[I got tagged...]

1. If you could build a house anywhere, where would it be?

The Bahamas

2. What's your favorite article of clothing?

I guess if I have to answer, I'd say my black capris. I don't like my clothes...boring...t-shirts and shorts.

3. Favorite physical feature of the opposite sex?

Eyes, that's what attracted me to David in the first place! :)

4. What's the last CD that you bought?

Oh man, it was a CD for David. I can't remember the name!

5. Where's your favorite place to be? Disney ;)

6. Where is your least favorite place to be? In the dentist chair getting a filling or something worse.

7. What's your favorite place to be massaged? I don't really like to be massaged!

8. Strong in mind or strong in body? Neither? LOL!

9. What time do you wake up in the morning? Whenever Paxtin wakes up. Somedays it's 5:45 and some days it's 7 am.

10. What is your favorite kitchen appliance? Since I just got it, I'd say my George Foreman Grill.

11. What makes you really angry? My boys when I've asked them for the 10,000 time to do something.

12. If you could play any instrument, what would it be? I want to play the bass...oh or a cello. ;)

13. Favorite color? It's a tie, Sage and Red

14. Which do you prefer...sports car or SUV? SUV

15. Do you believe in an afterlife? Yes

16. Favorite children's book? Right now it's "Put Me in the Zoo" (I think that's what it is called!)

17. What is your favorite season? Fall (well, I actually like the changing of all the seasons!)

18. What is your least favorite household chore? Mopping!

19. If you could have one super power, what would it be? Now I feel like I'm answering my boys' quesitons! Right now, the ability to become thin at the snap of my fingers!

20. If you have a tattoo, what is it? None

21. Can you juggle? Nope, but I'd like to learn!

22. The one person from your past that you wish you could go back and talk to? My Gramma

23. What's your favorite day? Christmas Day

24. What's in the trunk of your car? I don't have a trunk...in the back of my Suburban I have a double stroller, a little car kit my dh put together (windex, etc.), a first aid kit and a blanket.

25. Which do you prefer, sushi or hamburger? I'll take dead cow over raw fish any day! DITTO Julie! ;)

Okay, it's my turn. The last time I tagged someone, they didn't do it. Just so you know, it doesn't hurt my feelings! So, I tag:

Carrie (EthansMom)
Amy Tanabe
Carrie Stephens

[I scrapped tonight!]

Frick & Frack are debuting their first kit at Digital Freebies tomorrow...actually, it's today so I think it's okay to spill the beans here. This is the layout I did with their kit "Naturals - Queen Anne's Lace:

for full credits, see here: http://digitalfreebies.com/gallery/showphoto.php/photo/13547/cat/500/ppuser/337.

I actually started this one at my crop this weekend. I didn't get too far...so, here is the finished layout. This is retrodiva's "Passion" kit from Digital Freebies.

full credits here: http://digitalfreebies.com/gallery/showphoto.php/photo/13522/cat/500/ppuser/337.

And then I did this tonight. I love how this one turned out. As soon as I saw the inspirational piece, I knew what I wanted to do. Here is the inspiration:

So, this is the layout I did:

Isn't Paxtin cute! I can't believe he was really that small...he's growing up way to fast!

The full credits are here: http://www.jenwilsondesigns.com/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=436&cat=500&ppuser=22.

This is the layout I did at the crop this past weekend. I figure I spent like 13 hours on it. I had a hard time getting started, plus I talked a lot in the beginning. LOL! This is for Jen Wilson's Meaningful contest. I don't expect to win anything, I just want another excuse to use Jen's stuff! I'm loving her new site. It's forcing me to use her stuff. Usually my focus is on CT kits. So, here it is:

okay, settle for a link, it's not letting upload it.

http://www.jenwilsondesigns.com/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=377&cat=500&ppuser=22

Carrie (Ethansmom) and Kellie...oh and Amanda (Ritter), I owe you emails!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[I won something!!!]

I'm still in shock! Last night was Jen Wilson's launch of her Meaningful contest. www.jenwilsondesigns.com She was so sweet to give us an add-on pack for her latest kit (the one we'll be using for the contest). We got the details of the contest and then she throws this at us...she challenged us to create a blinkie using her site initials JWD and to post it in an hour. So, I went to work right away. The first thing that came to my head was Just Digi. I think went to town with W words and nothing sounded right...until I decided I could put the word for the W upside down! I added "meaningful". Perfect. :) I made it with seconds to spare and here it is:

I think Blogger is distorting it a little when I upload it. But, you get the picture. :) Anyway, I was one of 3 winners. What did we win? The rest of the "Meaningful" series! YIPPPEEEE!

I've got a busy day today. I need to go get my Mom's birthday present, finish the laundry I started, fix a brocolli/cauliflower salad for my crop tonight, take a shower, feed the kids (check - just did that), get my meds refilled, pack for my crop (which takes about 2 seconds heee heee heeee) oh and get some food for our little cookout for Mom's birthday. I think that's about it. Doesn't sound like a lot but I need to do it all NOW. I'm cropping tonight and all day tomorrow! I think the grocery store will have to wait until tomorrow or after I get done cropping tonight (thank God for our Super Walmart). So, look forward to some new pages. I am...I've been so slow latey.

[New LO]

I did this for a challenge at Jen Wilson's new site. I love the way it turned out! Simple, 'off' just a little and a little big of "Ali" (http://aliedwards.typepad.com/) thrown in! That's what I thought when I added the circle. Have you ever noticed that she almost always has at least ONE circle in each of her layouts? Love it! Oh and I added the star. I forgot to add that on the credits.

You can see the credits here: http://www.jenwilsondesigns.com/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=196&cat=500&ppuser=22



[Weigh In]

First let me say that AF decided to visit after 2 years of being on "the shot" so holy cow...I forgot what it feels like to have it! Thank GOD I haven't been eating like crazy. I have wanted chocolate though! But, the sugar free pudding is cutting that out (and OMG have you had the carmel s-f pudding? SOOO GOOOOOD)!

Second, I have to tell you we bought a digital scale. So, now NO guessing what I weigh. LOL! I didn't do any adjusting to my weight so, I 'only' lost .4 lbs this week. David is going to weigh tonight and see if it's 'off for him'. Seriously, I can't tell because you can see the 'tick' marks on the old scale!

[The countdown is ON...]

Two more days until Anakin starts school!

[Inspiration]

Two things:

1. Visit Jen Wilson's new site...amazing! www.jenwilsondesigns.com.

2. Visit this blog http://soundsofscience.blogspot.com/2006/08/why.html. Holy cow...I'm lovin' her style. She's a paper scrapper...I'll forgive her for that. LOL! Makes me wonder how my paper scrapping would have evolved had I seen her work before I found digi. I didn't like this style before I found digi! I've grown for sure. :)

[Sad]

Not sure how much I am suppose to say...so, I'll just say that I'm sad. I won't be on Amy Tanabe's kit crew any longer. :(

I'm sad that Kim Christensen is leaving SBB and going to ScrapArtist. I should explain that I'm not sad that she's going there, I think it's awesome for her! I love her designs...in fact, with the release of her RAD CD, I think she's my favorite boy designer right now. I emailed her a few days ago asking if I was "fired" from her Creative Team. I haven't heard from her. I know she's super busy, but it would be nice to know since ScrapArtist has their own team...I'm probably not really needed now. So, I'm bummed.

I'm also a little sad that I haven't heard back from Jen Wilson. I can forgive my favorite designers though...I know they are so busy. The little work I've done for retrodiva/Digital Freebies, I know it takes a ton of work to run a website! Answering emails and problems is probably one of the heftiest of chores. Anyway, I really would like to participate in Jen's contest starting on the 19th. I emailed her to see if I would be able to. You see, I do have a "guest spot" with Jen. That was like in what? April? I honestly don't remember anymore! I'm sad that nothing has happened with it because she rocks and I love all her stuff...I have almost all of it...and I want all of the future stuff. Honestly, my favorite layouts have been my layouts I have done for contests and it's with her stuff! I'm rambling... I just want to know.

A. Will it ever be? (the guest spot, that is)
B. If not, can I participate in the contest?

That's it. Okay, I'm done whining. ;) So, here's some good news!

[TOOT!!! I won, I won!]

Last Saturday the gals (and Mr It, I think they call him) had a bash at Designer Digitals. All day chats/challenges. I was there for most of it...at least I tried to be. I popped in and out all day. I particpated in 2 of the challenges. I think the deal was that the designers/CT members that hosted that hours' chat would pick one winner from the galleries for each hour. (Correct me if I'm wrong...anyone!) Now, first I want to say that there were a lot of people at the chats...and only a few that actually did the challenges. I was really kind of surprised since they gave us a ton of freebies. I was kind of compairing it to ScrapArtist's birthday celebration too. They had so much more activity in the galleries. Was it timing? In my lovely little head I think that ScrapArist and DesignerDigitals are two of the best sites! Those two site can ask me anytime to design for them and I'd drop everything (well, almost everything) to do be on their CTs! Of course, I compair myself to C.D....one of my most favorite scrappers and then I think...whatever! I don't deserve it! She RAWKS! Check out her blog here: http://cdmuckosky.blogspot.com/ I do have to add (because I think it's cool) that she has the cutest daughters and they all have cool, unique names AND they are 7, 4 and 2. My boys are almost 7, 4 and 2. Too funny!

Wow, I'm long winded tonight. Can you tell I don't want to scrap? I'm just scrapped out today.

So, I did this layout: okay, blogger isn't letting my post my pics! So, here's the link to the winning layout:

http://www.designerdigitals.com/ddgallery/showphoto.php?photo=9543&cat=500&ppuser=178

We were suppose to use the free little mini kit that Jackie gave us. I had just happened to have bought the whole kit the night before. :) So, the dotted paper is from the full kit. The rest was from the chat. Apparently, they liked it. I won this kit of Jackie's (which I hadn't bought yet, surprisingly enough!)

http://www.designerdigitals.com/ecom/product_info.php?products_id=1245


[SBB Elements CT Entries]

I finally decided that I was going to enter the "contest" to see if I can get on Scrapbook-bytes Elements Creative Team. With the changes in my CTs, I decided to go for it. I had to ask some questions about this because I had no idea that SBB had a seperate Elements team where a handful (or a few more) of designers make kits...and they have a Creative Team. (Thanks for the help Carrie!)

You can get the info here about the call: http://scrapbook-bytes.com/chat/showthread.php?t=23497

Here are my entries:

http://www.scrapbook-bytes.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=185494&cat=500&ppuser=30139

http://www.scrapbook-bytes.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=185492&cat=11902

http://www.scrapbook-bytes.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=185487&cat=11902

Okay, I'm tired! I'm signing off...night! :)

[8 lbs in 2 WEEKS!]

Pretend this is Monday...I'm a little behind in posting. LOL! I lost another FIVE pounds!!! Bringing my total up to 8 lbs in 2 weeks! I'm so extremely happy. I have a weight blog. If you're interested in following my weight loss journey, please let me know (make sure you give me your email address) and I'll send you a link. It has more info on what I'm doing/eating and weighing.

Sorry this is short, I can't think right now...I'm tired! Later! :)

[I'm a LOSER!!!!!]

After a rough week for starting my weight loss/life change...yes, I cheated a few times and didn't get my water in like I should...and no exercise! I still lost 3lbs! YIPPPEEEE! I guess giving up Coke did it. LOL! I also discovered Sprite Free. Tastes so much like Sprite and doesn't have that nasty after taste that a lot of the diet stuff has.


[My Butt]

It's sad to say that my butt layout has gotten more views that a lot of my really good layouts of the boys at DST! Here it is:

Credits: Kim Christensen's RAD CD "White Wash" kit; font is CK True Type.

Don't ask me why I started with #25. It's my favorite number...and it was the first thing to come to my head, naturally. So, I've got to find 24 more reasons. I'm sure it won't be hard!

[Tired]

Today was just a strange day! We had a storm come through this morning and knocked our power out for 4 hours. That meant no morning cartoons for the boys...it just threw our schedule (or lack thereof) off even more! So, I set up their favorite hideout behind the love seat with the curtains pulled over the top. I gave Tristin a flashlight and Paxtin had a little play lantern. I should have taken pics. LOL! They played and were semi amused by it being my idea to make the hideout! The lights came back on...along with the TV and the air...LOL...around 11 am, right after I put Paxtin down for an early nap. He was so tired. Tristin got to watch Scooby Doo and I got to organize some digi files. 2 hours later...yes, we watched Scooby and I was on my computer for 2 hours YIKES! Paxtin woke up and we ate a late lunch...got ready to go out...picked Anakin up from his last day of 'day camp' and we went shopping. We went to Kohls and got David 3 pairs of work pants and 2 books. We also went into the mall and picked up Anakin's free cookies from his library book club. As we were walking out, I peeked into a little shop called the "Mole Hole". Now, I don't shop there. They've got a little bit of everything, frames, candles, knicky nacky things that I just don't have the money or space for! But, I saw CROCS...not the ugly ones (sorry, if you have them and think they are cute, I have huge feet and if you put those on my feet...they'd look like Flintstone feet!) but these:

http://shop.crocs.com/pc-14-4-athens.aspx?reqid=14&reqProdTypeId=41p&subsectionname=footwear&section=products

Sorry, I can't figure out how to get the pic off of there! So, there's the link. I'm soooo excited! I got my first pair of Crocs! :)

We came home seconds before David got home and we chilled for a few minutes before I made supper. We actually had breakfast - scrambled eggs, bacon/sausage and toast. Yum. I went easy on the b/s. ;)

Okay, I'm off to bed...later!

[Cirque du Soleil]

WOW!!!!!! David and I just got home from a little trip to Chicago. Actually, David surprised me with this. He planned it through the activities department (from work) so we didn't have to drive and got discounted tickets to boot. I never thought I'd get to see Cirque du Soleil in real life...and I'm feeling a little euphoric right now!

It is now my mission to see the water show in Vegas. I've never wanted to go to Vegas...don't care for gambling and the lifestyle that is Vegas...but, I want to see the show! :)

The boys stayed with my friend Jenny... THANK YOU, Jenny!!!

I don't even know what to say...I'm just happy. You can check out their website here: www.cirquedusoleil.com. If you have the chance to see any of the shows, it is worth every cent you'll pay and more!

[I'm a dork!]

I think Shannon should have named the site with SCRAP instead of SHOP because I can never remember that it's SHOP! LOL! It's www.digishoptalk.com...lol!!!!!

[Popularity]

I love Digiscraptalk.com....that's my main gallery now. Let's just get that point across first and foremost. I'm really starting to wonder if I stink or if my layouts just plain stink (I don't think they do). Hardly no one even looks at my layouts. Yes, I am starting to feel a little sorry for myself! I am proud of the things I do and want others to see them and yes, I want praise. I guess I really need to stop posting my layouts at 1-2am!

[Monster House]

I took Anakin to see Monster House tonight. I was totally unprepared for the fact that the movie had a lot to do with an obese woman. I wasn't prepared for Anakin to associate me with the obese woman. He talks a LOT and wanted to talk about the movie afterwards. I won't get into the details, but he basically said, "Oh, like you?" And, I had to answer and say "Yes". I think this is the first time he's really said anything about me being overweight. Giving up Coke one day and the next having to face the facts with my 6 year old. UGH! I want a COKE!!! I think I'll go get a Coke Zero.

[Funny!!!!!!]

Paxtin is 18 months old. He's so in tune with what is going on around him. He's smart. ;) The boys were watching a Scooby Doo Movie (Monsters Unleashed) and Scooby farts. Paxtin laughs and says, "POOPIES"!!! I about fell over! This child could be potty trained! He tells us before he poops, he tells us when he pees (but he calls them both poopies). Oh, he's so cute!

Okay, that's it...I'm going to try to scrap tonight. I don't feel very motivated though. Maybe it's because Jen Wilson's contest is on my mind. I'm not sure if I can particpate...and that would suck because I haven't done anything for her "guest spot". I'll be emailing her, of course.

Later!

[Yesterday]

Well, I survived. I had a massive headache in the afternoon which, I think, was a combination headache from swimming for 2 hours in the heat...having my hair too tight on my head AND no caffeine! I didn't eat enough for breakfast and lunch and ended up eating pretzels and some cake (it's gone thank God) again. But, you know what, David and I decided to give each other at least 3 days to get off the caffeine and then we'll worry about not cheating. LOL!

[Saturday's Surprise]

David planned a day for just us! I'm excited and a little nervous. For once, I have no clue what we'll be doing. All I know is that it's a bus trip with David's work. They plan trips and offer them to the employees. I've been on one before...a trip to Chicago to shop. It was fun. So, I'm looking forward to going, not really looking forward to the bus! LOL!

[Laundry & The rest of my day!]

Wednesday is laundry day for me...every day should be...so, I'm off to do laundry. I'm going to try to stay off the computer today (only on when the boys nap). I need to spend some time with them too! :)

Have a great day! :)

[ScrapArtist's 1st Birthday!]

My weekend consisted of a lot of things, we went swimming at David's 'work park', swam here at home in our little pool, put some of our new furniture in our living room (wow, what a change!) and ScrapArtist turned 1. LOL! SA is one of my favorite digi stores, but not just the store...the people there are soooo nice. (Hee Heeee! Hi, Kellie!) I had a blast this weekend doing some of their challenges. Oh, and I gave myself a little challenge of using mostly ScrapArtist products. I buy kits and don't get to use them as soon as I'd like because I need to use team products first. So, this time, SA came first. :)

Check out this thread for more info on the challenges: http://www.scrapartist.com/scrapforums/forumdisplay.php?f=52

So, I scrapped most of Saturday away...it was 106 degrees outside with the heat index figured in. YOU COULDN'T BREATH. I stayed in the air. LOL! Here are the challenges I've completed so far! The first one is my very favorite!!! Love the colors!!!

This was the "Poolside Reading" challenge. Scrap your 5 favorite things of summer -
with an emphasis on the journaling. You can see the credits here:
http://www.scrapartist.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=18175&cat=500&ppuser=892

This one was for the "Freestyle" challenge. This layout seriously only took me maybe 20 minutes. The only reason it took that long was because I wanted to put a little bit of thought into the journaling. Once I figured out what was going to do...I just did it and didn't go back and change any of it. That's so not normal for me! LOL! I figured...that is as free as I can be. You can see it closer here along with the credits:
http://www.scrapartist.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=18191&cat=500&ppuser=892

This was for the Synchronized Swimming challenge. You had to take 1 of 2 sketches and create a layout. I used the 8.5 x 11 sketch for my 12x12 page. Here are the credits: http://www.scrapartist.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=18201&cat=500&ppuser=892

I have one more finished, just not sure I like it...it's so plain. I've got ideas for the other 2 challenges too. I guess I'll try to get them done tonight.

[Eating and Drinking...]

Today is my last day of eating/drinking freedom. I guess I shouldn't say it that way. LOL! So far today I've had pizza for lunch, a coke and a few pretzels with whipped cream cheese. So not good for me! Tonight we're getting Olive Garden (or Outback, if David has his way). Tomorrow...it's withdrawl symptoms from no Coke. LOL! I'm ready though.

Okay, I'm going to go rest for a few minutes before Tristin and Paxtin get up from their nap. We've got to go pick up Anakin from camp in an hour anyway. :) Later!

[Spud Club & Toot!!!!]

I haven't got to toot for a while and this one I've been waiting to let loose so, here it is!!! Look closely (or go to http://www.polkadotpotato.com/spudclub/kimandpetrasummerfun0806.htm to see it closer)! Anakin, Tristin, Paxtin, Paige (neighbor) and Hannah (my friend Ann's girl) are proudly displayed on MY samples for the new "Spud Club" at www.polkadotpotato.com. :)

I was honored to be asked to make the samples, it was so fun and totally easy to do. This was my first 'altered' project since I've gone "digi". Basically, you can use the templates that come with the project (insert your pictures, print and then add embellishments you want) or create your own. The one in the far background of Anakin is one of Kim Crother's templates, Hannah is in the cup. The others of Paige and Paxtin, I made. There is another template laying on the table and that's my 3 boys. You can see it here: http://www.polkadotpotato.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=33&products_id=240. So, check out the site and the club and go become a charter member!!! You can also try to win a year free membership here: http://www.polkadotpotato.com/bb/viewtopic.php?t=34&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0.

[Not much else]

is going on right now...it's almost 1:30 am and I'm still up! I took a nap this afternoon with the boys. Opps! We met some friends at a pizza place today and I ate PIZZA. Just one other food that I wanted to eat and not think about before the big day. LOL! I'm not saying I am cutting all pizza out of my life. I wouldn't survive. My boys wouldn't survive. LOL! I just can't eat as much. Okay, I'm rambling...night!!!

[Look at what I got tonight!]

Amy Tanabe's new paper pack at ACOT. It's gorgeous...and 12 papers for $3!
Click here to be taken to the store!
http://www.acherryontop.com/digital/new/9000841/?l=1&sr=0

I don't know if I have a picture (or two) worthy of it...but, I'm going to search high and low for one! I may even do a little scanning of my baby book. I don't know why, but the first thing I thought of was a baby picture of me. LOL!

[Do boys ever have babies?]

Anakin, Paxtin and I were in the truck this morning going to pick Tristin up from summer pre-school. Anakin asks a TON of questions and this is the one he asked me today. "Do boys ever have babies?" I said, "No, they don't have the right stuff to have them." Was that vague enough? He then says..."Oh good, I'm glad. I don't ever want to have a baby." LOL! He then asked me where babies come out...and I just didn't feel like answering him. I was trying to drive for goodness sake! I have told him before and I'm very truthful...it comes out of Mommy's Pee Pee. Oh, that's bad isn't it. Someday...he'll find out it's not exactly from there...for now, it's ok.

[Library News - Some stuff I missed before & an update!]

Anakin started the library reading program 6 weeks into the 8 week program. In one week he caught up! He read 30 books PLUS his 2 'bonus' books that had to be chapter books. The chapter books didn't HAVE to be read by him, we could have read them to him...but, he read them all! Can I tell you how proud we were of him!?!?!?! He's only SIX! So, we took him and let him pick out a few "Magic Treehouse" books...that's his favorite chapter books. We came home from the library after getting his 6 weeks and 2 bonus books stamped and he sat down and finished like 6 more books. Crazy kid! He had the rest finished the next day. 10 more books and he was finished with the program. LOL! So, fast forward 2 weeks and here we are to today. He got to go to the library tonight for the ending party. They had root beer floats and watched some Bugs Bunny cartoons. He was so proud of himself. Oh and he got his last few 'book bucks' (they get 10 book bucks for every 5 books they read and then get to 'spend' them at their little store) and he got to pick out a new FREE book. He was soooooo excited to see they had the Magic Treehouse books! Thanks for letting me brag a little. It's just amazing to me (he is my firstborn afterall). He starts 1st Grade in a few short weeks...and we both are READY!!!

[Surprise on 8-5!]

David has something up his sleeve. All I know is the boys will be at a sitters...and we'll be back late. Hmmm...what could it be?

[Shopping]

So, I like to read Gina's blog (http://www.ginamiller.typepad.com/) to see what she buys at Target. That girl can spend $$$! LOL! So, I thought I'd tell you what I bought today. Not as exciting as Gina, I'm sure. First, we didn't go to Target (which I love) we went to Walmart. They had the college supplies out so I went looking for some cushions/pillows we could use in our 'new' living room.

Oh, wait, I didn't get to write about that either! We bought new furniture for our living room!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Can I tell you how excited I am? We have had hand-me-downs from my parents for the past 8 years. The couch is ripping, one of the recliners died...and our couch and chairs in the basement are even worse! The couch down there has to be over 100 years old...seriously...and it's been recovered multiple times. So, it was time. We got a new couch, love seat, chair, ottoman, coffee table, end tables and a couch table (I think that's what it's called). Basically, we're replacing everything but the entertainment center, which I'd love to get rid of...but, not now. I'll take pictures as soon as we get it in the living room.

So, I went looking for cushions/pillows to put on the floor for the boys (or us). Basically, we want to put the boys on the floor. LOL! I wanted beanbags, but they were HUGE and we don't have room for them. I hate the little ones... So, I found them at Walmart! 4...about $16 each. I was so excited. I got tan thinking they'd match our brown couch...nope...looks horrible! LOL! I'm going to go get the darker brown tomorrow.

What else did I buy?

A smushy ball for Paxtin - 88 cents!
Milk & Eggs
Coke (this is the last week)
Bacon and Sausage (Anakin wants to eat breakfast for supper this week!), My favorite BBQ chips (again, this is the last week)
Scalloped potatoes (lmbo...it just sounded good, I was thinking what can I buy that I like and haven't had and won't be having in a long time)
Mac N Cheese and Spagetthi O's (those are only for the kids...oh, okay, I'll eat a little Mac N Cheese)
Bread
A new makeup case for me
and
Chewy Lifesavers for Anakin and Bear cookies for Paxtin (he was HUNGRY).

What was the damage? $106 dollars for some junk and some pillows. UGH!

On that note...night!!!

UGH!!!!!!!! Blogger just ate a long post with pictures. I'm going to cry!!! Here's the short version!

[I love Mater!]

Long story short. This is at David's work...they sponsored "Cars" and they came to corporate headquarters for us to see. Thank God because the next day they had the cars at a public location and thousands upon thousands came through. As you can see here, we had it good!

[Runner up?]

They say I came in first, but really I really came in 2nd, so wouldn't I be called "runner up"? At any rate, here are the contest results: http://www.peppermintcreative.com/DNTS/top5.html You can click on our names to see our layouts we did for the contest. Personally, I know that I did the best I could do and creativity, I rocked the house. The contest pushed me once again. I'm glad I participated. Now, I need to concentrate on my design/creative teams and rock them. ;)

Okay...must...go....to....bed!!! Night!

Here are the pictures!

My strong man winning a prize for Tristin. :) I didn't realize that they change the degree of 'hardness' on these games! LOL! He won what Tristin was wanting non-the-less.

Tristin aka "Mr. Squinty Eyes" with his prize...a blow up Superman "balloon" as he calls it.

This is my most favorite picture. Anakin in the front with Tristin following him,
as always. They were having fun cooling off in the water.

This was the only character the boys wanted to pose with! LOL!
One of their favorite cartoons right now. Scooby-Doo!

David and the boys

Me and the boys

Anakin...love this picture!!!

Paxtin eating "dippin' dots" for the first time. These things are cool.
Little tiny balls of ice cream. He pretty much ate the whole dish!
He was soaked by the time he was done and we had to change his shirt. LOL!!!

The sweetest picture. Anakin and Tristin curled up next to each other at the hotel.
One minute they were awake...the next they were out! Peace...of course Paxtin was up another hour after this. He fell asleep at the park because we were there so late. He was also very excited to be free to run around...poor baby hardly walked the whole day!

[Six Flags]

We had a great time at Six Flags! The weather couldn't have been more perfect. After a week of almost 100 degree weather and storms, the mid 80's with a nice breeze was amazing. I actually got chilled in the evening too! (Love it)

Here are a few of my favorite pictures from our trip:

Okay so...Blogger doesn't like me right now. It won't let me add my pics. I'll try again in the morning.

[Humiliation]

I can't believe I'm going to share this here, but I figured if why not..It'ss not a secret that I'm fat and not many people read my blog. LOL! I had the most humiliating experience of my 'fat career' at Six Flags. I knew I wasn't going to be able to ride a lot of the rides due to my weight and I was prepared somewhat for that. Emotionally, I was worn down by the end of the day. I love rides. I love my kids. I love seeing them have fun...and I didn't get to share that with them. Yes, I got to see their faces when they came off the rides and hear what they thought, but I wasn't THERE.

Anyway, David went with Anakin on the Scooby Doo ride and said I could go. So, I took Tristin. For those that don't know, it's a water/boat ride in a dark tunnel type thing and you shoot a laser at these lights and things pop out at you. I thought, no problem, I can fit. Well, the fitting wasn't the problem. We got up to the front of the line and I saw the boats. They were TINY. Tristin got in first (and he wanted in the front). This child weighs 28 lbs soak and wet. Then, I got in. I thought the whole front end of the boat was going to go under. I prayed like crazy and turned my head away from the crowd of people waiting in line. The whole ride all I thought of was...what if it sunk! We get through 1/2 the ride and there's a part in it where you go up a little ramp and then plunge down into the water. (Of course this is where they take your PICTURE.) I almost had a nervous breakdown!!! I thought for sure when we were pointed down the ramp we'd go straight in. So, why am I sharing this? Well, I was embarrassed. I have never been that embarrassed. I was sad for Tristin...because really...even though I kind of enjoyed the ride, I probably was more worried about sinking and having to go get out of that little boat in front of a whole new crowd standing in line. Tristin didn't notice anything. He was so stinking scared of the ride! He didn't even 'shoot' anything. He was safely snuggled under my arm (in my arm pit!) the whole time shaking!

I guess this all comes at a good time. On August 1st a few friends and I are going to start the weight loss journey together. A few are going to do Weight Watchers and I...well, I'm going to "do" Dr. Phil, The Biggest Loser and South Beach Diet all rolled up in one. I need to change my lifestyle. I can't just try to lose a little by eating salad for a few months. I have got to cut out the fat, sugar and processed CRAP that I eat. I did this before I got pregnant with Paxtin. I lost 30 lbs in 3 months (and that's why I got pregnant with him!!!). I can do it. I felt so good at that point! I was still huge, but man, I'm even bigger now. The biggest I've ever been.

Jenny, one of my friends just emailed me and is planning "The Last Supper" for all of us. LOL! Sunday night we're meeting and bringing our favorite foods to share. Yep, I'm bringing my 2 favorite dishes from the Mandarin Garden - Mongolian Chicken and Garlic Chicken. I might even get an order of Crab Rangoon. Until then, I am going to try to wean myself off of regular coke. That's the biggest sugar intake I have. When I did this before, I got to where Dt. Coke tasted like a million dollars. Right now, it tastes NASTY. It's time to break out the Splenda and decaf tea!

Sorry this is so long. It felt good to share it in cyber space.

[New Designer Digitals Goodies]

Okay, when we got home today one of the first things I did was jump on my computer to see what Designer Digitals had coming out today. Oh wow...I'm excited! I love their brushes and Jackie E's stuff is my favorite there. I like it all, but Jackie is more my style of GRUNGE! Here is what is on my wish list: (I can't copy DD's images so here are the links.)

Scratchy Paper Pack
Scratchy Elements
Quirky Stitches, Black
Double Take Boy
Beyond Measure Brush & Stamps
Permanent Record Stamps
Between The Lines Borders

Okay, I'll stop there! I know I've missed a few weeks (of buying) and there are so many things I want to buy. :)

[Inspiration]

Oh, and I got great inspiration from a Mountain Dew ad on a bill board near Six Flags! I can't wait to scrap it. :) I'm off to bed...well, soon. I'll have to answer a few emails first. Night!

[Kim Christensen...she's done it again!]

This CD was released last week, but with my blog 'down', I didn't get to show it off as I would have. So, here it is...the best CD I've ever seen. Seriously. To top it off, it's all BOY (but could be used for a girl too...it's just not flowery and no PINK!) :) Okay, Kim and Meredith Fenwick did a boy CD a few months ago that rocks too! I can't forget that. I need to go back and use that more. It's also at www.scrapbook-bytes.com.

Link to Kim's CD at the store: http://scrapbookbytes.com/store/product.php?productid=19130&cat=0&page=1 There is a downloadable CD, a shipped CD and she's putting the individual kits in right now.

Here are the layouts I've made with the CD so far. (You can click on my gallery links to the right also to get a closer looks...and leave me some love.) I seriously can't wait to use them again. Kim has the BEST elements I've ever seen. They are always varied and different...not the same tags, etc. that we see all the time. I had so much fun doing these:

Tristin, my goggle boy, actually I have 2, Paxtin is one too...I just haven't done the layout yet. LOL!
Credits: Kim's "White Water" kit from her RAD CD. This LO will be in next month's E-zine at Scrapbook-bytes!!!

Credits: Kim's "SK8" kit from her RAD CD. I want to EAT the circle paper. LOL!

Credits: Kim's "Market" kit from her RAD CD.

For some reason, it's not letting me add the last layout here, so here's a link to my gallery:

http://www.digishoptalk.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=2620&cat=500&ppuser=138

[Miss Mint Contest]

I entered another contest at www.peppermintcreative.com. Mainly because I just wanted the challenge. My favorite layouts are the ones that I did in the last contest...so, I figured I just needed the push. I have entered my last layout and now the wait is on to see who wins. You can see all my layouts here: http://www.peppermintcreative.com/gallery/thumbnails.php?album=lastupby&uid=261.

Okay, that's all for now, I've GOT to go pack. We're heading to Six Flags tomorrow (and David just told me it has FREE wireless access!)...lol!!!

[Thank you]

To my official "tech support", my hubby David! :) I worked on my blog for about 2 1/2 hours last night and just couldn't figure out why my posts were not showing up! Well, he figured it out. Thank you, Honey!

[Updates]

I have so many things to share, but don't have the time today! We are cleaning today (David's off), doing laundry and getting ready for a little trip! We're taking the boys to Six Flags tomorrow. So, look for an update on Sunday or Monday (at the latest).

Hugs!