See What Sue Saw

Child's Play

2012-01-30T22:02:00.004-06:00

Kids learn as they play, so for them, playing is their "job". Here's a photo of John and David hard at work.

Ready For School by Celine Designs (papers, brick wall - modified) and Albina Design (stacking cups); School Days Alpha by Designs by Sarah; CU items: puzzle template (modified) by Gunhild Storeide; bunny by leitis; bear by Pink Flowers; train extracted by me from stock photo; Fonts: Arial, Segoe Script

Sue

Taylor-Made Day

2012-01-26T17:14:00.007-06:00

One glorious day in July, 2004, Anna, Ben, Marie and our family of five made a trip to Taylor’s Falls. On the way there, we did an impromptu photo shoot by an old red caboose set amongst pine trees. We shot the ever-popular family picture along with many others. Some were quite silly --- surprise, surprise!

Once at the falls, I admired the scenery without getting too close to the edge, but I took photos of the others as they climbed around on the rocks. On the way home we spotted some sand sculptures, so we had another unplanned photo opportunity. What a perfect way to end the day --- for me, the photo nut, anyway!

Reflections of the Heart by Jen Reed: Collection Biggie, JIFF Plus Layout (butterfly); Paper Super Mini (background); template 122 by Lindsay Jane Designs

Sue

"POP!" Goes the Present

2012-01-25T22:29:00.005-06:00

John loved his first birthday party. What little boy wouldn't? Cake, presents, attention, playing outside --- he had a blast! When he first saw his birthday cake, he tried to pick off the M&M’s, but fortunately we were able to stop him in time. His favorite present was a "popper", a toy that pops up beads in a clear plastic bubble as one pushes it along the ground. He didn't even put his popper down for pictures! He's holding it in two of the three photos on this page.

Joni Gray’s January 2012 ABC-Album posting bonus kit (background paper and stitching modified); gift (re-colored) by Jen Reed (All I Want for Christmas Tree and Gift Embellishments); sparkler element (modified) by Rena Designs (New Year at DC collab); photo mask (modified) by CNord @ Scrap N’ Art; Fonts: Teen Bold, Desyrel, Gorilla Heavy

The kit I used for the page above is the one I received from Joni Gray for doing her January ABC-Album Challenge. The letter this month is P, so I made a layout of "The Pure Pleasure of Pudding".

You can receive this cute kit, too! Just create a layout whose title starts with the letter P, and follow the rules (found here) for posting and linking your page at Bunny Cates' forum. Have fun!

Sue

The Pure Pleasure of Pudding

2012-01-24T21:43:00.005-06:00

I love seeing my boys enjoy themselves. If they happen to be making a mess at the same time, that just gives me another photo opportunity! Here are a couple of examples.

Reflections of the Heart Collection Biggie by Jen Reed; Reflections of the Heart Jiff Plus (journal paper) by Jen Reed; Fonts: Pea Katie Jo, Quigley Wiggly; I submitted this layout to Joni Gray's January ABC-Album Challenge at Bunny Cates' forum.

Journaling:
Top - As they melt, frozen pudding pops work great as face paint, as John (4) and David (6) one day discovered. (1991)
Bottom - At a year old, Steven couldn't eat with a spoon very well, but he really enjoyed pudding, so I just took off his shirt and let him make a delicious mess. (1989)

Sue

Party for a One-Year-Old

2012-01-23T23:07:00.005-06:00

The third time's the charm, right? I've already made a couple of pages (here and here) with this photo, but I was never quite pleased with the end product nor with the photo editing. Here is another try.

Materials by Jen @ Chaos Lounge (May 2010 KimB DSO Color Challenge kit - background); happy-scrap (Tendresse – glitter); Le digiscrap de yaya (Tendresse pastel – window); Syrin (stitching); Three Paper Peonies (birthday word art); Sky’s the Limit Scraps (August 2010 KimB DSO Color Challenge kit - present); Fonts: PreludeFLF Medium, Times New Roman

Journaling: Mom had me all dressed up for my first birthday. I did NOT have a Mohawk; I had cute little curls on the top of my head. Mom even made an incredible cake for me!

I promise the next layout will be not be made using this picture!

Sue

Always a Marine

2012-01-13T18:12:00.004-06:00

When I first met my father-in-law, Lou Maravelas, he was over 60 years old, but he still had vivid memories from his time in the marines during WWII, 1941-1945. I plan to digiscrap a collection of his stories, and this will be the title page.

Unfortunately, the family cannot locate pictures from that era, so I will make do with older photos or materials off the internet. As I complete new pages, I'll share them with you. The stories are fascinating!

Military: Semper Fi Collection Mini by Jen Reed; Military: Semper Fi Paper Super Mini by Jen Reed; Military: Trinkets Embellishment Biggie by Jen Reed; old brass action by Atomic Cupcake; photo mask (modified) by Gunhild Storeide; Scraplifted from Scrap Simple Digital Layout Album Template Series 1 by Angie Briggs; Font: Square721 BT

Sue

We Three

2012-01-10T13:48:00.004-06:00

I love when we three sisters get together and talk heart to heart. In October, 2011, we shared memories of Bill, Nancy's husband, who had just passed away. It was a very healing time.

My sisters are very special people and I am blessed they are in my life.

Reflections of the Heart Biggie by Jen Reed; Reflections of the Heart Embellishment Mini – Flower Clusters (bow) by Jen Reed; Reflections of the Heart Paper Mini (background) by Jen Reed; Reflections of the Heart JIF Plus 12x12 Layout (flower overlay) by Jen Reed; Rust Action by Atomic Cupcake; Fonts: Freebooter Script, Monotype Corsiva Italic

Sue

A Bit More Christmas

2012-01-09T12:14:00.006-06:00

It's never too late for Christmas, is it? I had more fun photos to use from my Christmas in the hospital last month, so I turned my layout into two pages.

By the way, I am doing fine now, feeling good and gradually getting back into regular activities. Praise God for good health!

All I Want for Christmas Collection Biggie by Jen Reed; All I Want Tree and Gift Embellishments by Jen Reed; All I Want for Christmas Paper Mini by Jen Reed; template by Bunny Cates (modified to two pages); fonts: Arial Bold, Rockwell Bold

***********

Journaling: Christmas isn't very merry if you are in the hospital, so I was surprised when my family came into my hospital room bearing boxes and bags of gifts. It was Christmas Eve day, my 14th day in the hospital. What a special time! After they piled the presents on my bed, we read the Christmas story, and sang carols. Then came the unwrapping! I received another big gift later that night when I was released to go home.

Photo Notes:
Page 1: Harry, Kristine, John, Steven, David, Sue, Mom, Dad; Kristine and John asked Steven and David to be their groomsmen; This was a much more fun use for my hospital bed; Page 2: Dad tried to figure out how the gopher pillow worked while Mom looked on; Kristine and John; David was amused by the fireworks from Steven; Harry and Sue

***********

I'll post another page soon, but it WON'T be about Christmas this time! Ho, HO, HO!!!

Sue

Summer Love

2012-01-03T14:07:00.005-06:00

Here is a page of my niece and her new husband. Aren't they a cute couple?

Life in Blue and Pink, Collab by MaChabine Création'S and Le digiscrap de Sarayane

Sue

Christmas in the Hospital

2011-12-31T22:02:00.003-06:00

Christmas isn't very merry if you are in the hospital. On my 14th day there, on Christmas Eve day, 2011, I was surprised when my family came into my hospital room bearing boxes and bags of gifts. After they piled the presents on my bed, we read the Christmas story, and sang carols. Then came the unwrapping! It was a very special time. I received another big gift later that night when I was released to go home.

All I Want for Christmas Collection Biggie by Jen Reed; All I Want Tree and Gift Embellishments by Jen Reed; All I Want for Christmas Paper Mini by Jen Reed; template by Bunny Cates; fonts: Arial Bold, Rockwell Bold; I submitted this page to the December template challenge on Bunny Cates forum.

Photo Notes: 1) Harry, Kristine, John, Steven, David, Sue, Mom, Dad; 2) Kristine and John asked Steven and David to be their groomsmen; 3) This was a much more fun use for my hospital bed.

***************************

So that's where I was for half of December. It wasn't much fun, but I am thankful I am out of the hospital now and doing very well.

Sue

Our Boys

2011-12-29T20:35:00.006-06:00

Ya gotta luv 'em! I know I do!!

The Messenger Collection Biggie by Jen Reed, fonts: SHINJI BLUES, Bohemian typewriter; I submitted this page to Joni Gray's December ABC Album Challenge on Bunny Cates' forum.

Sue

Ho, Ho, HO!!

2011-12-26T22:49:00.008-06:00

When our family gathers for Christmas, we take group portraits. The poses are usually formal, but I confess I like the silly versions better.

All I Want for Christmas Collection Biggie by Jen Reed; font: Terminal
I submitted this layout to the December Surprise Challenge on Bunny Cates forum.

Top to Bottom, L to R: Jim, John, Dad, Harry, Steven, Mom, Kristine, Sarah, Sue, Liz, David, Ruth, Marie

Sue

Family Feast

2011-11-30T22:05:00.004-06:00

It was a time to get together and remember our many blessings. Nancy and her brood came to town for the holiday, making it that much more special.

The table stretched from wall to wall, big enough to seat twenty. The food was plentiful and delicious, flavored with lots of lively conversation.

However, the star of the day wasn't the turkey. It was three-month-old Rory, my parents' first great grandchild.

Nov 2011 Color Challenge kits by: Chaos Lounge (white paper, greenery); Carol aka monacomomma (orange dotted background); Kim B (green paper); stitches by Gunhild Storheide; AliSarah Designs (turkey from Thankful blog train); Joni Gray (pumpkin pie, re-colored, from Pumpkin Pie kit); Fonts: ZallmanCaps Thin, Times New Roman, Bookman Old Style Semi-Bold

Main photo, L to R: Mary, Russ, David, Billy, Doug, Liz E, Liz P, Harry, Mom, Dad, John, Kristine, Becca, Steven, Marie, Melissa, Ruth; Also present: Jim, Sue, Nancy, Rory; Middle lower photo: Nancy with grandson Rory

Sue

Nap Time

2011-11-20T15:45:00.006-06:00

With three boys less than three years apart, nap time was one of my favorite times when they were little. I could finally catch my breath and get something done!

Aren't these pictures sweet?

Butterfly Kisses by Jen Reed; Butterfly Kisses Paper Mini by Jen Reed; Font: Desryel
I submitted this layout to Joni Gray's November ABC Album Challenge at Bunny Cates forum.

Sue

Monkeying Around

2011-11-01T12:06:00.005-05:00

David and John loved climbing the plum tree in the yard outside our basement apartment, but Steven was left out since he wasn't big enough to climb up on his own. However, one fall day when the plums were over-ripe and dropping to the ground, all the boys had fun playing by the tree, squishing and throwing the purple fruit. Later, when I tried washing their clothes, I discovered plum juice is a wonderful, long-lasting dye. I never got those stains out.

Monkeying Around Blog Train materials: Deli Scraps by Min (monkeys); Mardesia Chauvin at Crafter’s Boutique (word art); Bon Scrapatit (rub-on orange dotted line); Brenda of Millstream Cottage (leaf); Mandy King (yellow paper); Aimee Harrison at Girlboheme Studios (red and brown cardstock papers); Bonnie Blou Designs (striped paper); font: Kristen ITC Semi-Expanded; Key of D Designs (stitching)

As you can see by the picture below, my boys still like climbing trees.

Sue

Modern Day Warrior

2011-10-30T21:53:00.004-05:00

I honor the many brave men and women of the armed forces who put themselves in harm's way for the sake of freedom. I am very proud that my nephew is one of them. He is currently in Afghanistan, and took the background photo I used in this layout.

Go Army Collection Mini by Jen Reed; Go Army Paper Mini by Jen Reed; Scrap Simple ripped cardboard template by Jen Reed; background photo taken by my nephew while he was in Afghanistan; main photo – stock; CU photo mask by Jerry Jones at Shadowhouse Creations; fonts: Eurostile Bold, Typenoksidi, Happy Daze

Sue

One Third of the World!

2011-10-27T11:31:00.003-05:00

I get a big kick out of keeping track of all the different countries from which I have received hits. Currently, that number is 69 of the approximately 203 countries in the world, which calculates to 34% or

one third of the countries in the WORLD!!!!

For a small scrapbooking blog with only about 12,000 total hits, that is pretty amazing to me.

Thank you for representing one of those countries. You have blessed me by stopping by.

Sue

Seeing Double Twice!

2011-10-21T13:23:00.007-05:00

Steven sat gazing at the baby in the mirror, rocking back and forth with a big grin on his face. It was so fun to watch!

Here Comes the Sun by Jen Reed; Template 126 by Michelle Filo for Pencil Lines; Photo effect by The CoffeeShop Blog; Font: Desyrel

This is one of my favorite photos, so it was one of the first that I scrapbooked. I wanted to do an updated version. Which page do you like better, the first one here or this one?

Sue

A Tribute to Bill

2011-10-08T22:50:00.004-05:00

I made this layout as a tribute to my brother-in-law, Bill, who passed away last month from brain cancer. He was a special person. I am glad he is in heaven with Jesus, free from pain, but we miss him here on earth.

October 2011 DSO template by Bunny Cates; Butterfly Kisses by Jen Reed; Butterfly Kisses Solid Papers Addon by Jen Reed; Fonts: Ellianarelle's Path, Eurostile Bold

Sue

Light of My Life

2011-09-25T16:05:00.005-05:00

Happy Birthday to the light of my life, my honey hubby!

Golden Vanity by Jen Reed; Scrap Simple Ripped Cardboard Pieces by Jen Reed; card sketch by Bunny Cates; Font: Times and Times Again

Sue

P.S. Golden Vanity, the kit I used for this card, is on sale for 50% off at Jen's store. This low price lasts only a few days, so go grab it now!

Just Beginning

2011-09-06T00:40:00.004-05:00

See the cool dude with the backpack? That's David on his first day of kindergarten. He was both excited and apprehensive about starting school.

By the time of the first open house, David was an old pro. He proudly showed us his locker, his work, and his classroom. Our little boy was growing up!

The Messenger by Jen Reed; Font: Desyrel

Sue

Kayak Krazy

2011-08-30T13:44:00.002-05:00

Harry and the boys discovered that backwards or forwards, "kayak" spells FUN!

Swims Like a Fish Biggie Collection by Jen Reed; ScrapSimple Embellishment Templates: Ripped Photo Frames – Light by Jen Reed; Font: Arial

Sue

A Mother's Love

2011-08-16T20:08:00.003-05:00

This picture of "motherly love" was so funny and cute I just had to make a layout of it!

Butterfly Kisses Collection Biggie by Jen Reed; Butterfly Kisses Solids Add-on Paper Mini by Jen Reed; Template by Penny's Miscellany; Font: Times New Roman

Sue

Life is a 3-Ring Circus

2011-08-02T20:50:00.003-05:00

When we spotted this unique feature, I just HAD to take some pictures. It was very difficult, but in the end, Harry became king of the playground when he tamed the ferocious lion (drinking fountain).

Come One, Come All Biggie by Jen Reed; Come One, Come All Paper Mini by Jen Reed; Come One, Come All Alpha Biggie by Jen Reed; columns and rings made using various GIMP functions and PSE actions; Font: Desyrel

Sue

Come One!! Come All!!

2011-08-01T18:07:00.005-05:00

Come and see the
MAGNIFICENT DAVID

Assisted by the
INCREDIBLE JOHN

Tame the
FEROCIOUS DADDY LION!

Come One Come All Biggie by Jen Reed; Come One Come Paper Mini by Jen Reed; Come One, Come All Alpha Biggie by Jen Reed; Fonts: Roman Antique, MS Sans Serif, Circus Medium

When our family attended Family Camp at Camp Shamineau in the summer of 1991, we heard about a family variety show, and decided to take part. We had fun making costumes and props out of various items like paper grocery bags, construction paper, masking tape, and a hula hoop for our big lion-taming act. Washable marker helped the Daddy Lion look really snarly, but Magnificent David and Incredible John were up to the task. The ferocious lion was tamed!

Sue

I am One

2011-07-31T01:57:00.005-05:00

I wasn't totally happy with the first page I made scrapping my first birthday, so here is another try.

Papers created by me using various CU materials; CU elements by Delicious Scraps (wire swirl), Rachael’s Scraps (bow); Twin Mom Scraps (leaf branch); Malily (flower); March 2010 Hawt Mama CT blog train template by Jenn (modified); Font: PreludeFLF Bold
I submitted this layout to the July DSO Color Challenge.

Journaling:
Whenever possible our birthday parties were held outside --- less mess, easy cleanup! The yard at our new house still had bare patches, but the yard next door was all dirt!

Mom got me all dressed up for my first birthday. A night in curlers meant I could have cute little curls on the top of my head. I did NOT have a Mohawk! Mom even made an incredible cake that was almost bigger than me!

Sue

1st Birthday

2011-07-24T23:27:00.005-05:00

Mom had me all dressed up for my first birthday. I did NOT have a Mohawk; I had cute little curls on the top of my head. Mom even made an incredible cake for me!

Eat Cake (Girl) Biggie by Jen Reed (most papers & elements; background paper blended); Eat Cake (Girl) Paper Mini Solid by Jen Reed (lavender paper); Eat Cake (Boy) Paper Mini Solid by Jen Reed (brown paper); Font: PreludeFLF Bold; Painted metal action by Atomic Cupcake; July Template Challenge Template by Bunny Cates; Created using GIMP (layout design) and PSE 6 (photo editing and actions)
I submitted this layout to the DSO July Template Challenge.

Sue

Just One of the Boys

2011-07-21T08:09:00.005-05:00

Whenever we went to a park, Harry always jumped into the fray, joining the boys as they played. He would push them on the swings and play around just like they did. It was amazing that a mature man could behave in such a juvenile fashion, but I liked seeing Harry acting as though he was … Just One of the Boys!

Dream Anew by Jen Reed; Font: Desyrel

I submitted this layout (here and here) to the DSO July ABC Album Challenge.

Sue

Washtub War

2011-07-16T20:40:00.004-05:00

When David and his cousin Billy got together, they always had a lot of fun. On a hot day in 1987, Nancy and I filled up an old washtub and let the boys splash around in it. Each seemed to think pouring water on the other was the most fun. They were so cute!

Swim Like a Fish by Jen Reed; Fonts: Boopee Bold, Veteran Typewriter

Journaling: It was all-out war! Who could get the other the most wet? Of course, it didn't really matter. They both had fun!

Sue

Many a Hero

2011-07-15T23:19:00.008-05:00

When Dad enlisted in July, 1948, some of the brave men and women who died during World War II were still being brought back home. Dad's honor guard squad from Marietta Air Force Base, Atlanta, Georgia, served at some of the funerals of these veterans, giving a 21-gun salute by each of the 7 honor guards shooting 3 times.

Officers often received greater honors. In the photo on the page below, twenty-one honor guards served and gave a true 21-gun salute during the interment of a lieutenant colonel. Dad recalled that on this somber occasion, as he stood at attention, a pretty girl walked right in front of him and winked!

Not all American soldiers who died on foreign soil during World War II were brought back home. Families could choose either to pay to bring their loved ones home or to have them laid to rest in the countries where they had fought and died. A few could not be identified, so these unknown soldiers were each given a number and generally buried abroad, one exception being the one selected for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

We honor all of these soldiers for their service to our nation and their sacrifice for freedom.

The Patriot by Jen Reed; arrow shape from Fresh Start by Jen Reed; official air force photos from my dad’s time in the service; flag photo by me; stock photo of Normandy American Cemetery 4; blending of photos done using textures from Lost and Taken and my own textures; Font: Century
I submitted page one and page two to the July DSO Surprise Challenge
.

Sue

Dad: Airman First Class

2011-07-09T17:15:00.010-05:00

Over the years, Dad has told bits and pieces about his time in the US Air Force. Using his stash of old photos and asking questions as I go along, I plan to make a series of pages about those days. Here is the first two-page layout.

The Patriot by Jen Reed; arrow shape from Jen Reed’s Fresh Start; Atomic Cupcake painted metal action; official seal from back of photo; Fonts: Eurostile Bold, Square721 BT
*** Selected as a DSO gallery standout by Bunny***

Sue

A Cake and a Clunk

2011-07-07T00:17:00.003-05:00

Late, late on the night before John left for Japan, we decided he really needed a birthday cake. Early the next day, the birthday boy flew off to Japan for a few weeks.

While he was in Japan, he went head-to-head (literally) with another soccer player as they both tried for the ball, and John ended up with stitches on his forehead. THREE DAYS LATER, one of his friends convinced John to send me an email about it. “By the way, Mom, …”

Is bashing your skull halfway around the world more fun than staying at home eating cake? I guess John thought it was.

Eat Cake by Jen Reed; cake template by me;
Fonts: Ben Krush, PreludeFLF Bold, Eurostile Bold, Ariel

Sue

Imagination

2011-07-02T12:23:00.002-05:00

I love the imagination that kids show! Here are some examples from when my son David was little.

Here Comes the Sun by Jen Reed; Fonts: MS PGothic, Pea Katie, Arial
I submitted this layout to the June DSO ABC Album Challenge.

Sue

Birthplace of a River

2011-06-22T00:23:00.005-05:00

Ever been to the headwaters of the Mississippi? That important river begins as a small creek flowing from Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota. There you can actually wade across the Mississippi in just a few short steps!

The sign at the site reads, "Here [at Lake Itasca], 1475 ft above the ocean, the mighty Mississippi begins to flow on its winding way 2552 miles to the Gulf of Mexico."

Mom and Dad took us to see the headwaters one day in 1965. It turned out Liz, center, had a raging fever when this photo was taken, so I don't think she appreciated the educational experience very much.

My Father’s Eyes by Jen Reed; DSO June Template Challenge template by Bunny; Golden Vintage photo action from The CoffeeShop Blog; Fonts: PreludeFLF Bold, Veteran Typewriter
I submitted this layout to the June DSO Template Challenge.
**chosen as a gallery standout by Bunny**

Sue

Happy Fathers' Day!

2011-06-19T17:39:00.002-05:00

My dad has played many roles through the years, but one thing has remained constant: his character. He is kind, loving, considerate, faithful, and godly. He has a great sense of humor and an even greater sense of integrity. He has always been there for me, ready to step in to help in any way. He is a very special person, and I am proud that he is my dad.

My Father’s Eyes by Jen Reed; Font: Sans, Segoe Script, Special Type Italic
** selected as a gallery standout by Joni **

Sue

Story of a Wedding

2011-06-18T13:47:00.007-05:00

What do you do with great Facebook photos you'd like to use in a layout, but are too small to be blown up to large photos? That was my problem with a number of the photos from my niece's wedding. I solved the problem by leaving the photos small and creating this collage of some my favorites.

Jun 2011 DSO Color Challenge kits by: dhariana (blue paper); Maureen as makeyesup (pink paper) Faith Amadio (flower); Tiggconn’s Scrap Designs (crinkled ribbon, little leaf); Phlox Dragon Designs (bigger leaves); LSW (bead scatter); enamel action by Atomic Cupcake; photos by my sister, Liz, my niece, Becca, and me; Template by me; Font: Old Script
I submitted this layout to the June DSO Color Challenge.
**selected as a gallery standout by Bunny**

The bride's father, my brother-in-law, was diagnosed with brain cancer a few months ago, so Liz and Doug moved their wedding date up a year so her dad, Bill, could be there. Bill cannot move on his left side, so he is in a wheelchair. Bill’s son pushed him as he "walked" Liz down the aisle.

Turn lemons into lemonade, or in this case, brain cancer into a wedding celebration!

Sue

I, Robot

2011-06-02T23:26:00.005-05:00

I really had a blast making a robot for the church float, an entry in the Fourth of July parade. The boys weren't much help except for lending their Duplos for the robot's features, but they liked the end result. They also enjoyed the parade, especially when they got candy and ice cream.

2010 October DSO Color Challenge kits by: Joni Gray (tag, blue); Tiggconn’s Scrap Designs (flat screw, tag - cut using Joni Gray's tag as a template); Dinphy (piece of hardware); Deatles (measuring device, 3D screw); Designs by Kristine (sunburst background paper); Designs by Moni (red background paper); Jan C (green background paper); Fonts: Eurostile, Impact Label; Fonts: Eurostile, Impact Label
I submitted this layout to the DSO June Surprise Challenge.
**selected as a GSO by Kamá**

Sue

Hungry!

2011-05-26T09:30:00.007-05:00

If you were 9 months old with nothing to eat while your cousin, just a year older, had a bowl of spaghetti, what would you do? Marie was somehow able to convey to Steven she was hungry even though she couldn’t talk. The sight of Steven feeding Marie was so funny that before Liz and I cleaned up the mess, I took this picture.

Did you notice that Steven was aiming at Marie's nose?!

Materials from DSO May 2009 Color Challenge Kits by: Kim's Scrappin' (red, dark blue dotted and pale green papers), Kim B Designs (robin’s egg blue paper with red dots), Bon Scrapatit Designs (cloud background paper) and Beckmoore Designs (flower); circle stitching (re-colored) from Uptown Girl by A Work in Progress; Inspired by a template by The 80's Me; Fonts: Shark Random Funnyness, Segoe Print Bold
I submitted this layout to the May DSO ABC Album Challenge.
**DSO Gallery Standout - selected by Bunny**

Dinphy chose this page for the June DSO Scraplift Challenge. I am honored! Click here to see pages made by others who used the above layout as their inspiration.

Sue

Enjoy the Little Things

2011-05-19T15:22:00.006-05:00

Your world can change faster than you think, so be sure to enjoy the little things.

Golden Vanity by Jen Reed; Atomic Cupcake painted metal action; Fonts: Huxtable, Fraulein, Gorilla Heavy, Verdana, Trebuchet MS Bold

I submitted this layout to the DSO May Scraplift Challenge.
**Selected as GSO by Kamá and pkdoll**

Quote:
Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things. ~Robert Brault

Journaling:
This turned out to be Bill's last trip to Minnesota. Eight days after this photo was taken, he was diagnosed with brain cancer.

Sue

100% Birdbrain

2011-04-29T16:12:00.003-05:00

When I investigated a tapping noise in the other room, I discovered a robin flying at the window, bashing itself, then flying away, only to repeat the process again and again. We tried to scare the robin off, but nothing worked. We think the robin was defending his territory against the image of himself he saw in the window. Shortly after the divebombing stopped, we found a nest nearby.

April 2011 DSO Challenge Template by Bunny Cates; Outdoor Treasures by Dinphy (wood paper modified); Fonts: Quadranta Bold; Stamp Act; Veteran Typewriter; Top Secret Bold
I submitted this layout to the DSO April Template Challenge.

Sue

Another Birthday Card

2011-04-27T14:16:00.003-05:00

Here's another birthday card I made using Jen Reed and Kim B's new kit, "Eat Cake".

Eat Cake by Jen Reed and Kim B

Sue

Birthday Blowout

2011-04-22T15:50:00.005-05:00

Marie huffed and she puffed, but she couldn't blow her candles out, so Steven tried to demonstrate the proper technique.

Eat Cake by Jen Reed and Kim B (including styles);
Fonts: Kristen ITC Semi-Expanded, Pauls Ransom Note Font

***DSO Gallery Standout (selected by Bunny)***

Sue

Someone Say Cake?

2011-04-17T22:52:00.012-05:00

After they decorated his birthday cake, John and his friends were ready to eat it all up, especially Jasher. Steven was ready to choke his brother. LOL

Eat Cake by Jen Reed and Kim B (including styles from kit on word art); Font for Okinawa: CorporateHQ
*** DSO Gallery Stand-Out (chosen by Bunny)***

To make this page, I used the boys' version of "Eat Cake", the fun new birthday collab kit by Jen Reed and Kim B. Here's a boys' birthday card I made with the same kit.

Eat Cake by Jen Reed and Kim B (including styles from kit on word art); card sketch by Bunny
I submitted this card to the April DSO Card Sketch Challenge.

"Eat Cake" comes in separate boys' and girls' versions, with or without the coordinating alphas, word art and layer styles. You can also buy both boys' and girls' versions in one HUGE kit. Click on the previews below to check it all out.

Be sure to visit Kim B's blog to pick up this versatile coordinating alpha.

See you soon with a more "girly" birthday layout.

Sue

Heavenly Masterpieces

2011-04-11T18:12:00.004-05:00

It is fascinating to see all the different masterpieces God can create using water vapor condensed around minute dust particles. Add sunlight and the effect can be spectacular! Of the hundreds of photos I have taken of clouds, here are some of my favorites.

Here Comes the Sun by Jen Reed; New Year’s Alpha 3 by Jen Reed; stock photo of Earth; Fonts: Freebooter Script; Arial; Byington; Byington Italic
I submitted this layout to Jen Reed's April 2011 Blog Challenge.

Sue

The Wonder of a Child

2011-04-06T22:10:00.012-05:00

I love the expression wonder on Mary's face as she met her newborn sister, Becca.

Birdies by Joni Gray Design; photo mask by KimB Designs (modified); scraplifted from “Tongue” by bluetansy; star shape from CU star by pillowgirl; Fonts: Gabrielle, Rough Typewriter Bold
I submitted this layout to the April DSO Scraplift Challenge.

I kept fussing with this layout because I thought perhaps the kit I used above was too light for the photos, making them stand out on the page too much. Here is my second version.

Wanted by Jen Reed and Kim B (hearts extracted from paper); photo mask by KimB Designs (modified); scraplifted from “Tongue” by bluetansy; star shape from CU star by pillowgirl; Fonts: Gabrielle, Rough Typewriter Bold

Which do you like better? Or doesn't it matter? I keep going between one and the other. I know, I know; I'm too picky!

Sue

The Christmas "Loot"

2011-04-05T19:09:00.003-05:00

Whenever our family came to this photo as we watched old slides together, we laughed at what Dad had written on the blackboard: THE LOOT!

Christmas First by Kim B; template from Templates 09-12 by Jen Reed; Fonts: PreludeFLF Bold, Eurostile Bold
I submitted this page to the DSO March Surprise Challenge.

Coming next, I have another memory page that also features three little ones. See you then!

Sue

More Snow?? ENOUGH!!

2011-04-03T18:20:00.009-05:00

On March 19th, melting snow gave us a tantalizing glimpse of coming spring. Four days later, on March 22nd, eight more inches of snow fell, making driving treacherous and closing the schools. The cars in the photo below were not going 55 miles per hour! On that same day, I spotted a three-foot drift. With that snowfall, 2011 became the fourth snowiest winter in this area's history. Who knows how much more snow will fall!

Winter Wishes by Jennifer Labre Designs; Word Art by CrazsquawCreations;
Fonts: Minya Nouvelle, Arial
I submitted "Impatiently Waiting for Spring" to the March DSO Word Art Challenge, and "ENOUGH!!" to the March DSO Ad Challenge.

I have a nostalgic Christmas layout coming soon. See you then!

Sue

A Fair Pirate and Ahoy, Ye Freebies!

2011-04-01T21:38:00.011-05:00

One of the most fun parts of the Minnesota State Fair was watching an actor play "Captain Jack Sparrow". I absolutely loved all the different facial expression he had when posing for photos!

Pirate Code by Jen Reed; Pirate Code Alpha by Jen Reed; Font: Arial
***DSO Gallery Standout (from Bunny)***

Journaling:
We found “Captain Jack Sparrow” at the Minnesota State Fair, right outside the Haunted House. Even though he wasn’t Johnny Depp, he was very fun to watch. With men, he crossed his arms and looked bold and brash; with children, he leaned back and stared wild-eyed; with women, he put his arms around them and gave a seductive leer. We spent time at the Haunted House, but did not spend money there since we never went in. It was more entertaining outside, anyway!

*********

Have you seen the latest blog train, "Pirates Not Allowed"? I decided this went perfectly with my photos of the fair pirate, so I did another page, even though I'd used these photos before. You can see my first layout here.

"Pirates Not Allowed" is a HUGE freebie kit made by 101 different designers using the same color palette. Don't miss out! You can start the train at Jen Reed's site by clicking on her preview below, or visit the Blog Train Blog for the whole list in order.

If you pick up this mini-kit, be sure to visit Jen's Facebook page to add an even bigger freebie to your pirate treasure. Click on the preview below. This is a DIRECT link; you don't need to "share" this on your page.

Last, but not least, you can find another treasure in Jen's store. This Pirate Code alpha is discounted to 99¢! Don't miss out on this steal!

You can earn another fabulous free kit, Fresh Blossom, by participating in Jen's April blog challenge. Click on the preview below to learn all about it.

Wow! So many freebies! These treasures aren't hidden, so dig them up today!

Sue

You Make Sunshine

2011-03-27T20:47:00.006-05:00

This page makes me smile!

Here Come the Sun by Jen Reed;
Fonts: Just One More Picture, Segoe Print Bold
***DSO Gallery Standout of the Week (chosen by Bunny)***
*** Scrap Girls layout of the week - feature in August 20th newsletter***

Sue

Confession of a Shutterbug

2011-03-26T22:51:00.008-05:00

We all had a blast when we visited Gooseberry Falls in 2009! To capture the memory, I took almost 300 photos, which my family thought that was way too many. On the other hand, I ended up with some fun shots. Here are some of my favorites. Don't squint to read the journaling; it is typed below the layouts.

Wanted by Jen Reed and Kim B; template from Templates 09-12 by Jen Reed; actions by Atomic Cupcake; Fonts: Century Gothic Bold, Veteran Typewriter, Orlando, HAPPY DAZE

***DSO Gallery Standout of the Week (chosen by Joni)***

Journaling:
Yes, I admit it; I take too many pictures. On this day at Gooseberry falls, I took close to 300 photos. We'd go broke without a digital camera! David got a little exasperated with all the photos I took, especially this series of him. You can almost see him thinking (above), "Another one, Mom? REALLY?" The photos of the kids (above) and of Kristine and John (left) turned out well, but in the photo of Harry and me (far left), Harry had two little sticks in his mouth. Why??

One of things to do at Gooseberry Falls is climb the rocks. They're easy to climb and the falls are not very high. It's perfect for some unique photos! It was fun to see David and Steven sitting on either side of the falls. (L) However, everyone was looking down on me, even Harry! (bottom R) The kids were silly as they posed at the top of falls. They tried to make the letters Y-M-C-A, but it was hard to see from down below.

*********

This layout was definitely a labor of love. With so many photos from which to choose, it was hard to pick the best ones, edit them, and crop them so they looked good on the pages. I really like the way it turned out, so I think it was worth it.

I used one of Jen Reed's new templates, flipping it to make the second page. Click on the preview below to purchase them at her store.

Coming up next is a really bright, fun page of my honey hubby! See you soon!

Sue

Enjoy the Little Things

2011-03-25T12:11:00.002-05:00

Big or small, I love my boys, but it's fun to remember them when they were little. This photo of them sitting on one chair makes me smile.

Here Comes the Sun by Jen Reed; Fonts: Calvin & Hobbs, Kristen ITC Semi-Expanded

I thought about scrapping the photo above for a long time, but didn't have the right kit. I knew I'd found a match when I saw the preview of "Here Comes the Sun", the latest kit by Jen Reed. The bright, cheerful colors remind me that spring is coming.

Jen's kit is at a reduced price through March 30th. Click on the preview below to check out this bit of sunshine at her store.

We received another ten inches of snow on Wednesday, but I know warmer days are ahead. I'll be back soon with a multi-photo layout of a sunny summer day.

Sue

A Family Tradition

2011-03-19T00:04:00.006-05:00

A visit to the North Shore wouldn't seem complete without a trip to Gooseberry Falls. Ths boys just love climbing on the rocks above and below the Lower Falls, while I like hiking the trails and taking pictures. My sisters and I visited the falls with my parents, and now we've brought our kids there, too. It's now become a family tradition.

Golden Vanity by Jen Reed; March 2011 DSO Template Challenge template by Bunny Cates Designs; top right photo by Chuck Kochmann, posted on Wikipedia; Fonts: Veteran Typewriter, Copperplate Gothic Light, Journal;
I submitted this layout to the March DSO Template Challenge.

To: Grandpa and Grandma
From: Steven, Marie, John, Sarah, David & Ruth
We had fun climbing around Gooseberry Falls today. Our moms said you took them here when they were young. I guess it’s a family tradition.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

To make this layout, I used Golden Vanity by Jen Reed. This kit contains both gorgeous papers and unique elements. I've already used it for a couple other layouts: North Shore Memories and Wonder of Fall. It also goes great with vintage photos. Golden Vanity is discounted 20% through this weekend; click on the image below to visit Jen's store.

Sue

Photo Op Stop

2011-03-15T22:37:00.006-05:00

Harry was very patient with me on the day we visited the Duluth Rose Garden last summer, but at the end he wanted to STOP the photo op!

Wanted by Jen Reed and KimB Designs; template from Templates 05-08 by Jen Reed (modified); rust action by Atomic Cupcake; Fonts: Top Secret Bold, Love Ya Like A Sister, Scriptina

Journaling:
While staying at Liz and Jim's cabin, Harry and I visited the Duluth Rose Garden. I found lots of sights to photograph, including this statue of Leif Erickson. Harry was very patient, waiting while I took pictures and posing when I asked. He sat on this rock while I took over 100 photos, trying to catch the perfect splash. We even spotted a bench made entirely out of old hockey sticks! Only in Minnesota ...

After nearly three hours at the Rose Garden, Harry was more than ready to go. I teased him by taking one last shot. He was not amused. Poor Harry! He had to put up with a lot. We headed back to the cabin, where I took picture after picture of the waves rolling in. The wind on my face, the sun at my back, the tang of the breeze, the crash of the waves and the beauty of the lake reminded me of the Lord, who created them all.

To make this layout, I turned one of Jen Reed's new Templates 05-08 into a two-page layout. I also used her collab kit with Kim B, "Wanted - Hugs and Kisses". Click here to visit her store.

Sue

First Christmas

2011-03-14T16:19:00.006-05:00

Weren't my boys cute when they were little? Of course, I'm their mom, so I have to think that way!

Template 05-08 by Jen Reed; Le Jardin de Noël by Imagine by Fran; Princess Alpha by Digital Art by Steph; Fonts: Tahoma, Tahoma Bold

To make this page, I used one of Jen Reed's new templates. Click on the previews below to check them out at her store. You can also look at my last post for another layout using one of these templates.

See you soon with another two-pager!

Sue

Wildflowers and My First Freebie!

2011-03-10T15:27:00.013-06:00

Today you get a freebie from ME!!! I’m so excited! I’ve never given away a freebie before. First, I’ll show you the layout that inspired it.

These are pictures of a gorgeous field of wildflowers Harry and I discovered as we were driving home from our vacation last summer. After passing miles and miles of forest, it was amazing to see this rainbow of colors in an area larger than five football fields!

Genuine by Jen Reed; template from Templates 05-08 by Jen Reed; Vivid Pop photo action by CoffeeShop; Fonts: Vivaldi Italic Condensed, Segoe Print

To make this layout, I used “Genuine”, a March Facebook freebie kit from Jen Reed. Jen really liked the ribbon-linked journaling tags you see on the page above, so she’s letting me offer them as a freebie! There are both shadowed and unshadowed versions included in the file.

Click here or on the preview below to download. I would love to receive a comment from you, too!

**Download link has expired**

Don't forget to pick up “Genuine”, too! It’s free during the month of March. Click on the kit preview below to learn how to download it from Jen’s Facebook page.

Jen's putting a new set of templates in her store tomorrow; I used one of them for the first page of this layout. I’ll be back soon with a cute Christmas layout using another of her new templates. See you then!

Sue

A Genuine Freebie!!

2011-03-09T13:27:00.006-06:00

I totally forgot to mention another March freebie offered by Jen Reed. Yes, that's right, it's another genuine freebie!

What the kit's name, you ask? It's "Genuine", of course! I used it in my last post, "Easter Antics". Click here or on the image below to learn more about how you can grab this great kit!

Jen's offering some new goodies in her store on Friday, so I'll have more layouts for you soon!

Sue

Easter Antics

2011-03-04T20:12:00.004-06:00

I think photo is really fun! This was taken of the six cousins just after the annual Easter egg hunt. Notice the baskets? They collected both regular and chocolate eggs, then posed sweetly for the camera.

Genuine by Jen Reed; CoffeeShop vivid photo action;
fonts: Segoe Print, Shark Random Funnyness

Sue

Brothers and Friends

2011-03-03T11:28:00.008-06:00

On David's first day of kindergarten, naturally I took photos of him to capture the memorable occasion. Since I already had my camera out, it was easy to snap this cute photo of John and Steven sharing Harry's sweatshirt as we waited for the kindergarten bus on that chilly fall morning.

Serenity by Jen Reed, Fonts: Blue Highway, Boopee Bold, Adler
I submitted this layout to the March DSO ABC-album Challenge.

You can earn this lovely mini-kit FREE by completing Jen Reed's March blog template challenge. You also get a totally free template to download right away. Check out the freebie previews on my previous post or go right to Jen's blog site.

Sue

March DSO Member of the Month

2011-03-02T23:14:00.010-06:00

Guess who is the March DSO Member of the Month? Me! I am honored. I try to write positive comments for other members, and they noticed.

Digi-Scrap Obsession (DSO) is a great forum. The members are very encouraging, and gallery layouts inspiring. The challenges are fun, plus there are lots of wonderful freebies as posting bonuses. Why not give it a try? Just click here to check it out.

Sue

P.S. One of my favorite designers, Joni Gray of Digi-scrap Freebies, just added the following comment: "You so deserve [being named Member of the Month], and not only for leaving your positive comments but also for your awesome layouts." {{Blushing}} Isn't she sweet? But you already knew about my fabulous work, right? LOL

Baseball and a Freebie Alert!

2011-03-02T13:32:00.008-06:00

One warm summer evening during the Twins' first season at Target Field, we took my parents to a game. The view was gorgeous: lush green field in the foreground, Minneapolis skyline in the background. Even though Detroit Tigers beat the Twins 7-5, it was a delightful experience.

Serenity by Jen Reed; New Year’s Alpha 3 by Jen Reed; March 2011 Blog Challenge Template by Jen Reed; Vivid Pop 2 photo action by CoffeeShop; baseball and glove extracted by me from stock photo; Fonts: Verdana Bold, Times and Times again, Catriel

Do you like the template and kit I used for this page? They are both FREE during the month of March. Just hop on over to Jen Reed's blog and pick up her March blog challenge template. Then, make a page using that template, post a link on her blog and she will give you her mini-kit, Serenity as a prize. I love the combination of blues and green.

Just click here or on the images below to get started!

Sue

Snowscape

2011-03-01T16:51:00.003-06:00

What is a snowstorm but another opportunity to take pictures? The top photo I took out our living room window as the snow was falling in huge fluffy flakes.

The day after the storm, everything was coated with a layer of crystalline white. Before the sun could melt all that loveliness, I hurried out with my camera to capture a few more memories.

Paper and snowflakes made by me using CU textures and stock photos; plastic action by Atomic Cupcake; Fonts: Honey Script Semi-Bold, Arial Bold;
I submitted this layout to the February Font Challenge.

Journaling:
Yesterday huge snowflakes fell from the sky, accumulating to a February record-breaking twelve-inch snowfall. Today the same view was transformed into a sparkling winter snowscape. Just think, we only need another two feet of snow to set the all-time record!
(February 22, 2011)

Sue

Superior Splendor

2011-03-01T16:40:00.005-06:00

These are some of the spectacular sights from our hike along the shore of Lake Superior by Gooseberry Falls last summer. The color at the edge of the shore was amazing! I think there is a logical explanation for the orange color (iron in the rocks?), but the result is breath-taking. I snapped photo after photo trying to capture the incredible view.

Thank you, Lord, for all the beauty you create!

Outdoor Treasures by Dinphy; Fonts: Amienne Bold, Minya Nouvelle Bold Italic; I submitted this layout to the February DSO Frame-It Challenge.

Sue

E is for Easter

2011-02-22T12:11:00.007-06:00

This is one of my favorite photos of my sons when they were little. On Easter morning in 1989, I wanted a photo of the boys with the tulips behind them, but there was dew on the grass, so I had them sit on a blanket. I think they look so cute in this photo I want to give them a big hug. I still hug my boys, but they’re much bigger now.

2010 March DSO Color Challenge kits by Dinphy – Spring is Coming (papers, tulips, ribbon, scalloped paper, scalloped frames); Bubbles Bits (green frame); Designs by Hutchie (button); PSE scalloped edge action on title; Fonts: Zallman Caps Thin, Old Script, Times New Roman, Arial
I submitted this layout to the February DSO ABC-Album Challenge.
**DSO gallery standout (chosen by Joni)**

Sue

The Best State Fair in Our State

2011-02-20T02:54:00.006-06:00

A visit to the Minnesota State Fair is a fall tradition in our family. I remember going to the fair when I was quite young. We would make sure to go on the rides, look at the butter sculptures of the dairy princesses, have malts at the dairy building, and see the fish and animals at the DNR building.

This past year, Harry and I viewed the crop art, watched our niece march in the parade, admired the crafts in the Creative Arts building, were amazed at the giant vegetables, listened to hardanger fiddlers, and ate all kinds of different foods.

We're proud of our fair. In a state of 5.3 million people, the attendance is about 1.8 million over the 12 days of the fair, giving us the largest average daily attendance of any state fair in the country.

Dream Anew by Jen Reed; template from Templates 1-4 by Jen Reed; Fonts: Times and Times again, Love Ya Like A Sister, Miserably Lose, Typenoksidi, Top Secret Bold, Pea Katie Jo, Ariel

Photos from top: gopher fair mascot; salt-water taffy booth; Harry at the fair entrance; sky ride; clown on stilts in parade; Space Tower; Mad Hatter made entirely of seeds (Agriculture-Horticulture); ten-inch doll with miniature pastries (Creative Activities); Harry and moose (Fine Arts); foot-long hot dog booth

Sue

Grandma's Hug

2011-02-13T13:08:00.005-06:00

I'm glad I had a camera to capture this moment between Grandma and two-year-old Steven. “You can't wrap love in a box, but you can wrap a person in a hug.”

Wanted by Jen Reed and KimB; Scraplifted from freebie template by Breanne Aullman, aka BTA Designs; Font: Love Ya Like A Sister

Sue

An Engaging Couple

2011-02-11T01:10:00.004-06:00

Harry and I had fun with this photo shoot, done shortly after we got engaged. We didn't end up with many formal poses, but that was fine with me. I like the "mushy" pictures better anyway.

Wanted: Hugs and Kisses, Jen Reed’s part of collab with Kim B;
Fonts: Rough Typewriter Bold, Pea Katie Jo
*** DSO gallery standout (chosen by Bunny)***

To make this layout, I used the new collab kit, "Wanted: Hugs and Kisses", by Jen Reed and Kim B. This huge kit contains 28 papers and 76 elements in gorgeous shades of blue, green and brown. With so many papers and elements from which to choose, there are lots of possibilities for all kinds of different layouts.

Click on the preview below to see visit Jen's store. "Wanted is at a reduced price for a short time, so hurry over!

Sue

On Cloud Nine

2011-02-07T23:05:00.004-06:00

Whenever their guests tapped their glasses at Russ and Mary's wedding reception, the two of them happily obliged the group by kissing.

:Wub: You by Jen Yurko; Fonts: Zitti, Pea Katie

Sue

The Eyes Have It

2011-02-06T12:06:00.003-06:00

These are photos of my boys with unusual eye wear. John developed a whole costume based on a pair of "alien" glasses, while we put a pair of "Joe Cool" shades on David. In both cases, we all laughed, and the boys had fun.

The eyes have it. Yes, it's fun to look strange.

Dream Anew by Jen Reed; Font: Veteran Typewriter; Inspiration: Speed Scrap 2/5/2011 by Jen Yurko

Sue

Love and My Heart's Dream

2011-02-03T14:27:00.011-06:00

Have you taken a ride on the latest blog train? I caught "My Heart's Dream" to make this layout. I like the non-traditional colors for Valentines' Day or that special picture of your sweetheart.

My Heart’s Dream by Jen Reed; Bruissements d'ailleurs mots Betty photo mask; border line created with photo mask by Gunhild; heart shape by me; Fonts: Chopin Script, Veteran Typewriter

This page was made from Jen Reed's mini-kit, but there are around a hundred designers involved in giving away pieces of My Heart's Dream, a huge color-coordinated freebie kit.

I have shown previews below from Jen Reed and Delicious Scraps, another one of my favorite designers. Click on the images below to visit each designer's blog to pick up her mini, or click here to visit the main blog train blog for the whole list of participating designers.

Toot, toot! Comin' through!

Sue

Tis the Season to Be Jolly

2011-01-31T14:53:00.003-06:00

There was a lot of laughter when our family got together at Christmastime in 2009. I don't remember what was so funny, but something Dad said started all of us laughing so hard that it was hard to stop.

Mon noel à moi by Thaliris (papers modified); Fonts: Holiday Home, Ariel, Segoe Script Bold; created using GIMP and PSE 6

I like pictures of people laughing because they make me smile. Did this make you smile, too?

Sue

A New Year Together

2011-01-29T23:44:00.005-06:00

I'm so thankful for my wonderful parents. Their steadfast love for each other was the backbone of our family life as I was growing up. The older I get, the more I appreciate these two special people.

2011 frame from Outdoor Treasures by Dinphy; A Piece of My Life Add-on by Fanette Design; border design adapted from Pretty by Manue; Fonts: Gabrielle, Times and Times again
I submitted this layout to the January DSO Frame Challenge.
***DSO gallery standout (chosen by Dinphy)***

Sue

Adorable

2011-01-29T23:33:00.003-06:00

Liz was not standing on her own, so Mom propped her up next to the couch for this cute picture. Wasn't she adorable?

Adorable Mini-Kit by Serene by RW; Font: Monotype Corsiva Italic
I submitted this layout to the January 16-31 IL Mini Madness Challenge.

Sue

Laugh: A Smile that Bursts

2011-01-27T23:07:00.009-06:00

Steven was delighted with his new jack-in-the-box. He couldn't crank it himself, so Harry did it for him. Each time the little man popped up, Steven laughed and laughed, bouncing up and down in Harry's arms. This picture of the two of them always makes me smile.

Posh, Posh background paper by Jen Yurko; Soleil givré photo mask (modified) by Imagine by Fran; word art by Elegant Word Art; layout idea from IL Jan 2011 Scrapping U-Turn Challenge by Maya; photo edited using PSE and CoffeeShop actions; Font: Rockwell
As always, I used PSE for photo editing and GIMP, the marvelous free layer program, for layout design.
I submitted this layout to the IL Jan 2011 Scrapping U-Turn Challenge.
***DSO gallery standout (chosen by Bunny)***

Sue

Airheads

2011-01-25T12:19:00.011-06:00

One way I try to get my creative juices flowing is by doing challenges at digital scrapbooking forums. I usually end up with layouts I would NEVER have made on my own. This is especially true of the page I am about to show you.

First, though, here is my inspiration piece, "Monsieur II" by Blanca Gomez. You can find it here posted at Poster Caberet, a site that sells posters from various artists.

As I looked at Gomez' poster, I thought, "Hmmmm... five balloons, five people in our family... Maybe I can use that idea!" Thus, "Airheads" was born. These are silly pictures from this past Christmas I decided to put in this unique layout.

Background paper and alpha from January Weekly Download by IL Team; CU cloud overlay by Delicious Scraps; inspiration from Monsieur II by Blanca Gomez; stock photo of hand; acrylic action by Atomic Cupcake; Font: Ellianarelle's Path; I submitted this layout to the IL January Inspiration Challenge.
***DSO Gallery Standout (chosen by Bunny)***

Journaling: For Christmas, 2010, I gave Harry and the boys cold weather gear for their foreheads and necks. I should have known better.

What do you think? Different, huh?

Sue

Bath Time

2011-01-21T12:42:00.007-06:00

Mom always said I was a happy baby. Here is the full photo I used to make the avatar in the last post.

January 2011 DSO Color Challenge Kit by Joni Gray Digiscrap Freebies; stitchin by Gunhild; Fonts: Stamp Act, Veteran Typewriter; Design scraplifted from “Thankful” by mrsburgess
I submitted this layout to the January DSO Color Challenge.
***DSO Gallery Standout (chosen by Joni and Dinphy)***

Sue

A New Avatar

2011-01-20T20:20:00.008-06:00

According to dictionary.com, an avatar is "a graphical image that represents a person, as on the Internet".

Here is the new avatar I just made. I confess I am a little older now than I was when this picture was taken.Sue

Priceless

2011-01-20T16:21:00.011-06:00

A day with glorious weather, beautiful scenery, and my wonderful husband . . . . . . Priceless

Dream Anew by Jen Reed (papers, elements, alpha); Font: Roman Antique, Porcelain; frame cluster inspired by 5-photo frame from Outdoor Treasures by Dinphy
***DSO Gallery Standout (chosen by Bunny)***

Sue

More Craziness

2011-01-11T18:20:00.003-06:00

Yes, I know, I just did a layout very similar to this one. I submitted that earlier page to a DSO challenge.

I wanted to turn in the same page for a challenge for Inspiration Lane (IL), too, so I used a kit from IL in order to get more "points". I think the redo has a totally different feel. What do you think? Which do you like better?

IL December 2010 Weekly Download Kit (frame modified) by IL Team Members; Fonts: Monotype Corsiva Italic, Arial, Engravers MT Bold Expanded, Baveuse, Quadranta Bold, Bosshole, Calvin and Hobbes, Earwig Factory, GiovanniITCTT, Gorilla Heavy, Kristen ITC Semi-Expanded; inspired by ad selected by Jen Reed
I submitted this layout to the IL January Techniques and Trends Challenge.

Sue

Christmas Craziness

2011-01-10T20:31:00.003-06:00

At Christmastime, our family often plays a game with inexpensive, wrapped gag gifts. At the end of the game, each person opens their presents, and we all laugh at the odd combinations. Here is a list from this year: David, tiny purse; Dad, huge sunglasses; Mom, stuffed caterpillar; Marie, huge foam hand; John, clown nose and hat, posing with Dad's sunglasses; Russ, dancing marshmallow man; Bill, tiara.

DSO December 2010 ABC-Album Challenge Kit and Christmas Sampler, Joni Gray Digiscrap Freebies (frame modified; plastic hexagonal frames made using Atomic Cupcake action); Fonts: Monotype Corsiva Italic, Minya Nouvelle Bold, Engravers MT Bold Expanded, Baveuse, Quadranta Bold, Bosshole, Calvin and Hobbes, Earwig Factory, GiovanniITCTT, Gorilla Heavy, Kristen ITC Semi-Expanded; inspired by ad selected by Jen Reed
I submitted this layout to the DSO January Ad Challenge.

Sue

D is for Dirty

2011-01-08T01:12:00.007-06:00

Even though David and John were not perfectly groomed, these are some of my favorite photos of them when they were little.

Inspiration Lane September 2010 Weekly Download Kit by IL Team Members (some elements modified); Template 3 by Free Digital Templates by Lori (modified); Font: Pea Yummy Breakfast
I submitted this layout to the DSO January ABC Challenge and the IL January Font Challenge.

Sue

The Big Snow

2011-01-07T13:11:00.002-06:00

This past December was the snowiest on record in this area. One of the December snowstorms was especially memorable, and I shared a few photos from it on an earlier post. I decided to make a layout of that day.

On the day we shoveled out from the storm, there were wind chills of -20 to -30 degrees below zero, and Harry's tears actually froze. Isn't that amazing?

Winter Chill Mini Kit by Jeni Cantrill Designs;
Template 1-1-2011 by Bunny Cates Designs;
Font: Segoe Script Bold

I submitted this layout to the DSO template challenge
and the IL Mini Madness Challenge.

Sue

Coffee Break

2011-01-03T07:02:00.008-06:00

Harry's mom loved coffee. I can still picture Yaya like this, chatting over a cup of coffee. This was taken a few years before her death in April, 1998, at the age of 80.

Grandma’s Quilt by Jen Reed (ribbon extracted from tag);
Font: Segoe Script; CU circular mat template by LauraSkathi

The kit I used for this layout is Jen Reed's contribution to the big January blog train, "Grandma's Quilt". Snag Jen's part from her blog here, then check out some other designers' work. You can find the whole list here at the the Blog Train Blog.

Sue

Memories of Mom

2011-01-02T18:56:00.012-06:00

My parents are wonderful! I don't think I can ever tell them too many times how much I appreciate them.

This past year my sisters and I tried to express our feelings for our parents in a tangible form by making them memory books, collections of stories and pictures that especially reminded us of each of them. All the kids, spouses and grandkids were invited to add their parts as we honored Mom and Dad. We gave Dad his book in April, and Mom her book in November.

As we each took a turn reading our portion of Mom's memory book to her, I took the photos below. I love the different expressions on her face.

Dream Anew by Jen Reed;
Font: Segoe Script; Scraplifted from “Life” by slprunning
Chosen as a DSO gallery stand-out by Lulutoo

Sue

P.S. Here are previews from the kit I used, "Dream Anew" by Jen Reed. Click on the previews below to visit her store at ScrapDish.

Naturally Sisters

2010-12-17T23:46:00.005-06:00

My sisters and I spent a glorious day in June at the Arboretum. Here are some of the photos from that day.

Spring Alpha by Delicious Scraps;
stamp frame (modified) by Gunhild; various CU textures

Sue

Snowy Giants and a Giant Snow

2010-12-13T07:39:00.006-06:00

Here is a wintry layout made from last year's photos, perfect for this time of year (in the northern hemisphere, anyway).

DSO December 2010 Color Challenge kit by Joni Gray (glitter overlay created from glitter in kit); snowy alpha by Scrappin Cop; Font: Segoe Script
I submitted this layout to the DSO December Color Challenge.

In my last post, I talked about the big blizzard that hit our area. It ended up as the fifth biggest snow storm of all time based on the official record at the airport of 17+ inches of snow.

We only had about 14 inches here, but the snow drifted to 3-4 feet in some places. One of those big drifts was at the bottom of our driveway.

Our very kind neighbor saved us hours of shoveling by bringing over his huge snow blower to clear the driveway. Here are some photos.

With temperatures around 0 degrees F and strong winds, the wind chill was -20 to -30 degrees on the day after the storm. Understandably, Harry didn't want to pose too long with the yardstick.

Keep warm!

Sue

Warm Memories

2010-12-11T17:05:00.005-06:00

I am looking out at the biggest blizzard in this area since 1991. Brrrrrr! The snow is 20+ inches (51 cm) in some places and the winds are over 30 mph (54 km per hour). The international airport is closed and the plows were pulled off the city streets in Hennepin County – Minneapolis and suburbs. I can’t remember the last time that happened. It was probably in the 1991 Halloween snow storm. Even the University of Minnesota is closed and it NEVER closes!

This photo from my Dad's 80th birthday party last spring reminds me that snow and cold don't last forever.

Grosgrain Girl by mel_h designs and Scrappyweiss Designs; stitching (re-colored) from Make Believe by Scrappyweiss Designs; Font: AB Nirvana*
I submitted this layout to the December DSO Font Challenge

Sue

Happy 80th Birthday, Dad!

2010-12-10T16:44:00.007-06:00

My dad turned 80 years old this year, so we threw a big party to honor him. All the kids and most of the grandkids came. Dad almost set the smoke detectors off when he blew out his 80 candles!

My dad is a kind, caring, considerate, fun-loving, generous and godly man. I'm so blessed that he is my dad!

Grosgrain Girl by mel_h designs and Scrappyweiss Designs; balloons by Kristin Aagard Designs; birthday cake and candles by Gunhild; word art (re-colored) by Elegant Word Art; December 2010 Jelly of the Month Freebie Alpha by Libby Pritchett Designs; curled ribbons by Scrappin Cop; Happy Birthday To Me - CU party hat by Malily; star and diamond shapes by me

I submitted this layout to the December IL Playing with Numbers Challenge. The requirements were to use 4 pictures plus a minimum of 6 papers, 1 ric rac, 1 alpha, 2 shapes and 6 elements. I planned to scrapbook these photos anyway, but this challenge helped me make the page more interesting as I searched for ways to fulfill the guidelines.

Sue

The Best Time of the Year

2010-12-08T11:12:00.002-06:00

Why is Christmas the best time of the year? There are decorations everywhere, parties galore, and special gatherings of family and friends, but these things aren’t what make Christmas so special.

Christmas is the time we remember the birth of Jesus Christ, God made man. This tiny baby grew to adulthood in a small country, never becoming rich and powerful, never traveling far from home, yet he changed the world by dying on the cross for the sins of all.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16 (KJ)

In the midst of the hustle and bustle, let us remember that Jesus is the reason for the season!

Christmas First by KimB Designs
Font: Matilde, Blue Highway Bold, Gabrielle
I submitted this layout to the DSO December Quote Challenge
and the IL Fontastic Fun Challenge.

Sue

Photo Facelift

2010-12-03T13:48:00.004-06:00

Don't you hate it when a special photo turns out too dark or too light or off-color? It doesn't happen as much with digital photography these days, but way back in the olden days before there were digital cameras, there were more problems.

Now, using photo editing programs or layering programs, you can fix those old photos and make them look MUCH better. I edit almost all the photos I use in my layouts these days, especially to fix the lighting.

Here is an old photo of my middle son, John, at his first Christmas. The original photo turned out very dark and muddy, but I improved it using a free program GIMP. Doesn't it look better?

This particular photo change I submitted to the DSO December Photography Challenge. It's fun to make such a major improvement on an important photo like this one. Wasn't John adorable? I just want to pinch his little cheek!

Sue, John's mom (Can you tell?)

Orange Sentinels

2010-12-01T01:34:00.003-06:00

While vacationing on the North Shore, Harry and I spotted these lichen-covered fence posts lining a drop-off by Lake Superior. I thought they looked like orange soldiers guarding the shoreline. (Gooseberry State Park, July 2010)

Outdoor Treasures by Dinphy
Fonts: Square 721 BT, Arial Bold
I submitted this layout to the November Frame-It Challenge.

What unique sights will you see today?

Sue

Thankful for Family

2010-11-29T23:03:00.007-06:00

Looking at these photos reminded me of how thankful I am for my husband and my three sons. They are all so special!

Fresh Start by Jen Reed; Word Art by Binty; Font: Rockwell Bold
I submitted this layout to the November DSO Ad Challenge
and the November IL Word Art Challenge.

a. MN, 1988; b. Honolulu, HI, 1992; c. Tokyo, 1994; d. Re-entry Camp, IA, 1996; e. Crystal, MN, 1999; f. Hirakata EFC, Osaka, 2000; g. Osaka Castle, 2000; h. Nijo Castle, Kyoto, 2001; i. Hedo Point, Okinawa, 2002; j. Catigny Park, IL

Sue

Concentrate!

2010-11-20T00:40:00.005-06:00

These are some of my favorite photos of the boys when they were little. I was amazed by the level of concentration they showed when they were toddlers.

DSO November 2010 Color Challenge kits by: Joni Gray Digiscraps (paper, staple); KimB Designs (paper, clock); Chaos Lounge (paper); Freesia Scraps (paper); Sky’s the Limit Scraps (thistle pod, seed pod); Deatles (acorn); file tab by me; Inspiration from Anthropologie web page; Fonts: Monospace Bold, Rockwell, Teen, Times and Times again, Love Ya Like A Sister, Huxtable, Tandelle, Pea Katie, Myriad Web Pro Bold. Mufferaw, Ligurino Condensed
I submitted this layout to the November DSO Color Challenge and the November IL Inspiration Challenge.

David (1986) – One-year-old David was fascinated by the daisies along the path.
John (1989) – Two-year-old John carefully caught soap bubbles as they floated by.
Steven (1989) - One-year-old Steven sat in a cardboard box, totally focused on his pop beads.

Sue

Some Things Never Change

2010-11-18T14:30:00.004-06:00

Some things never change, and these pictures prove it. Just like little boys, big boys like to play with little cars. Mine like to all squeeze into the smallest car they can find.

Let It Rock by A Work in Progress and
Sweet Blossom Designs (clip modified)
Fonts: Pea Katie, Stamp Act Jumbled, Arial

Sue

B is for Boy

2010-11-14T23:34:00.007-06:00

Here are some fun photos of my boys over the past ten years.

Fresh Start by Jen Reed
B template by Scrap'Anges (modified)
Font: Holmes 207, Arial
I submitted this layout to the DSO November ABC Album Challenge
and the IL November Fontastic Fun Challenge.

Sue

North Shore Memories

2010-11-12T23:18:00.004-06:00

It was a special time when my sisters and I went up to the North Shore together. (2008)

Golden Vanity by Jen Reed
November Blog Challenge Template by Jen Reed
Font: Monotype Corsiva Italic

Sue

Not the Brady Bunch

2010-11-11T12:25:00.007-06:00

My boys complain when I want to take a good family photo. Now they can see it's hereditary.

This was our family in 1970. When I finished this layout, I realized it kind of looked like the photos at the start of the Brady Bunch. It's even from the right time period. What do you think?

Jen Reed’s part of the IL November 2010 Weekly Download Kit
Fonts: Arial, Arial Heavy
Scraplifted from Toadally Cute by Jennifer Schmitt

To make this page, I used Jen Reed's part of the Inspiration Lane 2010 Weekly Download Kit. This is a HUGE kit the you can download in weekly portions for free during the month of November if you are a member of the IL forum. Check out the whole kit here or click on one of the previews below.

Sue

Fashion Shoot

2010-11-11T11:48:00.005-06:00

When my sisters and I visited the Arboretum in June, Nancy and I found these fun hats at the gift shop, so we modeled them for Liz. No, I didn't buy the huge hat.

Jen Reed’s part of the IL November 2010 Mega Sampler
Fonts: Freebooter Script, Square721 BT

For this layout, I used Jen Reed's part of the Inspiration Lane IL November 2010 Mega Sampler. Click on the preview below visit IL and see the whole kit.

Sue

Memories of Art

2010-11-06T09:33:00.014-05:00

My mom, my sister and I spent a day at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. It was a day to remember in many ways.

Cherish by Jen Reed
Some photos of art taken by myself or my sister
Other photos are stock photos

Our visit to the Minneapolis Institute of Art brought back memories for Mom, Liz and me.

Mom remembered the many times she went to the museum while she was in nurses’ training. She attended classes at Macalester College in St. Paul, but she worked and lived at Northwestern Hospital, very close to the Art Institute.

Her hometown was many hours away in west central Minnesota while most of her friends’ homes were around the Cities, so when they went home for the weekend, Mom walked to the nearby Art Institute.

Admission was free and Mom loved art, so it was a wonderful place for her to go on weekends.

Liz and I remember various trips to the Art Institute we made over the years with our family, Girl Scout or Brownie troops and schoolmates. Certain pictures stood out in our memories, while we viewed others as new-found friends.

A. We both remembered Van Gogh’s vibrant painting, “Olive Trees”.

B. The intricate ruffled collars seen in some portraits were also etched in our minds. One example is Paulus Moreelse’s portrait of Catharinava Voorstmia.

C. I also remembered dark paintings like Rembrandt’s Lucretia, although they weren’t my favorites.

D. Nowadays, Liz especially likes the work of artists like Monet. This is one example.

E. As soon as we saw it, Liz and I both liked George Morrison’s landscape collage made of driftwood. However, we didn’t know it portrayed the shoreline of Lake Superior until Liz read the written description.

F. We both appreciated the artistry shown in “Fishing Vessels Offshore In A Heavy Sea” by Ludoph Backhuyesen. Liz admired the roiling clouds while I felt the roll of the sea.

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For this layout, I used "Cherish" by Jen Reed. You can receive this kit for FREE if you complete Jen's November blog challenge. All you have to do is make a layout with a free template, also available on Jen's blog. Click here or on the template preview to check out her challenge.

For those who wish to purchase "Cherish", click here or on the kit preview. It's half-price this weekend only.

In fact, ALL of the items at Jen's store are half price for this weekend only, November 6 and 7. Take a peek at the goodies available by clicking here.

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I'll be back soon with our family's version of the Brady bunch!

Sue

Once Young with a Freebie Alert!

2010-11-04T17:56:00.006-05:00

Do you think of your great grandparents as always being old and proper? Naturally, that’s not true.

This is my Great Grandpa Julius' customs entry card from around 1900 when he emigrated from Germany as a teenager. It was so creased and stained (probably from being carried around in his pocket) that I had to do a lot of touching up on his photo.

Great Grandpa wasn’t always exactly proper, either. He traveled to the US aboard the steamship on which his brother worked, but Julius probably didn't have money for the fare, so he stowed away.

Yesterday by Jen Reed
Font: Old Newspaper Types Medium
WW Scraplift Template by KennaE (modified)

To make this page, I used "Yesterday" by Jen Reed. This kit works wonderfully with black and white, heritage photos. I plan to use it to make more pages about my great grandpa and other relatives.

You can get this kit FREE in November. Jen is the E-scape and Scrap Blog Designer of the month for E-scape and Scrap, and she is offering "Yesterday" free in her ESS store. No purchase is necessary. Check it out here or click on the preview below.

Don't wait until tomorrow; get Yesterday today! LOL

Sue

Sweethearts

2010-11-04T13:57:00.004-05:00

A Quiet Place by Jen Reed
Font: Monotype Corsiva Italic
Scraplifted from layout by scrappycharmer (rotated, used one photo instead of two)
I submitted this layout to the IL November Scraplift Challenge.

Sue