And the Winner Is.....

My Creative Team had no problem deciding the winner of the Hourglass Contest.. the winning LO was overwhelmingly voted for....

And the Winner is.... Bad Mom? by Andrea Wiles

Don't get us wrong... there were other outstanding entries! Here were the 3 close runner-ups, all so beautiful in their own way, great LO design, eye catching LO's!

Thanks so much for participating! It was a lot of fun seeing your take on my artwork! I have already sent out the participation Bonus Add On, and if you did NOT get it, please let me know!

Now here is something else.....

Enjoy! If you snag it, please leave me a note! I crave my comments!

I haven't done any personal scrapping this last week, but I did complete 2 LO's for a couple friends. They wanted these as a Father's Day gift from their kids, and I think they are sweet!

Have I (or rather, Seth) thought about Nate yet for Father's Day? Yes, in fact, it's already covered! He is getting a new tie, and a book on Grilling that he has been eyeing!

Happy Wednesday friends!

Summer Lovin'.....

Happy Tuesday everyone! It seems that Spring never comes to NW PA... it jumps from Winter straight into Summer. Sure, we have a week of flowers, but its always either raining or 40 degrees. It started on Sunday, the thermometer hit 90*! It stayed that way yesterday, and is looking like it again today. I love the heat! I love getting in the car on a hot day, and feeling that first consuming of heat. Always have!

Yesterday was great! Just all of Nate's immediate family all over at his parents house, Grilling out. Gramma had bought a pool, and the grandkids just had the biggest blast playing with each other. Seth got the hugest kick watching his cousin Noah splash... he had such great belly laughs! The poor kiddo didn't nap all day, he was too busy playing with his 3 cousins, and upon leaving the driveway passed out in exhaustion . I did get in some tea party pics of my nieces, and a couple fam pics of my SIL... so I will have to show you all very soon.

Thanks to everyone who participated in my Hourglass Contest! My CT is currently voting and narrowing it down! I am always so happy when a decision like this isn't solely left up to me! Also a HUGE thanks to everyone who partook of my sale, the Burns' household truly appreciates it!

I have something kinda fun to announce in the next couple days! This is short today, and sorry I don't have a single visual for you, LOL! I am off to the park with Seth, then loads of laundry today... and hopefully.... finally switch our closets over! Winter stuff to the attic, Summer stuff ready to wear!

A Night to Remember....

Thank you so much everyone for leaving Nate and I the sweetest messages, congrats, and well wishes! We truly appreciate it, and feel encouraged and loved.. not to mention the nice warm fuzzies, LOL!

Friday was a wonderful day! I spent the afternoon getting a mani/ pedi.. the nice kinds, complete with parafin and massages. Heaven! My callousy feet thank me....

Then, Nate's mom came over to watch Seth and spend the night, so we didn't have to worry about getting home. I was so excited to wear the *perfect* dress... and it was worth every penny! I loved how it looked on me, and it was very comfortable!

Here we are in front of our house before we left for dinner.... Gramma is the real photog behind the pic. I just put my seal on it for security purposes....

A HUGE thanks to Melanie (one of my fellow PA'ers and one of my fab CT gals) who recommended our dinner choice, and the coupon she sent (LOL!) She told us to go to the Georgetowne Inn. We had a bit of trouble getting there.... Pittsburgh is not the easiest city to drive, all one ways and fast exits, and no way to turn around. Finally, 30 minutes late, we arive to dinner and we are escorted to our window table... The restaurant is situated on top of a hill overlooking Pittsburgh, and namely the rivers and the ball parks... right next door was one of the historic Inclines, which we watched take passengers up and down...

We had a wonderful dinner! We both had filet mignon's and I also had a side of shrimp stuffed with crab. During dinner we exchanged our presents, both new rings~ (Yep Jenn!!! Got my bling, LOL!) I love my new ring, it fits really well, and sparkles so beautifully! As Nate slipped mine on my finger, he told me he'd marry me all over again. (Don't sigh too quickly girls, he's only romatic like this once a year, LOL!)
The sun started going down during dinner, and we had a great view of the Pirate's ballpark, and there was a game going on! This was our view from our table~

All in all, we had a fabulous night. It was really great to get away just the 2 of us, dressed to the nines. We decided to end the night with a movie, b/c nowadays that is a real treat. We drove over the the waterfront (the signature smokestacks are below) and we saw Mission Impossible 3. Great movie! Even though Tom Cruise is a nut, this movie was the best of the 3 so far, both of our opinions.

It was a late night, we didn't end up getting home till after 2am, but we had a blast, and that was the main idea.

I hope all of you have a wonderful Memorial Day! We are heading over the Nate's fam for a cookout, and I think I am going to take some tea party pics of my neices.

Happy 5 Year Anniversary...

My darling Nate....

I don't remember the first time I saw you. I just remember that Mike came back to school, and that you had come back with him. I remember I had a photo assignment to shoot some of the back to school events and the soccer game. I remember walking up to 3 adults and a child, and I leaned over to take a picture of a beautiful little girl in the sun..... Your leg is in the background, and I had NO idea at the time that little girl would some day be my flower girl, someday be my family.

I remember how you and Mike started joining us at our lunch and dinner table, and sitting with us in Chapel. I remember once walking with you to lunch from chapel, and we talked about something mundane. You were older than me by 3 years... you weren't even a possibility. I remember seeing your smile for the first time. You had just cracked a joke and had gotten up to leave from the table, and your face lit up, and I remember thinking, "wow, his smile is beautiful...."

And then it started like this....

I was driving past the Missions building in my black camaro. You were coming out of the Missions building, and I was making a quick stop in the finance building right next door. As I was getting back in my car, you walked over, stuck your head in my car, and looked everywhere BUT me. I thought I was cool. I thought you were checking out my car. You asked me to come to the park with you and your niece later on in the week. I said yes.

Later I foundout that you HATE camaro's, you are a Mustang Man, and that you didn't look at me b/c you were nervous.

I remember being really nervous before the first few of our early dates. But as soon as you came, I was comfortable, and we had fun. At the park we talked about our families, how we were raised. What we wanted to do with our lives. I watched you non-chalantly change Lauren's diaper, like it was nothing....

I found out later that you asked around about me... making sure you knew first what my Major was before asking meout. You wanted to make sure I wasn't going into the Missions Field, b/c you knew you weren't called there. There were even guys coming up to you to ask about me, but you smoothly deflected them....

Then you asked me out on a real date, dinner and a movie. You picked me up, sporting a hair cut. The only haircut you have ever paid for,until very recently. We went to Fatz Cafe. When we finished we went out to the parking lot, and your car wouldn't start. Turns out it needed a new Alternator, and you changed it right then and there. I knew I had just met someone very special, a renaissance Man, someone who fit my bill. The car was fixed, and we went and watched Double Jeopardy with Morgan Freeman and Ashley Judd.

We developed our relationship through walks around school and simple dates with coffee. And even a night playing in the mud with Mike and Steph.

Fall Break came, and I was taking a long weekend Missions Trip to Philadelphia. You came to see me off, and as I was getting in the van you whispered in my ear~

"I love you"

It was the first time I had ever heard those words, like honey to my soul. I got on the van, and just giggled with my girlfriends for hours!

When we came back, I got nervous about a girl who was hanging around you too much. Waiting for you to finish work, and coming into dinner with you. Walking you to a couple of your classes. Nope, I didn't like that at all. You calmed my fears, by telling me one night... "where is she right now? Now... where am I? Here with you, where I want to be."

We didn't even have a first kiss for the first couple of months. You, Mike, Melissa, and I had gone hiking on a part of the nearby Appalachian Trail. That night as we looked at the stars, you gave me such a tender kiss... and then a second, a third. It was so charming, so captivating.

We still had our walks.

One night we had just gone to dinner, and we were sitting on a blanket at Broken Bridges. I finally said those words myself, the words I spoke the first time to anyone...

"Nate, I love you"

Your face lit up, and you kissed me ferociously.

We knew we were getting married to each other by Christmas.

Less than a year later, we were back on Broken Bridges, haven just eaten at Fatz Cafe again. The moon was huge over the water. You slipped a ring on my finger, and whispered how you were so happy that I was going to be your wife. Its something I still joke about today... that you never asked me.. you just assumed.

Our engagement was 9 months long, and we got married on May 26, 2001. My dad officiated. I walked down the isle, suddenly shy to look at you, I looked everywhere else. You had eyes only for me. As soon as we stood nest to each other, you clasped my hand and rubbed it gently.

We swore Forever.

We Promised Love and Family.

We became One in His eyes and our Family's eyes.

It was a simple wedding, but it was one I loved, and worked hard to pull off. It rained so hard that day. Good luck, some people say. We walked in with a Harpist playing, a surprise from my dad. To our embarrassment, she played "As we Make Love tonight" We were embarrassed b/c we had remained chaste thus far, and now we were aware of what was coming. Our reception was fun! We had our favorite meal served to everyone... Roast beef, red potatoes, green beans almondine. We had Carrot Cake as our wedding cake.

I tossed my bouquet, and we got in the car and drove 6 hours to our honeymoon house in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. That week was one of the best in my life... beach, seafood, shopping, fun!

Five years later, here we are. We have a family. You gave me the best part of you, and together we made Seth, my most precious gift. We have had quite a 5 years haven't we? Fireworks and tenderness. You chose a difficult woman (at times) but, boy, do you stick with her. You often apologize first, and you truly mean it. You selflessly rub my back a few nights a week, for an hour at a time. You cook food for me, and help me clean, and you get up and run to the store in the middle of the night, if I need you to. This year was a difficult one, adjusting to ministry and to having a baby.

We still have some issues. But that's OK. We have the rest of our lives to figure them out.

Nate, I love you, I cherish you, I adore you. Happy 5 years Nate. And here's to 65 more!

Yours~

TigerLily

Sale! And Preview Thursday.....

My FIRST sale! I will only have personal sales sparingly, so take advantage! 40% off of everything, and this does include the Homecooking collab kit with Mari at TDC. The links to both of my sites are on the side under Andrea Burns Designs, and they will take you directly to my things. Enjoy!

Also... releasing tonight (and part of the sale) is the final kit in the Hourglass Collection!

Midnight Oil is the fourth and last installment in the Hourglass Collection. dark, mysterious, and passionate tones are the inspiration of this kit, and will deffinately add dramatic flair to your layout. Midnight Oil offers 8 textured papers, 3 jewel tags, 2 satin ribbons, 2 journal tags, 2 flowers, 2 sets of colored stitching, 2 tied knots, 1 word art, 1 glittered flower, 1 vintage pocket watch, 1 sequined border overlay, 1 word art, and 1 ornate silver frame. Also included is a full leather alpha, numeral, and symbol set.

I think it has finally happened.

I think I have become Photoshopped out.

So what do I do? Take an hour break yesterday, to watch some Oprah. And what do I do? Run back up as soon as it was done, b/c Lord Forbid I miss anything, or pass on the idea...

Which BTW~ Oprah was mind blowing yesterday. It was about her and Eli Weisel (the author of Night) visiting a couple Concentration Camps. I have always had a fascination with WWII, and the Jewish Holocaust, I've read much on the subject and gone through a few museums. But hearing it straight from Mr. Weisel's mouth was incredible. Throwing babies in the fire...

You know, since having Seth, I have become so much more sensitive to things like this. Even gorey things on TV, or missing children... I can't handle it the same way, my heart chokes with sadness, and then becomes afraid... and then I imagine the other mothers living through this horror.

LOST last night was awesome! I called it being the Magnet that brought down the Plane... but the light and the sound was awesome. Did you all catch that the guy in the Hatch with Desmond was the American Troop Leader from one of Sayid's episodes? I knew that there would be some answers in this finale... but of course I also knew that more would be raised.

What happened to Locke & Ecko?

What will happen to Walt & Michael?

What will happen to Kate, Sawyer, & Jack?

What is Desmond's girlfriend, Pen, doing looking for him?

What up w/ a giant statue of a 4-toed foot?

What is "Henry" doing leading the "others"?

What is up w/ the weird light & noise?

What is up w/ pterodactyls?

What is up w/ the new season not starting until OCTOBER!!???

My REAL question has to do with Penny....How did they figure when an Electromagnetic Anomoly went off.... that it had to do with Desmond? That it would lead them to him?

Stay Tuned!!

I am swamped!

Busy re-working my photog website (THANK YOU A!)

And making new kit for ACOT (Lavender Fields, anyone?)

Must scan some wedding pics, our 5 year anny is Fri. (YAY!)

LOST season finale tonight (Rock on!)

Submit to the Hourglass Contest everyone! I am craving more LO's!

Great Green Globs....

where to begin?
where to begin?

My dishwasher has finally been installed! And a huge sigh of relief here... it actually works, LOL! In fact, I never heard it! Sun morning I asked Nate if we could finally run it... and he said he already had! I was a tiny bit bummed that I missed the big event! Yep... I am a big dork!

So Saturday, Nate's Gram and Uncle Jim were coming for their first visit. We have only lived here 3 years now, and them... 2 hours away (eyeroll). Anyways, I totally planned on a nice lunch for them. The rain and the cold here the past week really put me in the mood for something warm and comforting, so I planned to make homemade chicken noodle soup and a strawberry cobbler. They call to say that they will be here at noon on Sat.

That morning I wake up around 7..... and proceed to vomit. I vomit all morning. I am vomiting in the shower... when they show up at 10 am. Yep, 2 hours early.

I vomit many more times while they are here. They go to lunch elsewhere.

LOL! What the heck?!? I must have had food poisoning, or some random little bug, b/c I was fine by 2 pm. Isn't being physically sick just the worst ever? Your body can't decide if its hot or cold, or it fights to be both.... you're weak from no nourishment and dehydration... ick!

Seth is finally all better! No more choking on his phlegm, and he finally has boogers, LOL! What a weird thing to be proud of, but it means a dry nose, and that I'm not battling a strong 19 mos old with a snot sucker.



I hadn't shared this picture yet... what a boy my Seth is! You can almost see the physique of a small boy trying to burst through.

I am really happy that there are so many of you expressing interest in the Hourglass Collection Contest! It should really be fun, and truthfully I am just beyond tickled to see my work getting used! Always a complete thrill!

Are you ready? I worked on this ALL day yesterday..... Memory Lane Photography website is up!

Ummm... OK I admit, 90% up. But I wanted some feedback from my friends!

A disclaimer... I really only have shots of my son, I am kinda embarassed that my babies and children page is basically all him... but hopefully that will change once I pick up a couple clients. Also, I realize my buttons don't work yet... still tweaking the HTML, if any of you know how to help, PLEASE pass the advice!

I am also working on why my images are pixelized on a couple pages. But I wanted to see if you guys like what I did, my overall feel and tone, and the message I convey, and the photography represented....

And without further adieu~

Memory Lane Photography

(LOL, ok I just typed my title... can any of you finish the song? I thought it was appropriate considering the ammount of body fluids I talk about today...) :)

Did anyone see Alias last night? I totally think Sloan got what he deserved, that was the best punishment ever! A great series finale!

Hourglass Collection Contest!!

Enjoy! I can't wait to see what you create! Make sure you leave a link to your entry layout in this THREAD.

me...

Silly....

It is day 40 of the rain, and Seth and I are starting to tire of the ark here. When will it end? When can we go back outside? When will we see the sky? When can I finally take off my sweatsuit and feel some heat? (sigh)

Credits: my Twilight kit at TDC, available HERE.

Journaling reads: Silly is definitely a color, and you certainly possess a bright and colorful personality. Keep your color Seth, and let it shine!

Do you like the "Silly" glitter wordart? It's yours! Get it HERE & HERE!

So... I am currently waiting for the men to return for the 3rd day in a row to finish installing my dishwasher. Yep, you read right, its taking 3 days, and they are still not finished! I didn't realize it was going to be a big job. Still, I shouldn't complain, its free installation.... but my house is a mess, and I can't do anything till it gets done. They've had to rip out cabinets, rerun some (new!) pipes, and now it looks like they have to reroute some electrical. All because I don't want to wash dishes by hand anymore. Ok, Ok, I admit... so Nate doesn't have to wash dishes anymore, LOL!

We have a rule in this house that started right when we got married. One person cooks, the other does the dishes. What can I say... I LIKE to cook! ROFLOL! We have recently in the last couple months also started a new tradition called "Treat Thursday" where we just make a dessert, or something sweet on Thursday night. Just something for us for after Seth goes to bed, because lets face it, he doesn't need the sugar... and his mama does.

Last night I made Chocolate Caramel Euphoria Cake, and I thought I'd share the recipe with you~

Chocolate Caramel Euphoria Cake

1 pkg devil's food cake

1/2 c condensed milk

3/4 c caramel ice cream topping

3 chocolate-covered toffee bars (like Heath) coarsely chopped

1 ctn Cool Whip

Bake cake according to pkg directions (13x9). Cool for 5 min. Make slits across top of cake, making sure not to cut through to the bottom. In a saucepan over low heat, combine condensed milk and caramel topping, stirring till smooth and blended. Slowly pour the mixture over the warm cake, making sure to let it sink into the slits. Sprinkle the chopped chocolate toffee pieces across cake. Let cake cool completely. Spread whip topping across top of cake. Top with additional toffee pieces and caramel drizzel.

Happy Friday All!

Preview Thursday....

Available tonight at The Digi Chick!! Twilight....

Twilight is the third installment in the Hourglass Collection. Dusky purples and fiery hues are the inspiration of this kit, and will surely draw all eyes to your layout. Twilight offers 8 textured papers, 2 satin ribbons, 3 round tags, 2 journal tags, 2 satin flowers, 2 sets of colored stitching, 2 tied knots, 1 word art, 1 glittered flower, 1 vintage button, 1 bead trim, and 2 buckles, 1 with a tied knot. Also included is a inked and textured alpha and numeral set.

I am so happy to tell you that all I need to do is the alpha, and then Midnight Oil will be available for you next week!

A message of warning to the lovely ladies who visit my little blog. Please protect your online passwords. Please don't give out a password to a photosharing site, that may also be your email address password. Because there are *some* people out there who might just try to hack your account... and then succeed. And then splash your personal emails around to other backstabbers. And then twist it to make it look like they had the right... Its awesome to know that you can contact your email provider.. and then receive all the IP addresses that have logged on under that email address. Enough of that discussion.

(ETA: This personally didn't happen to me, but it did within my group of friends... I'm just saying for warnings sake!)

LOST last night was "OK" to me. Last week's episode was insane... but so far I love all of Mr Eko's episodes. I really like him. If anything seems hokey and make-pretend about this show... it was last night when they brought Michael into their camp.. It was like a poor version of the Lost Boys. However... how touching and bizarre was it when Sawyer admitted to Jack that he was the closest thing to a friend there. And how weird was it that it was Kate digging a hole for the burial??? Uh... didn't any men see her and volunteer? Next week's season finale looks fabulous, and until then I will be biting my nails. Okay, not really b/c its my anniversary next weekend, and I am having a mani and pedi done!

raw...

Thanks for your prayers, Baby T is coming home today! She is well enough to be reunited with her twin sister, her mother full time... her whole family! Kim and the fam are so excited, congrats Baby T, you did it!

Seth is a sick little bugger. Turns out his cold was nasty enough to warrant some antibiotics. Thankfully his lungs were clear. We also were told to slather on that Vicks, so poor bubba can breathe.

Michelle Coleman's AWESOME It's a Guy Thing kit (I WILL be using this again, so many cool things!) Adler & Adine-Kirnberg Script.

Journaling reads: Your first car! What a thrill! As soon as I saw it, I knew it was perfect for your first toy car. As soon as You saw it, you wanted nothing else. In fact you played with it, slept with it, and ate with it for 3 days straight. I am so happy you love it so!

OK, so the stuff really did hit the fan yesterday. All day long there was hashing, and exposing, and deliberate betrayals. I feel very raw right now. The funny thing is, that throughout the daytime yesterday, it was as if I were detatched... not believing it was all really happening. Then last night it hit like a ton of bricks.

How cruel women are and can be. How manipulative. How sad. What is so wrong in your life that you have to make people feel worthless? What gives you the right to do what you did? How dare you!

Forgive me ladies, for expressing how I feel. But I have to put it somewhere. And I should go now, before I spill anymore, or spread anymore.

Heartsick....

So Seth's cold has raged ahead into a burning fever. Poor little guy is just crying and glassy eyed, and then he looks up at me and whispers "hopt" (hot) in his poor little way. I have a Dr's appt at 1:30 to figure out what is making my little bubba so ill.

Last night at about midnight, I had just dosed him some cough and cold med, to also help relieve his fever, and I was laying in my bed listening to him. I wanted to make sure he was asleep before I fell asleep, b/c sometimes he unzips his sleeper, and I didn't want him doing that last night. Seth starts to cough, that terrible congesty-cough, where he almost sounds like he's choking... and he just might be, b/c of all that flegm.

I start to get so scared, I mean, don't all mom's feel some fear when they can't control what is happening to their children? I say a prayer to God to help my small boy... when I hear something that lightens my heart.

"meow, meow, meow, meow......"

LOL! I guess my son was feeling a bit better... if he felt like singing some "meows".

This morning, his fever was back up to 102*, so I called the Dr. and got the appt.

A few things have hit the fan within my small group of friends, and it is hurting my heart this morning. Turns out that there was a woman among us who was being quite malicious being many of our backs. Now it seems that she is trying to turn it around and pin it on others, but honestly I don't buy it. When I look at the track record, that speaks for itself. It just makes me sad, that we have gone through so much together, weathered all sorts of heartaches and joys, and she is trying to tear us apart. Its really rather sad, and I am so sorry that it has come to this.

Grey's Anatomy last night literally left me in tears. I am so sad that Denny didn't make it. He was so charming, and such the perfect man for Izzy.... I cried! How sad is that, that I cried for a fictional character? I am also upset with what happened between Mer & Der. Am I the only one who doesn't like their relationship? I know it adds to the drama, but c'mon. He's married. Addison is the woman he should be wooing. Izzy's acting, these past couple shows, in my opinion, deserve an award. Tremendous!

I also finally watched my taped version of The Office. I think that last segment between Jim & Pam was one of the best romantic scenes ever written! The tension, and the acting... just wonderful. If you want to see the part I am referring to, check HERE.

I need to wrap up today's diatribe... seems I've rambled on long enough about everything... I hope that there are some of you out there today... I haven't received many comments lately, and am wondering if you all took a vacation this week, LOL!

Monday, Monday....

Is it really Monday again? Is another week here and just getting started? I find myself somewhat blue this morning. Its the weather, I tell you. Nothing but rain for the last week, and nothing more but rain to come for another week.

Goals this week:

1. I MUST finish the last 2 installments of the Hourglass Collection. I CANNOT delay them anymore. I am 2/3's of the way done with Twilight.

2. Scrap some LO's. Get caught up.

3. Work on Website! Get it up!

How long is too long for a cold? Seth caught a nasty cold while we were away. Terrible congesty-cough, and so much green snot. Its been a week and a half, and it is still lingering, despite meds and rest. He is starting to choke on his cough a bit b/c of the flegm. When should I call the doc? Or just let it go? He has gotten completely clingy, which is unlike him when he feels well.

Mother's Day yesterday was very sweet. Nate got me a wrist corsage to wear with my dress for church. After church, Seth toddles up to me with his present... and How sweet are these Willow Tree figurines? So touching! And appropriately, Seth presents me with the Tenderness figure of a Mother and her Son... (sigh)

Thanks Seth!

Nate told me that when they were in the store buying it, Seth carried it up to the cash register, but WOULD NOT let go, and when Nate wrestled it free, he just sobbed and sobbed. Doesn't that break your heart? I love my darling boy!

Grey's Anatomy was tremendous last night! I am a bit peeved that it finishes tonight up against CSI:Miami, I am going to have to tape one or the other. All I'm saying is.... Bush better not go over his hour tonight and cut into the last half!!!!!

Last but not least....

I have others of my sis and her DH I can start showing you tomorrow!

NSD at TDC....

Happy Weekend all!

Has anyone here seen the movie "The Family Stone?" We watched it last night, and there was some very touching moments, and also some very funny ones. I recommend it.

Nate is out right now running "errands" with Seth... can we say "last minute?" LOL!

We are almost out the door to go see Nate's brother's new house, and all of his fam will be there for an impromptu BBQ.... Its so weord how we all live within 2 hours of each other but haven't seen each other like this since October. Kinda sad.

I know I promised a Fashion Show, but I have had a change of heart. I need to be a grown up and not make fun of people. Sorry ya'll.

Got some good news twice yesterday, some big stuff I can't share quite yet... but very FUN!

Is everyone heading to TDC later?? Exciting events taking place!



Also heard there was a Treasure Hunt. Enough Said :)

Kinda a random post... but I must jump in the shower and head on out! HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Sneaky Peeky....

I have been having a cruddy couple days. Everytime I leave for a bit, I come back and I am all out of whack. I just can't seem to get it together this time.... all my mojo is gone, designing & scrapping.... ugg its frustrating.

Here is a sneak peek of the next Hourglass installment, Twilight. I could use some feedback...

Did anyone catch last night's Without a Trace? I was livid after the show. Its the first time I have seen a non-resolved issue and actually felt anger that they didn't say who was who. Who do you think it was? I kinda hoped it was the girl who passed away...

My MIL is coming over tonight. Its our church's annual Mother & Daughter Banquet, and she comes with me every year, b/c my own mom lives too far away. It'll be fun, the ladies who put it together always do a really nice job with food, decoration, and with entertainment. Last year we learned about flower arrangement, and this year I have heard its an artist of some sort, so we'll see.

What are your Mother's Day plans? I think we are going to a fave restaurant of mine, The Log Cabin for lunch. Other than that, not much. Nate (or should I say Seth?) got me a couple Willow Tree figures last year, so maybe I'll get a couple more this one.

And as promised.....

TGIF All!

Is it a Plane?

I have thoroughly been enjoying Softsoap's new Pomegranate & Mango Bodywash~ it is just spectacular! The smell is outrageously wonderful! I have been using Dial's Lavender & Oatmeal... but wanted a quick break, and this is the perfect summer scent!

I am late (again!) in posting today... it was a rough morning for Seth and I. He would have nothing to do with Cheerios for breakfast, so of course, when my back is turned, he munched on a couple crayons. (sigh) At least they are non-toxic. And then, I came upstairs, and really got involved in this LO. I feel so behind in my personal scrapbooking.... I must remedy that.

Gina Miller's Grass Roots kit. ScrapArtist Schmootsy Alpha, Jen Wilson notecard, Rhonna Farrer birdstamp & date, Susie's Hand font.

Journaling reads: My child, my love... may you always look ahead. May the sun shine on your path, and May God always lead your heart and soul. Always look ahead darling. Don’t look back, don’t dwell. May you grow to be a wonderful man like your father, and may you love your children like he does you. Look ahead Seth, there are so many promises for you, so much....... Look ahead.

Lets talk LOST. Holy Batman!! I can't believe Libby dies too! I totally miscalled that one. I did read an interview recently that their deaths had nothing to do with their DUI's, in fact Michelle Rodriguez specifically only signed on for one year. Did anyone notice they were looking into the sky at the end of the preview? Maybe they are witnessing another plan crash?

And has anyone else caught the baloney Hanso Commercials? I've seen them 2 weeks in a row... commercials done in commercial breaks, but its the same co. as the Hatch organizations...

And last, but not least today.... a couple more of Nate and I... the last one being completely silly... Has anyone recognized the dress yet? LOL!

Oh.... and a quick Thank You. You know who you are, even if I don't. I had convictions about it in the beginning, and you helped me recognize that.

Family....

The votes are in!! This weekend there will be a Bridge Walk Fashion Do's & Don't's! Hee, hee just wait! You won't be disappointed.

So, OK. I started the Twilight kit yesterday, and I am not loving it so far. I have a couple awesome papers... but need to scratch a couple from yesterday. My stripe paper is rockin'! Think of a real twilight... where the gold's and reds blend into dusky purples... yumm!

My mood the past few days has not been the best. I think it has to do with my family. Why is it, the last last day you are visiting with your family... you realize that it was one day too many, and everyone is on everyone's nerves? Take my youngest sister for example. She is about to finish Police Academy. She has always been a bit aggressive, obnoxious... now lets add cocky to the mix. At dinner she was bragging about getting pepper sprayed in the face (they have to experience these things) and she had the gall to mention that it probably hurt worse than childbirth.

Hmph. Really, is that so?

I told her about how I tore badly inside up both sides and needed quite a few stitches. She goes on to smugly ask, "yeah... but how long did that hurt?" (I could tell she was about to say her pepper spray hurt longer)

"I had to sit on a donut for two months. And you?" That was when my mom interjected that we all have varying levels of pain... yada yada yada.

My sisters are just still immature and selfish, and it drives me batty. And of course I can't just back down. That's my weakness. They push my buttons.

But then it got me thinking. Why aren't we closer? Why aren't we more encouraging and loving with each other? My parents deeply love each other, and often spent their evenings with each other in their own den, leaving us three girls by ourselves... Could that have something to do with it? Was there something my parents could have encouraged more in us?

And then I flash to the future with Seth and his siblings... What can I do to encourage a love and friendship between them? Any thoughts from you more experienced parents? I would LOVE to hear them.

On a lighter note... Have you been to LeXiee's blog lately? She has the most hysterical Shakira video running on it...

OK, as promised... some pics of the day! Nate and I.... tripod and self timer remote...

D70s, 50mm, ISO 200, F1:8, 1/1600

Keep coming back to see more!!

Moanday....

Lets see.... the trip(s) went well. I hardly saw Nate at all the whole week. I was cooped in the hotel for Conference b/c obviously Seth wouldn't have any of the meetings. Thank God there was a mall right across the street with a really nice Indoor play area. (this is where Seth got his first b.o.o.b.i.e flashes, and where his mom (ME!) swooped in on a bully and nipped the manipulation in the bud, LOL)

Like I said earlier, We were able to get limited internet acces on his palm pilot! See? Isn't that fun? Of course... there's me, cheesing it big time, so thrilled I could see some things!




Then we went to MD. Nate had his show, which sadly he didn't do so well. It wasn't just him, the turnout just wasn't what everyone hoped. We just broke even, which was OK, but this was supposed to be the money maker show of the year. Ah well. He made some great contacts, and was able to get his name out and such.

The Bridge Walk was a ton of fun! Lookie at me!

That's me with Maryland's Governer Erlich. How dorky am I? Actually I think my Bro-in-law is a bit dorkier, b/c of the 3 pics taken, this was the least fuzzy.

Now, My BIL, Butch, is quite the nut. He challenged me to take pics of people walking the bridge deffinately violating Fashion Do's & Don'ts. I have some awesome shots! You can't see their faces.... would it still be terrible if I posted them on this blog? Or would it be amusing to you all too? Maybe the weekend issue of Embellish Blog will be all about Bridge Walk Fashion Don'ts.

Blogger has been down all morning, and that is the reason I am late... I need to get in the shower, and I need to start my Twilight kit.

When I was away I took a Bajillion pics, and can I start clapping?!?!? I got some romantic ones of Nate and I!!! YAY! Of course... pics of the day will resume! I think I have enough to run a couple weeks, LOL!

BTW~ Did you see my Memory Lane link on the side??? Check it out......

TOOT....(well...kinda)...

It is out!! Rock on, I have been waiting for this! Like everyone else, I submitted about a dozen LO's for this issue, but (sigh) I did not get a call....

But does it still count as a TOOT if my name is in there? I certainly felt a thrill when I saw my name! Right there in the bookstore... there it was... page 79, the first name listed in the ACOT ad. Fabulous! I showed everyone, including the sales associate who checked me out! WooHoo!

I have only had a chance to thumb through, but AWESOME stuff inside!!

Will Work For Fondue...

Fondue last night was absolutely excellent! We really had a great time! We went to a place in Annapolis called The Melting Pot, and ended up ordering a 4 course meal for dinner. First we started with a Cheddar Cheese fondue pot, where we had an assortment of bread chunks, apples, and veggies to dip. Yumm! We got skewers in our silverwear, and that was how you dipped... Then came the caesar salads, LOVE a good one when it is done right, and this was no exception! Then the main course came.

We got the Pacific Rim assortment of meats and veggies. That was a plate full of raw pork, beef, chicken, shrimp, and duck. In the fondue pot was the Mojo sauce simmering, a cuban blend of orange, lime, cilantro, garlic, and broth. With the skewers you cooked the meats yourself. You just dropped in the veggies, and fished them out with a slotted spoon. I think my fave was the Mojo duck, it was so good! I was a little nervous to try duck, but it was very tasty.

Lastly came the dessert... the chocolate and caramel fondue. Oh My Gosh.... heavenly! We had the pot of chocolate going, and a plate full of fruits, brownie pieces, cheesecake, and marshmallows. Those brownie pieces were just to die for.

The pic below, was obviously snitched from the Melting Pot's website, but I did want to show you an example.

Nate and I had a very romantic time, we had a very private table. I wore my expensive Gap dress (YAY!) and Nate had on a Gauyabera shirt ( a traditional cuban dress shirt). We had pics taken!! Fabulous! Similar style to my sis Alicia's pics, so you'll see when I get home.

Tomorrow is the annual Chesapeake Bay Bridge Walk. I haven't done it in years, since High School I think (9- 10 yrs?) so that will be a blast. I will be going with my sister and my Bro-in law. Seth will go to church with Nana so she can show him off, and shelter him from too much sun, and Nate will have another day of the Internation Amphibion Days show.

Below are some more pics I snitched from a website, I wanted you to be able to get an idea of the walk.

Both bridges run from Annapolis to Kent Island, MD. The bridges span 5 miles and are between 400-500 feet in the air. Usually the side with people is East bound (2 lanes) , and the other side with cars is the west bound (3 lanes). They will open one lane on the westbound side for east bound drivers. Of course I will take my own pics to share with you all.

They have food vendors and latrines set up, water stations, and of course, VERY tight security, monitoring everything.

Allright friends, I am signing off tonight! I am not sure if I will get another post in till I get home, and get back to the regularly scheduled program on Tuesday....

Circle of Friends...

Hello Friends!!!

Conference went really well... well as really well as can be expected with a cranky toddler and nothing but business meetings, LOL! We had a good time holed up in our hotel room....

Anyways we had wireless internet, and I was actually able to check a couple things using my husband's palm pilot thing. That was interesting! I even have the pictures to prove it, LOL! We got Seth his first little car, and he has had that thing attatched to his hip ever since, also have some lovely pics of that!

We are now here in lovely MD, with many aventures planned! Fondue, frog shows, and bridge walks, Oh My!

Did you all catch LOST last night?!?!? WOWZERS! It is about time Ana Lucia got the ax! I was totally suprised that she and Sawyer had a tussel in the hay, so to speak, but started clapping when she got shot. I am BLOWN away that Michael seemingly has a different agenda, and am curious to what it is. i don't think Libby is gone... still too much possibilty and drama between her and Hurley.

OK, must run, but I wanted to check in with you all! As promised... here are some more details about the Circle of Friends kit, exclusive to A Cherry On Top, ALL proceeds going to Make A Wish Foundation. Here are some up close and personal previews.