...Jessabells...

One Word

2012-01-09T09:56:00.000-05:00

Ok, why the big "check" mark. Well, around the blogger-sphere I have been seeing posts on one word that represents their year. Well, one to never not join a trend I have decided that my word of the year is going to be "Check". Why "check" you ask? Well, I have one more year of nursing school. In December I will have earned my bachelors in nursing. This is huge. The end is right there and I get see it. Awesome right? Well, I have a lot to do before I get there. A long list of projects, papers, exams, classes, clinical, and what not. Every time I complete them I will check them off my list. Every check mark is one more thing that is done, out of the way and getting me closer to graduation.

I also am a major list making. I make a list everyday. Nothing feels so good as checking something off my list. Unfortunately, I never check off my entire list each day and am always adding to it.

So what is your "word" this year?

Ahh..a break

2012-01-07T08:47:00.000-05:00

Hey, I have some catching up to do. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy New Year. Well I have a small break in my school schedule this week. I finished my first year nursing school in December and have already started on the second with an online research class. I finished all the assignments ahead of time so I have a week off. Whoo-hoo!
Don't know what I will do? I didn't plan on anything because, well, I had no idea I would have time to do anything. So far I change my blog up a bit. New back ground, colors, font...etc. Well, off to blogland to get some inspiration!

J.

Just a little Christmas...

2011-11-30T10:15:00.000-05:00

Right now I'm in the last three weeks of my first year of nursing school. I have papers and finals to complete and then a little break. I'm trying to get into the Christmas spirit but school is taking up all my time. So I wanted to leave you with a little bit of Christmas....

Busy day with my books

2011-10-25T09:03:00.000-04:00

Artist: Sean, age 5. (He's now almost 11 now but this is my favorite decoration).

Just want to take the time out of my busy schedule of studying, test taking and more studying to thank you all who left me sweet comments or emailed me about my bedroom makeover. Thanks so much for stopping by and taking the time to check it out.

I have a big exam today. I'm studying my butt off. Can't wait to graduate next year. 14 months left. Thank you Jesus!

Have a wonderful week.

Jessica

Bedroom Re-do!

2011-10-21T13:07:00.003-04:00

So I had 2 weeks off this summer. Odd. I took advantage of the time and decided it was time to re-do my bedroom. I spend a massive amount of time in here. I sleep, study, workout and craft in here. It was time to make my space a place that makes me happy. I totally love the transformation. I have to thank my husband and my mother for all their help. So here we go.

First off, I won 2 black and white Chevron pillow cases this summer from The Mathew Family Happenings. I love them. When I got them in the mail, it totally inspired me to re-do my room. So thanks Mary Kathryn. I heart them.

I went to my parents house for my first week off. They live down the Jersey Shore. My mother is a home decor nut. We talked all about what I should do and we went to thrift stores in the area. A set of 3 crystal candle holders caught my eye in a house in Tuckerton, NJ. A woman has a house full of antiques and crystal. My mother hates fake crystal so when I said that I liked the candle holders she went over and looked at them. They were real crystal but they were a little pricey. My mother, one never to pay full price for anything, started her haggling and bam they were now mine! Thanks to my mama! Love her. I love shiny, glittering, fancy, classy Yup,that is me. These now set off my wanting of crystals to be part of my room re-do.

So when I got home from Jersey. I went over to Lowe's and got the paint. Love Valspar High Def paint. I got myself 2 cans of Violet tinted painted. I'm not being paid by Lowe's to endorse Valspar but I truly think their paint is great. It covers so great. I got it in eggshell so that it would be easier to wipe down. I love this color. Compared to the yellow that the walls were, I feel like I'm in a different room.

The Furniture!

So I have had my bedroom furniture for 13 years already. I would have loved to get some new furniture but it wasn't in the budget. The original color was a distressed black stain then I whitewashed them back in 2000. Hubby did my the biggest favor and sprayed them black and added new hardware to one of the dressers and the smaller night table. The other dresser was given to me when I moved into my house. It was painted black and when I was in Lowe's getting hardware I could find matching hardware. I have to go look in Home Depot. It's on my to-do list. God only knows when I'll do that. lol.

So the bedding. I searched online, in stores and beyond for the perfect set. At first I was going to do black and white but nothing seemed right. I went to Target to pick up something and decided to walk to the back to check out if they had anything. Sure enough to my surprise they had this lovely set. It was on clearance too. Smiles!! It was perfect. It was mine.

So in 2 weeks, I got in a mini vacation at my parents and then painted my room, painted my furniture and found bedding. I thought for sure there would be no time to finish decorating due to school. I was supposed to go back on a Sunday but the weather had different idea. Hurricane Irene decided to make a visit to the East coast. My mother's town was evacuated. My mother and brother from NY came up to me. My father stayed home to protect the house. I was so excited to see my mother again. 2 visits in 2 weeks.

We were supposed to get bad wind and rain in my area so the school closed for the day. We got nothing. Not complaining at all. We get enough rain and snow all year long. Instead of staying in the house my mother and I went shopping. First stop, Big Lots. We picked up this awesome lamp shade. The had the perfect lamp but for $60, I don't think so bud. Your Big Lots, not Macy's. I did find a lamp that works perfectly at Walmart for $24. That's more like it.

By the way, have you seen the stuff at Walmart from Better Homes and Garden, some of it is really nice. I got a ruffled black pillow that was BHG. We picked up so much stuff at Walmart. Curtains, a vase, flowers, crystals, small rug, pictures, bracelet holder and a frame were all purchased at Walmart. Designing on a budget. I'm not the biggest fan of Walmart but it was so worth it this time.

The Arts..

I'll always be a New York girl, I'm originally from Staten Island. A piece of me is still there, always. It was always my dream to live and work in Manhattan. Sadly, it never came true. Maybe when the kids are out of the house I'll go back and live in the city. They have plenty of hospitals to work in. I found these pictures so appropriate. I love New York, and I would love to travel to Paris. I made an Eiffel tower out of Popsicle sticks and tooth picks when I was a kid for a school project. I'll never forget that project. Guess I've been crafting for a long time?

I bought this picture of Audrey Hepburn 7 years ago at MOMA (Museum of Modern Arts in NYC) and finally I bought a frame and hung it up. Nothing like a little procrastination. I love Audrey. She was such a wonderful person. We need more Audrey's in the world.

These 3 little painting were done by my daughter. She is an artist. I love that she made them for me. In life sometimes all we can do is "Hope". I love her. She is thinking of selling some of her art on Etsy. This is nothing compared to what she does. One day I'll share it will you all. She is truly talented. I don't know where she gets it. I can't even draw a stick figure. Lol.

Well, back to my reality, nursing school. 14 more months to go!! Thank you Jesus.

Thanks so much for taking the time out of your day to visit my blog. Please feel free to leave a comment. It makes me smile. Also "like" Jessabells on Facebook. Just click the like button on the right side bar. Have a great weekend. Keep warm. It's getting cold here in Pa.

Jessica
I'm linking up to:

Help the Hungry with 50 Cent One Like=One Meal

2011-10-20T11:29:00.000-04:00

Ok, you may or may not know 50 Cent, he's a world famous hip hop artist. "Hey Shortie, it's your birthday.. we gonna party like it's your birthday.." Ok, I'm a suburban white woman, I'll stop. lol. Either way, love Fiddy, as I like to call him. Even my mother likes him.

So anyway, why am I telling you about Fiddy (50 cent)? Well the man is putting his money where his mouth is. What? For every One Like on Street King on Facebook, he will donate One Meal to the hungry. He's not asking you to donate your money, just Like Street King on Facebook. That's it folks. Please help him reach 100,000,000. Likes. Help him feed 1 million people. Please spread the word by posting it on your Facebook page, on your blog and telling your friends and family. So just click this hyperlink: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=700201358712

Thanks so much.

Jessica

Visit Jessabells on Facebook too!

Halloween is not even here yet..

2011-10-15T16:09:00.000-04:00

Here I am already thinking about Christmas. While Christmas is not my favorite holiday, as a matter of fact it is my least favorite I need to plan early. I know you're thinking what is wrong with this woman? The truth is Christmas is becoming so commercialized and stressful every year.

Last year my children literally picked out the majority of their gifts online and watched me hit the make payment button. It killed me. Gone were the days when my children would be surprised and excited to open their gifts. No need to rush down the stairs early in the morning to open the gifts. It made me so sad last year. My kids get gifts all year long and at this point expect to get whatever they want when they want it. It is my husband and I who did this to my kids. That is going to change though this year.

This year there will be no Christmas lists. Nope, not one! I don't care what they want. I want Christmas back. I want my children to put Jesus in the forefront of their thoughts this year. I want my kids to receive gifts that they didn't pick out but were purchased by my husband and I that were given thought. They will be sadly disappointed to see that their gifts will not cost hundreds either.

I will not be a prisoner to Apple, Xbox, Playstation, Sephora, and all the other brands my kids are heavily influenced by. I'm looking to Etsy this year to purchase some of my gifts, so if you have an Etsy shop, just leave me a comment below. I will definitely check it out.

It feels like a weight has been lifted off of my chest. It feels good to come out and say it and I appreciate that you took the time to read my thoughts.

Have a great week. Back to school for me. Lots of studying.

Jessica

Weigh In Wednesday

2011-10-12T12:31:00.002-04:00

Doing a quick pop in to say that today is Weigh-In Wednesday and I lost 2lbs!! I'm so happy. I will share more tomorrow. I'm supposed to be studying right now. I heart Weight Watchers right now!

Family time on the farm

2011-10-11T10:53:00.000-04:00

Sometimes the hardest thing for me is not being able to spend quality family time together. Everyone is so busy all the time. It was nice to get together with my in-laws yesterday along with my husband and 2 of my 3 kids and go apple and pumpkin picking.

Here are a few pics to enjoy.

Strawberry Acres Farm in Coplay, Pa

My family getting ready to pick some apples.

These are Matsu apples. Due to all the rain in the last couple of months they are spotted.

My daughter and husband taste testing the apples. The sign said that is was fine to sample the apples, just don't make it a meal. The apples got thumbs up from my family. I didn't taste test because my hands were full holding the box of apples and the camera.

Here is our lot. We didn't get to many because I didn't want to over do it. I did pick up baking apples at the little store at the farm but can't for the life of me remember the name of them.

My daughter pulling my son up to the pumpkin patch.

My son finding me the perfect pumpkin.

My son felt it was time to take a break so he sat on a pumpkin.

Must say that the pumpkins were all so great that it was hard to pick the perfect one. We did get 2 though. I was told recently by a patient who owns a farm that pumpkins took a bad hit this year with all the rain. Most farms were bringing in pumpkins from different states because they were not able to grow enough to size without rot.

My son and I. I just adore our time together.

This is a view of the farm store. My son is actually jumping of a bail of hay.

Thanks for stopping by.

Come back tomorrow for my first Weigh In Wednesday.

Got myself a week off of school..

2011-10-07T10:28:00.000-04:00

I have a week off of school. Very odd! I have so much to do. I'm hoping to get in a few blog posts while I'm off. I have to definitely share my bedroom makeover.

Ha! No, this is not me!

I recently re-started Weight Watchers. I originally tried WW in Feb. but with the stress of just starting nursing school it was a hard thing to keep track of. Now that I am in nursing school and I kinda got my routine down I feel I'm ready to take control of my diet again. Wish me luck. I will be sharing recipes! I always said I hate to cook but lately I love to cook. I'm cooking more than I'm baking. I cook often but lately I have been really stepping up my game and making different meals compared to the same old, same old.

Please come and visit when you can. Have a great weekend.

Jessica :)

Knock, Knock, Autumn Calling..

2011-09-22T13:58:00.001-04:00

So I am letting go of summer. Wish I could have done more than study. I'm lying. I did go down to the Jersey Shore to visit my parents and spent 5 great days there. I only spent an hour at the beach but at least I got there.

Welcome Fall...

I know it's not fall yet I know it's tomorrow, but this year I am happy to see it come for some odd reason. I think with my crazy schedule of school and studying, having the kids back to school brings me a little less guilt that I don't spend enough time with them. I'm also in a mood to clean up the entire house, bake and decorate for the holidays.

While I don't have much time to create I was able to complete a new Fall wreath for my front door. I was inspired by many blogs around the way and this is what I came up with.

I wrapped a Styrofoam wreath with olive green burlap (got it at JoAnn's). I then attached 3 flowers (Michael's) with a glue gun. Added a ribbon to hang it and viola..I got Fall wreath. I'm not impressed with it to be honest with you. It's boring and I have no time to think of what to do with it. I did though take the time to find some other great wreaths out there for you to check out. Enjoy!

Here are some great Fall ideas that I have seen throughout the web and the blogger-sphere.

On Sutton Place

Ann from On Sutton Place shared her beautiful front porch. She is truly inspiring. I love the look of the big yellow sunflowers against the navy blue door. Beautiful!!

Home Stories from A to Z

Beth from Home Stories from A to Z created this beautiful Fall wreath from yarn and felt flowers. She even has a great video tutorial on how to make felt flowers.

So this is the wreath that inspired mine. I did use burlap but I didn't make the flowers. Time constants my friends.

Craftaholics Anonymous

I adore this wreath. Linda has been in the Fall mood too I think because she has put up several Fall blog posts. Get over there and check her out!

madigan made

Tell me this is not a cool looking wreath. It is made out of, get this gold thumb tacks!! Love it. Go check it out. She also made pumpkins covered in gold thumb tacks.

Corn Husk Wreath

A beautiful corn husk wreath, handmade by Angela of The Nest Home. I adore it and I adore that is was only about $15. to make.

What I should be doing..

2011-09-06T12:57:00.000-04:00

is studying but instead I'm reading blogs. I'm never going to get A's at this point. Lol. Be back soon with some cool projects and a reveal of my new and improved bedroom makeover!

Have a great day!

Jessica

So there was a girl and she turned Sweet 16

2011-07-31T10:29:00.000-04:00

So the party was over a month ago and with my life being as it is I'm just sharing it with you now. Enjoy!

The cake and the candles. My husband constructed the candle holder. My daughter cut out letter from foam board, spray painted them black and added silver glitter. I picked up some feather boas at the dollar store and put them behind the letters. We bought tall candles at Micheals. I think this project cost us less them $30. The biggest expense was the candles.

This would be called the "nightmare cake". Seriously. The cake was supposed to be 3 tiers but the bottom tier was crushed by the weight of the top two tiers. I did put dowels in the bottom and middle section of the cake but it didn't work out. The bottom of the cake became a trifle instead. Problem solved, nope. The zebra stripes were first made out of fondant, it fell of the cake, we then proceeded to paint the stripes, again another problem averted. And the last problem, the cake was crooked. The top of the cake was iced not once but twice since because I tried to make the cake less crooked. Will say though, the cake was all gone by the end of the night. Gotta love teenagers!

The candy table. Instead of favors we decided to do a candy table. Everyone, even the adults loved the candy table. I must thank my mother for this whole set up. She really did most of the work and decorating for the party.

This is the birthday girl, Samantha, my beautiful daughter. We set up an area for photos. Beaded necklaces, feather boas and Popsicle sticks with mustaches and big red lips for fun photo opportunities. Hardly anyone stood in front of it. I think it was in the wrong spot.

The grandmothers! My mother's the blonde in the zebra stripes and my mother in law is in purple. Big thank you to my mother in law for all the cooking she did. Some of my friends finally got to try a rice ball and some really great baked ziti.

The candle ceremony was great. For those who do not know what a candle ceremony is, my daughter dedicated her candles to those that mean a lot to her. She gave a small speech about each person. The person came up and lit the candle with her. My husband and I were her first candle. We love her so much and we were so happy to be able to do this party for her.

After what seemed like the longest candle ceremony ever, my daughter finally blew out her candles. A great time was had by all and I was exhausted by the end of the night.

Next party..my daughter and I will be having a big graduation party. We graduate at the same time in a couple of years, she's in high school, I'm in college.

Thanks for stopping by!

Jessica

Morning Giggle

2011-07-28T09:51:00.000-04:00

Woke up this morning and saw this..love my crazy kids. LOL.

What do you do during a heatwave? I bake..

2011-07-22T21:05:00.000-04:00

Banana Bread that is!

When you have yourself some really ripe bananas...

you smash em all up..

add some sugar, beaten egg, vanilla, baking soda,...

and a cup and a half of flour..

mix it all up...

take a sip of sangria..

spoon mix into a buttered loaf pan,

place in hot oven....

(on an extremely hot day)

take it out of the oven an hour later you got yourself a

very delightful loaf of banana bread!

That's it! Easy right!

Yum!

Banana Bread Recipe

(I found the recipe here.)

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 1 hour

INGREDIENTS

3 or 4 ripe bananas, smashed

1/3 cup melted butter

1 cup sugar (can easily reduce to 3/4 cup)

1 egg, beaten

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 teaspoon baking soda

Pinch of salt

1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour

METHOD

No need for a mixer for this recipe. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). With a wooden spoon, mix butter into the mashed bananas in a large mixing bowl. Mix in the sugar, egg, and vanilla. Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and mix in. Add the flour last, mix. Pour mixture into a buttered 4x8 inch loaf pan. Bake for 1 hour. Cool on a rack. Remove from pan and slice to serve.

Yield: Makes one loaf.

Just some flowers..

2011-07-20T18:00:00.000-04:00

Would you believe that these flowers grow through my deck?

Sitting with my veggies, these marigolds make me smile :)

So last year I was lazy and didn't cut my hydrangea bushes back, well lets just say laziness pays. I have tons of blooms this year

I love my red lilies. I wait all year for them to bloom.

Yellow lilies, yes I like lilies. Then again..

I love all flowers!

I heart summer!! Hope you're having a great one.

Jessica

Not Giving up or better yet giving in..

2011-07-15T21:18:00.000-04:00

So when I started nursing school this past December I was given some bad news I didn't want to hear. I was told that I would have to give up things that I loved and enjoyed. I won't say that they said it to me in those exact words but that was the message. So I struggled so hard to decide what to give up and what not to give up. In reality, everything fell to the waste side and nursing school became a priority above all things, including my family.

This past June I gave my daughter a much belated and deserved Sweet 16 party (I'll put up pictures one day, they need to get edited). It wasn't big. It was in our backyard. I loved how the night went. The candle dedication service was great. I looked great. In my heart, I was happy for a few hours. I cried afterwards.
So, I know that I have to give up things I like to do, things I enjoy, but the hardest thing to do is give up your family. Everyday it is a fight to even out my time with my family and my studies. I know that in a year and a half I will be out of school. I will be able to give them the time they deserve when I am home. Truly can't wait for that day!!

I also miss doing things that make me happy. Does blogging and reading blogs or crafting make you happy? It does for me. Unfortunately, I'm finding it difficult to be able to do any of those. I will not be giving up or giving in.. I refuse. What is life worth if you cannot enjoy the people and the pleasures you love? We only live once and life is short. It is a simple concept of balance. I need to find my balance between school and the rest of my life.

So please don't think I'm gone, I'm not. I check in here and there. On weeks when I'm not bogged down with tons of studying I will post or read blogs. Thanks for sticking with me. Thank you for all those who blog so I have something to read to get my mind off of school work.

Continue to have a great summer. BTW, go see Harry Potter, I saw it today on IMAX 3D and it was AWESOME!

Jessica
P.S. I listened to my professors lecture on my recorder hooked up the stereo in the car all the way to the movie theater to make up for the time spent watching the movie. My daughter and her boyfriend got to learn about asthma medications. LOL.

One More Week Left..

2011-06-18T22:52:00.000-04:00

Just one more week left until my daughters Sweet Sixteen Party. I must admit as much as I'm happy to be giving this girl a party I have so much school work and exams this coming week that I am exhausted just thinking about all that has to be done. I pray that God gives me some extra space in my brain this week to absorb everything I need to know and keep on top of all the party plans.

I can't wait to show everyone my dress I picked up today. I got it at JCPenney for like $30. I love it!! I never wear dresses but today I was determined to find one that I did not look horrible in. I had to try on many but I got one I truly adore.

Well, much more to come! I will be starting the baking of the cakes tomorrow. I pray that the cake comes out great. It has been a while since I decorated a cake.

Hope you have a wonderful Sunday.

Happy Father's Day to all the daddies out there.

J.

Giveaway Lead for New Sewing Book..

2011-06-13T15:54:00.001-04:00

Take a look at this cool video for the new book 1,2,3 Sew. After your done viewing the trailer go over to thelongthread.com and enter to win one of the 5 book giveaways! Good Luck!

Totally swamped with school work this week. Have a great week everyone!

J.

Sometimes strangers surprise you

2011-06-05T09:48:00.000-04:00

So I entered a giveaway on Tatertots and Jello a while back for a gift certificate for Smidge and Pinch. I wrote in my entry that I needed to win this giveaway badly due to my daughter's upcoming Sweet Sixteen and that we are on such a tight budget. Well, guess what? I didn't win. Instead of winning the giveaway, I was contacted by Theresa, owner of Smidge and Pinch. She offered to send me some great items for my daughters party. (Jaw dropping moment for me, I couldn't believe a complete stranger wanted to help me.) Yup, she wanted to help make my daughters party just a little bit more special.

Well, I must tell you it was a such a surprise and there was no way that I was going to turn down her offer. I went to her website and all I have to say is Wow. Smidge and Pinch has really great party items and honestly the prices are really great too. So what did I choose?

Zebra Gable Boxes

I will be using these great little boxes to put cookies in for party favors. I will be putting a small circle that says, "Thank You".

Sweet 16 Rings

How cute are these rings? I will be giving them out to the girls at the party. It will be fun seeing them all dancing around with the rings on their pinky fingers. I also will be giving them hot pink feather boas. So fancy, Lol.

I am so thankful for Theresa at Smidge and Pinch. How awesome is she to help me with my daughters party? Insert Applause here please.

With that I would like you to go over to Smidge and Pinch and check it out. Also, Theresa adds new items all the time so to keep up on the happenings over at Smidge and Pinch like her Facebook page @ Smidge and Pinch.

I want to also share more items you can find at Smidge and Pinch. Please go check it out and bookmark the site for your next party supply needs.

Cute cupcake pics! Cupcake cups! I heart cherries!

Well, I could sit here and put the entire site on my blog but I just don't have the time and well you really need to go check Smidge and Pinch yourself.

Thanks again Theresa.

Have a great week everyone. I have tons of studying to do so I won't be around for the rest of the week but I'll be checking in here and there.

Jessica

Beautiful dresses I found on Pinterest

2011-05-29T19:27:00.005-04:00

Source: glitterandpearls.com via Jessabells on Pinterest

Thought I share some of the things I found on Pinterest.com today. I just started using this site and got to say so far I am liking it. I have more to learn though as usual.

So how about that ruffled dress, Wow, beau-ti-ful.

Source: anthropologie.com via Jessabells on Pinterest

So classic and simple but still so beautiful. I personally wouldn't look good in this dress because of my body shape but I still adore it.

Source: dress911.com via Jessabells on Pinterest

I could see myself wearing this pretty black dress for my daughter's Sweet Sixteen. I like that it is not tight on the bottom and is can hide my wide hips. Isn't the top cute too with the knot tie instead of a bow.

I could put a hundred dresses up but I do not think you would like that. LOL.

If you want to find me on Pinterest, just click Jessabells.

Thanks to everyone that stopped by and took a copy of the Beach Subway Art Printable. Hope you enjoy it!

Till then,

Jessica

Free Beach Subway Art Printable

2011-05-25T11:43:00.010-04:00

* I know the piece doesn't come out as clear on Blogger but when you click on it you see the bigger version and all the words are clear. If you would like me to send you this piece via email please leave me your email in the comment section. Thanks! Jess!

Hey there! Well I found sometime in my really busy schedule to make a piece of Art, Subway Art that is! I really needed to do something fun that did not have anything to do with school or my daughter's upcoming sweet 16 party. This was my first attempt at making a subway art piece and while I know it might not be perfect it is the best I could do. I am giving it out as a free printable, so please copy it if you would like. I plan on printing it out on card stock and putting it in a frame. I don't know if I will ever make it to the beach this summer but there is always hope. Have a great week. Hope to share more soon.

Jessica

Linking up with:

Also at: http://tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/2011/05/weekend-wrap-up-party-and-lee-la-la.html

http://sumossweetstuff.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g241/summerandrus/Blog%20Graphics/marketyourselfcopy.png"/>

Jessabells now has a Facebook page!

2011-05-22T12:10:00.002-04:00

I'm totally Facebook junkie and today in my spare time I finally got around to making a Facebook page for Jessabells. Please like me if you'd like!

Have a great week!

Jessica

Are there any sponsors out there that would be willing to help a girl have her first giveaway?

2011-05-20T10:49:00.002-04:00

I looking to host my first giveaway. I enter so many and have won a few so I think it is time to host a giveaway of my own. The only thing is, I don't know what to giveaway and could really use a sponsor for one. If anyone is willing to help out I would gladly appreciate it. I will promote your blog, store, Facebook page or Twitter account for you on my blog and spread the word as best as I can. You can contact me via email at jspara324@gmail.com or leave a message on this post.

Thanks so much!

Jessica

Oh my gosh..

2011-05-16T10:23:00.007-04:00

First off, I would like to thank everyone that wished me well on my exam. I passed it by the skin of my teeth but at least I passed. I was so happy to have the past 6 days off of school. Tomorrow I start the summer session of school and I opened up the pacing schedule for 1 of my 3 classes and all I have to say is Oh my gosh!! Well, it was nice knowing you summer. :(

I do have some great news, my daughter is having her delayed Sweet 16 party in June. She turned 16 in January but we decided that due to expenses and me starting nursing school at the time that it would be easier to have it in June, in the backyard.

We started our planning yesterday. Hot pink and zebra stripes are her favorite and will be vomited all over the backyard. Believe it or not, a lot of my decor and party ideas are from fellow bloggers.

House of Whimsy

We have decided to use sting lights to light the backyard. My inspiration comes from House of Whimsy. M.L.'s daughter had an outdoor wedding and used string lights and I think it looks fabulous. You must check out M.L.'s blog. She is super talented!

Shindig Parties To Go

A really cute idea came from Shindig Parties to go. We will be using hot pink white chocolate for our Oreos. Get it hot pink, black and white (zebra stripes.) LOL.

I will be making her cake. I will be combining two cakes. The top and bottom layer will have this ruffle look, while the middle layer will have the zebra layer. No I will not be using the bow on top of the cake.

My husband is even getting into the decor with a candle holder for her 16 candles. I can't wait until he starts.

Thinking this would be nice as a center piece? Not the big R. I'll use fake candles of course. Her name is Samantha, but we will cut it down to Sam or not even use any words.

Source

My daughter is super excited and she really deserves a great party. She is a great student and daughter. I hope it all turns out fabulous!

So between books and studying, I'll be into to fabric, glitter and zebra stripes. I can't wait to share. Also, I'm looking for some ideas for party favors. Any ideas are welcome as always!

I'll share more as I work on it. Have a great week!

Jess

It's crunch time!

2011-05-09T09:22:00.002-04:00

So glad that this semester has decided to come to a close. I will be spending the better half of my day studying for tomorrow nights final exam. Whoo-hoo! I then will have off for, get this, 6 whole days!!!!!! Nursing school is a killer and I commend all nurses out there for having to trudge through nursing school to get to where they are now.

Hope everyone has a great week!

Jessica

To the all the mama's out there...

2011-05-08T12:06:00.001-04:00

This is not what I should be doing but can't help it.

2011-05-04T10:35:00.004-04:00

I should be studying for my final tomorrow but it is getting kinda boring. Seriously, I needed a break.

Anyway, little by little I have been cleaning up the back deck, yard and screen porch. I have decided since I will be spending my summer in school and studying that I would concentrate on the backyard, deck and screen porch. I want to make these areas a place that I can study but still get to enjoy the warm weather outdoors.

So first step, pick a color scheme. I have decided to go with navy blue and white. Why? Well my screen porch is painted tan and the moldings are white, the table and chairs on the deck are gray. By the way, I'm loving gray right now. I think navy blue and white would combine both spaces really nicely, since they are right next to each other.

I'll share pics as I go but first I want to share some great ideas I think will look great. I'm hoping to find a lot of great pieces at yard sales since I'm on a tight budget thanks to the ever increasing gas prices! Help Us Obama!! (Sorry, I really need him to work on this problem.)

source

How about this cute bamboo weave outdoor fabric for outdoor pillows?

source

I really like this fabric but wish it had a white background and blue coral.

Source

Love the look of outdoor curtains but won't be paying the Ballards Design price for them. LOL. I'll just make my own or better yet get drop cloths and hang them! By the way, how relaxing does that look.. ahhh, in my dreams. Thinking I'll need one of those lounge chairs too! lol.

source

How great is this painting? I'm going to have to have my artist daughter copy it and maybe make a second one with a different shell.

I better stop now and get back to studying. I love to look at home decor and design and could do it all day if I had time.

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog post. Have a great week!

jess

Today, thank a soldier.

2011-05-02T09:34:00.003-04:00

I, like you remember where I was on 9/11. I will never forget that day.

Last night's news of the death of Osama Bin Laden by U.S. soldiers further proves that we as country will not give up and will not back down to cowards who wish to put fear into our hearts and minds. I couldn't be more proud to live in this country.

So today and everyday I will be thankful for the U.S. soldiers that fight for our freedom.

Thank you so much!

We heart U , youtube!

2011-04-13T23:11:00.003-04:00

I don't know about you but, I don't know what we ever did without YouTube. As a student, I have went on there for help in learning. I'm a visual and auditory learner. Give me a book and I cringe. Here is why I truly love YouTube.com :

My daughter has been asking me how to do a fishtail braid and honestly I have no idea how to, so what do I do, hop onto Youtube and watch a video. Thumbs up.

This video is for a waterfall braid. I think it looks so cute.

By the way this women has so many wonderful videos on how to do little girls hair styles. She makes it all look so easy.

So this winter I was pissed when I saw that garlic was $4.49 a pound at my local grocer. I swore I would never buy garlic again and that I was growing my own. So on to Youtube I went to find out how to plant garlic:

I now have two long planting containers full of garlic. I can't wait to harvest it when it when it is ready. By the way, for all you garlic growers out there like me, here's a great video on garlic braiding.

I don't think there is anything out there that you can't watch a video on. Along with learning, I do enjoy youtube for the entertainment it has too.

Thanks for stopping by,

My Adult Crush...

2011-04-06T14:54:00.012-04:00

Swoon!

I know, I'm married. He's gay. I heart Nate Berkus anyway.

Love his show, love his style, love his charm, love his big blue eyes!

Click http://www.thenateshow.com/ to see his show's website.

One day I'm hoping to find time to go see his show. Wishing I had a break and had time to travel into the city to be part of the audience. I wish I wasn't so camera shy because I would love some great advice from Nate on decorating my home. So who is your favorite designer or adult crush?

Springtime Smiles,

So where am I???

2011-03-27T19:29:00.002-04:00

You might wonder why I leave comments on people's blogs but I don't update my own? Well, the truth is I'm so super busy with nursing school that I don't have time for anything fun in my life so I live through others and read their blogs and wish that one day I can create and blog again. I know, that was a long run on sentence. LOL. If you need to would like to leave me a message, please do. I check in often during the week, I also can be contacted at jspara324@gmail.com. Til then many blessings and have a great time creating!

Boo!

2010-10-20T09:04:00.004-04:00

Boo to U!

I have been so incredibly busy the past few months since school has started that my blog is taking a back burner to my life. Sadly, so has a lot of other things that I enjoy too.

We are having our annual Halloween party on Saturday and I still have not put out one decoration. I know that Friday I will be scrambling to get it all done. Wish me luck. LOL. We just purchased a new camera, so I will be able to take some great pics of the party, in which I hope to share with the blogging world.

Until then, Have a Happy Halloween!

Jessica

Now that we are out of triple digits...

2010-09-17T09:03:00.002-04:00

Christmas is now a reality to me because there are only 99 days left until the big day!

(No, this is not my home. LOL.)

I know, I'm insane. Summer is not even officially over yet. I am already planning on what I have to buy and what cookies to bake for this years cookie party.

Well, just wanted to share this little tidbit of info with you. Have a great day and whatever is left of summer.

Your friend,

Jessica

ahhhh!! I did the craziest thing.

2010-09-07T10:32:00.003-04:00

I deleted my blog. Yup, I deleted it but now I'm back. After putting up my last post I was thinking that it is going to be really hard for me to blog now that school has started again. I thought it best to just delete my blog. It is hard for me to come up with things when I am so busy studying and taking care of the kids.

I continued to read blogs on Google Reader but I really love my blog. Silly as it may seem but it holds some of my memories.

I may not have a ton of followers. I don't even know if anyone would miss me but for me, I need it my blog, I want my blog. I want to share when I have time.

So I'm back!!

Jessica

Back to Reality.

2010-08-27T23:22:00.004-04:00

Well, that time has come for my children to go back to school. I was never one of those parents that were in a rush for them to go back but this year I was happy to see the first day back to school to finally arrive.

Loving their enthusiasm

My lovely children started school on Wednesday. They were thrilled. NOT!! lol. They now have to wear uniforms; not cool in their minds. I think they look good. My children were not wardrobe rule breakers so I do feel for them. It will make it easier on them in the morning to select what they would like to wear and cheaper for me in the long run but I would rather they wore their own style. My daughter started to accessorize with jewelry to make herself a little more unique. Smart girl.

Go JTHS Football!!

Well, I will be starting my own classes on Monday at a new college. I am so happy. I am half way there!! That's what I keep telling myself. LOL.

So back to school, back to waking up early, doing homework with my son. Time for fall to show up and High School Football games to begin (My son is part of the marching band and my daughter's boyfriend is a football player), pumpkin picking and Halloween costumes. Time to think about, dare I say it... Christmas.

Honestly, I'm not ready to give up summer just yet. I'm glad for the warm weather this weekend. While I love the colors if autumn, I love the warm weather of spring and summer.

Til then,

Jessica

My daily inspirations!

2010-08-10T10:26:00.003-04:00

Every morning, I get up,pour my coffee, and sit down at my desk, turn on the computer and read, read, and read blogs. I may not blog as often as I like but I do love to read and love when I get inspired to do something.

Case in point : Cottage and Vine

Rene recently painted her boys bedroom hardwork floors white. I totallly love it. My front room, which is a walkway and where my computer is has ugly hardwood floors that I have been begging my husband to do something about. Well, after seeing how her sons rooms came out I am truly inspired to paint my ugly hardwood floors white. I must tell you this has kept me up for the past few nights just thinking about how it will look. How will I paint it without getting dog hair in the paint? etc.. etc.. etc.. I have decided that I will take on this project once the kids go back to school. Thank to Rene who has given such great directions and advice on how to paint wood floors it will make it so much easier on me.

On to the next lovely lady that brightens my day.

Presenting Mary Lou from House of Whimsy

Okay, 1. She is a sweetheart. 2. I love her mother/daughter relationship with her daughters. It is so sweet. 3. She is so creative and I don't even think she tries hard. She just has that natural born talent. 4. I'm loving that she is sharing all the details of her daughters upcoming nuptials with the blogworld. I love the style and theme of this wedding. Right up my alley. Check out how great everything is coming out. MaryLou and her daughter are doing a lot of the work themseleves and I'm truly impressed. Wish I were a guest.

Every few days the next lady puts up a post that I truly have to put down my cup of coffee and swallow whatever is in my mouth because if I don't it will be all over the screen. She truly cracks me up with her funny, sarcastic take on her life.

Introducing: Sasha, the Lemonade Makin Mama

While my children are not homeschooled, I enjoy hearing her talk about homeschooling and blaming her crazyiness on homeschooling. She really is a great mom and wife. She is also really crafty and every once in a while shares some great project ideas.

I have many other wonderful blogs that I would love to share with you but I can't put them all on this one post. It would take you all day to read this one post, let alone visit all the wonderful blogs. I share some more again soon.

Enjoy your day!

Jessica

Just a little mommy and me time..

2010-08-05T10:56:00.009-04:00

My son and I went down to the Jersey Shore (not Seaside Heights), for a little R&R. My parents live down the Jersey Shore and welcomed my youngest son and I down for 5 days. It was a very much needed break from reality.

I took my son to the beach. It was the first time for my son at the beach. He loved playing in the sand and jumping in and out of the water. We even tried to dig to China.

My parents were so good to him, sometimes a little too good. Everyday he went for ice cream and swam in the pool. They took him to a small amusement park and came home with more than an arms full of prizes.

It was a nice break away from the video games in my eyes. He and his father are obsessed with video games. It was a great time for my son and I to be together and have fun with each other. It is hard to have fun when you are so busy trying to keep house and raise kids.

I also got to sneak away and go to Staten Island, NY to see my friends. It was so great! Had a blast with my girlfriends for a few hours.

On our way home my son and I had a fabulous lunch in South Philly. He was homesick so we had to leave right away. I wish we could have stayed longer and walked around the town.

Well back to reality now, school starts for both the kids and I in a few short weeks.

By the way, I'm down 8 pounds. Yippee!

Til then,

Jessica

Oh, P.S.: I'd like to congratulate my dearest friend Lisa and her family at http://lisabeesponderings.blogspot.com/ on the birth of her son Justin. Wishing you many Blessing!

She's so sweet!

2010-07-28T23:45:00.004-04:00

Just give her some sidewalk chalk and a clean driveway to draw on and you off she'll go off drawing. Today is was a heart with wings saying that she loves me. I love her too!

My daughter is a little artist. She loves to draw, paint and really anything that makes her creativity come through. She never liked to color in coloring books. She preferred copy paper and pencils. I don't know what the future has for her but art is definitely a love of hers. Who knows?, she might one day be the next Monet, Michealangelo or Walt Disney. Hmm?

And here I thought I would just surrender....

2010-07-23T23:11:00.002-04:00

But NO! I have to see myself in a picture and totally hate the way I look. I know I am sounding crazy right now but the truth is I was all set to give up on the thought of ever losing weight and learning to accept me for me until I went to Hershey park with my family and in laws.

I took a picture with a Hershey Kiss and my sister- in-law. I couldn't believe what I was looking at when I saw it. My stomach was hanging out of my shirt (major muffin top), my butt looked huge and I have 3 chins.

Where did Jessica go and why was I accepting this? I have completely let myself go because I was afraid of what I would have to do to lose the weight and feel like a woman again. It is easier to hide in sweat pants and t-shirts.

I took a stand and put my self on a diet. I am eating healthy and working out. I will not let this weight that has taken my body prisoner for the past 5 years have control over me anymore.

I am happy to say that after a week and a half I have so far lost six pounds. I am not starving myself and I'm not killing myself working out either. I would like to continue to lose the weight and not burn myself out quickly.

What I am so proud of is not just my decision, but my family's decision to support me. My daughter workouts with me and really is like a coach and will not allow me to whine. My children are not liking all the healthy food but they are not complaining as much as I would think either.

I am hoping to report more of my weight loss next week and to incorporate a little of it in my blog too. If any of you have any advice or great recipes please feel free to share them with me. I really would appreciate it.

Till next time,

Jessica

2010-07-12T20:31:00.003-04:00

Oh crafty peoples, a really nice blogging mom, Samster's Mommy is having a Tutu drive for a good cause. Dontated Tutu's will be sent to hospitals for little girls and boys that are very ill to have for playtime. Just click on the button above to read about the Tutu drive and how you can help. Time is running out and it would be great if she can send out as many Tutu's as she can.

Thanks!

Jessica

Dishing it Party with Serenity Now!

2010-07-09T02:13:00.011-04:00

I'm joining in Dishing it Party at Serenity Now. This month's party questions are on summer reading! I love to read and due a very busy school schedule I haven't been able to read. I, luckily was able to get some reading in this summer and hope to continue since my school schedule is now back to part time.

Right now I am in the middle of reading The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larson. This was a book club selection for the month of July by the book club I am in with friends in my town. So far I am bored with this book but I have hopes that it will get better.

I have recently taken an interest in the Twilight Saga. "About Time", my daughter said. So anyway, we saw Eclipse on the fourth of July since we celebrated the day before. I am a few chapters in but will get more into the book once I finish my book club book. I think I'll finish this book before the next movie comes out hopefully.

As for the rest of my summer readings, it will consist of reading two history text books for the next 5 weeks while I'm taking a History class online. I must tell you, it is boring and I'd rather be reading my books but at least I am reading something other then school books the entire summer.

Amanda's questions!

~What genre of literature makes you want to pick up a book and read (biographies, chick lit, Christian fiction, historical fiction, etc.)?

Memoirs are my favorite. I just finished Angela's Ashes, which took me no joke 2 years to finish. I started reading it before I started school but then didn't get to pick it up until this past May.

~What are your favorite magazines?

I like House Beautiful, Good Housekeeping, Martha of course!

~If you had to be stuck on a desert island with any fictional character, who would you choose?

I'm not sure. How about Channing Tatum from Dear John? He's not bad on the eyes at all and he's strong enough to get the coconuts down off the trees. lol.

~How do you make time to escape into a good book?

I try to read at night when everyone is settled down watching TV or I try to even to read while the kids are in the pool.

~What's your favorite place to get your books?

My mom. lol. She usually passes her books down to me. I have a box full. I recently got my book club book online at Barnes and Noble, used, cheap and in great condition.

~What's next on your "to-read" list?

Tis from Frank McCourt, the second book after Angela's Ashes. Water for Elephants, again in my pile of books waiting for me.

A Re-cap of my weekend past

2010-07-09T01:14:00.003-04:00

My nephew taking his first steps!

My son swinging his baby cousin at the park.

My son trying to win the watermelon contest.

The fireworks from the back of my house.

These were just a small amount of wonderful things that took place last weekend. I was so happy to have my family and friends celebrate the holiday with me and my family. Just wanted to share! Hope you all had a wonderful July 4th weekend.

Independence Day Wreath

2010-06-26T10:44:00.005-04:00

I took an hour out of my busy but boring little life and made this cute little wreath for the Fourth of July. I purchased the wreath for 10 cents at a thrift store. I had the rest of the material hanging around in my craft area. I recycled a pair of old jean into strips that I tied around the wreath. I wish I would have had more stars but I'm running low on everything.

If I don't post from now to the fourth, I hope everyone has a fun and safe Fourth of July!

I'm linking up to:

Click and check out all the other crafters linking up some great Fourth of July ideas!

Nothing like a little spray paint to make it perfect..

2010-06-22T12:42:00.013-04:00

I have a confession, I can't spray paint to save my life. I'm a disaster. So all these projects were spray painted by my husband while I watched. I tried to do it myself but it was not pretty. Maybe if there is a class on spray painting I would figure it out but for now all spray painting projects are going to my husband. lol.

~Before~

Wooden Key

I found this key at a thrift store.

I think it is so cool. Only $4.00. I had to

have it. I saw potential for this key.

~After~

I had sprayed the key Ivory. Yes, I sprayed it.

I did a horrible job and it was not the color I really

had wanted. When I put the key up to the wall it did

not look good against the wall color. Black was my second

choice. My husband gladly sprayed it for me.

My husband put some small hooks along the

bottom of the key so that we could hang

our keys. I hung it by the front door. It really

has helped us believe it or not. We always know

where are keys are now. Perfect!

~Before~

Little Birdies

I found these little birdies for a dollar each

at Dollar General. I didn't like the color and

they looked really cheap. Some white

spray paint and now they are perfect!

~After~

My little birdies now sit on top of the stove,
watching me cook wonderful meals for my

family. I sprayed them with satin paint, which

makes it easier for me to clean them.

~Before~

Lady Joy

Lady Joy has been a beautiful statue that has

been watching over my garden for a few years now

but the sun and rough weather has taken its toll

on her, so I gave her a little make over.

~After~

Lady Joy is now beautiful and watching

over my front yard. The red lilies that

surround her will be up in August.

I can't wait!

Until I post again, many blessings!

Jessica

Yummy, Yummy Banana Cream Pie!

2010-06-03T10:46:00.013-04:00

Yesterday I went to the Farmers Market and a man was shouting,"Bag of Bananas-$1." Hello, I jumped right on that and bought 2 bags. Well to my surprise the bananas were pretty much ripened and about to go bad.

I knew that I had to make something with all these bananas and fast. Banana cream pie can first in my mind. Easy to make, no baking whatsoever and I made it in less then 15 minutes. So I thought I would post how I made it. I can't wait to have some tonight with my family.

Ingredients-

Graham Cracker Pie Crust- I bought a premade pie crust.
Small Pudding Mix- I used banana cream but you can use vanilla or chocolate too.
2 cups of milk for the pudding mix
3 ripened medium sized bananas
1 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
Nilla wafers- to decorate

Add 2 cups of milk to the pudding mix and whisk for a few minutes. Put in the fridge for 5 minutes to thicken.

Slice up bananas

Add heavy cream and confectionery sugar together and turn on the beater until thick.

Nice Creamy consistency! Perfect and yummy too.

Time to layer pie!

Add a layer of pudding.

Add a layer of bananas. These bananas are so sweet.

Put a layer of whipped cream. I surrounded the edges with Nilla wafers and two in the middle for decoration. You can crumble them too and sprinkle on top.

Put in the fridge and let chill, then serve.

Enjoy!

Today I'm a happy mama.

2010-05-23T16:56:00.004-04:00

Today my son Frankie and my daughter Samantha had their Holy Confirmation. It was a beautiful ceremony with my children, husband, extended family and the congregation of our church. I pray that my children continue on with their faith in Jesus for the rest of their lives. I hope as parents we have led them to the right path and taught them enough about Jesus for them to not forget what he did for us and to continue to allow God's love and word into their hearts and mind. I am so truly blessed with my beautiful family. Days like today remind me why I work so hard.

God Bless and Many Blessing to All!

Give it up for Friday!! Whoo-hoo!

2010-05-21T09:09:00.003-04:00

I'm all smiles here in Pa. Today's forecast is 86 and sunny!! I don't know about you but I'm a big Grey's Anatomy fan. Last night's season finale was a two hour show and it was fantastic. It kept me in shock the whole way through. I'm a nut. I screamed at one point, "Don't you shoot my Marc!". My husband was sitting next to me and shook his head. He thinks I'm a looney but I have the hots for Eric Dane who plays Dr. McSteamy aka Dr. Marc Sloan. LOL. Well, I'm working on some projects that I hope to share on the blog next week. Enjoy your weekend and enjoy your day where ever you are!

Many Blessings,
Jessica

Ahh! A sigh of relief.

2010-05-17T09:16:00.002-04:00

Well I did it, I made it through the entire semester. Passed all my classes and made it through alive. Welcome Summer! I have so much to do. I have been reading blogs all weekend and have some great ideas but first I have to get my house back in working order before I start any projects. I have 2 online classes for the summer so I have plenty of time to work on things I want to do. Yippee for me! You have no idea how excited I am to work on my home and to do some crafting. Well, let me get off the soapbox and get working on some things. Chow!

2010-04-14T09:33:00.001-04:00

Happy Spring!

I'll be blogging often after finals in May. Until then many Blessings!

2010-03-15T08:58:00.003-04:00

Hey I may not be able to post much due to school right now but I still want to wish everyone a Happy St. Patrick's Day. Just remember everyone is Irish on St. Patrick's Day!

I have the blues..

2010-02-21T09:20:00.002-05:00

Yup, I have the winter time blues. I'm not a big fan of winter and really hate when it comes around every year. I wish I lived in a warmer climate. The snow doesn't seem to be melting fast enough for me. Between snow and all the studying I have been doing I am truly bummed. My house is a mess because I don't have the time to focus on it. I like to keep my house tidy and organized and right now neither is happening. Oh, I long for the green grass, pretty flowers, leaves on trees, 70 degree weather and my gardening gloves. For now I will have to just have to keep the images of spring in my head. What is a girl to do??

Blessings,

Jessica

2010-02-13T10:33:00.001-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Still around sort of.

2010-02-07T17:37:00.003-05:00

Hey, I get on here everyday and read some blogs or at least try too. I have been so busy with school that getting anything done but the everyday things have been difficult. Today, I finally took down my Christmas swag and put up my Valentine's Day Heart Wreath. Yah, week before V-day. lol. Tonight I plan on sewing up some hearts from red felt I had gotten at a Thrift store when I was down at my mother's. I got like 3 yards of red felt for .50 cents. Wish my town or even a town near me had a thrift store. I have to go all the way into Allentown, which is the big shopping area where I live to go to Sally's. I just never seem to have the time to go there either. Just to let you know, my classes are going good. I am more focused this semester and have been really on top of my studies. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for an A. Well, I hope to post the pics of the project I'm doing tonight if I have time. Thanks for everyone's kind words and support. They really mean a lot to me.

Til then,

Jessica

My Ghetto Greeting Farm Card.

2010-01-25T17:48:00.004-05:00

I will apologize for this card but it was made in a rush. This card needed to be done by 6pm cst and it is 5:48 est. So ya I have an hour but I really don't. This week at The Greeting Farm they will be giving away free digi images but you have to make a card with them in order to get the next free digi image. I love free things so I'm jumping right on this.

I made it in!

2010-01-21T17:32:00.003-05:00

I want to thank everyone who wished me the best for my spring semester. I truly appreciate it. Right now I am finishing off my pre-requirements to get into nursing school. Well I have some great news, I went to the college I am interested in going to nursing school and I was accepted into the program. I will start in December this year. I am so happy right now even though I have tons of work to do before I even start nursing school. Nursing schools are so competitive to get into and costly too. I decided to go with a school that offers a bachelor's degree in Nursing giving myself more opportunity after graduation and in my Nursing career. I intend to go for a Master's Degree in the future.
After meeting with the Nursing Advisor she told me that I needed to take one more Art class. Okay I'm thinking I can't draw or paint what should I do until she said Papermaking. Papermaking!!! I would love to learn how to make my own paper. So this summer for 6 days I will be learning to make paper! I promise to share my experience with all of you and maybe, just maybe make some for a giveaway.
Well off to study math. I'm hoping to make some V-day decor this weekend. I have been looking through so many blogs and I have so many great ideas.

Jessica

PS-please keep the people of Haiti in your prayers. They need them right now. God Bless.

It won't leave my head, guess I was paying attention.

2010-01-12T00:13:00.002-05:00

This week at church we had a fill in pastor since my church is yet again without a pastor. I love to listen to the gospel and to the sermon that follows. I always try to take something out of it and go with it for the week. Well this week the pastor was going on and on and on and on. I thought I was going to fall asleep and my neck was starting to hurt just keeping it up. Well, I did though come out of church with a better sense of who I am what what my job is. God gave me the job of wife, mother, daughter, friend, student and woman. It is my job to do all of these jobs as best as I can and to continue to work to be the best at them. Sometimes we forget our purpose and why we are in the situations we are in. God felt we are the best person for the job and it is the job he assigned us.
I'm starting up school again on Friday. I am trying reallly hard to stay positive about this next semester. It is going to be really hard. I know that God would not have given me this opportunity to go back to school after all this time if he didn't feel I couldn't do it. I will be trying my hardest to get good grades and be the best student I can be.

On to other news, I got my basement cleaned up and all ready to go for some crafting!! Whoo-hoo! The basement and all its clutter was blocking my creative abilities or aka- my mojo!
I'm hoping between studying to get some crafting done. I will be posting them when I complete them but beware they will be few and far between until the end of the semester. So don't give up on my blog, check in every once and a while. As a matter of fact become a follower so that you can get updates on your dashboard when I post.

TTYL gators,

Jessica

BRRRRRR!!!! It's cold..

2010-01-09T11:16:00.002-05:00

Hope everyone is keeping warm. Please keep in your prayers those who are homeless or without heat. My heart aches for them right now. I hope they find a warm place during this awful cold weather.

I will be working on getting things done in my home before school starts up next Friday. Have a great weekend.

Jessica

Seeing Stripes

2010-01-05T21:33:00.009-05:00

My daughter wanted to re paint her room teal and she wanted zebra stripes to be incorporated into her room. She is almost 15 so I had to really over look her re do because it would look like a zoo if it were up to my daughter. She is very creative and well she can go overboard a bit. I agreed that she could paint her walls teal but only the bottom half. We live in a Cape Cod style home and her room is on the second floor. Her walls slant inward. The top half we painted white. I thought I would be dizzy if she painted it all teal. The color came out great. I would show you a pic but her room is not 100% done yet. Here is a pic of the color on the wall.

Since we knew we were going to paint I decided to make some of her decor for Christmas. It was a big surprise since she doubted that I would make her pillows for her bed. Hubby took me to Joann's and I got zebra striped fabric for pillows. I made her three throw pillows for her bed. We will be purchasing a black comforter (not really sure how it will look?) and teal sheets for her white bed. Instead of getting a zebra striped comforter I think throw pillows and a throw blanket in zebra stripes is better. She can always change out the zebra stripes for something out eventually. It is also a KISS (keep it simple stupid) way of not vomiting zebra stripes.
While at Joann's I was roaming through the aisles when I came upon this wonderful big paper mache S. I knew right away that it had to be hers. I also for some odd reason knew exactly what I wanted to do with it. I ran over to the scrapbooking section. Since my daughter is so out there (art wise) I thought it need to have a scrappy look to it. I just want to share a quick little pic of my daughter and I on Christmas Day. She is just so beautiful and so smart too. I am truly blessed.
Well Christmas came and went and she loved it all!! I'm so happy that she did. Sadly, it is the only crafty thing I have done in a long while. I really need to get a fire under my bum and do some more. Creating makes me so happy I really should be doing it often.

Thanks for dropping by..

Jessica

Just a tip!

2010-01-05T21:30:00.002-05:00

Always check my sidebar! I will be posting my giveaway leads on the sidebar to the right. I just love giveaways and most giveaways will give you an extra chance if you put it up on your blog. Okay, easy for me I guess. If I don't win I would hope one of my fellow bloggers do! Best of Luck!

Happy 1st week of January and a Giveaway lead

2010-01-04T08:56:00.002-05:00

Good day all! It is Monday. I had a wonderful time this morning getting the kids all ready for school. The house is so quiet. Hmm..what to do first?? Blogging..lol. Yup. Later on today or tomorrow most likely I will share with you the gifts I made my daughter for Christmas. I didn't take pics because I was afraid she would see them on the computer but now that the holiday is over I'm sure she won't mind. Today I am going to work out. It has been a while and I'm sure that I will be a sweaty mess but it's freezing out and I rather sweat then be cold.

Well I'm sure your dying to find out what the giveaway lead is well go over to Lemonade Makin Mama and check it out. Sasha is such a great lady, mama and wife. She is also so funny. Sasha cracks me up.

Kick the 1st week of 2010 right and have a great time doing it! Oh and I know it is just so cold everywhere so stay warm.

Jessica

Whoo-hoo, the holiday is over and I'm a winner!

2010-01-02T14:57:00.008-05:00

Hey Happy New Year everyone. I hope you all had a great New Years Eve and Day! May you have many blessings for the New Year!

I am overjoyed that the holiday is over. I am exhausted.I took down the tree and all the trimmings yesterday. Now the house looks blah with all my old things back in place. I have to find new things to make me smile. We will be re painting my living room again. Last year we painted it a golden yellow and it looks horrible. I don't know what I was thinking. I even bought maroon curtains that are way to short. I must tell you that I have tons of windows in my living room and they are all different sizes. Next time I'm getting long curtains. I can't really stand my living room. I have no enthusiasm or vision for decorating that room. I will post pics soon to show you and hopefully you can all give me some input.

Christmas went great and so did New Years and now that it is over I am going to try to drop the weight. I have been wanting to lose it for a while now but I knew that with the holidays I would never succeed. I have gradually started to cut down my servings and I have been trying to make better food decisions. My one trick is to chew bubble gum when I feel that I have to eat which is all the time. I love, love, love food but I have no control. I have to control the urges to eat right now. On Monday I will be starting to work out. I really like Jillian Michaels. She is so great and really makes you sweat but not be in so much pain that you can't do it again the next day.

On Monday the kids are going back to school. I'm secretly smiling about it. I have so much to do while they are in school. I will be organizing my home and making a schedule for our lives. I have a really tough semester in school coming up and I'm afraid that if I don't have a schedule our lives will be a chaotic mess. I'm happy that I am going to have it all organized before I start school again. I have a huge goal this semester. I really need to do great in order to pull up my GPA. I got accepted into a great college for next fall with great prospects of getting into its Nursing Program the following spring. I am currently in a local community college but the new college is a private college. I am so excited! I never thought I could get into a private college, of course I'm going to be paying out of my nose to attend though but it is so worth it.

Since I started school I haven't read a good book other then text books. Last night I sat down in my recliner and started reading a book I bought two years ago. I have a ton of books that I would love to read. I'm just happy to know that I will be finishing one book.

I also need to let you all know that I finally won a giveaway from Count Your Beautiful Blessings!!! I love posting them for you all on my sidebar and hope that you win some goodies too. So keep checking back here, maybe one day I'll have a giveaway of my own.

Well off to stir the chicken soup on the stove. It is smelling great and is full of veggie and chicken goodness.

Till then,

Jessica

New Year's Resolutions???

2009-12-27T12:48:00.007-05:00

Well, honestly I'm not making any. I think when you put New Year's in front of Resolutions you might as write FAIL!!! I am though a big believer in goals! I make them all year long. I have big goals such as getting the basement completely organized and clean and small goals like getting an A on a test. It keeps me focused on the task at hand. You should always have long term and short term goals. I also don't beat myself up if my goals are not accomplished. Life gets in the way and sometimes it has another plan for you and the goal is just not one of them. So my goals right now are both big and small. Some goals I'm working now are long term and big such as becoming a nurse. Some are small term and small goals such as getting the house completely organized before the next semester starts. I don't want to waste this valuable time I have off of school. I have a full load of classes next semester which will not give me the time to do much with my home except general cleaning.

So this year nix the New Year's Resolutions and just make goals! Goals you know that you can handle and that you won't be disappointed if they are not fulfilled.

Have a wonderful New Year's. Stay safe and please if you are going out and drinking have a designated driver!!

Blessing for the New Year,
Jessica

It is all about Him.

2009-12-24T10:05:00.005-05:00

I wish you a Merry Christmas. God Bless you all.

Leads: Giveaway for Pearls.....Ow..la..la..

2009-12-23T10:47:00.004-05:00

Okay, I am off of school for until January 18 so most of my time is now in front of my computer and guess what I'm doing. Reading Blogs!! I should be crafting but the inspiration is worth sitting here. Anyway, when I see a lead, I will share! Plus it puts me in an for another entry sometimes. So without further ado: the giveaway lead

The French Charming- $100 g.c. to PearlNecklaceSource.com. Wow, what an giveaway!! Go and read up on what you need to do in order to be part of the giveaway. Real easy!

Good Luck to all. If I find more I'll post it!!

Lead: Free Digi Images!

2009-12-23T09:04:00.002-05:00

Good Morning All!!
So 2 days before the big day. Christmas Day that is! A wonderful friend of mine, Heather is a digital image designer and owner of Fresh Brewed Designs and makes digi images for papercrafters. Today she is giving out 3 free digi images. Please check out all her digi images for sale too.

Lead: A Lovely Robin's Egg Blue and Vintage Muse Giveaway!

2009-12-22T08:43:00.004-05:00

Please check out Robin's Egg Blue. She is having a giveaway.

Please go and check out My Vintage Muse. This birthday girl is sharing her birthday with all of us bloggers by having a giveaway. Sweet!

Good Luck to all!!

Giveaway!

2009-12-19T09:09:00.000-05:00

Check out this giveaway!

Merry, Merry, Merry Christmas....

2009-12-14T08:40:00.017-05:00

Today I am sharing with you some of my home during Christmastime. During the holidays my family and I put out of decorations. I just love this time of year, you can put out all different pieces and it all comes together to make a festive home. It is such a change from the everyday decor that is out 10 months out of the year. So please enjoy this picture show of what makes me happy.

Welcome to the enterance way of my home. I have a small buffet cabinet that I purchased last year and it doesn't store dishes or linens but instead it holds all my school books.

I was so proud of myself with this bookcase. I opened my mind and thought of how I would like it to be and then executed it. The 3 metal stars were used this summer in screen porch and now are being used as Christmas decor.

I truly adore vintage decor! In the past few years I have been picking up little pieces here and there.There is a store in my town that carries all cute vintage ornaments and sorts. I just love it. Last year after Christmas I picked up the cutest little statues of vintage children. Aren't they adorable?

The mantle.....

Would you believe....

that I found this Santa cookie jar at a yard sale? I couldn't believe it myself. He is just so cute. On the list in his hand has the names of the children that probably owned this cookie jar. Too bad they didn't keep it in the family and put it out in a yard sale. I guess there trash is now my treasure. You never know, one day I might just paint over the names and put my childrens names in its place.

Please check out other blogs in the tour!!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!

Your friend in blogging world,
Jessica

Another Giveaway!!

2009-12-07T22:31:00.002-05:00

Go to Serenity Now for a great giveaway!!

Giveaway at the Feathered Nest

2009-12-07T16:01:00.003-05:00

Please stop by at Dawn's blog The Feathered Nest. She is having a giveaway. I love her blog and stop by daily. She is truly inspiring. She makes the cutiest crafts and has tutorials to follow or to purchse. Go further down into her blog and see the cute snowman and little birdy she made. I just adore them.

Friday Sketchers-Card Sketch Challenge Entry.

2009-12-03T15:47:00.005-05:00

I made this card to be entered into Friday Sketchers Card Challenge. This is going to my best friend Heather this year for Christmas. This is a digi image and I am not sure of where I had got it. Complete Brain Fart Moment!! Hope you like it. Hope I win. Fingers crossed.

A day of giveaway leads!

2009-12-02T09:11:00.009-05:00

Today I will post giveaway lead to all the wonderful blogs that are doing giveaways. I am keeping my fingers crossed that I win some. Please show your love and enter. You never know, you may just win!

First, a beautiful apron giveaway from http://reluctantentertainer.com/. Today she made me stop for a moment and think of my favorite moments with my family. Just love that.

A wonderful women named Dawn at The Feathered Nest has a list of giveaways also and while your there check out her cute little Snowman "Pudge". He is just so cute. If you scroll down futher you can see her cute little birdie she made out of paper clay. She has tutorials on some cute projects as well.

Want something to keep those little toesies warm this winter. The Inspired Room is having a giveaway. They are giving away a pair of cozy white bunny slippers. My daughter would just love them.

Lastly over at Fiona and Twig, she is offering her own giveaway but also posted some great giveaway leads.

Hey, I entered them. If I win, I win. So have fun entering and roaming around blogworld. Best of Luck to all.

Oh found another!
Sue's Rubber Stamping Adventure

Alert: Great Giveaway from a Great Friend!

2009-12-01T09:54:00.002-05:00

Please jump over to my wonderful friend Lisabee at This and That. She is having a giveway for her 20,0000 visit and her up and coming 30th Birthday. Please run quick and post for a chance to win some great giveaways.

~New~ Fifteen Minute Fridays!!

2009-11-27T05:15:00.000-05:00

I love visiting blogs and getting great advice from everything from scrapping, stamping, crafting, cooking, decorating and more. I have decided that it would be nice if I can give out some advice of my own. So I have come up with Fifteen Minute Fridays! Please stop by or follow my blog to get some cool ideas and advice on Fridays. Fifteen Minute Fridays will contain projects or things you can do in fifteen minutes!! It will be on different things every week. You never know what you can do in fifteen minutes or less! So lets begin.

This week's Fifteen Minute Friday is: drum roll please.....

Planning out your week ahead.

So now that Thanksgiving is over and the December Holidays are fast approaching I feel that my time is really being taken by shopping, cooking, family time and everyday life.

So here is what to do to make sure your time isn't wasted but is being used wisely.

1. Sit down with your calendar and a pen, paper and a nice cup of hot cocoa. Chocolate makes everything less stressful. :)
2.Write down everything that has to be done this coming week. Put down the amount of time you think this will take.
3. Take that list and now put it in a list of most important (Tasks that must be done) to least important (Tasks that are not really important but you would like to see done). Do you see where I am going with this?
4. Time to chop the list! If it is least important scratch it off the list, delegate it to someone else or write it down for the next week. This will help to make your list shorter and your week less daunting.

I hope this helps! Thanks for visiting and please visit often!

Jessica

Homemade Laundry Detergent

2009-11-19T18:49:00.003-05:00

I don't know about you but this economy truly sucks. No matter what I do to save I don't seem to be getting ahead. I have a family of 5, two of which are teens. We create so much laundry. I am constantly complaining about the cost of detergent and the fact that I have to buy so much. While blog hopping one day I came across a blog called Little Birdie Secrets. Fabulous crafty blog run by a group of friends. The blog is so good I have read every blog that they have written. When I like a blog, I really read almost all of it. Well, one post was about Homemade Laundry Detergent. I was so happy to see this post. Non other do they give the directions but they show how to do it step by step. Today I went out and got the ingrediants and tonight hubby and I will be making our own Laundry Detergent. I can tell you now that this $13 investment is going to save me over $100. Go me! Thanks so much to the ladies over at the Little Birdie Secrets Blog.

So if you are interested in saving some bucks and making your own laundry detergent go here!!

P.S. I'm using Japanese Cherry Blossom essential oil. You can change the scent to your favorite scent. I found it in the craft section in Walmart. The ingrediants I found at the supermarket. Walmart only sells the Borax.

Good Luck!

Jessica~

I love Giveaways!

2009-11-18T08:51:00.004-05:00

So, non other do I love paper crafting but I love home design and other crafty things such as sewing. I also love to blog hop. When I blog hop all over the place I do find giveaways along the way. Well, I thought only fair that I share them with you too. I'll post them when I find them. Good luck to all. Fingers crossed!

Blog Candy from Sparkle Creations, btw, love her cards. They are just so beautiful.
http://sparklecreations.blogspot.com/2009/11/blog-candy.html

Beautiful Santa Statues Giveaway over at the lettered cottage.
http://www.theletteredcottage.net/2009/11/hudson-goods-three-wise-santas-giveaway.html

Beautiful Blue Cake plate and knife
http://thethriftygroove.blogspot.com/2009/11/its-bluemosaic-monday-with-giveaway.html?showComment=1258553797732_AIe9_BFvCwlKXUkMIo3KbvioP09mjEm5lYrrx_MT75IjaKoZX2rEAX8aky3kmAMlQGAbmyPnT9B33N2UzJsyoWMDoLAY8VTqXM8kSt2cmcngk4H1lGkQMd-gQTFmNaqUZRbeVWrkQMbz_5Y1tW1GFNCQbDgpiwjlxa3S4jx4RYKIhWtErY3RqZ23AJt5n7w9bqzK4h5vVevt67PJCJhCCtmRplkZEawNcmI9KXJp0RdfUSjgXsrONSva14JL5n9OtjlW4zsie9Hp#c2435167246970787408

Just want everyone to know:

2009-10-31T13:55:00.002-04:00

Okay, I just love stampingbella.com. So today over at their blog they are having a blog hop. Hurry, get over there and get hopping. These women are just so creative. So go over to www.stampingbella.com/blog/. Good Luck!! Fingers crossed.

Happy Halloween!!

2009-10-31T13:43:00.008-04:00

Hey everyone, I want to wish everyone a wonderful Halloween. Be safe, check the candy before eating it and have a great time out there! I just wanted to share a few pics of pumpkins I found around the net. Enjoy!

I just love this pumpkin. - www.allaboutpumpkins.com

Cute family of Pumpkins- http://www.ehow.com/

Mario Pumpkin - http://www.blog.j.j.games.com/

Boo to U!

2009-10-18T16:25:00.004-04:00

Today I made some very much needed important crafting time for myself. With school, the kids, the house and the hubs I can't seem to get to my craft table. It also doesn't help that I am obsessed with the computer. As I blog hop everyday, I have been getting inspired. Today instead of cardmaking or scrapping I thought it would be fun to make a decoration for my home for Halloween. I don't have anything handmade and this was fun to make. I used the Cricut for all the shapes and letters, even the little spider. I glitzed it up with stickles (glitter glue), added some pumpkin brads to the B, ric rak to the 1st O and a die cut spider to the 2nd O. In a sticker stash that I have I found a cat and ghost sticker from Jolee's that just fit perfect. It was so nice to be able to make something. So the pic is horrible. I am not the best photographer and I hate my camera. Now back to reality for me. Study, cook, sleep.

Feel yourself up!

2009-10-09T12:17:00.004-04:00

Hey everyone!! While I have not been effected personally by breast cancer I still feel Breast Cancer Awareness is very important. So ladies, check the your breasts at least once a month, usually at the start of your menstration. If you should feel any abnormalities go get checked out by your doctor. Early detection is the key for a cure. This month you will see plenty of organizations asking for donations to for breast cancer research, please if you can give what you can.

Enter today for a Custom Designed Stamp from Christy Croll

2009-09-23T13:42:00.002-04:00

Hey, go over to Christy Crolls blog and enter yourself in the custom design website. She is the creator of the Huggabuggs stamps found at www.stampingbella.com. Hurry, rush, go and good luck!

Will I make it in on time?

2009-09-18T01:00:00.003-04:00

I not sure if I will make it in on time for last week's Friday's Sketchers. I really liked the sketch so I wanted to do it. Well, even if I don't make it at least I made a card right? I am hoping to get started on Christmas cards. I ran into the problem of not having enough last year. I just didn't have the time with school. This year I have a little bit more time. I don't want to wait until November to make them though. I got this stamp years ago. He is so cute. He stamps well too. My only problem is that I am bad with bic markers and copics and make the ink bleed. I'm not sure what ink I am supposed to be using. I'll have to investigate. My hopes is to one day be able to have more copics and know how to use them properly. Guess that is going to have to go on the Christmas list!

Will I ever find my MOJO?

2009-09-18T00:49:00.003-04:00

Okay, so today I had some time for cardmaking. I really feel that when I go down in my basement to make cards that I totally lost my mojo for making cards. :( I hope to be able get it back within the next few weeks due to the fact that my son is having his Halloween Party and I just love to decorate for it.

For this weeks Stampingbella Sketch I chose to do a Halloween themed card. I love my little Johnny Depster stamp and find myself using him more then others. The pic is so bad. I hate my camera. I don't really know if it is the camera or if it is me using the camera? I did notice today that I use to much Stickles and need to stop being lazy and start matting more. Embellishments scare me for some reason. I think that they will make everything look tacky. I have to get over that fear.

Check out this new blog!!

2009-09-15T14:06:00.003-04:00

My wonderful and creative friends Heather and Cassie have made there own blog. Doodle Street! I can't wait to see all the wonderful things these ladies come up with. So please go right now and check it out!! http://doodlestreetdesigns.blogspot.com/

Wow! It has been forever since I blogged!

2009-07-23T23:43:00.001-04:00

Well it sure has been forever since I have last blogged on here. I have been in school and studying so I really don't get the time to create anything. I am so addicted to Facebook and still hanging around Cafemom though. This summer I am taking a very intense 6 week course in Anatomy and it is hard as hell. Today I gave myself the day off from class and from studying. So guess what I did! Got a pedicure!! Heee-hee. It was great. I wasn't though crazy about the price. $30. Yeah, I could have did it myself for around $5. I was kind of shocked at the price. I haven't had a pedi in a few years. I have been doing them myself for a while. A friend of mine asked me if I would like to join her so I said okay. Well, when we got there I saw the price and really didn't want to cause a scene so like a dummy, I paid $30. I am orginally from NY and they have a nail salon on every corner. A pedi, a good one too can run you about $15 to $25. So I got the pedi and wished afterwards that I didn't. I could have just done it myself and went out and bought pretty sandals to show my toes off with. Oh well, what is done is done.

I did though get to go down in my dungeon of a basement where I have my scrap table set up and make two cards. I needed a thank you card and a birthday card. Over in the Cute Critters Club on Cafemom there was a challenge to make a card using green, blue and orange. I found a piece of scrap paper leftover in a pile that was perfect for this. I wish I could say that I love this card but I don't. I rushed it. I'm missing my mojo right now and I am searching for it.

The other card is made for my step father for his birthday. I hope it gets to him by Monday. I used a rub on for the trees. Wow, rub on's are great, they are fast, easy and look great. I really should use them again. I left this card very plain but just love the contrast of colors together. My father will truly love it. Well, I am hoping to have more time this weekend between studying to make more cards and possibly do something interesting with my family. Till the next time! God Bless!

I got a new doggie.. Introducing Matteo!!

2009-04-03T08:41:00.005-04:00

Last week, my husband brought home a beautiful dog from the shelter. He is a 2 year old Bullboxer. Part bulldog, part boxer. He is adorable. I wasn't crazy about his name, it was Lewis. So I changed it to Matteo. It totally fits him. We are just in love with him. He is our second dog. Our first dog Midnight is 3 years old Black Lab. He is just the most precious dog you would ever meet. He is such a mush. Luckly, Matteo is the same way. My husband and Matteo
Matteo instantly was attached to us. My husband seems to be his favorite person in the house. We are all okay with that because we still have Midnight. I never knew that I could love another dog like I love my Midnight, but like children you just make your heart bigger. God led my husband to the shelter and Matteo was meant to be ours. I am so thankful.

Amazing, I did it.

2009-03-25T08:48:00.002-04:00

So this past weekend, my son's Cub Scout Den went on a hike. I joined them. It was my very first hike. I was so nervous due to the fact that I am out of shape and have a bad knee. Everyone, I must tell you, it was hard but so satisfying. We hiked for 4 hours and a total of 5.2 miles. Yup, 5.2 miles. Half of the hike was up a mountain that just so happens to be on the side of my house. I always look at the mountain too and wonder how you would get up there, well now I know. We hiked all the way to the top and then came back down. I truly believe the down part of the hike was the hardest and scariest. It was very rocky coming down and some part where so steep. I must admit though that it was worth it. The mountain has many secrets that you do not see from just looking up at the mountain. A small section was part of a stagecoach trail, we hiked along a stream that brought water to 3 old reseviors, the water was so clear and cold. We went through a part that seemed like the jungle. I could go on and on. I can't wait to go hiking again. I felt so energized at the end. My body felt great. I just thought that I would share my experience with you all.

Lovin this Sunday

2009-03-15T12:16:00.002-04:00

Well, today I must say is going great. I woke up this morning cheerfully, in my newly painted room that was painted a beautiful shade of yellow. The yellow makes my room so much brighter and also makes it look so much bigger too. I still have more work to do before my bedroom is done but so far so good. On most Sunday's I hear the grunts of my family not wanting to go to chruch or to Sunday school. Not this morning!!! Everyone got up and not one complaint. We went to church as a family together. It has been a couple of months since we have all gone together. I was so pleased. My son Sean, who is 8 years old usually becomes antsy and cannot last through the entire service without becoming annoying but not today. God was shining down on my family today. You could give me a bag full of money but I would not be as happy as I was this morning with my family in church. Some might find that crazy but I really do enjoy the simple things in life and I am thankful for them. The one thing I wanted to do today, I have decided not to do. My town has a St. Patricks day parade every year. I have not attended this parade since I have moved to Pa. I had planned on going with my family this year being that it is such a beautiful day out and I like to be out with my community but due to a few foolish people I have choosen to keep my family home. To many people feel that they can get drunk at the bars and come out and act like total asses. The parade is at 1pm in the afternoon. How are these people drunk this early in the afternoon? I'm still drinking coffee. So due to the behavior of these people I feel it is safer to keep my family home. I do feel bad for the business owners that put the parade on. With the economy being the way it is I'm sure that contributing to the parade is not easy and with drunk people running around ruining the parade for the people that are there to enjoy it must be very frustrating for them.
Well, enough on the parade. I will not let that damper my day. I have decided that my family and I will just relax and enjoy ourselves today. No cleaning and running around. I didn't hear any complaints from my family so I am going down to my basement to my craft area and I'm going to sew today. I might even sneak in a card or two.
Have a great day today.

So I have been busy..

2009-03-10T16:26:00.004-04:00

I'm saddened that I don't get to blog as much as the bloggers I love to read. I recently had surgery to have my gallbladder removed. The surgery went great and I'm pretty much healed and feeling great. I also have been behind in my studies due to the surgery. I am caught up and happy to say that I am also on Spring Break this week. I would love to say that I am down in my crafting area crafting my little heart away but I'm not. Instead of crafting I am painting my bedroom and my living room this week. I also have to spring clean this house. Gladly, the garage was done this weekend with the help of my family. It was bad!!!

Crafting News
Onto crafting news... my sister is preggers and is due in July. She is having a baby boy. We think his name will be Jake. So I have been thinking of different things to make for the baby's room and for her baby shower. Her baby shower theme will be Nursery Rhymes. I am finding it really hard to find anything with the nursery rhyme theme. If anyone knows of a website that they can lead me too for ideas I would greatly appreicate it.

New Releases of Stamps
So lately I have seen a lot of new releases of stamp sets and such from all different companies. As much as I like some of the designs I must say that I am not totally impressed with most. I feel the images are to cartoonish and look like coloring book images. I don't like that these companies are making such crappy stamps and charging a fortune for them. I won't name names because I don't want to bash companies. I understand that they have to come up with new designs to keep up with other companies but why crap? Some images look like they are drawn by a 5 year old. So yes, since I don't like them I will not buy them. Enough of that.

Well, I'm hoping this week to get in on some challenges. I'll post what I do if I find time.

Thanks for reading!

The Calm before the Storm~ sort of to me.

2009-02-17T19:59:00.009-05:00

Well this past weekend I was able to sit down and make a layout and complete a card challenge. Wow, I must say. I first started off making a layout of my hubby and I with our wonderful son Sean. We call him "Mad Bubs". Since we vie for his love so much I decided to do this layout to show him that we love him so much. He tells us that we are both #1. It was really a simple and fast layout. Nothing to fancy. I used chip board and stickles (of course). I simply matted the photos and added some journaling. I think it came out cute. Hope you enjoy it.

My second project was a card challenge offered up in the Stampingbella forum on SCS. Sadfully, I didn't get to post it on time. I'll try to do the next one. I used the TeddyBella image that I got from a swap. My sister is preggers so she is going to get this card from me on her shower, mind you it won't be until July. I love how colorful this card is. I used stickes again of course. I love stickles. Everything just looks so much better with a bit of glitter.

So I'm sure your wondering what I meant by the phrase, "The calm before the storm." Well, this weekend it was very calm and peaceful at my home and having that opportunity I took advantage of it by scrappin and making a card. I organized my craft space too. As of today though, my week is doing a 180. I went to school this morning and this afternoon too. Both classes were my Biology classes. Well, lets just say, I'm going to be praying that I could play with my stamps and paper. I have less then 2 weeks to get to know all 206 bones in the body and where they are located. Now just imagine me pulling my hair out. This will be no easy task. To top that all off. I will be going into surgery to have my gallbladder removed on Monday. I am praying that I will be able to make it to class on Tuesday. I just feel missing any material is a bad thing to do right now. So wish me luck that somehow I can get through it all in the next 2 weeks.

I should be studying..

2009-02-08T16:31:00.002-05:00

So today I should be studying but my friend Brandi has a birthday coming up next week and it has been on my mind that I had not made her a birthday card. Yes, I could have just sent her one from my stash but it would not have been what I want to send her. For Christmas I got Lottie and Gussie Gabalot from stampingbella.com. I just love these girls. They are cute. I used an embossed Happy Birthday cardstock that I recieved in a RAK and the Lottie and Gussie image. Inside I used a sentiment from stampinup.com. I colored in the image with my Bic markers and used a copic for skin color. I had to add some stickle glitter because without glitter it just wouldn't be a card to me. And of course I added ribbon. I love ribbon and seem to have to add ribbon to every project I do. Well, I can't wait to get the opportunity to make a card again.

Oh and for all that don't know, you must go to http://www.stampingbella.com/. They had a new release and I'm lovin it. I can't wait for payday. Have a wonderful week!!

2009-02-04T08:41:00.002-05:00

I haven't fogot about my blog, I have just been a little busy. I found out on Monday that my gallbladder has to be taken out. Mine has decided it doesn't want to work anymore. Oh well. I am meeting with the surgeon tomorrow to set a date. I have also been very busy with school. I feel guilty going down and creating when I know that I should be studying, so school always wins. I will though have to make some cards this weekend for V-day for the kids and my honey. I really enjoy looking at everyone's blogs and try to check on them daily. Today I would love if you all would go over and read a blog from a women that creates beautiful art, the shabby chic way but her post for Feb 3, is inspirational. Please go to her blog. http://shabbyscraps.typepad.com/shabbyscraps/. Thank you all so much. Well, off to study.

I have been so busy.

2009-01-28T17:50:00.002-05:00

I feel like I am neglecting my blog and my blogging time (the time I spend reading everyone's blogs.). I have been so busy with school and I have been sick at the same time. I am having trouble with my right side of my abdomen. I went to the er and went through tons of tests and so far NOTHING! This is so depressing because it is scary not knowing what is wrong and I just don't have the time right now to go back and forth to dr.'s and radiologists. I have one more test to take to rule out the gallbladder. After that I have no idea what it could be. We have ruled out the liver and appendix so far. Well, I slept all day and now have to spend the night studying for a quiz in the morning. Joy!

Thank you so much Beate

2009-01-23T21:07:00.012-05:00

My wonderful friend Beate has given me an award. Whoo-hoo!! Thanks so much girl. By the way, Beate owns an awesome advanced scrapbooking group on Cafemom. She is so creative too. You must check out her blog. http://creativepaperprincess.blogspot.com/

So Beate chose 5 friends to give this award to and I will do the same. I wish I could give it to Beate again! I will also try not to give it to anyone that I know has it already so that I can spread the award around.

1. Lizzie, check out her blog and see why I think it is great!

http://mommalizzie.blogspot.com/

2. Celina- a great scrapbooker!

http://celinascraps.blogspot.com/

3. My BFF DEE, of course we both have the same blog backround!! he-he!!

http://sprytebyrd.blogspot.com/

4. Kimmie, she is a serious cardmaker, truly awesome.

http://craftingforsanity.blogspot.com/

5. Kathy, the Queen of Altering!

http://kathysscrapchat.blogspot.com/

Please check out these really creative ladies and again thank you so much Beate, you also Rock!

BRRRRRR......

2009-01-16T12:29:00.005-05:00

To all my friends in the Northwest and thoughout the US that are suffering through this awful weather.

A girl can dream can't she? Keep warm!

Blog Candy!!

2009-01-14T19:14:00.002-05:00

http://qkd.blogspot.com/. Go to this website, leave a comment, become a follower and make your own announcement on your blog for a chance to win a stamp set from Queen Kat Designs. Whoo-hoo, wish me luck!

Got in the mood...

2009-01-14T09:44:00.008-05:00

Well I have been so lazy lately and really have not wanted to go down to the basement where my craft space is located because of the cold. So last night I got off my fat ass and put the space heater on near my desk and went to town on making 3 cards and an altered address book. I made the 3 cards for challenges in various groups and the address book I had and decided that I wanted to alter something.

Enjoy and have a great day!

This card was made for the sketch challenge over at PCP. I was so happy that I finally got to use my new stamp. This stamp is "Rumor Has It." from stampingbella.com. They are so cute.

This was a sketch challenge in the Addicted to Bellas group on Cafemom. Thanks so much Dee for a great sketch. I love ribbon, so when I saw the stripes, I instantly thought ribbon. I also used my new cuttlebug for the scallop and for the embossed pink cardstock. I truly love that cuttlebug. The image is Cupcakeabella from Stampingbella.com. I got the image in a swap and couldn't wait to use it. I know your seeing a trend. I love Bellas and the other great stamps at stampingbella.

The dragonfly card was made for a challenge for the Cute Critters Club at Cafemom. The sketch was really easy and took me no time at all to do. I used a dragonfly image that was sent to me. I believe it is an SU stamp.

Well, I was at my mothers during Thanksgiving and was cleaning up all of her junk. She is a shopaholic and buys things that she will never use. Why? I don't know. So anyway she had this address book and it was kinda ugly. I asked her why she wasn't using it. She told me that she bought another one instead. So I took the address book home with the intention of altering it and making it mine. I so desperately need a new one anyway. I didn't want to over do it with this book. I wanted a beautiful book but still simple. I didn't use many materials to do this either. I used 2 sheets of patterned paper from Basic Grey. Sorry don't know the name of it. I really don't read the names of the paper. After carefully cutting out the paper to fit the cover I cut the leftover flower and leaves. I cut and pasted the paper on and then proceeded to add the flower. I wanted it to have dimension so I added pop dots underneath and cut around the petals with a craft knife. I added some ribbon on the spine and a safety pin with a pewter heart charm to give it just a little bit more prettiness. I added a rhinestone for the center of the big flower on top and outlined the leaves and the bottom flower with Stickles. I love Stickles. Don't they just make everything just a little bit more pretty. I sure think so.

99 things to do before you die..

2009-01-14T01:08:00.003-05:00

Okay, so Dee copied this off of Callie and I am coping this off of Dee. You are more than welcome to copy it off of me.
So the thing is to bold the things you have done. Just copy and paste it into your own blog.

Happy Reading.

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland/world -DisneyWorld several times and can't wait to go back.
8. Climbed a mountain- live all around them, I drive up and down them all the time.
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language - lucky I can speak English correctly.
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied- I am satisfied with whatever God feels I should have at the time.
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39.Went Rock Climing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Gotten flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee

I'll take a busy day with a cherry on top.

2009-01-08T19:23:00.012-05:00

Hey there!! Well I've had a busy day and I'm so glad that it is slowing down and almost over. So today I went to get my hair cut and colored. I hated the color it was before and I'm so glad to have a new color that is more me. I also took off about 8 inches. I took a pic of how it came but I have been fussing with it and now it is messy. Plus I look bad with no makeup on but what the hell here's the pic.

So after I came home, I helped the kids deliver their newspapers because hubby was making an awesome beef soup. My husband doesn't cook often but when he does it comes out great. Wasted talent. He should have been a chef. Anyways...after I got back the door bell rang and guessy who was there? My wonderful UPS lady Peggy Sue. She had a package for me. It was my Bellas that my son had bought me for my birthday! Whoo-hoo. I can't wait to play with them tonight. My sister is having a baby and I don't have any baby stamps to make cards with. I just love the baby stamps at http://www.stampingbella.com/. I can't wait to find out what she is having so that I can make it more personal. I'm giving her a baby shower probably in May. I am siked to make the invites. I'll also make the cake too. I couldn't wait to get Lottie and Gussie. I have wanted that stamp for so long. I also got the Rumor Has It stamp. They are too cute. The sentiment stamp says: "If friends were flowers, I'd pick you". Isn't that so cute. It goes with many of my stamps. I thought I could also use it with the Daisy tea cup stamp I got. Well enough about stamps.

My daughter Samantha and I were playing around taking pics of my hair and then we started taking pics together. We don't get along often due to the fact that she is a teenager and has a big mouth so it was nice that we were able to spend sometime goofing around instead of fighting and arguing. I know that I am her mother but isn't she so beautiful. I can't get over that I made someone so beautiful as her. I wish I was a beautiful as her when I was her age. She's a knock out. The boys are nuts for her. Too bad they don't really know about her attitude. They would all run. LOL. Someone once wrote on their thought bubble on Cafemom, "Only a teenager can love another teenager." Isn't that the truth. I love her but the love from her friends right now is more important than mine and so is their opinions. I can't wait until she is older so that we can have a relationship that is meaningful.

Well off to go put the little boogers to bed and then to make some cards! I'll keep yah posted!