It's been a while...

I know, where have I been? Where does time go? I've actually been putting off a number of things that have needed to happen these last few weeks. As I've been settling down and reorganizing my life, I'm realizing that I don't have enough hours in the day to get everything done. Add a one year old child to that mix that only wants to be around "mom" and you know exactly what I mean. I've also been taking on more tasks to help pass the time and keep my mind preoccupied. Lot's of opportunities have been knocking on my door and I simply can't turn any of them away. Most recently, "Crate Paper" asked me to do some last minute layouts for their booth at CHA. I'm really excited about it, especially after seeing some of the new, upcoming product to be released post CHA (Spring '08). They have a few sneak peaks at their site. I'm going to post a few of them below. These are my faves:

I've been getting an assortment of items in the mail this week. I finally made the decision to go ahead and purchase Photoshop CS3. It's something I've been delaying for quite some time because of the cost. I figure if I purchase it this one time and continue to buy the add-ons as they're released, I won't have to worry about the cost issue anymore. I received it a few days ago and even purchased a few actions to go along with it. So far, it meets all expectations plus some. The engine on Photoshop CS3 is unbelievable. That's what makes it so appealing to me. I started playing around with it when it arrived. Here are a few pics I altered using some of my new actions:

If you want info on the actions, just leave a comment and I'll send you some links. They're a bit tricky to work with cause not one action fits all..you have to tweak'em a bit. I'm still learning, but I think with time, I'll get the hang of it.

I also ordered some new scrapbook product via ScrapGal. Making Memories 5th Avenue Release was irresistible. I didn't get it all, but I purchased bits and pieces. I've left it sitting on my desk cause I don't want to put it away and forget about it (as we all do when we buy new scrapbooking items). Not sure what I'll do with it yet, but it will definitely get used in the next few months.

They started manufacturing these spiral bound mini albums at last CHA. They're releasing a bunch a more. You don't necessarily have to use the entire album as one project. Tear sheets out and use them individually on your layouts. I also like to cut them up into bits and pieces and use them as frames or embellishments. Frame a photo in one of the cut-outs or a label sticker. You could also simply put a sheet of solid color paper behind the page to bring attention to the cut-out. For something more fun, add rhinestones or flowers around the cut-out to bring out it's shape and character. There's a ton of options here. You can also do the same with the larger pieces of die-cut pattern paper from this line. 

I also found this really adorable Autumn Leaves Pattern Paper at ScrapGal. I know it was released some time ago, but I missed it. It was part of their "Manhattan" paper line. I love the owls...

Well, it's SuperBowl time and you know what that means (I'm sure some of you ladies have set aside some time to scrapbook while the game is playing and your hubbies are glued to the tv)..usually it translates into "family gathering" time for us. We're heading over to my folks place to hang with the fam and to fill ourselves with food. Num. I have a horrible weakness for food, but that's another topic. Have a great Sunday everybody!

Comments

[sharron]

I love the new MM lines too. The have really had some great lines in the last 6 months or so. Can't wait to see all of the new stuff released at CHA!

[Wendy McKee]

oh look at all the goodies you have to play with!!!1 me jealous nahhhhhhhhhhhh!!! lol!!!
have fun and i cannot wait to see what you come up with!!!!

[Jody]

That is so awesome about the Crate Paper opportunity! Congrats on that...their papers look sweet! I have fallen in love with 5th Avenue too. So beautiful. I can't wait to get some of it. Or ALL of it! Just to look at. =) And you don't even need to ask me what I think about those adorable owls.
Thinking of you everyday- everyweek. My mom is flying back to MN today. I will miss her so much. What a great friend and help she is to me. I am so glad you have family so near to you. COntinue to take care of you. I will be thinking if you 'extra' this week. I'm sure it will be tough. As they all are.
Love, thoughts and care from me to you. xo

[Anita]

I thought of you today while I was working on a card for three challenges. I was trying to copy your technique of "mini pallets" - I didn't quite get it, but it was fun trying.

You can see my card at: http://www.wowprincess.com/anita/

[Aleida Franklin]

You my dear, are an enabler and my pocket book does not thank you. :)

I do love some Crate Paper, so looking forward to see how you worked it. Have a wonderful weekend C.

[Emily (skrpbkmom)]

Congrats on the Crate Paper gig! Those photos are so great...love how bright they are! :) Glad you got CS3...if you have any questions, just send me an email...I've got it too. Love all that scrapping stuff...makes me want to break out my paper and glue! :)

[Ashleigh]

I just wanted to say one of my co-workers and fello' scrappers told me about your blog and I am so inspired by you...I love your scrapbooking style and am so happy for all the latest chances you are getting with scrapbooking. God Bless. You are a VERY strong woman! Thank you for making me stop and appreciate the little things today.

[Irene]

Wow.. I love your purchases. MM rocks! Love their new series.
If you don't mind, I would like to have some links on the Photoshop editing tips.
Thanks a lot

Irene

[Tiffany]

Yep I am officially loving that MM line. Gotta go grab some. And oh yes, I did get some scrappin done while my hubby watched the game. Poor thing only got to see part of it because we have to be at our college group Sunday nights (he is the leader....he has to be there! LOL) but it was a great Sunday nonetheless. Hope you had a great Sunday as well!

[jill conyers]

Can't wait to see what you do with Crate Paper! I've been waiting not so patiently for MM's 5th Ave and still can' find it irl. I haven't checked online b/c I didn't want to wait for shipping...not so smart :)

Huge fan of PS. I PS7 but would love to try out CS3.

Please send me the action info too! TIA

[Susan Dingess]

Lots of excitement for you! The LO's on the former post are so gorgeous! I am totally into digi now, with thoughts of a couple IRL's I should do. I would love info on the actions!

Thank you.
SusanD

[paige]

you are so talented...i love the photos/actions !!!
have a great time with your family.
xo

[jenn]

the black and white photo of your kitty is beautiful ;)

[mia]

i love to know what you did in Ps to those photo.

/mia

[Linda]

wow I love those sprial notebooks...they are really pretty...Love the other goodies too. Can't wait to see your Crate Paper Los.

[Jen]

When your son is in school... you can get the educational discount! Like when he's 5!
Adobe Lightroom is awesome too... ;-)