Tickled Pink Tonya

What Luck?

2007-10-06T02:00:00.000-04:00

I'm a full hearted believer in destiny and the road carrying you wherever it is you're meant to be. I know there is a reason for the things going on in my life and deep in my soul, I believe I'll be better for having struggled. It occurred to me that I haven't given an update on Cody's incredible recovery. Do you know that you couldn't even tell he'd had an accident by the 10th day which is magically (weekends included) the day he returned to school?
Well, this brings me to what reminded me of this. Would you believe that he's had yet ANOTHER ACCIDENT?????!!!!!!!!!!!!! YES!!!!!!!!!!! Joey had taken the boys riding last night and on the last trip out for the evening, Cody gets out there and pogos in a landing, in the process pins the throttle wide open on the dirtbike and is off into the dirt and woods apparently. Keep in mind that I wasn't there and I only get the call from Joey on his way home no less. "Uh, I just thought I'd let you know that Cody has hurt his wrist."
I didn't even want to look. I was sick and disgusted by the financial burden and the fact that I have no job!!!!! Unfortunately, it wasn't going away whether I saw it or not. I did look and from the top side, it was just fine. But the inside looked WRONG! It was swollen and blue and I knew in my gut that the boy had broken something. Joey took him to the ER. They were out until 4am and sure enough Cod-meister is in a cast. Orthopedic to follow in three days...
Can I please just stop this screaming, sick, disguisted, nauseated, feeling going on inside my head? It seems that I can't escape this part of my life. I'm not trying to wish my days away while waiting on things to stabilize... So little control... That's how I feel. And don't think that I don't know this is really all about Cody. (deep grumbly voice coming on here) AND THE DANG RACING!!!!!!!!! I don't know if I'll ever fully be able to support this new "era" in our life and all three of my boys are in it up to their eyeballs...
It is simply infuriating that anytime someone mentions an injury or worse yet, a fatality from riding, Joey runs them out of my earshot to have this "adult conversation" that I apparently am not strong enough or smart enough to particpate in. And yet.............. I'm living it! I have no job, not sure how much insurance will cover, wondering how to keep up the routines of our daily life and pile on the added emergency room stresses... I'm going out of my mind here!
I didn't intend for this to be a rant. I love my life and I love my family. But, I will be so glad when I have some control and actual sleep filled nights. How delightful it will be to effortlessly BE the happy go lucky person I like to think that I am... Please, oh please, let me find a job SOON!!!!!!!
I hope this will be somewhat therapudic and that maybe - just maybe - I can actually get some sleep. One could hope, right? If you would just put me and my family in your prayers, I'd greatly appreciate it.

Just Drive...

2007-10-03T15:26:00.000-04:00

It seems more and more that's the feeling I'm getting... With no destination in mind and no limit on time, I leave for the gas station and keep getting the urge to just go and go and go. With the wind at my back, the sun on my shoulders, and my favorite tunes in the air, its' the most comforting feeling I know right now. It's likely the wonderful weather that beckons me or maybe the fact that I'm just so lost in my own stress right now that I can't help but find the call of the road to be my own sweet escape.
I'd like to escape this rut in my life. The void left in the hours once devoted to employment are driving me out of my mind. I'm worried, constantly. I'm desperate. I'm so many different emotions at one time that there isn't a better word to describe it other than "basket case".
I should apologize for stressing over and over but that's where every thought that I have goes. Why I let it define me, I can't be sure but please say a little prayer that something, whatever it is, comes my way.

Seeing Zac Brown

2007-09-25T19:38:00.000-04:00

I was scoping my brother's profile on myspace when I saw this band in his top 4 friends. Wondering what a band would be doing in his top 4, I found myself following the link to the Zac Brown Band profile. I instantly fell in love with the first song that played, and the second, and third and fourth. Realizing they were a local band and flipping over their sound, I went ahead and purchased two of their CD's. I submitted a friend request and became one of their many fans! Joey had left town for a week and the house was mine to run. Realizing I had an opportunity to escape for a night without guilt of leaving the kids with him, I diligently went to planning the night out with my best friend. I full heartedly believe in fate and each step of finding and seeing Zac Brown Band was as I see it, destiny in motion.
We were right at the stage, within 6 feet of Zac himself and the bass guitar guy (atleast that's what I think he was playing) was directly in front of us. They rocked the house! We danced from 10pm until 2:23am. I would consider that shutting the place down as it did close at 2:30. I'm definitely a fan of the music but the experience of a live band was incredible! Then there is the added and wonderful bonus of spending the evening with my dearest and bestest friend in the whole great big wide world who I can't thank enough for making it happen! Woohoo!

credit for layout: Kay Miller - Live for the Joy set from KayMillerDesigns

Cody is Improving

2007-09-10T19:23:00.000-04:00

It's been crazy around here but I thought I'd give you guys an update! Cody is healing really well. We were able to irrigate his wounds which helped him to open his eye. Through this, we discovered it was filled with blood. But, I believe we might already be seeing the beginning of scabbing and his swelling has gone down to the point that he can wear his glasses. The poor boy is practically blind without them so not only did he have a mutilated face, he was dealing with near blindess too. We took him today to have his hair washed and conditioned which I'm sure made him feel better.Joey and Trevor raced motorcycles on Saturday night and did really well. I'm disappointed that we couldn't be there but Cody couldn't afford to be covered in the red clay dust with open wounds. Instead, my best friend came over and we hung out in the living room and giggled the night away while Cody had a steady flow of friends checking up on him too. Good times!
I got out for a bit on Sunday and bought a couple of photography books. The secret to lighting eludes me and our house stays so dark. I've not taken photos lately like I had been. Between lighting, natural (yet unique) poses and the actual science of manual settings which I've been tinkering with and thanks to digital; settle for trial and error, I just feel the need to learn more. I've enjoyed photography more than I can say but I'm ready to be a master. I've gotten some great photos over the years but it's either sheer luck or Photoshop ability that brings them to life. Besides, there's a big hole in this trial and error plan and someday, I'm afraid I'll miss THE shot because of it.
Anyway, everything's getting back to normal. All in all, it's the best case scenario of any trauma. We could stack the miracles of near misses and the timing of it all in piles... I know there's a reason for everything. We are truly blessed and we've been reminded just how precious life is and just how important our friends and family are to us. That's what I'm taking from this event.
Here's a photo of his healing progress. I'm mighty proud of this boy. He's been incredibly brave and I'm sure grateful he's improving as quickly as he is.

Home from Hospital

2007-09-07T21:35:00.000-04:00

Cody had a serious bicycle accident yesterday. Face plant into the dirt right over the handle bars while going over a two foot plastic ramp in a neighbor's front yard. He's been over the same ramp countless times but luck wasn't on his side this last time. He was unconscious for several minutes.

He was first transported by ambulance, then life flight to Eggleston Children's Hospital in Atlanta. He was admitted for overnight stay. After X-rays and various testing he was cleared to come home with some pretty hefty facial lacerations and "yard" burn. No broken bones, no paralysis.... He does have "air" under his skin which is NOT supposed to be happening. It has managed to get through one of his various lacerations and poses the potential for infection. His glasses didn't break into his eyes, no brain swelling, So many reasons to be thankful.

I'm posting the photos in my myspace folder. He's going to be out of school next week while on pain meds, anasthetic mouth wash, antibacterial gel and antibiodics. He's been a trooper. Breaks my heart to see him being so brave through all of it. We weren't admitted until 2am as we were waiting on the surgeon to stitch him up. None of us slept much if at all. (Joey & I stayed with him. Joey's sister took our two younger ones) So we'll do some resting up, keep the boy inclined and slow the pace down for a bit so he has a chance to recover. They say it'll be 2-3 weeks for scabbing and healing but that's pretty quick thanks to his youth.

Please keep him in your prayers for a steady and speedy recovery. It would be most appreciated!

Photo Link: Cody

Thank you all for your support!

Tonya

First Dirtbike Races!

2007-08-26T11:33:00.000-04:00

The boys had their first dirtbike race over the weekend... Which by the way, when I say the boys, I mean both sons and my husband... Honestly, I would say that their entire day and certainly the last few hours were heavy in the case of nerves. Trevor had backed out over and over again right up to the moment that Joey was signing the form for entry. They had very short practices for each "class" and the racing started at 7pm. We were at the track from 3pm until nearly midnight.
The boys did well. Cody and Trevor both held their own in both motos. Joey did well too. In fact, when all was said and done, he'd taken 2nd place. Although he'd been on the track with better than 10 other riders, there was only one more in his class. We didn't realize this while he was actually racing him. Joey won the first moto and the other guy won the 2nd. But, the 2nd held more weight so Joey got 2nd place! Isn't that funny? I'm proud of him but then I'm proud as long as they all stay in one piece...
The most eventful thing for Kaitlyn and me was that we were covered in red clay dust. Yes, we looked as though we had a nice tropical tan if you really want to find a glamarous description. Atleast it was even coverage unlike the tan in the bottle! Anyway, we entertained ourselves by trips to the rest room, chatting with friends and neighbors... OH! I did forget to mention that several of our neighbors showed up to support them and two other neighbors were racing too.
I'll probably get around to a layout at some point despite my pictures coming out terrible because it all started so late. I can atleast use this post to remind me of details that will surely escape my mind.

The Perfect Day

2007-08-21T22:13:00.000-04:00

It's been a tough couple weeks for me... Not to say they've not been great but I could truly end up being a professional couch potato if I'm not careful. And that's not the plan! Anyway, in the middle of it all... I go to stir the little chicadee... For four years it's pretty much been the same... No matter what lengths you go through, if you are waking her up rather than her doing the rise and shine thing on her own... then it's scary! But, instead I have this little angel... I know this will likely never happen again and I should know better than to hope for it but on top of all this... My boy is good too! My teenager is respectful and dh also being a sweetie... I think we ALL 5 had good days on the same day! Strange and yet wonderful!

Anyway... as for me, you'd think I'd be getting all sorts of things accomplished while not working. My computer is definitely getting a cleaning up and re-organizing but unfortunately I'm the only one that sees or reaps the rewards there. My family and friends just see me at the computer every waking moment and more often than not, I'm on it while they are sleeping too. Actually, they'd probably freak out if they walked through and I wasn't plastered on the couch... Which is a good thing no one was home today. I CLEANED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I cleaned, the bathrooms to the degree that you can smell the clean before getting to the door in the hall. The kitchen was clean before dinner. I went through two bags of hand me down clothes for Kaitlyn and did the ritual of her trying all kinds of stuff on. They are sorted, in her drawers and boxes for future use. Never mind the fact that they've been there in the living room floor for a week or better. Anyway, it's been productive to say the least. I think that I'll step away again (from the computer) and stay motivated.... The shock of it all! Til next time!

So many questions...

2007-08-20T10:59:00.000-04:00

I took a bit of time for self reflection.. Actually, I'm thinking pretty much non-stop but when I sat and tried to scratch my thoughts out on paper, I spent two days staring at a blank page which is where this begins...

I sit here, staring at this blank page. What have I to say about where I've been? What defines who I am and what I'll become? Just what does the future hold? Seems more and more I'm realizing I'm a blank slate. I'm a mother of three and proud of it. I've just lost my job of fourteen years that I kept mostly because it was comfortable. I wasn't blind sided. The writing had been on the wall for a long time. I had spent countless sleepless nights worrying over it. My responsibilities were dissipating. I feel I'd been running from it for so long, that I was initially relieved that it had finally happened. I worked from home. Secretary - never seemed glamorous but occasionally, I got an assignment that allowed me to stretch my wings into the technical or creative arena, which provided hints of the career I so desire...

I've searched the classifieds and rather than filling me with hope for all the possibilities, I'm overwrought with anxiety. Who'd have thought you could need an Associate's Degree for Secretarial work and how does 14 years experience compare in the long run? I should get my degree. I know I'm mentally capable. How much time is involved? How much expense and not just financially? How much do I need to rely on Joey to pull the load? Will the extra strain rip at our relationship that I cherish even after all these years? Despite my growing collection of doubts, I don't feel there will ever be a better time. I know in my heart that if I don't follow through, it will be my life long regret. How will I live with that? Why would I allow myself that kind of disappointment?

I'm optimistic by nature though firmly planted in reality. I know that better things could be around the corner. I know that I'm capable of so much more. I'm down hearted though desperate to deny it. How can I be so confident and yet so insecure? I have to make something happen. Why in the brink of such an opportunity would I let myself down this way? Life is sweet. This is the chance to follow a dream. My Dream! Someday, I'll look back and wonder what took me so long to realize it. Right?

Creative Zen

2007-08-16T12:11:00.000-04:00

I've made numerous attempts at purchasing MP3 players. Even went out and purchased a portable DVR unit which I promptly returned the next morning. Well, finally made my way to some comparison shopping between the Zune and the Zen. Gotta tell ya that the Creative Zen absolutely positively ROCKS! In the end, it was the compact flash slot that pushed me in this direction as my digital camera uses this media and I can upload directly from the card. I'm in LOVE with the easily accessible playlists, access to ratings, the fact that it displays album art and the quality of sound when sent through my car audio... WHOAH, I get chills! But it even has it's own built in speaker. Ya just gotta love that! It even has FM radio and 32 presets.

Moving on to photos, they are crisp and bright and WONDERFUL! Of course it helps that it's displayed on a 4.3" TFT screen. I've yet to download any videos but the quality of the ad based content on the player is - IMPRESSIVE! You can even plug it right up to your tv with the included RCA cables and view videos or songs or even photos right from the tv. It has a large rechargable battery and the option to buy a back up (which I may do) and an optional remote... WOW! FINALLY an MP3 with everything that I'd been searching for and more!

The only negative I've found is that it automatically syncs from Windows Media Player despite selected sync content. I installed the Zen software for transferring files, it isn't as easy to gain access to my playlists and the style I've grown accustom to in WMP. Although, it's just personal preference. The capabilities and straight forward nature are easily navigated in its own right. It does offer Outlook and Calendar data syncs as well. Pretty neat option if you ask me.

Kay Miller's team

2007-07-10T22:48:00.000-04:00

I'm back on Kay Miller's team! How exciting! I was so thrilled to see her designing again but a little sad that she had a design team and I wasn't on it... Insert happy dance HERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can't wait to play with her gorgeous designs!

Tickled Zinc

2007-07-02T15:35:00.000-04:00

Well, it's been a month ALMOST! I got a new baby! I'd have never really considered my Xterra to be a baby exactly but now... (drum roll please) I am the positively pleased and proud owner of a 2002 Mustang GT Convertible, Stage 2 Jack Roush Edition... It's one SWEET RIDE! Figured I'd post up some pics...

I'm available to run to the store for just about anything assuming it's dry outside... I've become a little obsessive about cars in general... but then, I'm always throwing myself into my latest craze at atleast 150% effort. I'm modding and dreaming of future mods... I'm a car chic!

Yes, truly! I'm planning to attend some carshows in the near future... Nothing like the open road with no "lid"... :)

The Design Team Challenge...

2007-04-30T02:12:00.001-04:00

Well, I'm out of hiding. Created 9 layouts this week? Yep... But the fun part happened with Shawna and Dani who switched DT's for the week. I didn't realize it until Wednesday but no matter. I managed to create seven layouts with Dani's sets... How fun!

Some Favorite Photos

2006-11-22T18:17:00.000-05:00

Ode to my Joey

2006-11-09T12:25:00.000-05:00

And one that really speaks the truths of my heart!

I love this photo. (a little sad that it couldn't be clearer) But, Joey came and found us on our photo excursion through the woods on Saturday. I asked Trevor if he'd get a picture of mom and dad on the four wheeler. (hehehe) I've secretly wanted a half decent photo of the two of us for as long as I can remember. I've digitally tweaked it to the best of my ability because despite it being a bit blurry... it's exactly what I wanted...

He usually hates the camera so much that when I do get a picture of him, it's never a natural smile... actually it's not really any kind of a smile... it's that hunny bunny in headlights look that makes me feel guilty for even trying... I'm secretly tickled that I could use pink on a page with him too. Ugh, I hope I'm not ruining my chances of EVER getting another photo with him! :-)

Here's the journaling, (if you're interested)
For all the times he steps up and does things that he doesn't have to, like preparing dinners, cleaning the kitchen, getting the kids situated for bed and even going after the water they notoriously ask for once they are in bed... For all the dreams that he brings to life around our house... like the kitchen upgrade, the tile floors, the new mantle and the million other little honey do's... For all the times that he puts our needs above his own, which is not infrequent. For all the times that he truly listens to an opinion that he doesn't share but realizes the value it has for another and all the times he jumps to say he's sorry when he's not the only one in the wrong. He is quick to make things better... He is a rare find, a wonderful father, my best friend... so generous and loving... For this and so many other reasons... I love this man...

I used Carrie Stephens Love Potion set from Scrapbookgraphics or Fishscraps.. I also used her brushes from the Smorgasbord release. (I just stroked the outline of one of them)

New layouts!

2006-11-07T14:03:00.000-05:00

We took off on a 4 wheeler excursion / photo shoot on Saturday and I was so excited about my photos that I had to get to scrappin right away. I'm so excited about the fall pics... Last week would have been better, but we did manage to catch some fall color and found the day quite enjoyable!

This is the first layout with Trevor. He was a fantastic poser. Of course, I was bribing the both of them with fruit gummies so he'd smile, I'd snap the photo and he'd announce that he'd like grape this time or cherry...

Whatever works, right?

I used Shawna Clingerman's Grey Day set.

Kaitlyn was jumping about in front of the bushes for me and I found the perfect set to convey her energy. This is Maya's Zany set. I couldn't resist the googly eyes and the bright fun colors contrasted to the black and white...

Can you believe that I am sitting in my living room with boxes and boxes of Christmas stuff around me? I had hoped to decorate this week but work has been so crazy that I couldn't afford the time off. I've requested Wed-Fri though so by this weekend, my house will be the twinkling vision of Christmas! I don't suppose that'll ever happen if I'm sitting here typing to my blog though... Hmmm... Gotta dash! :-)

Introducing my new kitchen!

2006-10-18T10:49:00.000-04:00

Click the thumbnail below to link to web album of the new kitchen! I'm so blissfully excited about it!

Kitchen

Girly layouts - yeah!

2006-10-13T11:56:00.000-04:00

Boy, oh boy... I feel like I've done such a good job of including the boys in my album lately that I've honestly missed the girly layouts like crazy!!!!! And like magic, a girly kit comes available with some of my favorite colors ever! I just love Maya's Charisma papers and I used that awesome gold bow in her Old World set to really put the emphasis on feminine... Turns out, I wasn't incredibly original though as Maya made light of the fact that she'd used that very bow in her preview for the set. I suppose it was subliminal inspiration because I didn't realize until her e-mail... but dang if she isn't right! hehehe either way, I love it! And isn't that one of the greatest digital bows ever?

Now, I got to poking around Tracy Ann's boutique over the weekend and fell in love with those awesome paint splotches and the sheer bright happy boldness of her vivid set. So, this won't be the last you see of bright happy and girly layouts with her stuff... :-) Anyway, you can click the images to get the bigger view. I just love that feature in picasa which I've finally gotten with the program and downloaded!

Well, I can't tell ya how excited I am that it's finally Friday! Joey's here and working on our kitchen. Truth be told, there's not much to see yet... but I can't wait to post some final shots of a totally made over kitchen... Wish him luck at a speedy finish! And have a great weekend everybody!

Birthday Surprise

2006-10-10T12:14:00.000-04:00

Well, I've decided to do something entirely different for Cody's birthday this year and I'm so excited about it too. I had created a poster and then decided to scrap it and THEN loved the bottom part so much that I had to revamp the poster to include it... But, I'm thrilled with it and I think that Cody will be too! Check it out!

Oh, I used Shawna's techno grunge set again but I recolored it. I also used her linez frames. I'll post a pic once we've hung it on his wall! hehehe I'm so excited!

New Kitchen Floor!

2006-10-08T23:10:00.000-04:00

Joey and I installed a floor over the weekend. Okay, fine! Just today. He's planning on putting the shoe mold down tomorrow and putting up new paint. Ya see, we started this project last year and probably around this exact same time frame of October too. I had hoped to have the crown up AND PAINTED OUT by Cody's birthday party which of course, DID NOT HAPPEN.... The crown went up, and he puttied and primed it. Unfortunately, it never went any further than that. So here we are facing October 20th and Cody's birthday party again this year with a new floor and the hopes to be completely finished with the kitchen by that time. Cross your fingers for me!

Halloween is on it's way!

2006-10-06T18:19:00.000-04:00

We've been out and about on the 4 wheeler today... The trees are spectacular. I wish I had my camera with me... In fact, I think I may still go back out with the camera... And seems I owe someone a photo on the 4 wheeler... which ought to be interesting as I'm always the one with the camera.Anyway... here's a couple new layouts and a great Halloween treat or trick (depending on how you look at it).

Mr. Cool

2006-10-03T00:24:00.000-04:00

Woohoo... I've been on a scrappin marathon over the last couple of weeks. And it's been so fun! Of course, I'm losing lots and lots and lots of sleep because of it so the ride has to end soon... But, I've enjoyed it while it's lasted... and what better time to be scrappin "rides" then now. I've taken so many dirtbike shots over the last couple of years and rarely scrap them...

Some, because a lack of masculine kits, but mostly because I wasn't inspired by them at the time. I loved playing with the Mr. Cool set by Shawna Clingerman. It was perfect for my boys and I'm sure they are glad to finally see some of these shots in my book!

Free Fall

2006-10-02T20:11:00.000-04:00

I guess I really enjoy all the seasons but I'm always over joyed when the beginning of the new season is just showing itself. I do love fall colors! They are in my house all year round. Not sure if I realized how much until I started scrapping with this Free Fall set by Shawna Clingerman.

I realize it's been a long time since I've really gotten the camera out. (very very unusual for me. Expecially considering I've been to a birthday party at Pump it Up, the skating rink, on 4 wheeler rides, at a neighbor's party Labor Day Party, a Home and Garden party (also with neighbors)... Through all of these events, I never once drug my camera along! Opportunities missed but I feel like I "experienced" the events rather than "captured" them and I'm not particularly disappointed over it... Am I losing it? Geez, I hope not!

Busy, busy me...

2006-09-28T19:52:00.000-04:00

I've spent DAYS trying to revamp my little blog. And I'm not afraid to say, it's kicked my tail too! For instance, I can't upload photos directly from blogger. And I can ONLY upload 1 photo through Hello. So, I had to download picasa. Which is really cool by the way. I've done a couple layouts this week too. Anyone noticed that SBB seems abandoned lately? I've opened a gallery at DST and that place moves FAST! Lots going on all the time! I'm pretty exhausted and have a terrible headache tonight so I'll just keep this short and sweet... I've got another post in the works with response to a tag. Stay tuned!

Oh, and a layout to share created by Carrie Stephens and Jessica Bolton's - Emily's Wish set.

2nd Layout is using Taran Conyers - Sunflower Fairy set

Would you believe?

2006-09-27T16:19:00.000-04:00

I've lived in this very neighborhood now for over 7 years. I used to joke that there were sensors around the entire neighborhood because the moment Joey raised the garage door, kids, neighbors, friends, everyone seemed to FLOCK to our driveway to hang out. And honestly, if it weren't our driveway, it was somebody else's. I would sit here at the house and be doing my own thing. Which before digital scrapbooking, used to be decorating and painting and getting ideas all centered around interior design. Fact is, since I've found digital scrapbooking, each new layout is a blank canvas and satisfies my creative urges to the point that my house, more often than not, takes a back seat to everything else in my life. Until Christmas time... but another story and I'll leave it at that... FOR NOW!

So, back to this neighborhood thing. My neighborhood is party central. We have just shy of 50 houses around the block and dadgum if 85% of them don't have four wheelers and many with dirt bikes too. There are woods just off a neighbor's back yard. And there are people that gather from 3 neighborhoods next to us just as darkness sets. And they all "mount up", call each other "Hetherins" (spelling may be wrong but that is phonetically how they say it) and RIDE! Joey recently decided to get us a new four wheeler as ours wasn't quite big enough to join this roaming party. I had asked for reverse, racks, headlights, and any color that couldn't be found in camoflauge. 3 out of 4 of this list realized... It's hunter green, I'm not thrilled about it but red just couldn't be found at the time.

We have been out with our little guys riding the trails with no less than some 50 ATV's of neighbors. Through creeks, mudholes, hills, ruts, over downed trees, there is no obstacle that seems too big with these incredible pieces of machinery... For me, I've only in the last few months gotten to KNOW the neighbors like this. And what a hoot! You can't believe how fun this can be!

I just went to a home and garden party over the weekend with.... YOU GUESSED IT! Neighbors! Basically, I have a life now... I've been inside for so long that many would doubt Joey had a wife if it weren't for being branded with the matching Ginormous fox sticker on the rear window of our vehicles parked in the driveway. And we have kids, I guess that might have proved my existence too! HA!

Anyway, I've had so much fun this past summer that I'm seriously dreading winter for the first time despite that wonderful, bright, loving holiday season that I look forward to all year long! WHOAH! Did I ramble or WHAT???? Good blogging Tonya... (pats herself on the back and happily skips away) :-)

Got some SCOOP! :-)

2006-09-26T07:32:00.000-04:00

Weeks have passed since my last post, yet again... It's really kind of sad that the one thing that I'm best at is INconsistency!!!! But, this blogging thing, try as I might just never becomes habit! Why I've not just hung it up and called it done, I can't quite say... But, here's the latest!

I took a big break over the summer, good for my family and home life, but not so good for keeping close ties in the scrappin' community. I was fortunate that my CT designers were taking a break also. I felt like I may have been juggling a little more than I could handle but in all truth, not a day went by that I didn't feel incredibly blessed to be on the teams I was on. Still true for my current teams... But, I really miss the designers that "hung up their mouse" as a dear friend put it.

So, I applied for Shawna Clingerman's design team call. Funny how life just takes you in a direction that you were meant to follow. That's how I felt about the events that led me to apply. I really wasn't familiar with her work though it turns out I'd seen a number of her gorgeous layouts and she's produced all sorts of brushes that many of the layout artists I've followed all along had been using. I've been really bad at reading newsletters lately too but got Dani's and was so drawn to that totally cool Techno Grunge set featured on the back "cover". (tick tock, tick tock) Fast forward through what seemed an eternity of waiting. I'm leisurely browsing my e-mail after a neighborhood four wheeler ride. (which by the way is "four deep" for us, meaning four bodies on board. Joey driving, Trevor and Kaitlyn switching up spots and me leaned out away from the 4 wheeler much like a recliner minus the comfort and hanging on to a back rack) OOPS! Got sidetracked didn't I? (more on that later, if you can stand it)

So, I was leisurely going through my e-mail upon my return when much to my dismay, sat that little gem of an e-mail with Shawna's invite to be on her Creative Team! Totally bustin out with the happy dance!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WOOHOO!!!!!!!!! I desperately wanted to be a part of this team. I've only seen a handful of her fabulous creations but between the awesome sets, her totally rockin' layouts from her blog, and the energy and spunk in her correspondence, I'm even MORE EXCITED to have been accepted on my little scraps design team. That makes me one of "Shawna's Girl's"!!!!!!! So, that's the big news for me!!! I am so honored especially after poking through all the galleries over there, and seeing the talent she has on her existing CT... I'm totally loving the interraction and EVERYONE is so nice and witty!!!! I'm on cloud 9!!!!!!!!!

Echos of a hollow blog...

2006-09-04T13:45:00.000-04:00

Yep, I nearly choked when I realized how long it's been since I've checked in here. Turns out, I even forgot my logon and password so it's been quite the pickle getting back too! It's no secret that I've been MIA for most of the summer. I had to step away from my computer monitor almost completely to get some real life things accomplished. It seems that if you mean to sit there for 10 or 15 minutes or even say ONE HOUR... You can be there half the day before realizing it. So, cold turkey for a while... I've focused on living more fully. We've gone on vacation, been taking the boys to BMX races where they are collecting trophy after trophy. Kaitlyn and I have been out and about on the four wheeler and swimming and playing in the sandbox and a little bit of shopping. She is a constant beam of sunshine when in her sweet little girlie mood but can change the tone in an instant if angered... We're working on the fits right now. Making no progress now mind you... but working on it...

I've spent more time taking care of myself than quite possibly ever in my entire life. I recently purchased some extensions which I did honestly research on the web for countless hours. www.extensions.com I was so anxious about this decision and finally made the leap. Wanna see? I just got some pics yesterday with them curled and it's my favorite way to wear my hair now. I certainly don't wear them around the clock but it makes for a great totally different and fun look!

Well, I got on the computer early this morning and it's now 1:49 so you can see that nothing has changed in that department. But, I'm hoping to be around more frequently since the weather is starting to turn cooler. We're already seeing yellow and red in the leaves. Fall is SO making its entrance! I'm going to enjoy a dose of outside right this minute! :-)

Checking in...

2006-04-01T22:54:00.000-05:00

It's April Fool's Day! I didn't pull any pranks but I did have a fabulous spring day! I took the kids to see Ice Age 2 the Meltdown. It's awesome!

I shot a wedding yesterday along with dh's sister. It was quite lovely... I'm going through pics and trying to narrow them down. On the way from the service to the reception, I saw the MOST AMAZING sunset! The area was gorgeous too. Realizing that I was watching this amazing light fade before we could get pics at the new destination. I pulled out the camera and poked it in the direction of the sunset while driving... on a pretty darn curvy road too... So, I'm amazed that I was able to get this shot... Sure wish I'd have had time to stop and give it proper attention..

Ya know what? We just got a DVR last weekend and I'm totally IN LOVE! I've tried a couple other times to purchase but they were finally running a special. I can now see why everyone loves their TIVO. Holy cow! I can't believe I've missed out on this incredible technology until now... I'm watching my soaps that I missed from being away and the commercials are taking 10 seconds of my life. hehehe - Now, if I can just figure out how to move my old home movies to DVD... I'd just throw away the VCRs!

Well, I know I'm all over the place tonight... I've been that way for a while, which is why I've resisted blogging at all... But, short, sweet, and all over the place - I'm done...

Happy day to all the April Fools out there! hehe

Boring stuff...

2006-03-21T00:18:00.000-05:00

Does it seem like time is just a blur anymore? Or is it just me... I'm so stuck in the routine of things lately. One day blends to the next and it's all the same! I think that maybe I need a vacation. AND speaking of vacations... This is the year I'm supposed to whole heartedly look forward to the excursion and I've done a bit of backsliding in the weight loss department. About 10 pounds worth in fact. YIKES! Can we say treadmill? I've been on it again. I can't afford to get behind with summer just around the corner. So, I figure if I own up to it publicly (or atleast honestly with the small amount of traffic here on the ole blog) that I might just own it and move forward.

The flip side of the weight thing is that I've gotten past the scrapper's block... I don't feel creatively "unleashed" but I have been pretty happy with the last few layouts. I figured I'd share my most fav. I'm such a sucker for this red pink and aqua color scheme and the mod girls did this collaboration set that totally ROCKS! I just love all the fun elements and honestly... I think I used 90% of the set on this one layout.

So, it's the first official day of spring and it's cold and raining cats and dogs here tonight. Doesn't feel much like spring but I'm excited! Happy first day of spring everyone!

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

Fonts Used: CK Terzini
Elements/Extras: Modscraps collaboration - cutie patootie set
Ali Folendore, Amy Martin, Dawn Stocstill, Helen O'Daniel, Kristin Cronin-Barrow

The root of the problem

2006-03-03T16:03:00.000-05:00

I've had some serious scrapper's block for the last couple weeks. And I hadn't until today been able to put my finger on the cause. Well, in checking e-mail, I would hit the delete key and it's taking WAY TOO long to even "render" the freaking delete key! TALK ABOUT PUTTING YOUR FINGER ON THE PROBLEM! HOW LITERAL COULD YOU POSSIBLY BE? I've tried to be patient... I've tried my very best NOT to use a credit card and just wait for my tax return $$$... It is officially an EMERGENCY! I am going to the computer store this evening and purchasing another GIG of RAM! It's been wearing on me for 2 months now.

So, on the bright side, I am in sunny GA where it's a bit cool but the Bradford Pears have bloomed and those pretty yellow bushes that I don't know the name of... But, so many of them look like the little troll dolls that you spin and the fuzzy hair is on end! hehehe - they make me smile.. Jonquils have sprouted and even these pink trees which I had thought were cherry trees but there's a Cherry blossom festival in late March so they must be something else. Geez, I am even looking forward to pollen! I LOVE spring and it's SO on the way! :-)

No snow to speak of this year which is the downfall. We had light flurries outside a while back and Joey was calling it a blizzard! It had collected less than a dusting at the edge of the sidewalk and he warned me to be careful of the snowdrift and not to slip and fall when getting out of the truck because it was slick out there! I, of course, jumped out and pulled off the ole banana peel looking fall. Which, I must admit cracked us both up. Sooooooooooo, WE had fun in the snow even if it wasn't worth taking a single picture of it...

Well, I just want to wish you all a HAPPY WEEKEND! I'm so looking forward to it! Oh, and I'll leave you with a copy of my recent layout that really makes me happy! Thanks for stopping by and spending a moment or two with me!

ta ta for now! hehe

Fonts Used: CK Flip Serif, CK Jacque, Century Gothic
Elements/Extras: Dawn Stocstill and Ashley Olson - Inspire set from Express Yourself CD at the SBB store

EEEK!

2006-03-01T10:50:00.000-05:00

I realize it's March already! Where in the heck did February go? I'm working on a new header this evening! CRAZY BUSY lately! :-)

I should be in bed....

2006-02-19T01:01:00.000-05:00

It's 1:03am and for the first time in a long while... I've not been plastered in front of my monitor either scrapping or surfing the web... I've been watching tv. It is usually background noise as are more things than I care to admit. But, tonight... I watched THE NOTEBOOK. I'd heard it was a wonderful movie.... I won't spoil it for any of you who have not already seen it. But IT IS AN INCREDIBLE story and my heart feels as though it could explode! I will definitely see this again sometime....

It's been a really good day all together. My plans for this morning were molded in the McDonald's drive thru last night. Kaitlyn was so excited to be having McD's but tortured to realize we weren't going from the drive thru to the playground. This is the 2nd time this month she's done this... So, I promised to take them to McDonald's this morning to play. I brought my laptop and worked on a layout with little success so instead, pulled out my camera and got some random photos, chatted with a nice woman at a nearby table, and just watched them play. It was rainy and cold outside. We had no better place to be. Joey and his buddy even popped in for a bit. We were there for about 2 and half hours when it became apparent that they'd both truly had enough.
We ran a few errands and came home where they went to play on their own for a bit while Joey and I worked on a the bathroom. Lots of icky stuff there... Seems the toilet ring has been leaking for some time now but Kaitlyn's bubble bath soaking the entire floor last weekend made it impossible to ignore. And ya know when your bathroom smells, no one says anything to you directly but the word travels fast outside of your home... So, long story short, the floor is up, new plywood down and no toilet until tomorrow. Not that you care to hear any of this detail... But, the good part, is that I feel we've gotten something worth while accomplished.

Piled on to the loveseat this evening with the two littlest ones to see Charlie and the Chocolate Factory on tv. Commercials were the perfect time for zerberts, tickling... pointing out NOSE, EYES... just the silly stuff that never seems like much until you're looking back and those little guys went and grew like weeds... Yes, this loveseat has certainly earned it's name. So packaging this day all up with a great love story as the finale makes me really appreciate these things all the more.

Now, I get the added bonus of having a REAL entry to my little blog that I'm still not sure I should even be pouring time into... But, who knows, it may shine the light on some needed journaling soon... So, I'm really going to make an effort to put more of myself into my entries.

Spreading the LOVE and a bit of fairy dust!

2006-02-09T12:39:00.000-05:00

Don't ya just love fairy stuff? It's one of the rights you earn simply for being female... Well, if ya love it like I do and think that your collection wouldn't be complete without the sweet little digital fairy accessories below... Click the photo for a link to Maya's blog. Yes, it's a freebie!!! Thanks Maya!

Girly layouts!

2006-02-05T00:34:00.000-05:00

Fine! I admit it! I love doing girlie pages... the more sparkle, bling, ribbons, bows, shimmers, flowers, etc.. etc... the BETTER! And, I've just done a ton of girl pages. Yes, my conscience does bother me a little. But in all truth, this girl is my shadow. But, then a shadow that brightens my every day. I don't suppose that makes a lot of sense, huh? Well, I'd have to go outside and chase my boys down as they are ALWAYS on the move... Is that an excuse? I'm gonna quit now. Here's some of my fav's. Figured I'd show the "heart" too since I've posted the template as a download.

Maya of Scrapbook graphics - Believe set
Kay Miller - Shabby Strawberry Set at Scrapbook-Elements

Brenda Kempf - A Token of Love set - A Cherry on Top
Trish Jones and Dawn Stocstill - That's Hawt CD - Sweets set - SBB store

Tagged - take TWO!

2006-02-03T21:30:00.000-05:00

Okie dokie - I wouldn't want to be accused of ignoring my little blog here. And since I've actually gotten a couple visitors stopping by... I thought I'd share a shape template for this heart. I know it's simple and you could all do it yourself, but this way, you don't have to! :-) Just use the paper of your choice, add some inner shadows and drop shadows and BAM! a HEART BOX! I tried sharing this at SBB but never heard anything back and it hasn't been posted.... Let's see, it has been about a month... So here ya go if ya want it!

Shape Template Download

Got tagged by Holly and Manda! Thanks girls! Sorry, I'm a slacker!
What were you doing 10 years ago?
Feb 1996. Living in a different town here in GA with Joey, Cody (was only 3) and Joey's friend Carl & his two kids. I was driving a Ford Probe and working for D&B.

Five snacks you enjoy (in no particular order, as all snacks are created equal)
1. Fat Free Pudding
2. Pretzels
3. White Cheese and tortillas
4. Fat Free Cheddar Cheese Chips
5. Newly discovered RITZ CHIPS (yum)

Five songs to which you KNOW all the lyrics:
1. Hotel California - Eagles
2. Sweet Home Alabama / Freebird - Lynyrd Skynyrd
3. All Cried Out - Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam
4. Can't Cry Anymore - Sheryl Crow
5. Sister Don't Cry - Collective Soul
I genuinely didn't notice the theme in the last three songs until I reread this just now... hmmm? not sure what to think here)

and I never in a million years thought this would happen. I can enjoy the sweet peaceful sound of pure silence! 3 kids... uh huh... yeah!

Five bad habits:
1. procrastinating
2. staying up too late
3. not cleaning house consistently
4. biting my knuckles (I know weird, I hate it)
5. being scatterbrained

Five things you like doing:
1. Scrapping
2. Taking pictures
3. dressing my girl
4. watching Desperate Housewives
5. surfing the net

Five things you would never wear, buy, or get again:
drawing total blanks here... sorry!
Five favorite toys:
1. My computer
2. My Camera
3. My portable DVD
4. Portable HD
5. remote power switches throughout the house

Scrapper's Block and new layouts

2006-01-31T21:24:00.000-05:00

Well, it turns out I came down with some major scrapper's block last week. I sat down in front of 3 attempted layouts that I'd inevitably deleted... So just maybe I'd spent too much time in front of this monitor... So, while the boys went riding motorcycles all day... Kaitlyn and I got out and about. We went to pick up some photos, ran by Sally's beauty supply. I just love how interested she is in all the different things there. She goes right to sparkly body gels and finger nail polish and she really loved the artificial hair. Okay, so did I but I wasn't brave enough to walk out with anything and since she couldn't look without touching, we cut that visit short. We then went to the park and had the best time. The weather was warm and bright right here at the close of January. We stayed at the park for so long that I didn't have to drag her kicking and screaming back to the truck!
I also had to do a layout that better told the story of how she got this build-a-bear. I promised Heather that I'd give her the credit she deserved in buying this for her. She was a little too young to get a grasp of the full experience but she does love this bear. Fortunately, the whole concept of changing the clothes is lost on her. She strips it down as she does her dollies every chance she gets! It was a fun experience though!

Girls just wanna have fun - Candy Dots set by Helen O'Daniel of Modscraps
Build a Bear - Lovey Dovey set by Helen O'Daniel of Modscraps

Sunshine!

2006-01-24T12:39:00.000-05:00

Whew! I needed a little boost to my spirits... Last week was very tough on me... I won't go in to detail... But, it doesn't help that it has RAINED for the last 3 days straight here... That beautiful bright balmy thing up in the sky along with the blue surrounding it sure makes for a bright and HAPPY day! I've been wishing for snow like crazy but a day like today makes me wish for spring... Minus all that yuckie sinus stuff!

I'm giddy!

Setting the record straight...

2006-01-22T04:41:00.000-05:00

Now see... this is what I was going for in my photo shoot last night... I wanted something a little sexy without being graphic. A morsel of my passion that would be fitting of a scrapbook. And as you can see, I've done some photo manipulation. I built layers and started playing with blending options. I was thinking album cover'ish. And my message here to dh... is that without him, without US... it's not home... I'm here, I love him and I'm going no where.

He just asked if I had an internet love thing going on because I'm at my computer so much. I told him if he ever so desired to walk up to my keyboard, hit the little icon that looks like a letter, it will log on to my e-mail automatically and prepare to be bored to death. I do have an internet love but it is nothing more than scrapbooking and sharing that passion with those that love it every bit as much as I do. But, it bothers me that he would even question it. I understand because there are others out there that DO that sort of thing. But, it's not me. I just wanted to assure him...

oh, I did a lot of blending on the backgrounds too...

Carrie Stephens and Michelle Coleman - Come Together set

A re-commitment

2006-01-21T18:50:00.000-05:00

I am notorious for running around with a pony tail, sweat pants, fleece sweatshirt and no make-up in the winter time. I'm not even sure what came over me last night. But, I'd bought myself a flat ceramic hair straightener and styled my hair and decided I'd try to do something different with my make-up... THEN, I thought how silly of me to let this go to waste! So, I set up the lights and black background and did my very own photo shoot. I was planning on sharing them with dh, Joey to remind him; I'm not always in sweats and a ponytail.

Sweet Kisses Set by Trish Jones available at SBB store. Fiber and ribbons with ring by me.

But, it hit me that if I'm going to get to my goal size of 5 (preferably) but no more than a 7/8 by summertime, I'd better get my but in gear, like PRONTO! I've gotten way too comfortable with my 10's and 12's since about November. I've maintained my weight but that WON'T CUT IT. So, I did this layout!

I WILL put my heart into it like I had before. I lost 60 pounds from June - November of last year. And I still have 40 to go! YIKES!

I have the photo that Trevor took of me in the driveway. I knew he was taking it but I had every intention of deleting it. Turns out, between that and the possibility of HAVING to go to Daytona Beach over the 4th of July week... which I couldn't bare the thought of... I decided to make a change. I jumped on the treadmill and kept going and going for way over 200 miles in those months.

This will be the year that I actually look forward to vacation! I WILL make my goal!

What have I gotten myself into now?

2006-01-19T23:33:00.000-05:00

Okay - let me just say that I've been blogging in "virtual silence" as I've not published my blog link until now. And so it begins... I may actually have a visitor or two. It's almost midnight here and I have to be up early again. Ugggh, can I just say that I am the anti-morning person? Strangely though, it somehow makes me feel good to say "good morning"... Go figure? Anyways, I don't have time to dust and clean up the place with good reading and I've been tagged! So, here it goes...

What scrapbooking lines/products/etc. do you DISlike?
Paper products! Hehe... I still love the two luggage carts that I have and though I don't use them, I can't let them go... But, I can walk into the scrapbook store, look and leave... Would never have been possible before digital.
What is the hardest thing you've ever had to scrap?
I am most stumped when trying to do a layout about me. Surprised to be standing alone on this one as I've read it on blogs everywhere and hadn't seen this answer yet.
What technique do you use more than any other?
MASKING! I use it in 80% of each layout and I tend to do layers upon layers of stuff on every single one... It never seems finished until I've done that.
Ever been published?
Yes, though only through the persistent prompting of submitting my layout. I finally decided, "what the heck" and gave it a try. It got selected a week later. I've not submitted since though.
What's the smallest scrap of paper you save?
paper? What's that you say? I saved slivers before, which drove me nuts, but I couldn't help myself... I'm so frugal! One less worry in digital!
Ever have any scrapbooking-related injuries?
nope - headache from working at a computer and playing at a computer, but that's the extent of it for me.
Finish the sentence..."If I wasn't a scrapbooker, I would spend my money…
electronic stuff! which, okay... I already do. most of the lights in my house can be activated from another room. I love surround sound, wiring the entertainment center, wireless headphones... oh geez, the list goes on and on...
Give us your best storage or organizational idea.
portable hard-drive... I couldn't live without it!
You just won a week-long scrapbooking cruise for 4. Who will you take with you?
How boring am I? I'd have to find 4 people to take the tickets... Just not that interested in leaving my family for a week. Who knows what they'd do without me around? Honestly, I'd rather NOT find out.
Your turn!! After you've answered the questions, tag 6 of your scrapbook buddies.
Is there anyone out there in blog land that hasn't already been tagged? If so, I'm begging you to step up and BE TAGGED!

What the heck?

2006-01-07T23:20:00.000-05:00

This was from the 4th of July weekend last year. I've been sitting on these photos but I loved them. I honestly don't remember how it all came about... but it was funny!!!!!!!! That's Joey's riding buddy Derek who spent the day over here and hung in the pool with Trevor MOST of the day. I was there - taking photos of it so it wasn't without consent... The color lasted maybe a week... Trevor loved the attention and it was DEFINITELY scrapworthy. (non-toxic of course) We actually laughed 'til it hurt...

Journaling Reads: Yeah... I know at first glance you have to be scratching your head thinkin... Huh? Well, I had bought a pool color for the 4th of July this year. It doesn't stain clothes or hair when put in the pool as directed... But, let's just say that someone has this bright idea to pour the remnants of the bottle directly on a boy with white blonde hair and eyebrows... Then, it stains! For about a week, in fact. But, Trevor loved walking around with pink hair and it's safe to say EVERYONE NOTICED!

Fonts: Susie's Hand, Batik Regular, Scriptina, Renaissance, Arial Narrow
Credits: Maya of Scrapbookgraphics - Good Times set

Couple of layouts I've done

2006-01-07T23:11:00.002-05:00

Loved this photo of little missy out in our front yard. My mom had given her this doll when she was tiny. She's grown a bunch since that time but this doll was still nearly as big as she is!

The layout is made is with Maya's passion set, can also be found at Scrapbookgraphics

This is my first layout for Scrapbookgraphics and my AAM page... I loved the look and feel of this paper set. Credits: Maya of Scrapbookgraphics - Free Spirit Back Pack - papers, Forever in Stitches 1, Old World Charm - bow, Alpha Coins, Funkified set - fiber (re-colored), and Old World Ties - vertical ribbon

Okay, I'm having serious withdrawals...

2006-01-07T22:38:00.000-05:00

thank goodness the rest of the world IS BLOGGIN! I feel so disconnected and very sad... I've said all along that SBB is my digital home and I'm locked out in the cold and missing all my friends... I really hope that gets worked out soon!

I do have a bit of good news to report though. I just got accepted to the design team of scrapbookgraphics this week! What fun that's been getting to know everyone there. And what talent! I'm so honored to be a part of it!

Otherwise, it's been a tough week for me. Joey is working outisde of his normal schedule. And well, I ADMIT IT! I'm very spoiled! I've always been a night owl for as long as I can remember. I don't require a lot of sleep but it seems the best sleep is in the mornings. I've been having to actually wake up at 6am to get my 3 rugrats to their appropriate daily destinations. DH has just kind of slipped into that morning schedule, getting Trevor and Cody up and ready while I roll out of bed at 7 to get Kaitlyn up and dressed just to ship her off to daycare by way of her daddy. Then, I just power up the trusty laptop and begin working at 8am... I miss those days! Even being tired, I can't seem to get in bed any earlier. It being Saturday night - staying up feels somehow justified but I really should climb into bed.

Enough rambling... off to bed.

It's so sad...

2005-12-29T00:59:00.000-05:00

I miss it already... Okay, I honestly missed it before I even got it all down... But maybe having photos of my decorations so handy will help fill the void...

The whole world's bloggin...

2005-12-29T00:39:00.000-05:00

And it seems, I've found myself roaming around cyberspace reading until my eyelids feel like sand paper. What am I doing typing my first entry at this late hour? Well, getting a jumpstart on a resolution of course... If the world can do it, so can I. I've found lots of journaling inspiration, new perspectives on life, holiday ideas, comfort that I'm not the only soul out here that's deeply saddened that the holiday season is "almost" over... (I'm NOT taking my tree down until the weekend!)

This, I suppose will be short and sweet - I'm here!