it on a 4x6, and then I cut it out...

(sorry for the typo)

I've got my photos printed (there's my stack of fauxlaroids too...I did a lot).

Archie likes to hang out with me in the scrap room...so working around him to cut out the photo. I leave tabs on each side. Click on any of these pictures to see it larger...

And if you're like me, and have cut all the way around and forgot to leave the tabs...do this first, make your tabs, then cut around...

You won't need a tab that long.

This is where it takes a little patience. Some come out better than others, that is just the way it is. Fold the tabs. You want to be able to glue the tabs to either side of the inside of the ornament.

It can look kind of messy with the glue, but that will be covered up later with ribbon. It is a little tricky getting it in but don't worry about getting it just right. Trim those tabs sticking out. If you want to, you can sprinkle some fake snow or die cuts, sprinkles or whatever to add to the festive look. I couldn't find the color that I wanted, so I used my Silhouette and some Hambly paper to cut some snowflakes.

I use this Beacon Adhesives Fabri-Tac glue. It's like a hot glue gun without burning myself.

Do the same for the other side...put the flakes or snow or anything else on the other side too, then snap it shut.

I have gotten these pictures closer before, but I'm not going to worry about it...the ribbon will help cover that part up. Michael's had the Celebrate It ribbon for 40% I think. But I didn't realize it would be so sheer...so I doubled it up. You could use a wider ribbon if you like as well.

Michael's had their holiday floral 40% so I got this...

...and this...going with the lavender/purple look this time. I usually do blue.

Snip some leaves off and glue on either side of the hoop at the top of the ornament.

Next, I make my tag. I have some Making Memories metal glitter tags left over, so that's what I used for this.

You can just trace on the outside of the tag, then measure the inside dimensions and trim the rest off, it fit perfectly.

I pulled out some Hambly overlays for this...perfect color and the elegance I wanted.

I have found that it's better if I try to flatten the sides myself with a ruler or other hard object...

Then I'll use the Making Memories tool...but really anything heavy to smash it...this tool is not essential to make it work, not worth the money. (more ideas for a tag: use painted cardboard with pretty paper glued on top, then use paint the edges with a leaving pen in silver or gold. It will look like it has a metal around it; you could just use a small office tag too - but pack well so it doesn't get all bent up until the next year)

I like to put the year on the tag using some Thickers or letters from my stash.

Be sure to go ahead and put your ribbon of choice through the hoop at the top of the ornament so you can hang it on the tree.

I like to thread a jingle bell on the ribbon too.

Tie your tag on (if you want it to dangle more, you could use twine or a chain). I snipped some of the flowers and found some pretty brads in my stash...put one on each side. Glue really well and hold down...but be sure to hold your ribbon hanger up while doing this so you don't accidentally glue that down.

Here is our 2009, our first Christmas...

2010

And this year, 2011. They really add a lot to the tree...nice and sparkly, but also love looking back at the photos... I was thinking you could put family photos, pet photos, you could make a little miniature village in their even...and you could decorate it however you want to, lots of possibilities. But my favorite is using it to put photos on the tree...I am very sentimental if you haven't noticed already ;)

Next, I'll post some frames I've made with Emma's handprint and her artwork...

Some Scrapping to Share

2011-11-09T10:50:00.003-06:00

Missing my scrapping so much. But have been so under the weather and I actually didn't feel like scrapping about Emma. Sounds terrible I know. I was feeling like I needed a little more. I had stumbled on this scrapbooking kit site called Scrapping from the Inside Out. And I just kept going back to the site, because I felt like it was what I really needed especially when it comes to scrapbooking lately.

I think between still getting over this cold/sinus infection or whatever it is and Emma becoming more of a little girl had gotten the best of me. I did this last year when she turned 2...I felt completely drained. I couldn't keep up with her. Now...here we go again...but at a faster and more intense level. She has completely worn me out. I have nothing else to give. So I scrapped about myself for a nice change.

I did have a birthday, scrapped it...

Remembering what it was like up until that time when we first met Emma and she became ours. A picture of us in Beijing right before flying to her Province. I hear people say, I can't remember how it was without their child in their lives. I always say, I can totally remember how it was, and yes, I miss it. But, I can't imagine not having her in my life. She is worth it.

And scrapping about probably my most favorite hobby. I'd rather shoot pictures than do anything else. It really is my passion. I just cannot learn enough about photography.

And carving out that time to walk and do something for myself. This is what I need most of all right now.

Then I finally felt like doing some scrapping related to Emma...since she is still so obsessed with her stuffed ghost...so much so, that Dennis dressed up as a ghost for Halloween, I scrapped about her favorite toy...

And about our first time going to the Pumpkin Patch...

Did a couple more that are not my typical style that I've been doing...but trying out an old technique again of using Vaseline to resist paint...

and another that is more for documenting Emma's speech. I have gotten all of my pictures and videos transferred over to another external drive, which I am now loving and now I can quickly access ALL photos and videos. So I couldn't help but watch several old videos of her when she was smaller. So I pulled out some photos of her at a different milestones and what she was saying at that time...I really am amazed at how well she has done.

Emma Can Ride Her Tricycle!

2011-11-06T15:53:00.000-06:00

We had been waiting for this day to come! She didn't quite get the "feel" of how to do it. She's had the tricycle since she was 2, but she was also not quite tall enough. For the longest we have had to push her...not anymore.

I think what helped too is she isn't wearing shoes. I think she can feel it a lot better...

Running nose and all...she was flying down the street...

She went a pretty good long way too...about a mile.

We were all shouting and screaming up and down the street ;)

And when Daddy's Little Princess finally gets too tired to go back home, Dad does what he does best...

I am very s l o w l y feeling like myself again...but not there yet. I have figured now that I have gotten sick once in August, once in Sept, and now once in Oct, going into Nov...I am not looking forward to the Winter. So I am taking it easy right now.

One more thing to share. Denise, Dennis' sister has always wished she lived closer to come hang out with Emma a little and give us time to do what we need to do. She told us about a friend of hers that is here in the New Orleans' area going to school. She came out last Wednesday, and Emma loved her. But as I was listening in...it really hit me that she gets one on one interaction all the time from us...what she needs is more time with kids her age, plus being more independent. So I asked her teacher if she thought it was a good idea that she start going to school everyday, BUT still going half days. She said absolutely. A lot of kids are not ready, but she said Emma is. She loves school, she wants the interaction with other kids (although she still clings to the teachers, she's gotten better though), she hates having to put her work away (now she can leave her rug and work out with her name on it for the next day of school). Needless to say, she is VERY excited.

Being able to get necessities, grocery shop, going for my walks, taking care of things that otherwise always get pushed to the side will be a HUGE welcome to us. We haven't had this since we've been home for over two years with Emma. We haven't had ANY time without Emma. Dennis has had to work on the pillows for our Pillows 4 me business after she goes to bed, working late and then having to go to work the next day. I do the embroidering, so he usually takes her to the park or to Barnes so I can get that done. This will be a huge help with helping to balance our lives out and getting the relief that we so very much need; and everyone is happy.

Happy Birthday, Mom!

2011-11-03T11:17:00.000-05:00

She would have been 81 today...

Halloween

2011-11-01T14:12:00.000-05:00

I wanted to at least be in the picture, so I set up the tripod and got the three of us with Emma in her wagon ready to go trick or treating...Dennis finally got a chance to paint on the smile that matches Emma's favorite ghost toy...so Dada was the "friendly ghost."

I was a mix between a butterfly fairy. I got the inspiration from seeing Martha Stewart on the cover of a magazine as Mothra with the moth wings on either side of her eyes...so I bought some fancy butterflies and cut them and glued them (with the false eyelash glue) to the side of my eyes. The fancy jeweled piece on top was a brooch that belonged to my Mom. I had layered very flashy colored stockings on with All-Stars...but the photo looked better with us closer to Emma.

Emma did take the remote control again as she did last time for our Easter pic, but we had to take turns this time ;)

Now if you ask me...this is creepy...hooded, friendly smile...I can't help but think of a horror movie, but Emma doesn't know any better...thankfully!

Halloween was short and sweet...Emma had scoped out the houses she felt would not be scary and some of her favorite neighbors, especially the ones she sees running and walking the neighborhood. So Ralph the runner's house was on top of the list...Aunt Lisa got to come with us too after working...

Every house, Emma hopped inside...not shy at all.

And we stopped at Colonel the walker's house. But there's a house just up the street that goes all out for Halloween with all of the props, mechanical and just for looks, smoke, the loud music, the lights...I never liked those creepy kind of houses when I was a kid and honestly I still don't. She is more aware that it is there, was not sure if we were near it, and it just freaked her out too much...she said I want to go home...so this ended the night...

I think she got more fun out of giving the candy out. So she anxiously waits ;)

She really loved handing out the candy and got even better at it.

Halloween Festivities

2011-10-31T14:46:00.002-05:00

Saturday we decided to do one of the local community events. We didn't stay long...Emma was overwhelmed and it was really crowded. So Emma wanted to be held most of the time.

She did go up to some of the Trick or Treating houses on her own, the ones that weren't scary ;) But always making sure we're close...Dennis was the one she was attached to this day...he was the friendly ghost. Hopefully, I'll have pictures of me with them today...

I'm not a fan of snakes really, but they are so beautifully when held by someone else ;) His name was Butter...he was really beautiful...

Okay...Dennis told me I had to post this picture...can you see why? Hope you get a little chuckle from it as we did ;)

Then today I went with Emma to her school "Fall Party." She was really overwhelmed, and didn't want to do anything, wanted me to hold her or be near me...

Just not feeling it, so we left the party early. Getting ready now for our own little, very teeny tiny Halloween party for just us. We are all sick and really could use some rest. But will not miss Trick or Treating...got the wagon decorated, pumpkin pie is cooling, and Emma and I hit the local bakery for some chocolate treats too ;) I'll make up some Hot Dog Mummies, and Pizza Mummies here in a little bit too. Hope everyone has a fun and safe Halloween!

My Favorite Playdates

2011-10-26T12:04:00.000-05:00

...are those spent once a month at the park with other Chinese Adoptive Families...and with Wendy and Merrin... This time we went to their house...Emma kept asking over and over again to go to their house. As soon as I saw Merrin's shirt, I laughed...Emma has the exact same shirt except short sleeve...

There's one thing that makes these girls a lot a like...and that one thing is "stubbornness." They both have it! Whether it's from their genes or just plain being 3 year olds...

Got some pictures of the girls swinging...

They didn't wear the same shirts, but they both had the same colors on! The little fashionistas...

And playing in the sandbox...where the power struggles really took place ;) The sandbox was just not big enough!

But they really do play well together...we love seeing Merrin!

Wendy and I just needed to be at the beach to cool off a little ;)

The days have been starting off pretty chilly in the 30's, but nice and hot by the afternoon...

And sweet Merrin again. It's going to be really hard picking Christmas card pictures this year. Hopefully, will finish editing all the photos soon and be sending these to you, Wendy! Thanks again for having us over!

5K Goal, Costume for Halloween, School, Bedtime, and Getting Crafty

2011-10-20T15:47:00.000-05:00

I've been walking again since last December, but it's not consistent unless Emma is in school... So gaining consistency again and wanting more motivation and I really miss the feeling of finishing a 5K. I used to do them all the time...I want that good feeling again. So I'm adding 10 mins to one walk each week. My normal walk was 27 mins, so for one day last week I did a 37 min. walk. Today I did 47. Foot is achy and I think I need to put the compression sock on, but I'm going to do this!

This weekend, Emma saw me putting some pieces to my costume together for Halloween. I'm going to be a mix of a butterfly fairy sort of thing...so Emma decides she is going to be a butterfly, Minnie, princess fairy ;)

I've been able to walk in and get Emma started on school work since school started and then leave...but she did not like picture day...big time! She is a child who likes routine and it was not the normal school routine day. Plus kids that didn't have school on the day of picture day, had their Moms with them...yep, she wanted Momma...she didn't understand that as as soon as pictures would be over, those Moms and kids would be leaving...so weepiness started last week...well more like crying when I went to leave.

I knew something wasn't right...so I stayed with her to do some work...and I'm back to staying 30 mins with her at school before I can leave. Today I negotiated and she, well...she negotiated right back. I said today, I'll do 3 works with you and then I have to leave. She said 4...I said, it's a deal.

At least I get to see the work she is doing...she loves math and early reading...

So hopefully we can get past the bad experience of picture day and get back to normal...but for now, I stay for about 30 mins before I can leave...

The routine of bedtime is still the same...thankfully we finally bought a real mattress that will eventually be hers. I really got tired of waking up feeling my butt on the ground because the air mattress once again deflated on me ;) Dennis snapped this iPhone pic of me putting her blanket on the mattress...she snuggles first with me and then she gets in her bed...

Been getting a little crafty...wish it could be more. Emma and I did these glass and acrylic ornaments we got at Michael's. They have glue that you put on the inside of the ornaments and sprinkle and swirl the glitter on the inside. I don't know if you really have to have that particular kind of glue...but it is watery and coats well...

My friend, Linda, Emma will challenge me on that...as Linda is her friend, she tells me...Linda gave me a link to some fun Disney things to do for Halloween...I had to carve the Mickey in a pumpkin...the fake pumpkins, really loving these things...

These little carving tools really do work well...and I've gotten even more comfortable with doing it...the curves and edges are tricky...but I'm getting much better...

Disney Album Finished Up

2011-10-18T16:59:00.001-05:00

Last pages of the Disney album...

I really liked the whole idea of the album with the different size page protectors.

I liked it so much that I think I'm going to start my own Project Life, but using the protectors, albums, and supplies I have. Here's some examples here and here of what people have done.

I want to attempt it and try to make it work for me because I print every picture I take and put in albums. There's no way I could ever scrapbook every picture, but I also hate not seeing them in paper form in front of me.

What I normally do is in Photoshop Elements, I create contact sheets to fit four pictures into one 4x6 area. I just want to see the pictures, I don't need a 4x6 of every single picture. I cut each section of 4x6 photos and put in a regular photo album. I like the Project Life approach, because even if I'll never scrap certain photos, it's life that I want to flip through and look at, but with the added detail of artwork and mementos...

So that's one goal for 2012...I have some time to think it through to make it work for me.

So maybe, especially Emma will be able to look back on the details of our life and her life.

Back to the Disney album...I had to be careful what I put in here in hopes that Emma would not try to take them out for her to scrap. I kept explaining that this is our "family" album of our trip together. She and I did have to get two separate princess postcards...I knew I'd never be able to use the one she had. So far she's been okay, but she's been looking... It was hard trying to scrap with the mementos on my desk...so I had to kind of clean up after myself and "hide" it from her.

And here, I just did a normal 12x12 layout to sum up the trip home in our rental RV...

A few more tidbits from the trip in an 81/2 x 11 protector and almost done, all except for the...

...cover...I had absolutely no idea what I wanted to do for the cover until I looked down at the PJ set I got from WDW and had the lightbulb moment. So this...inspired...

...this...I went to Disney Junior to the coloring and create link and found a Mickey that would be good as a silhouette.

I enlarged him a little in Photoshop Elements, printed him on cardstock, then cut him out. I used Studio Calico white mist to spray the cover. After that dried, I used a little adhesive (Scotch ATG) to make him stick down while I sprayed Studio Calico's blue...which is why he is blue right here ;)

I let that dry several hours, then it was time for some stenciling...

I got the ears from one of the purchases of hair accessories I picked up for Emma at WDW (I save everything that would make good art). I mixed Studio Calico white and red...and started stippling the ears onto the album...

I was still getting some chalkiness on my fingers from touching the album...so I sprayed a coat of the clear acrylic sealer...after drying for several hours, I was still getting chalk from touching it...

So since I had decided on using Thickers (letters) for the album, I knew I would be using some gel medium to make sure they weren't going anywhere. I used this kind, but any is fine...I usually use the 40% coupons at Michaels for these. The gel medium worked to seal the cover, but I knew it would kind of smear and remove the light colored stamping I did on the background for texture...but I had to do it.

Gel medium dries really fast and it is noticeable with the "D" in World being a little off...I should have known better, but it's not forgiving, so there it will stay. Emma told me it is all right if I mess up...we should always tell ourselves that ;) The stars were rubons from Studio Calico as well as the letters and the year, which don't stand out a lot...I may get a Sharpie pen to outline around them...but then again...I like the "Disney World" to stand out...

I didn't have too much of a mess to clean up in the scrap area, because I did it a little as I went...

Still need to clean up a little more. It's always an organized mess...Emma and I are always making something so it's usually a little messy...

Princess Emma working right next to me..."sharing" with her as she says...

Disney Album So Far...

2011-10-12T18:33:00.005-05:00

Took some quick pics of the Disney album so far. I went with this American Crafts binder and the majority of the page protectors are from We R Memory Keepers because I wanted various sizes...here's a link to just one and then you can see the others that are offered. This one has 8 3x3 pockets and 1 6x12.

Used up pretty much the rest of Mind the Gap kit from Studio calico just on the first part...

This page protector is 6x12...love mixing them...and they are good for putting memorabilia from the trip in them. It made me think of redoing the album I did going to China and adopting Emma...but at least I have it documented.

This page protector has 4 4x6 and 3 4x4 pockets.

I have been holding onto the Happy Camper from Cosmo Cricket since it came out...I still love it and used it a lot here...

and then a traditional 12x12 protector...

I had also ordered some of Studio Calico's State Fair and Countryside...and then just recently got more in their grab bags...so glad...they were perfect for a lot of the album...along with just about everything in my stash that coordinated...

an 8 1/2 x 12 holding the guide of animals we could see from our room...

another 12x12...

...and included our tickets/room key, and map of our hotel.

Wanted to emphasize the first day of going to Disney World, so used the 8 3x3 and 6x12 pockets...

the whole trip was special...but seeing the characters for the first time...had to document it well...

Scrapping the rest of Chef Mickey and then our first time seeing the Magic Kingdom...included the Photopass cards on this one...

The CD for the Photopass photos was pricey, but you can add signatures of the characters, frames, etc. And to just have all three of us together...it was worth it...

The majority of the rest of album I used these 4x4 pockets...I knew I would have tons of pictures...so it was perfect...

The guide map of the parks wouldn't fit, so I scanned them and resized to fit in the pockets using Photoshop Elements.

And then from here on, I really tried to be more creative with not using any thick embellishments, only paper...so it would not flare out too much. And I included more journaling along with the photos in my handwriting.

I just wanted visual interest, so used every possible piece of pattern paper, stickers, washi tape, labels, etc.

I had also held back on using one of my Studio Calico kits, because I wanted to use it for this album. Lots of Paper Moon on these pages...

Stickers and labels were great...but also cutting out of pattern paper helped a lot too...

Started to include some of the labels and things from our purchases...and scanned the Disney Dowtown map for this one...much bigger so had to make sure it would fit across 12x12 but in the 4x4 pockets.

I tried to keep the colors to compliment the photos or the overall page...so I used more subtle colors for Emma's makeover at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.

Started cutting some stars and a bow out using the Silhouette and cutting more out of pattern paper...trying to keep it as flat as possible.

And this is where I stopped...almost done...I've had fun doing this. I would definitely do another album like this and may consider redoing our trip to China like this too...the rest will come later...

Planning on Some Scrapping Time

2011-10-10T09:33:00.000-05:00

I really wanted to get more work done on the Disney album. Whenever my friend, Wendy, and I get together, we talk about food and the Pioneer Woman...so she inspired me to search for some good dishes to make. This stir fry was so good last Monday, that I made it again Saturday. Emma loves the baby corn, but only when it's got the sauce on it ;)

I finally found Arrowroot in the spice isle instead of using corn starch the first time. I didn't notice a huge difference in it thickening, but maybe if we hadn't eaten all of the stir fry as so soon as it was ready, it would have had time to sit and thicken a little, but we were hungry.

The third time I make this, I will add extra corn for chickadee and I will make a double batch...one isn't enough for all of us plus some leftovers for all of us...but it is a meal fit for Princess Emma...winner winner chicken dinner!

Emma pulled out the Hello Kitty clock radio. Thanks again, Melissa, for giving us this...she is being well taken care of...her time just isn't set so she was flashing numbers... We listened to some classic rock. Aunt Lisa and I have been teaching Emma about The Who and Elton John over the weekend...she really liked them too...that's my girl.

And I couldn't resist getting these at Target...always expensive buying mixes like this, but so good. Too many peanuts for me and not enough chocolate for Emma...I had to weed out some of those peanuts.

So the rest of the day, I did some scrapping...I haven't been able to do much, not just scrapping, just anything unrelated to Emma. So it was a good feeling...was able to do more on Sunday. So with Dennis here to give her undivided attention, I was able to have a little "life." They were busy chalking outside...

And then didn't realize when they came inside, the chalk was still on their feet...

Big feet, little feet...feet, feet, feet...I can't help but think of the Dr. Suess' Foot Book seeing all these feet! And yes, Dennis cleaned it up...thank you!

This week, I'm planning on changing up my walk a little bit. I am setting some new goals for myself...will see how that goes! And a few pictures of the Disney album to share later this week...

21 Years Ago Today

2011-10-06T07:48:00.000-05:00

We were married. Changed quite a bit! So if you're needing a little chuckle...this will be a good one. Dennis had no gray hair yet and no wrinkles, and the bigger my hair could get the better. If I could get my bangs to touch the roof of my car, I knew I did good. Lots of layers and a spiral perm. And my weight...well...all my life since 10 has been up and down...

We flew into Orlando for our honeymoon...I got my clothes at The Limited...have no idea where Dennis got his, but we're looking very dated. I still have my jewelry too from this picture.

And some wedding photos...I love this photo...because it is taken in our living room of the house I grew up in. You can see the wood paneling and the groovy love seat. This was home for me for 23 years...

Emma and I were at the Starbucks in Barnes and Nobles and a bride was meeting with her photographer. He was trying to work out details of taking photos of both sets of families. He said for him, that is the most important part because you will be able to look back at photos of your families.

All I can do is tell Emma that these are her grandparents and that she was named after my mom...but at least I have photos to show her her grandparents...

And the same for Dennis' family now since the sudden passing of his Mom this past February...

So these are Emma's grandparents...she'll never know them...but hopefully she'll understand who they are one day.

And just a few pictures from our honeymoon at Disney...here's us with Chip...

Here on the jungle cruise ride...loving those shoulder pads in my T-shirt...and I still have those earrings...

Back in the day...there were paper tickets...

And a very fast quick card for Dennis while he took Emma to the park...Happy 21 year Anniversary!

Picking a Pumpkin from Pumpkin Patch and Painting It

2011-10-05T08:59:00.000-05:00

I can see how you could live through a child. Something as simple as a Pumpkin Patch...I had never been to one and didn't even know we had any down here...always thought that was more up north. But thanks to my friend, Wendy, we found out about this place...I don't know who was more excited, me and Dennis having never been to a pumpkin patch, or Emma...

Emma wanted the "BIGGEST ONE EVA" as she says...so we tried our best to find that perfect one...

The family left me as again I see those cute photo ops, and they're waiting on me again ;) The pumpkin is loaded up and now we're ready to do more playing...

Had to sneak in another quick picture...

The first fun thing to do...we head straight for this HUMUNGOUS RED tarp rubbery thingy that must have some serious air going through the bottom of it...we ALL got on, tried to get a few pics...isn't she cute, both feet our off and she is bouncing!

I realized picture taking while ON this thing was a losing battle...

Weeee....

So we try for just a few shots to capture our fun...and then to heck with that...we ALL wanted to bounce around and just have fun...

Such a cute "little" place, but not really little...

Emma also loved pretending to ride the horse and wagon...goofy pic, but a favorite of me and her being goofy...we're singing "giddy-up, giddy-up, giddy-up up up" Both she and I make up songs...as Dennis says, we're two peas in a pod...

Took advantage of the photo ops...even though the pumpkins and the sun are giving us an orange glow...But this is my ALL time FAVORITE photo of Dennis and Emma!

More orange glow...but she's actually smiling for the picture! Or maybe it's because she's on Momma's lap and I tend to make her laugh. She is VERY attached to me even more than ever right now...

Okay...all done...she's ready to hit the road and we're ready for Cracker Barrel...but wanted a few more pictures around the place...so while holding her...I got these shots...

Then the next day, she's ready to paint her perfect "BIGGEST EVA" pumpkin ;)

I asked her if I could take pictures of her painting, she said ok...

Then she wanted to pull out the FujiInstax to do what I was doing...thankfully there was still some film in it...need to get more...but may have to be for Christmas...not an inexpensive hobby...

We're ready for Halloween...decorated, still working out details of costumes...

Games, Fall, Decorating

2011-09-29T10:44:00.000-05:00

I love Fall and wish we could enjoy the season as it should be way down south here. But the days are growing shorter and it's still my favorite time of year...

It makes getting outside a little better...although still having very hot days...

But when it's not too bad, we've been able to enjoy some fun outside...Emma is not one to really like to get dirty...but she loved playing in the mud! I did too as a kid...mud pies were the best!

And we're still going strong with playing UNO...she loves this game...

And last week we started decorating and this was just the beginning...cut these with the Silhouette...

Also cut Emma a ghost (her favorite) that she could decorate...and we hung up...

I had never carved a pumpkin...so we got one of those funkins (fake pumpkins) and I found a free template and just did it...hard on my wrist, but it was fun...may have to invest in an electric saw if I do more ;) Emma really liked it and Dennis did too...I think I surprised Dennis that I could actually do it!

And playing more games...then Emma got Dennis to do her nails...ha! We've done nails again since then...last night...but I did them for her. Dennis does a pretty good job though!

And have started scrapbooking our Disney trip...

Emma was so brave...she got her flue shot yesterday. She didn't want the nose stuff...she said shot...but she was so brave...it was hurting her while the medicine went in...I said hold me tight and it's okay to cry...so she finally did...

And while we waited 15 mins to make sure no reaction...got her updated weight...she has gained a pound...wow! 25.7 The shirt she has on is a 3T and it is kind of falling off her shoulder...the shorts are 18 mos, but we had to take them in on both sides to stay up!

And just a quick snapshot photo of her (she was not really wanting pictures taken) going to school today and there's the pumpkin that I carved next to her on the floor...need to do another one now...

Even my car is decorated with a Mickey ghost...Dennis put it on...and I was like what is that? I snapped this while driving...I know...I think I won't do that again...but he was so cute flapping in the wind!

Hope everyone has a good week and hoping to get some cooler weather...maybe? Hopefully!

Leaving Disney, Traveling in the RV

2011-09-26T09:42:00.000-05:00

Time to head back home in the RV, but wanted to take a few snapshots of our room and the little details...

We wanted to try to have Emma sleep in a bed by herself. I still sleep in her room on a separate mattress, and when she wants to get out of her bed to come in mine...there's little sleep with the kicking and as much as I love to snuggle...I like space when I sleep.

So the hotel was able to put a rail on each side of the other queen size bed...but it didn't work with her sleeping in it by herself...so Dennis took a day or two and I took the other days so we could each take turns trying to get some sleep...

Mickey is everywhere...you don't see the colors or hear music in the lobby...nothing really seems Disney in this hotel...it's subtle...and always fun to try to find the Mickey ears...

Another angle of our room...on the very last day, we finally asked if we could have a microwave, so we could heat the milk for our lattes. Which we would have asked sooner (lesson learned) because the tiny tiny latte I got in one of the restaurants downstairs cost more than a venti latte at Starbucks. Thankfully, I only got one, but lesson learned...

More Mickey's can be spotted on the shower curtain...

Beautiful hotel and rooms...

So we hit the road in our new adventure of traveling in the rented RV...we're able to stop halfway (Tallahassee) this time since there is no football game going on and spots available at the RV park...so that really helped not driving so much in one day. We usually stop at a Cracker Barrel when traveling, but this was our first...

Then Dennis spotted Krispy Kreme...so we stopped there to get some donuts...and we had to hurry...it was about to rain...and not too fun driving on unfamiliar city streets in a rented RV...and we did have some leaks...

I felt like we were not level the whole night...but got a little sleep...and up the next morning to finally take a look at our surroundings...it was beautiful with the huge trees and moss and a much bigger RV park than the one in Lake City.

Taking out the trash...had to get a few more pics of how beautiful this park was...

Next stop home...

We rented a Class C RV...here's some pics inside to give you an idea of how it looks...

zooming out so you can see the bigger picture of what it's like...Dennis slept up top there...

kitchen area

Little table to eat, play games, and do art...

the shower...

the bedroom where Emma and I slept...

and the all important bathroom...we definitely made fewer stops ;)

Dennis is a neat freak...so thankfully, he did sanitize the entire RV with bleach. The only thing I really didn't like about the RV was how bumpy the ride was. But we were told that a rental and one you buy are made differently and to not compare the ride. A very fun trip, but we were all glad to be home...nothing like home sweet home...

Part 2 of Day Three at Disney World

2011-09-23T20:25:00.000-05:00

Here's the goodies that Emma got that were part of her Bibbity Bobbity Boutique makeover...the cosmetic palette and comb that were used during her appointment...the tiara and the Mickey barrette is part of it to take home...and two new bottles of pink and blue polish...

You can see it above and a little below...during breakfast at Cinderella's Royal Table, Emma and I got the star wand and Dennis got the sword. Emma also got the Wishing Star...

So after are busy morning at the Bibbity Bobbity Boutique and Breakfast at the Royal Table, we're at the hotel...we decided to walk around and go sit on one of the Savanna porches...

We all needed this time away from the Parks...Emma was singing and doing what she does best...just playing around...

We never made it to the pool...she didn't want to go...she we didn't push it...just nice hanging around...

Back at our room...the view from our room...a zebra comes a little closer...

And another view from one of the Savanna lookout decks...

So then we sit in the lobby of the hotel for a little...it's nice because they have the TV with classic Mickey Mouse cartoons on...really nice to have some downtime...

Really beautiful hotel...right there to the right where two girls are walking...along that path was where our room was...

Actually nice to soak it in and see just how beautiful it was...

And, of course, it was fun watching some old Mickey on the TV...

Other families come by...so I took the opportunity to get a photo of all three of us with our Vintage Mickey shirts on...Emma was not cooperative at all...she was pretty tired...

We went for an early dinner and got to open the Boma restaurant in the hotel. Everyday it is a custom that a family opens the restaurant and we were picked. There's a reason why we were picked...again it's Emma's personality...not to mention her dancing.

One of the ladies working there was talking to Emma and pulled out one of the African drums...Emma immediately began dancing. The lady was so excited to see Emma dancing that she asked me if she would dance like this when the restaurant opened...I said she probably would.

So the beginning part of the video is Emma dancing to just the lady in the waiting area... I missed catching it on video with the host announcing us as the Family of the Day...but the last part is all of walking through, with Emma dancing to open the restaurant...

So glad have caught this on video...
Just click on the four-headed arrow at the bottom, to the left of Vimeo to make the screen larger...

The Family of the Day at Boma in Animal Kingdom Lodge from Patricia Roebuck on Vimeo.

More pics of our room, and the trip home next...

Part 1 of 2 of Day three at Disney World

2011-09-22T21:25:00.001-05:00

Another early morning, to catch the bus from our hotel to the Magic Kingdom. MK didn't open on this day until 9 a.m. But Emma had her Bibbity Bobbity Boutique appointment at 8:05 a.m. So we waited in the "Event Entrance" line to get in...

I couldn't resist with only a few people in the park before it was open...

After a little wait for Bibbity Bobbity to open, Emma was already getting her princess makeover. We went with the fairytale princess hairstyle. She was so overwhelmed at first. But she had the perfect Fairy Godmother in Training (that's what the stylist is called). She wasn't aggressive and she was fun.

I love her facial expressions...

While one Fairy Godmother in Training worked on her hair, another came up to start working on her nails and makeup...oh my...she was eating this up! Soaking it in too...love those faces she makes...

She paid attention to everything they were doing...because...you'll see later...

Lipstick or gloss was last...ooo she didn't like that...but the Fair Godmother in Training stopped putting anymore on. She was so patient and did so good sitting there...now to finish the hair...some pixie dust, and then her sash and then the big reveal...

It was like the paparazzi were there...she closed her eyes...and the Fairy Godmother in Training turned her around and click click click goes the guy that was taking photopass pics and I couldn't get a decent shot...well, that's what photopass pics are for I guess...plus he knew more what to expent than I did or else I would have gotten in there more...

She was soooo excited...giddy, dancing, just absolutely loved it more than I even thought she would. She got her little goody bag...icing on the cake!

Took a picture of her outside...she was no over it...she said no more pictures...don't blame her...it was a pretty exciting morning so far...

We were hungry and needed to get in the A/C again a little. So last minute and we were VERY lucky to be able to get fitted in at Cinderella's Royal Table. Both the Bibbity Bobbity Boutique and the Royal Table are inside the castle so really cool...

Emma got her picture with Cinderella, and then we waited to be called...very formally as if you are really in "castle" days...they announce loudly "The Royal Roebuck Family and Princess Emma." So up the spiral staircase we went for breakfast...

You hear a little story about each princess and then very magestically, each princess is announced and makes a grand entrance. Out of all of the character meals we had, this was so special with that little bit of royalty...Snow White was first...

They must really cast these ladies very well...I mean they look exactly as you would picture...and they play the part too! The voice, everything...

Sleeping Beauty, a/k/a Aurora, a/k/a Briar Rose is next...

Then Ariel...she was my favorite...Emma likes her too...

With these character meals, you're also trying to eat...kind of hectic really...and Emma barely would eat, just too much excitement. This one wasn't a buffet like the others, but you could order a "healthy" breakfast or a "traditional" breakfast and you could also ask for more...so it really was an all you can eat...I'll just say...it better be with how much it cost...this one was the most expensive of the character meals...

Emma and me were given a star wand, and Dennis was given a sword...they were having some kind of celebration going on where everyone waves their wand or sword...

And the last princess is Belle...

I think Emma picked up on the head tilt quickly...

Gorgeous inside...and still I just couldn't believe we were in "the" castle at Magic Kingdom...

We had so much fun and it was well worth it. But Emma now was starting to tell us what she wanted...and she wanted to go back to the hotel...we were like are you sure? You don't want to even ride Dumbo again...she did...so Dennis went one time with her...and then I went next...

This was her favorite ride...she even told the teachers that Dumbo was her favorite ride. She loved having control of going up and down...Momma and Dada didn't really like going up, but we let her have control...

Out of the three other times I have been to DW, I have never ridden Dumbo...so the first time I really got a good look at it...beautiful...lots of detail...

So we're done now...it's early afternoon...I asked Emma if she wanted to go back to the hotel and go swimming...she says nope, just the hotel...she was tired...

Princess Emma had had a full day of pampering and being royalty...

She was ready for some downtime...she is so much like us...

So now...she is the Fairy Godmother in Training and doing Dada's makeup! Ha! She wanted to do his nails too...but since we had no fingernail polish remover...we had to say no ;) She did exactly like the Fairy Godmother's in Training did...she said we were so patient and we were going to be so beautiful, you will love it!

Part 2 of day 3, our last day at Disney Word is next...

Second Day at Disney

2011-09-21T21:17:00.000-05:00

We knew we would not have any problems getting up so early plus with the hour difference in time...chickadee was right on schedule, waking up at 6:30, which was 5:30 our time...

So first thing the next morning, from the tip I got from one of the photographers at Animal Kingdom, we headed to Hollywood Studios, going straight to the big hat there to see as many characters as we could...

We're waiting for the park to officially open...

We head straight to the big hat and there's Donald and Daisy...

Next is Piglet

Then we hang around...and got the scoop that Chip and Dale will be making an appearance. Emma looking all chipper, Momma feeling like I have huge bags under my eyes from little sleep and from migraines. A little too much excitement for me...but thankfully I have Treximet to help so I can keep going...

So as we're hanging around the big hat, sweating buckets...we ask people to take our picture...

And then we see Chip and Dale...Emma was so excited, she ran up to them and grabbed one by the hand...I think I may have said this in the other post...some of the photos may be the same...but decided to put everything on the one post here.

The girl is not shy and was sooo happy to complete her autograph book of everyone that was on the front cover of the book...

And then we got in the picture too...21 years ago, we had our picture taken with Chip...had to do it...

Next was Tigger and Eerore...

And we got in that one too...

We "could" have waited to see who else would show up...but we (me and Dennis) were ready to be all done with characters...so we headed over to Disney Junior...

in the Disney Animation part of the park...

You sit on the floor...it's only 24 mins...and we were glad that we were right in front...

I think all the adults knew the words to the songs just as much as the kids...it was fun...

All the characters from the show are muppets...it starts with the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse...and Toodles helping with Minnie Birthday surprise party...

Handy Manny comes up next in the show...

And then Little Einsteins...

Then Jake and the Neverland Pirates...

Then we hurry over for our lunch reservations at Hollywood and Vine to meet the bear of the hour...Agent Oso...

June from Little Einsteins...

And Leo from Little Einsteins...

But Agent Oso was Emma's highlight and the reason we went. The buffet was very good...we loved all of the food at Disney...very pricey, but this was a good way to see characters in the A/C too...and she LOVES Oso!

He came by twice and the second time she asked him to sit next to her...and he did...I said this in the other post too...but she's talking about how he and Dada are boys; me and her are girls. Then I asked her what her favorite show was, thinking she would say which Oso show was her favorite...nope...she says Mickey Mouse!!!

Emma's personality gets a lot of attention...so one of the cast members at the diner came by to say hi and talk to her...she asked her why she was afraid of Handy Manny (for some reason all of a sudden, she didn't want him to come to her table). And as bluntly as a 3-year old can say it, she said he's a boy, and went on to say that she doesn't watch him.

VERY fun experience...they sing and dance...and Emma and I got up there too until Handy Manny came by ;) We got it on video...but pics for now...you can see Emma and Dennis in the background between the cast member and Oso...

I found out about the place the week of our trip and cancelled one breakfast we had because I knew she would love to see Oso. But I didn't see it on the list when making reservations online...I stumbled on a YouTube video of kids meeting Oso at the restaurant...so glad I found out about it...

We saw all the characters...so we planned next to go to the Marketplace to do some shopping...all kinds of shops, not just Disney...very fun...it's a nightlife place to go to as well...Planet Hollywood, and other nightlife type places...

No nightlife for us for awhile though...

Emma got to ride the little train there...the girl loves trains...

Pictures of some of the shops we went into...

Gotta love Little Miss Matched...and they had Disney ones...so Emma and I have matching miss matched socks ;)

And another ice cream break...

Did a lot of Disney shopping at this huge place...bigger selection of everything...it was nice...

It's got three entrances...these are just two of them...

We stayed there and walked down to what's called Pleasure Island and had dinner at Wolfgang's place...very good...

We walked so much, that we took the boat back...

So nice to see the sun setting...

Day three coming next...

More from our First Day at Disney World

2011-09-20T17:56:00.002-05:00

Looking over the pictures, I realized how much we did just in the first day. We were crazy. After our breafast at Chef Mickey's and seeing Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and Pluto, Emma had one thing on her mind...to find "all" the friends to get their autograph. We realized later, she was trying to make sure she got EVERYONE that was pictured on her autograph book...WOW! Read this post here first to see pictures of Emma and us with the characters. This was the rest of the day....

21 years, actually next month, since we were married where we spent our honeymoon at Disney World was the last time I had been here. I had gone with Mom and Dad (gotta get those pictures from my sister...hilarious, not fun with your parents when you're a teenager), then with my school on a band trip, and then with a friend and his family. So even though I had been here, the 21 years from the last time, well, it's still overwhelming. And I LOVE fall and LOVE Halloween now that we have Emma. I wish I had taken more pictures, but Dennis was impatient with me, and Emma wanted to get to the dumbo ride.

Isn't it beautiful...now I'm kicking myself for not buying some of the Halloween stuff I saw there...because the Disney Store online doesn't carry it...

Trying to soak it all in...it had been so long...and Emma was already loopy from a full morning of excitement...not to mention we were too...

But can you tell what it says? It took me awhile, and I had to stop the gang once again to get a picture: What Mickey says all the time, "See Ya Real Soon!"

Emma was in la la land already...Ha! Dennis putting on a smile for me...thank you...Did get Photopass pictures so that all 3 of us will be in it...I really resisted paying money for the CD, but I'm glad I'll be getting it soon...

The gang's not happy again that I stopped or a kodak moment...seeing this again...just brings back lots of memories...had to use the seventies action from the Pioneer Woman...as it seemed appropriate since this is the 40th anniversary since the park opened in 1971...

Ok...we rode the Dumbo ride and Emma LOVED it! We all rode, so no pics... Stopped to see the parade...bad move...Emma started crying...the music was too loud...it's pretty intense, with the heat, the crowd, and the excitement. She wanted Chip and Dale's autograph next, and was a little upset that she couldn't get it when we saw them too...

Hi Dale! You do know how to tell the difference right? They were always my favorite, so here's how you can tell. Dale has the red nose, two teeth; Chip has the black nose with one tooth.

As I edited these photos...Emma ran away from the computer...I can see why she was a little scared...I mean for a 3 year old, that's kind of freaky...

So next, we were headed back around the castle and saw the line for Tangle had gone down and were able to get in...so go back to this post and see us with Tangle and then the fairies.

Then more rides...I had done some YouTubing and found these rides on there to show Emma so she was prepared and to see her reaction. We were very selective in what we thought she could handle with being a scardy cat. Peter Pan was iffy...but we were talking about it, I even bought a book for her and we read it. Plus I started recording Jake and the Neverland Pirates from the Disney Channel. So she got used to Captain Hook and the crocodile...but I still think the crocodile is a little iffy for her...but we did it...and she loved it!

I really wanted to do it because I had been doing some reading that this is one of the original rides at the park when it opened in 1971. I couldn't find the pin that they said they had for the ride, but I'm glad I got to do it again...and again, brings back memories...

We did It's a Small World first...we had to get a fast pass for Peter Pan to go on it later. So glad I showed her this on YouTube...she was singing right along with the dolls...

Highly recommend the fast pass. Very different from our paper tickets we had 21 years ago. Now, your room key is also your park key. So we each have one, and you use the fast pass machine. Just be sure to get a fast pass for EVERYONE or else someone won't be riding with you when you return. It was nice, we went back within the time they said and got ahead of a long line...so took about five mins to get on...

Then we stumbled on the fairies, so glad we did, because even though the wait to see them was 40 mins, we waited in A/C. After that we decided to venture to Animal Kingdom, because the employee who loved watching Emma at Chef Mickey told us to go there to get another good chance to see the characters and it is more intimate and less crowded. She was right. The pics of us with the characters are from that other post here. But here's the rest of the day...

We were all getting cranky...after hopping on the monorail and getting to the Animal Kingdom, the first thing was to find some ice cream. Emma fell asleep in the stroller (WE WERE SHOCKED...she NEVER just falls asleep like that). So we were able to sit and enjoy our ice cream before Emma woke up. When she did wake up, she woke up grumpy. So as fast as we could, we got her a cup of ice cream...now she's happy...

Emma spied the stuffed Chip and Dale...we couldn't resist...and it is funny because she really takes after me with things she likes...my very first thing from Disney World that I picked was also a stuffed Chip and Dale...much bigger...and I don't even know if I still have them...so I thought it was so sweet...

Had to post this picture of Mickey...didn't think it would come out...just getting my settings to get ready to get pictures of us with him...but how cute...gotta love that mouse!

Where we got ice cream...we just found some shade to sit in since there was no indoor place to cool off...

That's all we did...mainly seeing the characters, and having some ice cream...the day goes fast...and when you look back...it was a very busy first day...

Wish we could have seen more of Animal Kingdom...it is like a zoo...but prettier and they do have rides...

If you head to Disney World with little ones or if you want to see the characters for pics...this is the place to go inside Animal Kingdom...Camp Minnie Mickey...

Had to get the big Tree of Life...also got the all three of us with photopass...

It really was beautiful...

So maybe the next time, we'll see more of this...

We decided as we were heading out, to go ahead and eat while at the park...hadn't heard of the Rainforest Cafe, but it was really good...noisy with the "fake" animals and the noises they make...we weren't sure if Emma was going to handle it...but she did good thankfully...

Terrible pics I know with the flash...but very fun atmosphere...

Emma had her "My First Visit" button, Dennis and I had a "Happy Anniversary" button, and Dennis had a "Happy Birthday" button...so when we ordered this humungous dessert (which we didn't know would be this big), they sang happy birthday to him...

So that is the complete first day...Emma did amazing considering the heat, the waiting, the excitement...

And we got to see the giraffe when we got back to the hotel room...

Day two at the parks coming next...

Home and Editing Photos

2011-09-19T16:09:00.000-05:00

Made it home and digging into the photos...

My Mom will have more photos..."you're the best," as Emma tells me ;)

Just a Quick Few Photos

2011-09-15T19:09:00.001-05:00

No time for as much as I would like to post. We are parked in our RV camp and getting ready for bed...but I have wireless this time!

Some of the past two day favorites:

Playhouse Disney

Meeting Oso!!!! I think he must have been second to Mickey for Emma...

She asked him to sit next to her and he did! She talked about he and Dada were boys and me and her were girls...

Did some shopping at the Marketplace...gorgeous...we had a late night this night...since getting Emma to bed so early, we miss our favorite time of the day...so glad to see the sun setting again...

I think Bibbity Bobbity Boutique might have been more exciting for her than what we thought it would be...we were so proud...a little worried how she would do...oh my...she did great! She loved it so much, that she painted my nails in the hotel later ;) pretending to be my Fairy Godmother in Training (that's what the stylist and makeup people are called here)

OMG...she stole the entire room with her beauty and personality...seriously...the Fairy Godmother next to her kept looking at Emma and not the little girl she was doing. And another Fairy Godmother said that when she smiled, she lit up the entire room...

Last minute decision and we were VERY fortunate to get in...we did the Royal Table breakfast...She loved this so much more than I thought she would with the princesses...

Lots more, just these two for now...

And trying to get the back of her hair to show the Mickey barrette...missed the focus...but I still like that I have a memory of her beautiful hair...

It's been magical...

Day Three - First Day at Disney Park

2011-09-12T18:08:00.000-05:00

No time to write, just quick un-edited photos to share before the my time on the internet is up, plus it's time to get chickadee to bed...a fun, filled day. It was Awesome!

Day One and Two of Trip to Disney

2011-09-11T20:05:00.004-05:00

Day One

We didn't rush to get out the door because we knew we'd break the long drive into two days. Got the RV packed and we hit the road...

Bumpier than what I thought, but Emma was still able to do some artwork and she and I played games. Although we played games the first hour we were on the road...she was really excited, but the drive is still a little long for her...

She kept wanting to relax and sleep, but nope didn't happen...

Renting an RV is the best thing we could have done. It has spoiled us and now we really wish we could get one. We were told not to judge the drive of a rental vs. one you would purchase. They are made differently. It was a very very very bumpy ride...but it was soooo nice.

Yesterday was Dennis' birthday, so we got to our destination and headed for a dinner celebration...

Back to the RV to open his present...Emma did the honors...HA! She gets so excited about birthdays.

He got his tungsten ring he had wanted for a long time...thanks, Dean, for the info on getting it. Got it through Ebay, but will have to post the link at another time...

Then the card that Emma made Dennis was next...so sweet...

So we got our rental RV set up for the night. It wasn't as bad as what we thought. Dennis kept having visions of the movie RV with Robin Williams and the guys pulling out lawn chairs to watch us try to hook the thing up...

Day Two

We could really get used to this kind of traveling. Our espresso machine came with us. So at 6 a.m. when chickadee got up, we could get a few shots. And we had the microwave to heat the milk, so nice.

Hi Ho Cherry-O, one of my favorite games as a kid and now Emma says it's her favorite...although she is playing a really good game of UNO right now...

She was up with no delay and in the driver's seat again...she can at least move around in the RV, but I can tell it's not enough...because she is very wired and very tired.

How cute is this? This is truly the way to travel and discover America...that's us to the right...

A little shop...

We got a postcard to show Emma where we were and where we're going...can you see it? Ha! We are about where her pointer finger is...

And now the job has got to be done...the sewage. But thankfully no guys in lawn chairs to watch.

We were prepared to run if the hose came out...but all good.

And then finally we made it to Disney. With only 2 hours 45 min drive left, it felt longer...Emma was ready, we were all ready...got settled in, checked out the hotel and info for our big day at the park tomorrow and then went to eat...

Staying at the Animal Lodge. Very nice, but if you're looking for a Disney feel for little kids, maybe not. But very nice. Emma hasn't said she doesn't like it, but tonight and last night, she has gotten a little weepy and wants to go home. So I think once she sees Mickey, she'll be okay.

Here's the name of the restaurant we ate at in the resort...called Boma...it was wonderful! Buffet. But pricey as you can imagine being in Disney. But it was worth it...we eat what we brought for the road for lunch, so having a nice dinner is really a nice treat.

And the view from our balcony...some of the animals coming closer. They say there's a baby giraffe...so hopefully we'll be around to see him or her...

We weren't able to connect at the RV site for some reason...they did provide wireless, just didn't work. Here at Disney...it's $9.95 for 24 hours with an Ethernet cord (they Provide). We were shocked. They charge for everything I guess. So may not post again tomorrow night, but will wait until Tuesday. Will have to see how it goes...

Tomorrow, we have breakfast with Mickey at Chef Mickey and then we are going to bring Emma to Magic Kingdom first, because, to me, that's going to be the highlight for her and the whole Disney experience...