2011

found youth

2012-01-26T20:41:00.000-06:00

I just love how the lime greens in the Mandy kits and the Snap Happy Templates go together to make a quick, easy, fun to look at layout. The fact that it also lets me express what I feel for my animals without sounding sappy is an added bonus!

Journaling: an interesting fact about Max - when Alex (now 9) was born, Max would
howl each time Alex cried - as if to say “Mom, Dad, Do your job!”

The best thing about Chuy, Gunner and the cats is the way they make Max, our
older dog, young again. Max is quite a lot like our oldest son in that he is a pretty solitary dude. Max would probably do great as the only dog in a house, but he never has been, so the lap dog way of life just isn’t happening here. When we first got him, he was the puppy to another dog we had and we called him “Circus Maximus” because he was so rambunctious. Now we have had him for 13 years and he has the name “Elder Statesman” because he pre-dates the boys and the other animals who are all less than
3 yrs. old. I have always heard that kids keep you young and mine sure do that for Sam & I, I just never knew that it applied to animals, too. Max’ll spend most of his time sitting on the couch, but when the kids (Jack, Jolly, Chuy and Gunner) get out of line or get too loud, he’ll jump off the couch and show them who is boss! He also plays with the other dogs, running around the living room like the puppy he used to be. So, whenever it seems like we have too many animals, I just think of how our pet situation is helping Max, and I no longer feel like a zookeeper!

Credits: Snap Happy 02 Template, Storyteller VC, Pictured on Cardboard Overlay Set 01, Mandy Page Kit and Mandy Add On Pack plus Hang The Alpha - all items by Meryl Bartho.

posing

2012-01-25T11:01:00.003-06:00

I wanted to add a bit of playfulness to this layout, so I blended one of the checked bacgrounds into the beautiful plopper from January's Club Digital.

Journaling: Heidi Klum ain't got nothin' on Jorgia!

All items from the January 2012 Club Digital.

windmill at the ranch

2012-01-24T11:52:00.002-06:00

One of the pictures that I took at the ranch while I was having my morning coffee - quite peaceful before everything & everyone wakes up!

Credits: Stitched With Love QC 1, Rockpool, Namibia and Flowers For Him by Meryl Bartho

I also used Word Art from the CD - Scraps of Words, Nature by DSP Designers

again?

2012-01-24T08:47:00.000-06:00

Alex spends alot of his time reading and I just can't resist those shots - it seems like one of the few times he enjoys himself.

Credits:[url=https://store.digitalscrapbookplace.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_137_246_17&products_id=10714] Josh's Prayer[/url] plopper and overlay from [url=https://store.digitalscrapbookplace.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_144_81&products_id=10651]Cracked & Creased 02[/url] by Meryl Bartho.

skyler

2012-01-22T18:16:00.000-06:00

Journaling: let me start this off by saying that skyler isn’t mine. my boys were cute babies because they were, well, mine & I could see the resemblance to family members, like that sweet line on Alex’s upper lip or the smile of Ian’s that looked exactly like the the one that lights up the faces of the Tolleson family. But, I much prefer dealing with a a young toddler over a newborn anyday.
I know Skyler’s family in passing, but not close enough to notice any family resemblances. My boys play with his older brothers, so when we go to the playground after school, Skyler’s nanny brings him. He sits quietly in his stroller, not sleeping, just watching and waiting his turn to speak while all of us mommies talk. As soon as one of us makes eye contact, he talks up a storm! Such a sweet sound - not the whiny sound that babies make when they want attention or food, just this adorable little babbling, like he is really holding a conversation - which he probably is, we just can’t understand Then he smiles at you with his eyes - and you feel like you are drowning in those blue pools. So Skyler doesn’t subscribe to the “squeaky wheel gets the grease” school of thought, even though he has 3 older brothers, but he gets attention his own way and effectively endears himself to everyone around.

Credits: Cracked and Creased overlay 02, Just an Ordinary day XLVC and Rockpool - all items by Meryl Bartho

photos by s. jacobsen photography

climbing

2012-01-14T10:56:00.000-06:00

Journaling: In the Texas Hill Country, rock climbing is just that - rock - there are no mountains here to speak of, but the boys have really come to enjoy climbing around rock quarrys and dry river beds - plentiful in NW San Antonio & the surrounding area.. Perfectly Alex & Ian sized “mountain ranges”

Credits: Go Wild XL Value Collection and Softly Sepia Value Pack by Meryl Bartho

clover princess

2012-01-10T22:34:00.001-06:00

Journaling: Once Upon A Time . . . there was this little (well, not actually little, more like 12’x12’) patch of clover.
It isn’t like clover needs any help to exist - it does pretty well on its own, starting with one little leaf from who knows where and growing until you have a beautiful green patch. No trimming, fertilizing, or other pampering needed.
Then along came Princess Jorgia, with her two loyal subjects Sir JJ and Sir Ian. The green patch of clover was just begging for kids to play in it. So, Princess Jorgia deemed it an apropriate day since the sun was shining and it was the last weekend of Christmas Break, a required play time for all under the age of 18. Well, over the age of 18 too, but that is another story.
JJ, Ian and Jorgia proceeded to trim the clover by hand, staining those little fingers to a bright green. Some of the extra bits were brought to mommy at the table, but most of the clover ended up in a pile beside the original patch and the kids made “clover angels”, lying on the trimmed clover and making sure that their clothes were stained to match their hands.
Shortly thereafter, Princess Jorgia discovered the true use of clover -
clothing acents! All three were wearing clover crowns and the boys also had clover cascading out of their jeans pockets.

Credits: Stitched with Love Template 01, Storyteller SVC, Mellow Yellow (frames), Cracked & Creased Round Overlay No1
, Go Wild XLVC and Journaling Prompt Stamp Set, all by Meryl Bartho.

check and mate

2012-01-08T18:16:00.000-06:00

Journaling : As a child, I never learned to play chess. So, it has always seemed a bit complicated and even a bit mystifying. This year for Christmas Alex got a wooden game set - chinese checkers, backgammon, Sorry! and chess. Lately he has been trying to teach us all to play chess. Sam & I really weren’t interested, but my mom was and he taught her, now they play when he stays over night with her.

Imagine my surprise when I heard the boys playing and listened in - only to find out that Alex was teaching Ian how to play - and Ian liked it!

I guess it’s time for me to let Alex de-mystify this whole chess thing and teach
me, too

Credits: Softly Sepia VC, Story Series 02 template. Photo Album Memories 01 (grid background paper only), Vintage Papers Kit and Punched Out Metal Alpha - all items by Meryl Bartho.

China Berry

2012-01-06T11:33:00.002-06:00

Journaling: The China Berry tree is a native of China, but has adapted well to the conditions found in the southwest United States.

The berries are yellow at maturity, with a hard single seed that was used for making rosary beads, therefor the name Arbor Sancta. When the Chinaberries dry (after boiling), they turn white and resemble beads made from bone or ivory.

BTW, around the word China are the Kanji symbols for earth.

golden

2012-01-04T09:53:00.001-06:00

Journaling: Ian - what can I say - he’s my golden boy. He is the social butterfly, the blue-eyed blonde, the youngest. While these traits are no better than the opposite ones, they are what makes Ian well, Ian! I first started thinking of him as “golden” when he lost that little baby fuzz and the blonde hair started growing in. It wasn’t white, but when the sunlight reflected off of Ian’s hair - I thought, he’s golden! Not wanting to favor one boy over the other. I tried to forget about the whole golden idea and figured that Ian would grow out of it.

Fast forward a few years. Ian is now 7, his hair is still blonde and what can I say - it must have a love affair with the sun! Whenever those rays hit his hair, I just gotta take a picture! He tells me his hair is dirty blonde - I know different. I’m his mommy, and I say he’s golden!

Credits: All items by Meryl Bartho - Drops of Sunshine 1 & 2, Layered white Space template, Hang the date custom chipboard months & years from 2011-2020 and Weeds and Wildflowers VC (I only used the filmstrips).

reading

2012-01-01T18:53:00.002-06:00

Journaling:
this is what I wanted for both of my boys, and I am so glad that Alex has found it. To be able to sit down with a good book and totally lose yourself. Alex has always been an avid reader, but lately he has been using reading to fill those little empty spaces in the day. For instance - when we tell him that we are going to leave in 30 min., he’ll ask his daddy if he can read one of his books. Or maybe he’ll read one of his own, but the thing is he READS!

Word art: “Books are the plane, and the train, and the road. They are the destination, and the journey. They are home.”

Credits: Weeds and Wildflowers XLVC and Messy Machine Stitching 01 by Meryl Bartho

reactions

2011-12-28T20:59:00.002-06:00

Journaling: The reaction of some of our “established” pets to the new member of our zoo was a little less than enthusiastic at first, but after they all got to know each other, they seem to get along just fine. I don’t think that their initial ideas have changed, though. I’m quite sure that they think Sam & are certifiable!

Jack - I came here with my brother a couple of years ago. Since then, these people have added lizards, mice, hermit crabs, dogs and even a snake. Don’t they understand that cats rule?

Gunner - The latest puppy on the block
Max - I found this home
several years ago. I seem to remember a time of peace and quiet, no kids, and, yes - I was the only pet in the house! I have long since given up on things going back to the way they were, but, really, let’s stop with the extra animals

Credits: Industrial Revolution VC and Sweet As Apple Pie element set by Erica Belton, Tiny Twill Alpha by Kim Liddiard, Urban Edge Masks by Robyn Gough, Brown Paper Alpha Two by Meryl Bartho, Charitee Elements by Marcee Duggar, Just for Journaling by Lauren Bavin and Altered Time element Set by Nicole Young.

Tolleson Zoo

2011-12-26T19:56:00.001-06:00

Journaling: Playday at the Tolleson Zoo

I’m thinking that our latest addition - Gunner (a one yr old piebald daschund) qualifies us for zoo status. Three dogs, four cats, 5 lizards and a snake plus 2 boys under 10 - all indoors and within the city limits - definitely a zoo at times! I suppose there is a method to the madness - the boys love to roughouse and sometimes mommy & daddy just aren’t up for it. Unfortunately we don’t get a choice, so we all just enjoy the craziness

Credits: Industrial Revolution LVC, You're Pegged QC and Sweet as apple Pie Element Set by Erica Belton, Scanners Vintage by Marcee Duggar and Want Some Gold Element Set by Meryl Bartho

early christmas

2011-12-26T15:37:00.000-06:00

Journaling : Uncle Ben,
who is staying with us for a bit,
gave the boys their Christmas presents early this year. Instead of a gift card, he gave them each a coupon book with items like 30 minutes trampoline time with Uncle Ben, 1 free trip to the movies, 1 treat from HEB, etc. That was the most creative idea! I have heard of coupon books before, but they have always been for household chores that a kid would do for their parents - I think that every mom has received one of those for one holiday or another. Needless to say, the boys loved it and since the best time to use these coupons would be their winter break, Uncle Ben gave them their presents on the 20th instead of the 25th.
Today is only the 21st and they have already used 2 each.

Credits: Christmas Memories CD - A Very Merry Christmas Page Kit by Lauren Bavin, Christmas Trimmings SVC (overlay only) by Elizabeth Weaver, Sweet as Apple Pie element set by Erica Belton and Want Some Gold Element Set by Meryl Bartho.

very vanilla

2011-12-26T15:12:00.000-06:00

Journaling: It isn’t like vanilla is boring, oh no , especially not to Alexander. Some see it as plain, unflavored, just waiting for something. Not my guy - It is the ONLY flavor of ice cream or cake (no icing) that Alex cares for. In fact, it is the only dessert other than the occasional ice pop or frozen yogurt that he’ll eat at all. So, whenever we go to school to have lunch with the boys, we need to bribe them with something to get them to behave. For Ian, any ice cream flavor will work - for Alexander, a vanilla ice cream cone is the only thing that does the trick.

Credits: Vanilla Cream Page Kit and Backpack by Marcee Duggar, Cracked, Creased and Stacked - pastels and Want Some Gold Element Set by Meryl Bartho, Splatter Doodle Doo Masks by Nicole Young and Margee Alpha by DSP Designers

playing outside

2011-12-22T08:25:00.002-06:00

Usually, I like to use several different kits and element sets on my layouts. With Teresa's Life Journal Kits, there is no need, everything is there!

Journaling: alex on the trampoline - What is the difference? Not the weather, last week it was cold, rainy and dreary - same this week, but it is Christmas vacation, so everything looks brighter!

Credits: December Life Journal Value Collection by Teresa Loman

gunner

2011-12-20T15:43:00.002-06:00

Journaling: Gunner was an unexpected, unplanned and absolutely unneeded (in our house) early Christmas present. A friend of ours couldn’t keep him and we told her to call us if that situation ever came up. Well, it did and now we have 3 dogs. Gunner just made the cuteness factor in our house grow exponentially and he is the sweetest little thing! A bit hyper, but that means he fits right in with Alex, Ian and the other dogs. Honestly, watching both boys and all of the dogs sleeping or just relaxing on the couch in the afternoon is the most adorable thing that I have ever seen :) There is just something about little boys and little dogs that makes us smile and immediately lightens the mood.

Until you have loved an animal, part of your soul will have
remained dormant - Anatole France

Credits: Modern Noel by Nicole Young

alex's tree

2011-12-17T13:06:00.002-06:00

Journaling: 4th Grade -
Alex was given
a FAMILY ART PROJECT to finish for Dec 9th. My idea about family projects is this - I’ve already been to elementary school and I am not planning to go back. I don’t need school to orchestrate my family ‘s life for me - especially doing an art project! Alex has never been fond of art and I don’t care much for it if it isn’t on a computer All that being said, Alex seemed to feel that this was a family project that needed to be done and maybe we could get some bonding time in.

The project consisted of drawing and decorating a Christmas Tree. So, Alex enlisted Ben’s help to draw the tree and Ian helped him color it. I was still clinging to my “I don’t do family projects” idea - I have heard too many parents complaining about doing a family project for school to get caught up in one myself.

Next, Alex needed ornaments and popcorn strings to make this look like a “real” Christmas Tree, or to quote him, “any self-respecting Christmas tree needs popcorn strings” The boys both asked me for colored paper for ornaments, so I got into my stash and gave them a few sheets of metallic paper. Then, since Alex wanted popcorn strings, I needed to show the boys how to use a needle and thread - after all , I couldn’t just let a 7 and 9 yr old loose with needles and not expect any pricked fingers. While showing them how to make popcorn strings, an unexpected thing happened - I started to enjoy it! Ian finished up with the needle - Alex decided that he didn’t like to poke his finger. I got an ornament and decorations for the top of the tree from my christmas box, Sam helped tape down the popcorn strings and the job was done.

EPILOGUE: I still don’t care for family projects and prefer for my kids to do all of that kind of stuff themselves, but I might help out once in a while - after all it’s kind of fun and it is a way to spend time together as a family

Credits: Joyous Chrismas Page Kit, Christmas Bits Element Set and Messy Machine Stitching by Maryl Bartho, Christmas Moire Silk Backgrounds by Erica Belton, Splatter Doodle Doo Masks by Nicole Young, Bokeh - Christmas Magic by Lauren Bavin, Stitch it Up Shapes by Christine Gundersen and Candy Cane Alpha by Carol Ann Gary

relax

2011-12-15T08:10:00.000-06:00

Journaling: this is one of the
two most relaxing
spots in my house - the only two places that I can really go to get away from EVERYONE. Of course, I can escape by going into my bedroom and locking the door, but that is reserved for those times when I am really mad and want to let everyone know. I just love to be able to sit out front (with my laptop & coffee cup) in the morning, check the weather, look at my emails, watch the neighborhood wake up, and then when I come back inside I am refreshed and ready to face things. Much better than the “Oh no, not another day” feeling!

CAREFREE MOMENT: well, I haven’t had one of these in a while, but I’m working on it

Credits: Joyous Moments by Jeanet Almhøj, Stitch it up shapes by Christine Gundersen and Revealing Titles by Lauren Bavin

on a rainy day

2011-12-12T07:52:00.000-06:00

Journaling: on a rainy day - well, actually not the first, or even the second, but by the third day with no outside time, imaginary games rule!

camera tag used to be the go-to game for rainy days, but as soon as I got a camera that passed the spare change mark, chasing the boys with such an expensive device didn’t seem like such a good idea any more. since the boys are a bit older, they have no problems inventing a scenario without my help. Ian is really into the idea of the military right now, so everything is soldier this and soldier that. They were playing some sort of boot camp game, with Ian asking Alex if he was “trained on this piece of equipment” as they were climbing up their bunk bed. then they incorporated the old camera tag thing with me as a spy. when I missed a shot, Alex told Ian “wait, she probably has back up!” so they stayed in their hiding spot a bit longer.

Hasbro would do great to get these two as their creative team

Credits: Thankfully yours SVC by Robyn Gough an Very Tall Stack Quick Click by Carol Ann Gary. All items available at Digital Scrapbook place

our sign

2011-12-10T07:42:00.001-06:00

Who knew that turquoise and lime green would look good together - I sure didn't. Simply Fun by Heidi Kuester sure turned my color matching world upside down - and I like it

Journaling: I have always wanted a sign at the entrance to the house, but our family has never really been the “bless this home” (although we need all of the help we can get!) or “welcome” type. Since those seem to be the only type around, I had just about gotten used to the fact that our house wouldn’t have a sign out front, other than the standard numbers. Any quotes that seem to fit would be on signs that go inside or on my scrapbooking pages. For the first few years, I checked in the magazines that make personalized items, all of the local craft shops, etc., to no avail, so I finally gave up.Then one day, on a quick trip to the post office (which is also a florist shop and a mini-craft store) with Sam. I saw this sign and that was all there was to it. Before I even looked at the price, I was prepared to give up whatever I needed (other than my family!) to get it. I just loved that there were no flowers or lace - girly girl is one thing that I am NOT. One more thing to make it perfect - no pink! When the boys saw it, both of them thought that I made the sign myself because the saying fit our family so perfectly. I never thought that my boys’ approval of my design choices would mean so much to me, but they do!

Credits: Simply Fun by Heidi Kuester and Stitched With Love - Handstitched Brights by Meryl Bartho.

putting up lights

2011-12-09T20:32:00.001-06:00

Journaling: My preference for outside lighting is white icicle lights all around the house. That would require Sam or I getting on the roof & putting the lights up. For the past few years, I have been lucky to get the inside of our house decorated in time to enjoy it for a while before Christmas and white lights just don’t say “Christmas” to the pre-teen set! They like color and the more, the better. I saw these huge colored lights at the store and immediately knew that they would find favor with the boys. These are shots of Ian putting up the lights to surprise Alex when he came home from his tae kwon do class.

Credits: On Angles QC and Winters First Touch XSVC and Magic of Christmas Doodle Stamp Set by Kim Liddiard

peace

2011-12-08T08:46:00.001-06:00

I just love the colors in Nicole's Christmas kits - I can't decide on a favorite, so I used both the off-white and the lime green!

Journaling: While Ian and Gunner were busy making the rest of the house crazy, Alex was looking for a little peace on a Sunday morning.

Credits: Silly Little one template, Funky Little Christmas and a Modern Noel by Nicole Young. I also used Wordee Christmas by Marcee Duggar.

a relaxing moment

2011-12-05T17:20:00.001-06:00

Journaling: Although December is THE biggest holiday month of the year, not every pic that is taken during this month will be about Christmas. The naughtiness or niceness of every moment is more in dispute during December, but this is one of those non-christmas times.

Ian laying on Daddy's knees with Chuy.

Credits: Christmas Star from Scraps of the Season: Christmas memories by DSP Designers

Ian and Oma

2011-12-04T18:40:00.001-06:00

The Christmas CD from DSP is full of Christmas kits in any style that you want to use for your layout.

Journaling: Ian, after the
craziness
of unwrapping packages. Thankfully Oma was there to help
him figure out his
new scratch-off
cards!

Credits: Scraps of the Season: Christmas Memories CD from DSP Designers

no fighting allowed

2011-12-02T16:35:00.001-06:00

Wow! Using this plopper made the journaling the longest part of putting together a layout. How refreshing I totally recommend ploppers for those times when you don't have hours to spend at the computer (read: always!)

Journaling: Every year I want to put up a sign in December that says “NO FIGHTING ALLOWED” I don’t know why this should be more important to me in December rather than the rest of the year, but it is and that’s that. Now any mom with more than one child will tell you that the fastest way to get something to happen is to
tell the kids not to do it. So, December comes around,
I don’t say anything (more than I do the rest of
the time) and just hope and pray that my
boys will lose the desire to fight and embrace
peace - osmosis, maybe?

Well, believe it or not, my wish came true last year. The boys were cooperating and - gasp - enjoying it!Maybe we can make a December tradition out of the non-violent way of life? This was nothing short of Christmas Magic, so, yes, I do believe!

CREDITS: December 2011 Club Digital The Magic plopper by Heidi Kuester and Christmas Blessings page kit by Marcee Duggar available on the Scraps of the Season - Christmas Memories

dried thistle

2011-12-01T00:22:00.001-06:00

Again, I used various goodies from Nicole to complete this layout - I just can't seem to stay with one kit!

Journaling: Thistle when it first blooms
or when it dries out makes a
beautiful photo. One thing though - it is a
real hassle for the hay farmers. Since I am
basically a city girl, I can just take my pics
and pretend to be blissfully ignorant
about the rest!

Credits: Vintage Cupcake VC, Little Explorer and Mocha Fall Royale. All by Nicole Young

video games

2011-11-30T13:05:00.001-06:00

Journaling:to allow VIDEO GAMES or not

The real question here isn’t whether or not to allow video games, but how much. Because, as any mom with a boy over the age of 3 will tell you, kids will find a way to gain access to & play video games. Whether it be on computer, your phone, or over at a friends house. When video games became popular and available in the home, not only did they make money for the inventors, but I’m sure therapists offices saw a steady stream of the poor conflicted parents.

Here are some of my internal issues with video games: About 80% of the pictures I seem to get of the boys are while they play video games. So I have this little voice in my head saying BAD MOMMY, BAD MOMMY. Even though I am always trying to regulate game time, lately I have been noticing that the guys are starting to work together to get to the next level or get the next bonus. I see this happening more and more, so much so that I am thinking about making video games our family game time. Why does this feel like I am going over to the dark side? Maybe I should rethink the entire video game issue.

Really, I hear the boys complimenting each other, taking advice from each other, laughing together and although they do tend to get upset when the other messes up, they are a lot more tolerant and both work to diffuse the situation so that they can get on with the next level. These things don’t happen at the playground or outside during regular playtime. They get mad, the situation escalates, and usually someone gets hurt physically or gets their feelings hurt.

Snippets of Video Game Conversations: Thanks for showing me how to jump there. / Lets go / Sorry / Follow my lead / That was fun / I can do it! / Hold the A button - OK / I got this one / Ian - Gotcha! Alex - that was a good one!

All said without yelling.

These are sounds that I can live with.

Credits: Practicality Page Kit, Wacky Whimsy VC and one of the papers from Urban Independence VC. All by Nicole Young

every little girl

2011-11-29T21:10:00.001-06:00

Another photo from James and Hannah's wedding over the weekend.This time, I used mainly Beyond the Moon VC by Nicole and little elegant pieces from several of her other kits.

Journaling: every little girl has a dream
did you ever think that it would come true?
did you ever think this day would come?
did you ever think you would be this happy?

Credits: Beyond the Moon VC, Pastelica, Land of Nod, Nighty Night Mr. Moon and Wacky Whimsy VC. All by Nicole Young

Boys at Omas

2011-11-29T07:29:00.001-06:00

Nicole's Funky Teenscape Collection is one of my favorites - the bright colors are great for that spring feeling and the black and white items in this kit compliment beautifully!

Journaling: Alex and Ian over at Omas. Every now and again, Oma has Alex over on a Saturday night and the boys really enjoy having a night apart. But, when we pick Alex up, the guys are more than ready to see each other again!

Credits: Funky Teenscape Value Collection and bottle cap + the white date tag came from Dragon Boy Blues by Nicole Young.

James & Hannah

2011-11-29T07:12:00.001-06:00

Last night, my youngest BIL got married. It was kind of difficult to wrap my head around that concept, because he is 15 years younger than my husband and as a kid, he stayed at our house on weekends. That was too close to one of my sons getting married for comfort!

Credits: Whimsical Enchantment VC by Nicole Young.

not smiling, but seriously thankful

2011-11-26T08:35:00.001-06:00

Nicoles Oodles of Thanks VC is just perfect to write the details of Your Thanksgiving day - and the owls are the cutest!

Journaling: thankful for one
of the last blooms
of the season

thankful for each and every
moment that I get to spend
with my guys - even
though they drive me
nuts at times!

This year, as has become the tradition, we spent Thanksgiving at the ranch. It is a pot luck dinner so no one has the lions share of the work or expense. As is usual with this meal, we all eat too much, so a hike is just what everyone needs after dinner. James, one of Sams younger brothers is getting married on Saturday so all of his soon to be in laws that will be at the wedding were at the ranch. We all made several new friends. Especialy Ian, my social butterfly. When everyone got back from the hike, he told me how it had been a
wonderful day and proceeded to list why. “1. I met lots of new friends and got to play ping pong with them, then 2. I found a couple of fossils and part of a deer jaw on the hike. 3. The food was great!”

Credits: Oodles of Thanks VC, Splatter Doodle Doo Masks and date tag from Whimsical Enchantment VC - All by Nicole Young at Digital Scrapbook Place

BUSTED

2011-11-20T19:58:00.001-06:00

Journaling: Here we have Ian - what else can I say. He is always putting his dad & I in those
positions where we want to laugh, but as parents, we know we shouldn’t. I thought that these situations would be over when he passed the 2 or 3 year mark, but he’s 7 and the comedic value of some of his looks and actions is still going strong. For example : on the day when I took these pictures, Ian was sick - ear infections in both ears, low-grade fever & an upset stomach. Definitely not the time for spicy foods or candy. Sam had made some jalapenos stuffed w/strawberry cream cheese wrapped in bacon (one of Ian’s favorites) that night, but we told Ian to wait and we’d save some so he could have them when his stomach had settled a bit. Then he wanted some of his Hallowen candy, another no-no on an upset stomach, but again, the candy was in no danger of being tossed, so it would be there when Ian was feeling a little better. About five minutes after this discussion, I was taking pictures of Alex and turned around to take one of Ian, only to catch him stuffing his face with a jalapeno and his bag of candy sitting in front of him at the dining table. BUSTED! October 2011

Credits: Little Mr Mischief VC, Stamped to Perfection Quick Click, Midnight Garden Overlay Set, Misfit Memories Alpha and I just had to add the paper butterflies from the Windy Day kit! All items by Nicole Young

Slightly Off?

2011-11-20T19:16:00.001-06:00

Journaling: Ian, getting ready for a wedding, thinking that his ties might look better on his ears rather than around his neck. Now, would a girl do this? Maybe, but I sure didn’t! And, the only frame of reference I have is me when I was younger (I was an only child) and my husband who doesn’t recall acting like our boys when he was little. So, I’m guessing that they picked up their tendency toward sneaky, silly behavior from me, since I totally understand it and their antics throw their daddy for a loop. How’s that for reasoning? I guess That might be another cause for their silliness. My reasoning is sort of convoluted at times and they might have picked that up But the lack of respect? I have no idea where that came from and I hesitate to blame everything on their friends. It sure would make me feel better, but I have a sneaking suspicion that, as parents, we might have brought this on ourselves. I hope things change pretty soon, because it sure makes family life hard.

Slightly off - when compared to adult behavior, but for a 7 yr old boy, he’s perfectly normal! Nov 2011

Credits: Urban Independence Value Collection by Nicole Young

top cat

2011-11-20T18:22:00.001-06:00

Journaling: Woody’s viewpoint: Only one dryer and four cats . . . hmmm … what shall we do about this? Well,
I am the top cat here, so I guess I’ll claim the dryer first, while the clothes are still warm.

Carola’s viewpoint: OMG! Got to get the camera before she moves.

Zack’s (our 14 year old nephew) viewpoint: Hey, let’s turn the
dryer on!

Sam’s comments, since he was the one folding the clothes. Oh man,
we have to wash the load again - now there is cat hair all over
everything - yeah, cute pics.

BTW, Woody and Dusty are the new cats here. They belong to Ben, who has just moved in. My two cats, Jack and Jolly are just clueless males (of course, I love them, but to the others that is beside the point). We got our little daschund, Chuy, around the time that Jack and Jolly were still kittens, so all three became some sort of weird dog/cat hybrid.
Woody has assumed the dominant role. She might be small, but she is all cat and as far as she is concerned, has the required skill set to fill the supervisory position of the animals in this house.

Credits: Going this Way and I used the orange ribbon from Altered Diva - both kits by Nicole Young.

together

2011-11-20T08:21:00.001-06:00

This is our Christmas card for 2011 - one of the teachers at the boys school gave me this quote and it is so appropriate for the season (and all year!)

"We may not have it all together, but together we have it all"

Credits: Funky Little Christmas by Nicole Young at Digital Scrapbook Place

PAYBACK

2011-11-18T15:40:00.001-06:00

Journaling: Chuy (my little toy daschund) torments the cats on a daily basis. At first, I would get after Chuy and tell him to leave
the cats alone. Then when I thought about it, I realized that they
are CATS after all, and they can get away from Chuy at any time.

Credits: Pippidy Pop page kit by Nicole Young.

Picture Perfect

2011-11-17T18:37:00.001-06:00

Journaling : Every year school pictures come out and I feel a little pinch of guilt because I don’t purchase any. Well, first of all I like candid shots better than portraits any day. My boys are both at the age that, when asked to smile, they give a ginormous “cheese face” and think that is a smile - I know better. The
natural looks that I capture here at home are much more to my liking
and definitely better suited to my wallet Ian - 2nd Grade

Credits: Soul Songs Template, wording from Stamped to Perfection template, Mocha Fall Royale SVC and the stitched frame came from Urban Independence SVC - All items From Nicole Young

the ranch

2011-11-17T18:29:00.001-06:00

This is a pic of the ranch that Sams cousins own, and a bit of text from their website.

Journaling: "dream in progress - CURRENTLY UNDER CONSTRUCTION" The Purpose of Tejas Trails is to give people and groups a place in pristine nature for all manner of activites and experiences; in the belief that the environment's beauty, peace and inspiration will foster greater self-awareness and inner-peace, which should then be reflected in "our shared world".

Credits: Stamped to Perfection Quick Click, Urban Independence Page Kit and Weary Traveler Page Kit. All items by Nicole Young at Digital Scrapbook Place

busted

2011-11-13T06:51:00.001-06:00

Alex at home

2011-11-11T17:51:00.001-06:00

The sepia tones in the November Club Digital are so comforting & homey that I thought this would be perfect for a layout in Rene & Stich's Quote Me Challenge.

Journaling: this is a shot of Alex in 4th grade.
He is my basic (no, on second thought, complicated) home body. Except for the occasional weekend at Omas, he can usually be found here at home, either reading a book, practicing his moves, playing video games, or just being. While his brother likes all outdoor activities, Alex is the other side of the coin and the two things at the top of his list of favorites are comfort & home. Until tomorrow!

Quote: "Ah! There is nothing like staying home for
real comfort" Jane Austen

Credits: Fallin' Blues Page kit from November 2011 Club Digital by DSP Designers

on the couch

2011-11-09T20:22:00.002-06:00

Journaling: Sam used to lay down like this almost every night with our 2 boys. now that they have gotten too big for the couch, this fun nightly tradition has gone to join the other traditions in the “land of fun things we did when the kids were little”. last night, jj (5) was here with the boys and they were all watching a halloween episode of fanboy and chum-chum. jj was a bit scared, but he didn’t want to admit it with the other “Big” boys around. To take care of that, I told him that Sam was a little scared, too and maybe he could go keep him company. Sam ended up laying on the couch with jj and ian just like he used to a couple of years ago -

Credits: Being Grateful Mega Kit by DSP Designers

The Outdoor Kid

2011-11-06T09:28:00.000-06:00

Journaling: Ian is definitely a boy who is not terribly impressed with todays technology. He calls himself an “outdoor kid”. His idea of having a good time is either jumping on the trampoline, riding his bike with friends or skateboarding. He wil play the occasional video game, (he is a boy after all!) but when given the choice between electronics or being outside, he’ll choose the outdoors every time. Ian rides his bike to school in the morning, loves to come outside and help when either his daddy or I are outside, and just enjoys sitting out front in the garden.

Credits: Most items on this layout are from Sports Whimsy by Nicole Young, but I just couldn't resist using a few more of Nicole's designs. I used a few pieces from Urban Independence, and a couple of papers from Dragon Boy Blues and Little Mr. Mischief. One more thing - I used the date tag from Nicoles Falling Slowly element set. All of these items are available at Digital Scrapbook Place.

Our latest animal

2011-10-30T17:10:00.003-06:00

Kim's More heART Art Journaling Page Kit
doesn't just work for art journaling - it has those beautiful warm gold tones that really spice up any of your pictures.

Journaling: Yep, I went and did it. I got a snake. Ian had begged and begged, but I was not going to budge on this issue - no snake until he was 10 and could pay for it himself. At that time, the snake was to stay in Ians room, Ian would feed it, clean the cage, etc. It is well known (among our family ) that I love lizards - we have 5 and the only reason we stopped there is that we were running out of aquariums! So, anyway, I was at Petco to pick up crickets for the lizards and I went by the area where they keep amphibians and reptiles. The Leopard Geckos were 50% percent off, so that seemed like a good deal and we do have one extra aquarium. Then the lady came out to mist & change the water for the baby snakes. I held one, it started weaving in and out of my fingers and I was sold with no one there to stop me, besides, the pattern on his skin was absolutely gorgeous! Bob was ours and he’s what I’m sure is the just the beginning of our snake collection. And Ian is only 8.

Credits: More heART Art Journaling Page Kit
by Kim Liddiard, Stamped With Love - Messy Machine Stitches by Meryl Bartho, Telling Tiles by Erica Belton, Arty Farty Frames by Robyn Gough and Fall For All Groupies by Heidi Kuester.

Crossvine

2011-10-28T16:51:00.000-05:00

The crossvine (bignonia capreolata) in my front yard.

Journaling:
Once in a lifetime, right in the middle of an ordinary day, we get a chance at a fairytale.

growing any plant, especially a flowering one, is a cause for celebration. lately I seem to be having more luck with that than usual, but I still think of fairytales when I see a flower.

Credits: Kowhai and 4 In A Strip Template by Lauren Bavin and Maskee Large Quick Bits by Marcee Duggar

Those Two

2011-10-24T17:43:00.001-05:00

Journaling: Alex and Jorgia have one of those relationships that you don’t usually find until high school or later. Although they are only in 4th grade, they both have an old soul and Jorgia’s is especially sweet. She takes Alex as he is, which can sometimes be a bit difficult and holds him up when he needs it, never asking for anything in return. Alex seems to sense this and he often has long conversations with Jorgia, something he will never do with anyone else. Last week Alex was having some
problems with boys at the playground after school, so we left early, hitching a ride with Jorgia and her litle brother. Alex was the third one to climb in the back seat and Jorgia, without any prompting from her mom or me, noticed how upset Alex was and explained the car situation by saying “Well, we always save the best for last!” Needless to say, that dried his tears beter than anything that mommy could have said:)

Credits: Season of Love Value Pack by Jeanet Almhøj, Uniquely Me Word Art by Tina Chambers, Buttons Borders and More by Christine Gundersen, Maskee Quick Bits by Marcee Duggar, Sweet as Apple Pie element set by Erica Belton and Recipe Card Tabs by Elizabeth Weaver

Mushrooms

2011-10-23T20:39:00.001-05:00

These are some pictures that I took in the front of the house last weekend.
Quote: "the mushroom is the elf of plants"

Credits: Season of Love Value Pack by Jeanet Almhøj, Split Personality Template by Tina Chambers

My Garden!

2011-10-15T00:14:00.003-05:00

I used a beautiful template from Meryl (what other kind is there?) along with the Altered Journey kit in the art journaling style from Elizabeth. Although I'm not really into the art-journal style of scrapping, I chose to make my layout about something important to me - thats as art-journaly as this girl gets

Journaling: gar·den noun;gär-d;n\
1a : a plot of ground where herbs, fruits, flowers, or vegetables are cultivated b : a rich well-cultivated region c : a container (as a window box) planted with usually a variety of small plants
2a : a public recreation area or park usually ornamented with plants and trees

I am so not a gardening person and it makes me so happy to know that I have created a place for any of us to go and just “get away”. It is funny, how I’ll be sitting out front and get visits from each of the members in the house - human AND animal - one at a time!

This year, of all years, I chose to create a garden in the summer during the worst drought and hottest temps in Texas history... I must admit, if I had known how much work it would end up being, I don’t think I would have started. Now that the flowers are starting to bloom and the temps are getting bearable, I would recommend a nice, quiet seating area for everyone!

Credits: Altered Journey and Recipe Card Element Set by Elizabeth Weaver, Mask and Cluster of three Quick Click Template by Meryl Bartho, A touch of Dirt Overlay Stack by CarolAnn Gary and Paper Butterflies Element Set by Robyn Gough.

Summer pics

2011-10-12T11:46:00.000-05:00

These were a few pictures taken this summer (2011)Journaling: Uncle James and Uncle Ben stopped by to visit over summer vacation, and while the boys do love the time they spend with their uncles, they don’t realize how lucky they are to have them as close as a 2 hour drive.Credits: Some Summer Template by Heidi Kuester, A Touch of Dirt Overlays by CarolAnn Gary, Edge Stax infamous by Kim Liddiard and Just Another Day page kit by Heidi Kuester

AWESOME!

2011-10-09T17:08:00.003-05:00

These were just some pictures that we took out back on a particularly nice day when Alex needed a haircut. Alex - living life out loud Thoughts and comments: 1. Mom, really, how dare you take pictures when I need a haircut so badly? 2. Taking a break from being angry. 3. Don’t you dare post these on facebook! 4. Mom, guess what? 5. I am AWESOME! Alex’s thought for the day: I am AWESOME - no matter WHAT my hair looks like! Sidenote: I wish I had that frame of mind at 9 - bad hair held a lot of sway over me as a kid! Credits: Joyful Memories by Christine Gundersen and A Touch of Dirt Overlay Stack by CarlAnn Gary, Life Uninhibited word art by Tina Chambers, Dated Gel Strips by Erica Belton and Story Series Template by Meryl Bartho.

game chair

2011-10-03T09:03:00.001-05:00

Journaling: Earlier today, Sam stopped by a garage sale on the way home from the grocery store. I have been wanting these game chairs for the boys for forever, but it just wasn’t in the budget. Hopefully we’ll find another at a garage sale or even a pawn shop sometime soon. It sounds ridiculous, but the boys seem to get in fights more often if they are sitting on the same piece of furniture. When they have their own space, flare ups don’t happen nearly as often and the atmosphere around the house is much calmer. Believe me - calmer is better! Sept 2011 Credits: Halloween Haunt Mega Kit by DSP Designers

phonephotos

2011-10-02T08:54:00.000-05:00

Journaling: All of our "silly" shots end up on the camera that came with my phone. We were downtown at a Silver Spurs Basketball Game and the boys' tae kwon do school had an exhibition there. Since then, Ian has left tae kwon do for Cub Scouts, but Alex is still going strong. Credits: Harvest Days stamps by Tina Chambers, October Days Page Kit by Elizabeth Weaver Lovin the Layers Quick Click by Nicole Young Sweet Joy Page Kit by Erica Belton Fancy Flourish BackPack by Robyn Gough all available in the Oct. 2011 Club Digital.

Upside Down Ian

2011-07-29T15:37:00.003-05:00

Journaling: since we have been so busy this summer, we haven’t really had alot of time to visit the school playground - a definite staple of our summertime schedule last year. here Ian is trying to make up for lost time, making sure he is prepared to wring the most enjoyment out of the little playground time provided in second grade.

Credits: Lil Ship Boy quickpages by Studio Miss Vivi & Splatter Graffiti Masks by Tangie Baxter

Frog Hunting

2011-07-25T00:38:00.002-05:00

Journaling: The story here - we went to the ranch to go fishing and Sam wanted to try using live bait. Now, you’d think that the boys would have one of those lightbulb moments that might cause them to realize that they would need to put those cute little froggies on a hook, but they didn’t think that far. Here is Ian, goingoff with his butterfly net and bug cage to get some thing to fish with.This time, he wasn’t trying to catch butterflies, but one actually flew into his net and got stuck there! BTW, the cute little froggies that the boys caught got nowhere near a hook. After a bit of pleading, “Can we take them home, PLE-E-ESE?” to no avail, we persuaded Alex & Ian to release them back into the creek.

First Swim Meet

2011-07-16T08:54:00.003-05:00

Journaling: after 2 weeks of early morning practices, the boys had their first swim meet. A four hour affair in 100+ weather with a fiesta-like atmosphere - food, drink & candy booths, plus the kids were playing football while waiting for their individual heats. Our team did win the meet, but that is more for the older kids than my two, who were just happy to participate :)

Credits: Shabby Sun and Fun by Studio Rosey Posey

Such strange guys!

2011-06-28T13:06:00.003-05:00

Journaling: when I first married Sam, I wasn’t sure how to react to or deal with the constant joking and acting silly that seems to run in the Tolleson family. I can remember thinking, does this family take ANYTHING seriously ?!? But, as our boys have gotten older. I’ve come to realize that a liberal dose of joking and silliness is a good way to deal with things. A neccessary item in my quest to survive as the only female in a house full of boys.

Credits: Found Treasures by Tracy Stroud and Flergs along with Worn Overlays and Mixed Stitches by Manu.

Alexander Graham Bell

2011-05-28T13:07:00.004-05:00

This is Alex practicing his Biography Book Report as Alexander Graham Bell.

Journaling: "Mr. Watson . . come here . . . I want to see you" spoken through the telephone by Alexander Graham Bell to his assistant, Thomas Watson, in the next room.

Quote: The achievement of
one goal should
be the starting
point of
another.
AGBell

Credits: Before The First Snow by Lorie Davison

3rd Grade thoughts

2011-05-26T22:08:00.004-05:00

BTW, the art near the top was something he brought home from art class at school - after they made a blue & purple watercolor background, black paint was dripped onto the page and then turned sideways so it would run.

Journaling:

Open House letter to Parents from Alex:

I want to thank you for coming. This year was hard. I have found that I am good at math this year.
My favorite subject is PE. It is really recess, but Mrs. Lockard tells us that recess is not a subject. The hardest part of 3rd grade is work. I still need help with science. The best thing this year IS recess!
I am really looking forward to having no homework. I want to say you’re weird.

from Alex

ON THE BACK: Just kidding about the last sentence.
LOVE YOU!
Credits: Snakes and Ladders by Dawn Inskip

Make A Splash!

2011-05-21T22:17:00.001-05:00

Journaling: Ian - making a splash at age 7 - extrovert that he is, he might as well have “Look at me” tattooed on his chest! Earlier today at school, the kids were treated to the Math Rocks concert - something that they had been looking forward to all year. Then the boys had their birthday party at the pool - all in all I would say it was an awesome day.

Credits: Blended Templates Bundle 05 By Rosey Posey, Life is Good by Julia Makotinsky, water bits from Rough To the Touch by Lorie Davison and By The Sea from Natali Designs.

Alexs' 9th

2011-05-16T18:35:00.001-05:00

Alex turned 9 whether he was interested or not (time has a funny way of sneaking up on you!) and he actually enjoyed the party - despite his protestations to the contrary. Let me ask you - do you think that these pics are of a child having an awful time?

Credits: Blended templates 05 by Studio Rosey Posey, Life is Beautiful By Studio JMdesigns, Paint Splatters and Hipstagramix Dreamy Photo Overlays from Ztampf!, Distressed Edges by Flergs, strings from MGL (blog freebie) and frame from Cafe Noir by Lauren Bavin

Brownie, French Fries and ketchup

2011-01-27T18:21:00.001-06:00

Journaling: Brownies - yum. French fries - yum. The two together, kinda strange, but I can deal with it. Brownies, french fries and ketchup - just plain disgusting. My cousins from Germany added alot of ketchup to everything (South Texas food was TOO spicy for their palate), so I am thinking that Ian picked it up because he was trying to be like them. I’ll never know what made him decide to try brownies, french fries & ketchup - but I think it is just plain gross! Dec 2010

R & R

2011-01-27T18:18:00.001-06:00

Journaling: Over the
Christmas Break, Chuy had a bit of a mishap and fractured his leg. While he was under anesthesia, we decided to go on and get him neutered.
Because of his stiches, the vet put a clinic collar on him - you know, the ones that look like a bullhorn. Anyway, Chuy looked rather pitiful sleeping with Sam on the couch.
Jan 2011

Christmas Day

2011-01-27T18:14:00.000-06:00

An accurate depiction of our family's Christmas Day - complete and utter chaos, but fun!

Journaling: on Christmas, it has become tradition for Sams relatives to gather at our house. A wonderful, relaxing, fun day after all of the rush of decorating, buying presents for the boys and wrapping. It seems like each year we enjoy this tradition more :)

Ribs

2011-01-27T18:13:00.001-06:00

PSP Time - NOT!

2011-01-04T20:40:00.001-06:00

Journaling: Since other game systems reside in this house, we didn’t think a PSP would be a big deal - just something to use for long car trips. Boy, were we wrong! Chalk this one up as one of our biggest parental blunders of 2010. Alex became so attached to his that we thought it was another appendage and as soon as Ian saw it, he immediately wanted to buy one of his own . Now, I don’t usually let the boys go to the playground with a video game - I mean life wasn’t meant to be ALL digital, right? But, this was an extra trip so I let it slide -
this time.

Credits: January 2011 Club Digital by DSP Designers and Watercolour Hearts Journal Strips by Erica Belton.

Behind the Christmas Tree

2011-01-03T20:25:00.000-06:00

Journaling: I love how Ian has picked up my habit of decorating the back of the tree. When I was younger, I did it because I felt sorry for the part of the tree. that no one noticed or payed much attention to. I’m not sure of his motivation here, but he sure gets the job done!

Credits: Icicle Eve and Christmas Time Tags by Heidi Kuester, Sweet As Apple Pie Element Set by Erica Belton, Word Frames - Christmas and By Lines - Deck the Halls by Tina Chambers, Falling slowly Element set by Nicole Young and Edge Decor Stamp Setby Suzanne Walker.

Caught in The Act

2010-12-30T19:12:00.001-06:00

Journaling: Sam and Sarah on Christmas Day. I asked them to sit together so I could get
a photo, but Sam had to act silly (as is the norm for most of the Tolleson family members) and I took the picture just as he was tickling Sarah. He was so happy that I got the shot in “mid-tickle” Just one of the little things that makes
Christmas so fun!

Credits Urban Lime and Edge Stax Mixed by Kim Liddiard, Paper Frames - From the Scrap Heap and A Little Grudgy Overlay Stack by Rene Bross, Scraps of Words - Brothers and Sisters CD by DSP Designers and Journal Calendar Tags by Erica Belton

I Spy

2010-12-27T21:33:00.000-06:00

Journaling: This is Fuzzball. one of our leopard geckos. Not sure why Ian named her that, because lizards are in no way fuzzy or ball-shaped. Now I do think that they are cute, but that is strictly a personal preference. But really, these are the lowest maintenance, sweetest pets that we have. I love our dogs & cats (2 of each) but they have personalities and get miffed at times. Fuzzball just loves being held and will sit on Ian’s neck while he does his homework.

Credits: Urban Repose by Lauren Bavin andPanorama in Pieces QC by Meryl Bartho.

Morning Glory

2010-12-27T12:10:00.001-06:00

Journaling: On a trip to Sisterdale, visiting the cemetery, we stopped on Main street and I took these pics at the Sisterdale Winery.
dec 2010

Credits: Violet Frost VC by Carol Ann Gary, Wildflowers overlays by DSP Designers, Funky Frame Stamps by DSP Designers, From the Photobox2 by Meryl Bartho and It's all about Family Overlays from the December Club Digital.

In Step

2010-12-26T13:58:00.000-06:00

Journaling: Erik, Richie and their mom, Kerstin, came to visit (from Berlin, Germany) during the Christmas holidays this year. Although the boys understand limited English and Ian knows no German, my 6 year old fell right in step with his "Germany cousins” as he calls them. This vacation will not be one that is soon forgotten

Credits: The Past Remembered, Daily Chipboard Tabs and The Monthly Circle by Christine Gundersen, A Little Grudgy Overlay Set and Tape - From the Scrap Heap by Rene Bross, Falling Slowly elements set by Nicole Young, Scraps of Words - Family by DSP Designers and Word Art - Old Proverbs by Tina Chambers.

Monkey bar-ing

2010-12-23T12:33:00.000-06:00

I got a real kick out of the way Ian calls playing on the monkey bars "monkey bar-ing".

Journaling: After Alex showed us his version of
playing on the monkey bars, Ian had to make it known that he can monkey bar with the best of
them

Credits My Teen VC by Carole Harden and her Three on the Side QC, Want Some Gold Element Set and Brown Paper Bag alpha by Meryl Bartho. I also used Falling Slowly Element set by Nicole Young.

Natural Beauty

2010-12-08T20:30:00.000-06:00

I am not an avid bird photographer, but when I saw these photos that a friend took at the zoo, they were begging to be scrapped.

Tina's Magic In The Air Page Kit gave me the exact blue that I needed.

Credits: Magic In The Air by Tina Chambers, Choco-Yummy Overlay by Kim Liddiard, Funky Frame Stamps by DSP Designers, Cracked & Creased Overlay 1 by Meryl Bartho, Just for Journaling and Antique Overlays by Lauren Bavin, I've Been Framed by Marcee Duggar and Falling Slowly Elements by Nicole Young.

Alex Moments

2010-12-06T20:27:00.001-06:00

A Moment to Treasure is a kit that really makes your photos shine - and totally take center stage because of the wonderful tone-on-tone elements.

Journaling: alex really isn’t into swinging from bar to bar on the monkey bars yet. One thing he is really good at, though is finding a use - intended or not - for every piece of equipment on the playground.
2010 / our trips to the playground always produce such wonderful moments, even if no one really wants to go, the playground seems to be able to wash away all of the worries of the day and replace them with FUN.

Credits: A Moment to Treasure Page Kit and Alpha by Teresa Loman. I also used A Little Grundgy overlays by Rene Bross, Edges 14 - Edgy Photos
, Edge Decor Stamp Set and Swirl Boxes by Suzanne Walker, Altered Time Elements by Nicole Young and Daily Chipboard Tabs by Christine Gundersen.

Wiggles

2010-12-04T09:09:00.001-06:00

Journaling: My boys - wrestling on the floor.
I kept trying to get them to stop,
thinking that they were just acting
up, but then I realized - with no
school over the holidays and no
playground time, it was a
requirement for sanity in the
Tolleson household :)
Nov 2010

Credits: Club Digital Dec 2010 by DSP Designers and Tiny Black Acrylic Alpha by Meryl Bartho.

Font: Century Gothic

What a Smile

2010-08-04T22:15:00.000-05:00

Journaling: Like most moms, I was inundated with information before I had my first baby. Classes that told me about the nighttime feeding schedule, diaper changes and lack of sleep for mom & dad. In all of this preparedness training, not one word was mentioned about a baby’s smile. When you went to your first real photo shoot and gave the photographer that enormous smile with your eyes and the little half twist of the mouth, you’d think I was the only mommy that had ever seen her 2 month old smile. Surely I was the proudest! This in no way got me ready for the megawatt smile to come. You have toned it down a bit as you get older, but in those unguarded moments when you are really happy you still have the ability to instantly turn me from a normal adult to a smiling, sniffling mess. And you know something?

You always will.

Credits: Jumpers 5-8 by Crystal Livesay, Smile by Micheline Martin, Distressed Edges from Flergs, MGL's Trap The Spark, Indomitable, and Game On, Worn overlays from Manu, Freebie worn overlay by Gundhilde Storeid, and Joirnalicious by Ztampf.

Boxes?

2010-07-19T21:03:00.000-05:00

Journaling: It is a well known fact that cats like boxes, but it does get a bit annoying when you have bought them a $150 playplace and they prefer the boxes from Costco! Then I came out of the kitchen this morning to find my son in a plastic box, watching TV. When I asked why, he said”Mom this is a really comfy chair!” Well, I guess I need to dump our furniture and furnish the living room with cardboard and plastic boxes.

Credits: TK

Mom & Monika

2010-07-09T20:25:00.000-05:00

Journaling: What began as a passing acquaintance in Berlin, Germany years ago has turned into a comfortable friendship between my mom and Monika. Over the years, they have dealt with difficult husbands, divorce, the death of partners, and the most difficult and trying situation that there is, CHILDREN! Now mom lives in Texas and Monika is in California, but they do enjoy spending vacation time together. Oct 1998

Credits: Scrapping with Liz Cut Up Templates, Kindred Spirits by Studio Gypsy, Riverbank and Yesterday's Promise by Lauren Bavin and Friends 5 word art from Elegant WordArt by Bethany (fonts changed to match layout)I used Felix Titling, Pea Tiphanie and Century Gothic.

Early Risers

2010-07-03T20:43:00.000-05:00

Journaling: this shot was taken first thing in the morning BEFORE little dogs and little boys get an attitude!

Alex = 8 years / Chuy = 3 months / Max = 14 years

Word Art: Just an ordinary day / Fur ever friends

Credits: Storyteller Templates by SuzyQScraps, To Do Kit by Miss Vivi, Beyond Repair by Lauren Bavin, Button Mania by Miss Vivi,Discovery Alpha by mgl scraps, Toby and Cracker by Faith True and Kristin Aagard, Ordinary Moments Word Art by Tina Chambers and Dog Wordart from Elegant Word Art by Bethany

The Thing About Brothers

2010-06-28T18:13:00.001-05:00

Journaling: It is so hard for me to believe that my guys can guard each others feelings so ferociously (I mean, really, God help the playmate that says something even slightly rude to one of my boys when the other is around!) one moment but say such mean, hurtful things to each other the next. I guess that is just the way brothers are. Some of this sibling stuff really perplexes me. Sam is constantly having to reassure me that these little spats are just that and the underlying emotion there is love. But the spats can be so vicious! Sam and his younger brothers get along great now that they are adults and even look back fondly on some of the sibling rivalry that went on between them and their sister. I forgot to add that the mean, hurtful stuff seems to float off with the breeze and after everyone has cooled off, I have my sweet, loving boys again.

Credits: Secret Labyrinth by mgl, Vintage Scanners by Marcee Duggar, Grungy Pup by Nicole Young, Postage Date Stamps by Jen U, Bec's Shadowmistress Actions and Scraps of Words CD - Children from DSP.

Ear Impression

2010-06-26T10:56:00.001-05:00

Journaling: Alex loves the idea
of going to birthday
parties, but when it comes to associating with a group of kids that he really doesn’t know, he’d rather stay home. This party at Artworks was no
different from the rest - the birthday girl was great, her little brother was fine, but the rest of the kids he didn’t know or want to. Since art really isn’t his thing, he wanted to go home within 5 minutes of arriving. Then he found the play-doh :)

Credits:Laura's Templates by NeeNee. Pop Summer by Glam Fairy, Psycho Magnet and Party Central by Flergs, Playful by Lyndsay Riches and Scribble Outline Action from Atomic Cupcake

6th Birthday

2010-06-22T17:46:00.000-05:00

Already?

Journaling: Ian: Mom, I remember this. Oma was helping me swing!

Mom: Well, not really, but Oma did give you the blue swing for your 6th birthday.

Credits: TK

Phone Time

2010-06-16T08:39:00.001-05:00

Journaling: Usually Alexander and I both have morning conversations on the cell phone with Oma before anyone gets up. The tradition started years ago when Alex was first learning his letters and he would sing the ABC song to her each morning. As he grew, the phone conversations changed from the ABC’s to whatever he learned in class that day. The phonics song from first grade was a big hit. Sometimes I would prompt him with ideas of things to tell Oma and then translate some of the phrases that Alexander said because he used those cute linguistic shortcuts that are developed in the house and only understood by those around 24-7.

Now that he is a big 3rd grader, his conversations are quite intelligible and talking on the phone to Oma is second nature. No more prompting needed / he has tons of stuff to say! Often times he asks me to call instead of me calling Oma for something, then asking him if he would like to talk. This phone call was made a couple of nights ago after swim lessons June 2010

Credits: Dreams in Colour Album by MGL, Splatter graffiti masks by Tangie Baxter, My New Skirt, Riverbank and Basic Boy by Lauren Bavin, Old Paper Alpha by Miss Vivi and Button Threads Volume 1 by Redju

On good terms!

2010-06-03T20:56:00.001-05:00

Hopefully this won't be one of the only times this summer that my boys aren't fighting!

Journaling: What does it take to make a six year old happy? Well, like most
parents, we have tried several things with limited success. This year, Alex brought 3 of his reading textbooks home to give to Ian. Mrs Sewell offered them to the class and Alex spoke up saying, “My little brother could use these.”

THAT is what makes my six year old happy!

Credits: Dreams in Colour 2.0 Quickpages, elements from Dreams in Colour 2.0 - Gray, sun from Springs Promise and Grunge Alpha all by MGL

Elder Statesman

2010-05-20T22:17:00.000-05:00

Journaling: Although Max is older than both of my boys, they both know that Max is their dog and always will be. We now have 2 dogs, 2 cats and some hermit crabs, but Max was first He is not one of those who takes your seat on the couch (the cats do that!), but he is one who waits until he is invited to come sit with you. He’ll sit on the floor and stare until you motion for him to jump up.

When I first saw Max, Sam & I were at the pet shop buying a leash for our other dog, Lacy. It just so
happened that it was a pet adoption day (we didn’t frequent pet shops, so little did I know to steer clear on Saturdays unless you are ready to have a zoo at home) and Max was still a puppy, under a bit of
sedation from surgery and asleep in the corner of the cage. I thought it was bad then with me wanting all of the little puppies and kittens! Now I have 2 boys and we definitely need to stay away on pet adoption
Saturdays :)

Credits: Heritage and Traditions by Jen U, Worn Overlays by Manuela Zimmerman, Splendid by Rosey Posey, Artistitches and Adventouriste Journaler from Ztampf, Dog 3 Word art from Elegant Word Art by Bethany, Happy Tails by Irene Alexeeva and Impressions of Mother Earth by the Studio Girls

At the Playground

2010-04-30T21:23:00.001-05:00

Word art: Photograpy is a picture painted by the sun without instruction in art.

Credits: Fraicheur Boisee by Soval, Background template by Scrapping With Liz, Spring frame from SussieM's Here Comes the Spring, Photography 2 Word Art Pack from Elegant Word Art By Bethany and Fragments 101 and 110 by Studio Rosey Posey.

In Alex's Room

2010-04-29T13:47:00.000-05:00

Journaling: Alex, you tend to feel like you are coming out on the short end of things when it comes to spending time with Chuy or having him sleep in your room. True, Ian does seem to spend a bit more time with him, but when it comes to attention from little boys, Chuy is definitely an Equal Opportunity Animal. He loves to sleep with you because you two seem to be on the same crazy schedule - up at 5:30 AM asleep at 8 pm, and when you go to your room to sleep, you do just that - sleep. Even though Chuy loves to play, he is still a puppy and needs his sleep - lots of it!

Credits: Love My Man by Studio Gypsy, Toby and Cracker by Kristin Aagard and Faith True, Adventouriste Ensembles and Journaler by Ztampf and font is Pea Bandit.

Just a Little Guy

2010-04-27T20:05:00.000-05:00

Journaling: when JJ comes over, Ian usually plays with him - they are closer in age, so they seem to have more in common. This time, Ian was in a very territorial mood and whenever JJ would pick up a toy, which is usually no problem, Ian would respond with “No, that’s mine!” Now we throw Alexander into the mix. He thought Ian’s mood was absolutely unacceptable and took it upon himself to protect and play with JJ, saying “He’s just a little guy”. Here we see them laying on the chair watching TV together.

Credits: FQB Toy Store, Toy Store Solids and Toytalk Alpha by Studio Nitwit, Storyteller Template 2b by SuzyQScraps, Ode to Joy by MGL, Crazy Stitches 1 by Flergs and Shapes4 Tabs by Wendyzine

Fiesta Ian

2010-04-26T16:59:00.001-05:00

Journaling: what a difference a year makes - for the last two years you were attending Allex’s fiesta parties at his school because yourss didn’t have them. This year, you are in kindergarten and had a fiesta party of your own. Complete with an outfit that you decorated in class and proudly wore to your own little fiesta parade in the hallway. You also got to make an individual pinata and a noisemaker
for the parade -
Goodie Bags,
Games,
Cookies
Chips -
VIVA FIESTA!

Credits: Party Central by Flergs and Eva Kipler, Rainbows End by Lauren Bavin, Crazy Stitches 2 by Flergs and Adventouriste Journaler by Ztampf!

Thru the Window

2010-04-24T17:01:00.000-05:00

Journaling: Just before Alex turned 2, he had to move out of the nursery to make room for his little brother. Since he was switching rooms, we felt that a new bed was in order, and a bunk bed seemed to be the right thing. The bunk bed was a little large and imposing for a 2 year old, so we made a game of getting into bed, calling crawling through the rails “going through the window.” Fast forward a few years. Ian isn’t a baby anymore and the boys are now 7 and 5. Both boys are almost the same size and they love climbing all over the bunk bed like it was a jungle gym, but they always climb “thru the window” at bedtime!

Credits: Spring's Promise and Ode to Joy by MGL, the Fix freebie by Crystal Livesay, Crazy Stitches by Natali Design, Scalloped Mats by Irene Alexeeva, For Mellisa and Recycled Frames by Flergs and Art 101 by Lindsay Jane.

To Infinity and Beyond

2010-04-24T14:46:00.001-05:00

Journaling: When Ian was learning to talk, Alexander was watching alot of Toy Story - so - Ian used the phrase “to infinity and beyond” whenever he felt strongly about something. Just a few examples - emotions, anything he wanted RIGHT NOW!, a cool place to go, everything was accented with “to infinity and beyond.” Now that Ian has learned to express himself without TV catch phrases, the Buzz Lightyear saying is all but gone from his vocabulary, except for one instance. He still uses it to explain how much he loves his brother.

Credits: Denim Blues and CU Grabbag 1 by Flergs, Twill Phrases by Maya and SO Useful fadeouts by Sine

Eye to eye

2010-04-23T14:43:00.000-05:00

Journaling: Ian was so excited to find a frog - the first one he had seen outside the pet store or zoo, and I was just thrilled to hear the frogs singing - a sound that so reminds me of when I was a little girl, at home with my parents. I hope they stay around for a while so that sound can become part of the fabric of the boys childhood.

Credits: Squigglygig by Birgit Kerr, Freshness Papers by Natali Design, Crazy Stitches 2 by Flergs, Splatter Greffiti by Tangi Baxter, The Essential - Fasteners by Miss Vivi and frame from Grungy Pup by Nicole Young

Angel Eyes

2010-04-22T21:11:00.000-05:00

Journaling: Pretty little Angel eyes / Jorgia is such a sweet little girl and each time I take her picture, or
she comes over to play with the boys, I am surprised by those beautiful eyes

Oma

2010-04-20T09:27:00.001-05:00

Journaling: January thru December with Oma / I know that I have said this several times before, but we are all so lucky to live in the same city. My kids see their Oma every weekend, from January to December, and more often on holidays. The boys won’t understand until they are older, but having a close relationship with grandparents has enriched their lives in ways I can’t even begin to explain. / Oma has different foods at her house, so Ian can usually be found stuffing his face and she also has On Demand TV along with Solitare and Bejewelled on the computer, so that is where you’ll find Alex. / Things are just a bit different at Oma’s, and my kids, who usually throw a fit over ANY deviation from the norm at home, take it all in stride because it is Oma’s house. / I love it!

Credits: Template by Jen Caputo, Papers from MGL's Hidden Within, Add'l papers by Veronica, Page Pretties from Studio Gypsy, Elements from Veronica, Flerg's Pretty Scatters, Garden Party Dates by One Little Bird and Flerg's Simple Clusters.

Bathtime

2010-04-19T20:41:00.001-05:00

Journaling: Not only is this kid extremely fashion conscious, but he has recently become a clean-freak, too. I mean, he has always liked to wash his hands, using the various Bath & Body scented soaps available, but now his love of cleanliness has extended to bathtime - each day he comes home from school saying

“I’m dirty, I need to have a bath”

A very strange habit for a five year old, but I have to say, I like it!

Credits: Background Template by Scrapping with Liz, Rough to the Touch and Little Fishi Island by Lori Davison, Treasures of the Deep from MGL & Irene Alexeeva, Casual Attraction by Flergs and MGL, Sea Side by Natali Design, Round Bubbles from Rosey Posey, Adventouriste Journaler by Ztampf!, Staple Stash by Maya, Laundry WordArt from Elegant WordArt by Bethany and Font is High Tide.

Zoo Trip

2010-04-17T22:29:00.001-05:00

Journaling: GOING TO THE ZOO for your kindergarten field trip was one of the highlights of the year. Even though we have had season passes and been to the zoo more times than anyone can count, this time was special. The rest of the class was there, Mom and Dad (along with lots of other parents) were chaperones, So that, along with beautiful weather combined to make it a trip you won't soon forget:)

Credits: Jungle Salvage by Tangie Baxter, Dreams in Color 2.0 - Neutral by Studio mgl, Day at the Zoo by Phuong Ton, Zoo WordArt Pack from Elegant WordArt by Bethany, Splatter Graffiti - Jungle Salvage by Tangie Baxter and Background template from Scrapping With Liz.

Alone Time

2010-04-15T18:49:00.001-05:00

Journaling: Alex, you never have been one to enjoy the company of lots of people - even more so now as you get older. Sometimes it worries me, but if solitude is what you like, who am I to interfere. These pictures were taken at the park. While the rest of the kids were playing together, you were climbing on top of the playscape so no one could bother you. I hope this is you enjoying life.

Credits: NeeNee's Tempatez 6, To Do by Miss Vivi, Psycho Magnet, Carver, For Melissa and Distressed Edges by Flergs, Everyday Joy WordArt pack from Elegant WordArt By Bethany, Manu's Mixed Stitches and JenU's Postage Date

Fossil Hunt

2010-04-15T10:01:00.000-05:00

Journaling: There is nothing that my husband and the boys like better than a fossil hunt. Find a dry creek bed and start searching. Their idea of high entertainment. They haven’t totally converted me yet, but I must admit, I do enjoy the hikes and chances to take some wonderful nature pics!

Credits: Templlate from Aly's Jumpers by Crystal Livesay, Background paper from Cardboard Couture Down and Dirty by Gypsy, mat from Irene Alexeeva's Scalloped Mats, Squigglygig by Brigit Kerr, Tinkertoy and Found Treasures by Flergs, Playtime Word Art from Elegant Wordart by Bethany, The Essential - Ribbons and The Essential - Some Green by Miss Vivi, fonts are Atland Sketches and Pea Steve.

A Happy Easter

2010-04-08T22:37:00.000-05:00

Journaling: once the candy was divided semi-evenly, we sat down to watch Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakuel.. Ian wanted to see it, Alex wanted to play Gameboy and the adults just wanted the kid to be happy and quiet. So, we started the movie and the Chipmunks sang a few songs that had a good beat. Dance time for Alex! Gameboy forgotten, he proceeded to show us all of his moves (dancing, not fighting) and we all had a Happy Easter :)

Credits: Primitive Easter, Fancy Neutal Melody Papers and Newsprint Alpha by Jen U, Mixed Stitches and Tattered Meshes by Manu, Tinkertoy by Flergs, Simply Shabby Neutral Papers and Noteable Paper Pack by Tracy Sims and Jumper #52 by Crystal Livesay
Fonts used are Susie's Hand and Myriad.

Finally Here

2010-04-07T15:39:00.000-05:00

Our youngest son, Ian, had been bugging us all night and all of that morning until we got to Oma's house for the Easter Egg hunt. He wanted to make sure that Oma had put in a "change of address" with the Easter Bunny so he would know which house to hide the eggs at. Then Ian wanted to find them RIGHT NOW! Finally at my mom'sw house, Sam and I felt like we could relax a bit and smile :)

Credits: Easter QP by Jen U and tag from Primitive Easter kit also by Jen U. Font used was CK Journaling.

Really Mom

2010-04-04T20:23:00.000-05:00

Journaling: Here we have Alex with his new “Really, Mom” look. He has spent a while cultivating just the right sarcastic stare and especially reserved it for me. You know, those times when I interrupt Alex when he is doing something totally outside of the adult world and would like to keep it that way - NAA (No adults allowed)

Credits: Creator and Creator Alpha by One Little Bird Designs, Creator templates by Crystal Livesay and the font used is Century Gothic